In an unpredictable world where geopolitical headwinds are rattling Europe and inflation is on the rise, Croatia is hoping that its impending move to the euro would provide some measure of safety for the Balkan nation.

To join the eurozone as the 20th member, Croatia will say goodbye to its currency, the kuna, on January 1.

The former Yugoslav Republic, which joined the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-set-to-put-united-nations-focus-on-iran-protests-next-week-529304">European Union</a> almost ten years ago, reported an annual inflation rate of about 13 per cent in September, compared to 10 per cent in the eurozone.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-assets-worth-17-bn-euros-frozen-by-eu-says-official-529442">Russian assets worth 17 bn euros frozen by EU, may be given to Ukraine for rebuilding: Official</a>

Authorities have often emphasised the benefits of adopting the euro for the nation's 3.9 million residents in the run-up to the switchover.

"The euro brings resilience," Ana Sabic of the Croatian National Bank told AFP, arguing that Zagreb will, if needed, have access to more favourable borrowing conditions amid economic hard times.

The European Central Bank has been implementing a monetary tightening strategy since July in an effort to tame the inflation that has exploded due to skyrocketing oil and food costs brought on by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-task-set-by-you-has-been-completed-russia-ends-mobilisation-for-ukraine-zelensky-expresses-doubt-529302">Russia's war</a> in Ukraine.

Analysts continue to claim that eastern European EU nations like Poland and Hungary, whose currencies are not pegged to the euro, have been significantly more susceptible to rising inflation.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In an unpredictable world where geopolitical headwinds are rattling Europe and inflation is on the rise, Croatia is hoping that its impending move to the euro would provide some measure of safety for the Balkan nation.

In an unpredictable world where geopolitical headwinds are rattling Europe and inflation is on the rise, Croatia is hoping that its impending move to the euro would provide some measure of safety for the Balkan nation. To join the eurozone as the 20th member, Croatia will say goodbye to its currency, the kuna, on January 1. The former Yugoslav Republic, which joined the European Union almost ten years ago, reported an annual inflation rate of about 13 per cent in September, compared to 10 per cent in the eurozone. Also read | Russian assets worth 17 bn euros frozen by EU, may be given to Ukraine for rebuilding: Official Authorities have often emphasised the benefits of adopting the euro for the nation's 3.9 million residents in the run-up to the switchover. "The euro brings resilience," Ana Sabic of the Croatian National Bank told AFP, arguing that Zagreb will, if needed, have access to more favourable borrowing conditions amid economic hard times. The European Central Bank has been implementing a monetary tightening strategy since July in an effort to tame the inflation that has exploded due to skyrocketing oil and food costs brought on by Russia's war in Ukraine. Analysts continue to claim that eastern European EU nations like Poland and Hungary, whose currencies are not pegged to the euro, have been significantly more susceptible to rising inflation. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Croatia gears up for Euro switch amid soaring inflation

In the last change to the FIFA World Rankings before the World Cup starts next month, Brazil increased their lead at the top and Spain dropped below Italy. Brazil, the only team to have competed in every World Cup finals, will go into next month's tournament in Qatar seeking a record-extending sixth crown. They will do so with a bigger lead at the top of the rankings after friendly wins over Ghana and Tunisia widened the gap on second-placed Belgium who lost to the Netherlands in the Nations League.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-psg-settle-for-1-1-draw-at-benfica-despite-record-lionel-messi-stunner-522988">Champions League: PSG settle for 1-1 draw at Benfica despite record Lionel Messi stunner</a>

Brazil's great rivals Argentina remained third, with world champions France fourth and Euro 2020 runners-up England fifth. There was good news for Italy, who failed to qualify for the World Cup finals again, as they climbed above Spain into sixth place. Other World Cup-bound teams climbing the rankings were&nbsp;Croatia, up three places to 12th, Iran up two spots to 20th and Serbia who rose to 21st.

In the last change to the FIFA World Rankings before the World Cup starts next month, Brazil increased their lead at the top and Spain dropped below Italy. Brazil, the only team to have competed in every World Cup finals, will go into next month's tournament in Qatar seeking a record-extending sixth crown.

In the last change to the FIFA World Rankings before the World Cup starts next month, Brazil increased their lead at the top and Spain dropped below Italy. Brazil, the only team to have competed in every World Cup finals, will go into next month's tournament in Qatar seeking a record-extending sixth crown. They will do so with a bigger lead at the top of the rankings after friendly wins over Ghana and Tunisia widened the gap on second-placed Belgium who lost to the Netherlands in the Nations League. ALSO READ | Champions League: PSG settle for 1-1 draw at Benfica despite record Lionel Messi stunner Brazil's great rivals Argentina remained third, with world champions France fourth and Euro 2020 runners-up England fifth. There was good news for Italy, who failed to qualify for the World Cup finals again, as they climbed above Spain into sixth place. Other World Cup-bound teams climbing the rankings were Croatia, up three places to 12th, Iran up two spots to 20th and Serbia who rose to 21st.

FIFA Rankings: Brazil extend lead at the top, Croatia jump three places to 12th

Tour de France winner Jonas&nbsp;Vingegaard&nbsp;won an uphill sprint to take the third stage of the Cro Race on Thursday (September 29). The Danish Jumbo-Visma rider beat Britain's Oscar Onley (Team DSM) to the line after the 157km ride from Sinj to Primosten.

Slovenia's Matej Mohoric took third place while his Bahrain Victorious teammate Jonathan Miller held on to the general classification lead with a fifth-place finish.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mo-farah-pulls-out-of-london-marathon-due-to-injury-concerns-520898">Mo Farah pulls out of London marathon due to injury concerns</a>

Stage four on Friday is a 157km ride from Biograd na Moru to Crikvenica.

Tour de France winner Jonas Vingegaard won an uphill sprint to take the third stage of the Cro Race on Thursday (September 29). The Danish Jumbo-Visma rider beat Britain's Oscar Onley (Team DSM) to the line after the 157km ride from Sinj to Primosten.

Tour de France winner Jonas Vingegaard won an uphill sprint to take the third stage of the Cro Race on Thursday (September 29). The Danish Jumbo-Visma rider beat Britain's Oscar Onley (Team DSM) to the line after the 157km ride from Sinj to Primosten. Slovenia's Matej Mohoric took third place while his Bahrain Victorious teammate Jonathan Miller held on to the general classification lead with a fifth-place finish. ALSO READ | Mo Farah pulls out of London marathon due to injury concerns Stage four on Friday is a 157km ride from Biograd na Moru to Crikvenica.

Cro Race 2022: Danish cyclist Jonas Vingegaard secures first win since Tour de France title

Spain is planning to offer digital nomad visas to encourage non-European Union (EU) citizens to come to the country and enjoy working in the sun. The law is yet to be passed but the Spanish government is intending to dole out lucrative incentives to make the proposal all the more enticing.

Digital nomads or remote workers refer&nbsp;to individuals who travel remotely and work using technology and internet. They do not have a set base and work in public libraries, cafes and&nbsp;co-working spaces. Countries across Europe are luring them with visas to boost tourism.&nbsp;

Reportedly, the digital nomad visa will be offered to those who are self-employed or working remotely or employed by non-Spanish companies. The applicants&nbsp;will need to be outside the European Economic Area and should be able to furnish a contract of employment to demonstrate they have been working remotely.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/who-are-digital-nomads-working-remotely-and-travelling-the-world-488237">WATCH |&nbsp;Who are Digital nomads? Working remotely and travelling the world</a>

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While the more intricate details are yet to be hammered out, the Spanish government is expected to grant a residency permit for a year, which can be renewed for up to five years, depending on the applicant's record. Spouses or children&nbsp;will also be eligible to join the applicant.&nbsp;

Additionally, for the initial four years, the individual will receive a 10 per cent relaxation in the taxation scheme. According to Spanish media outlets, the new residents will be taxed at 15 per cent, compared to the standard 25 per cent rate.&nbsp;

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-agrees-to-suspend-visa-travel-deal-with-russia-defers-from-full-tourist-visa-ban-511858">EU agrees to suspend visa travel deal with Russia. Defers full tourist visa ban</a>

This particular visa scheme will come under the propsed 'Startup Act', the reports said. The main aim of the Startup Act is to develop a thriving 'startup ecosystem' in Spain and simultaneously, make it a premier destination for entrepreneurs.

If the Spanish government does come up with the planned proposal, it will join the list of European countries such as Croatia, Estonia, and Hungary to have issued some version of digital nomad visa.

