SEECP reaffirms its value as platform for political dialogue, mutual trust, regional responsibility

Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Gordan Grlić Radman participated in the meeting of the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of the South-East European Cooperation Process (SEECP), held in Sofia on Wednesday, 10 June 2026. Grlić Radman took part in the sessions entitled “A Shared Compass for a Stable, Secure and Sustainable Region - 30 Years of Regional Ownership and European Aspiration” and “Strengthening Regional Unity for a Stable, Secure and Sustainable Future - Reflecting on 30 Years of Partnership and Progress.”
 
In his address, the minister emphasized that over the past three decades, SEECP has reaffirmed its value as a platform for political dialogue, mutual trust and regional responsibility.
 
“SEECP has played an important role in fostering inclusive cooperation, reconciliation and strengthening the European perspective of South-East Europe,” the minister stated.
 
He went on to stress that Croatia will continue to support the enlargement of the European Union to the Western Balkans, as well as to Ukraine and Moldova, and stands ready to continue providing its assistance and expertise throughout the process.
 
“I therefore encourage all Western Balkan countries to remain fully committed to the accession process by meeting the established criteria, implementing the necessary reforms, aligning with EU policies and fundamental values, and fostering good-neighbourly relations. The EU-Western Balkans Summit in Tivat sent a strong political message that the Western Balkans remains high on the European agenda and that its future lies within the European Union,” said Grlić Radman.
 
Croatia’s economic and trade cooperation with SEECP participating states remains strong and continues to expand across numerous sectors. In 2025, 27 per cent of Croatia’s total trade was conducted with SEECP member states, while the country’s merchandise trade exceeded EUR 19 billion.
 
The majority of Croatia’s bilateral development assistance is directed towards the countries of the Western Balkans, with particular emphasis on Bosnia and Herzegovina. This commitment is reflected in support for Corridor Vc, the largest infrastructure project in the history of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
 
Croatia also reaffirmed its commitment to advancing sustainable and resilient infrastructure and energy solutions across all sectors. In this context, Grlić Radman highlighted the significance of the recent Summit and Business Forum of the Three Seas Initiative held in Dubrovnik, which demonstrated strong interest in strengthening regional energy connectivity and enhancing strategic cooperation on infrastructure projects, including the Ionian-Adriatic Pipeline.

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