FOREIGN MINISTRY CONCERNED ABOUT HAIDER'S STATEMENTS

ZAGREB, Feb 4 (Hina) - The Croatian Foreign Ministry shares the concern of the European Union regarding the preservation of democratic achievements in Austria and opposes statements given by Joerg Haider concerning the position of national minorities and foreign nationals working in Austria, the Ministry said in a statement on Friday. Should actions be taken in line with such rhetoric in Austria, the Ministry believes it could seriously threaten the democratic development of Europe, in particular of South-East Europe, to which Austria has been significantly contributing so far. The Ministry noted with concern some statements by Joerg Haider, since a significant Croat minority - Burgenland Croats - live in Austria. In line with Austria's state agreement of 1955, Burgenland Croats enjoy guaranteed minority rights. There is also a relatively large number of Croatian citizens working in Austria, the Ministry said. The Ministry believes that the newly-formed Austrian government would continue the policy toward the minorities and foreign nationals working in Austria that has been conducted so far, in line with the high standards of the Council of Europe. Any departure from those principles would jeopardise their acquired minority and human rights, it is added. At the end of the statement, the Ministry said it believed the excellent relations between Croatia and Austria would continue developing positively. (hina) rml