Prime Minister Andrej Plenković marked World Roma Day by celebrating with representatives of the Roma community and emphasizing the importance of mutual respect and strong cooperation that has been established over the past eight years. During a meeting with parliamentarian Veljko Kajtazi, Plenković was presented with an application form for honorary membership, and he expressed pride in the unbreakable bond between the government and the Roma community.
Plenković acknowledged that while official statistics show that there are over 18 thousand Roma living in Croatia, unofficial estimates suggest that there may be twice as many. He stressed the significance of investing in education, particularly among young Roma, as a key factor in improving their quality of life.
The Prime Minister’s government has implemented a policy of partnership with all national minorities in Croatia, including a special operational plan for national minorities. Plenković stated that they are dedicated to correcting any shortcomings and ensuring that resources are allocated appropriately to support minority populations. Additionally, he announced plans to improve infrastructure in Roma settlements, providing them with access to basic services like electricity and water.
Overall, Plenković’s message emphasized the government’s commitment to inclusivity and cooperation with national minorities, aiming to create a more equitable and thriving society for all residents of Croatia.
