CROATIAN, SLOVENE MINISTERS SIGN AGRICULTURAL PROTOCOL

GORNJA RADGONA, Aug 26 (Hina) - Croatian and Slovene agriculture ministers, Bozidar Pankretic and Franci But, on Monday signed the 43rd protocol on completing negotiations on the liberalisation of trade in agricultural products. The protocol is important for Croatia's entry into the CEFTA (Central European Free Trade Agreement), of which Slovenia is already a member. #L# After the signing, Pankretic said that joining CEFTA was among the priorities of the Croatian government, and the protocol signed today would enable the continuation of strengthening mutual trade. The 15 percent customs protection for importing wheat will remain in effect because of surplus wheat in Croatia, he said. The cooperation between the two countries' agriculture ministries is excellent and can serve as an example of how to solve issues between Croatia and Slovenia through agreements, particularly because of the current problems in relations, Pankretic said. Slovenia's But said that talks on the protocol had been prolonged because of Slovenia's interest for Croatia to open its market for importing Slovenia's beef, which had been closed last year after the first case of mad cow's disease (BSE) had been discovered in Slovenia. But added the two ministers today agreed that the Croatian market would open for Slovenia's cattle next week, and fresh beef in the autumn. Becoming a member of CEFTA in Autumn is very important for Croatia, But said, stressing that that would benefit both countries. (hina) lml