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Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English, 97-06-25

Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English Directory - Previous Article - Next Article

From: The Greek Press & Information Office, Ottawa Canada <grnewsca@sympatico.ca>

ATHENS NEWS AGENCY BULLETIN (No 1220), June 25, 1997

Greek Press & Information Office
Ottawa, Canada
E-Mail Address: grnewsca@sympatico.ca


CONTENTS

  • [01] New Athens airport on schedule, opening date set for Feb. 2001
  • [02] Future of current airport, OA discussed
  • [03] Philippines' president urges more investment from Greek businesses
  • [04] Simitis meets with Australian politician
  • [05] Greek official in Melbourne
  • [06] Norwegian parliament president in Athens today
  • [07] Koliopanos points to socio-economic ills in environmental problems
  • [08] Athens welcomes Albanian parties' agreement for free elections
  • [09] Tsohatzopoulos talks with Cohen center on CBMs for Aegean
  • [10] WEU forum
  • [11] Yugoslav premier in Greece today
  • [12] Vartholomeos to visit Hios in August
  • [13] Alexandria patriarch in Athens
  • [14] Ecclesiastical summit continues amid criticism
  • [15] Athens welcomes Holbrooke's interest in Cyprus problem
  • [16] Turkish military activity indicative of stance, Reppas says
  • [17] PASOK political secretariat meets on current affairs
  • [18] Simitis-Constantopoulos meeting tomorrow
  • [19] Draft bill foresees prosecutor's role in internal police probes
  • [20] Mitsotakis briefs Gov't on his recent meetings in Turkey
  • [21] ND central committee discusses results of Amsterdam summit
  • [22] Reppas comments on former justice
  • [23] KKE statement condemns 'imperialism, monopolies'
  • [24] Memorial event for Papandreou in Brussels
  • [25] Youth Parliament ends sessions
  • [26] Thessaloniki hosts regional conference on culture and reconciliation
  • [27] Anthony Quinn arrives in Greece
  • [28] Greece unhappy with Dutch presidency's compromise on EU farm prices
  • [29] Bank of Central Greece shareholders meet tomorrow
  • [30] Greek shipping inflows up 6.2 pct in February
  • [31] Greek equities end higher in correction
  • [32] Athens bourse, FTSE to present new share index
  • [33] Bayer Hellas sponsors on-line service for farmers
  • [34] EIB finances revival of tram for Kalamata
  • [35] Greek ports slap fines on maverick fishermen
  • [36] ATE, Beobanka sign agreement on deposit booklets
  • [37] DIEKAT five-month turnover at 2.7 billion drachmas
  • [38] Marlon Brando leaves for Cyprus

  • [01] New Athens airport on schedule, opening date set for Feb. 2001

    Athens, 25/06/1997 (ANA)

    Anew Athens international airport being built in Spata will begin operation in February 2001, Environment, Town Planning and Public Works Minister Costas Laliotis told a news conference yesterday. He expressed satisfaction over progress made on the project and said a set timetable was realistic and final.

    Speaking to reporters after an inspection of the airport site, the minister said construction in several sectors was well ahead of schedule.

    The organization and supervision of works by the Germany-based engineering and construction contractor Hochtief was impressive, he added.

    He said that 45 per cent of the scheduled ground works have already been completed and the rest would be finished by June 1998, while construction on the main terminal began in January along with the main water and electricity systems.

    In terms of the archaeological monuments on the site, the minister said that the Zagani mound, featuring prehistoric remains, would be leveled, while the Byzantine-era church of Agioi Pavlos and Petros will be moved outside the airport area.

    During the current phase, some 1,540 workers are employed on the site, of whom 115 are foreign nationals. According to the schedule, the number of workers will rise to 2,000 in July. Some 7,000 employees will work at the airport when it opens, Mr. Laliotis said.

    The new airport, budgeted at 658 billion drachmas, is one of the largest construction projects currently under way in Europe.

    It is funded by the Greek state and the European Union's Cohesion Fund with a joint contribution of 117 billion drachmas. The European Investment Bank is providing another 312 billion drachmas with private funding and bank lending covering the rest.

    [02] Future of current airport, OA discussed

    Athens, 25/06/1997 (ANA)

    Concerning the all-important issue of future land use for the current Athens airport (both terminals), Mr. Laliotis said the Hellenikon airport would shut down in 2001, when the new one opens, and the area it occupies now will be turned into a park.

    However, he noted that since the "costs would be very high", parts of the present airport will be used for what he called "mild construction development", without elaborating.

