New US Ambassador: I am honored to be in Croatia

New US Ambassador to Croatia Nicole McGraw presented her credentials to President Zoran Milanović on Tuesday and said she will work to strengthen the mutual security of Croatia and the US as NATO allies, improve the region's energy security and promote economic growth for both countries.

"I am honored to represent the United States of America in Croatia, a valued ally and friend," the new ambassador said on the US Embassy's X.

"Under President Trump's leadership, I look forward to working with Croatian leaders and citizens to strengthen our mutual security as a NATO ally, improve the region's energy security and promote economic growth for both our nations," she added.

The US Senate confirmed her as the new ambassador to Croatia in early October.

Who is Nicole McGraw?

The State Department describes Nicole McGraw, a Florida resident and Catholic, on its website as a dynamic entrepreneur, philanthropist, and leader in international cooperation in the fields of arts, technology, and business.

In her hearing before the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee in April, McGraw emphasized that during her term in Croatia she will have four priorities: economic and cultural diplomacy, security cooperation, American excellence, and the protection of American citizens abroad.

She emphasized that she will work to protect American interests in Croatian strategic sectors such as ports, telecommunications, and energy.

She also said that Croatia is increasing defense spending and is working to modernize its armed forces, which is an opportunity for American companies for joint investments and technology transfers.

Trump described his nominee for ambassador to Croatia in December last year as a philanthropist, entrepreneur, and world-renowned art collector.

“She opened her first art gallery in Palm Beach Gardens in 2006, and since then has built a client base around the world as well as a successful investment fund specializing in investing in fine art,” Trump wrote on his Truth Social social network.

McGraw replaces former Ambassador Nathalie Reyes, who has held the position since January 25, 2024.

Croatia and the USA established diplomatic relations on August 11, 1992.

Source: HRT