The Government of the Republic of Croatia, as part of its efforts to increase support for projects of interest to Croats in Bosnia and Herzegovina, has approved funding for two more projects – one in Orašje for the construction of the 106th HVO Brigade Square, and another in Čapljina for the construction of the "St. John XXIII Pastoral-Educational Center." Upon the recommendation of the Commission for the Evaluation and Determination of Projects of Strategic Importance for Croats outside the Republic of Croatia, the Croatian Government has declared the following projects of strategic importance: the "Construction of the 106th HVO Brigade Square in Orašje" project by the City of Orašje, the "Infrastructure Projects" of the Mostar-Duvno and Trebinje-Mrkan dioceses, and the "Hrvatski Glasnik" project of the Croatian National Council of Montenegro. The Central State Office for Croats Outside the Republic of Croatia will sign financial support agreements with the beneficiaries, including the City of Orašje, the Mostar-Duvno and Trebinje-Mrkan dioceses, and the Croatian National Council of Montenegro.
Regarding the first two projects, it was emphasized that the special interest of the Republic of Croatia is the care for Croats in BiH as an equal, sovereign, and constituent people. This is achieved, among other things, by supporting educational, scientific, cultural, health, agricultural, and sports projects, as well as projects of strategic importance. The city of Orašje, with its rich history and tradition, will honor the brave defenders of the 106th HVO Brigade by building the 106th HVO Brigade Square, a tribute to those who defended Orašje, Posavina, and this part of Bosnia and Herzegovina during the Homeland War. The project not only contributes to preserving the culture of remembrance but also invests in the better present and future of the community through various facilities such as children's and sports playgrounds, promenades, and cultural-educational spaces. The project also has the potential to attract tourists, strengthen local cohesion, and improve the quality of life. The "Construction of the 106th HVO Brigade Square in Orašje" project will receive 500,000 euros.
The Mostar-Duvno and Trebinje-Mrkan dioceses, through their educational, social, cultural, and humanitarian programs, contribute to improving the quality of life and the sustainable presence of Croats in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Special attention is given to working with children and youth, providing support through strengthening entrepreneurial potential, which helps prevent and stop the trend of migration from this part of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The "Infrastructure Projects" include the construction and renovation of pastoral centers, providing space for spiritual activities, education, and cultural content, while also preserving the cultural and historical heritage. Between 2025 and 2028, the "St. John XXIII Pastoral-Educational Center" will be built in Čapljina, a town home to local residents as well as Croats who were displaced during the Homeland War. The "Infrastructure Projects" will receive 500,000 euros.
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