    The minister also noted that talks have begun between the new airport's contractors and Olympic Airways to gradually transfer the latter's facilities to the new facility. Olympic Airways will be given priority over its location at the Spata airport since it will be the basic customer at the site.

    The building contractors will manage the airport for 30 years and the new airport will handle up to 16 million passengers annually and around 600 flights daily.

    [03] Philippines' president urges more investment from Greek businesses

    Athens, 25/06/1997 (ANA)

    Filipino President Fidel Ramos urged Greek businessmen yesterday to invest in his country, saying that bilateral trade has major development prospects due to the two countries' stable economies and their strategic geographical position.

    Mr. Ramos was addressing the Commerce and Industry Chamber of Athens (EBEA) on the last day of his official visit to Greece.

    "Greece, as a member-state of the European Union and a bridge between the Middle East, central Europe and the Philippines, which lie at the crossroads of Asian and Pacific sea routes, has many competitive advantages yet to be exploited on a bilateral level," Mr. Ramos said. Urging closer links in the maritime sector, he said Greek-flagged vessels already employed many merchant seamen from the Philippines, while there also were major investment opportunities in the shipbuilding sector.

    EBEA president Ioannis Papathanasiou backed Mr. Ramos' call for closer business ties between the two countries.

    During their visit the Philippine delegation signed a co-operation agreement with the Hellenic Foreign Trade Board (HEPO).

    In addition, businessmen from Greece and the Philippines exchanged views during meetings of Europartenariat Hellas '97, an international forum for business co-operation that was held in Faliro's Peace and Friendship indoor stadium.

    [04] Simitis meets with Australian politician

    Athens, 25/06/1997 (ANA)

    Prime Minister Costas Simitis yesterday met with Victorian state premier Jeff Kennet, who is currently on a visit to Greece.

    The prime minister also met with a delegation from the Youth Parliament currently in session, which was accompanied by Parliament President Apostolos Kaklamanis.

    [05] Greek official in Melbourne

    Melbourne, 25/06/1997 (ANA - S. Hatzimanolis)

    Melbourne is the third largest Greek city in the world, if not due to the number of its Greeks, then because of the strong presence of its Greek community, Constantine Dallas, special advisor on educational issues to Alternate Foreign Minister George Papandreou, said yesterday.

    Mr. Dallas was in Melbourne to represent Greece at the three-day International Congress on the Development of Cultural Ties, which ended yesterday.

    Mr. Dallas referred to Greece's cultural policy vis-a-vis the overseas Greek community and stressed that distance was no hindrance to tighter Greek-Australian ties.

    Mr. Dallas met with Greek-origin MPs, and state government and Greek-Australian community officials.

    [06] Norwegian parliament president in Athens today

    Athens, 25/06/1997 (ANA)

    Norwegian Parliament President Kirsti Grondahl is due in Athens today for a four-day official visit at the invitation of her Greek counterpart, Apostolos Kaklamanis.

    During her stay, Ms Grondahl will be received by President Kostis Stephanopoulos and have talks with Foreign Under-secretary Yiannos Kranidiotis, Mr. Kaklamanis and the members of the Greece-Scandinavia parliamentary friendship group.

    She will also meet with main opposition New Democracy party leader Costas Karamanlis and Athens Mayor Dimitris Avramopoulos.

    [07] Koliopanos points to socio-economic ills in environmental problems

    New York, 25/06/1997 (ANA - M. Georgiadou)

    The major environmental problems of the planet cannot be successfully tackled and sustainability cannot be attained unless major socio-economic ills, such as poverty, are eradicated, Environment Under-secretary Theodoros Koliopanos said in his address to the 19th special session of the United Nations' second Earth Summit.

    "The use of sustainable production and consumption patterns must be identified and expanded... Capacity building and close co-operation with third partners and major groups, as well as public awareness, should be actively promoted," he added.

    Mr. Koliopanos also stressed the importance of elaborating strategies for freshwater and the oceans, of reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and of the negotiation of a global convention on forests.

    "Greece, while being rich in forest resources, is also extremely vulnerable to forest fires and deforestation, mainly due to climatic conditions. Considering that forests are indeed one of our most important assets, we strongly believe in sustainable forest management, according to the Rio principles and the proposals put forward by the IPF. In line with our partners in the EU, we advocate the establishment by the UNGASS, of an intergovernmental committee to negotiate a global forest convention," he said.

    In an interview with ANA on Monday, Mr. Koliopanos said that apart from the major general issues, such as the climate and biodiversity, the issues of special interest to Greece included coastal and water management, and the effects of tourism.

