- Published: 09.07.2022.
15th Dubrovnik Forum wraps up
The main topics of this year’s Dubrovnik Forum were far-reaching geopolitical changes caused by Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, notably concerning energy and food supply, as well as the stability and security of the Western Balkans and its European journey.
Keynote addresses were delivered by Prime Minister Andrej Plenković and Parliament Speaker Gordan Jandroković.
“Soaring energy prices push us in a position that requires concerted actions and intervention at the national levels so that our industries can be provided with the sufficient sources of energy and that households can make ends meet,” Plenković said. He added that Croatia could contribute to the energy security of its neighbours such as Austria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Hungary and Slovenia, as well as all other wishing to use the Krk LNG terminal.
The prime minister underscored the importance of the international order based on the rule of law in these challenging times. “This war is actually a conflict between democracies and authoritarian regimes and we must be aware that it is at the essence of what we are witnessing now,” he explained.
In his address, Jandroković said that alongside the green and digital transition, it is necessary to continue to stimulate food production in order to achieve self-sufficiency. “We have to strengthen our resilience, develop energy independence and turn towards new supply sources,” he underlined.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmitro Kuleba addressed the event via video message, stressing that his country was fighting not only for itself but for all of Europe, calling on partners to increase and speed up weapon deliveries. “We are in the same boat. Supporting Ukraine is not only a service to Ukrainians, it is also the most efficient investment in the national security of our partners”, he concluded.
Also addressing the event was Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Gordan Grlić Radman, who stressed the importance of the European path of the Western Balkan countries for the stability in these times of crisis. The minister highlighted Bosnia and Herzegovina as crucial for the stability and security of Southeast Europe, emphasizing the importance of respecting the Dayton Peace Agreement.
On the margins of Dubrovnik Forum, the OECD’s publication entitled “SME Policy Index: Western Balkans and Turkey 2022” was presented, with Grlić Radman underscoring the importance of Croatia’s OECD membership as well as the strengthening of cooperation with the Western Balkan countries and Turkey.