Latest news with #AndrejPlenković
Euractiv
5 days ago
- Business
- Euractiv
Croatia to tap EU's €150 bln defence loan pool to arm Ukraine
Croatia intends to use EU-backed defence loans to bolster Ukraine's military capabilities, Prime Minister Andrej Plenković told Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during a phone call on Tuesday evening. The support will be provided through the EU's Security Action for Europe (SAFE), a loan-based initiative for joint defence procurement with a total lending capacity of €150 billion. Croatia is one of 18 EU countries that expressed interest in the programme last week, although it has not yet disclosed how much funding it will request. ' Andrej Plenković noted that Croatia will contribute its share to support Ukrainian defenders,' reads a statement on the call. The two leaders also discussed a ne w US initiative, whereby European allies would cover the cost of American defence equipment sent to Kyiv. This plan, unveiled by US President Donald Trump in mid-July, aims to boost both Ukraine's battlefield supplies and European purchases of US-made arms. SAFE enables countries to procure ammunition and missiles for Ukraine. Last month, EU Defence and Space Commissioner Andrius Kubilius urged capitals to include Kyiv in their procurement plans under the SAFE instrument. Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania are also considering using SAFE to support Ukraine. Bulgaria's recent expression of interest outlines potential joint purchases with Kyiv, particularly of 155 mm ammunition, and opens the door to the involvement of Ukrainian defence manufacturers. "The country welcomes the possible inclusion of Ukrainian defence industry in any future joint acquisition of defence articles and other products with defence applications under the eligible categories of the SAFE instrument,' it reads. Other capitals may also use SAFE loans to help replenish Ukraine's stockpiles. EU countries have until the end of November to submit detailed plans outlining how they intend to use the loans. In June, Ukrainian Defence Minister Sergiy Boyev presented Kyiv's defence priorities to EU partners, listing air defence systems, missiles, ammunition, artillery and armoured platforms. 'We stand ready for mutually beneficial cooperation toward integrating Ukraine's defence industry into the Eurpean ecosystem,' Boyev told member states. (de)
News18
17-07-2025
- Business
- News18
Modi's Balkan Masterstroke: How Bharat Redefined Europe's Power Map In Zagreb
Last Updated: The warm reception in Zagreb, as Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković welcomed Modi as the leader of a resurgent global power, set the tone for the visit Prime Minister Narendra Modi has concluded his tour de force in Europe and across the pond, culminating in a historic visit to Zagreb. Via the visit, Modi has redrawn the geopolitical map, forging a powerful new era with a relationship with Croatia. The visit was a successful and powerful declaration of Bharat's arrival as a global rule-maker. The warm reception in Zagreb, as Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković welcomed Modi as the leader of a resurgent global power, set the tone for the visit. This was the crowning achievement of a historic tour that saw the Prime Minister command the world stage: He reaffirmed deep civilisational bonds with Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides, securing an unequivocal ally in the Eastern Mediterranean. He engaged in a frank and forthright discussion at the G7 summit in Canada, making it clear that the Global South would no longer be a silent spectator. He held a pivotal meeting with the President of the European Council, where onlookers noted the palpable shift in dynamic—Europe was listening to India, not the other way around. A Gateway to Europe's Core Croatia's geographic position on the eastern coast of the Adriatic Sea offers India a vital maritime gateway to Central and Eastern Europe. The country's major ports—Rijeka, Split, and Ploce—are not peripheral outlets but integral components of the European Union's core Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T). The key pronouncements highlight that Croatia is a 'critical link" in this new trade chain, serving as a distribution hub for goods destined for the heart of Europe. This alignment positions Croatia as a key partner in a powerful repudiation of China's creeping influence in the Balkan. Beyond the steady growth in bilateral trade, which stood at a modest USD 337.68 million in 2023, the visit saw Modi extend a golden invitation to Croatian companies to participate in the revolutionary Sagarmala project. The initiative, focused on port modernisation and coastal development, opens vast opportunities for Croatian maritime expertise and technology, creating a synergistic relationship that links India's domestic infrastructure ambitions with Croatia's established strengths. Strategic Partnership in Defence and Technology In the defence and high-technology sectors, the bilateral talks have moved the India-Croatia relationship resolutely