    "Our aim is to develop eco-tourism, conference tourism, and generally tourism in the framework of sustainable development," he said.

    The under-secretary, who participated in the crucial coordinating meeting of the 15 EU member-states on Sunday night, stressed that the issues at the top of the EU agenda "coincide to a large degree with the priorities of the Greek government".

    [08] Athens welcomes Albanian parties' agreement for free elections

    Athens, 25/06/1997 (ANA)

    Athens yesterday welcomed an agreement signed by Albania's major parties in Rome pledging to ensure a free and fair ballot in elections scheduled for this Sunday and recognizing the need for a coalition government.

    "We welcome this agreement... all of Greece's initiatives in the period preceding (the elections) have been inspired by this spirit as have the talks representatives of the Greek government had with representatives of Albanian parties visiting our country," government spokesman Dimitris Reppas said.

    The Rome agreement, he added, would help in ensuring free and fair elections.

    In an announcement issued shortly later, the foreign ministry reiterated Greece's support, stressing that Greek diplomatic activity had contributed to the achievement of the agreement and for the success of electoral procedures, which "is imperative for stability and democratic developments in friendly and neighboring Albania".

    Greece, it added, would continue to follow developments in the situation with unabated interest.

    [09] Tsohatzopoulos talks with Cohen center on CBMs for Aegean

    Washington, 25/06/1997 (ANA - T. Ellis)

    National Defense Minister Akis Tsohatzopoulos met yesterday with his US counterpart William Cohen with proposals by UN Secretary General Kofi Annan on adopting confidence-building measures in the Aegean dominating talks.

    Mr. Tsohatzopoulos pointed out Ankara's unwillingness to accept a summer extension of a moratorium on military exercises in the Aegean. He also rejected the possibility of Greece allowing Turkish warplanes to use certain air corridors in Greek airspace.

    "There never was, nor is there now such an issue," he said following the meeting.

    "I have made it clear that it is not possible that Turkish military aircraft be accorded special treatment whenever they want to pass through the international airspace in the Aegean," he stated.

    "They are obliged to move according to ICAO guidelines, in other words they are obliged to lodge their flight plans and their nationality.

    "Every country is obliged to do it because we have the responsibility of safe passage for all planes flying over the Aegean and if ICAO guidelines are not kept, then we cannot guarantee the safety of flights," Mr. Tsohatzopoulos added.

    Referring to the confidence-building measures in the Aegean, Mr. Tsohatzopoulos said that he briefed the US side on the Greek views, "which are very clear, and I expressed my regret that Turkey did not accept the extension of the moratorium on air force exercises in the Aegean".

    [10] WEU forum

    Washington, 25/06/1997 (ANA)

    Earlier, while speaking at a conference of the Western European Union's (WEU) inter-Atlantic forum being held in Washington, Mr. Tsohatzopoulos reiterated Greece's proposal on the creation of a "Balkan security council", as well as a "Balkan crises prevention center" at the level of Balkan nations' defense ministers.

    He referred at length to the Albanian crisis, saying that it shows in the most explicit way the need to strengthen democracy and the institutions of a state of law.

    Mr. Tsohatzopoulos termed European contribution a "crucial factor in the course of European stability and unification."

    The focal point of European policy has clearly shifted from the "center" to the "provinces" of Europe and more specifically to southeastern Europe, he said, adding that the "strategic and political concerns have shifted from what is now the anachronistic east-west axis to the crucial north-south axis."

    He said the foundations of the new Balkan security are maintaining the border status quo, not creating geopolitical axes of confrontation in the region and collective guarantees and commitments by countries in the region that they will abstain from the threat of the use of force and, of course, the use of force as a method of resolving problems.

    On Monday, Mr. Tsohatzopoulos met US Assistant Secretary of State Strobe Talbott at the US State Department and called on the US to exercise its influence on Turkey to stop disputing the status quo in the Aegean and creating a climate of destabilization in the region with its attitude.

    Mr. Tsohatzopoulos said the issue created by the statements made by a Pentagon spokesman, who noted the Greek origin of the Imia islets and the confusion created by the correction he made afterwards was not raised.

    [11] Yugoslav premier in Greece today

    Belgrade, 25/06/1997 (ANA - M. Mouratidis)

    Yugoslav Prime Minister Radoje Kodic is arriving in Athens today on a one-day visit that will include meetings with President of the Republic Kostis Stephanopoulos, Prime Minister Costas Simitis and Parliament President Apostolos Kaklamanis.

    The two prime ministers will hold talks on the development of bilateral relations, especially in the economic sector, the integration of Yugoslavia into the international community and issues relating to stability and co-operation in the Balkans.

