MESIC SATISFIED WITH IMAGE OF CROATIA, DISSATISFIED WITH ECONOMY

ZAGREB, Aug 14 (Hina) - If I were to assess the six months of the work of the new Government, I would say I was most satisfied with the changed image of Croatia in the world, but am dissatisfied with the situation in the economy, Croatian President Stipe Mesic told Croatian Television Sunday night. Asked about the possibility of the disintegration of the new ruling coalition of six parties, Mesic dismissed the possibility adding there was no alternative to the six parties. Expressing satisfaction with his last week's visit to the United States, Mesic said the Croatian delegation, which included Prime Minister Ivica Racan, had wished to point out the fact that investments into Croatia were possible and worthwhile. He asserted Croatia had received American support for cooperation with the Hague-based international war crimes tribunal. Regarding the issue of Croatian Armed Forces Chief-of-Staff General Petar Stipetic, Mesic reiterated the tribunal's chief prosecutor Carla del Ponte had during talks with Mesic not mentioned Stipetic. Mesic added there was no indictment against the Croatian General. "That investigations are underway is clear. Into whom the investigations are being carried out can only be speculated," he asserted. Asked whether he would continue to publicise transcripts of talks held by the late President Tudjman, Mesic said a commission had been formed to look into the transcripts and ascertain which can be published, and which are of a personal nature, as well as which could be used for possible processing of criminal acts. With regards to constitutional changes which should be adopted by the end of the year, Mesic reiterated he would insist that he be the commander-in-chief of the armed forces in war and peace conditions, to take part in the appointment of the heads of intelligence services and that he be a co-creator of foreign affairs. (hina) lml