At the event in the Subotica City Hall, Piletić said €500,000 will be allocated for a support programme modelled on Croatia's "Make a wish" initiative, which aids the elderly, sick and disabled.
"This is a concrete measure to help our compatriots in Serbia, following many other projects supporting the construction and financing of kindergartens, cultural associations, and the Catholic Church. Just as we do in Bosnia and Herzegovina and other diaspora communities, we are carrying out similar programmes here," he said.
Piletić also addressed ongoing issues in Croatia-Serbia relations, including the ban on the opening of a Croatian kindergarten in Tavankut, calling them "fluctuating". He underlined the importance of dialogue with Serbian authorities to improve bilateral relations for the benefit of citizens in both countries.
Serbian Minister for Human and Minority Rights Demo Beriša affirmed that Serbia will ensure Croatian support measures fully reach the Croatian community in the country.
Jasna Vojnić, head of the Croatian National Council (HNV) in Serbia and Croatian MP, welcomed the presence of both Croatian and Serbian ministers at the celebration, highlighting the importance of positive bilateral relations for the new social programme.
Croatian Minority Day marks the anniversary of the first Croatian National Council election in Serbia, traditionally celebrated on 15 December.
The HNV is the representative body of Croats in Serbia, overseeing education, culture, media, and official use of the Croatian language.