PM Modi, Croatian Counterpart Andrej Plenkovic Take a Walk to City Centre, Share Candid Moments at Roadside Cafe | Video

Zagreb: Prime Minister Narendra Modi accompanied by Croatian counterpart Andrej Plenkovic took a tour of the City Centre in Zagreb and indulged in a candid conversation at what appeared to be a road side restaurant. Narendra Modi's visit to Croatia is the first ever by an Indian Prime Minister. PM Modi also met President of Croatia, Zoran Milanović in Croatia, during the last leg of his three-nation tour.

During his crucial visit to the country, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held productive discussions with PM Andrej Plenkovic, focussing on enhancing bilateral cooperation across key sectors.

PM Modi informed that his discussion included defence and security, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, information technology and renewable energy. The two leaders also explored synergies in areas such as semiconductors, shipbuilding, connectivity, people-to-people ties and more.

Briefing the media, MEA Secretary (West), Tanmaya Lal said, “...This has been the first ever visit to Croatia by an Indian Prime Minister... The visit reflects the growing momentum in the India-Croatia Partnership. It also has importance in the context of the India-EU Strategic Partnership and it shows India's growing ties with partners in Central and Eastern Europe... As we speak. Prime Minister Modi is also meeting and holding discussions with the President of Croatia, Zoran Milanovic...”

“The two leaders then welcome the signing of four documents. These are MoUs on cooperation in agriculture and allied sectors, a program of cooperation in science and technology, a cultural exchange program and an MoU on Hindi Chair at University of Zagreb. The leaders in their discussions also look forward to an early conclusion of the India-EU FTA, which will boost bilateral trade and supply chain resilience...”

"...The visit takes place against the backdrop of serious global challenges and flux. The leaders discussed regional and global issues, including ongoing conflicts and other major developments. Cooperation in counter terrorism was a prominent topic of discussion. Prime Minister Modi thanked Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic for Croatia's support and solidarity in the wake of the terror attacks in Pahalgam… The leaders agreed to strengthen the India-Croatia Startup Bridge Initiative. The leaders also agreed to explore increased collaboration in defence, building upon the MoU that was signed two years ago".

Later, the two leader honoured brave soldiers and paid respects at The Monument to the Homeland in Zagreb, Croatia.

Addressing a joint presser with Croatian counterpart Andrej Plenkovic, PM Narendra Modi said, “I am happy that I got the opportunity to come to this beautiful city of Zagreb. Even though this visit is a small one, I got to experience the city's culture, people's lifestyle, and warmth. I felt at home… Today was an important milestone in our bilateral relations. We made many important decisions that will strengthen India-Croatia relations and open new avenues for working together in many areas…"

"As we raise our glasses this evening, let us celebrate the enduring friendship between Croatia and India. May our partnership continue to flourish, rooted in trust, mutual respect and shared ambition. May our peoples continue to learn from one another, to inspire one another, and to walk together on the path of innovation, understanding and peace. And may the future we build togetherthe art shared success. To the help of Prime Minister Modi. To the friendship between Croatia and India. And to the bright road ahead. Jai Hind...," said Croatia PM Andrej Plenkovic.

In another statement, Andrej Plenkovic told PM Modi that a successful hosting of 2023 G20 summit, upcoming Global Artificial Intelligence Summit were shinning examples of global leadership.

“Today, India stands at the vanguard of global progress, guided by a bold and inclusive vision for development, sustainability, and technical innovation. Under your dynamic leadership, India has emerged as a strong advocate for the Global South and a powerful voice on the international stage. Your successful hosting of the 2023 G20 summit, as well as the upcoming Global Artificial Intelligence Summit, which is due in February next year, are shining examples of this global leadership,” said Andrej Plenkovic.

"Croatia commends your enduring efforts to promote peace, foster cooperation, and advance human progress within India and beyond your borders. Your vision of a dynamic future ahead with India deeply resonates with Croatia's own aspirations. As a member of the European Union and NATO and a country committed to innovation, stability and constructive global dialogue, and as the most natural Mediterranean gateway to Central Europe, Croatia is uniquely positioned to play a meaningful role in connecting the Three Seas Initiative, which we will preside over... This connection offers a valuable opportunity to further strengthen strategic connectivity between our regions. During your visit, we have identified numerous avenues to deepen cooperation between our two countries, from trade, technology, science and education to mobility, defence, culture and tourism...," Croatian PM further said.

“This evening we are not only celebrating the enduring friendship between Croatia and India, but also reaffirming our shared commitment to a future built on mutual respect, genuine partnership and a deep sense of common purpose... While our diplomatic relations were formally established in 1992, the ties between our peoples reach much further back in time... Through his journey and writings, Marco Polo, the legendary explorer born on the Croatian island of Korcula, helped unveil the wonders of India to the European imagination... As early as the 18th century, Philip Bezdigi, a Croatian scholar and missionary, authored the first printed grammar of Sanskrit, laying the groundwork for Europe's earliest academic engagement with India's profound linguistic and philosophical traditions. At the University of Zagreb, the study of Sanskrit began in 1876, establishing a foundation for cultural dialogue and scholarly exchange that continues to this day. One of Croatia's most influential political leaders, Stepan Radic, found lasting inspiration from the teachings and philosophy of Mahatma Gandhi...,” the Croatian Prime Minister said.