DEFENCE MINISTER RECEIVES IRISH COUNTERPART

ZAGREB, Aug 16 (Hina) - Croatian Defence Minister Pavao Miljavac on Monday received Irish Defence Minister Michael Smith in an unofficial visit to the Irish representation at the Second World Military Games being held in Zagreb. Following the meeting, Minister Miljavac told journalists that he spoke to his counterpart about the games. The talks also reflected on the Stability Pact and events relating the Kosovo. We agreed on future cooperation between the armed forces of Croatia and Ireland, Miljavac said, adding that conditions existed to advance the level of cooperation with regard to peace operations and an exchange of information regarding the experiences of Irish "peace keepers" in Croatia. Minister Smith expressed satisfaction with the organisation of the current military games. He explained that Irish forces have 40 years of experience with UN peace keeping operations in over 30 countries. Smith was pleased that Croat candidates would in the future be attending the UN military school located in Ireland. He added that in addition to training in peace operations, there were other opportunities open for military cooperation. (hina) sp