The newly re-elected President of the Republic of Croatia, Zoran Milanović, addressed the guests after his reappointment, emphasizing the importance of peace, security, and the independence of institutions. In his speech, Milanović highlighted that life is not always a calm sea, and the primary task of state institutions is to maintain the peace and security of citizens. He also stressed that the goal is not only to prevent difficult times from becoming dramatic, but to ensure that they do not impact the most vulnerable and unprotected.

"Nothing has ever been given to us, everything Croatia has ever achieved, it has achieved through the will of its people. We will never be able to repay the debt to those who defended us from aggression. But this is not a thank you to war, it is an ode to freedom," said Milanović. He also pointed out that despite the growth of GDP, too many people still live in poverty, and that it is in Croatia's best interest for its institutions and media to remain independent – as protection against arbitrariness and tyranny.

After the speech, at exactly noon, the Croatian Navy's "Sv. Juraj" choir performed the national anthem of Croatia, and then Milanović took the oath before the President of the Constitutional Court of Croatia, Miroslav Šeparović. Milanović swore that he would perform the duties of President conscientiously and responsibly, in accordance with the Constitution and laws, and safeguard the independence, survival, and unity of Croatia.

"I swear on my honor that I will carry out the duties of the President of the Republic of Croatia conscientiously and responsibly for the benefit of the Croatian people and all Croatian citizens. As President of Croatia, I will uphold the Constitution and the laws, ensure respect for the constitutional order of the Republic of Croatia, oversee the orderly and just functioning of all state authorities, and preserve the independence, survival, and unity of the Republic of Croatia. So help me God!" Milanović said while taking the oath.

You can read the full speech HERE.

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