SERB, CROAT COMMISSIONS FOR EXCHANGE OF POWS MEET IN KUPRES

MOSTAR, 29 Feb (Hina) - Representatives of the Croat and Serb commissions for the exchange of prisoners of war yesterday met with IFOR (Implementation Force) representatives in the Kupres IFOR base and discussed the implementation of the Dayton Agreement on the release of prisoners of war, a statement from the Herzeg-Bosnian Office for prisoners of war and missing persons said. #L# The meeting, chaired by U.S. Major Jim Hocker, was also attended by a delegate of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in Mostar, Barbara Eger. The Serb side failed to release 17 prisoners of war, who had been registered with the ICRC. The Serbs are holding another 11 prisoners, who have not been registered by the ICRC and who should be included in the exchange. The Croatian side was prepared to release 51 Serb prisoners of war in exchange for 28 Croats held by the Serbs, the statement said. The commissions for the exchange of prisoners of war are to meet again on 4 March when they will decide on the date of the exchange. (hina) ns mm 291240 MET feb 96