TUDJMAN OFFERS CONDOLENCES TO CLINTON

ZAGREB, April 3 (Hina) - After learning the news about the crash of a US plane in southern Croatia on Wednesday, Croatian President Franjo Tudjman sent the following message to US President Bill Clinton: "Deeply distressed by the news about the disappearance of the aircraft carrying the US Secretary of Commerce Mr Ronald H. Brown and the members of the high United States Government and business delegation, and fearing the worst, let me offer - on behalf of the entire Croatian people and in my own name - our most sincere and heartfelt condolences. "Mr Ronald Brown was on the way to his official visit to Croatia, a visit meant to contribute to the enhancement of our friendly relations in the economic field as well, when an unfortunate stroke of fate prevented him from carrying out this noble task. "Rest assured, Mr President, that the Croatian people perceive this tragic accident as their own, feeling in their sorrow even closer to the friendly American people and committing themselves to the completion of the task undertaken by Mr Brown. "In this sad moment, please accept, dear Mr President, the renewed assurances of my highest consideration." Croatian Foreign Minister Mate Granic sent a message of condolence to US Secretary of State Warren Christopher. Granic said that "their tragic departure represents a truly great loss to all of us. At this moment it is difficult to begin even to contemplate the enormity of this loss." "Secretary Brown has been on the noblest of missions - the mission of understanding, friendship and cooperation among the nations and peoples. It has been a mission of hope that will - despite his demise - give a new meaning to the peace process. "It saddens me that Secretary Brown will not be able to witness the fruits of his noble endeavour," Granic said in his message. (hina) vm jn 032156 MET apr 96