The Government of the Republic of Croatia has made a crucial decision to adopt the proposal of the Regulation that will formalize the Agreement on Air Traffic between Croatia and Japan. This agreement, signed on July 21, 2023, in Tokyo, marks a turning point in the international relations of the two countries, with a special emphasis on improving transport, economic, and tourism cooperation. The agreement will enable the establishment of direct air routes, further encouraging not only economic exchange but also cultural ties between Croatia and Japan.

Increase in the number of tourists and economic growth

The introduction of direct air routes will bring numerous benefits, especially for tourism, where a significant increase in the number of Japanese tourists in Croatia is expected. Statistics show that in the first six months of 2023, there was a 296% increase in arrivals of Japanese tourists, highlighting the importance of this agreement in promoting tourism exchange. The establishment of regular flights will make it easier and faster for Japanese tourists to reach Croatia, especially during the season, which will positively impact the local economy, hospitality, and tourist services.

Besides tourism, the agreement is extremely important for economic cooperation. Japan is increasingly opening up to Europe, and Croatia is becoming an important point on the air traffic map between Asia and Europe. Regular air routes will facilitate not only the trade of goods between Croatia and Japan but also business contacts, opening new markets for Croatian products and services in Japan and beyond, in the countries of Asia and the ASEAN region.

Strategic importance in international relations

This agreement also has broader political significance. The signing comes at a time when Croatia and Japan are marking 30 years of diplomatic relations, and it is further strengthened by the opening of an honorary consulate of the Republic of Croatia in Osaka. Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Gordan Grlić Radman emphasized that Japan provides strong support to Croatia on its path towards membership in the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). The agreement is also expected to facilitate easier cooperation on projects related to the green transition and high-tech innovations, where both countries have expressed interest in collaboration.

Japan's role in regional and global cooperation

In addition to bilateral cooperation, Japan is also an important partner for Croatia on a broader international level. Both countries share common interests in regional stability, particularly in the Balkans and Ukraine. Japan has already expressed interest in participating in international humanitarian demining projects organized by Croatia, while on the other hand, Croatia is strengthening its presence in East Asia by participating in global events such as EXPO 2025 in Osaka.

Preparations for the future

This agreement will not only enhance connectivity between Croatia and Japan but also open doors to further investments in infrastructure, energy, and digital technologies. Joint investments in air connectivity projects will not only improve passenger transport but also speed up the flow of goods, which is crucial for strengthening trade relations between the two countries.

By adopting this regulation, Croatia and Japan are laying the foundations for long-term improvement of relations and strengthening their presence on the global stage. It is expected that the agreement will stimulate further investments, and Croatia will become a key point of air traffic between Europe and Asia, thereby further enhancing its geopolitical significance.