A Historic First: Croatia’s Official Visit to Manila
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. warmly welcomed Gordan Grlić Radman, Croatia’s Minister of Foreign and European Affairs, as Croatia’s foreign minister makes the Philippines the first stop for an official visit. The courtesy call at Malacañang on October 14 underscored a new chapter in the long-standing ties between the two nations, highlighted by the opening of Croatia’s office in the Philippines and a broader bilateral agenda.
Opening a New Chapter: The Croatian Office in Manila
In remarks to his envoy’s delegation, President Marcos described Radman’s visit as a pivotal moment, noting that the opening of Croatia’s office in Manila signals closer coordination and a more visible diplomatic footprint. “Welcome to the Philippines, especially at this very important time,” the President said, framing the moment as a reinforcement of shared values and mutual respect in international law.
The Croatian minister echoed the sentiment, thanking the Filipino people for the warm reception and stressing that the partnership with the Philippines rests on “shared values and mutual respect for international law.” The meeting, accompanied by a joint statement from Croatia’s Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs, reiterated a commitment to dialogue, stability, and a broader agenda of economic and people-to-people cooperation.
Trade, Defense, and Labor: A Growing Partnership
Radman’s visit, spanning October 12 to 14, brought him into discussions with several Philippine authorities, including the secretaries of foreign affairs, national defense, and migrant workers, as well as members of Congress. The discussions centered on expanding cooperation across multiple fronts—trade, defense, and labor—reflecting a rapid expansion of the bilateral relationship beyond traditional diplomacy.
President Marcos highlighted the potential for enhanced trade and defense collaboration, signaling a “new chapter” in relations that could bring tangible benefits in technology exchange, security dialogue, and economic partnerships. The visit also aligned with ongoing efforts to broaden people-to-people links and regional dialogue, reinforcing the Philippines’ role as a hub for Southeast Asian and European partnerships.
Migrant Workers: Ethical Recruitment and Welfare
A notable facet of the engagements was the Philippines–Croatia Friendship Week, inaugurated at the Ministry of Migrant Workers by Radman and State Secretary Ivan Vidiš, alongside Philippine officials. Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac joined the ceremony to emphasize the importance of ethical recruitment practices and the welfare of overseas Filipino workers in Croatia. The discussions aimed to ensure fair, safe, and dignified employment opportunities for Filipino workers abroad, reflecting shared concerns for migrant welfare and labor standards.
Defense Prospects and Regional Cooperation
Defence Secretary Gilbert Teodoro also met with Radman to explore future cooperation in the defense sector. Potential areas include technology exchange, defense industry partnerships, and dialogue that can support regional security. Croatia’s involvement in international defense discussions and its upcoming exhibitions were highlighted as opportunities to deepen collaboration and showcase innovations in defense technology.
Diplomatic Dialogue and Public Diplomacy
Beyond ministerial talks, Radman’s Manila itinerary included meetings with European Union Ambassador Mariamassimo Santoro and Apostolic Nuncio Archbishop Charles J. Brown, illustrating a broad approach to diplomacy that encompasses regional and international dimensions. The Croatian team emphasized that these engagements contribute to a shared vision of stability and constructive international cooperation in the region.
From Diplomatic Ties to People-to-People Ties
The two countries formally established diplomatic relations on February 25, 1993. The current visit marks a modernization of ties—from formal diplomacy to concrete programs that improve economic exchange, labor mobility, and security cooperation. The opening of the Honorary Consulate of the Republic of Croatia in Manila during Radman’s visit was described by President Marcos as a milestone that would “further strengthen diplomatic and people-to-people ties” between Croatia and the Philippines.
Outlook: A United Path Forward
As the first official visit by a Croatian foreign minister to the Philippines concludes, both sides appear committed to turning this momentum into sustained collaboration. The executives and ministers involved outlined concrete steps that could yield mutual gains in trade, defense, and labor standards. With the Philippines and Croatia seeking broader regional dialogue, the partnership stands ready to expand, reflecting a shared belief in cooperation, lawful conduct, and the importance of people-to-people connections.
