Meenakashi Lekhi, Union Minister of State (MoS) for External Affairs and Culture, will attend the Dubrovnik Forum and begin a four-day official tour to Croatia and North Macedonia on Friday.
“I’m leaving tonight for an official trip to North Macedonia and Croatia. Will be pleased to present India’s perspective at the esteemed Dubrovnik Forum in 2023. Look forward to in-depth conversations about bilateral ties and interaction with the Indian diaspora in North Macedonia, said Lekhi in a tweet. Lekhi will attend the prestigious Dubrovnik Forum on Saturday, which is being held by the Croatian Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs, during her visit, which runs from July 8 to July 11. “The 2023 edition of the Forum will focus on the dynamics and needs of global geo-politics and geo-economics,” the statement read.
Relations between India and Croatia have been friendly since the days of the former Yugoslavia (SFRY). Marshal Tito, a Croat, who ruled Yugoslavia for more than three decades, maintained close relations with the then Indian leadership.
After completing her first visit to Croatia, Lekhi will visit North-Macedonia on July 10.
During her two day visit, from July 10-11, MoS Lekhi will “have wide ranging discussions on bilateral relations, including meeting her counterparts in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Culture. She will call on the Speaker of the Assembly, and will interact with the Indian diaspora in Skopje. She will also visit the Memorial House of Mother Teresa,” the statement read.
“India has close and friendly ties with Croatia and North-Macedonia. North-Macedonia was part of the Voice of Global South Summit, held by India in January, 2023. MoS’ visit will provide an opportunity for deeper bilateral engagement with Croatia and North-Macedonia,” the statement added.