Croatian PM invites Canadian investors, touts country as Europe's gateway

Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković urged Canadian business leaders to view Croatia as a strategic gateway to Central Europe during his visit to Canada. He emphasized the country's stable environment, adherence to the rule of law, and investor-friendly policies.

Plenković presented Croatia's current economic and political landscape, noting its recent accession to the Schengen Area and the Eurozone. He highlighted that all three major credit rating agencies provide favorable assessments of Croatia. Furthermore, he stated that Croatia is on the verge of joining the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), describing it as a final step in aligning with high standards of governance and anti-corruption efforts.

During his address, Plenković pointed to significant economic progress, stating that Croatia's GDP has nearly doubled from 47 billion to 93 billion euros since he took office. GDP per capita has risen from 11,000 to 24,000 euros. He also noted that the unemployment rate is below the natural level, necessitating the import of 120,000 to 150,000 foreign workers to meet labor demands in sectors like hospitality, construction, and transport. Investments in transport and digital infrastructure were also discussed, aiming for balanced regional development.

Additionally, a Memorandum of Understanding on the use of civil nuclear energy was signed between the Croatian and Canadian governments. Plenković stressed Europe's energy vulnerability due to high import reliance for oil, gas, and coal, positioning Croatia as part of a European nuclear alliance and highlighting the need for increased investment in renewables.

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This is like the final step in bringing your house in order, in terms of the rule of law, in terms of anti-corruption activities, in terms of high standards that a country, which was now among the 38 most advanced economies in the world, should have.