- Published: 06.05.2026.
Croatia, Germany arrange new framework for stronger bilateral, European partnership
During talks with Minister Wadephul, both sides reaffirmed the close, friendly and partner-based relations between Croatia and Germany, founded on shared values, strong cooperation within the European Union and NATO, and an intensive political dialogue. Germany remains Croatia’s most important foreign trade partner and one of its key interlocutors in shaping European policies.
Particular emphasis was placed on further deepening bilateral cooperation, notably through the signing of a Joint Declaration on Enhanced Cooperation between Croatia and Germany, accompanied by an Action Plan for the period 2026-2030. The framework provides a clear basis for intensified cooperation in the areas of economy, energy, security, defence and European affairs. The ministers also welcomed the continued growth in economic cooperation, highlighting opportunities to further strengthen partnership in industry, digital transformation and the green transition.
The discussions also covered current European and global issues, including the importance of preserving European Union unity and strengthening its resilience and strategic autonomy. The interlocutors agreed on the importance of further developing the European security and defence dimension, in complementarity with NATO, as well as reinforcing the transatlantic partnership.
In the context of Southeast Europe, the importance of close Croatian-German cooperation in promoting regional stability and the European perspective of the region was underlined. Both sides highlighted the need to continue reforms, strengthen institutions and consistently uphold European values, while reaffirming support for the enlargement process as a strategic and geopolitical priority of the European Union.
The ministers also exchanged views on Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, reaffirming their continued and strong support for Ukraine, as well as their commitment to achieving a just and lasting peace based on international law and Ukraine’s territorial integrity.
They further discussed the situation in the Middle East, stressing the importance of avoiding further escalation and continuing diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving a sustainable solution, preserving regional stability, and ensuring the free flow of energy supplies in line with international law and relevant obligations.
In the area of security and defence, the growing cooperation between Croatia and Germany was highlighted, including the development of defence capabilities and the strengthening of the defence industry. Through these efforts, both countries contribute to enhancing Europe’s defence technological and industrial base and to strengthening overall European security.
During his stay in Berlin, Minister Grlić Radman also met with Chair of the Bundestag Foreign Affairs Committee Armin Laschet and Chair of the Bundestag Committee on European Union Affairs Anton Hofreiter. Discussions focused on further strengthening parliamentary cooperation, current political developments in Europe, and key challenges in the field of the European Union’s foreign and security policy. The interlocutors confirmed the importance of close coordination and cooperation between Croatia and Germany in addressing current geopolitical challenges and further deepening overall bilateral relations.