Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English, 01-10-06

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

CONTENTS

[01] Greek FM addresses NATO conference in Bulgaria

[02] Barnier cites delays, irregularities in Greek land registry project

[03] Town planning minister calls EU's decision on land registry redemptory

[04] Spokesman says Turkish press report on terrorism gossip

[05] Greek FM to undertake initiative for Afghan refugees

[06] Cypriot FM briefed on Papandreou foreign visits by phone

[07] Two Greek terrorist organizations on State Department's list

[08] PM comments on country's future at foundation event

[09] PM meets Jacques Delors in Athens

[10] Ruling PASOK party secretary publishes review ahead of party congress

[11] Ecumenical Patriarch receives European Commission adviser

[12] Armenian armed forces chief to visit Greece

[13] Greek army contingent returning from FYROM

[14] Greek economic weekly review

[15] EU funds' absorption progressing rapidly

[16] Minister launches maritime industrial zone in the west

[17] Gov't on law focusing on mass media ownership, public works

[18] Greek, Turkish capital market bodies sign cooperation pact

[19] Japanese PM's economic adviser to speak in Athens

[20] Credit expansion accelerates in July

[21] Karamanlis calls for reduced tax rate in maritime shipping

[22] Greek, Yugoslav construction firms meet in Athens

[23] Greece examines wider economic cooperation in Mediterranean

[24] Portugal, Greece, UK have worst poverty rankings in EU

[25] Piraeus Bank, Agricultural Bank bid for ETBA bank

[26] Vivodi signs link to OTE for voice phone services

[27] Schroder: No rise seen on Athens bourse, inflation to hold steady

[28] Stocks drop, tracking world markets

[29] ATHOC head comments on role of expatriate Greeks

[30] DM lays foundation stone for new Air force Cadets Academy

[31] Event in New York in honor of film director Jules Dassin

[32] Book by defense minister presented at Thessaloniki event

[33] Businessman Vardis Vardinoyiannis hospitalized

[34] Two Afghan illegal immigrants caught in rowboat off Kos

[35] Two Romanians get five-year sentences for immigrant trafficking

[36] UN chief sends message on occasion of Cyprus' Independence Day

[37] Cypriot women hold silent vigil in solidarity for the families of the victims of the terrorist attacks in the US

[01] Greek FM addresses NATO conference in Bulgaria

SOFIA, 06/10/2001 (ANA - B. Borisov)

The declaration of the 10 leaders was issued at an international convention entitled "The contribution of new democracies in the Euro-Atlantic security", which was inaugurated here by NATO Secretary General George Robertson.

"We consider these attacks, as attacks against us all. As future members of the North Atlantic Alliance, we reiterate our commitment to plan our foreign policy and the security policy of our countries in coordination with the Washington Agreement, including the obligations that arise from article five of that agreement," the declaration stated.

"Our governments will totally support this war against terrorism. Our policy and other actions will be in the spirit of and will be led by the principles and solidarity to the United States and the member-states of NATO," the text also noted.

During his address, Greek Foreign Minister George Papandreou, who arrived in the Bulgarian capital to participate in the conference, said that "it is not the military force, as much as the common values of freedom, democracy, supremacy of law and the respect for human rights that prejudge the supremacy of the free world".

"We need a coalition of the common principles and common values. Beyond military means, there is a need for the exchange of information and coordinated efforts to combat the networks of organized crime, from which the terrorists are funded," he said.

"The new climate of common will and cooperation will affect positively the efforts to quench the hotpoints of tension and conflict in the Balkans and the Middle East and to contribute to the development of new relations between NATO and Russia," he concluded.

During his stay here, Papandreou had the opportunity to meet with his counterparts from Bulgaria Solomon Pasi, Turkey's Ismail Cem, the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia's (FYROM) Ilinka Mitreva, and Albania's Arta Dade.

The ministers of Greece, Bulgaria and Turkey decided to establish a joint advisory committee of experts on trilateral cooperation issues.

Following the conference, and his meetings with his counter-parts, Papandreou said it was an important meeting, because beyond discussions on the enlargement of NATO, there was also talk on recent developments.

"I believe that a series of principles and processes are being formulated, that will characterize this campaign against terrorism. These principles firstly regard a wider alliance, with the declaration of solidarity and condemnation of terrorist acts, as well as the cooperation among us for the European security," Papandreou said.

It is not a military alliance alone, but cooperation on a political and economic level, as well as to point to reasons of this phenomenon, which many a time is related to regional conflicts, such as the Middle East, the Balkans and other regions of the World, Papandreou said.

