On November 5, 2024, the Kingdom of Cambodia and the Republic of Croatia took a significant step forward in diplomatic relations as H.E. Mr. Khuon Phon Rattanak, Secretary of State of Cambodia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, and H.E. Mr. Frano Matušić, State Secretary of Croatia’s Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs, co-chaired the first session of bilateral consultations in Zagreb. This historic meeting marked the beginning of a deeper diplomatic dialogue, setting the stage for enhanced cooperation across multiple sectors and laying a strong foundation for future collaboration.
The consultations highlighted the mutual commitment of both nations to strengthen diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties. During the discussions, the co-chairs underscored the importance of these consultations as a framework for fostering mutual understanding and shared objectives. Both leaders recognized that their countries’ post-conflict journeys toward recovery offer unique parallels, each placing a premium on peacebuilding and human capital development as essential pillars for sustainable growth. The shared experience of overcoming adversity provides a powerful common ground that can inform cooperation on initiatives for socio-economic development and cultural exchange.
A key topic of conversation was the long-term potential for collaboration between Cambodia and Croatia in trade, tourism, education, and investment. With the growth of Cambodia’s economy and Croatia’s increasing integration within the European Union, both countries stand to benefit from enhanced economic ties. The consultation underscored a vision for mutual growth, aiming to create a diversified portfolio of projects and programs that benefit both Cambodian and Croatian citizens. Discussions explored ways to facilitate this, from easing visa processes for visitors to establishing mechanisms for knowledge exchange in areas like sustainable development and cultural preservation.
In addition to co-chairing the bilateral consultations, H.E. Mr. Khuon Phon Rattanak led the Cambodian delegation on a strategic visit to Rijeka Port, one of Croatia’s primary maritime hubs. Rijeka Port, with its key position on the Adriatic Sea, serves as a critical access point for trade and commerce in Central and Eastern Europe. During the visit, Mr. Rattanak engaged in productive discussions with Mr. Denis Vukorepa, Executive Director of Rijeka Port, to identify potential areas of cooperation. Both leaders expressed enthusiasm for exploring partnerships that could enhance connectivity between Cambodia’s ports and Rijeka Port, with an eye toward facilitating more efficient trade routes and expanding Cambodia’s access to European markets.
The Cambodian delegation was presented with a comprehensive overview of Rijeka Port’s ongoing and planned projects, including its infrastructure expansion and modernization efforts. This presentation provided valuable insights into Croatia’s maritime logistics capabilities, showcasing cutting-edge technologies and innovations that could serve as a model for Cambodian ports. By fostering collaboration in maritime logistics and infrastructure development, Cambodia and Croatia aim to enhance their connectivity and boost trade efficiency, benefiting businesses and economies on both sides.
The inaugural consultations also provided a timely opportunity to set the stage for the 30th anniversary of Cambodia-Croatia diplomatic relations, which will be celebrated in 2026. This milestone presents a symbolic moment for both nations to reflect on their achievements and to lay down a roadmap for future collaboration. The event is expected to include cultural and economic events, further enriching the ties between the two countries and fostering greater people-to-people connections.
This consultation underscores Cambodia’s proactive approach to engaging with European nations, signaling a new chapter in Cambodia-Croatia relations. By fostering strategic partnerships and deepening diplomatic ties, Cambodia and Croatia are building a framework for sustained collaboration, creating new opportunities for growth, and reinforcing the bonds that unite their people and economies.
Source: MFAIC
