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The Embassy of Croatia in Vienna |
The Ambassador
Daniel Glunčić
H.E. Daniel Glunčić, born on June 6, 1970, has pursued a diverse educational background, starting with studies in Catholic Theology at Friedrich Wilhelms University Bonn, Germany, where he graduated in 2005. Building on this foundation, he furthered his academic pursuits at the Hertie School of Governance, specializing in European Governance and Professional development in 2006.
H.E. Glunčić's career reflects his deep commitment to public service and international relations. From 2017 to 2019, he served as Head of Cabinet at the Croatian Parliament (Hrvatski sabor), where he played a pivotal role in legislative operations and policy coordination. Prior to this, from 2016 to 2017, he held the position of Head of the Bureau of the State Secretary for Political Affairs and Adviser to the Minister at the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of the Republic of Croatia, contributing to strategic decision-making and diplomatic initiatives.
His diplomatic career began in earnest in 2000 as an Attaché at the Embassy of the Republic of Croatia in the Federal Republic of Germany, stationed in Bonn. He steadily progressed through various roles, including Third Embassy Secretary from 2005 to 2008 and Second Embassy Secretary from 2008 to 2012, both positions at the same embassy in Germany. In 2013, he briefly assumed the role of Chargé d‘Affaires a.i. at the Embassy of the Republic of Croatia in the Islamic Republic of Iran, demonstrating his adaptability and diplomatic acumen in diverse cultural and geopolitical contexts.
Mr. Glunčić's tenure in the Department of International Legal Aid at the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of the Republic of Croatia from 2012 to 2016 further underscored his expertise in international law and diplomatic protocols. His multifaceted career has been characterized by a strong dedication to advancing Croatia's diplomatic interests and fostering international cooperation.
History
Austria and Croatia have particularly deep historical links due to their shared history within the Habsburg Monarchy, under which Croatia and parts of present-day Austria were connected politically and economically for centuries. After Croatia declared independence in 1991, Austria was among the first countries to recognise Croatian independence, and diplomatic relations were established on 15 January 1992. Austria opened its embassy in Zagreb, while Croatia established its embassy in Vienna soon after independence.
Relations between Austria and Croatia are considered very close and friendly, based on historical ties, geographical proximity, EU membership, and strong economic connections. Croatia’s accession to the European Union in 2013 further strengthened cooperation. Austria has consistently been one of Croatia’s largest foreign investors, particularly in banking, tourism, energy, and infrastructure. The two countries also cooperate closely on Central European issues through regional formats such as the Central European Initiative.
A major element of the relationship is the Croatian community in Austria, one of the country’s longstanding migrant communities. Cultural diplomacy, education, tourism, and people-to-people contacts play an important role in maintaining bilateral ties.
