CROATIA PARTICIPATES AT BUSINESS FORUM IN ISTANBUL

ISTANBUL/ZAGREB, Jan 25 (Hina) - Croatia on Thursday presented its model of financing and developing businesses at a forum on businesses and the development of companies taking place in Istanbul on January 25 and 26, the Croatian Economy Ministry said in a statement. The forum was organised by the Organisation for economic Cooperation and Development and is among the leading initiatives within the Stability Pact investment strategy. Presenting the Croatian model of financing and developing entrepreneurship, Assistant Economy Minister Renata Seperic stressed the development of small and middle scale entrepreneurship was among the chief goals of the Croatian government and the pillar of economic development. The Croatian government and the Economy Ministry are analysing possibilities and seeking optimal solutions for stimulating business and cooperation among companies at a regional level. Further strong drawing closer to European associations and membership in the World Trade Organisation is expected to influence the increase of foreign investments and the development of the entrepreneurship atmosphere in the country. Cooperation with the EU, EFTA, CEFTA and the signing of free trade agreements with neighbouring countries will become an important factor in Croatia's international orientation. Laws on stimulating foreign investments and free trade zones, as well as numerous other reforms will be the foundations of all future efforts aimed at improving the overall investment atmosphere and conditions for business in Croatia, Seperic said. (hina) lml