CROATIAN VICE PREMIER RECEIVES ELISABETH REHN

ZAGREB, June 6 (Hina) - The implementation of the plan for peaceful reintegration and the return of refugees were the main topics of Friday's talks between a Croatian Deputy Prime Minister, Ljerka Mintas- Hodak, and UN human rights Special Rapporteur Elizabeth Rehn. "We insisted, and Mrs. Rehn agreed, that the return plan should be complied with, because it is a way to avoid incidents", Mintas-Hodak said, stressing it was necessary to understand the delicateness of the situation, as well as the problems of returnees and of those in the return area. "I gave Mrs. Rehn the data on crimes committed in the Danube region and asked her to act so that these crimes may be (punished) and further destroying of property prevented, (…) the cultural heritage protected, especially the church in Ilok", Mintas-Hodak said. She also asked her guest to advocate that the same level of rights the Serb community has in Croatia be ensured to Croats in the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. "It is important that Serb refugees be able to return to their homes, since that makes it possible for Croatian refugees to return", UN's Special Rapporteur said after the talks, adding "this means that safety must be guaranteed to both sides." Rehn expressed concern about the destruction of cultural sites and said she would do all in her power to protect them. "There are still many incidents, but we hope that we shall (solve this) sooner or later, so that people can be safe in their country", Elisabeth Rehn concluded. (hina) ha jn 061347 MET jun 97