Minister Grlić Radman attends FAC

Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Gordan Grlić Radman participated on Monday, 16 March 2026, in Brussels in a meeting of the EU Foreign Affairs Council (FAC).
 
During the meeting, ministers discussed Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, including an exchange of views with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, Andrii Sybiha, via videoconference. Grlić Radman emphasized that the Republic of Croatia continues to strongly support Ukraine and endorses its further integration into the European defence and industrial ecosystem. He also underlined the contribution of Member States with post-conflict experience, such as Croatia, in areas including demining, reconstruction, security sector reform, and the reintegration of liberated territories.
 
In the context of discussions on Ukraine, the minister highlighted in his statements to the media the importance of energy diversification. He noted that many EU Member State ministers particularly underscored that Croatia’s JANAF oil pipeline represents a primary and reliable supply route for Central and South-Eastern Europe, confirming Croatia’s recognition as an energy hub.
 
Ministers also discussed the latest developments in the Middle East and the broader regional implications of the conflict. Member States condemned Iranian attacks on Gulf countries, warned of the risk of further escalation, and highlighted risks to global energy security, while expressing support for Gulf partners and promoting diplomatic solutions aimed at de-escalation.
 
Within the discussion on EU relations with the Southern Neighbourhood, ministers exchanged views on the implementation of the Pact for the Mediterranean. Grlić Radman emphasized its importance across economic, security, and social dimensions, including education, mobility, and people-to-people cooperation, stressing the interest of Croatian institutions in participating in a range of projects under the Pact.
 
On the margins of FAC, discussions were held on the new European Security Strategy, while a working lunch provided an opportunity for an exchange of views with the Minister of External Affairs of India, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, on the implementation of key outcomes of the EU-India Summit, foreign and security policy priorities, and energy security in the context of the Middle East crisis.
 
On the eve of the meeting, Sunday, 15 March 2026, Grlić Radman hosted an informal ministerial dinner on the occasion of Croatia’s presidency of the Three Seas Initiative. Discussions focused on strengthening regional connectivity, energy security, and the development of digital and transport infrastructure between the north and south of Europe. Views were also exchanged on links with global economic corridors - particularly towards Asia - and on the importance of attracting private capital and investment in strategic infrastructure.

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