CROATIAN PRESIDENTIAL COUNCIL BEGINS TWO-DAY SESSION

ZAGREB, May 25 (Hina) - The Presidential Council began a two-day session under the chairmanship of President Franjo Tudjman in Zagreb on Saturday to discuss the international position of Croatia. The opening address was delivered by President Tudjman. Foreign Minister Mate Granic will report on Croatia's international position, Prime Minister Zlatko Matesa will report on European and world economic integrations, Deputy Foreign Minister Ivan Simonovic will focus on international political integrations, Deputy Defence Minister Lt. Gen. Kresimir Cosic will present Croatia's military and security position in the light of political and security integrations and Presidential Chief of Staff Ivo Sanader will report on Croatia and Balkan integrations. The Council's second session involves about 150 participants, including members of the parliamentary Foreign Relations Committee, leaders of the parliamentary parties, prominent public figures, and journalists and political analysts. The President established the Presidential Council in November 1995 as his advisory body. It meets from time to time to discuss current political, economic and cultural issues and the international position of the country. (hina) vm 251124 MET may 96