into the strategic domain. The decision to formulate a long-term Defence Cooperation Plan elevates the partnership beyond simple military exchanges. The explicit focus on joint defence production and industry-level partnerships signifies a deep-seated trust and a shared vision for co-development, building upon the Memorandum of Understanding on Defence Cooperation signed in 2023. The strategic alignment extends to critical technology sectors that are central to India's future economic growth and national security. The leadership have identified specific new areas for enhanced cooperation, including pharmaceuticals, information technology, clean and digital technologies, renewable energy, and, most notably, semiconductors. A standout announcement was the plan for India to share its space expertise with Croatia, marking a new frontier in bilateral cooperation. It reflects India's growing capabilities as a major space-faring nation and its willingness to collaborate with trusted partners on advanced technology. Such an initiative not only opens avenues for joint ventures but also cements a high-technology alliance that is forward-looking and strategically significant. A Reliable Voice within European Institutions As a full member of both the European Union and NATO, Croatia provides India with indirect access and a valuable, friendly voice within two of the world's most influential political and security blocs. This diplomatic leverage is particularly crucial for advancing India's interests on complex issues that require consensus-building, chief among them being the long-pending India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA). During the visit, Croatia reiterated its 'strong support for the early conclusion of the FTA." Croatia's consistent backing provides India with a reliable advocate in a forum where geopolitical and regulatory hurdles have often stalled negotiations. This support is rooted in a shared understanding of the mutual benefits the agreement would bring, which will help strengthen supply chain resilience for both India and the wider European Union. Furthermore, Croatia has consistently backed India's bid for permanent membership in the UN Security Council and, critically, maintained a non-interventionist stance on sensitive internal. A Red Line Drawn on Global Terror For too long, India has had to endure the sanctimonious lectures and hypocritical double standards of Western nations on the issue of terrorism. In Zagreb, Prime Minister Modi put an end to it again. Referencing the recent, horrific Pahalgam terrorist attack, he thanked Croatia for its unwavering and immediate solidarity—a stark contrast to the selective, mealy-mouthed condemnations that often emanated from other Western capitals. He drew a clear red line that left no room for ambiguity. 'There are no 'good terrorists' and 'bad terrorists'," Modi declared. 'Terrorism is the sworn enemy of humanity. Any nation that provides safe havens, funding, or ideological justification to its perpetrators will find itself on the wrong side of history. Bharat will not tolerate it, and the world should not either." It is a much-needed reality check for those who conveniently categorise terror to suit their geopolitical agendas. The message was clear: India's security is non-negotiable, and its friends are those who stand with it unequivocally in this fight. The message from Zagreb is unambiguous, and it couldn't have come at a better time, especially as old alliances fray and global institutions falter. The days of a unipolar or bipolar world are ending soon. A new, confident, and unshakeable pole has risen, and its name is Bharat. The world would do well to listen. About the Author Sohil Sinha Sohil Sinha is a Sub Editor at News18. He writes on foreign affairs, geopolitics along with domestic policy and infrastructure projects. tags : croatia pm narendra modi view comments Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: June 20, 2025, 11:47 IST News opinion Modi's Balkan Masterstroke: How Bharat Redefined Europe's Power Map In Zagreb Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
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First Post
19-06-2025
- Politics
- First Post
India, Croatia vow zero tolerance for terrorism, call for swift justice for perpetrators
Condemning terrorism and violent extremism in all its forms and manifestations, India and Croatia have called for the disruption of terrorism financing networks, elimination of safe havens, and bringing its perpetrators to justice swiftly. read more India and Croatia have strongly condemned terrorism in all its forms and called for urgent global efforts to dismantle terrorist networks and eliminate their safe havens, during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's landmark visit to the Balkan nation, the first ever by an Indian prime minister. In a joint statement issued on June 18, a day after PM Modi's talks with his Croatian counterpart Andrej Plenković, both countries reaffirmed their commitment to a 'zero-tolerance' policy against terrorism, including transnational and