Българо-хърватските отношения (април – декември 1941 г.)
Bulgarian-Croatian Relations (April – December 1941)

Summary/Abstract: The article looks into the initial period of the establishment and functioning of diplomatic and political relations between Bulgaria and the Independent Croatian State formed after the military defeat of the Kingdom of Yugoslavia in April 1941. The bilateral relations conducted within the framework of the Nazi “New Order” are followed up on the grounds of materials from Bulgarian archives which have not been used so far. Bulgaria was among the first countries that recognized the Independent Croatian State as a subject of international law, and from July 14, 1941 had its diplomatic representative in Zagreb. An optimistic beginning of Bulgarian-Croatian relations was made during the period under review. Besides the general commitments within the framework of the Axis (the two countries jointed the Tripartite and Anti-Comintern Pacts), Bulgaria and the Independent Croatian State within a short period of time concluded trade and cultural agreement. Relations between the two countries had a great potential despite the obvious inequality as state formations. Over a longer period of time Bulgaria expected to consolidate its national unification, and the Independent Croatian State emerged as a natural ally in this respect. The same was valid for Zagreb for which Bulgaria was one of the most welcome partners along the road of the country’s territorial and political consolidation.

• Details
• Contents