Croatia advocates joint European response to global challenges – Ukraine, Middle East, Indo-Pacific the focus of FAC discussion

Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Gordan Grlić Radman participated on Monday, 20 October 2025, in the meeting of the European Union’s Foreign Affairs Council (FAC) held in Luxembourg.
 
The Council’s agenda focused on key global issues - Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, the situation in the Middle East, and the European Union’s relations with countries in the Indo-Pacific region.
 
Addressing Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, Grlić Radman reaffirmed Croatia’s steadfast and strong support for Ukraine, as well as the importance of a united and determined European response in defending international law. In this context, ministers discussed preparations for a new, nineteenth package of sanctions against Russia. Croatia fully supports the continued unity of the European Union and the effectiveness of sanctions, alongside the ongoing political and military assistance to Ukraine.
 
During the discussion on the Middle East, the minister welcomed the peace plan proposed by the U.S. President Donald Trump, and emphasized the need for a coordinated European approach in supporting peace efforts and alleviating the humanitarian situation in Gaza. Croatia supports all diplomatic efforts that can contribute to a just and sustainable peace, in line with the UN Charter and the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine, ensuring transparency of the process and the inclusion of Ukraine in all relevant stages.
 
Grlić Radman also underlined the need to strengthen the European Union’s cooperation with Indo-Pacific countries, particularly in light of recent bilateral visits and the forthcoming EU-Indo-Pacific Ministerial Forum. He stressed the importance of strategic partnership and open dialogue with a region of growing global significance. The minister also informed his colleagues about his recent visit to the Philippines and his upcoming trip to Indonesia.

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