Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English, 02-05-30

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

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

CONTENTS

[01] Convergence with EU an economic, social challenge, premier tells Parliament

[02] PM Simitis does not fear 'hot incident' with Turkey

[03] PM to discuss EU force issues with foreign and defense ministers on Friday

[04] Defense minister says Crete is a 'strategic link' for Cyprus' defense

[05] Protopapas: Athens denies US request to conduct ship inspections in Aegean

[06] Greek FM and Israeli ambassador discuss Mideast developments

[07] Greek deputy transport minister in London to study public transport systems

[08] Greece's press ministry unveils new operational plan

[09] Gov't plans to reduce military service for heads of households

[10] Parliament president cites continuous respect for human rights

[11] Greece's fifth among EU members in violations of community code

[12] Coalition tables question over corruption in prison system

[13] Greek journalists from around the world received by Parliament president

[14] Former PM Mitsotakis successfully undergoes arterial aneurysm surgery

[15] Greek edition of Foreign Policy magazine presented

[16] Public sector strike causes flight cancellations, fracas at port

[17] Industrial sewage treatment plant inaugurated

[18] Cyprus Airways to launch Greek airline in 2003

[19] Gov't finalizes decree for new private airports

[20] SEC' executive address ASE seminar

[21] ASE steady around 2,300 level on Wednesday

[22] Athens 2004 OA Main Press Center construction underway

[23] Chinese weather bureau delegation visits Athens 2004 offices

[24] Eurobarometer: Greeks believe Greece wields least amount of influence in EU

[25] Greek & foreign Eurodeputies call for return of Parthenon Marbles to Greece

[26] Some 200,000 people in Greece live by exploiting 20,000 women

[27] German national killed in argument

[28] Turkey fully supports co-hosting with Greece the Euro 2008 Championship

[29] UN top envoy plays more active role at direct talks, spokesman says

[30] Cyprus protests arrival of Turkish research vessel

[31] Government welcomes remarks by EU senior official

[32] Annemie Neyts: Cyprus' perspective to join EU comes nearer

[33] Cypriot parties urge leaders to 'work constructively' for settlement

[01] Convergence with EU an economic, social challenge, premier tells Parliament

Athens, 30/05/2002 (ANA)

Speaking in an off the agenda discussion on the country's economy, requested by main opposition New Democracy (ND) party leader Costas Karamanlis, Simitis stressed that the convergence ''is an economic, social, national, historic and political challenge which creates the guarantee for a better tomorrow for all the people and all workers''.

He added that this aim was a difficult one and the road ahead was expected to be long, noting that some steps were already taken over the past few years.

Speaking of the government's successes over the past few years, he referred to the country's more than double economic growth rates compared to the EU average, the drop in unemployment by 1.5 per cent, the increase in salaries and pensions by 5 to 7 per cent and that Greece was the leader in foreign investments in Balkan countries.

He also said that with the new legislation regulating state employee hirings, the new institutions for transparency and new technologies a more effective state is being established that will be closer to the needs of citizens, adding that the educational system was improving at a speedy rate and concluded by noting that with the government's policy the country was advancing toward the EU.

Simitis stressed that with the policies of the government the country was being shielded against negative international developments and accused ND of lacking a policy program.

He added that ND's reactions were those of petty politics, attempting to force the country toward divergence and backtracking.

The premier called ND's criticism a ''divisive and corrupt hymn of disaster mongering'', and spoke of a ''divisive and barren logic of ND that lacks values and shows thirst for offices which dynamites consensus''.

He noted that ND attempted to embarrass the country by creating a false image of crisis and stressed that it was barren criticism lacking a proposal for the future and which uses lies and slander as its outlet.

Speaking of the government's aims in the first decade of the new century, he said Cyprus' accession to the EU, the promotion of the Helsinki decisions' implementation, the establishment of the Euroforce in cooperation with NATO and economic convergence with the rest of the EU member-states topped the agenda.

ND leader launches stinging attack against government's economic policy: Main opposition New Democracy party leader Costas Karamanlis on Wednesday accused the government of having a "regime mentality" and Prime Minister Costas Simitis of living in a fictitious world and being distant from reality.

Speaking in Parliament during an off-the-agenda debate on the economy, Karamanlis referred to economic indicators, using the prime minister's admission that indeed Greece is last in Europe in certain indicators.

''If this is the case, some people here should take a better look at themselves in the mirror,'' Karamanlis said.

He added that ''on page 207 of the Bank of Greece's report, it is revealed that the real deficit has swelled to 4.5 percent of GDP'' and that the trade balance is showing a disappointing picture with Greece exporting ''fewer products and services than Luxembourg which has 400,000 inhabitants.''

