MESIC FLIES TO TOLEDO

ZAGREB, Oct 5 (Hina) - Croatian President Stjepan Mesic on Thursday morning departed for Toledo, Spain, to attend the central celebration of the 500th anniversary of the birth of Spain's King and Holy Roman and Hapsburg Emperor, Charles V, who managed to unite a great part of Europe under his rule in the beginning of the 16th century. Prior to his departure Mesic said his visit to Toledo was a symbolic act in memory to Charles V during whose reign many events happened with great impact on the following history of Europe. In addition, his kingdom is regarded by many as a prototype a trans-national state and the germ of a united Europe. Besides Mesic, statesmen of Germany, Austria, Belgium, Slovenia, Hungary, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands and Switzerland, will attend the event. Their host is the King of Spain, Juan Carlos. Many events marking this anniversary are being held this year. The central ceremony will take place in Toledo, as this city was the Spanish King's residence from 1516 to 1561. Croatian President will finish his visit to Spain by his tour to Croatian Embassy in Madrid this evening. (hina) ms