ZAGREB, February 28, 2020 - International law is the basis for solving the Croatian-Slovenian border dispute, on which the European Commission and the European Court of Justice have taken positions, Croatian President Zoran Milanović said on Thursday after talks with Slovenian President Borut Pahor.

The two heads of state held a working meeting in Otočec Ob Krki, Slovenia during Milanović's first foreign visit as Croatia's new president.

"What is the basis? In our opinion, international law," he said, adding that he was saying this "before talks have started."

He said the two countries were "nowhere" in terms of procedure and that it was necessary to see how to proceed. The basis will be "what we agree."

"It's necessary to sit at the table and talk, literally and figuratively, and see how to proceed," Milanović said, adding that border arbitration was not an issue that "disturbs the sleep and gives a hangover" to the two countries.

Pahor said the outstanding issues would not be solved overnight but that they should be approached in the spirit of "mutual respect, good neighbourliness and European values." He reiterated, however, Slovenia's position on the need to honour the arbitration award.

"Slovenia considers that the tribunal has delivered a judgment and that it must be honoured," he said, adding that resolving outstanding issues was of strategic importance for Slovenia, both in terms of security and the economy.

Pahor directly tied Croatia's prospective entry to the Schengen Area to the final settlement of the border dispute, i.e. the enforcement of the arbitral tribunal's 2017 award. "It's in Slovenia's interest that Schengen expand to Croatia... The element of security is very important for Slovenia. But if an agreement were reached on the arbitral tribunal, that would make it easier for Slovenia to adopt a decision on Croatia's Schengen accession."

Milanovic said Slovenia benefitted the most from Croatia's protection of its own border. "Croatia wishes to enter Schengen and it's obvious that Slovenia can benefit the most from that."

"If Croatia currently weren't present on the border with Bosnia and Herzegovina, it's a question what situation Slovenia would be in in protecting its own and Schengen's external border," he said.

Milanović said he understood that Slovenia could not ignore the arbitration issue in Piran Bay just like that "because it's been going on too long and it has an emotional element." He added, however, that there are border disputes in the EU that have lasted since 1815 and "one lives with that."

"Slovenia is in a position to say yes or no here. The European Commission has assessed that Croatia meets all the technical requirements (for Schengen) and Slovenia now has to see what suits it."

Milanović said Croatia was criticised in the European Parliament for being rough and too aggressive in protecting its border, adding that there was both truth and exaggeration in that. "But that's a tough job that we will and would, in case we enter the Schengen regime as soon as possible, have to do even more intensively."

Asked what he expected of Slovenia's new government if Janez Janša became prime minister, Milanović said Janša had been prime minister in two terms already. "I'm convinced there will be no negative surprises, but there will be a dialogue."

Both presidents supported the cooperation of Croatia and Slovenia in the Alpe-Adria and Brdo-Brijuni initiatives, and strongly supported EU enlargement to North Macedonia and Albania.

"We support enlargement to those two countries which have been kept on the side for a long time, and keeping them in uncertainty is counterproductive and dangerous," said Milanovic.

He is disappointed, he added, that they have been treated as "poor, less worthy brothers" although they have met many requirements.

"Let's be realistic. Some conditions they will never and can't fulfil, just as perhaps neither Croatia nor Slovenia ever would. Negotiations should be begun with those states as soon as possible and simultaneously."

Milanović said both Albania and North Macedonia had come far and that perhaps they were even blackmailed a little to change some things, such as their name. "What now? Send the message that it's not enough? That's not the way to build a common Europe and a common house."

He said Albania's problems and legacy "can't be erased overnight" and that it was a burden with which the EU must enter into an arrangement with Albania. It would be even worse to say that the EU does not count on Albania, he added.

"What kind of message is that to a state in which 60% of the population is nominally Islamic, keeping them waiting so long?" Milanović said, adding that he feared that might be interpreted as if that was too many non-Christians.

As for the Slovenian government's criticisms that the measures Croatia has taken to prevent coronavirus from harming the economy, he said he believed the Croatian government was doing what was necessary.

More news about relations between Croatia and Slovenia can be found in the Politics section.

ZAGREB, February 25, 2020 - President Zoran Milanović on Tuesday attended a ceremony marking the 26th anniversary of the formation of the Honorary Protection Battalion and Military Chaplaincy Day, where he promoted members of the battalion and awarded them with red berets.