He added that these problems should be confronted as fast as possible, to the benefit of stability in these regions, so as not to allow fertile ground for those who resort to violence to resolve political problems.

"Finally, I believe that if something makes us different from the terrorists that is our values and principles. Values for a different world, which respects ones difference, ones religion, ones culture. That is the deeply held democratic attitude," Papandreou said.

Speaking to the press on his meetings with his counterparts from Bulgaria and Turkey, he said, "in the tripartite meeting Greece-Bulgaria-Turkey we reiterated our will to continue our regular contacts".

"We agreed that our next meeting will be in Turkey and the one after that in Greece," he added.

"We established an organizing committee, which will examine a series of issues we proposed: commercial and economic cooperation, cross-border cooperation, cooperation for the protection of the environment, as well as combating organized crime. We will analyze all these subjects and will promote them in our next meetings so as to significantly promote cooperation," Papandreou said.

He announced that Turkish Foreign Minister Ismail Cem will visit Athens on Nov. 8, as the two ministers decided to exchange one visit per year in each other's country.

He noted that he discussed Greek-Albanian relations with Albanian Foreign Minister Dade and Greece's relations with FYROM including the name issue, with FYROM's Mitreva.

[02] Barnier cites delays, irregularities in Greek land registry project

Athens, 06/10/2001 (ANA)

Speaking at a press conference in the Greek capital following a busy round of meetings with the country’s top leadership -- including talks with Greek PM Costas Simitis – Barnier cited what he called a “lack of transparency” in implementing the massive land registry project, something that has resulted in intense scrutiny by the Commission over the past few months.

In his comments, Barnier said he told Greek Town Planning, Public Works and Environment Costas Laliotis earlier in the day that only one-fourth of the initial estimate to register land has been met, namely, 8,440 sq. kilometers instead of 35,000 sq. kilometers – a target cited in the 1994-99 environment program.

The EU Commissioner responsible for regional policy also squarely pointed to the cost for registering the 8,440 square kilometers, which he charged reached the 276-million-euro mark from an initial estimate of 130 million euros.

The Commission’s administrative services are expected to submit a final evaluation to Commissioners over the amount of funding the Union wants back, following the conclusion of an ongoing investigation that will consider the Greek government’s answers and supplied information.

In precluding more EU funding to register the 8,440 sq. kilometers recorded so far, Barnier said additional money will have to come from national coffers, as the “continuation of the land registry project is a strategic challenge for town planning and the management of land in Greece.”

Greece is one of the very few countries in Europe without an operation land registry.

Instead, the French Commissioner proposed newer and stricter rules and fund management procedures if the entire land registry project is to acquire funding through the 3rd Community Support Framework. Along these lines, he said a separate operational plan should be implemented, one that will include regular evaluations of results by independent experts as well as strict fiscal control.

He stressed that any future EU funding will cover only new land registry contracts, with an emphasis on results and with a larger percentage of financing supplied by the Greek state.

Gov't: In later comments, government spokesman Dimitris Reppas reiterated that the latest international developments will not affect implementation of the 3rd CSF.

The spokesman was asked to comment on the meeting between Simitis and Barnier.

Reppas also noted that there is no ongoing prosecution related to the Ktimatologio S.A., the state-affiliated company managing the land registry project, while main opposition New Democracy cadres and other parties' cadres also serve on the company's board.

An Athens prosecutor called for an investigation into Ktimatologio S.A.'s practices this past week.

Karamanlis: Following his meeting with the EU Commissioner, main opposition New Democracy leader Costas Karamanlis said he briefed Barnier over ND's positions on the land registry matter, while criticizing the government and Laliotis personally for what he said was the project's undermining over "seven years through their acts and omissions."

"ND backed and still backs the National Land Registry. Our position is -- as I've requested in a letter to Mr. Barnier -- for the project to continue and finish as soon as possible with European funding".

Papazoi: Finally, after a meeting with Deputy FM Elizabeth Papazoi, Barnier told reporters that he has proposed a transitional period for Cohesion Fund financing targeting under-developed provinces in Greece and other southern EU states based an evolution of the 15 current member-states and not on the basis of an expanded Union.

[03] Town planning minister calls EU's decision on land registry redemptory

Athens, 06/10/2001 (ANA)

Commenting on the results of European Union Commissioner Michel Barnier's meetings in Athens on the future of the country's first comprehensive land registry, Laliotis said that a multi-month effort by his ministry to secure the future of the land registry was successful.

