Australia and Croatia to start talks on double taxation avoidance agreement

Croatian Minister of Foreign and European Affairs, Gordan Grlić Radman and Australian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Senator Penny Wong (Photo: MVEP/Press)

In a significant diplomatic move, Croatian Minister of Foreign and European Affairs, Gordan Grlić Radman, held a bilateral meeting with the Australian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Senator Penny Wong, in Canberra on December 4, 2023. 

This meeting marked a crucial step in enhancing the robust relationship between the two countries, the Croatian Minister of Foreign and European Affairs said in a press statement. 

Relations

The ministers highlighted the excellent ties between Croatia and Australia, underscoring the importance of the substantial Australian-Croatian community, numbering 250,000, serving as a strong bridge for cooperation. 

Acknowledging the progress in strengthening economic collaboration, they particularly welcomed the record-breaking return of approximately 220,000 Australian tourists to Croatia in the first ten months of 2023.

Minister Grlić Radman emphasised the significance of the NATO-Australia partnership, considering Australia as one of the key global allies contributing significantly to understanding security issues in the Indo-Pacific region.

Discussing EU-Australia cooperation, the ministers agreed that robust collaboration is essential for addressing global challenges. They emphasised the need for intensive dialogues and cooperation across various domains to preserve and advance shared interests.

Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement

Expressing satisfaction, Minister Grlić Radman welcomed the announcement by the Australian government to include Croatia in its tax agreement program and initiate negotiations on the Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement with Croatia next year.

In addition to bilateral discussions, ministers exchanged views on pressing global issues, including the Russian aggression in Ukraine, the situation in the Middle East, and Southeast Europe. Minister Grlić Radman’s visit marked a historic moment as the first Croatian foreign affairs minister to visit Australia since 2005.

During his stay in Canberra, Minister Grlić Radman met with Australia’s Chief Executive, General David Hurley, discussing current global topics and reaffirming the friendly bilateral relations between Croatia and Australia.

Croatian Minister of Foreign and European Affairs, Gordan Grlić Radman visits Perth (Photo: MVEP/Press)

The minister also engaged in meetings with Australia’s Minister of Industry and Science, Ed Husic, Senate President Sue Lines, Senator Simon Birmingham, and Senator Marija Kovačić. The visit to Canberra concluded with a tribute at the Australian War Memorial, highlighting the importance of commemorating shared values and historical connections between the two nations.