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Italy and Croatia Strengthen Bilateral Relations and EU Integration Efforts
Published: 2026/02/01 01:20:36
Strengthening Ties Between Rome and Zagreb
Recent meetings in Zagreb between Italian and Croatian officials underscore the growing collaboration and positive relationship between the two countries. Italian Vice Premier and Minister of Foreign Affairs antonio Tajani met with Croatian Foreign Minister Gordan Grlić Radman and Prime Minister Andrej Plenković, focusing on bilateral relations and regional cooperation. Italian Ambassador to Croatia, Paolo Trichilo, highlighted the strong partnership, noting a lack of important issues and a commitment to continued collaboration.
Croatia’s Growing Role in european Institutions
A key point of discussion was the recent appointment of Boris Vujčić as Vice President of the European Central Bank (ECB), taking office in June 2026. Italy has publicly supported Vujčić’s nomination, with Italian Economy and Finance Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti congratulating him on the prestigious position.European Central Bank. This appointment signifies Croatia’s increasing integration into key European institutions following its adoption of the Euro in January 2023. Reuters – Croatia Adopts Euro
Italy’s Support for Croatia’s OECD Membership
Italy has been a strong advocate for Croatia’s membership in the Organisation for economic Co-operation and Advancement (OECD). The presence of OECD Secretary-General Mathias Cormann in Zagreb during the meetings demonstrates the institution’s active engagement with Croatia’s accession process.OECD website. Croatia officially became a member of the OECD on January 1, 2024. OECD - Croatia Becomes 38th Member
Focus on Western Balkans Integration
Discussions also centered on the European integration of the Western Balkans. Both Italy and Croatia reaffirmed their commitment to supporting progress towards EU membership for countries in the region. Italy will host a further meeting of the “Friends of the Western Balkans” group next month,with Croatia invited to participate. This initiative aims to foster stability and accelerate the EU accession process for these nations. The Western Balkans region includes Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia. european External Action Service – Western Balkans
future Cooperation
Both countries are committed to continuing bilateral cooperation at various levels, including foreign ministries and government-to-government engagements, building on the momentum of Prime Minister Plenković’s visit to Rome in November 2025. This ongoing dialogue aims to address shared challenges and opportunities, further solidifying the strong relationship between Italy and Croatia.
Key Takeaways:
- Italy and Croatia enjoy a strong and collaborative bilateral relationship.
- Italy supports Croatia’s increasing role within European institutions, including the ECB and OECD.
- Both nations are dedicated to promoting the European integration of the Western Balkans.
- continued dialogue and cooperation are planned at all levels of government.
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