WORLD BANK OFFICIAL ON FIVE-DAY VISIT TO CROATIAN RAILWAYS

ZAGREB, Nov 13 (Hina) - The World Bank's four-member mission, led by Peter Parker, will consider this week the activities which the Croatian Railways (HZ) have carried out or are planning to do in accordance with a project of the restructuring of the HZ, financially supported by the World Bank. According to a statement released by this public company, HZ Director-General Marijan Drempetic has reiterated the management's stand that the implementation of the restructuring and modernisation project, backed by the Croatian Government and the HZ, is the only way for the firm's survival. In this context Drempetic has assessed the World Bank's assistance as valuable. This week's talks between World Bank officials and HZ management will revolve around the elaboration of a social programme for possible layoffs, privatisation and other topics. During its five-day tour, the World Bank delegation will meet also officials from ministries of transport and economy, the national Office of Employment and some HZ services. After that it will draw up a report which both parties should accept as the foundation for their joint further activities. (hina) ms