CROATIAN PREMIER MEETS FORMER AND CURRENT PRESIDENT OF TURKEY

ANKARA, Nov 6 (Hina) - Croatian Prime Minister Ivica Racan, heading a Croatian government delegation on an official visit to Turkey, was received by Turkish President Ahmet Sezer in Ankara Monday. The Croatian Prime Minister positively assessed talks on bilateral relations, cooperation in the region and possibilities of expanding economic exchange between the two countries. Racan pointed to the Sezar's great reputation and influence in Turkey, stressing he was elected President after being the president of the Constitutional Court and completely unknown in politics. According to a survey, the Turkish President was almost unanimously supported by the Turkish people, namely he gained 98 percent of the vote. Turkey is a typical example of a country whose president can have a great influence with not as much authority, Racan said. The Croatian Prime Minister also held talks with former Turkish President Suleyman Demirel. The former President of Turkey, who was elected President seven times, is one of the persons who should be given all the credit for the strengthening of friendly relations between Croatia and Turkey. Racan said he held pleasant and substantial talks with "the traditional friend of Croatia" in his home in Ankara. All world officials travelling to Turkey are paying a visit to former President Demirel. (hina) it jn