Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English, 01-06-18

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From: The Athens News Agency at <http://www.ana.gr/>

CONTENTS

[01] Athens pleased with EU stance on expansion, optimistic over Cyprus prospects

[02] DM does not exclude other candidacies, apart from Simitis, for PASOK's presidency

[03] Karamanlis stresses 'no let up' over summer months

[04] Avramopoulos raps both major parties at inaugural KEP conference

[05] Cem's interview covers Cyprus, Greek-Turkish relations

[06] Statue of late PM Andreas Papandreou unveiled in Rhodes

[07] President receives honorary plaque in Achaia prefecture

[08] Athens reiterates request for return of Parthenon Marbles

[09] Ecumenical Patriarch attends twinning ceremony of Greek and Turkish municipalities

[10] Axon inaugurates Samos route this month

[11] Clerides says EU Summit at Goteborg 'quite important'

[12] Cyprus government satisfied over UN resolution

[01] Athens pleased with EU stance on expansion, optimistic over Cyprus prospects

GOTEBORG, 18/06/2001 (ANA – V. Mourtis)

In a press briefing for Greek reporters, Prime Minister Costas Simitis reiterated that the European Council’s decisions regarding expansion are “irreversible” and that candidate-countries, which have completed accession negotiations by late 2002, will participate in the 2004 Euro-elections.

However, he added that “procedures will be accelerated” for candidate-countries that haven’t completed negotiations by the end of 2002 in order allow them to also hold Euro-elections in 2004.

Simitis spoke as rioters battled police on Goteborg’s streets one day earlier, with several injuries later reported.

Specifically in terms of Cyprus, Simitis again stressed that the island republic is among the “first group” of EU candidate-states ready for accession, saying it has completed 22 out of 31 chapters for harmonizing its legislation with the Union’s acquis communautaire. Additionally, he expressed confidence that Cyprus will finish negotiations with the 15-member bloc by the end of 2002.

In reference to Turkey, the Greek premier said of the neighboring country that it must make greater progress in certain critical areas, such as human rights, while also fully meeting the terms laid out by the IMF for economic reform.

In a related development, Simitis also responded to comments by Turkish Foreign Minister Ismail Cem this week, namely, that "Turkey will not sacrifice Cyprus" on the alter of its (Turkey) EU prospects. The Greek PM noted that Ankara has assumed specific commitments for its EU course and must meet them, whereas he added that Cem has made similar statements in the past and is expected to do so in the future.

Roughly one-third of Cyprus' territory remains occupied by the Turkish military since an invasion in 1974, while Ankara also props up an illegal Turkish Cypriot regime in occupied northern Cyprus that only it recognizes.

On his part, Greek FM George Papandreou told Reuters that his hope is for Ankara to demonstrate a stronger desire to resolve the long-standing Cyprus issue

"There is a great opportunity for a solution, as we can bring both Greek and Turkish Cypriots into the EU ... Under a new constitution ... there would be a very positive European prospect for both. All aspects can be solved in the European framework, including protection of minorities, human rights and so forth," he said.

FYROM: Regarding the worrying situation in the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM), Simitis praised the EU's devotion to the policy of maintaining recognized borders in the Balkans and the territorial integrity of the beleaguered land-locked state to Greece's north.

Asked about the possibility of establishing an international force to intervene in FYROM - and the possibility that Washington will not commit troops to such a force - Simitis said that if European countries commit forces then Greece would also follow suit.

[02] DM does not exclude other candidacies, apart from Simitis, for PASOK's presidency

Athens, 18/06/2001 (ANA)

Tsohatzopoulos said it was self-evident that the incumbent president will be a candidate, adding that "you do not know whether he will be the only candidate. We shall see. Everything is discussed at a congress."

Tsohatzopoulos, commenting on foreign affairs and on a statement by Turkish Foreign Minister Ismail Cem that "an improvement in Greek-Turkish relations is to the benefit of both countries" wondered how this will be achieved "since, despite their various statements, the Turks are not making concessions and are insisting on their unilateral and legally groundless claims against Greece".