The Honorary Protection Battalion is part of the General Staff of the Croatian Armed Forces and is responsible for honorary-ceremonial tasks for the purposes of the state and military leadership as well as for the protection and security of the President of the Republic as Commander in Chief.

President Milanović greeted the 300-strong battalion at a special ceremony in the Tuškanac barracks in Zagreb and said that the troops were selected according to very clear and measurable criteria, which makes them a cut above the rest.

"The others are good, but based on all the criteria, which are clear, transparent and known to everyone, you are better and remain elite," he said.

"In your case, elitism is not gained by birth or origin but through work and learning and that is what I was referring to in my inauguration speech, that I will advocate, stimulate and promote professionalism and patriotism," he added.

Milanović said he was pleased that the battalion is equipped with helmets and rifles made in Croatia. "I would like us to produce airplanes...we will be producing ships, I will advocate that, so that we are as visible as possible. Here, we will conduct our own policies and those of NATO and our allies, but our policies too," he said.

He thanked all Homeland War veterans who had defended Croatia in 1991. "I don't know any case in recent history in which so many people owed so much to such a small number of people, Croatia's defenders in 1991...who came from a relatively poor, disarmed and plundered country. We are referring to a few thousand people who held Croatia during those times. Everlasting glory and gratitude to them, particularly those who were killed, who were wounded, their families, everlasting thanks," Milanović said.

More news about Zoran Milanović can be found in the Politics section.

The Zoran Milanovic mandate is well and truly underway following his somewhat controversial inauguration with a performance of the Croatian national anthem by famous singer Josipa Lisac attracting not only attention but a lawsuit. 

Not an idea way to begin a mandate as president, you might say, but in spite of the socky beginnings, the Milanovic mandate has already done something that hasn't been done before. An energy and climate expert has been hired at Pantovcak. 

As Darko Bicak/Poslovni Dnevnik writes on the 21st of February, 2020, dr.sc. Julije Domac is an expert in his field and is also the longtime leader of the regional energy agency - REGEA.

The new President of the Republic, Zoran Milanovic, recently appointed his advisory team, and among other things, energy and the climate were recognised for the first time at Pantovcak as something strategic, and dr.sc. Julije Domac Ph.D., was appointed Special Advisor for Energy and Climate.

As stated, Domac is a longtime leader of the regional energy agency, REGEA, and one of the biggest proponents of energy transition and renewable energy in Croatia. On the occasion of his appointment within the Milanovic mandate, Domac told Poslovni Dnevnik that he is proud to advise the President of the Republic of Croatia, Zoran Milanovic, on particularly important topics - energy and the climate.

''These are the topics that should definitely be the focus of every EU member state at the moment when the adoption of the EU Green Deal has made energy transition imperative. I believe that together, we in Croatia will be able to inspire good ideas and help make Croatia into what it can and should become - a European leader and an example of sustainable energy use and climate protection. A policy that recognises the profession, and a scientific community that works closely with the business community is the way to go,'' Domac stated.

For more information on the Milanovic mandate and much more, follow our dedicated politics page.

After two days of relentless press coverage, Croatia diva Josipa Lisac has gone into seclusion after releasing a statement that she would no longer comment on her unforgettable interpretation of “Lijepa nasa domovina”, the Croatian national anthem at the inauguration of Zoran Milanović.

She also declined to comment on the recent criminal charges filed against her for allegedly violating the reputation of Croatia through her interpretation of the national anthem. While the inauguration of Croatia’s fifth president has been nearly forgotten, Lisac’s otherworldly interpretation of the hymn has taken on a life of its own.

Croatia Diva’s Male Admirers Post Impersonation Videos

Some of Josipa Lisac’s male admirers, seeing an opportunity, are emerging with interpretations of the icon’s performance, which they are posting on social media.

Lisac Releases Statement Through Union and Record Company

Here is a translation of the Josipa Lisac’s statement, released by the HGU (Croatia Musician’s Union) and Croatia Records, which appeared today on her Instagram and Facebook accounts:

“By this statement, we are appealing to all media and debate participants on social networks, who have been relentlessly discussing the national anthem and the performance of the celebrated music giant, Ms. Josipa Lisac, for two days now. Unfortunately, this is a complete disregard for the artistic freedom and creation of a musician whose style is adored by every generation and seen as one of the greatest legends of our domestic music scene. It is clear to every well-intentioned person that this is not a matter of insulting the national anthem. Ms. Josipa Lisac’s style and way of interpreting (music) is widely known, and this situation is further proof that we live in a society where basic human and cultural values ​​are on shaky ground, as is our manner of communication.