"All those specific politicians of (main opposition New Democracy) ND, which for twelve months undermined the program of the national land registry with scandal mongering and lies, were proven wrong," Laliotis said.

Reppas warns against 'jumping the gun' in the land register affair: Press and Media Minister Dimitris Reppas on Friday urged an independent MP "not to rush to interpret statements by European Commissioner Michel Barnier" on the land register.

Reppas quoted Barnier as saying that the EU Commission's controls on Community-funded projects were separate from judicial controls.

The minister was responding to questions regarding charges of malfeasance filed against the board of Ktimatologio S.A., the company in charge of the land register project, which is partly funded by the 3rd Community Support Framework.

Manos said that Barnier, currently on a visit to Athens, intended to demand the return of 10 to 20 billion drachmas given for the project, while he accused the government of trying to interfere with the course of justice.

The government has rejected the charges against the Ktimatologio board as unfounded, claiming that the case will collapse in the next stage of the proceedings, while noting that similar legal proceedings begun by the same public prosecutor in the past have come to nothing.

Coalition party leader criticizes handling of land register: Coalition of the Left and Progress leader Nikos Constantopoulos, speaking during his tour of the island of Samos on Friday, said that all that is happening in connection with the national land register is a blatant example of mismanagement, double talk and misrule.

"It is inconceivable for Greece to be the only country in Europe lacking a national land register. Without it we shall not go ahead with our country's development. (Public Works Minister) Mr. Laliotis and his ministry should secure funds for the completion of this project," he said.

"It is inconceivable, both institutionally and politically, for judicial cases to be delivered and for there to be reactions," he added.

Constantopoulos is visiting the area to attend a two-day conference on the development and social cohesion of the islands, as well as the 3rd Community Support Framework (CSF), due to take place on the Aegean island of Ikaria over the weekend.

[04] Spokesman says Turkish press report on terrorism gossip

Athens, 06/10/2001 (ANA)

Reppas said making such allegations would be dangerous for Greek-Turkish relations, adding that they create laughter and hilarity and that members of the country's political life do not expect certification or confirmation from Turkish newspapers to develop their political activities.

He said Foreign Minister George Papandreou will point out during his meeting with his Turkish counterpart Ismail Cem in Sofia that such reports are unacceptable and cannot be tolerated.

The Turkish government should take care that similar cases and absolutely unfounded attacks will be avoided, Reppas added.

He said that in his view a section of the Turkish establishment is faced with huge problems, while seeing that in essence the country is faced with a deadlock.

Reppas further said Turkey should take many steps still in the direction of respect for citizens' individual rights and should harmonies its institutional framework with what is in force in Greece and other countries.

In another development, the head of the Coalition of the Left and Progress party's international relations department Panos Trygazis communicated with the Turkish ambassador on Friday to protest the newspaper's report which, invoking a report by Turkish intelligence, repeats its allegations of support for terrorism by Greece, while involving the Coalition party's leader Nikos Constantopoulos and the party's Deputy Panayiotis Lafazanis.

According to the party's spokesman, Nikos Voutsis, the Turkish ambassador said it is merely a report by the newspaper and the fact it invokes a report by Turkish intelligence is the newspaper's responsibility.

A Coalition party delegation will visit the Turkish ambassador on Monday to make an official presentation of the party's views.

[05] Greek FM to undertake initiative for Afghan refugees

Athens, 06/10/2001 (ANA)

Papandreou will be making a relevant proposal at the EU's General Affairs Council due to convene in Luxembourg on Monday.

The initiative is also linked to the government's increased concern that Greece, being a European country with external borders, will be faced itself with huge problems due to massive influx of refugees who are already arriving on its beaches under appalling conditions.

Papandreou will point out to his counterparts that joint planning for receiving a number of refugees should be prepared soon and at the same time the EU should activate itself to provide humanitarian aid in the region with the purpose of limiting the exit.

[06] Cypriot FM briefed on Papandreou foreign visits by phone

NICOSIA, 06/10/2001 (ANA)

The Cypriot minister said that Papandreou had conveyed the views of all three countries regarding the Cyprus problem and Cyprus' accession to the European Union, as well as US plans for dealing with terrorism after the Sept. 11 strikes in New York and Washington.

With regard to the Cyprus problem, Kasoulides told reporters that, while it had not been shelved, it was not a top priority issue at the present time.

