Defence Minister Mario Banozic on Monday congratulated Croatian Navy (HRM) personnel on its 30th anniversary, saying the HRM was created at a watershed time in 1991 when it was necessary to defend Croatia's existence on its part of the Adriatic, as well as history and tradition.

“On the 30th anniversary of the HRM, we remember with gratitude, in thought and in prayer, all those who contributed to our freedom with their lives,” Banozic said.

He said that today the HRM was “protecting the Croatian Adriatic and defending national interests at sea,” and urged its personnel to “strive for excellence, strengthen our Navy.”

The main ceremony of marking the HRM’s 30th anniversary will be held in Split later today, with President and Armed Forces Supreme Commander Zoran Milanovic, Banozic and Chief-Of-Staff Admiral Robert Hranj attending.