    In an interview with ANA, Mr. Kodic said relations between the two countries were stable and based on traditional friendship, emphasizing the historical, cultural and spiritual closeness of the two peoples. These close relations were reaffirmed even during the most trying periods of modern history, he noted. "There are no problems between our countries," Mr. Kodic said, adding that "continuous political dialogue is an important contribution to strengthening bilateral relations".

    "We are making efforts to promote bilateral relations both in the interest of our peoples and in that of stability in the area. Our co-operation is successful and this was affirmed during the recent meeting of foreign ministers of southeastern European countries in Thessaloniki," he said.

    The Yugoslav prime minister said that economic co-operation with Greece had been restricted due to the United Nations Security Council sanctions, but economic relations had begun to develop after they were lifted.

    He cited as example the trade exchanges between Greece and Yugoslavia in 1996, which amounted to US$250 million, and expressed the hope that this year they would exceed US$500 million.

    Mr. Kodic expressed satisfaction over agreements reached between Greek company Mytilineos and the Trepca mines in Kosovo, amounting to about US$500 million, and the purchase by the Hellenic Telecommunications Organization (OTE) of 20 per cent of the shares of the equivalent Serbian telecoms organization for the price of 600 million deutschmarks.

    "We wish to create with Greece the conditions for free movement of people, goods and capital, and I'm expressing the belief that in the talks I will have with Mr. Simitis and other Greek government officials we will give further impetus to improving our relations and create wider opportunities to fully develop our bilateral relations," he said.

    Referring to the predominately ethnic Albanian Yugoslav province of Kosovo, Mr. Kodic said it remained an internal issue for Yugoslavia, which would not accept its becoming international.

    "Yugoslavia has been and remains prepared for talks with members of the Albanian minority but within the legal institutional agencies of the country," he said. "We are offering the Albanians guarantees for human rights according to the highest international standards," he added.

    [12] Vartholomeos to visit Hios in August

    Athens, 25/06/1997 (ANA)

    Ecumenical Patriarch Vartholomeos will visit officially the island of Hios on August 16 and 17 following an invitation by the island's Union of Mastic Producers.

    In a statement yesterday, the Patriarchate said the spiritual leader of the Orthodox Church would visit the island "to express his gratitude and give his blessing to the populace of Hios, especially those who cultivate the trees of mastic, which is a basic ingredient in the preparation of the Holy Myrrh".

    [13] Alexandria patriarch in Athens

    Athens, 25/06/1997 (ANA)

    The Patriarch of Alexandria and All Africa Petros arrived in Athens yesterday on a private visit.

    He was accompanied by a Metropolitan of Kenya Irinaios and was met by a delegation of government and church officials.

    Petros is expected to meet with President of the Republic Kostis Stephanopoulos, Prime Minister Costas Simitis, the Archbishop of Athens, ministers and other government officials to whom he will set out problems faced by the Patriarchate.

    [14] Ecclesiastical summit continues amid criticism

    Vienna, 25/06/1997 (ANA - D. Dimitrakoudis)

    The Second European Ecumenical Conference went into its first full day of meetings yesterday amid criticism that the Vatican has allegedly tried to manipulate the event.

    Ecumenical Patriarch Vartholomeos canceled his participation and in a statement charged that the Moscow Patriarchate and the Vatican had tried to dominate the conference.

    Criticism also came from Jan Fischer, secretary general of the European Churches Conference (ECC), one of the two main organizers of the event. Mr. Fischer charged the Vatican and the Moscow Patriarchate with trying to "undermine" the conference.

    The conference is organized by the ECC, which represents 123 Orthodox, Evangelical, Anglican and Methodist churches, among others, as well as the Council of European Conferences of Bishops, representing the Roman Catholic Church.

    [15] Athens welcomes Holbrooke's interest in Cyprus problem

    Athens, 25/06/1997 (ANA)

    The government yesterday described as "positive" the interest shown in the Cyprus problem by US special presidential envoy on the Cyprus issue Richard Holbrooke. "Mr. Holbrooke appears to want to deal in a systematic and diligent way with efforts to find a solution to the Cyprus problem," government spokesman Dimitris Reppas said. Mr. Holbrooke said on Monday that the Cyprus problem should be resolved within the framework of a single sovereign state.

    He added that the solution of a single sovereignty in the framework of a bi-zonal and bi-communal federation seemed "unavoidable". The envoy also firmly opposed linking the Cyprus issue with Greek-Turkish relations, especially concerning the Aegean .

