New Delhi | RBN News
Prime Minister of Croatia, Andrej Plenković, met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on Tuesday to review and advance bilateral relations across key strategic and economic sectors.
According to an official release issued by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), the two leaders discussed ways to inject fresh momentum into the India–Croatia partnership, with emphasis on technology, innovation, shipbuilding, the blue economy, and enhanced connectivity through the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC).
Focus on Technology and Innovation
During the discussions, both sides underscored the importance of strengthening cooperation in emerging technologies and innovation-driven sectors. Croatia has developed capabilities in advanced engineering and maritime industries, while India continues to expand its digital economy and research ecosystem.
Officials indicated that collaboration in technology and innovation could include joint research initiatives, industrial partnerships, and knowledge exchange mechanisms aimed at strengthening economic engagement.
Maritime Cooperation and Blue Economy
Shipbuilding and the broader blue economy featured prominently in the talks. Croatia has longstanding expertise in shipbuilding and maritime infrastructure, positioning it as a potential partner in India’s expanding maritime and port-led development initiatives.
The blue economy—covering sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and ecosystem health—was identified as another area for structured cooperation. Both countries are exploring maritime trade routes, logistics modernization, and coastal development projects.
Connectivity Through IMEEC Corridor
Connectivity through the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC) was also discussed. The corridor aims to enhance trade and infrastructure linkages between India, the Middle East, and Europe.
Prime Minister Modi, in a post on social media platform X, stated that the discussions covered boosting connectivity through the IMEEC corridor. Observers note that improved connectivity frameworks could facilitate trade flows between India and European economies, including Croatia.
India–EU Trade Framework
Prime Minister Modi also expressed appreciation for Prime Minister Plenković’s support for the India–European Union Free Trade Agreement (FTA). While the agreement remains subject to formal processes, it is expected to strengthen India’s trade relations with EU member states, including Croatia.
Officials suggest that a structured trade framework could enhance market access, investment flows, and industrial collaboration between the two countries.
Background of India–Croatia Relations
India and Croatia maintain cordial diplomatic relations, with cooperation spanning trade, culture, education, and multilateral engagement. Economic exchanges have remained modest but stable, with potential identified in pharmaceuticals, information technology, renewable energy, and maritime industries.
High-level interactions in recent years have sought to diversify bilateral engagement and expand cooperation in technology-intensive sectors.
No Formal Agreements Announced
No memorandums of understanding or joint declarations were signed following the meeting. The discussions were described as forward-looking, aimed at identifying practical steps to deepen economic and strategic ties.
Follow-up engagements at ministerial and institutional levels are expected to further develop the areas outlined during the talks.
What Happens Next
Officials indicated that working-level consultations may be initiated to explore collaboration in shipbuilding, innovation partnerships, and connectivity projects linked to IMEEC.
The meeting in New Delhi reflects ongoing diplomatic outreach and economic engagement between India and Croatia as both countries seek to expand their partnership across technology, maritime development, and infrastructure connectivity.
Further developments are expected as bilateral discussions progress through established diplomatic channels.
