On Monday, November 25, 2024, Croatian Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Gordan Grlić Radman participated in the 10th edition of the Mediterranean Dialogues conference in Rome. This annual high-level initiative brings together representatives from governments, civil society, academia, the business community, and the media to engage in open discussions on challenges and proposals for the development of the wider Mediterranean region.
Participating in the panel discussion titled "New Commission, Old EU Priorities", Grlić Radman highlighted Croatia's role as a Mediterranean country advocating for stronger connectivity and cooperation in the Mediterranean basin. He emphasized that solutions to the region's growing challenges can only be found through joint efforts and dialogue. In this context, he pointed out that the Mediterranean, as a sensitive geopolitical environment, requires collective solutions in areas such as security, migration, climate change, and economic growth. He also stressed the importance of strengthening European presence and cooperation in the Mediterranean, particularly addressing migration issues.
Speaking about the priorities of European policies and the new mandate of the European Commission, Grlić Radman welcomed the addition of a dedicated Mediterranean portfolio, which is now under the responsibility of Croatian Commissioner Dubravka Šuica. He expressed confidence that the new Commission would continue to advocate for a partnership-based approach with Mediterranean states, grounded in mutual interest and mindful of the needs and priorities of individual countries.
"I see the Mediterranean as a region of peace, security, and stability, bearing in mind that the security, stability, and prosperity of all Europe directly depend on the situation in its neighbourhood," said Grlić Radman. He concluded by noting that, as the country with the longest external Schengen border, Croatia is making significant efforts to safeguard it against illegal migration.
Press releases
