Prime Minister Narendra Modi made history on Wednesday as the first Indian Prime Minister to visit Croatia, marking a significant milestone in India-Croatia relations. The visit, which was filled with symbolism, diplomacy, and cultural resonance, laid the foundation for an expanded partnership between the two nations.
During his official engagements in Zagreb, PM Modi held wide-ranging talks with his Croatian counterpart Andrej Plenkovic. The two leaders reviewed the full spectrum of bilateral ties and identified key areas for future cooperation including digital innovation, renewable energy, defence, space, maritime infrastructure, hospitality, and semiconductors.
Highlighting shared democratic values and mutual respect for rule of law and pluralism, PM Modi thanked Croatia for standing by India during difficult times, particularly in the wake of the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam. “We greatly appreciate Croatia’s unwavering support in our fight against cross-border terrorism,” he said, underlining terrorism as a common threat to democratic societies.
Both leaders expressed strong intent to build resilient supply chains and boost two-way trade. PM Modi noted, “Our cooperation will expand across a range of strategic sectors — from clean technology and cybersecurity to shipbuilding and pharmaceuticals.”
A Cultural Tribute: Bridging Centuries
In a gesture underscoring the deep-rooted cultural links between the two countries, PM Plenkovic presented PM Modi with a rare reprint of the world’s first printed Sanskrit grammar — authored in Latin in 1790 by Croatian missionary and scholar Filip Vezdin, also known as Paulinus of St. Bartholomew. Vezdin had compiled the grammar based on his studies with Kerala Brahmins during his time in India.
“This work is not just a scholarly feat; it is a symbol of the early intellectual and cultural exchange between Croatia and India,” said Plenkovic. PM Modi warmly acknowledged the gift, describing it as “a testament to our longstanding connection rooted in learning and mutual admiration.”
The Croatian PM also gifted a diplomatic and economic guidebook titled “Croatia and India: Bilateral Navigator for Diplomats and Business”, authored by diplomat Sinisa Grgica, aimed at strengthening business and diplomatic engagement between the two nations.
Warm Reception by Indian Diaspora
PM Modi received an enthusiastic welcome from the Indian community in Zagreb, with crowds waving flags, chanting “Modi-Modi” and “Bharat Mata Ki Jai,” and performing vibrant cultural displays. PM Modi paused to greet well-wishers, joined in Vedic chants, and expressed appreciation for the diaspora’s contribution to Croatia’s development and continued connection to India.
“The bonds of culture are alive and strong. I’m touched by the warmth and respect Indian culture receives in Croatia,” the Prime Minister noted.
A Visit at a Geopolitical Crossroads
PM Modi’s Croatia stop concluded his three-nation tour that included visits to Cyprus and Canada, where he attended the G7 Outreach Summit. Analysts say the visit to Croatia — though symbolic — comes at a crucial moment, both geopolitically and diplomatically, as India deepens ties with the European Union and strengthens engagement with Central and Eastern European nations.
Welcoming PM Modi at Zagreb’s historic St. Mark’s Square, PM Plenkovic said, “This visit marks a turning point. We are opening a new chapter in Croatia-India relations, with a clear focus on deepening cooperation in areas vital to both our nations.”
As the leaders wrapped up the bilateral meeting, optimism ran high for a stronger, more dynamic partnership that bridges continents and opens new opportunities for both countries in trade, innovation, and global diplomacy.
