IZETBEGOVIC ASKS EU TO EXTEND MANDATE IN MOSTAR

SARAJEVO, Nov 9 (Hina) - Bosnia-Herzegovina's president of presidency, Alija Izetbegovic, Saturday asked the European Union to extend its mandate in Mostar in 1997 as well, and cautioned that opposite decision could seriously affect the unification of the southern Bosnia-Herzegovina's town. In a letter that he sent to the EU ministerial council chairman Dick Spring, Izetbegovic reiterated that in the past two years when the EU officials worked in Mostar, peace was established and first steps made toward the reconciliation of the two peoples (Croat and Moslem) in the town. The town unification process, which began after the 30 June municipal elections, was going on at a slow but stable pace, with the EU mission assistance, the letter said adding that the town council was set up and agreement reached on the appointment of the town administration and police. Mostar is a key point in the (Croat-Moslem) Federation of Bosnia-Herzegovina, and the positive developments in the town directly influence establishment of important federal institutions and cantons in line with the national elections' results, according to the letter. Reduction in the presence of the EU may encourage the extreme forces that try to hamper the inevitable unification of the town, Izetbegovic stated in the letter to Spring, and added that the extension of the EU mission would contribute to the lasting stability in the region. (hina) mš 091934 MET nov 96