Plenković on Longest-Serving EU PM Status, Hungary's New Leadership

In a candid conversation with CNN's Richard Quest, Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković reflected on his tenure, acknowledging the weight of becoming the longest-serving prime minister within the European Union after Viktor Orbán's exit from that distinction. Plenković framed this longevity not as a personal achievement, but as a significant responsibility he is prepared to shoulder, leveraging his experience to contribute to crucial European discussions on defense, competitiveness, and the bloc's future budget.

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When it comes to Hungary's European role, we place great hopes in Magyar

Plenković extended a hopeful outlook towards Hungary's political landscape, expressing strong confidence in the newly elected Prime Minister Péter Magyar. He articulated Croatia's desire to build a genuine partnership with Budapest, particularly in light of Hungary's recent decision to lift its blockade on EU funding for Ukraine. This signals a pragmatic approach from Croatia, aiming to reset and strengthen bilateral relations with its neighbor, focusing on resolving outstanding issues and fostering friendly ties under the new Hungarian leadership.

Speaking from Dubrovnik during the Three Seas Initiative Summit, Plenković highlighted the forum's critical role in enhancing regional resilience and energy security. The summit, which brought together business leaders and policymakers, underscored the collaborative efforts among member states to bolster their energy independence and mutual support mechanisms. This focus on practical cooperation aligns with Croatia's broader strategic interests within the EU and its immediate neighborhood.

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On a more bilateral level, we now have the first few months of the new government in Budapest to put all open issues on the table and try to resolve them quickly and establish a sincere partnership and friendly relations

From a Croatian perspective, Plenković's position as the longest-serving EU leader is a point of national pride, showcasing Croatia's stability and consistent engagement within the European framework. His nuanced approach to regional diplomacy, balancing national interests with EU solidarity, is characteristic of Croatia's foreign policy. The emphasis on partnership with Hungary, despite past complexities, and the proactive stance on energy security through initiatives like the Three Seas Summit, demonstrate Croatia's commitment to a stable and prosperous European future, viewed through its own distinct lens within the bloc.

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it is a responsibility that I am willing to carry on my shoulders