"When we discuss geopolitical shocks, we do not refer to isolated events. We refer to a series of interconnected crises: from the pandemic, the war in Ukraine and energy disruptions to the fragmentation of global trade. These shocks have a profound impact on economies: they are changing the flows of trade, investment and production. However, it is important to emphasise that shocks are not only negative. They are also a powerful driver of change, as they force economies to rethink the existing models of growth and cooperation. It is in this context that the importance of reliable partners, which Germany and Croatia undoubtedly are, becomes even more pronounced. The Croatian and German economies are interconnected in the circular process of value creation, rather than through a simple exporter-importer relationship. This integration is real and operational, not just declarative. The biggest challenge and opportunity lie in the growth of added value. This is precisely where the potential for a new phase of the German Croatian economic partnership lies", said Ivana Jakir-Bajo at the German Croatian Economic Forum "Croatia’s Future: The Strength of Partnership", held in Zagreb on May 12 and organized by the German Croatian Chamber of Industry and Commerce.