While the aforementioned countries have a minimum earning requirement, the Spanish government has not given any indication of adding such a caveat yet. However, the visa applicants might need to prove that they will earn enough to sustain themselves.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Spain is planning to offer digital nomad visas to encourage non-European Union (EU) citizens to come to the country and enjoy working in the sun. The law is yet to be passed but the Spanish government is intending to dole out lucrative incentives to make the proposal all the more enticing.

Spain is planning to offer digital nomad visas to encourage non-European Union (EU) citizens to come to the country and enjoy working in the sun. The law is yet to be passed but the Spanish government is intending to dole out lucrative incentives to make the proposal all the more enticing. Digital nomads or remote workers refer to individuals who travel remotely and work using technology and internet. They do not have a set base and work in public libraries, cafes and co-working spaces. Countries across Europe are luring them with visas to boost tourism. Reportedly, the digital nomad visa will be offered to those who are self-employed or working remotely or employed by non-Spanish companies. The applicants will need to be outside the European Economic Area and should be able to furnish a contract of employment to demonstrate they have been working remotely. WATCH | Who are Digital nomads? Working remotely and travelling the world × While the more intricate details are yet to be hammered out, the Spanish government is expected to grant a residency permit for a year, which can be renewed for up to five years, depending on the applicant's record. Spouses or children will also be eligible to join the applicant. Additionally, for the initial four years, the individual will receive a 10 per cent relaxation in the taxation scheme. According to Spanish media outlets, the new residents will be taxed at 15 per cent, compared to the standard 25 per cent rate. Read more: EU agrees to suspend visa travel deal with Russia. Defers full tourist visa ban This particular visa scheme will come under the propsed 'Startup Act', the reports said. The main aim of the Startup Act is to develop a thriving 'startup ecosystem' in Spain and simultaneously, make it a premier destination for entrepreneurs. If the Spanish government does come up with the planned proposal, it will join the list of European countries such as Croatia, Estonia, and Hungary to have issued some version of digital nomad visa. While the aforementioned countries have a minimum earning requirement, the Spanish government has not given any indication of adding such a caveat yet. However, the visa applicants might need to prove that they will earn enough to sustain themselves. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Spain proposes 'digital nomad' visa to attract talent to its shores

Croatia has been battling wildfires amid soaring temperatures. The raging fires are now threatening the coastal town of Vodice. The police had to block the roads in the country as firefighters doused the fire.

WION Climate Tracker | Fire threatens coastal town of Vodice | Authorities cordon off affected areas

Imagine you return from a nice vacation, are happy and content that your escape from everyday cycle was a fulfilling one. You unpack your suitcase planning to take out the souvenirs you bought and see 18 scorpions pop&nbsp;out. It is not known whether a woman in Austria was thinking about souvenirs she bought from her Croatia vacation (if she indeed buy) but she was nonetheless startled to see 18 scorpions when she opened her suitcase.

Newsweek reported that the woman lives in Natternbach in Austria, a city close to Linz. The 18 scorpions&nbsp;included a mother scorpion and her babies.

The woman, surely scared as hell, managed to take a picture of the arachnids&nbsp;and then called Tierhilfe Gusental, an animal rescue service which&nbsp;made a Facebook post in German.

“This afternoon, we were contacted by a lady from Natternbach because blind passengers had settled in her luggage on her Croatia trip,” says the FB post.

New York Post has reported that there are plans to send the animals to Croatia, their native country.&nbsp;

This is reportedly the third case of Croatian scorpions ending up in Austria. A woman in Linz found a scorpion in her apartment last month. The scary part is that the woman had been home for three weeks after her trip abroad before she discovered the scorpion.

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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Imagine you return from a nice vacation, are happy and content that your escape from everyday cycle was a fulfilling one. You unpack your suitcase planning to take out the souvenirs you bought and see 18 scorpions pop out.

Imagine you return from a nice vacation, are happy and content that your escape from everyday cycle was a fulfilling one. You unpack your suitcase planning to take out the souvenirs you bought and see 18 scorpions pop out. It is not known whether a woman in Austria was thinking about souvenirs she bought from her Croatia vacation (if she indeed buy) but she was nonetheless startled to see 18 scorpions when she opened her suitcase. Newsweek reported that the woman lives in Natternbach in Austria, a city close to Linz. The 18 scorpions included a mother scorpion and her babies. The woman, surely scared as hell, managed to take a picture of the arachnids and then called Tierhilfe Gusental, an animal rescue service which made a Facebook post in German. “This afternoon, we were contacted by a lady from Natternbach because blind passengers had settled in her luggage on her Croatia trip,” says the FB post. New York Post has reported that there are plans to send the animals to Croatia, their native country. This is reportedly the third case of Croatian scorpions ending up in Austria. A woman in Linz found a scorpion in her apartment last month. The scary part is that the woman had been home for three weeks after her trip abroad before she discovered the scorpion. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Woman comes home from vacation, finds 18 live scorpions in luggage

Jubilations were witnessed across Croatia after its long-awaited bridge linking its southern Adriatic coast with the rest of the country—as it bypasses&nbsp;a narrow strip of Bosnian territory—was opened for the public.

The 2.4-km cable-stayed bridge was funded by the European Union&nbsp;and built by China, reports BBC.

The Croatian bridge contract was awarded to a Chinese state-owned company, The China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC). It bid far less than its European rivals, prompting an Austrian company to file a complaint, alleging that CRBC was "price-dumping" and receiving Chinese state aid.

The bridge reaches out from the Croatian mainland to the Peljesac peninsula. The inauguration ceremony started Tuesday early morning, with musical performances and a boat race, while scores of pedestrians clocked selfies on the bridge.

“It is a major thing for people here since they did not even feel like they were living in their own country,” said Joso Miletic, 75, who travelled from his village near the city of Zadar, on the central coast, to watch the opening of the bridge, told AFP news agency. “This is the merging of Croatia into a whole.”

The bridge is regarded as the country’s most ambitious infrastructure projects since Croatia declared independence from Yugoslavia&nbsp;in 1991.

Until this bridge was conceived, people used to travel from mainland Croatia to its southern coast via a land belonging to Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The present arrangement of the border stems from the fact that when the former Yugoslavia broke up and Croatia became independent in 1991, the new borders of the Croatian coastline were split by a 9-km-long section of Bosnian coastline known as the Neum corridor.

Since Croatia is part of the EU and Bosnia is not, residents trying to travel between the two ends of the Croatian border had to go through two border checks.

But now anyone can drive straight along Croatia's Adriatic coast via the new bridge.

About 85 per cent of the cost of the bridge was funded by the EU, which spent €357m (£300m) using cohesion funds for what it said would improve significantly the everyday lives of Croatians, according to BBC.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Jubilations were witnessed across Croatia after its long-awaited bridge linking its southern Adriatic coast with the rest of the country—as it bypasses a narrow strip of Bosnian territory—was opened for the public.

Jubilations were witnessed across Croatia after its long-awaited bridge linking its southern Adriatic coast with the rest of the country—as it bypasses a narrow strip of Bosnian territory—was opened for the public. The 2.4-km cable-stayed bridge was funded by the European Union and built by China, reports BBC. The Croatian bridge contract was awarded to a Chinese state-owned company, The China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC). It bid far less than its European rivals, prompting an Austrian company to file a complaint, alleging that CRBC was "price-dumping" and receiving Chinese state aid. The bridge reaches out from the Croatian mainland to the Peljesac peninsula. The inauguration ceremony started Tuesday early morning, with musical performances and a boat race, while scores of pedestrians clocked selfies on the bridge. “It is a major thing for people here since they did not even feel like they were living in their own country,” said Joso Miletic, 75, who travelled from his village near the city of Zadar, on the central coast, to watch the opening of the bridge, told AFP news agency. “This is the merging of Croatia into a whole.” The bridge is regarded as the country’s most ambitious infrastructure projects since Croatia declared independence from Yugoslavia in 1991. Until this bridge was conceived, people used to travel from mainland Croatia to its southern coast via a land belonging to Bosnia and Herzegovina. The present arrangement of the border stems from the fact that when the former Yugoslavia broke up and Croatia became independent in 1991, the new borders of the Croatian coastline were split by a 9-km-long section of Bosnian coastline known as the Neum corridor. Since Croatia is part of the EU and Bosnia is not, residents trying to travel between the two ends of the Croatian border had to go through two border checks. But now anyone can drive straight along Croatia's Adriatic coast via the new bridge. About 85 per cent of the cost of the bridge was funded by the EU, which spent €357m (£300m) using cohesion funds for what it said would improve significantly the everyday lives of Croatians, according to BBC. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Croatia opens Chinese-built bridge around Bosnia amid celebrations

Croatia formally became the 20th member of the euro common currency as European Union finance ministers on Tuesday approved the country's request. The approval will come into being at the start of 2023. The European Council, the grouping of 27 EU governments, adopted three legal acts required to allow Croatia - an EU member since 2013 - to introduce the euro on January 1. One of those acts set the conversion rate for entry at one euro to 7.53450 Croatian kuna, with Croatia now having a few months to prepare the practicalities for the currency switch, as reported by Reuters.

