Croatia's Minister of Foreign and European Affairs, Gordan Grlić Radman, will arrive in Pakistan on July 9 for the first-ever visit by a Croatian foreign minister. This milestone underscores both nations' intent to broaden cooperation across multiple sectors, according to the Foreign Office.
Talks to Cover Trade, Investment, and Regional Issues
The visit is at the invitation of Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar. The two foreign ministers will hold comprehensive talks covering the full spectrum of Pakistan-Croatia relations. Discussions will focus on expanding cooperation in trade and investment, easing visa procedures, strengthening collaboration in education, defence, information technology, and maritime affairs, while exploring new avenues for economic and institutional engagement. They will also exchange views on major regional and international developments, reflecting shared interest in enhancing dialogue on mutual concerns and promoting cooperation in multilateral forums.
High-Level Meetings Planned
Besides engagements at the Foreign Office, Grlić Radman is scheduled to call on Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and meet Chairman of the Senate Yousaf Raza Gilani. These meetings are expected to reinforce political contacts and deepen parliamentary engagement between the two countries.
Fresh Momentum for Bilateral Ties
The Foreign Office said the high-level visit would provide fresh momentum to Pakistan-Croatia relations by strengthening political dialogue and expanding practical cooperation in sectors of mutual benefit. Pakistan and Croatia have maintained cordial diplomatic relations since Croatia's independence, with cooperation gradually expanding through diplomatic exchanges, trade, and multilateral engagement. While bilateral trade remains modest, both countries have expressed interest in unlocking greater economic potential, particularly in commerce, investment, maritime connectivity, and tourism.
New Chapter in Bilateral Relations
The visit by Croatia's top diplomat is expected to open a new chapter in bilateral ties by elevating political engagement and laying the groundwork for broader cooperation in emerging areas of shared interest.
