CROAT VOLUNTEERS OF HOMELAND WAR COMMENCE 3RD CONVENTION

ZAGREB, May 7 (Hina) - The association of Croatian volunteers of the Homeland War (UHDDR) commenced its 3rd convention in Zagreb on Sunday. The convention attracted several thousand delegates, guests from the country and the world, and Croatia's senior officials. Croatian President Franjo Tudjman's special envoy, Defence Minister Gojko Susak, addressed the convention. Speaking of the liberation of western Slavonia Minister Susak stressed the Croatian people had told the world this was their country, and Croatia's people and citizens were able, ready and very well equipped to liberate their homeland. Susak said to volunteers: "You are the conscience of Croatia", and called on them not to allow that any tactless action happened which might be to the detriment to their homeland. Susak said the Croatian government stood by the association of the Croatian volunteers of the Homeland War, and would help them to be better organized and exercise their rights. Numerous representatives from Croatia, Herzeg-Bosnia, Croatian Diaspora, national minorities, and others addressed the 3rd UHDDR convention. (hina) mms 071340 MET may 95