Croatia is getting ready to join the EU in 2010, and they are working on aligning their regional policy with EU standards. They are focusing on using EU funds to reduce disparities between regions and boost competitiveness. The government needs to strengthen its institutions to manage these funds effectively. A national strategy for regional development is being put in place to guide this effort. It's important for Croatia to make sure their laws and policies match those of the EU to smoothly implement regional policies. The goal is to balance development across different regions and counties in Croatia.