Lisac: No Comment on Inauguration Performance Reactions

At the request of Ms. Josip Lisac, we would like to inform you that she will no longer comment on reactions to her performance of the Republic of Croatia's national anthem at the inauguration of President Zoran Milanović.

Nor will she comment on criminal charges or any similar forthcoming reactions from individuals, associations or institutions, regardless of the medium in question. The past couple of days have been extremely demanding on her, so please keep her privacy in mind, especially since she has always cooperated with the media. She appreciates the support and the fact that the media have conveyed to everyone a real picture of the current state of our society through their reporting.

Award Winning Musician Will Receive Porin Lifetime Achievement

Josipa Lisac, recently turned seventy years of age, and in her 53 years in the industry, has recorded many exceptional pieces of music, for which she is still revered at her numerous concerts. She is also one of the most award-winning musicians of all time and has won as many as twenty-two Porins for her achievements along with her associates. This year at the Porin ceremony in Rijeka on March 27; the Board of Directors will award her a Porin for her lifetime achievement.

Josipa Lisac is a truly unique figure on the Croatian music scene, and a musician worthy of respect and admiration.

"It's all music, and music it is, or it is not."

Josipa Lisac

Statement signed by Želimir Babogredac, Director of Croatia Records and Nikša Bratoš, President of HGU.

Follow updates on reactions to Josipa Lisac’s unforgettable performance and the pending criminal charges against her here.

ZAGREB, February 20, 2020 - Science and Education Minister Blaženka Divjak said on Thursday that she did not have "anything particularly good to say" about Jadranka Žarković, whom President Zoran Milanović chose to be his advisor on education, and that it would be better to wait for Žarković's first moves.

"If I don't have anything good to say about people, I rather wait for them to make their first moves," Divjak told reporters in Brussels, where she attended a meeting of the Council of the EU on education.

Milanovic has confirmed that Žarković, a psychologist and former head of the Education and Teacher Training Agency, will be his advisor on education, dismissing media reports that as the head of the Education and Teacher Training Agency, she used to send teachers and children to lectures organised by "In the Name of Family" association and the association of retired generals.

Žarković was appointed head of the Education and Teacher Training Agency during Milanović's term as prime minister in 2015, when Vedran Mornar was Science and Education Minister.

She was chosen among as many as 12 candidates, and the media reported at the time that the selection procedure was shrouded in secrecy.

The media also questioned her decision, made at the start of her term, to abolish an award for the most successful Croatian students participating in national and international competitions.

Žarković taught psychology for a long time at one of Zagreb's high schools, which was attended by one of Milanović's two sons.

More news about Zoran Milanović can be found in the Politics section.

Attorney Boško Županović has submitted a criminal complaint against Croatian diva Josipa Lisac for performing and intoning the national anthem of Croatia in a derogatory way during the inauguration of President Zoran Milanovic on February 18, 2020.

Criminal Complaint Filed at Zagreb State Attorney’s Office

Yesterday Županović submitted his complaint against the beloved diva and gay icon to the Criminal Division of the Zagreb County State's Attorney's Office for the criminal offense referred to in Article 349 of the Criminal Code, which pertains to the reputation of Croatia.

His criminal complaint against Josipa Lisac is translated below in its entirety:

Pursuant to Article 204, Page 1 of the Criminal Procedure Code, I submit a:

Criminal Complaint

Against: Josipa Lisac from Zagreb, born 02/14/1950, residing in Zagreb.

It is requested that the suspect's other personal information be accessed through research within the operational records of Croatia MUP.

For: Committing a criminal offense referred to in Article 349 of the Criminal Code.

On the date of February 18, 2020; during the inauguration of the President of the Republic of Croatia, she (Josipa Lisac) publicly performed and intoned the national anthem of the Republic of Croatia, in a mocking and derogatory manner, thereby fulfilling all the essential components of the criminal section pertaining to the violation of the reputation of the Republic of Croatia, which is described in more detail in Article 349 of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Croatia.

