Prime Minister Narendra Modi has wrapped up his three-nation tour, concluding with a landmark visit to Croatia—the first-ever by an Indian Prime Minister—marking a significant chapter in strengthening bilateral ties.
Beginning his journey in Cyprus, followed by participation in the G7 Summit in Canada, PM Modi’s final stop was Croatia, where he was warmly received by the government and people. His visit, though brief, was packed with high-level meetings and cultural engagements that deepened Indo-Croatian cooperation across several sectors.
“Grateful to the people and Government of Croatia for the warm welcome during what has been a truly landmark visit,” PM Modi posted on X. “This visit ushers in a new chapter in our shared journey of friendship and extensive cooperation.”
In Zagreb, PM Modi met with Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic, where the two leaders held comprehensive discussions covering defence, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, information technology, and renewable energy. He also announced the formulation of a Defence Cooperation Plan aimed at long-term military collaboration, training, and industry exchange.
PM Modi highlighted synergies in shipbuilding, semiconductors, and connectivity, and called for boosting bilateral trade through reliable supply chains. “We have decided to speed up our bilateral relations three times in our third term,” he said, emphasizing India’s intent to partner with Croatia in clean tech, digital innovation, and space research.
Cultural and academic ties were also reinforced, with the extension of the MoU for the Hindi Chair at Zagreb University till 2030 and the signing of a five-year cultural exchange programme. A mobility agreement to facilitate easier movement of people between the two nations is also in the works.
Expressing heartfelt appreciation for the hospitality extended to him, PM Modi remarked, “This is the first visit of any Indian Prime Minister to Croatia, and I have had the good fortune of it.”
He also drew attention to the shared democratic values between the two nations and the parallel third-term mandates both leaders recently received from their respective citizens.
The ceremonial welcome in Zagreb and a city tour led by PM Plenkovic underscored the warmth of the bilateral relationship. Modi’s visit not only marked a diplomatic milestone but also laid a robust foundation for deepening India-Croatia engagement across multiple spheres.
PM Modi has now departed for India, concluding a strategically important tour that showcased India’s growing global outreach and deepening ties with key international partners.