On the question of the social security issue, Karamanlis accused Simitis of ''hypocrisy'' since in his address he referred with disdain to ND's reformist effort during the 1990-1993 period without, however, abolishing these laws and without enacting the social security system's tripartite funding.

He added that the government's new proposal constitutes, in essence, ''the implementation of ND's laws adding some small benefits and a burdening of generations to come.''

Karamanlis also referred to a recent interview by Defense Minister Yiannos Papantoniou in which, as he said, the defense minister admitted excessions running into hundreds of billions in procurements by his ministry.

Regarding public works, Karamanlis said ''never has a government managed so many resources to offer so little'' and said characteristic of this is substandard work and the squandering of public funds.

Continuing his criticism, Karamanlis said the ''fiasco'' and ''plight'' of Olympic Airways, the country's national carrier, constitutes ''the government's image'', adding that the handling of the ''Softex'' issue also proves to be a ''fiasco.''

Karamanlis also commented on the European army issue, saying that Simitis ''went to the U.S. unprepared'' and that ''at a time when ND was backing the government, you were showering abuse and dividing.''

KKE, Coalition accuse gov't of electioneering and illusions: Communist Party of Greece (KKE) secretary general Aleka Papariga on Wednesday accused Prime Minister Costas Simitis and main opposition New Democracy party leader Costas Karamanlis of making election campaign addresses in light of national elections during the off-the-agenda Parliamentary debate on the economy.

Papariga said Simitis and Karamanlis applied themselves to competing on who is the best helmsman for conservative policy, on which is the best demagoguery and who can be better in selling the wealth of the working people.

She said the presentation of the course of the economy by the prime minister was fragmental and made the assessment that whatever growth achieved has a class character which while leading to high profits at the same time led to a fall in the standard of living of the people.

Papariga also referred to the recent agreement reached between NATO and Russia, saying that as a result Russia's leadership joined the game of the struggle against ''terrorism'' which in essence is a struggle against peoples.

Coalition of the Left and Progress (Synaspismos) party leader Nikos Constantopoulos spoke in his address of complacency in the prime minister's speech constituting a ''typical example of the illusions'' of a government which is functioning as an establishment.

''You are speaking of leaps at a time when the lower strata of society have become tired of your one-way path and cannot bear the unfair burdens of continuous fiscal inequality,'' he said.

However, Constantopoulos found the discussion useful since it ''highlighted the central problem of the identification of the two major parties' policies and the failure to shape an alternative solution in the framework of bipartisan rule.''

Constantopoulos said that no matter how much they try Simitis and Karamanlis cannot create an atmosphere of tension and polarization because their differences are at the level of who is the best administrator.

Economy minister accuses main opposition of not facing reality: Economy and Finance Minister Nikos Christodoulakis on Wednesday appealed to the Greek political parties to stop involving the European Union and EU agencies in their disputes concerning the economy.

Speaking in parliament on Wednesday evening, Christodoulakis criticized main opposition New Democracy (ND), stating that ''the problem of the economy is not a political one, as claimed by (ND leader) Costas Karamanlis, but the problem of ND's policy is the economy itself.'' He charged that the ND ''has systematically chosen to ignore reality, denouncing not economic policy but the economy itself.''

The economy minister said the ND was systematically avoiding to make specific proposals on important matters, either because it had no positions, or because of internal differences among the party's various trends.

Christodoulakis added that the government was not opting for a bad solution to the social insurance issue at the expense of the working people.

[02] PM Simitis does not fear 'hot incident' with Turkey

Athens, 30/05/2002 (ANA)

Simitis, speaking to reporters after a meeting with President of the Republic Costis Stephanopoulos, said that the Ankara text on the European rapid reaction force must change and, asked if he feared a hot incident would arise with Turkey, replied: "No, I do not fear (such an eventuality)".

The two men discussed issues of domestic and foreign policy, and the premier also briefed the President on his recent round of contacts with the political party leaders, whom he said shared a common desire for confrontation of the national issues and handling of the possible dangers.

Simitis further briefed the President on his contacts with the EU and NATO leaders on issues concerning the European rapid reaction force and NATO enlargement, adding that the contacts and discussions on the European force were continuing.

The premier opined that Russia's objections to NATO enlargement had been overcome, and described the latest NATO conference as being of great interest.

He said a new era was beginning in NATO-Russia and US-Russia relations, but added that the cooperation should become more specific. He further expressed belief that the new relationship with Russia would help in the Middle East and Balkan affairs.

Gov't on Greek-Turkish relations: The government dealt with a variety of questions on Wednesday regarding Greek-Turkish relations, with the government spokesman again outlining Athens’ standing positions.

