Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Croatia on June 18, 2025, marks a historic moment as the first-ever visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the Balkan nation since the establishment of formal relations in 1992. This visit is a significant step towards strengthening bilateral ties and exploring new avenues for cooperation between India and Croatia. The visit underscores India's growing engagement with Eastern Europe and its strategic interest in the region.
PM Modi's agenda in Croatia includes meetings with Croatian President Zoran Milanovic and Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic. These high-level discussions are expected to cover a wide range of issues, including bilateral trade, maritime cooperation, regional security, EU-India relations, innovation partnerships, and cultural exchange. Both countries are keen to transform their relationship into a more strategic and dynamic partnership. Several agreements are expected to be signed during the visit, focusing on science and technology, agriculture, culture, and education. These agreements aim to catalyze collaboration across key sectors and foster deeper understanding between the two nations.
One of the key focus areas of the visit is to enhance economic cooperation between India and Croatia. While the current trade volume is moderate, there is a growing interest from both sides to expand trade and investment opportunities. In 2023, bilateral trade reached approximately USD 337.68 million, with India exporting medicines, chemicals, machinery, apparel, and engineering products, and importing precision instruments, foodstuffs, and wood products from Croatia. Discussions during the visit are likely to focus on reducing non-tariff barriers, easing regulatory pathways, and encouraging cooperation between startups and SMEs. Croatia sees India as a high-growth market for sophisticated manufacturing and intelligent energy technologies, while Indian companies view Croatia as a gateway to Europe.
Cultural ties between India and Croatia are deeply rooted and span centuries, with shared interests in Sanskrit, yoga, and civilizational knowledge. To further strengthen these ties, the two countries are set to promote parliamentary exchanges and hold cultural festivals. A new Cultural Exchange Program until 2030 is planned, covering music, dance, theatre, cultural heritage, libraries, museums, archaeology, audio-visual media, and festivals. In addition, an agreement includes the extension of the Hindi Chair at the University of Zagreb in Croatia, promoting India's linguistic and educational outreach.
Croatia's role as a member of the European Union (EU) is also a significant aspect of PM Modi's visit. Discussions are expected to address the EU-India Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which is currently under negotiation. Croatia's support is crucial in facilitating India's engagement with the EU and achieving a balanced and favorable FTA. The proposed India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), a railway and maritime route linking the regions, is another key area of discussion. This ambitious project is seen as a potential counter to China's Belt and Road Initiative and could significantly boost trade and connectivity between India and Europe.
Furthermore, India and Croatia share concerns about terrorism and extremism. Croatia, having experienced extremism and terrorism, deeply understands India's security concerns. India's policy of zero tolerance for terrorism has been praised in Croatia.
