Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Croatia—the first ever by an Indian Prime Minister—has marked a pivotal moment in India-Croatia relations.
The visit, which has now concluded, is already being hailed as a foundation for long-term strategic collaboration between the two countries across science, innovation, diplomacy, and trade.
In an exclusive interview with StratNewsGlobal, Dragan Primorac, a renowned Croatian scientist, physician, and former Minister of Science, Education and Sports, reflected on the significance of the visit, his recent meeting with Prime Minister Modi, and the future of India-Croatia relations.
Bilateral Relations and Diplomacy
“Prime Minister Modi’s historic visit to Croatia marks a pivotal moment in bilateral relations, reflecting a shared commitment to a deeper strategic partnership. As the first Indian Prime Minister to visit Croatia, his presence highlights mutual respect, democratic values, and a common vision for global cooperation.”
Dr. Primorac emphasized that the visit has opened a new chapter of collaboration across key sectors such as: Biotechnology; Pharmaceuticals; Healthcare; Defence; Renewable energy; Agriculture; Digital technology; Artificial Intelligence; Clean tech; and Shipbuilding.
These sectors, he said, will form the bedrock of a forward-looking alliance in an increasingly interconnected world.
Reflecting on his recent meeting with PM Modi, Dr Primorac noted, “Our discussions were strategic and forward-looking, driven by a shared vision to elevate India-Croatia relations. We focused on strengthening scientific and technology collaboration—particularly in personalized medicine—and boosting bilateral investment. Innovation was a key theme, with emphasis on AI, digital transformation, and building resilient innovation ecosystems.”
“We also explored joint initiatives in healthcare, education, sports, forensic science, and biotechnology—areas where our strengths align naturally. Prime Minister Modi’s vision of a self-reliant, innovation-driven India resonates with Croatia’s aspiration to build global partnerships beyond Europe.”
“Prime Minister Modi is not only a visionary leader but a trusted friend. His dedication to innovation, sustainability, and global cooperation continues to inspire our shared journey toward a more resilient and interconnected future.”
Scientific Collaboration and Healthcare Innovation
Dr Primorac has been instrumental in building bridges between Indian and Croatian scientific institutions. Speaking about future areas for cooperation, he said:
“I am honoured to serve as Professor Emeritus at the National Forensic Sciences University in Ahmedabad, a university of national importance in India, under the esteemed leadership of Vice Chancellor Dr. JM Vyas. I remain deeply committed to advancing our collaborative efforts, particularly in forensic genetics, forensic education, and national security.”
“Looking ahead, there is tremendous potential to expand scientific cooperation in several high-impact areas. Information technology—especially artificial intelligence—biotechnology, and digital health stand out as particularly promising domains. These fields not only align with global innovation trends but also reflect the complementary strengths of India and Croatia.”
He detailed a groundbreaking clinical trial set to launch in Ahmedabad, “A notable example of this collaboration is the upcoming clinical application of allogenic mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy for patients with inoperable coronary artery disease. This initiative—developed in partnership with my team from St. Catherine Hospital in Croatia, Apex Heart Institute led by Prof. Tejas Patel, one of India’s most distinguished interventional cardiologists, and Bonus BioGroup from Israel, led by Dr. Shai Meretzki—is set to begin in Ahmedabad later this year. It represents a major advancement in regenerative medicine and positions India at the forefront of this transformative field.”
On personalized medicine, he added: “While working with Prof. Patel and his team to bring cutting-edge therapies to India, we have also established a strong collaboration with the Neuberg Center of Genomic Medicine, part of Neuberg Diagnostics, an Indian multinational diagnostic company. Together, we are implementing a large-scale genomics-based precision medicine program in Croatia and Europe.”
“This initiative has already laid a solid foundation for an omics-based precision health platform, which will play a crucial role in advancing our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying disease and guiding the development of more effective, personalized therapies.”
Driving Innovation and Economic Cooperation
On building robust innovation ecosystems, Dr. Primorac stated, “India and Croatia have a unique opportunity to forge a transformative partnership in biotechnology, personalized medicine, and healthcare—one that combines Croatia’s cutting-edge expertise in precision diagnostics and clinical research with India’s vast innovation ecosystem, manufacturing scale, and digital health infrastructure.”
“To unlock this potential, we must establish joint centers of excellence focused on translational research, foster startup and academic exchanges, and co-develop technologies tailored to diverse genetic and demographic profiles.”
“Equally important is the creation of harmonized regulatory frameworks and secure, interoperable data-sharing platforms… Together, India and Croatia can become global leaders in next-generation AI-based healthcare.”
On trade and investment:
“India and Croatia have strong potential to deepen trade and investment ties across key sectors such as biotechnology, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, defence, digital and AI transformation, shipbuilding, and tourism.”
“Croatia’s EU membership, strategic location, skilled workforce, and innovation ecosystem make it an attractive entry point for Indian businesses into European markets.”
“By launching joint R&D initiatives, establishing cross-border innovation hubs, and fostering startup ecosystems, we can co-create solutions that address global challenges while generating high-value jobs and sustainable growth.”
Shared Global Vision
He also highlighted India and Croatia’s alignment on major global issues: “Croatia fully supports India’s call for more inclusive, transparent, and effective global governance. Our two countries can collaborate closely on key global challenges—particularly climate resilience, sustainable energy, and health security—through both multilateral platforms and targeted bilateral initiatives.”
“Together, we can contribute to shaping a more equitable and resilient global future.”
On global health innovation:
“India and Croatia have a unique opportunity to lead the global advancement of precision medicine through joint innovation… Together, India and Croatia can champion global health equity by ensuring that innovations in personalized medicine are not only cutting-edge but also accessible and affordable.”
Personal Reflections and Message to India
“India’s profound intellectual heritage, vibrant scientific community, and unwavering spirit of innovation have long been a source of deep inspiration for me,” he said.
“The Indian scientists and physicians I’ve had the privilege to work with are among the finest in the world—brilliant, dedicated, and visionary. I am also personally inspired by my friendship with Prime Minister Modi.”
Adding, “To my Indian friends and readers, I offer this message: let us continue to build bridges—of knowledge, empathy, and shared purpose. Together, we can shape a future where science serves humanity, and partnerships between nations become engines of peace, progress, and prosperity.”
And to young scientists in both countries:
“I always tell my students: dream big. Ask bold questions, stay endlessly curious, and never underestimate the power of collaboration… The future belongs to those who not only imagine a better world but work across boundaries to build it.”