    Mr. Reppas said however that the government would not "hasten to judge the US official's stance on the basis of statements alone", adding that "we shall wait for him to undertake the initiative and shall judge him in practice".

    In the government's view, Mr. Reppas said, Mr. Holbrooke's initiative will be manifested after quite some time, possibly following upcoming direct talks between Cyprus President Glafcos Clerides and Turkish Cypriot leader Rauf Denktash and elections in Cyprus.

    [16] Turkish military activity indicative of stance, Reppas says

    Athens, 25/06/1997 (ANA)

    The increased Turkish military activity in the occupied part of Cyprus reflects the "spirit" in which Turkish Cypriot leader Rauf Denktash is entering into talks with Cyprus President Glafcos Clerides, government spokesman Dimitris Reppas said yesterday.

    This, the spokesman added, is precisely the message being sent by Turkish activity on Cyprus.

    Noting that Nicosia had lodged relevant protests, Mr. Reppas expressed the hope that the Turkish military activity would be "taken into consideration" by international organizations.

    Mr. Clerides and Mr. Denktash will hold direct talks under UN auspices beginning July 9.

    [17] PASOK political secretariat meets on current affairs

    Athens, 25/06/1997 (ANA)

    Ruling PASOK's political secretariat met yesterday under the leadership of Prime Minister Costas Simitis to discuss current political developments.

    According to sources, they discussed preparations for the next central committee meeting scheduled for July 20 on local government, and issues related of the parliamentary committee.

    Party secretary Costas Skandalidis said they did not discuss the issue of when a foundation for the later party founder and Prime Minister Andreas Papandreou would be established.

    [18] Simitis-Constantopoulos meeting tomorrow

    Athens, 25/06/1997 (ANA)

    Prime Minister Costas Simitis and Coalition of the Left (Synaspismos) leader Nikos Constantopoulos tomorrow morning are expected to discuss Synaspismos' proposal for dialogue between all parliamentary parties, except the main opposition New Democracy, with the aim of tackling the country's major problems.

    Synaspismos has said such a dialogue would aim at reaching programmatic agreements on problems, and on improving the operation of the political system.

    However, the ruling PASOK party, the Communist Party, and the Democratic Social Movement have initially rejected the idea.

    [19] Draft bill foresees prosecutor's role in internal police probes

    Athens, 25/06/1997 (ANA)

    The public order ministry will bring about significant changes in police discipline regulations to achieve a more effective handling in cases of alleged corruption among police.

    Public Order Minister George Romeos publicized a draft law anticipating for the first time the involvement of a prosecutor in administrative investigations against officers or other law enforcement officials.

    Mr. Romeos said the measure concerning the presence of a prosecutor was considered necessary to ensure that evidence will not be gathered by officials but by specialized individuals. Another reason is to have cases probed in depth and objectively and the subject under disciplinary scrutiny to be protected in exercising his legal rights.

    [20] Mitsotakis briefs Gov't on his recent meetings in Turkey

    Athens, 25/06/1997 (ANA)

    Main opposition New Democracy party honorary president and former premier Constantine Mitsotakis briefed Foreign Minister Theodoros Pangalos for 40 minutes yesterday on his recent talks in Ankara with Turkish President Suleyman Demirel and main opposition Motherland Party leader Mesut Yilmaz.

    According to statements by Mr. Mitsotakis afterwards, an overall review of developments on national issues was made during the meeting. Replying to a question on the appointment of Richard Holbrooke as US President Bill Clinton's special envoy for the Cyprus issue, Mr. Mitsotakis reiterated that this appointment signals the fact that a painstaking and serious effort will be made this time to resolve the Cyprus problem. He said the effort will be completed and will heighten next year after presidential elections are held in Cyprus.

    Mr. Mitsotakis also referred to "problems in our neighborhood", stressing to Mr. Pangalos that special care must be taken to enable ethnic Greeks from northern Epirus to travel to their place of residence in order to exercise their right to vote (during Sunday's general elections in Albania).

    Mr. Mitsotakis said the Greek government, in co-operation with relevant authorities, must see that measures are taken to ensure the safe passage of ethnic Greeks to Albania and expressed satisfaction because "Mr. Pangalos has exactly the same view", while assuring him that the government is doing everything possible in this direction.

    [21] ND central committee discusses results of Amsterdam summit

    Athens, 25/06/1997 (ANA)

    In a marathon session yesterday, the main opposition New Democracy's central committee discussed the results of the Amsterdam summit, as well as the issues of Constitutional revision and party reorganization.

