India and Croatia have agreed to develop a long-term defence cooperation plan after talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Croatian counterpart, Andrej Plenkovic, in Zagreb on Wednesday. The discussion was also made on boosting ties across trade, strategic connectivity, and including the India-Middle East-Europe economic Corridor (IMEC).
PM Modi, who visited Croatia from Canada during the final leg of his three-nation trip, emphasised the mutual commitment to democratic values and peaceful diplomacy.
He said that both nations will “work closely in areas such as defence and security, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, IT, renewable energy, technology, and more. Synergies in fields like semiconductors, shipbuilding, connectivity” among others.
“We both support the fact that whether it is Europe or Asia, the solution to problems does not come from the battlefield. Dialogue and diplomacy are the only way. Respect for the territorial integrity and sovereignty of any country is necessary,” he stated during a joint media address.
He also said that “indology is popular in Croatia for decades”, before adding, “Tourism can also be an excellent sector for bringing our nations closer together. I’m pleased to see that yoga is becoming increasingly popular among people here.”
The two nations are committed to making advancements in defence ties by organising joint training programmes, military exchanges and cooperation in the defence manufacturing field.
Stronger bilateral ties in tech, energy and trade
The leaders also talked about strengthening bilateral ties in several fields like semiconductors, agriculture, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, cyber-security, shipbuilding and clean and digital technologies. PM Modi mentioned, “We have decided to enhance cooperation in many areas to increase bilateral trade and create reliable supply chains.”
Both nations also plan to complete a mobility agreement soon to facilitate the smoother movement of people. This initiative has been considered crucial for building workforce exchange and boosting collaboration in education.
PM Modi thanked the Croatian government for standing in solidarity with India on the April 22 terror attack in India. “In such a difficult time, the support of our friendly countries was very valuable to us,” he stated.
The Ministry of External Affairs termed the ties with Croatia as a potential gateway for India into Central and Southeastern Europe. Both leaders also delve into future partnership opportunities in sectors like tourism, infrastructure, AI and ports. They also talk over climate change, terrorism and reforms in the global institutions, including the United Nations.
The Prime Minister also had a meeting with Croatian President Zoran Milanovic, where both sides restated their joint commitment to deepening partnerships.
PM Modi was greeted by Indian community members with chants of “Vande Mataram” and “Bharat Mata ki Jai” in Croatia.
The bonds of culture are strong and vibrant! Here is a part of the welcome in Zagreb. Happy to see Indian culture has so much respect in Croatia… pic.twitter.com/G749A952wP
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 18, 2025
“The Indian community in Croatia has contributed to Croatia’s progress while also staying connected to its roots in India. In Zagreb, I met and interacted with some members of the Indian community, who gave me an unforgettable welcome. There is immense enthusiasm among the Indian community here about this visit and its impact in strengthening the bond between our nations like never before!” PM Modi wrote on X.