EUROPEAN INTEGRATION MINISTER RECEIVES EUROPEAN COMMISSION ENVOY

( Editorial: --> 5484 ) ZAGREB, July 3 (Hina) - It is difficult to say how much Croatia is now closer to the European Union, but it was never expected to produce either over-night results or perfection, but a sincere resoluteness to implement its remaining commitments, which now exists, special envoy of the European Commission in Croatia, Per Vinther, said in Zagreb on Friday. After talks with Croatian Minister for European Integration, Ljerka Mintas-Hodak, Vinther held a news conference. The plan for the return of refugees of the Croatian government has directed us back to the right path, the atmosphere is good, and I think this alone is very positive. I have always stressed that we do not expect of Croatia neither perfection nor over-night results, but a sincere dedication, the elements of which are now visible, Vinther said. Mintas-Hodak said a formal invitation had been extended to Vinther so he may get acquainted with the work of the Croatian government on the European integration plan. She presented him with the work of the government Office for European Integration, as well as the recently established coordination of different ministries. Mintas-Hodak also informed Vinther about the good results achieved in education. "We have managed to receive 15 one-year scholarships in various universities around the world, and many people will be able to attend summer seminars," Mintas-Hodak said. She added that Croatia would next year organise courses of introduction to European institutions and law. The talks also focused on the fulfilment of political requirements for the opening of dialogue with the European Union, she said. "Per Vinther applauded the programme for the return which was recently adopted and we expect to work together on any potential problems in its implementation, which we do not believe will be significant," Mintas-Hodak said. She said that the final adoption of amendments to the law on the Croatian Radio and Television would "surely influence the further democratisation of electronic media". Describing the talks as constructive, Vinther said the programme for the return of refugees and displaced persons was a good foundation for dialogue about further steps and conditions Croatia had to fulfil in order to get even closer to the European Union. Vinther expressed satisfaction with the work of the Office for European Integration which will, according to him, enable a much speedier progress. At the moment that we are ready to open the PHARE programme and begin negotiations on trade and cooperation agreements we will be relieved because the basis and necessary knowledge will already exist, Vinther said. (hina) lml 031919 MET jul 98