The Croatian cabinet have given their approval for a joint bid with Hungary to host the 2012 European Championship, state news agency Hina reported on Thursday.
Croatia and Hungary hope to host two four-team groups each for the 16-team event, which is the second largest international soccer tournament behind the World Cup.
Government approval is one of the more important elements required for a successful bid.
The neighbouring countries will face tough competition from Italy and European champions Greece, while Poland and Ukraine are also considering a joint bid.
The deadline for bids is January 31 and European soccer's governing body UEFA will then draw up a short-list of three candidates in November before announcing the host country in December 2006.
Croatia would have to have four suitable stadiums for the tournament. The likely candidates are the cities of Zagreb, Split, Varazdin, Rijeka and Osijek.
Austria and Switzerland will co-host next European Championship in 2008.
Source: Reuters
21.01.2005