PRESIDENT CLINTON MEETS ETHNIC GROUP REPRESENTATIVES

CLEVELAND, Jan 14 (Hina) - After talks with those taking part in the "Conference on Changes and Investment in Central and Eastern Europe" in Cleveland, President Bill Clinton Friday met 25 members of 14 of America's ethnic communities. The Croatian American community was represented by Steve Rukavina (treasurer of Croatian Brotherhood Federation and Federation vice president), Joseph Brigich (vice president of the Croatian Brotherhood Federation), Malchior Masin (head of the Croatian Catholic Association and Federation vice president), and well-known activist Zdenka Gast. Rukavina reminded President Clinton of the guarantees America gave Croatia and suggested that he visit the country. Clinton replied that his timetable was full but he would like to be able to include in it, a visit to Croatia. Malchior Masino called for greater United States commitment in resolving the Croatian question. In his address to the Conference, Clinton emphasised that America was not withdrawing from international politics and that economic ties and trade were ideal ways for nations to get to know each other. (hina) jn sd 141319 MET jan 95