Modi becomes first Indian PM to visit Croatia, boosts diaspora and diplomacy
In a landmark diplomatic move, Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Zagreb, Croatia, marking the first-ever visit by an Indian Prime Minister to the country. This historic stop comes as part of Modi’s multi-nation European tour, following his engagements at the G7 Summit in Canada and bilateral talks in Cyprus. The visit not only represents a new chapter in India-Croatia relations but also underscores India’s growing strategic outreach in Central and Eastern Europe.
A short while ago, landed in Zagreb, Croatia. This is a special visit, the first ever by an Indian Prime Minister to a valued European partner. I am grateful to Prime Minister Andrej Plenković for the special gesture of welcoming me at the airport.@AndrejPlenkovic pic.twitter.com/1qlA8sca1V
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 18, 2025
The highlight of Modi’s arrival was an emotionally charged interaction with members of the Indian diaspora in Croatia. From cultural students to business leaders, the community turned out in large numbers, offering a grand and enthusiastic welcome. Their sentiment was summed up by one member: “It felt like the entire nation came here to receive him.”
Modi’s Warm Welcome in Zagreb Highlights Power of the Indian Diaspora
Upon landing in Zagreb, PM Modi was greeted with applause, chants, and heartfelt gestures by the Indian community living in Croatia. This enthusiastic reception showcased the deep-rooted emotional connect that the diaspora shares with India. Members of the community expressed pride in India’s growing global stature under Modi’s leadership, particularly praising initiatives such as International Yoga Day and India’s digital transformation.
What made this interaction unique was the diverse composition of the crowd. Among them were Croatian students learning Hindi, young professionals promoting Indian culture, and longtime residents who have witnessed the evolution of India’s global diplomacy. This powerful moment reflected Modi’s consistent effort to connect with the diaspora, whom he calls “India’s cultural ambassadors abroad.”
The Prime Minister acknowledged their contributions and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring their well-being, wherever they are in the world. Such diaspora interactions have increasingly become a core element of India’s foreign diplomacy playbook under the Modi government.
India-Croatia Relations Poised for Boost in Trade, Culture, and Diplomacy
PM Modi’s visit is more than symbolic—it sets the tone for a strategic upgrade in India-Croatia relations. Bilateral talks are expected with Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković and President Zoran Milanović. The discussions will likely cover areas like digital innovation, education exchange, renewable energy, defense cooperation, and cultural collaboration.
Croatia, a gateway to Europe’s central corridor, is emerging as a valuable partner for India in its broader European outreach. Currently, the two nations share modest trade volumes, but the potential for growth is significant. India’s interest in diversifying its global partnerships post-COVID and amid global supply chain realignments makes Croatia a timely strategic partner.
Cultural ties, too, are set to deepen. The presence of Hindi language students and cultural enthusiasts in Croatia signals strong people-to-people engagement. With Modi’s emphasis on cultural diplomacy, initiatives like yoga festivals, film screenings, and language exchange programs are likely to follow.