Tsohatzopoulos said the key to improving relations between the two countries is "for a political will to exist which will be facilitated now through the process of Turkey's adjustment to the EU."

He further said the decision taken at the European Union's Goteborg summit necessitating a start to the EU's enlargement course after the intergovernmental conference, to take place in 2004, is helpful for the prospect of Cyprus's accession to the EU.

Tsohatzopoulos said the key to developments in Kosovo and the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM) is the stance to be observed by the Albanian people and the Albanian government.

He also said the government's decision for Greece to participate in a NATO military force in FYROM does not deviate at all from Greece's steadfast policy on the avoidance of military intervention in neighboring Balkan countries.

In an interview with the Sunday edition of "Eleftherotypia" as well, Tsohatzopoulos referred to the PASOK government's course, saying that there is ground for the climate to be reversed provided there is speed in defining a new action plan and determination and boldness in taking decisions.

Tsohatzopoulos said "the 12th hour which will sound final failure has not arrived for the government."

On the question of the government's "left turn", he said "it cannot take place with words and old slogans which, indeed, are not compatible with the lips voicing them."

He added that it could be understood with specific social measures and tangible proof which the citizen will meet every day on the way to his work.

Tsohatzopoulos further said a government reshuffle should take place and should not be a target in itself but a symbolism for a new start, adding that it should include new persons from the parliamentary group.

Referring to himself, the defense minister sees himself undertaking either the foreign ministry or the national economy ministry or the position of deputy prime minister with parallel responsibility for an important portfolio.

[03] Karamanlis stresses 'no let up' over summer months

Athens, 18/06/2001 (ANA)

The ND president inaugurated the conference on Saturday, with several other top cadres, including George Souflias, Dora Bakoyianni, Marietta Yiannakou and Nikitas Kaklamanis, also addressing delegates. ND deputy Prokopis Pavlopoulos spoke on Sunday.

In raising a banner of unflinching political independence, as he said, Karamanlis on Sunday stressed that "even if not one radio or television station airs anything having to do with ND, we still must come closer to citizens and brief them on your positions. Compromises are out of the question on such matters..." he said.

Additionally, he criticized the government as being "self-conceited, arrogant and vain".

On Saturday, Karamanlis noted that ND would take up the issue of fielding candidates for the upcoming municipal and prefectural elections after September.

Referring to the contentious social security reform issue that dominated headlines in April and May, Karamanlis charged the PASOK government with simply putting up a "social facade" behind which its initial proposal still stands.

"They're bargaining with each other over pensions, while their only worry is how to remain in power," he said.

Finally, he reiterated a call to oust National Economy Minister Yiannos Papantoniou, blaming him for the Athens Stock Exchange's (ASE) dismal performance over the past year and a half, while also pointing thinly veiled criticism at Public Works Minister Costas Laliotis for what he called "shocking charges regarding public works projects.

"The only thing those governing are attempting to do is scoff at anyone raising an objection, and to divert discussions ... but regarding the essence (of the matter) they can't find a word to say," Karamanlis said.

Liberals Manos displeased with ND: Liberals Party leader and former New Democracy (ND) minister Stephanos Manos is reportedly considering an end to his party's post-electoral cooperation with main opposition ND.

In an interview published on Saturday in the financial newspaper "Imerisia", Manos said cooperation between ND and his small Liberals Party has not occurred, as originally agreed to prior to the April 2000 elections.

He also rejected any notion of co-operating with the newly founded party established by Athens Mayor Dimitris Avramopoulos.

[04] Avramopoulos raps both major parties at inaugural KEP conference

Athens, 18/06/2001 (ANA)

In touching on two recurring political "scenarios" swirling around the future of the "Movement of Free Citizens" (KEP) party, Avramopoulos again reiterated that he won't stand for re-election as Athens mayor in the next race, while stressing that he's not interested in any type of pre- or post-election cooperation with New Democracy - the party that backed him in his two previous mayoral campaigns.

