With very little fanfare, this week Croatia (together with Albania) joined NATO, bringing the total of countries in the alliance to 28. (We previously mentioned the talks last year regarding this issue – here.)
At NATO Headquarters in Brussels, on Tuesday,the two countries’ flags were raised in the presence of their respective Prime Ministers – Sali Berisha of Albania and Ivo Sanader of Croatia. Albania and Croatia had officially become members on 1 April and participated in their first summit on 3 and 4 April.
Even though Prime Minister enjoys any chance to get his picture on the television, the event passed relatively quietly here in Croatia – unlike Albania which had big concerts and NATO flags flown throughout the country. Croatians are nervous about joining these international organizations – with it being an even-money bet for a positive result to any EU membership referendum if held presently. It appears Sanader is trying to have a little each-way as local elections approach in May.
The subtle changes so far have been we have already seen several American naval vessels visit Split this month, and advertising is appearing in local buses to entice youngsters to join Croatia’s new totally professional military; there is no longer compulsory national military service here – a NATO requirement.
The big question – how much pressure will this membership put on Croatia’s fiscal situation? What will Croatia be required to purchase to update its military so that it can now play with the big boys?
Popularity: 1%
