Cyprus Mail: Press Review in English, 98-12-29

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From: The Cyprus Mail at <http://www.cynews.com/>

Tuesday, December 29, 1998

D-day for the Russian missiles

ALL the papers yesterday reported prominently on speculation regarding the fate of the S-300 missiles.

To Tharros joined the rest of the papers in previewing President Glafcos Clerides' visit to Greece to discuss whether the missiles would be deployed in Cyprus or not. The paper said that, according to its sources, Greek Prime Minister Costas Simitis would completely support Clerides' views on the issue, especially since these views had been agreed upon by Clerides and Simitis weeks ago.

The paper also carried a report quoting the machinery and cement company Athienitis Brothers Ltd. as saying that they had not been the suppliers of 12 faulty wind and frost shields which cost Kokkinotrimithia potato farmers £300,000 in damage. The company had suggested the shields two years ago, but did not make a bid when tenders were called for.

Haravghi led with the headline, "S-300: The ultimate decision." The paper continued that "all indications make it almost certain that the missiles will not be installed in Cyprus."

The paper said that the most likely alternative was for the missiles to be installed in Crete.

Haravghi also reported on fears for 1999 tourism. The paper quoted hotelier association Pasyxe's general-secretary as saying that an expected recession in Great Britain could have negative consequences on tourism to Cyprus.

Alithia said Greece would pay the remainder of the money Cyprus owes for the missiles so that they would be installed in Crete. The paper also said that the Cypriot officers Russia had trained to operate the S-300s would be posted to Crete. The money Cyprus has already paid for the missiles will be returned to Cyprus from Greece with the supply of another type of missile, the paper claimed.

The paper also printed a witness' allegations that elder Iosif had embraced her. The Mount Athos elder is being investigated by the Holy Synod after Paphos Bishop Chrysostomos made allegations of improper behaviour against Iosif.

Phileleftheros said "Athens' position will judge everything." The paper continues that the two largest parties in Cyprus, Akel and Disy, and the United Democrats Party will base their opinions on Athens not wanting the missiles to be installed in Cyprus. The rest of the parties, Diko, Edek and New Horizons, meanwhile, would insist on the existing National Council decision to deploy the missiles as they do not believe the situation has changed.

Simerini continues with the various party opinions, adding that Clerides would ask Simitis for clarification on the missile issue.

© Copyright Cyprus Mail 1998

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