The 48-year-old career diplomat-turned-politician's statements at the conference come on the heels of two polls apparently showing a decline in support for Avramopoulos' KEP following initial voters' preferences gauged in the mid teens in late March.

Among others, he appeared optimistic that his new political formation will "transform into a party challenging for power", while calling PASOK and ND "unconvincing parties with worn-out structures ... led in the name of their own self-preservation ... and returning to the age when they were established. PASOK is exhibiting an ever-increasing regime mentality, while ND isn't convincing that it has the strength to propose something new and modern," he said.

KEP's inaugural congress is set for September in Thessaloniki, where Avramopoulos is expected to unveil the party's political planks.

[05] Cem's interview covers Cyprus, Greek-Turkish relations

Athens, 18/06/2001 (ANA)

The Turkish minister's statements appeared in a published interview on Sunday in the "Vima" newspaper.

His comment came in response to a question over a recent warning he issued over the island republic's EU accession prospects, where among others, he referred to a "Turkish reaction" in case Cyprus' joins the European Union before a political solution on the island.

"What I said when I was on Cyprus is that if 'things get really messed up, then I want to say in all honesty that we are all in for problems.' I also said that more than anyone Turkey (will bear the most problems), but nevertheless, we will all have problems."

Cem spoke from Turkish-occupied northern Cyprus, as roughly one-third of the island republic remains detached from internationally recognized Cypriot government rule.

Asked if he has always been in favor of a Greek-Turkish rapprochement, Cem answered "always".

"And I believe that this is to the benefit of Turkey and Greece".

Finally, in comments about his Greek counterpart, George Papandreou, Cem referred to him as an "exceptional intellectual as well as a very good foreign minister ... he's a tough negotiator with me, but if I were Greek I would consider him an outstanding FM of mine".

Finally, he also referred to last week's "Piri Reis" issue -- when press reports in Athens claimed a Turkish research vessel would conduct oil exploration surveys in the Aegean's international waters

"We can't face problems under the spotlights of excessive publicity, and with a dialogue via the press", he said.

Cem added that he briefed Papandreou over the matter immediately, assuring the Greek side that the vessel wasn't conducting surveys in Greece's continental shelf.

[06] Statue of late PM Andreas Papandreou unveiled in Rhodes

Athens, 18/06/2001 (ANA)

Laliotis said Andreas Papandreou was "a charismatic national leader and a politician in the service of the people who struggled with passion for democracy and national independence".

"Five years have passed from the time Andreas Papandreou passed on. All these years, alone since then, we have continued to forge ahead with confidence and optimism on new paths which he determined and signaled with his dominant presence in a great and crucial turning point for the course of the nation and our people," he said.

Among others, Papandreou’s widow Dimitra Liani-Papandreou, PASOK Central Committee secretary Costas Skandalidis and many parliamentarians, attended the ceremony.

[07] President receives honorary plaque in Achaia prefecture

Athens, 18/06/2001 (ANA)

"Of course, it is never appropriate for executive powers to be given to a president. However, more regulatory powers could be given," he said.

President Stephanopoulos said corruption does not exist in the highest ranks of politics but of administration, adding that public administration should be rid of "this shame".

"We are currently experiencing the most calm period of democracy in the country. I am confident that we shall continue to improve and promote democracy which should shine because there is no ideal type for this form of government," he further said.

Parliament President Apostolos Kaklamanis also addressed the event and referred to politicians from the Achaia area, which include two presidents of the republic and 13 prime ministers and underlined their contribution to the nation.

[08] Athens reiterates request for return of Parthenon Marbles

Athens, 18/06/2001 (ANA)

Minister Evangelos Venizelos said he not only conveyed his congratulations but also attempted to set the foundations for what he termed a "significant Greek-British cultural partnership".

The Greek government has vigorously petitioned London over the past 20 years to exercise its influence on the British Museum so that the latter returns a collection of magnificent ancient friezes hacked off the Parthenon on the Acropolis by a notorious English ambassador in the early 19th century - before the Greek War of Independence from Ottoman rule.

