Europe Asia News

Prime Minister Plenkovic met with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz.

Plenkovic highlighted the existence of close relations with Germany within the framework of the EU, NATO, and other international organizations, stating: "In the first ten months of 2025, goods trade reached 8.2 billion euros (8% increase) and we continue to strengthen defense cooperation, especially in the context of the recently signed contract for the delivery of 44 Leopard 2A8 tanks."

Plenkovic also discussed the future of the EU enlargement process and the provision of a European perspective to South East European countries, stating: "This is an area that the European Union must not neglect or allow to be influenced by other global actors."

Plenkovic later met with Latvian Prime Minister Evika Silina.

Plenkovic noted that Croatia and Latvia hold complementary positions on a range of European issues, adding: "We continue to build excellent relations within the framework of the Three Seas Initiative (3SI), which is currently chaired by Croatia. Together with Latvia and the Netherlands, we are leading the Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Coalition as part of efforts to strengthen Europe's defense."

During the negotiations on the Multiannual Financial Framework (2028-2034), Plenkovic highlighted the importance of close cooperation, especially in the policy of harmonization and ensuring adequate funding for agriculture, while also emphasizing the importance of demographic renewal as a strategic priority for Europe.