In a significant political response, Croatian Member of the European Parliament (MEP) Stjepo Bartulica voiced strong opposition to remarks made by Italian MEP Stefano Cavedagna of the Brothers of Italy party, who participated in a march in Bologna that showcased a banner claiming "Istria, Rijeka, and Dalmatia are Italian lands". This event took place during the Day of Remembrance for the victims of the Foibe massacres, commemorating historical injustices towards Italians during and after World War II. Bartulica's response highlights the sensitive nature of post-war national identities and territorial claims in the region.

Bartulica declared that Istria, Rijeka, and Dalmatia have always been, and will always be, part of Croatia, stressing the necessity for Croatia to foster positive and friendly relations with its neighbors based on mutual trust. He emphasized that truth must prevail over ideology, signaling a desire for reconciliation that recognizes historical traumas while also asserting national integrity. This reflects a broader struggle within both Croatian and Italian societies as they navigate their shared, yet contentious, history.

The involvement of Cavedagna in this march and the sentiments expressed by members of the Brothers of Italy indicate a resurgence of nationalistic rhetoric in Italian politics, which poses potential challenges to diplomatic relations between Croatia and Italy. Bartulica's call for a future based on truth and memory suggests an attempt to address the past constructively while striving for a cooperative European framework, urging both nations to heal through mutual understanding amidst historical grievances.