[07] Two Greek terrorist organizations on State Department's list

WASHINGTON 06/10/2001 (ANA - T. Ellis)

The list of terrorist organizations includes Al Qaida, Hamas, Hizballah, Al Jihad, Liberation Tigers of Tamil, Basque Fatherland and Liberty (ETA) and Gama'a al Islamiyya Islamic group.

"As we are starting a prolonged campaign against terrorism I hope this list will attract the attention of foreign governments all over the world regarding the activities of these organizations," U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell said in an announcement accompanying the publication of the list.

[08] PM comments on country's future at foundation event

Athens, 06/10/2001 (ANA)

Simitis and former European Commission president Jacques Delors were the main speakers at the event organized by the foundation created by the former European Commission president.

Simitis said Greece will continue its course on three axes on the years to come. Namely, the stability and development of the economy, the shaping of a new social state, which will be modern, viable, effective and fairer, and the full support for its position in the ranks of the European Union and its international environment.

He underlined that the target is to have the country participate constructively in the process of the EU's enlargement and in decisions to be taken for the future of Europe at the upcoming intergovernmental conference.

Among national priorities, Simitis ranked a just solution to the problem of Cyprus first, while also underlining the need for a contribution towards shaping the Balkans.

"The European course is of decisive importance for us. Our active participation in the European Union safeguards a powerful Greece in the regional and international system. It is a precondition for modernization, economic development and social cohesion," he said.

Simitis further said that in light of developments in the international community, a powerful Europe and rallying round the European perspective is more crucial than ever today.

Replying to questions by the foreign guests at the event, Simitis referred to issues concerning the European Union's integration and to matters of Greek interest, such as Cyprus' accession to the EU.

As to the issue of the EU's federal prospects, the Greek prime minister reiterated that it was necessary for there to be a format with flexibility so that those who wish to proceed, to be able to do so. However, Simitis said, the common start for all the countries should constitute the acquis communautaire as has been shaped.

On Cyprus' EU accession, Simitis said that the relevant decisions which were taken at the EU Helsinki summit remain unchanged and in any case commit all the EU candidate countries.

"We believe that all of Cyprus should join the EU, In any case, this prospect is believed by the majority of the Turkish Cypriots as shown by opinion polls being conducted. There should be no compromise or hesitation. Hesitation gives ground to blackmail," Simitis said.

[09] PM meets Jacques Delors in Athens

Athens, 06/10/2001 (ANA)

Delors is currently head of the Notre Europe Foundation.

[10] Ruling PASOK party secretary publishes review ahead of party congress

Athens, 06/10/2001 (ANA)

Ahead of the last meeting of the Central Committee on Saturday, before its renewal in party elections during the congress, Skandalidis stressed the major points of the review, which include the history and the present course of the party, the course of the party since the last congress three years ago and Greece's entry to the European Monetary Union.

Skandalidis also published statistics on the recent vote of 227,515, out of a total of 307,757, party members who elected 5,551 representatives of the 6,371 that will participate in the congress and in turn will elect the party's leadership.

The review also included the details of the party's success in elections that took place over the past three years.

[11] Ecumenical Patriarch receives European Commission adviser

ISTANBUL, 06/10/2001 (ANA - A. Kourkoulas)

The Patriarch also received the special adviser of NATO's secretary general on central and eastern European issues Chris Donnelly. Bishop Emmanuel, director of the Orthodox Church's office in the European Union, was present on both occasions.

[12] Armenian armed forces chief to visit Greece

Athens, 06/10/2001 (ANA)

According to the announcement, Lieutenant-Gen. Haroutiounian is visiting Greece at the invitation of Greek armed forces chief Gen. Manoussos Paragioudakis.

While in Athens, the Armenian armed forces chief will meet with the political and military leadership of the defense ministry and be briefed on issues of mutual military interest.

[13] Greek army contingent returning from FYROM

Athens, 06/10/2001 (ANA)

The Greek force is returning to the city of Polykastro, in the prefecture of Kilkis in northern Greece. The process will be completed on October 7.

[14] Greek economic weekly review

Athens, 06/10/2001 (ANA)

This scenario envisages growth rate of 4.0 percent in 2002, down from 4.6 percent initially estimated, and reduced budget revenues of 146.75 million euros and lower net primary spending.

National Economy and Finance Minister Yiannos Papantoniou said these changes were necessary to maintain a goal for a general government surplus of 1.3 percent of GDP next year. Papantoniou said he was optimistic that the international crisis would less affect the Greek economy, which in any case would achieve higher growth rates compared with the European average.

