Minister Grlić Radman attends informal meeting of MED9 foreign ministers

Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Gordan Grlić Radman participated on 9 April 2026 in an informal meeting of the foreign ministers of MED9 member countries, held in Split. The meeting marked the official commencement of Croatia's presidency of this initiative, which brings together Mediterranean and southern EU member states.

The meeting was convened in the context of the evolving security situation in the Middle East and its implications for the Mediterranean region, the European Union, and the broader international community. Ministers exchanged views on key challenges, including maritime security, the stability of energy and transport routes, and the resilience of global supply chains.

Ministers welcomed the ceasefire between the U. S. and Iran as an important step towards de-escalation. They underscored the need for sustained diplomatic engagement, restraint by all parties, the protection of civilians, and full respect for international law. The importance of safeguarding freedom of navigation, in particular through the Strait of Hormuz, was also emphasized.

Ministers further addressed potential challenges arising from increased migratory pressures and highlighted the need to strengthen the protection of critical infrastructure and the environment. They reaffirmed the importance of enhanced coordination among MED9 member states, as well as continued engagement with the EU's Southern Neighbourhood.

In his remarks to the media, Grlić Radman underlined Croatia's active contribution to Europe's energy security, notably through the liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal on the island of Krk and the JANAF oil pipeline. He also announced a series of activities to be undertaken during Croatia's presidency, including thematic ministerial meetings on irregular migration, environmental protection, and energy.

Ministers are expected to reconvene on the margins of the Dubrovnik Forum in June, while the presidency will conclude with a summit of MED9 leaders to be held in October in Split.

A Joint Statement was adopted at the conclusion of the meeting.

News