"With a nearly two-thirds majority, the Croatian people have pronounced themselves in favour of joining us in creating a common European future. I congratulate them on this strong Yes and I will feel privileged to warmly welcome Croatia into the EU on 1 July 2013", said Joseph Daul, Chairman of the EPP Group, following the result of the Croatian referendum to join the EU.

"The Croatian people have demonstrated that the ideas and the foundations on which the EU was built still strongly resonate. It is a lesson for all of us to remember that in these times of crisis, Europe is the answer. The Croats have travelled a long road to find themselves on the brink of EU membership and it is only fitting that this decision should come only days after the 20th anniversary of Croatian independence."

"I am looking forward to seeing our Croatian colleagues take their place beside us. In that regard, the EPP Group will continue to closely follow and support Croatian EU entry through the process of ratification in National Parliaments", concluded Joseph Daul.

For further information:

Joseph DAUL MEP, Chairman of the EPP Group, Tel: +33-3-88175525

Antoine Ripoll, Chairman's Spokesman, Tel: +32-475-856290

Lada Jurica, EPP Group Press and Communications Service, Tel: +32-476-330383

Notes to Editors:

The EPP Group is by far the largest political group in the European Parliament with 271 Members.