Croatian Foreign Minister Gordan Grlić Radman has warned several European counterparts about Serbia’s conduct surrounding the funeral of convicted war criminal Ratko Mladić, stressing the potential consequences for stability in the Western Balkans and Serbia’s path toward European Union membership.
According to diplomatic sources cited by Croatian media, Grlić Radman raised the issue during an international conference in Riga, Latvia, one of the key annual forums addressing foreign and security policy in Northern Europe and the Baltic region.
Before the conference, Croatia’s foreign minister attended a working dinner with his counterparts from Finland, Ireland, Latvia, Hungary and Poland. Discussions focused on EU enlargement, Russia’s hybrid and other security threats, as well as developments in the Middle East.
Diplomatic sources said Grlić Radman drew the attention of his northern European partners and allies to Serbia’s conduct regarding Ratko Mladić’s funeral, explaining what he believes it could mean for the stability of the Western Balkans and Belgrade’s European perspective.
Meanwhile, Croatia’s Foreign Ministry said Grlić Radman reiterated at the conference Zagreb’s strong support for the European perspective of the Western Balkans. He also stressed that the European future of Bosnia and Herzegovina remains one of Croatia’s priorities.
According to Grlić Radman, EU enlargement represents a strategic investment in a safer, more stable and prosperous Europe. He said bringing Ukraine and Moldova closer to the EU is important, but gradual integration into certain Union policies cannot replace full membership, which can only follow once all necessary conditions have been met.
The Croatian minister also warned about the intensification of Russia’s hybrid and destabilizing activities, calling for a coordinated European response, stronger protection of critical infrastructure and closer cooperation between the EU and NATO.
The situation in the Middle East was also discussed. Grlić Radman stressed the importance of maintaining free and safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz in accordance with international law, while emphasizing the role of diplomacy and dialogue in resolving regional crises.
During his visit to Riga, Grlić Radman also met with Latvia’s Parliamentary Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Dace Melbārde. Their discussions focused on strengthening transport, energy and digital links between the Baltic and Adriatic regions, as well as improving energy resilience and Europe’s defense industry.