    According to most ND central committee members, the results of the summit were not particularly favorable for Greece, but different approaches were suggested for the party's criticism of the government.

    Former leadership ND contender George Souflias and former culture minister Dora Bakoyianni argued that the party must strengthen its pro-European character at every opportunity while conducting constructive criticism.

    Former national economy minister Timos Christodoulou said that the new European Union treaty is a moderate compromise text, but noted that government claims about a socialist renewal and new majority in Europe had collapsed.

    [22] Reppas comments on former justice

    Athens, 25/06/1997 (ANA)

    Government spokesman Dimitris Reppas said yesterday that recent statements by a former Supreme Court president that he would again vote to try late PASOK founder and president Andreas Papandreou on charges of embezzlement did neither him nor the country any good.

    "(Former Supreme Court President Vassilis) Kokkinos would do better to not raise incidents which do no honor either to himself or to the political life of the country," Mr. Reppas said when asked to comment on Mr. Kokkinos' statements.

    Mr. Reppas said the re-election of Andreas Papandreou in 1993 and of the Simitis administration in 1996 were evidence enough of the people's regard for Mr. Kokkinos' opinions.

    [23] KKE statement condemns 'imperialism, monopolies'

    Athens, 25/06/1997 (ANA)

    Important sections of the working classes are beginning to realize that the real threat against them originates in the discipline and compliance to the dictates of international imperialist organizations and big capital, a Communist Party of Greece (KKE) statement said yesterday.

    "It is important that the popular indignation and opposition be channeled to the fight against the monopolies and imperialism, and the rejuvenation of the class trade union movement," the statement added.

    Referring to the climate created after left-wing victories in France and Britain, KKE pointed out that the initial cries of victory quickly died down, and that after the Amsterdam summit, the working people are faced with new harsher measures which the PASOK government has begun introducing. The statement said KKE will insist on its position for a referendum on the new treaty.

    [24] Memorial event for Papandreou in Brussels

    Brussels, 25/06/1997 (ANA - M. Savva)

    Members of the European Socialist group honored the memory of the late prime minister Andreas Papandreou yesterday in an event here organized by the ruling PASOK party's prefectural committee in Belgium.

    Addresses were made by the president of the Socialist Group at the European Parliament Pauline Green, as well as by Greek EU Commissioner Christos Papoutsis.

    Ms Green paid tribute to Papandreou, saying that the strength of his soul and the way with which he governed Greece brought it to an equal position with the other European countries.

    "Without compromises, without ceding even an inch of his country's sovereign rights, Papandreou achieved rapprochement with western Europe," she said.

    [25] Youth Parliament ends sessions

    Athens, 25/06/1997 (ANA)

    President of the Republic Kostis Stephanopoulos, Prime Minister Costas Simitis, party leaders and cabinet members yesterday attended the closing session of the Youth Parliament comprised of 300 15 to 16-year-old "deputies" selected from some 17,000 high school students throughout Greece.

    The "Parliament" focused on the entire range of domestic and foreign policy issues facing Greece and called on their "adult counterparts," to endorse their proposals for the modernization of the country.

    [26] Thessaloniki hosts regional conference on culture and reconciliation

    Athens, 25/06/1997 (ANA)

    A conference on culture and reconciliation in southeastern Europe begins tomorrow in Thessaloniki.

    The three-day conference, which is organized by the "Union for Democracy in the Balkans", will discuss the parameters which affect contemporary culture in southeastern Europe.

    The conference will be held with the participation of politicians, scholars and scientists from Europe and the US.

    Speaking to reporters yesterday, President of the Union's Board of Directors, Nikos Efthymiadis, a former president of the Northern Greece Industries Association, said the union, which was established in 1995, was planning to create a "Center for Democracy in the Balkans."

    Main opposition New Democracy leader Costas Karamanlis and Culture Minister Evangelos Venizelos are members of the Union's Scientific and Political Strategy Committee.

    [27] Anthony Quinn arrives in Greece

    Athens, 25/06/1997 (ANA)

    Film legend Anthony Quinn arrived in Athens yesterday to attend a gala on Monday as the honored guest of a Greek monthly magazine.

    Mr. Quinn, who was accompanied by his wife and three children, starred in the lead role in the film "Zorba the Greek". He is also expected to attend an event in Irakleio, Crete, on the legendary figure of Zorba.

    He will be honored by the publication "Status".

    In statements at the airport, he said he had played in four films involving Greece and was currently participating in one on the life of Russian author Leo Tolstoy (1828-1910). He will stay in Greece until July 2.