European Commission Vice-President Valdis Dombrovskis said the use of the European currency would bring economic benefits to Croatia - the first country to join the euro since Lithuania in 2015. "It will help stabilize interest rates, making it easier and cheaper for people and companies to borrow and it brings a positive impact on growth thanks to the full integration into EU single market," he said.

To adopt the euro, Croatia had to fulfil criteria of price and exchange rate stability, sound public finances and moderate long-term interest rates, all measured against EU benchmarks. "I know that it's a wonderful club to be a member of but it requires commitment, dedication, and continued respect of the rules," European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde said at a signing ceremony, reports Reuters.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-no-more-sushi-for-japan-fatty-katsuo-fish-may-foreshadow-climate-change-heres-how-496614">&nbsp;In pics: No more sushi for Japan? Fatty 'katsuo' fish may foreshadow climate change, here's how</a>

Matthias Kullas of the Centre for European Policy (CEP) points out that Croatia's debt level of just under 80 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP) is below the average of the euro countries, which climbed to a good 95 per cent in the wake of the Covid crisis. But the Stability Pact actually sets the maximum limit at 60 per cent. Among the eight EU members that have not yet joined the monetary union, Croatia has the highest debt, as reported by Daily Express.

The European Commission examined Croatia's economic convergence with the rest of the eurozone, including balance of payments trends and the integration of its labour and financial markets, and verified that Croatian legislation is compatible with EU laws governing the European Central Bank. Croatia, in southeastern Europe, has been an independent country since 1991 when it left then-federal Yugoslavia. Neighbouring Slovenia, also an ex-Yugoslav republic and now EU member, adopted the euro in 2007.

(with inputs from agencies)

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Croatia formally became the 20th member of the euro common currency as European Union finance ministers on Tuesday approved the country's request. The approval will come into being at the start of 2023.

Croatia formally became the 20th member of the euro common currency as European Union finance ministers on Tuesday approved the country's request. The approval will come into being at the start of 2023. The European Council, the grouping of 27 EU governments, adopted three legal acts required to allow Croatia - an EU member since 2013 - to introduce the euro on January 1. One of those acts set the conversion rate for entry at one euro to 7.53450 Croatian kuna, with Croatia now having a few months to prepare the practicalities for the currency switch, as reported by Reuters. European Commission Vice-President Valdis Dombrovskis said the use of the European currency would bring economic benefits to Croatia - the first country to join the euro since Lithuania in 2015. "It will help stabilize interest rates, making it easier and cheaper for people and companies to borrow and it brings a positive impact on growth thanks to the full integration into EU single market," he said. To adopt the euro, Croatia had to fulfil criteria of price and exchange rate stability, sound public finances and moderate long-term interest rates, all measured against EU benchmarks. "I know that it's a wonderful club to be a member of but it requires commitment, dedication, and continued respect of the rules," European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde said at a signing ceremony, reports Reuters. Also Read: In pics: No more sushi for Japan? Fatty 'katsuo' fish may foreshadow climate change, here's how Matthias Kullas of the Centre for European Policy (CEP) points out that Croatia's debt level of just under 80 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP) is below the average of the euro countries, which climbed to a good 95 per cent in the wake of the Covid crisis. But the Stability Pact actually sets the maximum limit at 60 per cent. Among the eight EU members that have not yet joined the monetary union, Croatia has the highest debt, as reported by Daily Express. The European Commission examined Croatia's economic convergence with the rest of the eurozone, including balance of payments trends and the integration of its labour and financial markets, and verified that Croatian legislation is compatible with EU laws governing the European Central Bank. Croatia, in southeastern Europe, has been an independent country since 1991 when it left then-federal Yugoslavia. Neighbouring Slovenia, also an ex-Yugoslav republic and now EU member, adopted the euro in 2007. (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Why is croatia's joining of Eurozone a matter of concern for other EU countries?

Looking for the cleanest bathing waters in Europe? Save this list for your next trip

Two men were seen hugging each other for 24 hours. The performance is called 'study of a hug' and was seen in Croatia's Zagreb. Croatia is a Catholic country and LGTBQ issues remain highly divisive in the society.

Why these men hugged for 24 hours in Croatia

India's Rohan Bopanna and his Canadian partner Denis Shapovalov stunned top seeded Croatian pair of Nikola Mektic and Mate Pavic in straight sets to enter men's doubles quarterfinals at the Miami Open tennis tournament here.

The unseeded Indo-Canadian pair surprised Mektic and Pavic 6-3 7-6(3) in a second round doubles match on Sunday.

Bopanna and Shapovalov will now face the sixth seeded pair of Wesley Koolhof of Netherlands and Great Britain's Neal Skupski for a place in the semifinals.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/miami-open-jannik-sinner-saves-five-match-points-to-beat-carreno-busta-coco-gauff-cameron-norrie-advance-466406">Miami Open: Jannik Sinner saves five match points to beat Carreno Busta; Coco Gauff, Cameron Norrie advance</a>

Koolhof and Skupski defeated Spanish-Italian combination of Pedro Martinez and Lorenzo Sonego 6-3 7-6(8) in the second round.

Bopanna and Shapovalov earlier registered a fighting 6-7(5) 6-2 10-3 win over Marceloa Avrevalo of El Salvador and Jean-Juien Rojer of Netherlands in the opening round of the ATP Masters 1000 event.

India's Rohan Bopanna and his Canadian partner Denis Shapovalov stunned top seeded Croatian pair of Nikola Mektic and Mate Pavic in straight sets to enter men's doubles quarterfinals at the Miami Open tennis tournament here.

India's Rohan Bopanna and his Canadian partner Denis Shapovalov stunned top seeded Croatian pair of Nikola Mektic and Mate Pavic in straight sets to enter men's doubles quarterfinals at the Miami Open tennis tournament here. The unseeded Indo-Canadian pair surprised Mektic and Pavic 6-3 7-6(3) in a second round doubles match on Sunday. Bopanna and Shapovalov will now face the sixth seeded pair of Wesley Koolhof of Netherlands and Great Britain's Neal Skupski for a place in the semifinals. ALSO READ: Miami Open: Jannik Sinner saves five match points to beat Carreno Busta; Coco Gauff, Cameron Norrie advance Koolhof and Skupski defeated Spanish-Italian combination of Pedro Martinez and Lorenzo Sonego 6-3 7-6(8) in the second round. Bopanna and Shapovalov earlier registered a fighting 6-7(5) 6-2 10-3 win over Marceloa Avrevalo of El Salvador and Jean-Juien Rojer of Netherlands in the opening round of the ATP Masters 1000 event.

Miami Open: Rohan Bopanna-Denis Shapovalov pair stuns Croatia's Nikola Mektic-Mate Pavic to enter quarters

Croatian officials criticised NATO on Saturday for what they said was its slow reaction to a military drone that apparently flew all the way from the Ukrainian war zone over several NATO member states.

The Soviet-era Tu-141 “Strizh” reconnaissance drone, flying at 1,300 metres, came from Hungary and crashed seven minutes after entering Croatia's air space, the government said. Both Hungary and Croatia are NATO members.

"According to what we know now it was obviously launched on Ukraine's territory", Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic told reporters on Saturday.

"We don't know in whose possession it was," he said, adding that both Ukraine and Russia claimed it was not theirs.

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Plenkovic, speaking at the site of the incident, said he had sent a letter to his European Union counterparts and NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg over the incident.

"Whether it was accidental, a mistake or intentional, we do not know at this moment."

The incident "points to the need for closer cooperation within NATO", he said. He stressed the drone flew undisturbed over the alliance's three member states.

