Why Did India Condemn Vandalism at Zagreb Embassy?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- India strongly condemned the vandalism incident at its Embassy in Zagreb.
- Calls for accountability from Croatian authorities.
- Emphasized the inviolability of diplomatic premises under the Vienna Convention.
- PM Modi's visit to Croatia highlighted strong bilateral relations and cooperation.
- Both nations agreed to enhance collaboration in various sectors.
Zagreb/New Delhi, Jan 22 (NationPress) India has voiced its strong disapproval regarding the recent incident of trespassing and vandalism at its Embassy in Zagreb, Croatia, carried out by elements opposed to India. The Indian government has engaged with Croatian authorities, demanding accountability for the unacceptable and illegal actions of the perpetrators.
In an official statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated, "We condemn the incident of trespassing and vandalism at our Embassy in Zagreb, Croatia by anti-India elements. According to the Vienna Convention, diplomatic premises are inviolable and must be safeguarded. We have taken this matter seriously with the Croatian authorities in both New Delhi and Zagreb, calling for accountability for these reprehensible acts."
The statement further emphasized, "Such actions reveal the motives and character of those responsible, and law enforcement agencies everywhere should take note. Some social media reports indicate that Khalistani activists were involved in vandalizing the Indian Embassy in Zagreb just before the Republic Day visit of European Union leaders to New Delhi."
During his visit to Zagreb last year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed gratitude to Croatia for its support in India's fight against terrorism, marking a significant milestone in bilateral relations during the historic visit—the first by an Indian Prime Minister to Croatia.
PM Modi engaged in fruitful discussions with Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic in Zagreb, examining the full range of India-Croatia relations and identifying areas to strengthen collaboration in sectors such as digital technologies, space, renewable energy, defense, maritime infrastructure, tourism, and hospitality.
Highlighting the shared values of democracy, rule of law, pluralism, and equality between India and Croatia, PM Modi acknowledged Croatia's steadfast support in combating cross-border terrorism. Both leaders also advocated for enhancing strategic ties between India and the EU.
"We agree that terrorism poses a threat to humanity and challenges the principles of democracy. We are immensely thankful to Prime Minister Plenkovic and the Croatian government for their condolences following the terrorist attack in India on April 22. In challenging times, the backing of our friendly nations is invaluable," PM Modi remarked after the delegation-level discussions in June 2025.
He further stated that both nations have committed to enhancing cooperation across various sectors to bolster bilateral trade and establish reliable supply chains.
"We will foster collaboration in pharmaceuticals, agriculture, information technology, clean technology, digital technology, renewable energy, and semiconductors. Additionally, cooperation in shipbuilding and cybersecurity will be amplified," PM Modi concluded.