PREFECT, REPS. OF RETURNEES, OSCE DISCUSS RETURN

OSIJEK, Nov 27 (Hina) - Osijek-Baranja County prefect Marko Bagaric on Monday discussed economic, social, reconstruction and refugee- return related issues with the deputy chief of the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) Mission to Croatia. Also present at the talks was Josip Kompanovic, president of the Association of Returnees of Croatia, who described the talks as "protocol," saying that not one question had been provided with a concrete answer. OSCE's Todd Becker said after the talks they focused on inciting the economic recovery of this eastern region. OSCE recognises the importance of the link between economy and stability, he said. According to Becker, harmony among ethnic groups, good government and the rule of law contribute to the creation of conditions necessary to attract investors. Prefect Bagaric said the OSCE representatives had offered a series of advice on how the local level could create conditions for the settling of the mentioned issues. "Most, however, are on the legislative level, especially long-standing administrative and procedural issues which need to be eliminated to make Croatia attractive for foreign investors." Kompanovic said he briefed Becker about the situation in so-called areas of special government concern from which people are relocating again. The government does not have an adequate programme for economic revitalisation in said areas, he said. "This area needs a social programme, and if we don't get on via the state budget we have to consider whether we should call on people to leave this area for good," said Kompanovic. (hina) ha jn