Newzville International
Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a historic visit to Croatia. PM Modi and his Croatian counterpart Andrej Plenković held delegation-level talks in Zagreb on 18 June 2025.
Following the talks at the historic Banski Dvori palace, India and Croatia signed four Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) in the presence of both leaders, marking a significant step forward in bilateral relations during the first-ever visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Croatia.
The first MoU focuses on cooperation in the field of agriculture and allied sectors. The second is a general framework agreement for cooperation for the years 2026-2030. The third MoU outlines a Programme of Cooperation in Science and Technology between the Ministry of Science, Education and Youth of Croatia and India’s Ministry of Science and Technology, for the period 2025-2029. The fourth agreement, signed between the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) and the University of Zagreb, establishes an ICCR Chair of Hindi at the university.
On this occasion, both leaders issued a joint press statement. Prime Minister Modi emphasized shared global concerns and outlined key areas for deepening bilateral cooperation between India and Croatia. He underscored the importance of peaceful conflict resolution, stating, whether in Europe or Asia, solutions cannot be found on the battlefield. Dialogue and diplomacy are the only viable paths forward. He also stressed the importance of respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations.
The Prime Minister reiterated that terrorism is the enemy of humanity and poses a threat to democratic societies worldwide. He extended heartfelt thanks to Prime Minister Plenković and the Croatian government for their condolences following the terrorist attack in India on 22nd April, appreciating Croatia’s solidarity during a difficult time.
The two leaders agreed to expand bilateral trade and build reliable supply chains.
Prime Minister Modi announced enhanced cooperation in a range of areas, including pharmaceuticals, agriculture, information technology, clean and digital technologies, renewable energy, and semiconductors. He added that cooperation will also be strengthened in shipbuilding and cybersecurity.
In the defence sector, both countries will formulate a long-term Defence Cooperation Plan, focusing on joint training, military exchanges, and collaboration between their defence industries.
Prime Minister Modi highlighted the shared values that underpin India-Croatia relations, democracy, the rule of law, pluralism, and equality. He expressed confidence in the growing friendship between the two countries, built on these common principles.
PM Modi also acknowledged the widespread popularity of yoga in Croatia and praised the local enthusiasm. Looking ahead to International Yoga Day on 21st of this month, he expressed confidence that, as in previous years, the people of Croatia would celebrate the day with great zeal.
Prime Minister Modi’s remarks reinforced the deepening ties between India and Croatia and reflected a shared commitment to global peace, democratic values, and mutual growth.
Modi arrived in Zagreb this afternoon in a historic first-ever visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Croatia, marking a new chapter in bilateral relations. The Croatian Prime Minister received Mr Modi at the Franjo Tuđman Airport. At his arrival he has been welcomed with traditional cultural performances. During the ceremonial reception, Croatian kids welcomed him with Namaste greetings, Croatian group of spiritual people chanted vedic mantras and native dancers performed Kathak Nritya. Modi met the Indian diaspora and Croatian friend of India.
