The Croatian Defence Industry Competitiveness Cluster and the Croatian Employers’ Association held an Information Day focused on the European Defence Fund, presenting it as a platform for economic growth, industrial development, and new employment opportunities. Croatian Defence Minister Ivan Anušić attended the event and described the initiative as an important opening for both the country and its economy.
Speaking on the sidelines of the gathering, Anušić said the fund represents a concrete opportunity for Croatia’s defence sector and the wider business community. He stressed its potential not only in terms of investment, but also through the creation of new jobs and stronger participation in European defence projects.
Anušić also addressed political developments in Hungary following the election victory of Peter Magyar. He congratulated the Hungarian leader and noted that the two had already met at the Munich Conference. According to Anušić, the outcome in Hungary could create space for a healthier tone in bilateral relations.
He said he was encouraged by what he described as a change in rhetoric from Hungary’s incoming leader and expressed confidence that relations between Croatia and Hungary could improve in the period ahead.
Particular attention was given to Magyar’s remarks about the map of Greater Hungary, an issue that has often carried political sensitivity in the region. Anušić said the new Hungarian leader had clearly stated his position by describing the map as a matter of history rather than revisionism.
For the Croatian minister, that message was significant. He said such wording was reassuring, especially given that Magyar is expected to lead Hungary in the future, and suggested that this clearer stance could contribute to more constructive relations between the two neighboring countries.
Taken together, Anušić’s comments linked two separate but important themes: the economic possibilities emerging from European defence cooperation and the potential for a more stable and pragmatic regional relationship between Croatia and Hungary.
