CRO-AMERICAN ASSOCIATION CALLS ON U.S. TO ASSIST RETURN TO CROATIA

( Editorial: --> 0436 ) WASHINGTON, July 29 (Hina) - The Croatian-American Association (CAA) on Tuesday welcomed the passing of a law on the return of refugees, displaced and exiled persons in Croatia, and called on the United States to assist in the process. The CAA believes that Croatia once again demonstrated its commitment to becoming a vital member of the western alliance and a significant factor in Europe, said a CAA statement. Even though a large number of returns was registered only in Croatia, Zagreb was routinely accused of obstructing the return of Serbs, said the CAA. Croatia's detractors, and especially the U.S. set punishments including the withdrawal of international loans in order to force Croatia to a policy which is both economically unacceptable and politically charged. The CAA believes it is time for the U.S. and the international community to stop with its constant tirades and acknowledge Croatia's willingness to cooperate with the western world, in order to make the environment more stable. Given that many of the obstacles awaiting the returnees in Croatia are economy-related, the CAA also called on the U.S. to assist in the reconstruction and development of Croatia. (hina) ha jn 291230 MET jul 98