China-Croatia Foreign Ministers Meet to Strengthen Diplomatic Ties

The rhythm of diplomatic drums quickened in Beijing this week as Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Croatia’s Foreign Minister Gordan Grlić Radman cemented a strategic vision for bilateral cooperation. Their high-stakes talks, held against the backdrop of dual anniversaries, signal a robust future for China Croatia relations anchored in mutual respect and ambitious economic synergy.

China Croatia relations

Deepening Diplomatic Foundations

Marking 20 years as comprehensive cooperative partners, both ministers highlighted a relationship built on equality and tangible results. Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, emphasized the “fruitful outcomes” of Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) projects linking the two nations. He urged deeper political trust, high-level exchanges, and tighter alignment between China’s BRI and Croatia’s national development strategies.

Minister Radman reaffirmed Croatia’s unwavering commitment to the One-China policy, explicitly stating: “The government of the People’s Republic of China is the sole legal government representing China, and Taiwan is an inalienable part of China’s territory.” Croatia also welcomed increased Chinese tourism and investment, signaling openness to expanded trade and infrastructure collaboration.

EU-China Dynamics and CEEC Cooperation

With 2024 marking 50 years of EU-China diplomatic ties, Wang Yi framed Croatia as a crucial bridgebuilder. He stressed that “a stable, healthy EU-China relationship aligns with fundamental interests of both sides,” urging Zagreb to champion constructive dialogue. Radman reciprocated, labeling China “Europe’s indispensable economic partner” and endorsing the China-Central and Eastern European Countries (CEEC) framework as vital for regional trade.

Notably, Radman pledged Croatia’s “active support” for CEEC cooperation, positioning it as a stabilizer amid broader EU-China negotiations. Both ministers committed to upholding multilateralism and jointly addressing global challenges—a nod to Croatia’s support for China’s peace-building initiatives cited by Radman.

The Beijing summit crystallizes a partnership evolving from symbolic goodwill to actionable strategy. For Croatia—a NATO and EU member—this balancing act underscores its unique geopolitical value. For China, it’s a strategic foothold in Europe’s gateway. As global fractures widen, resilient China Croatia relations offer a template for pragmatic cross-continental cooperation.

Must Know

Q: What’s the significance of the 2024 China-Croatia meeting?
A: It marks 20 years of their comprehensive partnership and aligns Croatia’s development goals with China’s Belt and Road Initiative. Both nations pledged to escalate trade, tourism, and political coordination.

Q: How does Croatia view Taiwan’s status?
A: Croatia explicitly reaffirmed the One-China policy, recognizing Beijing as China’s sole legitimate government and declaring Taiwan “inalienable” Chinese territory.

Q: What role does Croatia play in EU-China relations?
A: As an EU member, Croatia positions itself as a mediator, advocating “constructive dialogue” to resolve EU-China differences while endorsing China as Europe’s “indispensable” economic partner.

Q: How does the China-CEEC framework benefit Croatia?
A: Croatia views this platform as essential for boosting investments and trade. Minister Radman confirmed Croatia’s ongoing participation, highlighting its “beneficial” economic impact.