"Today is a very important day for both Greece and the European Union, as we welcome Croatia as the 28th member of the European family.
The EU’s Enlargement Policy, even in the period of economic recession we are going through, continues to produce results and to contribute to the consolidation of peace and stability in Europe and, in particular, in the Western Balkan region. A region in our immediate neighborhood, to which we are linked by close political, cultural and economic ties.
The strengthening of democratic institutions and rule of law, compliance – in practice – with good neighborly relations, and the facilitation of economic cooperation are intrinsic elements of the enlargement process, with obvious importance to Greece.
With Croatia’s accession, the EU is reaffirming that the Union remains faithful to its promises when candidate countries thoroughly meet their obligations and the prerequisites."
July 1, 2013