Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Gordan Grlić Radman started his official visit to the Holy See on Wednesday with a general audience with Pope Francis, after which he held talks with the Secretary for Relations with States, Archbishop Paul Gallagher.
Grlić Radman and Gallagher confirmed the traditionally strong ties between Croatia and the Vatican, which go way back and are underpinned by the intensive dynamic of high-level visits. “We will always be grateful to the Holy See for its role in the international recognition of Croatia and for supporting Croatia’s EU accession,” the minister said, underscoring he was pleased that his visit coincided with the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Croatia and the Vatican. The ministry has published a booklet for this occasion, which the minister will present to the Holy See’s officials.
Grlić Radman and Gallagher also discussed topical matters such as the war in Ukraine, the situation in Southeast Europe and Croatia’s Schengen entry. Both officials agreed that European perspective was necessary for maintaining stability in Europe’s southeast. The minister underlined the importance of a stable, functioning and EU-oriented Bosnia and Herzegovina, where all three constituent nations are equal and justly politically represented, for the stability in the region. He added that the Vatican’s spiritual leadership in a world full of challenges was needed now more than ever.
The minister thanked the archbishop for his involvement in the Agreement on Caritas of the Catholic Church in Croatia, signed in March this year by the Croatian government and the Croatian Episcopal Conference.
“The document will additionally strengthen all humanitarian and social activities in Croatia, in line with the Christian values and the principle of solidarity,” he said.
Grlić Radman and Gallagher also discussed Alojzije Stepinac, with the minister underscoring the strong bond between the Church and Croatian people and Stepinac’s life and martyrdom. Next year marks the 70th anniversary of Stepinac’s being named a cardinal and the 25th anniversary of his beatification.
During the first day of his visit to the Holy See, Grlić Radman also visited the Vatican Library and the Pontifical Teutonic College of Santa Maria in Camposanto. As part of the visit, the traditional sword dance Moreška, performed by the Croatian Music Society St. Cecilia from Korčula, was held at Santi Apostoli.
Press releases
