Russian banks came to Croatia to stabilise the situation in Agrokor, which affects the stability of the government and the country as a whole, said the Russian Ambasador to Croatia, Anvar Azimov, on Tuesday.

“I wonder why your Western friends and strategic partners did not come and help with the Agrokor situation. Russia is a reliable friend and Russia has once again proved itself to be a reliable friend to Croatia,” Azimov said.

At an informal gathering in Zagreb’s Cvjetni Square, held on the occasion of Croatia’s participation in the World Cup in Russia, Azimov was asked about the plans the Russian banks had with Croatia’s indebted food and retail conglomerate Agrokor. He said Sberbank and VTB arrived in Croatia to help stabilise the situation in Agrokor.

“For no other reason. We will promote the stability of Agrokor in order to resolve the problem. For us, Agrokor’s stability is of utmost importance, as it affects the stability of your country, your government,” the Russian ambassador said.

After the restructuring process following a settlement deal with creditors, Sberbank will hold approximately 30 percent of the ownership share, while VTB will hold some 14 percent of the stocks in the new company.

A draft settlement deal was signed on April 10, while the final settlement deal is expected to be signed by July 10.