“We never said we have assured peace with Turkey forever. What we did say was that bilateral relations create a framework that upgrades Greece’s position,” spokesman Christos Proto-papas said.

Regarding the recent speculation amongst local media over the possibility of an “incident” with Turkey in the coming period – speculation apparently linked to Cyprus’ very bright prospects for EU accession and Athens’ ongoing refusal to accept the so-called “Ankara Text” governing the “Euro-Army's” scope – the government spokesman merely referred to the premier’s statements, where the latter said he was not concerned.

He also said the government considers that a strategy of avoiding tension was in Athens’ best interests.

Finally, in reference to a brief conversation Greek Prime Minister Costas Simitis had with Turkish President Ahmet Sezer in Rome on Tuesday on the sidelines of a NATO summit, the spokesman said Turkey’s European course was discussed.

New round of Greek-Turkish exploratory talks to begin on Monday in Athens: The new round of exploratory talks between Greece and Turkey will take place in Athens on Monday, Greek foreign ministry spokesman Panos Beglitis said on Wednesday.

Greece will be represented by General Director of Political Affairs Ambassador Anastasios Skopelitis and Turkey by its foreign ministry's General Director Ambassador Ziyial.

[03] PM to discuss EU force issues with foreign and defense ministers on Friday

Athens, 30/05/2002 (ANA)

This was announced on Wednesday by government spokesman Christos Protopapas, who also announced a meeting at 10:00 on Friday between the prime minister and Transport Minister Christos Verelis.

[04] Defense minister says Crete is a 'strategic link' for Cyprus' defense

Athens, 30/05/2002 (ANA)

The defense minister also referred to the potential role that the Souda Bay base might play during times of crisis and times of peace, especially after the September 11 terror attacks in the United States.

''The increase in the number of foreign ships arriving at Souda is correlated to the events of September 11 and the climate that exists to oppose international terrorism. Greece is actively participating in this battle because international terrorism is a threat to all of us,'' he said.

Papantoniou predicted that this would not continue indefinitely, however.

''I hope that the fight against international terrorism will have a boundary in time, after which these arrivals [of foreign ships] will drop off,'' he added.

Finally, Papantoniou referred to changes being made within the Greek armed forces, saying that they were been rapidly modernized. Greece was spending roughly 5 per cent of its GDP on the armed forces, he reported, which was triple the proportion spent by other European countries and double what Greece was spending 10 years ago.

The new F-16 fighter planes bought by the government to replace the ageing fleet of A7 Corsairs were part of this modernization drive, he added.

[05] Protopapas: Athens denies US request to conduct ship inspections in Aegean

Athens, 30/05/2002 (ANA)

He said the request had been considered by the foreign ministry but rejected because it contravened the dictates of the Constitution and national legislation.

The US request concerned searches of ships suspected of being involved in terrorist acts.

The spokesman said that Greece had pledged to contribute to the fight against terrorism and would conduct inspections of ships in its territorial waters whenever it considered this necessary or whenever it was alerted to the need for such an inspection.

[06] Greek FM and Israeli ambassador discuss Mideast developments

Athens, 30/05/2002 (ANA)

Neither of the two men made statements after the meeting.

[07] Greek deputy transport minister in London to study public transport systems

LONDON 30/05/2002 (ANA - L. Tsirigotakis)

He told reporters he had asked to see the most modern transport systems in the UK, especially surface transport systems and light railway, and had visited two specific areas, the Docklands and Croydon in south London, which have a modern tram system.

Later on Wednesday, Vougias will also visit the northern English city of Manchester, which is currently making preparations to host the Commonwealth Games in June.

In addition to viewing public transport infrastructure, Vougias held meetings with UK exhibition organizers while in London, in order to benefit from British experience in the event that Thessaloniki won the EXPO trade fair in 2007 or 2008.

Should the city manage to get the organization of this exhibition, Vougias said, there would be a drive to complete necessary infrastructure in the city, similar to that which occurred in Athens when it became host-city for the 2004 Olympics.

Turning to his plans to run for mayor in Thessaloniki, Vougias admitted that his main rival, current Thessaloniki mayor Vassilis Papageorgopoulos, had a head start but said this was not so great that it was impossible to overturn.

''I am certain there will be a second round,'' he stressed.

He announced that he would name the first 20 municipal candidates joining his ticket on June 20 and said these would mostly be young people that were known to the people of the Thessaloniki.

Vougias added that he would not resort to using celebrities or sports stars, since this was not strategy that would work in the city.

Finally, he reiterated that he would resign his ministerial post toward the end of June, after he had wrapped up loose ends at the ministry and could concentrate on his pre-election race.

