ZAGREB, 21 October 2025 – Croatian President Zoran Milanović officially welcomed the newly appointed United States Ambassador to Croatia, Nicole McGraw, by receiving her credentials in a ceremony held at the Office of the President in Zagreb. This event marks the beginning of Ambassador McGraw’s diplomatic mission in the country.
In her remarks, Ambassador McGraw expressed her honor at representing the United States in Croatia, which she described as a valued ally and friend. She stated, “Under President Trump’s leadership, I look forward to working with Croatian leaders and citizens to strengthen our shared security as NATO allies, enhance energy security for the region, and promote economic growth for both our nations. I am thrilled to join our outstanding Embassy team in Zagreb and eager to deepen the friendship between the United States and Croatia.”
Ambassador McGraw attended the ceremony with her husband, Michael McGraw, and their daughter, Elizabeth Merrill. Alongside them were Deputy Chief of Mission and First Secretary Lauren Perlaza, and United States Defence Attaché, Brigadier Scott McLearn.
As an entrepreneur and philanthropist, Ambassador McGraw brings a wealth of experience to her role. She previously served as President of Nicole Henry Fine Arts Consulting, Inc., where she led an internationally recognized art gallery and was among the first American gallerists to showcase Cuban art. Additionally, she founded CANVAS Art Charities, earning recognition for her public service with the 2018 Muse Award for Outstanding Public Art.
With a background in art and public leadership studies from Harvard Kennedy School, Ambassador McGraw combines elements of business, culture, and technology to further U.S.–Croatia cooperation in critical areas, including defense, energy security, and economic development.
In welcoming the new ambassador, President Milanović was accompanied by key officials, including his Head of Cabinet Bartol Šimunić and Tomislav Lendić, Director of the Directorate for Political Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs, as well as Ivan Mutavdžić, Assistant Adviser to the President for Foreign and European Policy. This collaborative spirit signifies a positive step forward in strengthening bilateral relations and fostering growth between the two nations.