TUDJMAN OPENS AUTUMN INTERNATIONAL ZAGREB FAIR

ZAGREB, Sept 15 (Hina) - Croatian President Franjo Tudjman on Monday opened the 73rd Autumn International Zagreb Fair, the biggest and oldest economic manifestation in this part of Europe. Opening the Fair, President Tudjman expressed belief the manifestation would contribute significantly to the strengthening and expansion of Croatia's economic cooperation with the world. Recalling the immense war sufferings and other difficulties Croatia faced in the past seven years, President Tudjman pointed out big results had nevertheless been achieved in the privatization, stabilization and development of Croatian economy. "A significant economic growth has been registered in 1995 and 1996", Tudjman said, adding "this year, a 6-7 percent gross domestic product growth rate is expected, with good prospects that it remain such in the next medium term." "The realization of such rate would stand as one of the biggest growth rates in transition countries", he said. This year's Autumn Fair, to last until 21 September, will feature 2,985 exhibitors from 45 countries, of which 1,274 are Croatian and the rest are from abroad. This year's partner-country is Poland. The number of exhibitors appearing this year is higher than those featured last year and those appearing in pre-war year 1990, said the general director of the Zagreb Fair, Jurica Pavelic. It is estimated the present manifestation, taking place on premises over 145,000 square metres, will be visited by over 250,000 people, he added. Present at today's opening were also high Croatian officials, ambassadors accredited in Croatia, numerous businessmen, representatives of education, science and culture institutions, as well as numerous foreign delegations. (hina) ha jn 151315 MET sep 97