India–Croatia Leaders’ Statement (June 18, 2025): A Historic Breakthrough

Introduction

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Croatia on 18 June 2025 marked a historic first in bilateral relations, symbolizing a fresh impetus towards deeper cooperation with the European Union’s newest member state.

Key Highlights

High-Level Engagements: Meetings with Croatian PM Andrej Plenković and President Zoran Milanović reaffirmed mutual commitment to democracy, rule of law, and pluralism.
Four Strategic Agreements:
- Agricultural Cooperation MoU
- Science & Technology Programme
- Cultural Exchange Programme
- Hindi Chair at University of Zagreb extended through 2030
Connectivity & Trade: Croatia seen as a "Mediterranean gateway" in the IMEC; support for India–EU Free Trade Agreement.
Defence & Security Cooperation: Long-term plan covering military exchange, industry collaboration, and anti-terror initiatives.
Science, Technology & Innovation: Startup Bridge and joint R&D with focus on AI, agri-tech, cleantech.
Culture & People-to-People Ties: Renewed Hindi Chair, cultural exchange programme (2026–2030).
Global & Regional Consensus: Calls for peace, UN reforms, and Indo-Pacific security.

Summary Table

Domain	Key Actions & Agreements
Political Values	Democracy, rule of law, pluralism
Trade & Connectivity	IMEC, India–EU FTA, Sagarmala opportunities
Defence & Security	MoU renewals, Defence Plan, terror finance crackdown
Science & Innovation	R&D MoUs, Startup Bridge, researcher mobility
Culture & Language	Hindi Chair, cultural exchanges, yoga promotion
Global Diplomacy	UN reform, maritime law, global conflict resolution

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Why is this visit historic?
It’s the first-ever visit by an Indian PM to Croatia, symbolizing unprecedented diplomatic outreach.

Q2: What are the implications of IMEC involvement?
Croatia is envisioned as India’s maritime gateway into Central Europe—facilitating trade through modern port infrastructure.

Q3: How will defending cooperation evolve?
The new plan includes regular military exchanges, defence industry partnerships, training initiatives.

Q4: How are science & startup collaborations structured?
Through joint R&D programmes, university linkages, youth research exchanges, and the “Startup Bridge” initiative.

Q5: What cultural initiatives are in store?
Extension of Hindi Chair, five-year cultural exchange plan, and Yoga Day celebrations.

Takeaways

Historic diplomatic milestone achieved through PM Modi’s visit.
Strategic agreements span agriculture, culture, science, and defence sectors.
Security cooperation landmarked, with strong anti-terror and global peace commitments.
Economic and innovation focus through IMEC and startup networks.
Cultural bridge-building through language, tradition, and diaspora engagement.