Croatian PM visits RI

Croatian PM visits RI

JAKARTA (JP): Croatian Prime Minister Nikica Valentic is scheduled to arrive in Jakarta this afternoon to begin a brief two-day visit.

Minister/State Secretary Moerdiono announced yesterday that Valentic and President Soeharto are expected to explore ways to establish economic ties between the two countries.

The former Yugoslav republic is a center of economic activities and industry, he noted.

Indonesia recognized Croatia in May 1992, soon after it declared its independence from Yugoslavia. Four months later, in September, it formally established diplomatic ties.

Valentic will be accompanied by his top economic advisor Franjo Greguric, Economic Minister Nadan Vidosevic and Transportation Minister Ivica Mudrinic, Moerdiono said.

He did not rule out the possibility that the two leaders would also discuss the latest situation in Bosnia-Herzegovina, given Soeharto's position as chairman of the Non-Aligned Movement.

He added that Croatia appears to want to open a diplomatic mission in Jakarta soon.

Soeharto and First Lady Mrs. Tien Soeharto are scheduled to host a banquet in honor of the Croatian guest tonight.

Valentic and his entourage will leave Indonesia after talks on Monday. (emb)