Explanation

In performing her intonation of the national anthem, the suspect used mocking articulations and tonalities which, despite her peculiar musical oeuvre and expression, were not socially acceptable. And as a person whose native language is Croatian, she had to know that this form of intonation in the Croatian language and culture is always used in forms of public mockery or disparaging imitation of someone’s statement, recitation or musical or compositional expression.

I believe that no citizen, whether it is a music artist or anyone else, has the right, tonally, vocally, or through gestures; to manifestly diminish the gravity, seriousness and significance of the intonation of the national anthem or the textual and musical structure of the national anthem. I maintain that any artistic penetration into the composition, text and musical structure of the national anthem is prohibited. Such a modification or personalization may be tolerated for other musical expressions, with the consent of the author but not with national anthems. The way in which the suspect did so during her intonation is absolutely mocking and disparaging. Therefore, I believe that the suspicion of the alleged criminal offense arose from the same.

In terms of evidence, I propose a recording of the public intonation of the national anthem, which was performed in the office of the President of the Republic of Croatia, during the inauguration of the President on February 18, 2020.

For the above, I propose that you conduct the necessary inquiries against the indicted suspect in the indictment.

In Opatija, February 19, 2020

Boško Županović, Magister Juris

Županović Complaint Based on Opinion, Not Musical Background

Županović told Dragan Miljaš/Dalmatinski portal on February 19, 2020 that he is a law graduate and that does not have any specific musical background by which to evaluate Josipa Lisac’s performance from a professional standpoint.

“This is my opinion. Her performance was disgusting and disdainful. Our national anthem is particularly beautiful and patriotic and sends a wonderful and clear message. No one should be allowed to manipulate our national anthem. I have nothing against Josipa Lisac or against Zoran Milanović for that matter. Let him be President to all citizens, as he announced, and let her continue her singing, which will surely continue to garner varied reactions. However, I do not believe that anyone should intone and perform the national anthem of my country in that manner."

Croatia Attorney Expected Josipa Lisac to 'Howl'

"This is especially important since it happened at a public event, the inauguration of the President of Croatia, which was covered extensively by the media. I expected her to howl, but something like this…it was a form of ridicule in the worst possible way. I was deeply ashamed of being Croatian yesterday,” Županović insisted. He revealed that he does not expect anything to come of his complaint.

"This (complaint) will likely go to some music experts, and a crow doesn’t dig out its own eyes, so I don’t believe that anyone would dare say anything against her," Županović added.

Article 349 of the Criminal Code states that anyone who publicly scoffs, despises or grossly belittles the Republic of Croatia, its flag, coat of arms or anthem will be punished by imprisonment for a term not exceeding one year.

Županović Not Seeking Media Attention, Faced Criminal Charges

"Look, I’m not seeking media attention. I did it as a lawyer and a proud citizen. I think it is just plain mockery and is not fitting of any event, let alone the inauguration of an elected Croatian president. I used my own time to write this application because I consider it to be my civic duty. I sent this criminal complaint to the institutions in charge, so they can do their job," Županović elaborated in a separate interview with Davor Tomšić/Index on February 19, 2020.

Index also reviewed Boško Županović’s background and discovered that he has faced criminal charges of his own.

In 2016, he sued an activist in Rijeka, who accused him of collecting 66 criminal charges by the age of 25. In 2009, Županović was tried for two frauds and payment of counterfeit money.

"I wouldn’t be indulging in this kind of speculation if I were you. I am not a convicted person. You know what criminal charges are. I have filed charges against Josipa Lisac so we will see. I am a non-convicted person, and these are just insinuations," he pointed out to Index.

Županović’s name is mentioned in association with ten companies, five of which are active. He claims to own the portal Liburnija.

"I have been in the real estate investment business for two decades. For the past two years I have been the sports director of a club in Koper, Slovenia,” he added.

Boško Županović and Friends | Facebook

Pictures with Brothers Mamić and Grabar-Kitarović

According to his Facebook profile, Županović doesn't always run in the company of law-abiding citizens either. He has welcomed pictures with Croatian justice fugitive Zdravko Mamić, his brother Zoran, and former Croatian President Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović.

Diva Lisac After Performance: "I had to get up early. Normally, I sleep until 11:00!"

Lisac's performance gets mixed reviews from Croatian citizens.

Follow our Politics page for updates on Županović’s criminal complaint against the Croatian diva Josipa Lisac.

February 20 - A look behind the scenes at the Zoran Milanovic inauguration of the office of the Croatian Presidency through the eyes of one of the few foreigners to attend. 

