ZAGREB, Nov 20 (Hina)- Croatian Prime Minister Ivica Racan on Wednesday received UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan with whom he spoke about the situation in Croatia, its problems with transition and efforts to implement reforms with
particular emphasis on the issue of co-operation with the Hague Tribunal, the issue of refugees and displaced persons and regional co-operation.
ZAGREB, Nov 20 (Hina)- Croatian Prime Minister Ivica Racan on
Wednesday received UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan with whom he
spoke about the situation in Croatia, its problems with transition
and efforts to implement reforms with particular emphasis on the
issue of co-operation with the Hague Tribunal, the issue of
refugees and displaced persons and regional co-operation. #L#
As noted in a press release from the Government, the UN Secretary-
General praised the government for progress achieved so far and
expressed support to Croatia to step away from the burden of the
past dedicate itself to development and strengthening regional
stability and security.
He expressed satisfaction with Croatia's willingness to co-operate
with the Hague Tribunal and said that he believed that Croatia had
made significant progress. Reflecting on his meeting with Hague
Prosecutor Carla del Ponte in Belgrade, Annan said that
satisfaction was expressed during the meeting with regard to
Croatia's co-operation with the Hague Tribunal and that it was
necessary to lodge additional effort so that justice can be
satisfied.
Premier Racan said that Croatia today was a stable country which
resolved serious reform obligations and added that prospects of
this kind were of exceptional importance to Croatia's contribution
to stability in the entire region. The Premier reiterated that
Croatia had co-operated with the Hague Tribunal until now and would
continue to do so because this was its strategic determination. He
also pointed out the significance of resolving contentious issues
with neighbouring countries where relations are improving.
During the talks, both parties pointed to importance of resolving
the issue of refugees, displaced persons and returnees that would
contribute to reconciliation, regional co-operation and the
establishment of lasting peace.
Annan expressed satisfaction with progress achieved in Prevlaka
and with the fact that one more UN mission had been successfully
completed.
He added that UN forces on Prevlaka would withdraw after an
agreement between Croatia and Montenegro, or rather Serbia, was
reached.
Premier Racan confirmed that the agreement would be concluded prior
the expiry of the UN mandate on Prevlaka on December 15, this year.
(hina) sp it sb