“We cannot tolerate this situation, nor should it have ever happened,” the prime minister said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/napoleons-waterloo-hitlers-barbarossa-5-lessons-putin-can-learn-from-failed-war-campaigns-461556" hreflang="en">Napoleon's Waterloo &amp; Hitler's Barbarossa: 5 lessons Putin can learn from failed war campaigns</a>

“This was a pure and clear threat and both NATO and the EU should have reacted,” he said. “We will work to raise the readiness not only of us but of others as well. ”

Defence Minister Mario Banozic said, "This was a very serious incident. We will have to investigate it thoroughly."

Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto said Hungary was closely cooperating with Croatia and other NATO allies.

"Our authorities are examining what happened, as according to present data, the air space of several NATO members including Hungary was affected by the drone's flight."

The drone crashed around 11:00 pm (2200 GMT) Thursday in a park close to the Jarun lake. Some six kilometres (four miles) from the city centre, the site is just next to a students residence with some 4,500 people and residential buildings.

Zagreb is located some 550 kilometres flying distance from the border with Ukraine, which Russia invaded on February 24. 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Croatian officials criticised NATO on Saturday for what they said was its slow reaction to a military drone that apparently flew all the way from the Ukrainian war zone over several NATO member states.

Croatian officials criticised NATO on Saturday for what they said was its slow reaction to a military drone that apparently flew all the way from the Ukrainian war zone over several NATO member states. The Soviet-era Tu-141 “Strizh” reconnaissance drone, flying at 1,300 metres, came from Hungary and crashed seven minutes after entering Croatia's air space, the government said. Both Hungary and Croatia are NATO members. "According to what we know now it was obviously launched on Ukraine's territory", Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic told reporters on Saturday. "We don't know in whose possession it was," he said, adding that both Ukraine and Russia claimed it was not theirs. Plenkovic, speaking at the site of the incident, said he had sent a letter to his European Union counterparts and NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg over the incident. "Whether it was accidental, a mistake or intentional, we do not know at this moment." The incident "points to the need for closer cooperation within NATO", he said. He stressed the drone flew undisturbed over the alliance's three member states. “We cannot tolerate this situation, nor should it have ever happened,” the prime minister said. Also read | Napoleon's Waterloo & Hitler's Barbarossa: 5 lessons Putin can learn from failed war campaigns “This was a pure and clear threat and both NATO and the EU should have reacted,” he said. “We will work to raise the readiness not only of us but of others as well. ” Defence Minister Mario Banozic said, "This was a very serious incident. We will have to investigate it thoroughly." Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto said Hungary was closely cooperating with Croatia and other NATO allies. "Our authorities are examining what happened, as according to present data, the air space of several NATO members including Hungary was affected by the drone's flight." The drone crashed around 11:00 pm (2200 GMT) Thursday in a park close to the Jarun lake. Some six kilometres (four miles) from the city centre, the site is just next to a students residence with some 4,500 people and residential buildings. Zagreb is located some 550 kilometres flying distance from the border with Ukraine, which Russia invaded on February 24. (With inputs from agencies)

Croatia slams NATO for its 'slow reaction' after Soviet-era drone crashes in Zagreb

Wine is a big business in Italy. People familiar with the industry know that geography and the name make a lot of difference, which is why Italy and Croatia are battling over Prosecco wine because at stake is a $2 billion monopoly.

Italy & Croatia battle it over Prosecco wine

At a joint press conference along with his Croatian counterpart Gordan Grlic Radman,&nbsp;Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Friday that India and Croatia shared a lot of common positions on issues like the Indo-Pacific, situation in Afghanistan and the two countries' resolve to fight terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.

The Indian external affairs minister said, "On international issues, we shared a lot of common positions and perspectives. It was very apparent in our discussions on Indo-Pacific, on Afghanistan, on our resolve how to counter terrorism in all its forms and manifestations."

Watch:&nbsp;India's Foreign Secretary visits Washington to discuss bilateral ties, Afghan crisis

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In a tweet about the meeting,&nbsp;Jaishankar said, "Fruitful talks with Croatia’s Foreign Minister&nbsp;Gordan Grlic Radman."

Talking about the issues discussed, he added, "Detailed exchanges on full range of bilateral cooperation, regional and global issues.&nbsp;Committed to work with him to take our ties to a higher level."

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Fruitful talks with Croatia’s Foreign Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/grlicradman?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@grlicradman</a> . 
 
Detailed exchanges on full range of bilateral cooperation, regional and global issues. 
 
Committed to work with him to take our ties to a higher level. <a href="https://t.co/bSPnNI4IlD">pic.twitter.com/bSPnNI4IlD</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1433878467636957185?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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With increasing economic cooperation between the two countries on mind, the Indian minister said&nbsp;there are a lot of opportunities in pharmaceuticals, digital and infrastructure sectors. "We believe that Indian companies will find Croatia a very good platform to operate and invest," minister added.

In the meeting, the two leaders discussed numerous topics of mutual interest, which included situation in Afghanistan, economic and cultural cooperation, EU-India relations&nbsp;and post-COVID-19 recovery.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/militants-may-use-afghan-chaos-to-infiltrate-us-eu-nato-410633" hreflang="en">Militants may use Afghan chaos to infiltrate US, EU: NATO</a>

After completing two-day visit to Slovenia, the minister reached&nbsp;Croatia where Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic&nbsp;received him.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

At a joint press conference along with his Croatian counterpart Gordan Grlic Radman, Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Friday that India and Croatia shared a lot of common positions on issues like the Indo-Pacific, situation in Afghanistan and the two countries' resolve to fight terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.

At a joint press conference along with his Croatian counterpart Gordan Grlic Radman, Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Friday that India and Croatia shared a lot of common positions on issues like the Indo-Pacific, situation in Afghanistan and the two countries' resolve to fight terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. The Indian external affairs minister said, "On international issues, we shared a lot of common positions and perspectives. It was very apparent in our discussions on Indo-Pacific, on Afghanistan, on our resolve how to counter terrorism in all its forms and manifestations." Watch: India's Foreign Secretary visits Washington to discuss bilateral ties, Afghan crisis × In a tweet about the meeting, Jaishankar said, "Fruitful talks with Croatia’s Foreign Minister Gordan Grlic Radman." Talking about the issues discussed, he added, "Detailed exchanges on full range of bilateral cooperation, regional and global issues. Committed to work with him to take our ties to a higher level." Fruitful talks with Croatia’s Foreign Minister @grlicradman . Detailed exchanges on full range of bilateral cooperation, regional and global issues. Committed to work with him to take our ties to a higher level. pic.twitter.com/bSPnNI4IlD — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) September 3, 2021 × With increasing economic cooperation between the two countries on mind, the Indian minister said there are a lot of opportunities in pharmaceuticals, digital and infrastructure sectors. "We believe that Indian companies will find Croatia a very good platform to operate and invest," minister added. In the meeting, the two leaders discussed numerous topics of mutual interest, which included situation in Afghanistan, economic and cultural cooperation, EU-India relations and post-COVID-19 recovery. Also Read | Militants may use Afghan chaos to infiltrate US, EU: NATO After completing two-day visit to Slovenia, the minister reached Croatia where Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic received him. (With inputs from agencies)

India, Croatia share common position on Afghanistan situation, says Jaishankar

Sandesh Jhingan will become the first India international footballer to play in the Croatian top-tier league Prva HNL after completing a move from ATK Mohun Bagan to HNK Sibenik.

The 28-year-old Sandesh will be the flag bearer of India's top division league, the Indian Super League (ISL), as he makes the transition to a European top division league.

"We are very happy to have Sandesh with us. We expect good things from him as we have followed him on different platforms where we were able to see his past performances. Although we know the adaptation process might take him a few weeks, we are confident that with his quality and leadership, he will become an important member of the team," said Francisco Cardona, CEO of HNK Sibenik in a release.

Named India's footballer of the year last month, the Indian defender is already in Croatia and watched Sunday`s home win against Hrvatski Dragovoljac.

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𝘼𝙣𝙤𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙢𝙞𝙡𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙖𝙣 𝙞𝙣𝙘𝙧𝙚𝙙𝙞𝙗𝙡𝙚 𝙟𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙣𝙚𝙮! ✨ 
 
Sending best wishes from the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianFootball?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianFootball</a> family to <a href="https://twitter.com/SandeshJhingan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SandeshJhingan</a> as he embarks on his new Croatian journey with HNK Sibenik 🤝🇮🇳<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianFootballForwardTogether?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianFootballForwardTogether</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BackTheBlue?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BackTheBlue</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BlueTigers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BlueTigers</a> <a href="https://t.co/kIfhpUU3ya">pic.twitter.com/kIfhpUU3ya</a>
— Indian Football Team (@IndianFootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndianFootball/status/1427982598064656398?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"He made a very good impression on the staff and fans of the club when he was watching the last home game from the stands. He showed passion and energy for the team," said Cardona.

