IVAN VALENT APPOINTED NEW HDZ SECRETARY GENERAL

( Editorial: --> 4129 ) ZAGREB, Feb 23 (Hina) - The Presidency of the ruling Croatian Democratic Union (HDZ) Monday held its first session in the new composition under the chairmanship of party President Franjo Tudjman. According to a statement from the party's general secretariat, the party presidency evaluated the preparation, course and results of the party's fourth general convention held over the weekend as exceptionally successful. Ivan Valent was appointed secretary general of the HDZ, while Drago Krpina was appointed deputy secretary general and spokesman of the HDZ Presidency. The statement pointed out the fourth general party convention again demonstrated the full unity and stability of the party as regards all goals put forward in the party programme declaration. The HDZ Presidency thanked all members and organisations of the HDZ, all envoys of the fourth convention, guests from home and abroad, and media representatives. (hina) ha 232343 MET feb 98