Development Minister Nikos Christodoulakis said there no cancellations in hotel reservations for 2002 and announced the formation of an emergency crisis management commission in tourism.

Meanwhile, commercial banks continued lowering their interest rates and preparing for a next round of cuts expected to be announced by the European Central Bank in the next few weeks, a move already discounted by market analysts. Papantoniou urged commercial banks to approve loans with better lending conditions both to businesses and to consumers.

Analysts, however, warn that any new decline in savings rates would undermine more savings accounts, which currently have real interest rates of -2.0 percent.

Greece's current accounts deficit fell by 314 million euros in the January-July period to 4.358 billion euros, while industrial production rose 2.8 percent in July, compared with the same month last year.

Mutual funds' returns remained on a free-fall course for one more month, with the average return of domestic equity funds at -33.21 percent this year, and domestic combined funds at -16.91 percent, reflecting a fall in the Athens Stock Exchange.

Credit expansion accelerated in July to 19.7 percent from 18.4 percent in June, reflecting a rise in credit card debt and mortgage loans.

The government unveiled a project to create a technological park at Spata, near the new Athens international airport, worth 50 billion drachmas. The park, aimed to promote high-technology business in Greece and the Balkan region, is expected to be ready by July 2004 ahead of the Athens 2004 Olympic Games.

[15] EU funds' absorption progressing rapidly

Athens, 06/10/2001 (ANA)

Speaking to reporters after a meeting with EU Commissioner Michel Barnier, Papantoniou said that by the end of October EU agencies would have received all necessary approvals to pay 1.7 trillion drachmas to Greece for money spend on Third CSF projects so far.

Papantoniou was reassuring that "there is absolutely no danger" of freezing or delaying inflows from EU funds if a world economic recession continued.

"The world recession has nothing to do with the function and execution of EU policies. These will continue in any case," he said.

Papantoniou reiterated that investments funded by the EU were additionally strengthening the Greek economy from the impact of a global crisis.

"I wish to note that the Commissioner expressed his great satisfaction over the course of things and the fact that Greece carries out very efficiently programs in a Third Community Support Framework. He also showed his surprise over the speed at which we completed our institutional framework and the rate at which we absorb EU funds," Papantoniou said.

He announced that with Mr. Barnier they would jointly visit some of the country's regional areas which they would absorb around 80 percent of EU funds.

[16] Minister launches maritime industrial zone in the west

Athens, 06/10/2001 (ANA)

The zone located in Platygiali in the prefecture of Aetoloakarnania will aid growth in the region and act as a gateway to Europe and to the east, Christodoulakis said.

Of the project's budget, 25 billion drachmas are to be contributed by the state, he added.

Carrying out the project is Astakos Terminal SA, a member of the Athens-quoted AEGEK engineering contractors' group.

Authorities hope that the zone will gradually evolve into one of the most modern commercial ports in Europe.

[17] Gov't on law focusing on mass media ownership, public works

Athens, 06/10/2001 (ANA)

In response to a tabled question on the controversial issue of “interlocking media interests” and “intertwined economic interests” – as forwarded by main opposition New Democracy deputy Prokopis Pavlopoulos – Mass Media and Press Minister Dimitris Reppas said the government wants to better define the legal notion of a “primary shareholder” in any new legislation.

Pavlopoulos’ question queried the government on its intent to table new legislation on restrictions between mass media owners and public works, provisions.

On his part, Reppas said the recently revived Constitution gives the lawmaker the ability to set a ceiling for individuals defined as “primary shareholders” in the mass media sector (newspapers, radio and television stations). Regarding the vexed issue of what the percentage ceiling will be, he said that certain related provisions begin at the 2.5-percent mark of a company's total share capital amount.

Pavlopoulos, meanwhile, called on the government ensure that “no contractors, or suppliers to the public sector are shareholders or mass media owners”.

[18] Greek, Turkish capital market bodies sign cooperation pact

ISTANBUL, 06/10/2001 (ANA/A.Kourkoulas)

"This bilateral agreement paves the way for cooperation among all market bodies in the two countries," the head of the Greek capital markets commission, Stavros Thomadakis, told the Athens News Agency.

Signing the cooperation deal for the Turkish capital market commission was Dogan Cansizlar, its president.

Accompanying Thomadakis to Istanbul were the president of the Athens Stock Exchange, Panayotis Alexakis; the managing director of the Central Share Depository, Loukas Zagas; and the head of the Association of Athens Stock Exchange Members, Panayotis Voillis.

