A future filled with opportunities for cooperation and growth for Vietnam and Croatia: Croatian FM
WVR - According to Croatian Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Gordan Grlic Radman, three decades of Croatia-Vietnam diplomatic relations mark the celebration of a strong friendship, cooperation and mutual prosperity.
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| Minister of Foreign and European Affairs of Croatia Gordan Grlic Radman. (Source: Sarajevo Times) |
On the occasion of the 30th anniversary of Vietnam-Croatia diplomatic relations (July 1, 1994-2024), The World & Viet Nam Report conducted an interview with Croatian Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Gordan Grlic Radman on the opportunities and potential to advance bilateral cooperation in fields of the countries’ respective strengths.
The significant milestone presents a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the journey of Vietnam's and Croatia's bilateral ties and highlight our achievements together. So, over the past 30 years, how would you describe the evolution of the diplomatic relationship between Croatia and Vietnam?
Three decades of our diplomatic relations mark the celebration of a strong friendship, cooperation and mutual prosperity.
Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1994, Croatia and Vietnam have been continuously working on strengthening bilateral ties across various sectors. Our diplomatic relations have evolved significantly and today Vietnam represents an important partner for Croatia. We truly appreciate that Vietnam has continuously recognized Croatia as a partner with a great potential, too.
As we celebrate this significant milestone, we look forward to building on our achievements and exploring new avenues for cooperation.
At a recent meeting on the occasion of the Ministerial Council Meeting of Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) in France, Minister Bui Thanh Son discussed the relationship between the two countries. What key achievements or milestones in the relationship between our two countries would you like to highlight?
Regular high-level visits and meetings play a crucial role in enhancing mutual understanding and cooperation. After the visit of President Mesić to Vietnam in 2008, I particularly welcome a positive momentum in our political and diplomatic relations over the past few years. Notable examples are the visit of the Vice President Vo Thi Anh Xuan to Croatia in October 2022, the political consultations between our Foreign Ministries in 2023 and 2024 and also my recent meeting with the Minister Bui Thanh Son in France.
Over the years, our trade volume has steadily increased, reflecting the dynamic economic exchanges between our countries. We have taken measures to facilitate trade and investment, while promoting a favorable environment for businesses to thrive. An especially important achievement in this regard is the Agreement on the Avoidance of Double Taxation, which was signed in October 2018 and entered into force in 2019.
The future of Croatia and Vietnam depends on strong investments and innovation, further economic integration and regional security and stability.
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| Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son meets Croatian Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Gordan Grlic Radman on the sidelines of the OECD’s Ministerial Council Meeting in Paris on May 2, 2024. (Photo: Tuan Anh) |
Regarding economic cooperation, what sectors do you see as having the most potential for future collaboration between Croatia and Vietnam?
The potential for strengthening our economic cooperation is very high. First of all, let me highlight the need for better transport connections, greater volume of mutual investments and joint economic projects. Croatia has a favorable geographic position in Europe, our advantage is the proximity to the most important EU business and trade centers, where the potential of the Croatian seaports (Rijeka, Zadar, Ploče) can play a significant role in trade between Vietnam and Europe, especially in container traffic. The Port of Rijeka and its transport route offers quality port services permanently harmonized with the latest world market demands as well as competitive transport routes from and to the countries of Central and Southeast Europe.
Great potential for cooperation also lies in the railway infrastructure and other construction projects, mechanical and electrical engineering, shipbuilding, defense industry, agro and food processing industries. Also, we consider the ICT industry, digitalization, chemical and pharmaceutical industries as highly productive and fast growing. A high potential for cooperation also exists in exploration and exploitation of energy, renewable sources in particular. We are very pleased that many Croatian companies already operate with success in Vietnam.
It is well known that Croatia has a highly developed tourism sector and we are very pleased with the increase in the numbers of Vietnamese tourists that visit Croatia. Great opportunities exist in the domain of management of maritime resources and tourist infrastructure (eg. marinas, supply of yachts, education and training of personnel), where Croatia is ready to share its experiences and know-how.
Croatia could be a crucial partner for the Vietnamese entry into the EU market, while Vietnam could be the base for the economic participation of Croatia in Southeast Asia. Of course, we are looking forward to further increases of Vietnamese investments in Croatia.
As mentioned, the potential is great, the benefits mutual, the circumstances favorable, therefore we expect next major steps in our economic cooperation.
Cultural and people-to-people exchange are an essential aspect of diplomatic relations. Could you tell us about any upcoming cultural initiatives or programs between Croatia and Vietnam?
Croatia and Vietnam have good cultural exchange relationships, which can be extended in the future. Cooperation is achieved through direct contacts between artists and professionals in the field of culture and art.
For instance, an example of cultural cooperation between our two countries is the event that the Croatian Embassy is organizing in 2024. The Embassy plans to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Croatia and Vietnam by organizing a cultural event in Hanoi.
As part of the artistic concept Project Ilica - Q'ART, which is being held for the last eight years, the festival will be held in Zagreb on July 7, 2024 with the support and involvement of the Croatian Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs. As part of the festival, the Ambassador of the Republic of Vietnam, H.E. Nguyen Thi Bich Thao, will give a speech, and the guests will present their culture through several performances, an exhibition of artistic photographs, their traditional products, traditional food and through a children's calligraphy workshop. The key goals of the project are the use of culture and art, as well as creative and cultural activities as drivers of the revitalization of urban areas.
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| Port of Rijeka, Croatia. (Source: Luka Rijeka) |
How do you see the future of Croatia-Vietnam relations in the next 3 decades and more and what message would you like to convey to the people of Vietnam on this special occasion?
Looking ahead to the next 30 years and beyond, I am optimistic about the future of our bilateral relations, envisioning even greater cooperation and mutual prosperity.
We are committed to building on our economic successes, focusing on increasing trade and investments. We look forward to increasing our cultural, scientific and educational exchanges and fostering deeper understanding and friendship between our peoples. By working together in multilateral fora, we will also aim to address global challenges and contribute to a more equitable and sustainable world.
I would also like to underscore the value of regional cooperation and political dialogue, which is why Croatia is considering acceding to the Treaty on Amity and Cooperation in the South-East Asia (TAC). We would very much appreciate Vietnam’s support in this regard, when the time comes.
We also see significant potentials in further strengthening EU-Vietnam partnership and cooperation, both bilaterally and within the framework of EU-ASEAN relations. We are pleased that Croatia has signed both the Free Trade Agreement and the Investment Protection Agreement in 2019. Bearing in mind its importance for both sides, the Free Trade Agreement applies from 1 August 2020, after its smooth ratification. It is important to mention that Croatia is also one of the 17 EU Member States that already ratified the Investment Protection Agreement. Although Croatia ratified the Agreement in 2021, it will only enter into force once all the Member States ratify it. These agreements will undoubtedly elevate two-way trade and investments to new heights.
On this special occasion, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the people of Vietnam. The enduring friendship between Croatia and Vietnam underscores the strength of our mutual respect. As we celebrate these achievements, let us anticipate a future filled with opportunities for cooperation and growth.
Thank you!
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