On the eve of Croatia's accession, President Barroso said:

"Croatia's accession to the European Union is a historic event, which returns the country to its rightful place at the heart of Europe. I look forward to Croatia's contribution to the EU, which will be a success story – to the benefit of the Union, of the people of Croatia and of South East Europe as whole."

Croatia's accession shows that the European perspective is real for those countries firmly committed to the EU agenda. It is a clear signal for the region: the EU keeps its commitments if the necessary reforms are delivered and conditions are met.

Background

Croatia's accession has beeing celebrated in Zagreb yestarday and today. The European Commission is represented by President Barroso, Vice-President Reding, Commissioner Füle and Commissioner Mimica. Yesterday,  the EU Delegation in Zagreb closed its doors while today the European Commission Representation opens.

Welcome messages for Croatia from the European Commissioners 

‘Thank you, Europe!’ - Members of the Government of Croatia made a video-recording to thank the EU Commissioners

23:52 LIVE Croatia Accession Celebration in Zagreb - - Inauguration Ceremony (IMPORTANT: Material may only be used within 24 hours and cannot be archived - check the channel for new live and recorded events today, 1 July.)

For more information

Institutional and administrative aspects of Croatia's EU accession: MEMO/13/593

Croatia's EU accession – Q&A: MEMO/13/629

Appointment of the new Head of Representation: IP/13/581

Statistics: STAT/13/100

http://www.croatia-in-the-eu.eu/

http://ec.europa.eu/enlargement/countries/detailed-country-information/croatia/index_en.htm

Audio-visual material:

http://ec.europa.eu/avservices/focus/index.cfm?sitelang=en&focusid=310