[08] Greece's press ministry unveils new operational plan

Athens, 30/05/2002 (ANA)

The plan, presented during a seminar at the Zappeion Hall in Athens, will be funded by the EU up to 75 percent, with the remaining 25 percent to be funded by national funds in the framework of a wider program called "Information Society."

Press Minister Christos Protopapas, addressing the seminar, referred to the significance of these information projects aimed at developing a more favorable environment to offer new and updated services to the citizens and to mass media, to enhance transparency in the public sector and to prepare the state for the Athens 2004 Olympic Games.

The Operational Plan envisages three major projects: the first, budgeted at 3.47 million euros, includes works to upgrade the ministry's integrated information system and the Press Room and works to upgrade the information infrastructure of the Athens News Agency to become a multimedia news agency.

The second project, worth 7.23 million euros, envisages works in offering on line services to the media with the creation of an Audiovisual Material Management Center and the third project, envisages works for more efficient information of citizens (690,000 euros).

[09] Gov't plans to reduce military service for heads of households

Athens, 30/05/2002 (ANA)

Apostolidis said a ministerial decree was being prepared that would reduce the national service for heads of households by three months as of January 2003, with plans for a further reduction to six months later on.

[10] Parliament president cites continuous respect for human rights

Athens, 30/05/2002 (ANA)

Dafermos handed over to Kaklamanis a report on its work in 2001. ''Human rights constitute the basic content of democracy. Particularly today when the global threat of terrorism is being used for the shaping and implementation of policies against human rights,'' Kaklamanis said.

He added that ''the case of terrorism is probably considered by some as being a very good opportunity for restricting democratic institutions and individual freedoms and rights.''

Dafermos underlined the difficulties being faced by the Personal Data Protection Authority in its controlling work, particularly in cases of human rights infringements and the violation of private life by individuals.

[11] Greece's fifth among EU members in violations of community code

BRUSSELS 30/05/2002 (ANA - G. Zitouniati)

According to a press release issued by ND on Wednesday, Prodi, in response to a question tabled by ND Eurodeputy Kostis Hatzidakis, said that by the end of 2001 some 295 charges were filed against Greece, compared to 288 in 2000 and 259 in 1999.

Greece is at the fifth place on the list of member-states' number of violations.

[12] Coalition tables question over corruption in prison system

Athens, 30/05/2002 (ANA)

Party leader Nikos Constantopoulos tabled the question following the escape of American inmate Peter Sedom from the high-security prison in Korydallos, with the suspected assistance of a prison's psychiatrist.

Constantopoulos asked the minister to answer on the reform of procedures for transporting prisoners, on the large variety of criminals held in Korydallos, why prison staff had been allowed to become increasingly involved with political parties, and on the outcome of disciplinary proceedings in flagrant cases of murder or suspect prisoner transfers, as well as outstanding cases for corruption or graft within the prison system.

Two MPs for main opposition New Democracy, meanwhile, asked to be given copies of means and assets statements submitted by Korydallos prison staff.

[13] Greek journalists from around the world received by Parliament president

Athens, 30/05/2002 (ANA)

Kaklamanis presented the image of modern Greece and the challenges the country faces in this new era.

The Parliament's president called on them to record Greek reality with an objective manner, ''since modern Greece has overcome its phobias and complexes of the past and is looking for constructive criticism''.

Kaklamanis spoke to them about Greece's national issues focusing on the Cyprus problem and Turkey's expansionist policy in the Aegean.

Earlier in the day the journalists were received by President of the Republic Kostis Stephanopoulos.

The 48 journalists come from 10 European countries, three Latin American countries, the U.S., Hong Kong, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.

[14] Former PM Mitsotakis successfully undergoes arterial aneurysm surgery

Athens, 30/05/2002 (ANA)

A newly developed procedure was used by the hospital's medical staff on the former premier and main opposition New Democracy (ND) honorary president, which requires only local anesthesia, while it is not even called ''surgery'', but ''procedure''.

Mitsotakis will remain in the hospital two to three days and he will return to Athens by the middle of next week, if his post-op recovery is as expected.

His daughter Dora Bakoyianni, an ND deputy and Athens mayoral hopeful, was at his side and is expected to return to Athens on Sunday.

[15] Greek edition of Foreign Policy magazine presented

Athens, 30/05/2002 (ANA)

The magazine is published in the U.S. since 1970 and today is published in five languages (English, Italian, Spanish, Turkish and Greek), covering 128 countries.

The May-June edition includes an interview with Foreign Minister George Papandreou.

