Plenkovic received the Washington Award, here who thanked him all in his speech
Prime minister Andrej Plenkovic In Washington, he received the award for the prominent leadership of Think Tanka Atlantic Council as « recognition for Croatian management, dedication to European unity and strengthening transatlantic relations. » In a solemn moment with numerous guests, the US Energy Minister attended Chris Wright. The premiere was announced at the ceremony by IDC/CDI and former Columbia President Andres Pastran.
– The longest -running prime minister in modern Croatian history has gained the trust of Croatian citizens in three consecutive terms, which is rare in today’s politics. In a time that often commemorates uncertainty, Prime Minister Plenkovic has provided continuity, stability and clear strategic vision – the traits behind the key success of Croatia from its independence.
Under his leadership, Croatia entered the Euro -Pod and Schengen area and achieved the second largest economic growth rate in the EU – a testimony of responsible management. On the international scene, Croatia today speaks with confidence and credibility. His government has modernized the Armed Forces of the Republic of Croatia in close cooperation with the United States and European Allies, procuring a multi -purpose Rafala fighter jet.
It made a generational dream by building the Peljesac Bridge, which is finally connected. A strategic LNG terminal was also built on the island of Krk, making Croatia a regional energy hub.
Through all this, his leadership moved forward in every way. In crisis moments, he showed determination and compassion-from the management of Pandemia of the Covid-19, to the provision of support to Ukraine, protection of households during the energy crisis and renovation after two major earthquakes.
Through all these challenges, his leadership was steadfast and effective – giving confidence at home and respect abroad. In the homeland, he advocates social solidarity. Abroad, it promotes European unity, strongly believes in transatlantic connection and is a respected advocate of democratic values.
His leadership goes beyond the borders of Croatia-through the roles in the European People’s Party and as the vice president of the International Democratic Union of the Centar-Right, where he brings experience and belief.
It is appropriate that tonight, here in Washington, joins the circle of world leaders – many of them come from far larger countries and institutions. His achievements have secured a place on the world scene to Croatia, and his heritage has not yet been completed – Pastran said in the introductory speech.
After that, Plenkovic thanked the United States in his speech, the prominent Croats who left a deep mark on America and the Croatian people.
– For the past nine years, my greatest honor and greatest responsibility has been to perform the duty of the Croatian Prime Minister. As the President of Pastran pointed out, these were the years formed with a growing number of global crises. In many ways, management today is no longer a matter of routine decision -making – it is a constant exercise of resistance and crisis management. But through every challenge, I tried to keep a stable direction for Croatia – always guided by a simple but fundamental goal: to improve the lives of our citizens.
Because ultimately, it is the essence of public service and good management. Our vision was for Croatia to take its place among the most advanced, stable and prosperous nations in Europe and the world. That time it wasn’t easy. We started our journey in the early 1990s from the ashes of war and destruction.
Our task was more difficult because of that past, but our determination was carved in it. The will of the Croatian people to fight and defend their freedom is what has enabled every success since then. And tonight I can proudly say: The story of Croatia is a success story – which is still written.
This success, which is recognized here in Washington, has a special meaning, because the United States of America has long been one of the most respected Croatian strategic partners and closest allies.
From the day of the war to today’s deep and growing cooperation – among administrations and through generations – America was with Croatia. And Croatia, as a dedicated transatlantic ally, will continue to be with America.
Deep connections between our peoples are reflected not only in our common values, but also in the lives of countless Croats who helped to design America:
– from Peter Tomich, who gave his life to Pearl Harbor to save his crew and receive a medal of honor;
– Mike Grgich, whose wine put California on the world map;
– Anthony Lucas Lucic, whose innovation was encouraged by the Texas oil boom;
– Ivan Meštrović whose sculptures are adorned with Chicago;
– Nikola Tesla, whose genius illuminated America and revolutionized the modern world.
These are just some of the many who have built permanent bridges among our nations. Together we remain committed to the preservation of transatlantic connections as the stone of the foundation of the free and democratic world. Less and less than that would weaken Europe and the United States and only encouraged those who challenge our common values. This truth is still valid today in Ukraine, as in the 1990s in Croatia, and everywhere where freedom is endangered. America always advocated for freedom – and I am convinced that they will always do it.
As a loyal friend and ally, Croatia will do so.
The respected guests, as proud of our partnership with the United States, are equally proud to be a member of the European Union.
Two principles led my political vision: modern sovereignism abroad and social cohesion at home. At the international level, entering the most intense circles of European cooperation, Croatia strengthened its sovereign voice. That is why we are stronger and more influential and now we are participating in the design of the future of Europe. We worked tirelessly at home to raise the standard of living, ensuring that no one would be neglected.
We have shown that the construction of a competitive economy is fully compatible with the strengthening of solidarity – especially in crisis times, and especially to those who need the help most.
Strengthens Croatia abroad, and a fairer and more advanced Croatia at home – this will remain a compass for our future work. Receiving this award tonight, I do it with a deep gratitude for the trust that the Croatian people continue to show me. I dedicate this honor to him, because of his perseverance, resilience and ability to overcome adversity. Because Croatia – as our athletes often show – may not be the biggest country, but we always play above our category. And I assure you that we will continue that way.
Thanks again to the Atlantic Council and thank you all for your presence and support – Plenkovic concluded.
