"The Commission has taken note of the verdict on the corruption cases 'INA-MOL' and 'Hypo Bank' involving former Prime Minister Ivo Sanader. The fight against corruption is one of the cornerstones of Rule of Law in any country. Croatia has made great strides in this area, with a solid legal framework and institutions. The Commission calls on Croatia to continue the fight against corruption on all levels, including at the highest ones, and to continue building a sustainable track record in this area," said Peter Stano, spokesman for Enlargement Commissioner Stefan Fuele.

Sanader was found guilty of war profiteering in the Hypo Alpe Adria Bank case and of bribe taking in the INA-MOL case and was sentenced to a single prison term of ten years. He has a right to appeal.