[16] Public sector strike causes flight cancellations, fracas at port

Athens, 30/05/2002 (ANA)

The seamen’s strike, in particular, had been ruled illegal by a Piraeus first instance court, apparently leading to a fracas off four Aegean island-bound ferries when members of two Communist Party of Greece (KKE)-affiliated labor groups clashed with the coast guard’s riot unit. Five individuals were arrested, according to reports.

Public schools, municipalities, ministries and tax offices mainly bore the brunt of the strike – although certain public sector agencies in the greater Athens area were open -- while state-run health care facilities reportedly operated with emergency staff. The country’s largest civil servants’ union called the strike in protest of projected social security reforms that the government wants implemented.

Meanwhile, state-run Olympic Airways said 24 domestic flights had been cancelled, while others were delayed.

ADEDY is demanding wage increases, pensions at 80 percent of a pensioner’s final salary following 35 years of work, as well as more benefits for women and mothers in the public sector.

Labor organizers at an Athens rally pointed to a 75-percent participation figure, whereas in Thessaloniki, ADEDY officials claimed that participation in the strike reached the 65-percent mark in the country’s second largest city, although turnout at a central rally was judged as below expectations.

Meanwhile, Communist Party of Greece (KKE) general secretary Aleka Papariga called authorities’ reaction to the Piraeus strikers as one reserved only for “terrorists”, while she warned that the “government once again showed how determined it is to pass its measures no matter what the costs.”

The Coalition of the Left and Progress (Synaspismos), in a press release, condemned what it called the “strong-armed tactics and violence” used by coast guard officers against striking seamen.

Gov’t reaction: In later statements, the government spokesman reiterated that the seamen’s strike has been ruled illegal by a relevant court, “thus, when violence was used to prevent the sailing of vessels, there was, of course, justifiable resistance”.

Spokesman Christos Protopapas also charged that three out of the five men arrested in the incident were not even seamen.

On his part, Merchant Marine Minister George Anomeritis dismissed the strike’s impact at the port, stressing that ferryboats left on time, “as no Greek sailor or crewmember was on strike. Some others that wanted to cancel the routes were dealt with, following orders by the prosecutor, who already knew that the 24-hour strike had been ruled illegal.”

Anomeritis also referred to five arrested individuals, including the president of the PEMEN labor group, the same organization’s general secretary, as well as a university lecturer and two students.

[17] Industrial sewage treatment plant inaugurated

Athens, 30/05/2002 (ANA)

The plant, which cost 13.5 billion euros to build, will produce alternative combustible material for industrial use and belongs to the POLYECO company.

The company's President Yiannis Polychronopoulos said many problems of industry and shipping will be resolved with the plant in the safest and most beneficial way.

He said that sewage received by the plant will be checked beforehand and radioactive materials, pesticides, dioxins and contagious hospital sewage will not be accepted, as well as substances which cannot become industrial fuel.

[18] Cyprus Airways to launch Greek airline in 2003

NICOSIA 30/05/2002 (ANA)

The parent company's chairman, Haris Loizides, said on Wednesday that the new firm to be named Hellas Jet would have its headquarters at the Eleftherios Venizelos international airport near Athens.

Hellas Jet would focus on low prices and punctuality of flights, Loizides said.

It would attain low operating costs through alliances in Greece and other countries in Europe, he added.

[19] Gov't finalizes decree for new private airports

Athens, 30/05/2002 (ANA)

The legislation foresees, among others, licensing procedures for potential airport operators, including the level of necessary investment.

The decree has been forwarded to the president of the republic for his signature.

[20] SEC' executive address ASE seminar

Athens, 30/05/2002 (ANA)

Mr. Hunt said that the conflict of interest in the dual activities of accounting and consulting services was highlighted by the fact that accounting services' fees were smaller compared with their consulting services' fees.

"US regulatory authorities, in cooperation with the Senate, are seeking ways and legislative solutions to deal with this problem," Mr. Hunt said.

He noted that these ways were mainly focused on strengthening market supervision and sanctions, better cooperation between federal and local regulatory authorities and strengthening existing legislation with measures to divide accounting and consulting activities in the US.

Mr. Hunt also referred to the role of market analysts and to cases of market abuse. "To deal with these problems US authorities seek to enhance transparency in analysts' transactions and in the way the publish their reports to the public," he noted.

The event was addressed by Capital Markets' Commission's president, professor Stavros Thomadakis.

[21] ASE steady around 2,300 level on Wednesday

Athens, 30/05/2002 (ANA)

The index ended 0.18 percent lower at 2,298.79 points in improved turnover of 135.7 million euros.

Analysts said the market is locked in tight ranges, moving between 2,298 and 2,310 points.

