CROATIA NEEDS AID TO ECONOMICALLY REVIVE LIBERATED AREAS

( Editorial: --> 0950 ) ZAGREB/NEW YORK, March 19 (Hina) - Croatia welcomes efforts for more financial aid to developing, transition and post conflict countries, Croatia's Ambassador to the United Nations Ivan Simonovic told the UN General Assembly's Second Committee on Thursday. "The interests of a highly integrated world extend also to economic reintegration of the affected areas since such action reinforces the sustainability of stability," stressed the Croatian ambassador, according to a release by the Croatia's Mission to the UN in New York. Following the peaceful reintegration of the Croatian Danube region on 15 January, the international community decided that successful reintegration of the region hinged on economic revival. Croatia cannot resolve that problem unaided. It has suffered major material damage and shouldered the burden of a large number of refugees and displaced people from Croatia and Bosnia-Herzegovina, Simonovic said. "The lack of resources for economic development is impacting upon the process of return of displaced persons, including two-way returns," the Croatian ambassador said. "Croatia's response to this situation has been to look to its own capacities and resources, but also to those of the international community whose interest also lies in the stability which flows from development. "In this connection Croatia, with the assistance of the EU and OSCE, shall hold a pledging conference for reconstruction and development in which a particular focus shall be given to the process of return of displaced persons. The two day conference will be held on 18 and 19 May this year. "Croatia has sought to attract finance for development both within and outside the United Nations system. Its experience has shown that developmental issues cannot be separated from issues of peace and stability. It also shows that multilateral organisations should cooperate in the development process thereby creating the appropriate mix of expertise required. "The United Nations is a primary stake holder in peace in Croatia's neighbourhood and in many other places around the world. It should continue its commitment to post conflict situations in a fashion most likely to ensure sustainable development and stability," Simonovic concluded. (Hina) jn mr /mb 192118 MET mar 98