Jhingan was excited to have the opportunity to move to HNK Sibenik in the Prva HNL in Croatia.

"I think I am at a stage of my career where I really want to test myself in the highest level possible and I think this is the perfect platform for me. As I have said, it has been my desire to play in Europe and I have taken up this challenge upon myself."

"A big thank you to the head coach Mario Rosas and the owners and management for giving me the opportunity to come here. I cannot wait to get going and look forward to giving my 100 per cent at every given opportunity," said Jhingan.

"We are very happy that Sandesh is with us. We know he will help us achieve the goals that we have set for ourselves during the season. His stint here will help him grow as a player and person," said HNK Sibenik coach Mario Rosas.&nbsp;

The Spanish coach was all praise for Jhingan`s decision to move out of his comfort zone.

"We hope that he will continue to be an example for Indian footballers. He has demonstrated his ambition and competitiveness by wanting to get out of his comfort zone and show what Indian footballers are capable of," said Rosas.

The defender has two ISL runners-up medals with Kerala Blasters FC where he spent six years and moved to ATK Mohun Bagan in 2020 after missing the previous season due to injury.

Sandesh Jhingan will become the first India international footballer to play in the Croatian top-tier league Prva HNL after completing a move from ATK Mohun Bagan to HNK Sibenik.

Sandesh Jhingan will become the first India international footballer to play in the Croatian top-tier league Prva HNL after completing a move from ATK Mohun Bagan to HNK Sibenik. The 28-year-old Sandesh will be the flag bearer of India's top division league, the Indian Super League (ISL), as he makes the transition to a European top division league. "We are very happy to have Sandesh with us. We expect good things from him as we have followed him on different platforms where we were able to see his past performances. Although we know the adaptation process might take him a few weeks, we are confident that with his quality and leadership, he will become an important member of the team," said Francisco Cardona, CEO of HNK Sibenik in a release. Named India's footballer of the year last month, the Indian defender is already in Croatia and watched Sunday`s home win against Hrvatski Dragovoljac. 𝘼𝙣𝙤𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙢𝙞𝙡𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙖𝙣 𝙞𝙣𝙘𝙧𝙚𝙙𝙞𝙗𝙡𝙚 𝙟𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙣𝙚𝙮! ✨ Sending best wishes from the #IndianFootball family to @SandeshJhingan as he embarks on his new Croatian journey with HNK Sibenik 🤝🇮🇳#IndianFootballForwardTogether #BackTheBlue #BlueTigers pic.twitter.com/kIfhpUU3ya — Indian Football Team (@IndianFootball) August 18, 2021 × "He made a very good impression on the staff and fans of the club when he was watching the last home game from the stands. He showed passion and energy for the team," said Cardona. Jhingan was excited to have the opportunity to move to HNK Sibenik in the Prva HNL in Croatia. "I think I am at a stage of my career where I really want to test myself in the highest level possible and I think this is the perfect platform for me. As I have said, it has been my desire to play in Europe and I have taken up this challenge upon myself." "A big thank you to the head coach Mario Rosas and the owners and management for giving me the opportunity to come here. I cannot wait to get going and look forward to giving my 100 per cent at every given opportunity," said Jhingan. "We are very happy that Sandesh is with us. We know he will help us achieve the goals that we have set for ourselves during the season. His stint here will help him grow as a player and person," said HNK Sibenik coach Mario Rosas. The Spanish coach was all praise for Jhingan`s decision to move out of his comfort zone. "We hope that he will continue to be an example for Indian footballers. He has demonstrated his ambition and competitiveness by wanting to get out of his comfort zone and show what Indian footballers are capable of," said Rosas. The defender has two ISL runners-up medals with Kerala Blasters FC where he spent six years and moved to ATK Mohun Bagan in 2020 after missing the previous season due to injury.

India footballer Sandesh Jhingan signs for Croatia's HNK Sibenik

At least ten people were killed and dozens of others were injured on Sunday when a bus slipped off the highway in eastern Croatia, police said.

The passengers were travelling on a regular bus line between the German city of Frankfurt and the Kosovo capital Pristina, a police official told reporters.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/croatian-town-legrad-selling-houses-for-less-than-1-here-is-all-you-need-to-know-391122">Also read |&nbsp;Croatian town Legrad selling houses for less than $1. Here is all you need to know</a>

The injured were hospitalised in the eastern town of Slavonski Brod close to where the crash occurred, a police statement said.

A total of 45 people were admitted to a Slavonski brod hospital including eight who sustained serious injuries, its head Josip Samardzic said.

There were no immediate details on the ages or nationalities of the passengers or the possible cause of the accident. The bus had Kosovo license plates.

At least ten people were killed and dozens of others were injured on Sunday when a bus slipped off the highway in eastern Croatia, police said. The passengers were travelling on a regular bus line between the German city of Frankfurt and the Kosovo capital Pristina, a police official told reporters.

At least ten people were killed and dozens of others were injured on Sunday when a bus slipped off the highway in eastern Croatia, police said. The passengers were travelling on a regular bus line between the German city of Frankfurt and the Kosovo capital Pristina, a police official told reporters. Also read | Croatian town Legrad selling houses for less than $1. Here is all you need to know The injured were hospitalised in the eastern town of Slavonski Brod close to where the crash occurred, a police statement said. A total of 45 people were admitted to a Slavonski brod hospital including eight who sustained serious injuries, its head Josip Samardzic said. There were no immediate details on the ages or nationalities of the passengers or the possible cause of the accident. The bus had Kosovo license plates.

Ten people killed in Croatia bus crash: police

Spain coach Luis Enrique hailed his players' character as the three-time European champions recovered from a nightmare start then let slip a two-goal lead before finally beating Croatia 5-3 in extra time to reach the Euro 2020 quarter-finals.

"It was a very intense game today that really had everything. Everyone saw our true team spirit today," Luis Enrique told a news conference.

"When the word ego disappears and the word team appears, of course, it's fantastic to be part of a group like that."

Spain had taken a 3-1 lead after an incredible error from keeper Unai Simon saw them fall behind.

"They didn't really create any chance, yet we conceded a goal. So when that happened, it felt very unfair and of course, it can lead to a bit of shock for a few minutes," Luis Enrique said.

'ENJOY&nbsp;FOOTBALL'

Croatia staged an astonishing comeback with goals in the 85th minute and in added time, but Spain went on to score two goals in extra time.

"I am pleased we got a second chance. That doesn't usually happen," the coach added. "It went crazy really after the 80th minute when we could have scored a fourth goal and put it to bed. Those final 10 minutes are something we have to learn from.

"We don't have that much international experience within the squad, and perhaps those kinds of mistakes are inevitable."

Luis Enrique was moved by the fans' appreciation of the pulsating game in Copenhagen.

"What really struck me was the final five minutes of extra time, when the fans stood up and applauded and paid tribute to the great effort and commitment of all of the players who had competed," he said.

"That was a lovely gesture from the fans, it was about recognizing the spectacle that both teams put on today. The headline tonight is: enjoy&nbsp;football."

Spain coach Luis Enrique hailed his players' character as the three-time European champions recovered from a nightmare start then let slip a two-goal lead before finally beating Croatia 5-3 in extra time to reach the Euro 2020 quarter-finals.

Spain coach Luis Enrique hailed his players' character as the three-time European champions recovered from a nightmare start then let slip a two-goal lead before finally beating Croatia 5-3 in extra time to reach the Euro 2020 quarter-finals. "It was a very intense game today that really had everything. Everyone saw our true team spirit today," Luis Enrique told a news conference. "When the word ego disappears and the word team appears, of course, it's fantastic to be part of a group like that." Spain had taken a 3-1 lead after an incredible error from keeper Unai Simon saw them fall behind. "They didn't really create any chance, yet we conceded a goal. So when that happened, it felt very unfair and of course, it can lead to a bit of shock for a few minutes," Luis Enrique said. 'ENJOY FOOTBALL' Croatia staged an astonishing comeback with goals in the 85th minute and in added time, but Spain went on to score two goals in extra time. "I am pleased we got a second chance. That doesn't usually happen," the coach added. "It went crazy really after the 80th minute when we could have scored a fourth goal and put it to bed. Those final 10 minutes are something we have to learn from. "We don't have that much international experience within the squad, and perhaps those kinds of mistakes are inevitable." Luis Enrique was moved by the fans' appreciation of the pulsating game in Copenhagen. "What really struck me was the final five minutes of extra time, when the fans stood up and applauded and paid tribute to the great effort and commitment of all of the players who had competed," he said. "That was a lovely gesture from the fans, it was about recognizing the spectacle that both teams put on today. The headline tonight is: enjoy football."