[19] Japanese PM's economic adviser to speak in Athens

Athens, 06/10/2001 (ANA)

The lecture will be held at the Athens Chamber of Industry and Trade, arranged by the national economy ministry, the Japanese embassy, the Central Union of Chambers and the Greek-Japanese Chamber of Trade.

The event is part of Greece and Japan's Hermes program to boost economic ties between the two countries.

Itoh on Friday spoke in Thessaloniki on the Japanese economy, in a visit organized by the Thessaloniki Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Japanese embassy and the Macedonia University of Economics and Social Science.

[20] Credit expansion accelerates in July

Athens, 06/10/2001 (ANA)

The Bank of Greece said in a report that consumer loans totalled 2.228 trillion drachmas in the first seven months of the year for an annual growth rate of 50.4 percent in July, slightly lower from 52 percent in June.

The central bank said that credit card debt accounted for 50 per-cent of household debt, a very significant fact for commercial banks' profitability with credit card rates currently at 16 percent.

Mortgage loans totalled 4.6 trillion drachmas (13.5 billion euros), up 37.9 percent in July compared with the same month in 2000.

The report showed that credit expansion was particularly increase towards the public sector in July (up 15.3 percent from 12.7 percent in June).

[21] Karamanlis calls for reduced tax rate in maritime shipping

Athens, 06/10/2001 (ANA)

The ND leader made the comments at the 3rd International Maritime Conference in the Greek capital, organized by the “Economist” group.

Turning to the brewing crisis in the wake of the shocking Sept. 11 terrorist attacks in New York and Washington, Karamanlis noted that the international community’s reaction has generated many “positive surprises … as there is nothing more dangerous than penning up one’s reasoning in a vicious cycle of terror.”

In terms of the shipping sector, the ND leader called for a reduction in the local tax rate so that more Greek-owned vessels hoist the Greek flag, as well as the establishment of a new registry that will aid competitiveness.

[22] Greek, Yugoslav construction firms meet in Athens

Athens, 06/10/2001 (ANA)

The meeting is aimed to promote partnerships between construction firms in the two countries to jointly bid for projects in the Balkan region.

The meeting was inaugurated by Transport and Communications Minister Christos Verelis, Yugoslav Minister for Urban Planning and Construction Professor Dragoslav Sumarac and Yugoslavia's ambassador in Greece Dr. Dusan Batakovic.

The meeting focused on a project known as Pan-European Axis X which links the two countries and in general southeaster and central Europe. The link, however, was interrupted severely due to a series of conflicts in the previous decade and had affected its infrastructure.

Transport ministers from the countries using the Pan-European Axis X have pledged to restart its development in cooperation with the European Union.

"We have to move fast in the construction sector to achieve a full repairing and a total upgrading of the axis to achieve common characteristics," Verelis told the meeting.

[23] Greece examines wider economic cooperation in Mediterranean

Athens, 06/10/2001 (ANA)

National Economy Deputy Minister Yiannis Zaphiropoulos has sent a letter to its counterparts in 20 Mediterranean countries (Cyprus, Turkey, Lebanon, Libya, Syria, Egypt, Morocco, Algeria, Israel, Palestine Authority, Tunisia, France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Malta, Albania, Yugoslavia, Croatia and Slovenia) to invite them in Greece late November 2001.

The meeting will help in exchanging views about ways to expand economic cooperation in the area.

In his letter, Zaphiropoulos said that Greece "being a Mediterranean country is particularly interested for the situation and developments in the area."

Zaphiropoulos noted that it was necessary to discuss international economic developments in the wake of the tragic events in the United States and ahead of a scheduled ministerial meeting of the World Trade Organization in Qatar.

"The common promotion of the area's tourist product, and the issues of information, energy and transport networks, and the economic and social development of countries outside the EU could become significant cooperation basis for countries in the region," Zaphiropoulos said in the letter.

[24] Portugal, Greece, UK have worst poverty rankings in EU

BRUSSELS, 06/10/2001 (ANA/B.Demiris)

In Greece and the UK, 22 percent of the population lives on the poverty line, and 23 percent in Portugal, the Commission's report said.

The calculation was based on the percentage of the population with an income of less than 60 percent of the average national income.

In the 15-nation bloc, more than 60 million people, or 18 percent of the population, live on the poverty line, with half of the total living in long-term poverty, the report said.

Per capita spending on social welfare in Greece was among the lowest at 3,100 purchasing power units against an EU average of 5,500 units. Spending on social protection in the country represented 24 percent of gross domestic product, the Commission said.

