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Nicole McGraw says cultural and economic diplomacy would guide her tenure as U.S. ambassador to Croatia
Summary
Nicole McGraw, nominee to be U.S. ambassador to Croatia, told the Senate Foreign Relations Committee that she would focus on economic and cultural diplomacy, security cooperation with NATO partners and supporting regional energy projects such as the Krk LNG expansion to reduce reliance on Russian gas.
Nicole McGraw, President Trump—s nominee for U.S. ambassador to Croatia, told the Senate Foreign Relations Committee on April 8, 2025, that she would emphasize economic and cultural diplomacy, security cooperation with NATO partners and support for regional energy integration if confirmed.
In prepared remarks and answers to senators— questions, McGraw cited her background in public art, cultural diplomacy and private-sector innovation as relevant experience for the post. "Founding canvas art charities ignited my passion for public service by demonstrating how cultural diplomacy and data driven public art can transform cities, drive economic growth, promote tourism, foster cultural education, and build vibrant communities," she told the committee.
Ranking Member Jeanne Shaheen and other senators pressed McGraw about Croatia—s role in regional energy security and the stalled gas interconnector project that would link Bosnia and Herzegovina to Croatian gas infrastructure. Shaheen asked whether McGraw would engage Croatia to prioritize construction of the interconnector and press Bosnian Croat political leaders who have blocked the project. McGraw said she would work with the U.S. embassy in Sarajevo, U.S. Ambassador to Bosnia (Ambassador Murphy, as named in the hearing), and Croatian counterparts to advocate for completion of the southern interconnection, which she said would position Croatia to export LNG to the Western Balkans.
Senators also discussed possible use of sanctions on obstructing Bosnian leaders if they continue to block the project; McGraw said she had not been briefed as a private citizen but would review the matter and work with Congress if confirmed.
Committee members asked about Croatia—s Krk LNG terminal expansion (referred to in the hearing as the terminal doubling capacity) and whether U.S. energy suppliers and defense cooperation could help reduce regional dependence on Russian gas. McGraw recommended advancing U.S. investment and technology partnerships and highlighted opportunities for U.S. firms in Croatia—s ports, telecommunications and energy sectors.
No committee vote was taken during the hearing. The record remained open for additional written questions through April 9, 2025.