Euro 2020: Spain coach hails team spirit after crazy 5-3 win over Croatia

Spain manager Luis Enrique made two changes to his starting lineup for their Euro 2020 last 16 clash with Croatia from the side that hammered Slovakia 5-0 in their final Group E match. 
 
Ferran Torres, who netted against the Slovakians, replaces Gerard Moreno upfront and will play alongside Alvaro Morata and Pablo Sarabia, while Jose Gaya comes into the left back slot instead of 32-year old stalwart Jordi Alba. 
 
Captain Sergio Busquets will continue to pull the strings in a three-man midfield including Koke and Pedri. 
 
Ante Rebic starts on the left flank for Croatia, replacing Ivan Perisic, who is in self-isolation after contracting COVID-19 following their 3-1 win over Scotland in the final Group D match. 
 
Duje Caleta-Car replaces the suspended Dejan Lovren in the centre of defence and attacking midfielder Nikola Vlasic gets the nod again as coach Zlatko Dalic deploys an adventurous formation to face the Spaniards. 
 
Teams: 
 
Croatia: Dominik Livakovic; Duje Caleta-Car, Domagoj Vida, Josip Juranovic, Josko Gvardiol; Mateo Kovacic, Luka Modric (captain), Marcelo Brozovic, Nikola Vlasic; Ante Rebic, Bruno Petkovic 
 
Spain: Unai Simon; Cesar Azpilicueta, Eric Garcia, Aymeric Laporte, Jose Gaya; Sergio Busquets (captain), Koke, Pedri; Pablo Sarabia, Alvaro Morata, Ferran Torres

Spain manager Luis Enrique made two changes to his starting lineup for their Euro 2020 last 16 clash with Croatia from the side that hammered Slovakia 5-0 in their final Group E match.

Spain manager Luis Enrique made two changes to his starting lineup for their Euro 2020 last 16 clash with Croatia from the side that hammered Slovakia 5-0 in their final Group E match. Ferran Torres, who netted against the Slovakians, replaces Gerard Moreno upfront and will play alongside Alvaro Morata and Pablo Sarabia, while Jose Gaya comes into the left back slot instead of 32-year old stalwart Jordi Alba. Captain Sergio Busquets will continue to pull the strings in a three-man midfield including Koke and Pedri. Ante Rebic starts on the left flank for Croatia, replacing Ivan Perisic, who is in self-isolation after contracting COVID-19 following their 3-1 win over Scotland in the final Group D match. Duje Caleta-Car replaces the suspended Dejan Lovren in the centre of defence and attacking midfielder Nikola Vlasic gets the nod again as coach Zlatko Dalic deploys an adventurous formation to face the Spaniards. Teams: Croatia: Dominik Livakovic; Duje Caleta-Car, Domagoj Vida, Josip Juranovic, Josko Gvardiol; Mateo Kovacic, Luka Modric (captain), Marcelo Brozovic, Nikola Vlasic; Ante Rebic, Bruno Petkovic Spain: Unai Simon; Cesar Azpilicueta, Eric Garcia, Aymeric Laporte, Jose Gaya; Sergio Busquets (captain), Koke, Pedri; Pablo Sarabia, Alvaro Morata, Ferran Torres

Euro 2020: Spain and Croatia make two changes each for last 16 clash

&nbsp;Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic was overjoyed to have steered his side into the Euro 2020 knockout stages after second-half goals from Luka Modric and Ivan Perisic helped them to a 3-1 Group D win over Scotland at Hampden Park on Tuesday.

Both teams needed a win to advance and after Callum McGregor cancelled out Nikola Vlasic's opener for the Croatians, Modric netted a superb long-range effort before Perisic sealed the win with a glancing header.

It was a much-improved performance by the 2018 World Cup runners-up after tepid displays in a 1-0 defeat by England and a 1-1 draw with the Czech Republic.

"Congratulations to the lads for an effervescent performance that propelled us into the knockout rounds and we will now be ready for whoever comes our way in the last 16," Dalic told a news conference.

"The most important thing is that we will be able to have our fans back because we are much stronger with them roaring us on from the terraces."

The Croatians, who face the Group E runners-up in Copenhagen on Monday, were cheered on by only a handful of fans in London and Glasgow as COVID-19 quarantine rules deterred many from making the trip to Britain.

With Croatian media speculating that Dalic would have been sacked if the team had suffered an early exit, the 54-year-old coach was relieved that his players delivered their best performance when it mattered.

"We were compact and although we let Scotland back into the game late in the first half, we talked things over at halftime and never lost our heads," he said.

"It was a matter of time before we scored the second and what a fantastic goal by Luka, it's amazing how he keeps going a at this level. I am proud to have him as the team captain."

Modric was emotional after a fine individual display reminiscent of his performances in the 2018 World Cup.

"After tonight's performance, we'd have been able to walk off the pitch with our heads high even if we had lost," he told Croatia's HRT state television broadcaster.

"The goal I scored means a lot to me and I am glad it helped us win, but the most important thing is that the whole team looked the part."

Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic was overjoyed to have steered his side into the Euro 2020 knockout stages after second-half goals from Luka Modric and Ivan Perisic helped them to a 3-1 Group D win over Scotland at Hampden Park on Tuesday.

Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic was overjoyed to have steered his side into the Euro 2020 knockout stages after second-half goals from Luka Modric and Ivan Perisic helped them to a 3-1 Group D win over Scotland at Hampden Park on Tuesday. Both teams needed a win to advance and after Callum McGregor cancelled out Nikola Vlasic's opener for the Croatians, Modric netted a superb long-range effort before Perisic sealed the win with a glancing header. It was a much-improved performance by the 2018 World Cup runners-up after tepid displays in a 1-0 defeat by England and a 1-1 draw with the Czech Republic. "Congratulations to the lads for an effervescent performance that propelled us into the knockout rounds and we will now be ready for whoever comes our way in the last 16," Dalic told a news conference. "The most important thing is that we will be able to have our fans back because we are much stronger with them roaring us on from the terraces." The Croatians, who face the Group E runners-up in Copenhagen on Monday, were cheered on by only a handful of fans in London and Glasgow as COVID-19 quarantine rules deterred many from making the trip to Britain. With Croatian media speculating that Dalic would have been sacked if the team had suffered an early exit, the 54-year-old coach was relieved that his players delivered their best performance when it mattered. "We were compact and although we let Scotland back into the game late in the first half, we talked things over at halftime and never lost our heads," he said. "It was a matter of time before we scored the second and what a fantastic goal by Luka, it's amazing how he keeps going a at this level. I am proud to have him as the team captain." Modric was emotional after a fine individual display reminiscent of his performances in the 2018 World Cup. "After tonight's performance, we'd have been able to walk off the pitch with our heads high even if we had lost," he told Croatia's HRT state television broadcaster. "The goal I scored means a lot to me and I am glad it helped us win, but the most important thing is that the whole team looked the part."

Football: Dalic delighted as Croatia step up to reach last 16 at Euro 2020

In a strange development, a town in northern Croatia, Legrad, is selling its abandoned houses for one kuna, which is 11.83 in Indian rupees. This is because of a drastic fall in the population of the town.&nbsp;

Legrad was once the second-biggest population centre in Croatian territory. However, the population rate was deeply affected after the disintegration of the Austro-Hungarian Empire a century ago. This was also when new borders left it sidelined.

<img alt="Croatian town Legrad" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bf7e91a7-4311-4d2e-8e81-c929c600da6f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/2021-06-11T105554Z_2_LYNXNPEH5A0IT_RTROPTP_3_CROATIA-LIFE.JPG" />

Image: Reuters

Town's Mayor, Ivan Sabolic said, "We turned into a border town with few transport connections to other places. Since then the population has been gradually falling".&nbsp;

The fascinating deal comes with a few conditions. People who wish to settle in this town must be financially solvent and under the age of 40. They also need to commit to staying at least 15 years.

