Zagreb marks City Day with awards and pledges of continued cooperation

Zagreb celebrated its City Day on Sunday with commemorative and entertainment events across the capital. 

The city also presented its annual awards and honors during a ceremony at the Old City Hall attended by local and national officials.

Despite their political differences, Prime Minister Andrej Plenković and Mayor Tomislav Tomašević emphasized strong cooperation between the national government and the city, highlighting completed projects and several major initiatives currently underway.

"Over the past five years, since I've been mayor, we've never seen so many representatives from all three branches of government. And I truly believe that all of you here today carry our beloved city in your hearts," Tomašević said.

Plenković underscored the government's support for the capital, saying that every ministry had contributed to Zagreb's development over the past decade.

Although the two leaders have not always agreed on key issues, both pledged to continue working together.

"We don't always agree on everything – from organizing homecoming events for our athletes to some other issues – but that's democracy. We will always try to present our arguments and explain our position," Plenković said.

Among the joint projects highlighted by the prime minister and mayor were the transformation of the 19th-century Paromlin factory complex into a cultural hub that will include Zagreb's new central library, as well as the construction of a new stadium in Maksimir.

Both officials agreed that traffic congestion and waste management remain the city's biggest challenges.

"There is a lot of construction work taking place across the city. A great deal of infrastructure needs renovation, including underpasses, overpasses, bridges, gas and water lines, and tram tracks," Tomašević said.

The mayor also highlighted a €400 million overhaul and expansion of Zagreb's water supply and sewage network. He added that Zagreb remains one of the safest cities in Europe.

President Zoran Milanović, who also attended the ceremony, wished residents a happy City Day and described Zagreb as his favorite city.

"I'm cheering on all your projects because I feel they are mine as well. I wish everyone a happy Zagreb Day. May it be sunny and pleasant, and may our Zagreb live forever," Milanović said.

Among the recipients of this year's Zagreb City Awards was Croatian skier Zrinka Ljutić.