- by croatiaweek
- April 28, 2026
-
in
News
Three Seas Initiative Summit is being held in Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik is hosting the Three Seas Initiative Summit on 28–29 April 2026, bringing together more than 1,600 participants, including numerous heads of state and government.
With Croatia holding the presidency this year, discussions are focused on strengthening transport, energy and digital connectivity, enhancing energy security, and developing strategic infrastructure to boost the European Union’s resilience and competitiveness.
Speaking at a panel during the summit, Croatia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister, Davor Božinović, emphasised that the country is facing a range of cross-border threats requiring coordinated international action.
He stressed that while Croatia is actively working at national level to protect its citizens, cooperation with EU member states, bilateral partners, as well as organisations such as the EU and NATO, remains essential.
Significant investment has been made using available European funds to modernise the armed forces, civil protection systems and the police.
Božinović also highlighted Croatia’s geographic and strategic position, describing the country as a central European connector. He noted that the Three Seas Initiative provides a framework for Croatia to strengthen this role further.
Energy diversification was identified as a key priority over the past decade, with Croatia investing heavily in new supply routes and energy corridors.
These efforts aim not only to ensure affordable energy domestically but also to contribute to wider European energy stability and economic growth.
Migration remains a major issue, particularly for countries on the EU’s external borders. Croatia, located along the Western Balkan route, faces distinct challenges compared to northern member states. Božinović underlined the importance of joint European action in managing migration flows.
In addition, he pointed to the need for closer cooperation in tackling cyber threats, protecting critical infrastructure, addressing climate change, and combating organised crime and smuggling networks.
He also referenced the EU’s upcoming Entry/Exit System as a significant step towards improved border management and monitoring of movement into and within Europe.
The Three Seas Initiative, launched in 2015 by Croatia, Slovenia and Poland, serves as an informal platform aimed at strengthening economic and political cooperation across the region.
It now brings together 13 countries between the Baltic, Black and Adriatic seas, along with four associated members and six strategic partners, including the United States, the European Commission, Germany, Japan and Turkey.
