Pope backs Croatia's EU bid

[emezico]

Pope Benedict XVI has given his strong backing to Croatia's bid to join the EU, on his first visit to the nation.

He said he understood fears of a loss of cultural identity from joining the bloc but said Europe needs to be reminded of its Christian roots.

The Pope was warmly welcomed in the staunchly Catholic nation, leading a prayer vigil for thousands in Zagreb.

On Sunday he is to celebrate Mass and visit the tomb of controversial WWII Cardinal Alojzije Stepinac.

There has been criticism of the $6m (£3.6m; 4m euros) cost of the two-day visit but the correspondents say the Vatican has long had a special relationship with Croatia.


Source: BBC