Minister Anušić at the Conference “First Joint Programme for Investment in European Defence: A Step Towards Greater Security of the Continent”

The Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Croatia and Minister of Defence, Ivan Anušić, participated today, 2 March 2026, in the conference “First Joint Programme for Investment in European Defence: A Step Towards Greater Security of the Continent”, organised by the Office of the European Parliament in the Republic of Croatia.

Minister Anušić emphasised that, in the new security environment — which effectively began in 2014 with Russia’s annexation of Crimea — Europe must adapt its approach to defence and security. Europe is a strong economic power; however, allocating financial resources alone is not sufficient. A clearer strategic approach is also required, particularly with regard to the protection of its borders.

“EU funding and support for military capability development – military equipping, should provide special consideration to the Baltic States, Finland, Poland and Croatia. These are countries that share a border with Russia or are located in a security-sensitive environment marked by instability,” the Minister said.

The conference was attended by representatives of the Croatian Parliament, numerous ambassadors, representatives of the Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs, members of the academic and scientific community, representatives of economic institutions and the defence industry, as well as other distinguished guests.