Croatia emerges as regional energy hub

(Photo: Vlada Republike Hrvatske)

Croatia has reinforced its position as a regional energy hub following the Three Seas Initiative Summit held in Dubrovnik, marking a decade since the initiative’s founding.

Prime Minister Andrej Plenković highlighted Croatia’s efforts during its presidency to strengthen cooperation among the 13 EU member states involved.

The initiative focuses on improving connectivity between the Baltic, Black and Adriatic seas, with emphasis on infrastructure, transport, energy and digital transformation.

Speaking after the summit, Plenković stressed that enhanced north-south connectivity across Central and Eastern Europe is vital, particularly in the context of global challenges such as the ongoing war in Ukraine, instability in the Middle East and resulting energy pressures.

A key outcome of the summit was the signing of an agreement on the Southern Gas Interconnection between Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The project will enable gas transport from the LNG terminal on Krk island to Bosnia and Herzegovina, via southern Croatia, reinforcing the country’s role as a regional energy gateway.

The summit also marked Italy’s first participation as a strategic partner, reflecting efforts to broaden international cooperation. In addition, representatives from major global financial institutions attended, underlining strong backing for future investment.

Plenković noted that the initiative represents a dynamic part of the European Union, accounting for nearly one-third of its population and showing strong economic growth potential. He added that improved cooperation could enhance resilience to crises and drive further development across the region.

The adoption of the Dubrovnik Declaration provides a framework for continued collaboration, with Slovakia set to take over the presidency.

Significant interest from the private sector was evident, with over 1,500 business representatives and more than 700 companies from 40 countries attending the accompanying business forum.

This highlights growing investor confidence in Central and Eastern Europe as a key driver of continental growth.

Plenković also underlined the importance of transatlantic relations, stressing that the United States remains a key partner for Europe.

As a NATO member, Croatia sees continued cooperation with Washington as essential for maintaining peace and stability across the continent.

He noted that the modern European framework has been significantly shaped by US engagement since the Second World War, adding that current tensions in transatlantic communication are likely temporary.

Both sides, he said, are expected to continue working towards a strong and stable partnership, particularly in areas such as energy and security.