The Construction and Textile sectors scored the biggest percentage gains (2.54 percent and 0.72 percent, respectively), while the Telecommunications and Metals sectors suffered the heaviest losses (1.0 percent and 0.77 percent).

The FTSE/ASE 20 index for blue chip and heavy traded stocks ended 0.12 percent lower, the FTSE/ASE MID 40 index ended 0.51 percent higher and the FTSE/ASE SmallCap 80 index rose 0.27 percent.

Broadly, decliners led advancers by 154 to 150 with another 54 issues unchanged.

The most heavily traded shares in value were Klonatex (p), Coca Cola HBC, Commercial Bank of Greece.

Equity index futures down: Equity index futures on the Athens Derivatives Exchange on Wednesday ended lower across the board, trading at a discount of 0.50 percent to 80 percent.

Turnover was 35.6 million euros.

The underlying FTSE/ASE-20 index for heavily traded stocks and blue chips shed 0.12 percent; and the underlying FTSE/ASE-40 for medium capitalization stocks rose 0.51 percent.

Bond prices up in brisk trade: Bond prices in the domestic secondary market on Wednesday finished higher in active trade focusing on five-year paper.

The Greek benchmark 10-year bond showed a yield of 5.48 percent, and the spread over the corresponding German bund was 29 basis points.

Turnover through the central bank's electronic system was 2.3 billion euros.

Buy orders accounted for over half of trade.

[22] Athens 2004 OA Main Press Center construction underway

Athens, 30/05/2002 (ANA)

The construction of the center began in November and according to the planned timetable it will be ready for use in July 2004.

One of the most important functions of the center will be that of the Olympic Information Service, where every journalist will have access to information on athletes, coaches and referees, specialized stories, statistics and technical information on sports events and sports federations.

The center will provide results of the athletic events as the Games will be progressing, as well as statement of officials and athletes to the press and official announcements.

[23] Chinese weather bureau delegation visits Athens 2004 offices

Athens, 30/05/2002 (ANA)

The 11-member Chinese delegation was briefed efforts to organize individual sporting events, weather forecasting, as well as environmental planning in areas where Olympics-related projects and activities are scheduled.

[24] Eurobarometer: Greeks believe Greece wields least amount of influence in EU

Athens, 30/05/2002 (ANA)

According to the same results, Greeks place Portugal (45.2 percent) and Ireland (21.7) after their own, whereas Germany (85.1 percent), France (66.1) and Britain (59.3 percent) are viewed as the most influential states in the European Union.

The Eurobarometer figures were presented in the Greek capital on Wednesday during a special event held at the European Commission’s representation here.

In terms of the EU-wide average listing countries with the least amount of influence, Portugal fared the worst at 33.9 percent, followed by Greece with 29.5 percent.

Conversely, only 2.8 percent of Greek respondents in the poll believe their country is among the EU’s most influential states.

As far as specific areas in the east Mediterranean country are concerned, nearly eight out of 10 Greeks mostly disagree with the notion that their view “counts” in the EU’s decision-making centers. A noteworthy exception is the Epirus region in NW Greece, one of the poorest per capital areas of the EU, where eight out of 10 residents appear to believe the exact opposite.

Six out of 10 Greeks (63 percent) believe that most new legislation affecting their lives is now passed in Brussels, whereas 87 percent of Greek respondents in the poll backed the view that the Union’s largest countries essentially hold the greatest power in the EU.

In terms of Greek ministers’ promotion of Athens positions at the EU level, 47.1 percent of respondents offered a negative view, as opposed to 36.8 percent with a positive view.

Finally, only one out of 100 Greeks surveyed in the poll said he considers himself well-informed on issues focusing on EU expansion.

The Eurobarometer survey was conducted between Jan. 22 and Feb. 28 in all 15 member-states, with 1,004 residents queried throughout Greece.

[25] Greek & foreign Eurodeputies call for return of Parthenon Marbles to Greece

BRUSSELS 30/05/2002 (ANA - G. Zitouniati)

Taking part in the event, as well as at the inauguration of an exhibition titled ''Marbles in Exile'', were, among others, former French education minister Jacques Lang, California University professor St. Miller, Benaki Museum director A. Delivorias and film director Jules Dassin.

Speakers at the event included Greek Eurodeputies Dimitris Tsatsos (PASOK), Stavros Xarhakos (New Democracy) and Alekos Alavanos (Coalition of the Left and Progress).

[26] Some 200,000 people in Greece live by exploiting 20,000 women

Athens, 30/05/2002 (ANA)

The conference is organized by UNESCO's Center for Women and Peace in the Balkan countries and the Thessaloniki Balkan Stability Pact office.