As I had never been to the Presidential compound on Pantovcak, I thought I would try and take advantage of the Zoran Milanovic inauguration to see the place, as well as to observe the swearing in ceremony up close. It was bound to be a rather curious affair, given the tension between the SDP man and the HDZ government, who would be in attendance. And the fact that Milanovic decided against a big event with just 39 guests reportedly invited, as well as a rather unusual choice of singer for the National Anthem meant that it could be quite an event. I am very grateful to official spokesman Nikola Jelic for arranging two press passes for myself and colleague Forrest - everything was swiftly and smoothly arranged.  

We were instructed to report to Pantovcak 281 between 09:00 and 11:00 to process the press accreditation, with the ceremony due to start at midday. My faithful Varazdin chauffeur dropped me in plenty of time, and I switched vehicles to be transported to the location of the ceremony. 

Initially I thought that the reason for the transfer was due to the rain, but then I got to understand the size of the presidential grounds. It is HUGE. Not the greatest filming in history, but here is the drive from the gate to where the ceremony took place. Incredibly beautiful and peaceful, although the chap in charge of picking up leaves has his work cut out. 

It was WET. 

Although it was going to be a low-key affair (apparently it cost six times less than Kolinda's inauguration), I had been expecting a little more life than this - the video above was taken 30 minutes before kick off. 

I had no idea what to expect in terms of media access, and I was a bit surprised to learn that for the ceremony itself, we would all be in the room next door watching events on television screens. Having enjoyed the fabulous hospitality for the press at the opening night of Rijeka 2020 recently, it was also a surprise to see the contrast at the inauguration. When I rocked up in the press room at about 11:30, I saw evidence of a few coffees, but there were no refreshments whatsoever. Not a problem for me, but a little surprising. Although we could not go into the room for the ceremony, we were allowed in a little before - see video above.  

And we were free to roam around some parts of the building - busts of some prominent Croats on display.  

Both Milanovic and Prime Minister Plenkovic were dropped directly by the entrance, and it was only outgoing President Kolinda Grabar-Kitarovic who walked the red carpet past the ceremonial guards. Her arrival is in the video above. 

I have never met Kolinda (her office rejected a request for a TCN interview a couple of years ago), but she has now smiled at me twice in my life. The first time was at Spancirfest in Varazdin in 2016 when I ran along a hill to get in position to take her photo, slipped, fell and rolled down to land almost at her feet. It was one of the highlights of my less than distinguished journalistic career. And she was probably not smiling at me when she walked past, but it felt like it. Although I am not a fan personally, she conducted herself with dignity on what must have been a very difficult and emotional day for her.  

The press room, with the Milanovic inauguration taking place behind us. 

There is not much point me commenting on the inauguration itself, as I saw it the same as everyone else - on television - albeit with the added bonus of a sea of cynical comments from the assembled national media. 

And there was one major talking point. My views on the rendition of the national anthem by Croatian icon Josipa Lisac are unimportant, and the subject has been covered at length in the Croatian media already. But check it out in full above. 

There was another female star at the ceremony, First Lady Sanja Milanovic, and it was great to see her promoting Croatian fashion and excellence with her outfit from Varteks. 

And after the ceremony, we waited in the hallway for a chance of a photograph, an interview. I was very impressed with how civil and polite members of the media were towards each other. No pushing, checking that views were not obstructed. Much more civilised than I had been expecting. A liaison lady took requests from journalists as to who they would like to interview, and then she went into the ceremony room and brought those who agreed to appear for the cameras. 

Former President Ivo Josipovic (who unlike Kolinda, did agree to my interview request) was one of the first out. 

And then they were there. Like an estranged couple who had been married for years but no longer had anything in common, the doors opened and the two presidents emerged and climbed the stairs for a short meeting. The campaign was brutal, and there is clearly no love lost between them, but protocol was adhered to. Thinking about it, the room was filled with key members of the HDZ government who are opposed to Milanovic in general - I wonder how many friends and allies were among the 39 guests.

I was a little surprised not to receive a programme of the day's schedule with the press accreditation, but I soon learned why. There simply was no progamme. There was less of an inauguration and more of a bureaucratic procedure. The black cars started to appear and the prominent guests took their leave. PM Plenkovic was one of the last to leave, at precisely 12:59, less than an hour from the start of the ceremony. Astonishing that such an event could be over so quickly, but I liked it in a way. My last editorial was called Would Croatia Be Better If Its Politicians Were Not Treated As Rock Stars? The Milanovic dour approach is certainly in stark contrast to the previous regime, and perhaps we can now focus on real issues. 

