Government holds session following summer recess

The government held session on Thursday following a three-week summer recess. 

In commenting on a potential peace deal in Ukraine, which relies heavily on security guarantees for the war-torn country, Prime Minister Andrej Plenković repeated that Croatian soldiers would not be sent to Ukraine in any capacity.

"The security of Ukraine is not just important for the freedom of Ukraine, it is important for Europe and the entire world. That is why this government is so engaged in the matter," said Plenković.

He went on to blame President and Commander-in-Chief Zoran Milanović for starting rumors that Croatia was planning to send soldiers to Ukraine as part of a NATO training mission.

"I reject all of the unfounded speculation regarding the sending of Croatian soldiers to Ukraine. This was never considered nor is this expected of us," he said.

Plenković added that the "fabricated theories" unfairly occupy public discourse and lead to confusion among citizens.

Meanwhile, Tourism Minister Tonči Glavina said tourism numbers were up slightly over last year, with 15.5 million arrivals and 79.2 million overnight stays recorded so-far this year.

The minister was quick to note that, despite the very mild increase in numbers, tourist spending was up by 10.4%.

Demographics and Immigration Minister Ivan Šipić said the government was investing in efforts to reverse negative demographic trends.

A new project worth 30 million euros is being implemented to enable small, medium and large enterprises to develop and increase employment.

"This will help stop negative trends and, God willing, improve demographics," said Minister Šipić.