cross-border threats. They also highlighted the importance of swift justice for perpetrators and the need to disrupt financing channels through multilateral frameworks like the UN and the Financial Action Task Force (FATF). STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The leaders also condemned the use of terrorism as a state proxy and urged concerted action against all UN- and EU-designated individuals and entities, including those listed under the UNSC 1267 sanctions regime. Expressing concern over the 'deteriorating security situation' in West Asia, the joint statement called for de-escalation between Israel and Iran. PM Modi thanked Croatia for its solidarity following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir. Prime Minister Modi thanked Prime Minister Andrej Plenković and Croatia for the support and solidarity extended in the aftermath of the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir on April 22, it said. 'Both sides condemned terrorism and violent extremism in all its forms and manifestations, including transnational and cross-border terrorism. They reiterated their zero-tolerance approach to terrorism, rejecting any justification for such acts, under any circumstances,' said the joint statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs. They emphasised that those responsible for the attacks should be 'held accountable' and 'condemned the use of terrorists as proxies', it added. 'They expressed their consistent position of supporting the full implementation of the UN Global Counterterrorism Strategy, key international conventions and protocols in this field, and relevant resolutions of the United Nations Security Council. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD 'They called for the disruption of terrorism financing networks, including through the UN, FATF and regional mechanisms, elimination of safe havens, dismantling of terrorist infrastructure, and bringing perpetrators of terrorism to justice swiftly,' the statement said. The two leaders also urged for 'concerted actions against all UN- and EU-designated terrorists and terrorist entities', associated proxy groups, facilitators and sponsors, including terrorists under 1267 UNSC Sanctions Committee. The two leaders noted the importance of improving connectivity, including through the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC) initiative. They agreed to 'expand cooperation' in ports and shipping domains given the long maritime traditions of both countries. Both sides agreed to further explore the potential of Croatia serving as a Mediterranean gateway to Central Europe, it said. In this context, they also reaffirmed full respect for international law of the sea as reflected in UNCLOS, and for the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and freedom of navigation, to the benefit of maritime security and international peace and stability, the joint statement said. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The two Prime Ministers exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual interest, including war in Ukraine. They expressed support for a 'just and lasting peace in Ukraine based on respect for international law, principles of the UN Charter and territorial integrity and sovereignty,' it said. The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to promote a free, open, peaceful and prosperous Indo-Pacific built on international law and mutual respect for sovereignty and peaceful resolution of disputes underpinned by effective regional institutions. The two sides reaffirmed their strong commitment to multilateralism and support for a rules-based international order. 'They emphasised the urgent need for reforms in the UN system, particularly the UN Security Council, including its expansion in both permanent and non-permanent categories, to make it more inclusive, transparent, effective, accountable, efficient and better aligned with contemporary geopolitical realities,' it added. The two prime ministers expressed satisfaction at the outcomes of the visit, and 'reaffirmed their commitment to expanding the partnership' between India and Croatia. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD
News18
19-06-2025
- Politics
- News18
Pattachitra Painting To Silver Candle Stand: A Look At PM Modi's Gifts For Croatian Leadership
