DJUKIC PREDICTS PEACE WILL BE STRENGTHENED IN REGION IN 1997

ZAGREB, Jan 6 (Hina) - The Serb People's Party (SNS) leader, Milan Djukic commented on political developments and the party's work in the last year and forecast events in 1997, at a party held on Monday in Zagreb to mark New Year and Christmas according to Julian calendar, celebrated by Serb Orthodox believers. Speaking of the political situation in Croatia and forecasts for 1997, Djukic said he was sure that it was clear to the international community that the Croatian authorities had failed to observe the basic points of human and democratic rights. He added that hopes were well-founded for consolidating peace in these areas in 1997. He stressed the importance of presidential and local elections in Croatia this year, and voiced a hope that fresh and unburdened people would appear after the elections. At the end Djukic wished a happy New Year, as well as a merry Christmas to the Orthodox faithful. (hina) mš 061804 MET jan 97