Milanovic seems to have decided to downplay the role of the presidency, perhaps more in line with the reality of the importance of the office, after five years of Kolinda's style over substance. Whatever I think of his politics, I for one welcome that. 

Being a first timer at such an event, I wasn't quite sure where to stand, and it was an education to watch the professionals set up shop for the best angles. This is how it looks behind the scenes. 

And of course I was standing in the wrong place, as I soon learned after my phone started beeping incessantly, with screenshots of live national television coverage such as the one above. 

I could be wrong, but I think we might actually have been the only two foreigners at the Milanovic inauguration - great material for my faithful trolls who think I am the MI6 chief in the Balkans. It took some effort, but we managed to secure the building.  

And then, perhaps the most poignant moment of all - the Kolinda farewell. President Milanovic walked former President Grabar-Kitarovic to her car, give her flowers, a kiss and a wave goodbye. Then he turned round and went back into his new home. 

And that was the end of the party - time 13:15. 

For a different TCN account of the Milanovic Inauguration, check out Forrest Stilin's Croatia President Inauguration: Gay Icon Eclipses Modest Event. 

 For the latest news about President Zoran Milanovic, follow the dedicated TCN section. 

ZAGREB, February 19, 2020 - President Zoran Milanović said on Wednesday that he would agree with the government's proposal that Rear Admiral Robert Hranj be appointed new military chief of staff.

In his address to reporters Milanovic, who was inaugurated on Tuesday, said that he had already discussed this topic with Prime Minister Andrej Plenković.

In comments by reporters that it seemed to them that Plenković had appeared displeased at his inauguration, the new president said that their conversation yesterday was normal.

Milanovic admitted there were normal sparks, and there may be some in the future or maybe there won't be."

"I can already hear interpretations of who stood up, who shook hands (at the inauguration). There is no clear protocol," Milanovic said alluding to some media reports on the inauguration ceremony.

As for some criticism against his future adviser for education, Jadranka Pečenković Žarković, a psychologist and a former head of the Education and Teacher Training Agency, Milanović dismissed claims that she used to send teachers and children to lectures organised by "In the Name of Family" association and the association of retired generals.

"That is not true. Somebody obviously has a grudge (against her). She was at the helm of the agency for four years. She will be my adviser," Milanovic said, explaining that Pečenković Žarković is an experienced expert who does not belong to any "clan."

The Education and Teacher Training Agency is a public institution responsible for the provision of professional and advisory support in the area of general education in Croatia.

On his first day in office, Milanović visited Zagreb's Mirogoj cemetery to lay wreaths at the Wall of Pain, the National Heroes vault and the grave of unidentified Homeland War victims. Milanovic also laid flowers and lit candles at the graves of the first Croatian President Franjo Tuđman and the Social Democratic leader and a former prime minister, Ivica Račan.

More news about Zoran Milanović can be found in the Politics section.

ZAGREB, February 19, 2020 - Prime Minister Andrej Plenković said on Tuesday the nomination of Vice Admiral Robert Hranj as new military chief of staff would be on the government's agenda on Thursday and that there were no problems with President Zoran Milanović in agreeing on the nomination.

Plenković told reporters Hranj was one of the key people in the Main Staff who, together with the head of his office, was at the helm of a task force for the procurement of fighter jets.

Most important for the government and the defence minister is that the Croatian army functions well and that the highest commanders are reputable officials with the skills and knowledge necessary for the army, he said.

Defence Minister Damir Krstičević said Hranj was a good choice and that their cooperation so far had been very good.

Reporters asked both officials what they thought about Milanović's inauguration earlier today.

Plenković said he saw no problem in the fact that he did not comment on it earlier. "This was the inauguration of the president of the republic, it's his day. I was there, respecting Croatian institutions and the whole process. I congratulated him and think everything was okay."

Plenković said Milanović's speech was about how he saw society and his work ahead, adding that the government has its own programme and work.

Asked what their cohabitation would be like, he said they would cooperate there where the constitution and the law "connected" them, adding that today they talked informally and not about when they would meet.

Krstičević once again congratulated the new president. "What's key is that we focus on the further development and strengthening of the Croatian army and that's my task."

