NEW DELHI: CROATIAN PRESIDENT ADDRESSES CROATIAN-INDIAN FORUM

NEW DELHI, Nov 13 (Hina) - The US$45 million Croatian-Indian trade in 2001 is below the real possibilities of the two countries which are interested in stepping up economic ties, Croatian President Stjepan Mesic said in New Delhi on Wednesday, adding that small Croatia could open a door to the European market for India's strong economy. #L# Mesic spoke at a Croatian-Indian economic forum interactive session which addressed the two countries' economic possibilities. The session was held as part of the first visit a Croatian head of state pays India. Mesic is accompanied by about 20 leading Croatian businessmen. "Croatia is a small market but Croatia may be an entrance to the European market for India's mighty economy," Mesic told Croatian reporters. India's large market represents an opportunity for Croatia's economy, he said. The two economies "know one another very little" so businessmen should exchange visits, he added. Mesic said he was very satisfied with the reception in friendly India. Talks with Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee addressed, among other things, the struggle against terrorism and India's bids to become a permanent UN Security Council member. Mesic voiced understanding for these aspirations and announced Croatia would support in principle a planned reform of the Council. After signing an agreement on cooperation in agriculture and a memorandum on understanding for export stimulation, Mesic met Indian President Abdul Kalam. (hina) ha sb