<a href="https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/this-croatian-town-is-selling-houses-at-rs-12-here-is-the-reason-101623513749714.html">Also Read |&nbsp;Chicago man jumps into Lake Michigan for 365th straight day</a>

As per Sabolic, the offer had attracted lots of interest from abroad.&nbsp;

The town is a perfect fit for all nature lovers as it is surrounded by green fields and forests. It shares borders with Hungary and has around 2,250 inhabitants. This is just 50 percent of the people that lived here 70 years ago.&nbsp;As of now, 17 properties have been sold. The houses on offer are not in a good state. Some are half-ruins with doors and windows missing and their walls covered with mould.

The municipality has promised an amount of 25,000 kuna towards any refurbishments needed, and for new residents wishing to buy a privately-owned home. As per the mayor, The town will cover 20 percent of the price or up to 35,000 kuna.&nbsp;

In a strange development, a town in northern Croatia, Legrad, is selling its abandoned houses for one kuna, which is 11.83 in Indian rupees. This is because of a drastic fall in the population of the town.

In a strange development, a town in northern Croatia, Legrad, is selling its abandoned houses for one kuna, which is 11.83 in Indian rupees. This is because of a drastic fall in the population of the town. Legrad was once the second-biggest population centre in Croatian territory. However, the population rate was deeply affected after the disintegration of the Austro-Hungarian Empire a century ago. This was also when new borders left it sidelined. Image: Reuters Town's Mayor, Ivan Sabolic said, "We turned into a border town with few transport connections to other places. Since then the population has been gradually falling". The fascinating deal comes with a few conditions. People who wish to settle in this town must be financially solvent and under the age of 40. They also need to commit to staying at least 15 years. Also Read | Chicago man jumps into Lake Michigan for 365th straight day As per Sabolic, the offer had attracted lots of interest from abroad. The town is a perfect fit for all nature lovers as it is surrounded by green fields and forests. It shares borders with Hungary and has around 2,250 inhabitants. This is just 50 percent of the people that lived here 70 years ago. As of now, 17 properties have been sold. The houses on offer are not in a good state. Some are half-ruins with doors and windows missing and their walls covered with mould. The municipality has promised an amount of 25,000 kuna towards any refurbishments needed, and for new residents wishing to buy a privately-owned home. As per the mayor, The town will cover 20 percent of the price or up to 35,000 kuna.

Croatian town Legrad selling houses for less than $1. Here is all you need to know

The Croatian government proposed Thursday amendments to the country's criminal code to make "revenge pornography" a criminal act, a move hailed by the women's rights group which initiated the move.

Sharing online sexually explicit images made with consent and for private use, by a former partner without their ex's approval will be punishable with up to three years in jail, according to the amendments that need to be adopted by lawmakers.

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So-called deepfake porn, in which technology is used to fake or manipulate images , will be included in the same category, the government decided at a session.

The move was hailed by the B.a.B.e. women's rights group which initiated it and launched an online petition 'Stop revenge pornography' signed by nearly 10,000 people in little over a month.

The association in April opened an advisory centre for women facing online attacks and has so far received 12 reports on revenge porn, its coordinator Dean Sarcevic said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/german-police-smash-darknet-child-porn-network-with-400000-members-382521">German police smash darknet child porn network with 400,000 members</a>

"This is only a tip of an iceberg," he told AFP, adding that the group had also received dozens of anonymous reports of revenge porn.

Earlier this month the European Union member country launched a campaign to stop domestic violence against women, as it saw a 30-percent surge in the number of cases in 2020 compared with the previous year.

The Croatian government proposed Thursday amendments to the country's criminal code to make "revenge pornography" a criminal act, a move hailed by the women's rights group which initiated the move.

The Croatian government proposed Thursday amendments to the country's criminal code to make "revenge pornography" a criminal act, a move hailed by the women's rights group which initiated the move. Sharing online sexually explicit images made with consent and for private use, by a former partner without their ex's approval will be punishable with up to three years in jail, according to the amendments that need to be adopted by lawmakers. Also read | Rising cases of sexual harassment in UK schools alarming So-called deepfake porn, in which technology is used to fake or manipulate images , will be included in the same category, the government decided at a session. The move was hailed by the B.a.B.e. women's rights group which initiated it and launched an online petition 'Stop revenge pornography' signed by nearly 10,000 people in little over a month. The association in April opened an advisory centre for women facing online attacks and has so far received 12 reports on revenge porn, its coordinator Dean Sarcevic said. Also read | German police smash darknet child porn network with 400,000 members "This is only a tip of an iceberg," he told AFP, adding that the group had also received dozens of anonymous reports of revenge porn. Earlier this month the European Union member country launched a campaign to stop domestic violence against women, as it saw a 30-percent surge in the number of cases in 2020 compared with the previous year.

Croatia moves to sanction 'revenge porn'

Coach Zlatko Dalic was confident Croatia would make an impact at Euro 2020 despite a lackluster performance in Sunday's 1-0 defeat by Belgium in their final warm-up for the June 11-July 11 tournaments featuring 24 nations.

The Croatians have recently looked a pale shadow of the side that finished runners-up at the 2018 World Cup and following a 1-1 home draw with Armenia on Tuesday, they were fortunate not to concede more goals against Belgium.

Dalic was nevertheless adamant that his side would be ready for their opening Group D clash with England at Wembley on Sunday.

"I am sure the English will be very aggressive from the start and we have to keep them at bay," Dalic told Croatia's Nova television after Romelu Lukaku gave the Belgians victory with his 60th international goal.

"We played a good match and held our own. We didn't create enough chances but we've made progress as the side looked much more compact than they did in recent games. The performance is encouraging."

Belgium missed a string of chances to win by a bigger margin as Lukaku and Yannick Carrasco hit the woodwork while Croatia keeper Dominik Livakovic pulled off several fine saves.

Dalic acknowledged the Croatians still had work to do in order to be on top of their game against England.

"We need more vertical passes, shots on goal, and players making runs into the penalty area," he said.

"There were segments I didn't like against Belgium but I'll keep that for the locker room and sort it out with the players."

Croatia also faces the Czech Republic at Hampden Park on June 18 and takes on Scotland at the same venue four days later.

Coach Zlatko Dalic was confident Croatia would make an impact at Euro 2020 despite a lackluster performance in Sunday's 1-0 defeat by Belgium in their final warm-up for the June 11-July 11 tournaments featuring 24 nations.

Coach Zlatko Dalic was confident Croatia would make an impact at Euro 2020 despite a lackluster performance in Sunday's 1-0 defeat by Belgium in their final warm-up for the June 11-July 11 tournaments featuring 24 nations. The Croatians have recently looked a pale shadow of the side that finished runners-up at the 2018 World Cup and following a 1-1 home draw with Armenia on Tuesday, they were fortunate not to concede more goals against Belgium. Dalic was nevertheless adamant that his side would be ready for their opening Group D clash with England at Wembley on Sunday. "I am sure the English will be very aggressive from the start and we have to keep them at bay," Dalic told Croatia's Nova television after Romelu Lukaku gave the Belgians victory with his 60th international goal. "We played a good match and held our own. We didn't create enough chances but we've made progress as the side looked much more compact than they did in recent games. The performance is encouraging." Belgium missed a string of chances to win by a bigger margin as Lukaku and Yannick Carrasco hit the woodwork while Croatia keeper Dominik Livakovic pulled off several fine saves. Dalic acknowledged the Croatians still had work to do in order to be on top of their game against England. "We need more vertical passes, shots on goal, and players making runs into the penalty area," he said. "There were segments I didn't like against Belgium but I'll keep that for the locker room and sort it out with the players." Croatia also faces the Czech Republic at Hampden Park on June 18 and takes on Scotland at the same venue four days later.

Football: Coach Zlatko Dalic unfazed by Croatia's defeat by Belgium

Europe-bound migrants are been bottlenecked in Bosnia, with the hope of entering through Croatia one day. Currently, about 8000 migrants stranded bound to live in harsh conditions. Wion brings you more details.

Europe-bound migrants are been bottlenecked in Bosnia

6.4 magnitude earthquake rocked the country now at least 7 people have been killed and the authorities expect death toll to rise. The army has also been deployed to help with search and relief operation.

6.4 magnitude earthquake jolts Petrinja town in Croatia

Six people were rescued from the rubble with the help of dogs, Croatia's Mountain Rescue Service said.

