ALBRIGHT CONGRATULATES 'GONG' ACTIVISTS ON ELECTORAL ACTIVITIES

ZAGREB, Feb 2 (Hina) - The United States Secretary of State on Wednesday congratulated the activists of Croatian NGO GONG on their successful following of Croatia's parliamentary election last month which, she said, made it possible that citizens for the first time freely and justly elect their representatives in parliament. State Secretary Madeleine Albright, in a brief visit to Croatia, gave the highest praise to GONG's contribution to democratic changes in Croatia. At the time of her last visit to Croatia, in August 1998, genuine democracy in Croatia was, she said, a continuously postponed dream. Albright said Croatia had turned towards true democracy primarily thanks to the decision made by its people, as well as thanks to the courageous and persistent efforts of GONG and similar associations to have fair elections, and to urge as many people as possible to vote. Thanks to your efforts, the electoral turnout was 80 percent, Albright told GONG, pointing out it was a fact which had made all democracies in the world proud, the U.S. included. Speaking about today's talks with Croatia's new political leaders, Albright said her message to them all was the same, namely to persevere and stay on the path of reforms Croatia had undertaken. Reminded of her own Slavic origins and special sensitivity for this region, Albright promised full U.S. assistance and her personal support. Democracy in Croatia will become even stronger after the February 7 presidential elections, the state secretary said, and noted GONG's effective contribution to the first presidential round on January 24. On behalf of GONG, Albright was greeted by executive director Suzana Jasic, who thanked the state secretary for her visit, pointing out it was the highest recognition GONG's thousands of observers and other activists could receive for their work. GONG organises citizens in election monitoring. (hina) ha