Zagreb: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on June 18 conveyed heartfelt gratitude to Croatia for its unwavering support to India in its fight against terrorism, as both nations opened a new chapter of strengthened bilateral cooperation during his first-ever visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the southeastern European nation.

At a time when global alliances are being shaped by shared democratic values and mutual security concerns, PM Modi’s landmark visit underscores India’s strategic outreach to like-minded nations within Europe. “We agree that terrorism is the enemy of humanity and opposed to those forces who believe in democracy,” said PM Modi, while addressing the press after holding delegation-level talks with Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic in Zagreb.

“We are deeply grateful to Prime Minister Plenkovic and the Government of Croatia for their condolences on the terrorist attack in India on April 22. In such difficult times, the support of our friendly countries has been very valuable to us,” he added.

Broadening the Bilateral Horizon

The two leaders held productive discussions spanning an ambitious range of sectors including digital technologies, defence, renewable energy, space, maritime infrastructure, cyber security, semiconductors, shipbuilding, agriculture, tourism, and hospitality.

PM Modi emphasised the need to build reliable supply chains and reiterated India’s readiness to collaborate with Croatia in pharmaceuticals, information technology, and clean energy. “We will promote cooperation in pharma, agriculture, clean technology, digital technology, semiconductors, and more,” PM Modi declared, highlighting shared goals in global innovation and resilience.

Both leaders also reaffirmed the importance of India-EU strategic ties, with Croatia’s support viewed as pivotal in strengthening India’s linkages within the European bloc.