India and Croatia to Develop Long-term Strategies for Strengthening Defence Relations

Both parties consented to create a comprehensive Defence Cooperation Plan that encompasses:

Combined military exercises.

Staff exchanges.

Partnerships for defense at the industry level.

Focus on collaboration in cybersecurity and defense manufacturing.

Agreements formalized on Agriculture, Cultural Exchange, Science & Technology, and the establishment of an ICCR Chair of Hindi in Zagreb.

India-EU FTA: Croatia and India have talked about the long-delayed India-EU Free Trade Agreement.

Croatia has reaffirmed its robust backing for the prompt finalization of the FTA.

Investment: Dedication to boosting investment in Croatia's essential sectors, such as pharmaceuticals, agriculture, information technology, clean tech, digital technology, and semiconductors.

Cultural and academic exchanges: Educational institutions from each nation would engage in collaborative research initiatives.

The two parties concluded a five-year strategy for cultural exchange initiatives, formalising the connections between individuals.

Improved mobility and diplomatic relations: India and Croatia are set to “soon” finalize a mobility pact to ease the travel of individuals between the two nations.

This pact is anticipated to enhance tourism, educational interactions, and business collaboration.

Collaboration in Space and Academia: Cooperative efforts in space projects revealed.

India will share its space knowledge with Croatia.

Importance of the Involvement

Evolving European Strategy: PM Modi’s trip signifies India’s growing engagement with Europe, extending beyond its conventional Western allies.

The emphasis is on newer EU nations such as Croatia that impact the consensus-based decision-making of the EU.

Significance of Croatia in India's Strategic Perspective: Croatia's neutral position on significant global disputes and readiness for technological collaboration resonate with India's principles.

Croatia's limited reliance on China and its doubts about BRI position it perfectly for India's aspiration of democratic, sustainable growth.

Eastern & Central Europe Access: Croatia is bordered by Hungary, Slovenia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, and Serbia.

Enhancing connections provides access to Central European markets and developing industries.

Strengthens India's influence in the Balkans and Central Europe.

Maritime and Logistics Importance: Croatia sits on the eastern Adriatic coastline, serving as a vital maritime access point to Europe.

Strategic for India during Red Sea/Suez disturbances and global supply chain realignment.

Role in the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC): Croatia seen as an essential hub in the IMEC trade route.

Provides different trade paths to Central and Eastern Europe avoiding conventional Western European harbors.

Impact in EU and NATO: Croatia is a complete member of both the EU and NATO, enhancing its institutional significance.

Gives India indirect entry to European regulatory frameworks and policy discussions.

Backs India’s FTA with the EU; essential for resolving FTA negotiation hurdles.

Diplomatic Coordination and Multilateral Endorsement: Croatia backs India's quest for permanent membership in the UNSC.

India's stance on Jammu and Kashmir (hands-off strategy).

Serves as a reliable and steady ally, in contrast to certain larger EU nations.

In conclusion

The trip signifies a fresh phase in India's diplomacy with Europe. Based on common values, reciprocal respect, and complementary skills. Illustrates that minor yet significant countries can play a crucial role in India's multipolar global approach.