(E) John Kerry Statement for Croatia's Statehood Day
John Kerry Statement for Croatia's Statehood Day
May 30, 2004
Contact: George Kivork, 202-712-3000
Washington, DC – Democratic presidential candidate John Kerry issued the following statement Sunday in remembrance of Croatia’s Statehood Day:
“Today I join the people of Croatia and Croatian descent as they celebrate Croatia's Statehood Day. Over a decade has passed since Croatia declared its independence from Yugoslavia in the early 90’s. Independence has not always been easy, but in joining the Adriatic Charter in 2002, Croatia has taken positive steps toward securing its own peace and becoming integrated into a Europe whole and free. I congratulate Croatia on the progress it has made and urge Croatians to continue working for peace, justice and democracy in their country.
For over a hundred years, Croatians also have contributed to the rich diversity of immigrants that have made America what it is today. Our nation owes much to those hard-working men and women who sought to better their fortunes here, and who have contributed so much to our culture, our freedom, and our prosperity. Croatians around the world have earned the right to celebrate their independence on this day.”
