Australian Foreign Minister Engages with Croatian Diaspora in Los Angeles

FM meets Los Angeles’ Croatian community

Strengthening ties with the United States

Croatian Foreign Minister Gordan Grlić Radman recently met with the Croatian community in Los Angeles to express his gratitude for their efforts in strengthening ties between Croatia and the United States. In a press release, the Foreign Ministry emphasized the importance of the Croatian diaspora in fostering economic cooperation and investment exchanges between the two countries.

Minister Grlić Radman also had the opportunity to meet with representatives of the business community from both the US and Croatia. During these meetings, he highlighted Croatia’s business-oriented environment, efficient workforce, favorable geostrategic position, and attractive incentives, all of which make Croatia an appealing destination for American investors. The minister and his interlocutors recognized the potential for growth in trade and investment exchanges, particularly given Croatia’s positive macroeconomic indicators, membership in the eurozone and the Schengen area, and ongoing accession to the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development.

Ratification of the Double Taxation Treaty and economic cooperation

The talks between Minister Grlić Radman and the Croatian community in Los Angeles also focused on the importance of ratifying the Double Taxation Treaty between Croatia and the United States. Both sides emphasized the vital role this treaty plays in promoting economic cooperation and reducing barriers to trade and investment. The Foreign Ministry expressed optimism that the continued collaboration between Croatia and the United States will enhance the bilateral economic relationship and further attract American investors to Croatia.

Prominent guests in attendance

The meeting between Minister Grlić Radman and the Croatian community in Los Angeles was attended by a number of distinguished guests. Among them were Rudy Svorinich, President of the American Dalmatian Club, who welcomed all representatives and officials of the city of Los Angeles; Ted Lieu, a member of the U.S. House of Representatives; Steven Craig Bradford, serving in the California State Senate; Albert Yasuro Maratsuchi, a Japanese-American attorney representing the California State Assembly, and many other respected individuals. Ambassador Pjer Simunovic and Consul General Renee Pea, both representing the Republic of Croatia, were also present.

“Hrvati ujedinjeni kravatom” (Croatians United by the Tie)

During his visit, Minister Grlić Radman was introduced to a global project titled “Hrvati ujedinjeni kravatom” (Croatians United by the Tie), in partnership with the American Croatian Congress (ACC), ACAP, and Crodiaspora. Nada Pritisanac Matulich, the President of ACC, Miroslav Koletic, the Director for Economy at ACC, and Linda Govel, the Director for Culture at ACC, presented the Minister with a book documenting the project and extended an invitation to the upcoming exhibition in Pula, which will commemorate Tie Day and the 20th anniversary of Pula’s tie entry into the Guinness World Records. The project aims to promote the cultural and historical significance of the tie, a symbol connecting Croatia and the United States. After the exhibition in Pula, it will embark on a multi-year tour of world universities, the United Nations, and the EU Parliament.

Continued engagements

Following his visit to Los Angeles, Minister Grlić Radman traveled to New York to attend the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly. Prior to that, he visited Seattle, where he engaged with the Croatian business community and local officials.

Editorial: Strengthening the Croatian Diaspora

The meeting between Foreign Minister Gordan Grlić Radman and the Croatian community in Los Angeles highlights the importance of fostering strong ties with the diaspora. The Croatian diaspora plays an invaluable role in promoting economic cooperation, attracting foreign investment, and maintaining cultural connections between Croatia and other countries. The efforts made by the Foreign Ministry to engage with and acknowledge the contributions of the diaspora are commendable.

By recognizing the potential for growth in trade and investment exchanges, Croatia is positioning itself as an attractive destination for American investors. Croatia’s business-oriented environment, efficient workforce, and favorable geographical location provide a solid foundation for economic cooperation. The ratification of the Double Taxation Treaty and ongoing engagement with the business community further demonstrate Croatia’s commitment to creating a favorable business environment.

Projects such as “Hrvati ujedinjeni kravatom” (Croatians United by the Tie) showcase the cultural and historical ties that bind the Croatian diaspora and their home country. By celebrating symbols like the tie, which connects Croatia and the United States, these initiatives not only promote cultural exchange but also strengthen the sense of identity and pride among Croatians worldwide.

The engagement with the Croatian community in Los Angeles, as well as the planned activities in Pula and the global exhibition tour, provide opportunities to further strengthen the bonds between Croatia and its diaspora. By engaging with the global Croatian community, Croatia can tap into the expertise, resources, and networks of its diaspora to propel its economic development and cultural diplomacy efforts.

Advice for the Future

To build on the success of this meeting, the Croatian government should consider the following recommendations:

Enhance Engagement and Support

The government should continue to engage with the Croatian diaspora, both on a personal and institutional level. By establishing clear channels of communication and offering support for diaspora initiatives, Croatia can tap into the knowledge, skills, and resources of its global community. This engagement should not be limited to economic cooperation but should also encompass cultural, educational, and social initiatives.

Streamline Business Processes

While Croatia boasts a business-oriented environment, it’s crucial for the government to streamline bureaucratic processes and reduce red tape. Simplifying regulations, enhancing transparency, and improving the ease of doing business will attract more foreign investment and encourage entrepreneurs from the diaspora to explore opportunities in Croatia.

Promote Cultural Exchange

Projects like “Hrvati ujedinjeni kravatom” (Croatians United by the Tie) should be expanded to include other cultural symbols and traditions that connect Croatia and its diaspora. By celebrating and sharing the rich cultural heritage of Croatia, the country can strengthen its global identity and foster a sense of belonging among its diaspora.

In conclusion, the meeting between Foreign Minister Gordan Grlić Radman and the Croatian community in Los Angeles signifies the importance of engaging with the Croatian diaspora. By recognizing their contributions and fostering economic, cultural, and social ties, Croatia can leverage the resources of its diaspora to drive economic growth and promote its cultural heritage on a global scale.