According to data presented, the 20,000 women are forced into prostitution, having served about one million men, or one third of the active male population of the country.

Thessaloniki Police Director George Kokkinis noted that 95 per cent of the exploited women in Greece come from Eastern and Central Europe, as well as the Balkans, they are 18 to 30 years of age, they were unemployed in their homelands and their education is that of tertiary or high school level.

''Many victims have psychological problems, suffer from diseases connected to sex and a small percentage are drug addicts,'' he added, in providing a profile of the victimized women.

Bonnie Miller to launch briefing campaign in Greece on trafficking of women: Bonnie Miller, wife of U.S. Ambassador to Athens Thomas Miller, is to launch a briefing campaign in Greece on the phenomenon of the trafficking of women.

Addressing the international conference on ''The Trafficking of People'' in Thessaloniki, northern Greece, on Wednesday, Bonnie Miller, who is a social worker, said that within the framework of her briefing on the specific problem, she will cooperate with the Greek-American Women's Philanthropic Organization and will intensify her efforts for the operation of two hostels in Thessaloniki and Athens for victims of exploitation.

It was announced at the conference, which began on Tuesday night with the participation of 60 representatives from 14 countries, that three videos will be projected on Greek television from June so as to sensitize people towards this phenomenon.

Bonnie Miller referred to her experience on the issue in

Bosnia-Herzegovina where unemployment reaches 40 per cent. She stressed that the welcome center operating there offers psychological support to 30 women, victims of sexual exploitation.

''The women victims of the networks in trafficking of people display self-destructive tendencies,'' Bonnie Miller said.

The conference, organized by the UNESCO Center for Women and Peace in Balkan countries and the Thessaloniki Stability Pact's office, is aimed at sensitizing citizens, governments and non-governmental organizations on the phenomenon of the modern slave trade.

[27] German national killed in argument

Athens, 30/05/2002 (ANA)

The town's deputy mayor Dimitris Lambropoulos, a 62-year-old businessman, told police that he had fatally injured 70-year-old German national Armin Scharnsberger when he threw a rock at his head during an argument over property differences.

Scharnsberger was a permanent resident of Vassilitsi village in Messinia for the past 10 years.

The Koroni police department was investigating the case, while an autopsy was due to be performed later Wednesday.

[28] Turkey fully supports co-hosting with Greece the Euro 2008 Championship

ISTANBUL 30/05/2002 (ANA - A. Kourkoulas)

''The candidacy of Turkey and Greece to co-host the finals of Euro 2008 European Football Championship is a significant step in the development of good neighborly relations between our two countries.,'' Cem said in his statement, adding ''I am personally involved in this project together with my distinguished Greek counterpart. ''

''The Turkish Government fully supports the Football Federation of Turkey in this endeavor that is being pursued jointly with the Greek Football Federation,'' he stressed.

[29] UN top envoy plays more active role at direct talks, spokesman says

NICOSIA 30/05/2002 (CNA/ANA)

Speaking after Wednesday's National Council meeting, the spokesman said President Glafcos Clerides briefed leaders of the eight parliamentary parties, comprising the National Council, about his talks with the Greek government last week in Athens. The Council will meet again next Thursday to give the opportunity to the parties to comment on what they have heard.

''Following the Secretary General's visit to Cyprus, the role and the intervention at the talks of his special adviser Alvaro de Soto has become more active and more intense,'' Papapetrou said, replying to questions.

Asked if de Soto has submitted any papers at the talks, the spokesman said the UN envoy had not put forward any suggestion but declined to say whether de Soto has made oral suggestions to President Clerides and Turkish Cypriot leader Rauf Denktash, who have been engaged in direct talks since mid January this year.

Papapetrou said Clerides and Denktash discussed security concerns at Tuesday's meeting, noting that he expects Friday's meeting will deal with security as well.

No decision has been taken about what to discuss next, after Friday, he said.

Invited to say whether the government is optimistic that the talks will continue, he said ''the government expresses neither optimism nor pessimism'' and added ''we have a long way to go and we have many obstacles to overcome.''

Commenting on Wednesday's National Council meeting, he said President Clerides briefed Council members about ''all the scenarios discussed in Athens last week with the Greek government and party leaders will have the chance to outline their views on what was said.''

He said the parties will present their positions orally. Papapetrou said no decisions were taken at the Athens talks and explained that any decisions that need to be taken will be taken in Cyprus.

[30] Cyprus protests arrival of Turkish research vessel

UNITED NATIONS 30/05/2002 (CNA/ANA)

In a letter sent on Tuesday to Annan, Cyprus Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Sotos Zachkeos, stressed ''this action constitutes a clear violation of international law, the Charter of the United Nations and most specifically of the relevant provisions of the 1982 Convention on the Law of the Sea.''