It added that despite entry into the eurozone this year and continuing economic progress, Greece continued to show a low percentage of employment and high jobless rate.

[25] Piraeus Bank, Agricultural Bank bid for ETBA bank

Athens, 06/10/2001 (ANA)

The two banks, which sent their bids to JP Morgan, the government's consultant in the sale, are bidding for a major equity stake in the bank, the sources said.

JP Morgan is to submit its recommendation on the two offers to the government on October 11.

Agricultural Bank already holds 10 percent of ETBA bank.

[26] Vivodi signs link to OTE for voice phone services

Athens, 06/10/2001 (ANA)

Vivodi will initially link its network to OTE's in 11 areas around Greece. In 2002, the link will become local, the state-run telecom said in a statement.

OTE, which formerly held a monopoly in voice connections, has signed similar pacts with Cosmoline, Starcom, Teledome, Europrom, Quest Wireless, Forthnet and Lannet Communications.

[27] Schroder: No rise seen on Athens bourse, inflation to hold steady

Athens, 06/10/2001 (ANA)

A weekly market report by SSSB analyst Miranda Xafa reaffirmed earlier forecasts she had made that slim trade showed a lack of dynamism in the market.

Xafa has said in the past that a rise was difficult at least until the second half the month due to political uncertainty before a congress of the ruling PASOK party on October 11-14.

"Low turnover shows that there is not enough liquidity to allow a steady rising trend," the latest report said.

Terrorist attacks in the US on September 11 brought down world markets, in turn hurting the Greek market.

Prime Minister Costas Simitis had brought the party congress forward to the middle of October from spring 2002, when it was originally due to be held.

In addition, Xafa forecast on Friday that Greek inflation in September would hold steady at 3.8 percent, or post a slight decline. The government will release September's data on Tuesday.

SSSB is a member of Citigroup, the world's largest financial and banking corporation.

[28] Stocks drop, tracking world markets

Athens, 06/10/2001 (ANA)

The general share index shed 0.99 percent to end at 2,249.59 points. Turnover was lower at 122.2 million euros.

The FTSE/ASE-20 index for blue chip and heavily traded stocks ended 0.64 percent down; the FTSE/ASE-40 for medium capitalization paper 1.26 percent lower; and the FTSE/ASE-80 for small cap equities 2.11 percent down.

Declines led advances at 299 to 44 with 18 issues remaining unchanged.

The most heavily traded shares were Hellenic Telecommunications Organization, National Bank of Greece, ETBAbank, Alpha Bank, and Minoan Lines.

Equity futures end lower again: Equity futures on the Athens Derivatives Exchange on Friday finished at a lower discount, roughly tracking a drop in the main market.

At the same time, players in derivatives had remained pessimistic this week, even when the main market rose, traders said.

The underlying FTSE/ASE-20 index for heavily traded stocks and blue chips shed 0.64 percent; and the underlying FTSE/ASE-40 for medium capitalization stocks ended 1.26 percent down.

Futures on the FTSE/ASE-20 showed a discount of up to 2.0 percent; and on the FTSE/ASE-40 of 2.0 percent to 2.5 percent, the traders said. Changing hands were 6,338 contracts.

Bond prices rise in heavy, bullish trade: Bond prices in the domestic secondary market on Friday finished higher in heavy, bullish trade focusing on 10-year paper.

The Greek benchmark 10-year bond showed a yield of 5.10 percent, and the yield spread over German bunds was 45 basis points.

Turnover through the central bank's electronic system totalled 1.2 billion euros.

Buy orders accounted for the bulk of turnover.

[29] ATHOC head comments on role of expatriate Greeks

Athens, 06/10/2001 (ANA)

The ATHOC chief referred to the issue on Friday during a press conference in the Greek capital, which was also attended by Deputy Foreign Minister Grigoris Niotis, whose portfolio includes relations with overseas Greeks.

“We fully back every effort to promote our relations with expatriate Greeks. We must give them the opportunity to participate in the effort for 2004; for them to feel proud as Greeks, and for them to help us, particularly in the field of volunteerism,” Angelopoulos-Daskalaki.

[30] DM lays foundation stone for new Air force Cadets Academy

Athens, 06/10/2001 (ANA)

Tsohatzopoulos said that through the creation of the new complex, the cadets will be better trained and qualified to meet the demands of the modern era.

He also termed as a very positive development the fact that the Armed Forces are also proceeding with the realities of the new era through the major changes in technology.

The project will cost 10.5 billion drachmas and is set to be completed in 36 months time.

