Sanskrit has been taught at Croatian universities since 1876: Andrej Plenkovic
Croatia Prime Minister addresses lecture on India-Croatia relations at DU
Andrej Plenkovic's visit will give a new direction to the educational and cultural ties between the two countries: Prof. Yogesh Singh
New Delhi, February 20.
Prime Minister of the Republic of Croatia, Andrej Plenkovic, speaking about the closeness of India-Croatia relations, said that Sanskrit has been taught at Croatian universities since 1876. Andrej Plenkovic was addressing as the chief guest at a special lecture on “Bridging Continents: Croatia and India in a Connected World” in the Convention Hall of the Vice Regal Lodge, University of Delhi. Peter Ljubicic, Ambassador of the Republic of Croatia to India, was present as the guest of Honour. The program was presided over by DU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Yogesh Singh. On this occasion Prof. Rajni Abbi, Director South Campus, Dr. Vikas Gupta Registrar, Chairman International Relations Prof. Nira Agnimitra, Croatian Ministers, and other dignitaries, along with numerous officers, officials and many students were also present.
During the lecture, Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic elaborated on India-Croatia relations, global cooperation, and the changing international landscape. DU VC Prof. Yogesh Singh welcomed all the guests, including the Prime Minister of the Republic of Croatia. The Vice-Chancellor stated that Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic's visit to India and University of Delhi will give a new direction to the educational and cultural relations between the two countries. He noted that this is the first time a Croatian Prime Minister has visited India and the University of Delhi.
Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic further stated in his address that the academic environment at University of Delhi is extremely rich and inspiring, where the spirit of dialogue and coexistence amidst diversity is clearly visible. This diversity provides a broad perspective to knowledge and enables young people to become global citizens. Referring to historical travels, he recalled Marco Polo and said that centuries ago, travelers and the exchange of ideas connected Asia and Europe, and today, education and knowledge are doing the same. In this context, he mentioned that Sanskrit has been taught at the University of Zagreb in Croatia since 1876, a testament to the deep cultural ties between India and Croatia. Referring to Mahatma Gandhi, he said that his ideals of non-violence, truth, and human dignity continue to guide world politics and society.
He also presented detailed information about Croatia. He explained that despite the economic challenges posed by two major earthquakes and the Russia-Ukraine war in 2020, his country managed the situation with balanced policies and maintained the pace of development. Today, Croatia has developed 22 major tourist destinations and is projecting real GDP growth of approximately 2.3% by 2024. He stated that there is immense potential for cooperation between India and Croatia in the fields of education, culture, tourism, and innovation, and that dialogue between universities will strengthen this partnership in the long term. He added that cooperation between the two countries is no longer limited to the cultural level, but is also rapidly advancing in the fields of technology and innovation. He specifically mentioned technology transfer and digital partnerships, stating that Croatia wants to learn from India's experience in areas such as digital public infrastructure, start-up support, and cyber capabilities, while the European innovation ecosystem can open up new opportunities for India's youth.
Andrej Plenkovic, referring to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, said that under his leadership, new dimensions of connectivity and strategic cooperation have opened up between India and Europe. He stated that the growing dialogue between the two countries is strengthening not only diplomatic but also economic and technological partnerships. He commended India's progress in digital technology and artificial intelligence (AI), noting that India is emerging as one of the world's leading countries in this field, and that Croatia wants to progress together on this journey as a friend and partner. Referring to their recent interactions, he said that during discussions in New Delhi, the two countries agreed to work together in digital innovation, start-up collaboration, and future technologies. He also highlighted the importance of academic cooperation, noting the MoU with the Department of Hindi Studies at the University of Zagreb, which will enhance exchange opportunities for students and researchers. He also cited the expanding India-Croatia trade partnership and the increasing number of Indian tourists visiting Croatia as positive signs of the strengthening relationship between the two countries. Finally, he commended the curiosity and energy of the students of Delhi University, stating that India is playing a significant role in science, technology, and the global economy, and that India-Croatia cooperation can serve as a positive example for the world.