PM Modi Departs For Croatia After Successful G7 Summit In Canada

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday departed for Croatia after concluding a successful visit to Canada, where he participated in the 51st G7 Summit in Kananaskis.

His next destination, Croatia, marks a historic moment as it is the first time an Indian Prime Minister will set foot in the southeastern European nation.

During the G7 Summit, PM Modi engaged in high-level discussions with global leaders on pressing global issues, including sustainability, global peace, economic cooperation, and technological innovation.

In a post shared on X, the Prime Minister said, “Concluding a productive Canada visit. Thankful to the Canadian people and Government for hosting a successful G7 Summit, which witnessed fruitful discussions on diverse global issues. We remain committed to furthering global peace, prosperity and sustainability.”

Strengthening India-Croatia ties

PM Modi’s visit to Croatia aims to elevate bilateral cooperation in key sectors such as trade, defence, ports, science and technology, cultural exchange, and workforce mobility.

The government stated that the visit underscores India’s commitment to expanding ties with European Union partners.

During the visit, PM Modi is scheduled to meet Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković and President Zoran Milanović.

This engagement builds on earlier interactions, including meetings during COP-26 in Glasgow and the 2021 virtual India-EU Leaders’ Summit.

India and Croatia share strong ties in areas such as agriculture, investment, defence, and culture.

Bilateral trade stands at approximately USD 300 million, with Indian investments in Croatia valued at around EUR 44.5 million.

In contrast, Croatian investments in India are approximately EUR 5.5 million.

Notably, the India-Croatia Startup Bridge launched in December 2021 has fostered significant collaboration in the startup and innovation sectors.

In 2022, both nations hosted a 50-day Startup Challenge to strengthen ecosystem cooperation.

Croatia has long been familiar with Indian culture, dating back centuries through early missionary ties.

Today, the Department of Indology at the University of Zagreb has promoted Indian languages and culture for over 60 years. Interest in Yoga and Ayurveda continues to grow in Croatia.

The Indian community in Croatia has also expanded, with over 17,000 Indians residing there as of December. Most are short- to medium-term contract workers in sectors addressing Croatia’s labour needs.

“As the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Croatia, it will open new avenues for bilateral cooperation in areas of mutual interest,” PM Modi stated ahead of his arrival.

The visit is poised to be a historic milestone in Indo-Croatian relations and paves the way for a stronger partnership in the years ahead.

Also Read: PM Modi, Canadian PM Carney Agree On Steps To Restore Bilateral Ties At G7 Summit