PM RACAN SAYS 2001 CRUCIAL FOR REFORMS

ZAGREB, Jan 4 (Hina) - Prime Minister Ivica Racan said on Thursday the government was aware 2001 was a crucial year for reforms, development and employment. "This year the government will have the chance to show the quality and efficiency of its performance," Racan told the government's first session in the new year. He announced a special session to which the president of state will be invited and which will state in detail what the government did last year and what it intends to do in 2001. This month already, the government should tackle many issues in connection with development and employment, said Racan. Among the good steps the government has taken thus far, he included the settlement of past debts, namely 8.5 billion of 9.5 billion kuna, the restitution of citizens' insured savings, and a successful execution of the state budget. The prime minister also pointed to the government's crucial contribution to preventing the growth of public spending, saying it provided for a successful realisation of the government's four- year programme. Many steps taken last year were aimed at normalising the economic and social sectors and development, Racan said. "We are aware that the effects could not be seen immediately, but with the measures we intend to take, we expect these effects this year." (hina) ha