CROATIAN PREMIER VALENTIC VISITS SPLIT

SPLIT, May 6 (Hina) - Croatian Premier Nikica Valentic, in capacity of special envoy of Croatian President Franjo Tudjman, arrived in Split this afternoon to participate in celebration of the day of this Croatian seaport and its patron saint "St. Duje" on May 7. Premier Valentic is visiting Split, accompanied by ministers Mate Granic, Jure Radic, Nadan Vidosevic, Niko Bulic and other associates. After the arrival Premier Valentic met aldermen of Split- Dalmatia County in the chamber of commerce. County Prefect Kruno Peronja and other county officials informed the eminent guests of rather difficult economic situation in southern Croatia. Premier Valentic responded that the visit of so numerous delegation of Croatian senior officials and ministers to Split can show that Croatia's leadership attaches a great importance to Split. Valentic said the latest developments in the country proved the fact that the establishment and organization of the Croatian state was at a high level despite economic troubles. Only a very- well organized state could re-establish its entire authority in just 24 hours in liberated western Slavonia, he added. Speaking of the stabilization programme Valentic said that it would be carried out according to plans. He also brought good news to Split that the Croatian Government would offer collateral to the European and World Banks for loans aimed at the ecological project for protection of the Bay of Kasteli. Valentic also informed Split aldermen that money was provided for construction of a detour by Split. Premier Valentic is to meet Split County and city businessmen. Afterwards he will attend a solemn mass in the Cathedral of 'St. Duje' and later the presenting of the city's awards in the Croatian National Theatre. (hina) mms 061953 MET may 95