CRO FOREIGN MINISTER MEETS COE PARLIAMENTARY ASSEMBLY CHAIRMAN

ZAGREB, June 20 (Hina) - Croatian Foreign Minister Tonino Picula on Tuesday held talks with the chairman of the Council of Europe Parliamentary Assembly, Lord Russell Johnston, on the situation in Croatia and problems encountered by the Croatian government, the Foreign Ministry said in a statement. Picula informed Lord Johnston about the current situation in the country and the most important problems, such as the high unemployment rate and a devastated economy. Croatia's economic development is a priority and it is therefore necessary to motivate foreign investors to invest into Croatia, Picula said. Lord Johnston, who is on a three-day visit to Croatia, expressed interest in the adoption of a new constitutional law on minority rights. Picula said the law should be adopted in six months. The Foreign Minister also emphasised the importance of adopting a law on public television as well as of fulfilling obligations regarding Croatia's cooperation with the Hague war crimes tribunal. He expressed Croatia's readiness in general to transform its legislation as soon as possible in line with European standards. In that process, Croatia needs Europe's support and assistance, Picula said. (hina) mm rml