Why Did PM Modi Thank Croatia for Supporting India's Fight Against Terrorism?

Zagreb, June 18 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed gratitude to Croatia for its support in India's battle against terrorism as both nations embarked on a new phase in their bilateral relations during his landmark visit—the first ever by an Indian Prime Minister—on Wednesday.

During his time in Zagreb, PM Modi engaged in constructive discussions with Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic, where they assessed the entire spectrum of India-Croatia relations and identified opportunities for enhanced collaboration across various sectors including digital technologies, space, renewable energy, defense, maritime infrastructure, tourism, and hospitality.

Highlighting the shared values of democracy, rule of law, pluralism, and equality that bind India and Croatia, PM Modi thanked Croatia for its consistent support in combating cross-border terrorism. The two leaders also advocated for further strengthening of India-EU strategic relations.

“We agree that terrorism is a threat to humanity and contradicts the principles upheld by democratic societies. We are profoundly thankful to Prime Minister Plenkovic and the Croatian Government for their condolences following the tragic terrorist attack in India on April 22. The backing of our friendly nations is invaluable during such challenging times,” PM Modi stated after their discussions.

He further mentioned that both nations have committed to increasing cooperation in various sectors to enhance bilateral trade and establish reliable supply chains.

“We will foster collaboration in pharmaceuticals, agriculture, information technology, clean technology, digital technology, renewable energy, and semiconductors. Cooperation in shipbuilding and cybersecurity will also see significant growth,” remarked PM Modi.

In a gesture reflecting their long-standing cultural connections, PM Modi was presented with a reprint of Vezdin's Sanskrit grammar—the first printed Sanskrit grammar authored in Latin in 1790 by Croatian scholar and missionary Filip Vezdin during his time in India.

“To Prime Minister Narendra Modi, I presented a reprint of Vezdin's Sanskrit grammar—an early printed work based on knowledge obtained from Kerala Brahmins and local manuscripts. This pioneering achievement marked Filip Vezdin as one of the first European scholars to engage deeply with Indian languages and culture, symbolizing the early cultural ties between Croatia and India,” said Plenkovic.

Filip Vezdin, a Croatian Indologist, arrived in Malabar as a missionary in 1774 and later served as the Vicar-General on the Malabar Coast. He is recognized for publishing the first printed Sanskrit grammar in 1790, with a commemorative plaque unveiled in Trivandrum in 1999.

Plenkovic also presented PM Modi with a book titled 'Croatia and India, Bilateral Navigator for Diplomats and Business', authored by Croatian diplomat Sinise Grgica.

“Grgica offers a unique and thorough comparative analysis of our nations and examines all facets of bilateral relations. This book highlights our accomplishments and the untapped potential for future collaboration, aiming to inspire and fortify the friendship between Croatia and India,” Plenkovic noted.

Earlier, PM Modi received a warm welcome from the vibrant Indian community in Zagreb as he commenced his historic visit, marking the first time an Indian Prime Minister has visited Croatia.

Zagreb served as the final destination on PM Modi's three-nation tour, which included stops in Cyprus before proceeding to Canada for the G7 Summit in Kananaskis.

PM Modi emphasized that this tour also provides an opportunity to thank partner nations for their unwavering support in India’s fight against cross-border terrorism and to encourage global cooperation in addressing terrorism in all its forms.

In a special welcome, PM Modi was greeted ceremonially by Plenkovic at Franjo Tudman Airport.

Members of the Indian diaspora gathered in significant numbers to catch a glimpse of PM Modi as his motorcade traversed the city.

A large crowd of locals also extended a grand welcome as PM Modi arrived at his hotel.

Amid chants of “Modi-Modi”, “Bharat Mata Ki Jai”, and “Vande Mataram”, PM Modi enjoyed vibrant cultural performances from attendees.

Joining a group of locals chanting Vedic shlokas, PM Modi interacted with several individuals in the gathering before entering the building.

“The cultural ties are robust and lively! Here is a glimpse of the welcome in Zagreb. It’s heartening to see Indian culture so revered in Croatia,” said PM Modi.

“The Indian community in Croatia has significantly contributed to the country's development while maintaining their connections to India. In Zagreb, I had the pleasure of interacting with several community members who gave me an unforgettable reception. There is immense excitement among the Indian community regarding this visit and its role in strengthening the bond between our nations,” he added.

PM Modi was again warmly received by Plenkovic at the iconic St. Mark’s Square, where he was given a ceremonial welcome.

This was followed by bilateral talks at the delegation level between the two leaders.

Plenkovic noted that PM Modi's visit arrives at a crucial time. “We welcomed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Zagreb! This is a historic visit as it marks the first by the Prime Minister of India—the world’s most populous country—and it comes at a significant geopolitical moment. We are embarking on a new chapter in Croatia-India relations and setting the stage for enhanced bilateral cooperation across numerous sectors,” remarked the Croatian Prime Minister.

Analysts believe that this inaugural visit by an Indian PM to Croatia will foster stronger political and economic ties, providing a key opportunity to expand collaboration across various sectors including trade, innovation, defense, ports, shipping, science and technology, cultural exchange, and workforce mobility.