In a significant move to bolster regional security, Croatia and Poland have initiated steps to deepen their defense partnership, as highlighted by Croatia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Ivan Anušić during his recent visit to Warsaw. This collaboration comes amid a rapidly evolving security environment in Europe, particularly in light of rising threats from the East, including Russia's aggression.
On May 8, 2025, Anušić met with Poland's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence, Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, along with the Chief of the General Staff of the Croatian Armed Forces, Lieutenant General Tihomir Kundid. The high-level discussions reaffirmed the strong relationship between Croatia and Poland, especially in the fields of security and defense.
During the meeting, both ministers agreed on enhancing cooperation through direct links between Croatian and Polish defense companies. This initiative aims to foster joint development and collaboration, ultimately contributing to regional stability and shared security. “Croatians and Poles share many values, and we want to clearly send a message of unity from today’s meeting,” Anušić stated, emphasizing the constructive nature of their discussions.
Looking ahead, Anušić revealed that Poland’s Defence Minister is expected to visit Zagreb within the next two months. During this visit, a Letter of Intent will be signed to formally elevate the level of cooperation between the two nations, particularly through connecting their defense industries.
In light of the wider geopolitical landscape, Anušić stressed the importance of readiness and cooperation in addressing rising security challenges. “Threats from the East must be taken seriously. We must be prepared to deter,” he remarked, underscoring the urgency of the current security climate.
Anušić also praised Poland’s rapid military development, noting the respect that Croatian citizens have for Poland’s determination and responsibility in becoming a significant military force in a short time. This acknowledgment reflects a growing recognition of Poland's strategic importance in the region.
Reflecting on Croatia’s own historical context, Anušić drew parallels between current global threats and the Croatian War of Independence in the 1990s. “Today’s situation reminds me of the 1990s, when we had to defend our own independence. We emerged victorious in 1995, and I hope no nation will ever have to face such a conflict again – but we must be ready,” he stated, highlighting the lessons learned from Croatia's past struggles.
His comments resonate with the broader narrative of European nations working together to ensure collective security in the face of potential threats. The ongoing cooperation between Croatia and Poland not only aims to enhance military capabilities but also seeks to strengthen the overall resilience of NATO allies.
Polish Defence Minister Kosiniak-Kamysz expressed gratitude for Croatia’s contributions to NATO missions and operations, emphasizing the shared security goals and values between the two nations. This acknowledgment reinforces the idea that both countries are committed to a unified approach to security challenges.
As NATO members, Croatia and Poland are strategically positioned on the eastern flank of the alliance, making their partnership crucial in addressing threats that could arise from regional instability. Anušić’s emphasis on unity and adaptability among NATO allies reflects a growing consensus that collaboration is essential in navigating the complexities of modern security environments.
In addition to military modernization and crisis response coordination, Anušić highlighted the value of joint training and knowledge exchange to strengthen interoperability within NATO. This focus on practical steps aims to ensure that both Croatian and Polish forces can operate seamlessly together in various scenarios.
As the geopolitical landscape continues to shift, the collaboration between Croatia and Poland serves as a model for other NATO allies. The commitment to deepening defense ties not only enhances their respective military capabilities but also contributes to the overall stability of the region.
Looking forward, both nations are poised to take significant steps in solidifying their defense cooperation, with the upcoming visit from Poland’s Defence Minister marking a pivotal moment in their bilateral relationship. The signing of the Letter of Intent will formalize the commitment to work together more closely, especially in the areas of defense industry collaboration.
In conclusion, the recent discussions between Croatia and Poland signal a proactive approach to addressing security challenges in Europe. By fostering stronger ties and enhancing cooperation, both nations are taking significant strides toward ensuring their collective security in an increasingly uncertain world.
