HSP INSISTS ON PARLIAMENTARY DEBATE ON IRAQI CRISIS

ZAGREB, Feb 25 (Hina) - The Croatian Party of Rights (HSP) insists on a parliamentary discussion on Croatia's attitude towards the Iraqi crisis so that conclusions parliament adopts on the issue may be guidelines for the government's conduct in the case. #L# The HSP leader, Anto Djapic, who held a news conference on Tuesday, said there were too many open issues while the government was incompetent and failed to consult parliament about some moves. It is necessary to hold the parliamentary debate also so as to show finally who holds what stand on the issue, Djapic added. Croatia is member of the United Nations but not of the European Union or NATO, and the HSP is advocating that one should comply with the UN Security Council's decisions, the chief of this right-wing opposition party added. He described the situation as serious and complex, given that, he said, a war against Iraq would not be only a war against terrorism but also an action motivated by the United States' plans to strengthen its clout in the Middle East. Croatia is a member of the "anti-terrorist coalition" but can derive no benefit from American global political and economic interests, Djapic said. According to Djapic, it would be detrimental for Croatia's reputation and its economic interest in the Arab world, should Zagreb allow US aircraft to use the country's air space and bases, and he added that Zagreb should seek some assurances and compensation in the event of some damage. "We are not for the trade with the Croatian dignity, but we are for the trade with interests," he said reiterating that Zagreb hastily joined the Vilnius Group in its recent declaration. (hina) ms