The Parthenon Marbles were sold to the British Museum by Lord Elgin after being shipped to England.

[09] Ecumenical Patriarch attends twinning ceremony of Greek and Turkish municipalities

Athens, 18/06/2001 (ANA)

The event was attended by Ecumenical Patriarch Vartholomeos, Minister of the Aegean Nikos Sifounakis, mayors and representatives of social agencies and of the political world.

Gera Mayor Voyiatzis said "our act does not constitute an intervention in the foreign policies of our governments", adding that it only symbolizes the will of the two peoples for peaceful cohabitation in the Aegean.

On his part, Altinoluk Mayor Ismail Aynour referred to those who allow a group of provocateurs to intervene between the two peoples and to sow hatred, saying that "we should not allow anyone to think he can turn back the river of friendship we have created, confirming the traditions of centuries."

Vartholomeos blessed the twinning of the two municipalities and planted an olive tree together with the two mayors, while saying that "we believe and proclaim that relations between Greeks and Turks should be relations of friendship, cooperation and good neighborliness in the interest of both countries."

Vartholomeos also addressed cordial greetings to Archbishop of Athens and All Greece Christodoulos and the Greek Church during a service at the Metropolitan Cathedral in Mytilene on Sunday.

[10] Axon inaugurates Samos route this month

Athens, 18/06/2001 (ANA)

Two daily flights to the island will be carried out by the airline's new twin-engine "1RJ 145" planes, according to a company press release.

Axon opened its doors in 1998 by offering flights to foreign destinations, while it has also shown an interest in participating in state-run Olympic Airways' privatization over the past few years.

[11] Clerides says EU Summit at Goteborg 'quite important'

LARNACA, 18/06/2001 (CNA/ANA)

Speaking at Larnaca Airport, President Clerides said the Summit conclusions on Turkey, which urged the country to take concrete measures to implement the priorities of the Accession Partner-ship noting that in a number of areas such as human rights further progress was needed, "mean a lot to Cyprus, because the Accession Partnership says substantive and strengthened talks must be held on the Cyprus problem".

President Clerides said although Cyprus was a front-runner in accession negotiations, he would prefer Cyprus to accede along with other candidate countries.

He added that the Summit unanimously set out a framework "determining the course of those countries that will conclude their harmonization in 2002", thus enabling them to accede and sign the agreements, which will be ratified by the national parliaments, and in 2004 will have candidates running for the European Parliament.

The president noted that the whole of Cyprus would accede to the European Union, and said that if the island was still divided, due to the Turkish occupation of its northern third since 1974, then it may not be possible to apply the acquis communautaire all over the island. However, he pointed out "the same occurred in the case of Germany".

[12] Cyprus government satisfied over UN resolution

NICOSIA, 18/06/2001 (CNA/ANA)

Papapetrou told CNA "it was expected" that the resolution would not contain an addendum requested by Turkey and Turkish Cypriot leader Rauf Denktash, and confirmed that Turkey had made efforts towards the inclusion of an addendum.

"Of course there were attempts by Turkey to include an addendum, as well as efforts to include a reference to Denktash's letter to UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan, which did not happen", Papapetrou added.

Regarding the situation in Strovilia, Papapetrou said the Security Council notes the necessity to restore the status quo ante in the area, and urges the Turkish side and the Turkish Cypriots to lift the restrictions on UNFICYP operations.

He added "it is obvious that pressure is still being exerted on Turkey regarding this issue, and it gives the message that the matter will not be forgotten".

The Turkish occupation forces illegally put up a checkpoint in the southeastern area of Strovilia as part of measures against UNFICYP in retaliation to the non-inclusion of an addendum in a report by Annan for an earlier renewal of the Force's mandate with a Turkish demand for separate discussions with UNFICYP. The UN has some 1.200 peacekeepers in Cyprus, who patrol a 180-kilometre-long buffer zone across the island, divided since Turkish troops invaded and occupied 37 percent of its territory in the summer of 1974.

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