Croatia and Poland to deepen defence ties

(Photo: MORH/ F. Klen)

WARSAW, 8 May 2025 – Croatia and Poland are poised to strengthen their defence partnership through closer cooperation between their respective defence industries, following high-level talks in Warsaw today.

During an official working visit to Poland, Croatia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, Ivan Anušić, and the Chief of the General Staff of the Croatian Armed Forces, Lieutenant General Tihomir Kundid, met with Poland’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence, Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz.

The bilateral meeting reaffirmed the strong relationship between the two countries, particularly in the fields of security and defence. Both ministers agreed on enhancing cooperation through direct links between Croatian and Polish defence companies.

This initiative aims to foster joint development and collaboration, ultimately contributing to regional stability and shared security.

“Croatians and Poles share many values, and we want to clearly send a message of unity from today’s meeting,” said Minister Anušić. “Our discussions were highly constructive, with a strong focus on practical steps in the field of defence and security.”

(Photo: MORH/ F. Klen)

Minister Anušić revealed that Poland’s Defence Minister is expected to visit Zagreb within the next two months. During that visit, a Letter of Intent will be signed to formally raise the level of cooperation between the two nations, particularly through connecting their defence industries.

Speaking about wider geopolitical threats, Anušić highlighted the importance of readiness and cooperation in addressing rising security challenges: “Threats from the East must be taken seriously. We must be prepared to deter.”

He also praised Poland’s rapid military development, noting the Croatian people’s respect for Poland’s determination and responsibility in becoming a major military force in a short time.

(Photo: MORH/ F. Klen)

Reflecting on Croatia’s own past, Anušić drew a parallel between current global threats and the Croatian War of Independence in the 1990s: “Today’s situation reminds me of the 1990s, when we had to defend our own independence. We emerged victorious in 1995, and I hope no nation will ever have to face such a conflict again – but we must be ready.”

He concluded with a message of solidarity: “Croatia and Poland, shaped by history and united by modern threats, fully understand one another. We continue to strengthen our defence and security cooperation together.”

(Photo: MORH/ F. Klen)

Polish Defence Minister Kosiniak-Kamysz expressed gratitude for Croatia’s contributions to NATO missions and operations, emphasising the shared security goals and values between the two nations.