Signing of the Stabilization and Association Agreement with Croatia

On October 29, 2001, Croatia took a step towards final accession to the European Union. The Stabilization and Association Agreement provides for the creation of a free trade area between Croatia and the Union in goods and services within six years, regional cooperation and political dialogue. It also commits Croatia to align its legislation with EU legislation and standards. Croatia thus has an official, contractual relationship with the European Union for the first time in its history.