[31] Event in New York in honor of film director Jules Dassin

WASHINGTON 06/10/2001 (ANA - M. Georgiadou)

The director and president of the Melina Mercouri Foundation was presented by the director of the New York Press Office, Dimitris Gemelos, who called for a minute's silence in memory of the victims of the terrorist attacks in the US on September 11.

Referring to the Dassin-Mercouri couple's artistic and national contribution, Gemelos noted that "Jules and Melina have influenced Greece in many ways, not just through their artistic genius but through their personal struggle for freedom, democracy and justice on an international scale."

On his part, Dassin thanked the organizers of the film festival and for Thursday's event, and referred, among other things, to the struggle of the Melina Mercouri Foundation for the return of the Parthenon Marbles to Greece and their housing to the Acropolis new museum.

[32] Book by defense minister presented at Thessaloniki event

Athens, 06/10/2001 (ANA)

During the presentation of his book, Tsohatzopoulos said that Greece confronted with cool-headedness the world crisis following the terrorist attack in the United States on September 11.

"Greece is shielded both on the economic level as well as in the defense and security sector and feels quite strong," Tsohatzopoulos said, noting, however, that the repercussions of this crisis have not yet been manifested.

Present at the event were, among others, Macedonia and Thrace Minister George Paschalidis and deputies from the ruling PASOK, the main opposition New Democracy and the Coalition of the Left and Progress parties.

[33] Businessman Vardis Vardinoyiannis hospitalized

Athens, 06/10/2001 (ANA)

Doctors believe there is no reason for concern, since after tests were made the patient's state is developing smoothly.

The medical report added that Vardinoyiannis will stay in hospital for treatment for a few more days.

[34] Two Afghan illegal immigrants caught in rowboat off Kos

Athens, 06/10/2001 (ANA)

Both men will be led before the Kos public prosecutor.

[35] Two Romanians get five-year sentences for immigrant trafficking

Athens, 06/10/2001 (ANA)

Alain Liviu Barbu and Anton Marcel Dobos were the crew of the United States-flagged sailing yacht 'Blue Bird Hornet,' which was intercepted by authorities in the southern Peloponnesian town of Methana on Wednesday with 89 illegal immigrants on board.

The public prosecutor also gave a five-year sentence to Greek driver Panagiotis Karalis, who was caught at the wheel of a coach with false number plates as he waited to collect the immigrants on shore.

The illegal immigrants – 80 men, six women and three children -- hailed from Iraq, Iran and Afghanistan, the coast guard report said.

[36] UN chief sends message on occasion of Cyprus' Independence Day

NICOSIA, 06/10/2001 (CNA/ANA)

In his message, Annan referred to the President's pledge at last year's Millennium summit to promote democracy and the rule of law, protect children and free people from the scourge of war and abject poverty and make the UN more effective as an instrument for pursuing noble objectives.

"Those pledges do indeed inspire tremendous hope. As we work together to translate them into action, we are engaged on a mission that binds together the entire international community," Annan said.

"It is heartening to know that the UN can count on the continued leadership, commitment and support of Cyprus," the Secretary General added.

He extended his "warmest congratulations and best wishes on the occasion of the Independence Day" on 1 October.

President Clerides has received scores of congratulatory messages from various world leaders, including the presidents of Italy, Yugoslavia, Peru, Switzerland, Israel, Argentina, Kenya, the Seychelles, the Palestinian Authority as well as the Syrian premier, the kings of Spain and Jordan.

[37] Cypriot women hold silent vigil in solidarity for the families of the victims of the terrorist attacks in the US

NICOSIA 06/10/2001 (CNA/ANA)

"A candle and a flower" was the name women gave their protest against violence and terrorism, which began with a church service, officiated by the primate of the Church of Cyprus Archbishop Chrysostomos.

Present at Friday's vigil were First Lady Irini Clerides, deputies, wives and relatives of missing persons since the 1974 Turkish invasion of Cyprus and many other Cypriot women.

The women called for peace and justice for the entire world and reminded the international community that Cyprus continues to suffer as a result of the division and Turkey's occupation of its northern areas.

"We condemn the recent terrorist attack against thousands of innocent people in the US, this was an attack not only against America but also against the whole of humanity," a declaration, adopted by the women on Friday, said.

It noted that Cypriot women feel and understand fully the drama of the families of thousands of dead and missing "as we have been living through the same experience since the 1974 Turkish invasion."

"We invite all world leaders to stand united and work to secure peace and justice for everyone," it added.

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