CROATIA AND CZECH REPUBLIC SIGN MILITARY COOPERATION AGREEMENT

( Editorial: --> 2113 ) ZAGREB, March 24 (Hina) - The Croatian and Czech defence ministries signed in Prague a military cooperation agreement which paves the way for successful and promising long-term cooperation, said Croatian Deputy Defence Minister General Kresimir Cosic in a short statement on Tuesday. Cosic was speaking after the return of the Croatian Defence Ministry's delegation from a one-day visit to the Czech Republic. The talks evolved around the Czech Republic's experiences as member of the Partnership for Peace programme, as well as efforts the country's has made to gradually join NATO, as they can be useful for Croatia. After the signing of the agreement, the Croatian delegation, led by head of the Croatian Army general staff, General Pavao Miljavac, held talks with the Czech Defence Minister and army chief of staff as well as the Czech Parliament's committee for armed forces and national security. According to Cosic, by signing similar agreements with Hungary, Austria, Slovakia and soon with Poland, Croatia will have created a good foundation for long-term defence cooperation with central European countries. (Hina) mm mr /mb 242204 MET mar 98