    [28] Greece unhappy with Dutch presidency's compromise on EU farm prices

    Brussels, 25/06/1997 (ANA - P. Pantelis)

    Agriculture Minister Stephanos Tzoumakas, like most of his EU counterparts, said yesterday he was unhappy with the Dutch presidency's compromise proposal for the Union's new farm prices.

    Speaking at the EU farm ministers' council in Luxembourg, he said the proposal not only did not provide answers to the most direct and important Greek demands, but did not face them at all. More especially for cotton, he mentioned the payment of support s directly to the producers, the regionalization of penalties for excess production, and the permanent demand - along with Spain - for increased quotas.

    The compromise proposal contained a vague reference that Greece's wish for reforms in cotton, regarding the regionalization of joint-responsibility, would be discussed with the European Union.

    "For all these demands, you included in your proposal a vague statement. This statement must be made clear and include all the issues which are important for Greece, and their acceptance does not create additional fiscal demands.

    Meanwhile, the Council of Ministers adopted the regulation for improving the trading of honey, which is of direct interest to Greece. The regulation provides for the financing of programs in this field by the Community by up to 50 per cent.

    [29] Bank of Central Greece shareholders meet tomorrow

    Athens, 25/06/1997 (ANA)

    The Bank of Central Greece is holding its regular general shareholders' meeting at the Athens Chamber of Commerce and Industry at 11 a.m. tomorrow.

    The bank's board will propose the distribution of dividends at 40 drachmas per share, or 60 per cent of the net profit after taxes.

    They will also propose the free distribution to shareholders of one new share per ten old ones. The new shares will accrue from an approximate 985-million-drachma increase in capital following partial capitalization of reserves.

    On Monday, National Economy Under-secretary Christos Pachtas inaugurated the new Bank of Central Greece administrative center and branch in Kifissias Avenue.

    During his speech, Mr. Pachtas stressed that the government was firmly continuing its program for stabilization and competitiveness.

    He added that it was necessary to further reduce the difference between interest and deposit rates and said the banks' profit-making should be an outcome of reduced spending rather than the high cost of borrowing for businesses , traders and store owners.

    [30] Greek shipping inflows up 6.2 pct in February

    Athens, 25/06/1997 (ANA)

    Greek inflows of shipping exchange increased by 6.2 per cent in February to 164 million dollars compared to 154.4 million in the same month last year, the merchant marine ministry said.

    Shipping exchange inflows reached 344 million dollars in January and February this year compared to 347.9 million in the corresponding period of 1996, marking a 1.1 per cent drop.

    [31] Greek equities end higher in correction

    Athens, 25/06/1997 (ANA)

    Share prices reversed a sharp six-day decline to end higher in what traders described as a technical rebound of the market.

    The general index closed 2.11 percent higher at 1,498.94 points but was unable to recapture the 1,500-mark psychological level. The volume of trade shrank considerably with turnover at 16.4 billion drachmas.

    Most sector indices scored gains. Banks rose 3.56 percent, Leasing was 0.93 percent up, Investment increased 2.06 percent, Industrials rose 1.55 percent, Construction was 1.30 percent up, Holding jumped 4.62 percent and Miscellaneous rose 3.22 percent. Insurance bucked the trend to end 0.25 percent down.

    The parallel market for smaller cap stocks rose 0.36 percent.

    Broadly, advancers led decliners by 149 to 73 with another 15 issues unchanged.

    Shares of Hellenic Telecommunications Organization (OTE) remained under pressure as institutionals continued to sell the stock, which closed down 100 at 6,500 drachmas.

    Rilken, Housing Bank, Commercial Bank of Greece and Allatini scored the biggest percentage gains, while Fourlis, Tzirakian and Bank of Central Greece suffered the heaviest losses of the day.

    National Bank of Greece closed at 33,750 drachmas, Ergobank at 16,890, Alpha Credit Bank at 18,300, Titan at 12,070, Intracom at 12,050 and Aluminium of Greece at 15,045 drachmas.

    [32] Athens bourse, FTSE to present new share index

    Athens, 25/06/1997 (ANA)

    The Athens bourse and FTSE International, owned by the Financial Times and the London Stock Exchange, on July 1 will present a new index for Greek shares. Athens Stock Exchange chairman Manolis Xanthakis and FTSE International managing director Mark Makepeace will outline the new system to journalists and then introduce a technical presentation to members of the bourse.

    Present will be technical specialists from both sides who co-operated in the design and introduction of the new index.

