China and Croatia Discuss Strengthening Cooperation and Bilateral Ties

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Croatian Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Gordan Grlic Radman in Beijing on Monday. Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, highlighted the mutual respect, equality, and beneficial cooperation between the two nations. He noted the successful outcomes of their high-quality Belt and Road cooperation.

Wang emphasized that this year marks the 20th anniversary of the comprehensive cooperative partnership between China and Croatia. He encouraged increased exchanges at all levels, fostering mutual understanding and trust. He also advocated for continued support and respect, further aligning the Belt and Road Initiative with Croatia's development strategies, and deepening cooperation across various sectors.

Wang stated that cooperation between China and Central and Eastern European Countries is a significant aspect of China-EU relations. He expressed China's willingness to strengthen cooperation with Croatia based on openness, transparency, and mutual benefit. He urged both sides to enhance multilateral coordination and cooperation, upholding multilateralism and free trade to address global challenges.

Acknowledging the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and the EU, Wang emphasized the importance of a stable, healthy, and positive China-EU relationship. He expressed China's hope that Croatia would continue to play a constructive role in promoting China-EU cooperation.

Radman acknowledged the progress in cooperation between the two countries over the past 30 years, built on mutual respect and benefit. He affirmed Croatia's adherence to the one-China policy, recognizing the People's Republic of China as the sole legal government of China and Taiwan as an integral part of its territory. Croatia looks forward to maintaining close high-level exchanges with China, strengthening cooperation in trade, investment, and connectivity, and welcoming more Chinese visitors.

Radman recognized China as a crucial economic and trade partner for Europe. He stated Croatia's support for resolving specific differences between the EU and China through constructive dialogue, promoting the sustainable development of EU-China relations. He also noted that China-CEEC cooperation is a beneficial platform for economic, trade, and investment cooperation, and Croatia is willing to continue its active support and participation.

Radman concluded by highlighting Croatia's appreciation for China's role in promoting world peace and its willingness to strengthen multilateral cooperation with China.