Last Updated: From Odisha's Pattachitra Painting to silver candle stand from Rajasthan, the gifts showcased Indian culture and tradition. Prime Minister Narendra Modi showcased a gesture of cultural diplomacy during his visit to Croatia by presenting exquisitely handcrafted gifts to Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković and President Zoran Milanović. From Odisha's Pattachitra Painting to silver candle stand from Rajasthan, the gifts showcased Indian culture and tradition. PM Modi arrived in Croatian capital of Zagreb, the first-ever visit by an Indian premier, on the last leg of his three-nation visit after wrapping up his landmark visit to Canada where he attended the 51st Group of Seven (G7) Summit in Kananaskis. He had earlier visited Cyprus as part of the tour. In a special gesture, Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković had received PM Modi at the airport. Pattachitra Painting To President Zoran Milanović As a symbol of India's rich artistic heritage, PM Modi gifted a handmade Pattachitra Painting to Croatian President Zoran Milanović. Pattachitra is a beautiful traditional art form from Odisha, known for its detailed and colourful paintings on cloth. The name comes from 'patta" (cloth) and 'chitra" (picture). PM Modi gifted a Pattachitra Painting to the President of Croatia, Zoran Milanović.Pattachitra is a beautiful traditional art form from Odisha, known for its detailed and colourful paintings on cloth. The name comes from 'patta" (cloth) and 'chitra" (picture). These artworks… — ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2025 Known for their intricate craftsmanship, these paintings depict stories from Indian mythology, especially about Lord Krishna and the Jagannath tradition. Artists use natural colours and handmade brushes to create bold lines and detailed scenes. To Prime Minister Andrej Plenković, PM Modi presented a silver candle stand from Rajasthan, which is crafted using the age-old engraving techniques. The stand, detailed floral and geometric designs, is inspired by palaces and temples. PM Modi gifted a Silver Candle Stand to Andrej Plenković, Prime Minister of silver candle stand from Rajasthan is a beautiful example of the region's traditional metalwork. Handmade by skilled artisans, it features detailed floral and geometric designs created… — ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2025 Handmade by skilled artisans, its elegant shape and fine patterns give it a royal and timeless look. Rajasthan, especially cities like Udaipur and Jaipur, is famous for its silver craftsmanship. PM Modi's Croatia Visit PM Modi concluded his first-ever day-long Croatia visit where he held wide-ranging delegation-level talks with his Croatian counterpart, Andrej Plenković, at Banski Dvori. Both leaders agreed to deepen bilateral trade and build resilient, dependable supply chains. New areas identified for enhanced cooperation include Pharmaceuticals, Agriculture, Information Technology, Clean and Digital Technologies, Renewable Energy, and Semiconductors. In a major step to strengthen ties, both nations signed four Memoranda of Understanding. Location : Croatia
United News of India
18-06-2025
- Politics
- United News of India
PM Modi terms visit to Croatia a special one; is welcomed by Indian diaspora, Sanskrit chants
Zagreb (Croatia), June 18 (UNI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi today termed his visit to Croatia as a special one, it being the first ever by an Indian Prime Minister to the central European nation. He thanked Prime Minister Andrej Plenković for the special gesture of welcoming him at the airport. In a post on X, the PM said: 'A short while ago, landed in Zagreb, Croatia. This is a special visit, the first ever by an Indian Prime Minister to a valued European partner. I am grateful to Prime Minister Andrej Plenković for the special gesture of welcoming me at the airport.' The Indian community also gave a rousing welcome to the PM. 'Croatia's Indian community has contributed to Croatia's progress and also remained in touch with their roots in India. In Zagreb, I interacted with some members of the Indian community, who accorded me an unforgettable welcome. There is immense enthusiasm among the Indian community here about this visit and its impact in making the bond between our nations stronger than ever before!' Later, the PM was treated to the chanting of Sanskrit shlokas by a group in Zagreb. The PM who was seen appreciating the chanting, posted on X: 'The bonds of culture are strong and vibrant! Here is a part of the welcome in Zagreb. Happy to see Indian culture has so much respect in Croatia' The two nations are expected to sign a number of memorandums and bilateral agreements across various sectors, including agriculture, culture, and education, during the talks between Prime Minister Modi and Croatian PM Plenkovic. In the evening, the PM is to meet President Zoran Milanović. 'India is one of Croatia's most important partners in Asia. This is a historic, first visit by an Indian Prime Minister. It is the world's most populous country, with 1.44 billion people,' said PM Plenković at a government session on Wednesday. He described the bilateral relations between the two countries as good and 'on the rise,' adding that Modi is visiting Croatia at his invitation, following the G7 summit in Canada. India officially recognised Croatia in May 1992, and diplomatic relations were established in July of the same year. Croatia and India have rarely exchanged visits at the highest level. President Stjepan Mesić paid an official visit to India in 2002, and then-President of India Ram Nath Kovind made a return visit in 2019. According to data, trade between the two countries from January to November 2024 amounted to approximately USD 306 million, with Croatia running a significant trade deficit. UNI RN
