Pakistan and Croatia Explore Strategic Partnership Opportunities for Mutual Growth

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar emphasized on Thursday that Pakistan and Croatia can leverage their strategic geographic positions to unlock significant mutual growth potential, following a meeting with Croatia’s Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Gordan Grlić Radman in Islamabad.

During a joint press briefing, Dar highlighted the importance of both nations’ locations, stating, “Pakistan and Croatia occupy key geographical positions that offer opportunities for collaborative growth and development.” He outlined the capabilities of Pakistan’s Karachi port and discussed potential port partnerships.

The discussions, described as “warm, constructive and wide-ranging,” focused on enhancing cooperation across trade, investment, agriculture, labor mobility, education, defense, climate change, tourism, infrastructure, information technology, and seaport collaboration. Both sides underscored connectivity as central to sustainable development and global economic integration.

Dar noted that Radman’s visit marked the first high-level Croatian delegation to Pakistan in an extended period, signaling a renewed focus on bilateral ties. He credited Radman’s role in Croatia’s EU and NATO membership, calling it a “key contribution” to the country’s strategic alignment.

The Foreign Office confirmed that talks included reviews of Pakistan-EU cooperation and regional/global issues. The two sides agreed to hold bilateral political consultations in 2027 and explore avenues to deepen collaboration within the EU framework.

Dar reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening ties with Croatia, particularly in trade and investment, while acknowledging the EU’s status as a key trading partner. He referenced recent diplomatic engagement with EU leadership, including discussions during the 2024 India-Pakistan conflict.

In response, Radman praised Pakistan’s regional peace initiatives and expressed Croatia’s interest in expanding cooperation. He emphasized the importance of international solidarity amid global challenges, advocating for adherence to international law and humanitarian principles.

PM Highlights Commitment to Bilateral Cooperation

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, during a separate meeting with Radman, called for enhanced collaboration in trade, IT, agriculture, and tourism. He lauded Croatia’s support for Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts and extended an invitation for future high-level visits.

Sharif emphasized that Pakistan-Croatia relations are “marked by cordiality and mutual respect,” and expressed willingness to deepen ties through skilled manpower development and infrastructure projects. Radman reciprocated, congratulating Pakistan’s leadership on its regional peace advocacy and pledging continued cooperation in all sectors of mutual interest.

Source link