President Milanović Meets Croatian Community and Croatian Business Club Members in North Macedonia
During his official visit to the Republic of North Macedonia, the President of the Republic of Croatia Zoran Milanović met in Skopje with representatives of the Croatian community and members of the Croatian Business Club at the Embassy of the Republic of Croatia.
In his remarks, President Milanović addressed, among other topics, North Macedonia’s position in the process of joining the European Union, emphasizing that Croatia can assist by sharing the truth about the country. “I spoke with our Macedonian friends and partners, the President and the Prime Minister, to explore how we can support them in advancing their EU accession. It’s a long and difficult process, marked by delays, underestimation, and even mistreatment. If we can help convey the truth about Macedonia, we will do so,” he stated.
In 2024, trade between the two countries amounted to €330 million – an increase of 2.2 percent compared to the previous year – with Croatia exporting €198 million worth of goods to North Macedonia and importing €132 million. Total Croatian investments in North Macedonia currently stand at €135.8 million. Attending the meeting at the Embassy were representatives of several Croatian companies operating in North Macedonia, including Podravka, Belupo, Kraš, Vindija, Croatia osiguranje, Končar, among others.
President Milanović also met with Mons. Dr. Kiro Stojanov, Roman Catholic Bishop of Skopje and Greek Catholic Eparch of the Strumica-Skopje Diocese. Bishop Stojanov expressed his gratitude for Croatia’s ongoing support to Croats living in North Macedonia, particularly through the activities of the Central State Office for Croats Abroad and the continued assistance provided by Croatian Caritas to Macedonian Caritas – especially in supporting vulnerable groups and education. He also appealed for continued support and help in securing the rights of the Croatian community in North Macedonia.
PHOTO: Office of the President of the Republic of Croatia / Dario Andrišek