Stong 6.4 magnitude earthquake hits central Croatia; Shockwaves felt in Serbia, Bosnia

European countries are rushing to contain spread of Bird Flu as the continent continues to battle coronavirus pandemic. Thousands of chickens are being culled in several countries. Public Health England (PHE) has said that H5N8 strain of the bird flu is unlikely to risk public health but precautions are being taken across the continent.

An outbreak of H5N8 avian influenza was reported on a farm in northern Croatia, the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) said on Wednesday.

The outbreak in the Koprivnicko-Krizevacka county killed 4,315 birds, the OIE said, quoting information from Croatia's agriculture ministry.

Poland will cull over 900,000 hens in a farm in western Poland due to a bird flu outbreak which was discovered on Tuesday evening, state news agency PAP quoted local veterinary authorities as saying.

The H5N8 bird flu outbreak in the village of Wroniawy is the 33rd one in Poland this year, said PAP citing the Chief Veterinary Inspectorate data.

"It is a farm of 930,000 laying hens. ... A canal runs behind the farm, there are also fields nearby, with geese and other wild birds," PAP quoted local veterinary authorities as saying. It added that the cull will start on Thursday and may continue for up to six days.

Poland's Chief Veterinary Inspectorate and local veterinary services were not immediately available to comment.

Risk to humans from the disease is considered low, but past outbreaks among farm birds have required extensive slaughtering programmes to contain them.

On last Sunday, almost 200,000 chickens were culled in the Netherlands.

(With Agency&nbsp;inputs)

European countries are rushing to contain spread of Bird Flu as the continent continues to battle coronavirus pandemic. Thousands of chickens are being culled in several countries.

European countries are rushing to contain spread of Bird Flu as the continent continues to battle coronavirus pandemic. Thousands of chickens are being culled in several countries. Public Health England (PHE) has said that H5N8 strain of the bird flu is unlikely to risk public health but precautions are being taken across the continent. An outbreak of H5N8 avian influenza was reported on a farm in northern Croatia, the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) said on Wednesday. The outbreak in the Koprivnicko-Krizevacka county killed 4,315 birds, the OIE said, quoting information from Croatia's agriculture ministry. Poland will cull over 900,000 hens in a farm in western Poland due to a bird flu outbreak which was discovered on Tuesday evening, state news agency PAP quoted local veterinary authorities as saying. The H5N8 bird flu outbreak in the village of Wroniawy is the 33rd one in Poland this year, said PAP citing the Chief Veterinary Inspectorate data. "It is a farm of 930,000 laying hens. ... A canal runs behind the farm, there are also fields nearby, with geese and other wild birds," PAP quoted local veterinary authorities as saying. It added that the cull will start on Thursday and may continue for up to six days. Poland's Chief Veterinary Inspectorate and local veterinary services were not immediately available to comment. Risk to humans from the disease is considered low, but past outbreaks among farm birds have required extensive slaughtering programmes to contain them. On last Sunday, almost 200,000 chickens were culled in the Netherlands. (With Agency inputs)

Bird flu in Europe: Mass culling of chickens underway to stop outbreak

A Croatian court on Friday sentenced former prime minister Ivo Sanader to eight years in jail for syphoning millions of euros from public funds in a long-running corruption case.

Sanader, who led Croatia into NATO during his 2003-2009 spell in office, organised a plot with other officials to "acquire significant financial gain" for himself and to finance their HDZ party, which was also accused in the case, the Zagreb court ruled.

Sanader directed embezzlement involving illegal donations and fictitious deals involving state-run firms, according to the verdict.&nbsp;

The former prime minister, currently serving a prison sentence for another corruption case, will also be required to pay 15.8 million kunas (two million euros, $2.5 million) once the verdict becomes final.

The conservative HDZ, which is still in power, was "responsible" for the crime and must pay some two million euros to the state budget, judge Irena Kvaternik said.

Of three other HDZ officials on trial, two were convicted and jailed and the other was acquitted.&nbsp;

The party said in a statement it rejected "any collective responsibility" and said it would appeal the ruling.

Sanader was first sentenced to nine years in jail for this case in 2014, in what was the first trial of its kind against a Croatian political party.

But the top court scrapped the ruling citing violations of criminal proceedings.

During the retrial all the defendants pleaded not guilty.

Since 2019 Sanader has been serving a six-year sentence for a separate corruption conviction and faces a slew of other allegations.

The 67-year-old did not attend Friday's hearing as he is recovering from surgery.

A Croatian court on Friday sentenced former prime minister Ivo Sanader to eight years in jail for syphoning millions of euros from public funds in a long-running corruption case.

A Croatian court on Friday sentenced former prime minister Ivo Sanader to eight years in jail for syphoning millions of euros from public funds in a long-running corruption case. Sanader, who led Croatia into NATO during his 2003-2009 spell in office, organised a plot with other officials to "acquire significant financial gain" for himself and to finance their HDZ party, which was also accused in the case, the Zagreb court ruled. Sanader directed embezzlement involving illegal donations and fictitious deals involving state-run firms, according to the verdict. The former prime minister, currently serving a prison sentence for another corruption case, will also be required to pay 15.8 million kunas (two million euros, $2.5 million) once the verdict becomes final. The conservative HDZ, which is still in power, was "responsible" for the crime and must pay some two million euros to the state budget, judge Irena Kvaternik said. Of three other HDZ officials on trial, two were convicted and jailed and the other was acquitted. The party said in a statement it rejected "any collective responsibility" and said it would appeal the ruling. Sanader was first sentenced to nine years in jail for this case in 2014, in what was the first trial of its kind against a Croatian political party. But the top court scrapped the ruling citing violations of criminal proceedings. During the retrial all the defendants pleaded not guilty. Since 2019 Sanader has been serving a six-year sentence for a separate corruption conviction and faces a slew of other allegations. The 67-year-old did not attend Friday's hearing as he is recovering from surgery.

Croatia jails ex-PM for running embezzlement network

Hundreds of protesters gathered in central Zagreb on Sunday to demonstrate against measures imposed by the government to tackle the coronavirus, claiming that the pandemic was a scam.

Hundreds rally in Zagreb against virus restrictions

In just 15 years, Croatia's Istrian peninsula in the northern Adriatic has become one of the world's best producers of olive oil, decorated with top industry awards.

Croatia's Istria is now producing some of the world's best olive oil

Professional windsurfing made its return following an extended break due to the coronavirus pandemic, with five days of racing which concluded on Saturday (July 18) in the opening Croatian leg of the PWA Windsurfing Tour's rescheduled calendar.

Professional windsurfing returns with event in Croatia

A video has resurfaced that featured Germany and Bayern Munich captain Manuel Neuer singing a Croatian song which has right-wing nationalist links during a holiday.

A video has resurfaced that featured Germany and Bayern Munich captain Manuel Neuer singing a Croatian song which has right-wing nationalist links during a holiday. Also read: Tottenham Hotspur defender Serge Aurier's brother shot dead in Toulouse In the video, the 34-year-old is seen singing "Lijepa li si" (You are beautiful) by controversial Croatian singer Marko Perkovic, known as 'Thompson' near a beachside bar among a group of people. Manuel Neuer singing "Lijepa Li Si" is a unique thing to see. Maybe he's preparing for the Eternal Derby? 🤨 pic.twitter.com/rXbEnNMARQ — 🇭🇷Croatian Football🇭🇷 (@CroatiaFooty) July 12, 2020 × Marko Perkovic is known for sympathizing with Croatia's World War II pro-Nazi regime, earned the nickname 'Thompson' that was the brand of weapon he carried during the Croatian war of independence in the early 1990s. 'Lijepa li si' is a patriotic song that mentions Herceg-Bosnia, which Zagreb-backed Bosnian Croats self-proclaimed as a statelet during Bosnia's 1990s war and which they had hoped would eventually merge with Croatia. The world-class goalkeeper has not yet commented on the video but as per his personal manager, the player does not speak Croatian. Neuer is on a vacation with his friend and Bayern Munich goalkeeping coach Toni Tapalovic on the Dalmatian coast on the Adriatic Sea. A press officer from Bayern Munich declined to comment when contacted by AFP. Neuer's managers were not immediately available for comment. According to Magazine Focus, Neuer was "naive to think" the clip would not emerge in the media. At the same time, "assuming that with this song Neuer supports Croatian nationalist ideas would be a little too far-reaching", it said. (Inputs from AFP)

Watch: Germany captain Manuel Neuer filmed singing song by controversial Croatian nationalist

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