    [33] Bayer Hellas sponsors on-line service for farmers

    Athens, 25/06/1997 (ANA)

    Farmers in Thessaly, central Greece will now be able to pick up the telephone to get vital information on crop protection and weather thanks to a new 24-hour system sponsored by Bayer Hellas.

    Up to now, such information was only available in the form of "Farmers' Warning" bulletins on the television, radio or in newspapers.

    The new system, the necessary installations for which were purchased and donated by the Crop Protection Department of Bayer Hellas, will directly provide farmers with information and solutions to everyday problems relating to their cultivations.

    The overall program is being implemented by the Crop Protection Service of the Agriculture Directorate of Larissa.

    [34] EIB finances revival of tram for Kalamata

    Athens, 25/06/1997 (ANA)

    After more than half a century a tram service will start operating again in the streets of the Peloponnesian town of Kalamata on a track laid before the Second World War.

    The Greek state signed a contract worth 3.5 billion drachmas with the European Investment Bank to fund re-establishment of the tram service and a face lift of the central and coastal roads in the city.

    The funding mechanism of the European Free Trade Association will cover 85 percent of the project, with the remainder coming from state sources.

    Under the plan the tram service is expected to begin operations in summer 2000.

    [35] Greek ports slap fines on maverick fishermen

    Athens, 25/06/1997 (ANA)

    Greek port authorities imposed fines totaling more than 77 million drachmas on professional and amateur fishermen in 326 cases of illegal fishing in the first five months of 1997.

    Port authorities found 155 violations of the fishing code by professional fishermen and imposed fines of around 44 million drachmas. Boat and fishing licenses were revoked for a total of 2,990 days.

    Another 164 fishing violations involved amateur fishermen with fines totaling 31 billion drachmas.

    [36] ATE, Beobanka sign agreement on deposit booklets

    Athens, 25/06/1997 (ANA)

    Agricultural Bank of Greece (ATE) and the Yugoslav bank Beobanka finalized an agreement yesterday establishing deposit booklets in both the Greek and Serb languages.

    ATE Governor Christos Papathanasiou and Beobanka President Zlatan Perusic signed the agreement for their respective banks.

    The new booklet provides the citizens of the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia who have accounts with Beobanka in foreign exchange with the possibility of withdrawing drachmas in Greece.

    Addressing a joint press conference in Athens at noon, Mr. Papathanasiou and Mr. Perusic announced the signing of a co-operation protocol between the two banks, clarifying the desire of both sides to co-operate closer.

    The protocol anticipates the joint creation of a third bank in Yugoslavia, establishment of joint venture companies in the sectors of mutual funds, leasing, factoring, etc.

    In another development, the Agricultural Life Insurance company signed an agreement with the Yugoslav Beobanka Insurance, a subsidiary of Beobanka, on Monday for co-operation in the sectors of training, planning and promotion of insurance products, as well as the development of computerization systems.

    [37] DIEKAT five-month turnover at 2.7 billion drachmas

    Athens, 25/06/1997 (ANA)

    The DIEKAT company's turnover totaled 2.7 billion drachmas during the first five months of the year, while it projects a turnover of 8.2 billion drachmas for all of 1997.

    The construction company's remaining projects that have not yet been completed amount to eight billion drachmas. The dividend per share is 145 drachmas and will be deducted from the price of the share today.

    DIEKAT's turnover totaled 7.95 billion drachmas in 1996, while net profits amounted to 1.39 billion, an increase of 17 per cent.

    According to a press release, the company's strategic target is to expand into Balkan markets, particularly Romania.

    [38] Marlon Brando leaves for Cyprus

    Athens, 25/06/1997 (ANA)

    Hollywood legend Marlon Brando left Greece today for Cyprus after a four-day visit as a guest of shipping magnate Yannis Latsis' daughter, Marianna.

    Speaking on Monday night at an event on the environment entitled "Biochemical Dilemmas of Our Times" at the Athena Pallas in the Athens suburb of Kifissia, the often controversial actor said "it is logical that you hate the Turks for invading Cyprus".

    "There is not a page in history which has not been written in blood. The weak have and will always be put against the wall," Mr. Brando said, speaking of the genocide of native American Indians, the death of 800,000 Tutsis in Africa and "the Americans w ho went to Vietnam and were dehumanized".

    Speaking further on the war in Vietnam, Mr. Brando condemned US presidents Kennedy, Johnson and Nixon for sending 60,000 young Americans to their death "just to satisfy their political ambitions".

    The kids who were sent to Vietnam were not to blame, he said, adding:

    "The ones who sent them to fight, invoking freedom, the motherland and economic prosperity were to blame."

    End of English language section.


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