Plenković in Dubrovnik: This is the Biggest Moment of Cooperation with the U.S. Since the Homeland War

The recent Three Seas Initiative (3SI) summit in Dubrovnik marked a pivotal moment for Croatia and the wider Central and Eastern European region, according to Prime Minister Andrej Plenković. Hosting this significant event underscores Croatia's growing role as a regional hub for infrastructure, energy, and digital connectivity. The initiative, launched in 2016, connects 13 EU member states spanning the Baltic, Adriatic, and Black Seas, fostering economic growth and enhancing the competitiveness of a region comprising approximately 130 million people.

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This is a major step forward, not only with BiH but perhaps after the time of the Homeland War - the biggest moment of cooperation with the USA that Croatia has achieved.

Plenković expressed particular satisfaction with the nine agreements signed during the summit, singling out the South Gas Interconnection project between Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina as a strategic priority. This project, involving the construction of a pipeline from Dugopolje to Imotski and into Bosnia and Herzegovina, is crucial for diversifying gas supplies and facilitating the gasification of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The strong support from the U.S. administration for this project, while perhaps not as robust from the European Commission initially, highlights the critical role of international partnerships in advancing regional energy security.

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All gas needs in Croatia, BiH, Slovenia, part of Hungary, and even towards Austria can be met during the year.

The Prime Minister also reiterated the success of the Krk LNG terminal, a project that has positioned Croatia as a vital energy center capable of meeting the gas needs of several neighboring countries. He emphasized that this infrastructure, alongside strengthened cooperation with the United States, represents one of the most significant partnerships since the Croatian Homeland War. This collaboration, involving U.S. companies and the presence of U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright, signals a deepening strategic alignment. Furthermore, Plenković touched upon energy sector collaborations with Kazakhstan and affirmed the government's mechanisms to ensure energy supply and affordable prices amidst global challenges, while also dismissing opposition claims regarding judicial appointments.

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This is a project of strategic importance for BiH, with strong support from the American administration and investors.