President Ivo Josipovic on Friday congratulated all Croatian citizens on Independence Day, which is observed on October 8.

"We proudly remember 8 October 1991, when the Republic of Croatia declared independence. With that decision, our state created a lasting foundation for free development for all its citizens," Josipovic said in a message.

"Soon internationally recognised, Croatia became a responsible participant in international relations, a member of the UN and numerous other international organisations. We celebrated our independence day under the heavy burden of military aggression and partial occupation. Croatian soldiers preserved our freedom and independence in the just and defensive Homeland War. Their heroism and readiness to sacrifice themselves are reasons for our lasting gratitude and respect," Josipovic said.

He recalled that the "20th anniversary of our country's independence is an opportunity to remember all our heroes who invested in our freedom their lives and health, their knowledge and abilities, courage and integrity. Over the last two decades our Croatia, despite numerous difficulties and mistakes, has achieved marked development and progress. NATO membership and the completion of negotiations on European Union membership best testify to that."

"After 20 years of our statehood, new challenges lie ahead. We have built Croatia as a modern and successful European state of peace, freedom, democracy and human rights. Solidarity and justice as well as strong economic development are the prerequisites of our success. All our citizens, especially those holding responsible offices, have the obligation and honour to build such a European Croatia and promote our country's national interests," Josipovic said.