Image Credit: https://www.pmindia.gov.in/
Modi Makes Milestone Visit to Croatia, Strengthening European Ties
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived in Croatia, becoming the first Indian Prime Minister to ever visit the country. This historic visit marks the final leg of his three-nation diplomatic tour, following engagements in Cyprus and the G7 Summit in Canada. The visit underscores India’s increasing focus on strengthening bilateral relationships across Europe and diversifying its strategic alliances.
Modi’s Historic Arrival in Zagreb
Touching down in the Croatian capital Zagreb, Modi was received with ceremonial honours. His arrival was marked by traditional greetings and enthusiastic local participation, including students learning Hindi, who welcomed him with phrases such as “Bharat bahut sundar desh hai,” reflecting growing cultural curiosity and people-to-people ties.
The Prime Minister’s visit is being closely watched by both Indian and Croatian stakeholders, as it paves the way for high-level bilateral talks and the signing of multiple agreements across key sectors.
Deepening Indo-Croatian Cooperation
During the visit, Modi is expected to hold meetings with Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković and President Zoran Milanović. Four Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) are set to be signed, focusing on areas like agriculture, science and technology, cultural exchange, and education. Discussions are also expected to explore opportunities in trade, innovation, digital infrastructure, and renewable energy.
Both countries have expressed interest in building a framework that leverages historical cultural ties while pushing forward on technological and economic cooperation. The Prime Minister highlighted that India and Croatia share “centuries-old civilizational links,” which now need to be converted into contemporary, future-facing partnerships.
A Broader Diplomatic Strategy
Modi’s Croatia stop is seen as part of a larger strategic initiative by India to deepen its presence in Europe, particularly in smaller but geopolitically significant nations. This diplomatic outreach aligns with India’s goals under the Digital India and Make in India frameworks, while also promoting collaboration in green energy, disaster resilience, and higher education exchange.
By visiting Croatia, Modi not only opens a new chapter in bilateral relations but also demonstrates India’s broader commitment to building lasting partnerships across the European continent. His outreach reflects a vision where diplomacy, culture, innovation, and strategy converge—strengthening India’s global stature through engagement beyond traditional allies.
