The recent meeting between the Foreign Ministers of India and Croatia has brought both nations into news headlines, shining a light on their historically friendly relationship and shared geopolitical interests. This article explores the highlights of their recent discussion, their mutual interests and opportunities for collaboration, and the history of India-Croatia relations.
Highlights of the India-Croatia Ministerial Meeting
During the meeting, both ministers acknowledged several common positions on major issues, including the situation in the Indo-Pacific region and Afghanistan, combating terrorism, and shared economic interests. They recognized tourism as a significant area of collaboration and expressed their commitment to enhance air connectivity between both nations, which is viewed as a means to foster closer relationships among their people.
The ministers also discussed potential opportunities in various sectors such as pharmaceuticals, digital technology, and infrastructure, specifically railways. Furthermore, they touched on several topics of mutual interest, such as EU-India relations, economic and cultural cooperation, and strategies for post-Covid recovery.
About India-Croatia Relations
Croatia, a Central European country, holds strategic importance due to its geographical location, its membership in the European Union and NATO, and its role as a gateway to Europe through the Adriatic coastline. Its relationship with India has been amicable since the days of Yugoslavia, of which Croatia was once a part.
The early 1990s saw a series of political upheavals and conflicts leading to the disintegration of Yugoslavia, giving rise to six new countries: Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Macedonia, Montenegro, Serbia, and Slovenia.
Historical Bonds between India and Croatia
Looking back at history, Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and Yugoslavia’s President Josip Broz Tito were pioneers of the Non-Aligned Movement, further fostering a positive relationship between India and the countries that emerged from Yugoslavia, including Croatia.
Moreover, Croatian people showcase a deep interest in Indian culture and heritage. This is evident from the longstanding Indology department at the University of Zagreb, which has been in operation for over six decades. Reflecting this mutual interest, an Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) Hindi chair was established at the University a decade ago, highlighting the cultural exchange and understanding between these two nations.
Looking Ahead: Future Opportunities
With their shared historical ties, common geopolitical interests, and budding economic collaborations, India and Croatia have ample opportunities to further strengthen their bilateral relations. The potential sectors for cooperation include tourism, pharmaceuticals, digital technology, infrastructure, and more. The recent ministerial meeting has effectively set the stage for continued dialogue and shared progress between these two nations.
Source: IE
