(ANSA) - BRUSSELS, OCT. 20 - ''I am confident that, through your commitment and your professionalism, Croatia will continue to enhance its position as a reliable partner to face the many challenges that Europe is facing'', the European council president Donald Tusk said in a letter addressed to conservative Andrej Plenkovic, congratulating you on his appointment as Croatia's prime minister.

''I have no doubt the knowledge and understanding of the European Union you acquired while you were experiencing your previous roles will help you in this process, with very positive results'', Tusk continued, referring to Plenkovic's career as MEP and diplomat.

The European commission president, Jean-Claude Juncker, also congratuled Plenkovic. According to Juncker, the newly appointed prime minister, during his term at the European Parliament ''has already proved his credentials as a firm supporter of European values''. (ANSA).