BANJA LUKA BISHOP CALLS ON CRO GOVT TO ASSIST IN RETURN OF CROATS

( Editorial: --> 4373 ) ZAGREB, Feb 25 (Hina) - Banja Luka bishop Franjo Komarica Tuesday called on the Croatian Government to assist in the return of Croat refugees and displaced persons to Banja Luka, northern Bosnia- Herzegovina. Komarica called on the Croatian Government to assist in the reconstruction of houses and churches, and on Croatian companies to open their branch offices and invest in Banja Luka economy, in order to create conditions for the return. It is necessary to continue sending charity aid, as Croats who stayed in Banja Luka live exclusively on such aid, the bishop said. During the war tens of thousands of Croats were expelled from or left the Banja Luka area, while more than 400 were killed, including five priests, Komarica said. He pointed out that 98 per cent of churches and 33 per cent of other church buildings were demolished. The situation in the Banja Luka area has not improved, Komarica said, adding the principal cause was fear of insecurity. He added a high number of Croats who had stayed in the area during the war were now leaving due to poverty. (hina) ha jn 251227 MET feb 98