''Piri Reis'' arrived in Cypriot territorial waters on May 23 and ''has been conducting research within the territorial waters and the continental shelf of the Republic of Cyprus, in order to 'reveal the geological structure of the region''', Zackheos noted.

He said this action ''flagrantly violates resolutions of the General Assembly and the Security Council on 'The Situation in Cyprus' which, call inter alia, for respect of the sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence of Cyprus. Moreover it falls within the wider context of Turkish refusal to facilitate a solution of the Cyprus problem based on Security Council resolutions,'' the Cyprus Permanent Representative said.

As he noted ''what is most disturbing is the timing of this provocation'', which comes soon after Kofi Annan's visit to the island earlier this month, in an effort to intensify the ongoing direct talks and to the earlier call, by the Security Council, upon the Turkish side on May 4, to cooperate in that effort.

''On behalf of the government of the Republic of Cyprus, I strongly protest this action, that once more reveals, the real motives of Turkish policy towards Cyprus, which is not the often-proclaimed protection of the Turkish Cypriots, but the furtherance of Turkish expansionist designs and exploitation of the natural resources of Cyprus,'' Zackheos underlined.

He said the Cyprus government followed with great concern ''this renewed display of Turkish belligerence and the attempt at creating tension'' and expressed the expectation ''that the necessary urgent demarches will be undertaken towards Ankara'' by the UN Secretary General and individually and the Members of the Security Council.

[31] Government welcomes remarks by EU senior official

NICOSIA 30/05/2002 (CNA/ANA)

''I would like to highlight two recent statements by High Representative for Common Foreign and Security Policy Javier Solana with regard to the Cyprus question, that assume particular significance because they follow, interpret and clarify fully previous remarks, for which Solana was criticized,'' government spokesman Michalis Papapetrou said on Wednesday in a written statement.

Speaking in Copenhagen last week, Solana said the decision on how to handle Cyprus within the EU has already been taken.

''If Cyprus concludes in a satisfactory manner its accession negotiations, it will join the EU. The problem of division will not have been solved but Cyprus will join the Union,'' Solana added.

About a month ago Solana was reported to have said that if there is no solution to the island's political problem, then only part of the country will join the EU. Brussels said in December 1999 that a political settlement would facilitate Cyprus' accession but it is not a precondition for membership.

Replying to questions by a Greek Euro MP on his reported comments, Solana explained that he had merely expressed concern that failure to reach a settlement in Cyprus prior to accession would mean that EU laws and regulations will not be able to be implemented in the part of Cyprus which is not under the jurisdiction of the government of the Republic.

Solana also said that the 1999 decision at Helsinki is still valid.

[32] Annemie Neyts: Cyprus' perspective to join EU comes nearer

NICOSIA 30/05/2002 (CNA/ANA)

The Belgian Minister was speaking to the press after a meeting here with President Glafcos Clerides, with whom she discussed the current situation of the Cyprus issue as well as Cyprus' accession negotiations with the European Union.

Neyts is participating in the Regional Conference of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) for Europe, which opened on Wednesday in Nicosia.

''The perspective for Cyprus to join the EU is coming nearer and nearer,'' she said and added that ''those on this island who believe that they have all the time of the world are very mistaken. And this is the message I will bring to everybody''.

She said ''I want to express my admiration and appreciation for the fact that Cyprus has succeeded in closing 28 chapters for the accession negotiations with the EU.''

Asked whether the final decision for the enlargement will be one for all ten-candidate countries or one for each country, she said that this has not been definitely decided.

She expressed the view, however, that the decision has been made and it will depend on the progress of the accession negotiations, which are progressing ''very well''.

The Belgian minister added that Cyprus is among the top groups and expressed conviction that the decisions of the EU Summit in Laaken last December will be confirmed.

[33] Cypriot parties urge leaders to 'work constructively' for settlement

NICOSIA 30/05/2002 (CNA/ANA)

The call came in a joint communique, issued after a two-hour long meeting, which also announced that party representatives will meet again on 10 July at the Ledra Palace hotel, in the UN controlled buffer zone.

''The participants discussed some substantial questions of the solution of the Cyprus problem and they called upon the leaders of both communities to work constructively in the direct talks to find a just, viable and lasting solution to the best interests of all Cypriots,'' the communique said.

Seven Greek Cypriot parties and four Turkish Cypriot parties were represented at Wednesday's meeting.

The meeting take place under the aegis of the Slovak Ambassador here Dusan Rozbora.

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