RACAN VISITS PLIVA

ZAGREB, June 19 (Hina) - The decision on the sale of the government portfolio at the Pliva pharmaceutical company (25 percent of shares, plus the golden share) has not been made, Prime Minister Ivica Racan said today, dismissing, as he put it, all speculation, half-information and alleged information which appeared in the media. The Prime Minister spoke to reporters at Pliva after talks with the company's leaders ahead of the company's first forum -- a meeting of a government delegation with the company's managers -- scheduled for tonight. Accompanying Racan were Vice-Premier Slavko Linic and Economy Minister Goranko Fizulic. Racan commented on renowned and recognisable companies in Croatia, stressing that he also spoke with Pliva's leadership about what to do and how so companies like Pliva could spur development and technological advancement. With our measures we wish to contribute to make these companies as strong as possible and make it possible for them to expand their markets. The government's strategy is to help such work and continuation of their successful business, Racan said. (hina) lml sb