The prime minister also commented on announcements that gas prices would go down. "I think that's good," he said, adding that it was important that the goal was to raise living standards, which he said could be achieved by reducing expenses and raising salaries.

More news about Zoran Milanović can be found in the Politics section.

The conversation with my Uber driver took a familiar turn once he detected my American accent. I was on my way to the inauguration of Zoran Milanović, the fifth president of Croatia. It was my first presidential inauguration.

Of course, he wanted to know what I thought about living in Croatia and my answer was typically positive. But, it’s too bad so many people are leaving. He had traveled the world in his former profession, and assured me that new people, immigrants, would take their place and the country would be even better because of it. Croatia could benefit from some diversity, he suggested.

Uber Driver: Someday Croatia Will Be Like Poland

We agreed that, perhaps, one day Croatia would be more like Poland. In the years following their entry into the EU, hundreds of thousands of Poles left their homeland for more financially rewarding jobs in Western Europe. In the meantime, the Polish economy has strengthened, and people are coming back.

I had applied in advance to attend the event at Pantovčak, the home of the Croatian president. The driver dropped me off at the bottom of a gated sloped lot manned by imposing Croatian servicemen in camouflage uniforms and red berets. One kindly directed me to stand under the eave so as not to get wet, as there was a light drizzle, while they verified my name on the attendance list. Within minutes, I had boarded a blue van with three other journalists which drove us down a winding road into a wooded gulley.

Security check line at the entrance of Pantovčak, the Croatian presidential home.

There were about 30 military band members and press waiting at the entrance to pass through security, which went rather quickly, much like the pre-check line at a US airport. Then we proceeded up a few flights of outdoor stairs to another heavily windowed thick modern building. Several TV journalists were set up in the first room, which featured a dramatic curved staircase. The second room, where the inauguration would take place, had a few dozen chairs. Clearly, we could not all fit into that room. I followed the line of journalists into a third room, with several large round tables and long table where reporters had staked out space for laptops.

Go to Pantovčak, Watch Live Inauguration on TV Monitors

There were two TV monitors. Those were for us, I concluded disappointedly, and wondered why I was even there. I’d have had better views watching TV from home. There were a few familiar faces: a reporter for a left-leaning portal wore a dashing suit with a silk patterned neck scarf which puffed out of his unbuttoned shirt, resembling a Southern Italian tycoon. And I didn’t realize that one correspondent from a popular news channel was so incredibly tall.

Paul Bradbury, Total Croatia News Editor-in-Chief and my boss, arrived separately, and texted that he had made the 11:00 deadline to get in. Whew. Shortly thereafter, the security officer alerted us that the door to our room would be closed until the end of the event. There were a couple of trays of Turkish coffee in cups with a pitcher of milk and packets of sugar. Those went fast. There were no bathrooms.

Paul getting shots of the inauguration room. That's as close as we could get.

Once Paul arrived, we headed outside to take pictures of the virtually empty terrace in the drizzle. There was a raised platform for selected TV networks, which provided a direct view of the inauguration room, through the floor to ceiling windows. That overlooked an L-shaped red carpet covered by clear plastic. To the left of the platform was a canopy for the small band to play. For whom, I wondered as I scanned the empty wet cement.

Respect for Space and Photo Views Among Journalists

Audis began pulling up alongside the vast cement terrace, and word passed around that soon-to-be former President Kolinda Grabar Kitarović was in one of them. I was pleasantly surprised at how respectful fellow journalists were of everyone’s space. I lost count of the number of times my counterparts turned around to confirm that they were not blocking my view…me with my Android. And it seemed that once I had staked out a place to take pictures, that place was mine. A photographer alerted me to move aside temporarily for a TV reporter. Once she was finished, I returned to my spot upon his encouragement. No elbowing. No clamoring. How civil.

Kolinda Grabar Kitarović entering Pantovčak for the last time as president.

Kolinda, who lost her bid for a second term, arrived looking solemn and resolved. She paused to pay respect to the troops and followed the soaked red L-carpet in spiked heels into the small enclosed ceremony space. Five years ago, by contrast, her inauguration was a major affair held in St. Mark’s Square open to the public and attended by foreign dignitaries.

The security guard herded us back inside to the press room, where we watched the rest of the brief ceremony on two monitors. I had briefed Paul about Josipa Lisac, and had been surprised to find out that she would be performing at Milanović’s swearing in – especially since he had revealed in a Nova TV debate that he was a fan of New Wave music from the early 80s.

