CROATIAN GOVERNMENT REVIEWS FIRST 60 DAYS OF STABILIZATION PROGRAM

PROGRAM $ ME ZAGREB, Dec 2 (Hina) - The Croatian Government reviewed results achieved during the first 60 days of implementing the stabilization programme at a session on Thursday. In the first stage, which ended two months ahead of schedule, the inflation rate dropped several index points lower than expected, stressed Prime Minister Nikica Valentic. The second stage includes restructuring of the economy, further cuts in public spending, settlement of the public debt, rehabilitation of banks and encouraging of production. The ultimate end is external convertibility and introduction of the convertible Croatian currency before Statehood Day next year, provided that the political and military situation does not deteriorate. Mr Valentic emphasized that the Government would make no compromise in the implementation of the second stage of the stabilization programme. 021845 MET dec 93