Croatian Gay Icon Delivers Curious Rendition of National Anthem

Lisac’s presence and vocals are difficult to characterize. She turned 70 on Valentine’s Day. Since catapulting into her 40s, she has become as well-known for pushing the limits of fashion and her gravity-defying geometric fire-orange hair sculptures, as she is for her “unique” voice. She’s considered an icon in the Croatian gay male community, with one young reporter excitedly revealing in a recent interview that he aimed to impersonate his favorite diva.

Josipa Lisac in concert | Facebook

However, paying homage to Lisac would be a formidable, if not impossible, task. Most gay icons, like Cher or Liza Minnelli, leave drag queens a little material work with. Lisac, by contrast, seems committed to preemptively outdoing her prospective imitators. There simply aren’t many mannerisms or wild outfits left to accent or exaggerate.

Watching reactions to Lisac's rendition of the national anthem on the TV monitor.

While loyal followers might identify with her emotive vocal gymnastics, some critics are inclined to compare her singing to a cross between Cher...and a hound, among other beings. She opened the intimate affair by performing the Croatian national anthem, and while I should have been paying respect to the land of my ancestors, I found myself marveling at Lisac’s unusual delivery and rubbery facial contortions on the TV monitor. And did anyone else see the new president close his eyes during this…rendition? Paul, in typical English fashion, is somewhat restrained in his visible reactions. But even his eyes widened through that molasses-paced otherworldly performance.

Milanović Coasts Through: Reviews Political Campaign Points

Perhaps dazed by his chosen guest’s abstract interpretation of the national hymn, the new president seemed momentarily confused about his next move. Was there something in the brown wooden box? Wait, no. After being prompted, he headed over to another table to sign a very official-looking document. His brief speech touched on familiar campaign themes: anti-corruption, quality education for all, cooperation with neighbor states, the wars are over and minority rights.

A signature makes it official. | Sanja Musić Milanović and Zoran Milanović

"Our republic needs every person and every person in Croatia must be given a chance to find their way and their place, to live in dignity from decent work. This is a home to us all, to us who live here and to the generations to come, as well as to those who are yet to return," Milanović concluded.

As we left the press room for the entry, the band played “Tvoja zemlja” (Your Country), a song which, more than any other (in my opinion), epitomizes the Croatia of yesterday and today. Admittedly, it’s the one Croatian standard that always leaves me a little misty-eyed.

"Here you will always find a home,
A heart that beats for you,
Arms that guide you,
A mother that understands you,
You will know everything you need to know.

You will know the pain of crying
When your country suffers;
But above it all
You’ll surely realize
how much this land means to you.

This is your country, here you build a home,
Here is an old foundation, here beneath your ruins.
Foreigners and storms have ripped her apart,
But she’s still here as long as we’re here.

You'll be blessed just like us.
A king who knows no crown,
But within his soul
Like everyone among us
You'll be as glorious as we are."

‘No photos past the first stair!’

The security guard corralled us through a narrow, roped corridor to the left of the curved grand staircase. Then she announced that no photos were allowed after the former and new president ascended the first stair of the long winding staircase. Everyone protested, but the cameras stopped the second the former president and her victor reached the second step. Limited photo ops ensued as other prominent figures exited the small gathering.

A small cluster of us remained reined in by a blue velvet rope. After some confusion, the security guard released us and we headed back through the entrance, where we awaited more photo ops of politicians getting into cars.

"Are you satisfied (with your performance)?" One reporter called out to Josipa Lisac as she unassumingly entered her ride. She declined to comment.

Paul looked at his phone. It was 12:53. The entire affair had lasted less than an hour. He grabbed some prime footage of Milanović and Kolinda hugging and exiting together. Then, we slowly made our way through the expansive hilly wooded grounds to the gated entrance.

Paul at the entrance of Pantovčak, the home of the Croatian president.

According to reports, the cost of Milanović’s inauguration was one-sixth of that of his predecessor’s. For those enchanted by pomp and circumstance, it was likely a disappointment. But, like most inaugurations, it will soon be forgotten and surpassed by what the president, within the limited scope of his office, can do for the country.

Check out Paul Bradbury's account of the ceremony with some great videos here. Follow the activities of Croatia's new president on Total Croatia News here.