Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English, 02-09-24

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] PM, foreign minister satisfied with election results in Germany

[02] Germany's Schroeder lauds Simitis for Greece's role in Balkans,

[03] Cyprus solution still achievable, UN envoy says after talks in Athens

[04] Simitis to visit London, Paris and Berlin in October, November

[05] FM Papandreou cites phone contacts with Arafat

[06] Deputy FM Yiannitsis to address Europarliament

[07] Defense minister and Evert discuss prospects of war in Iraq

[08] Main opposition seeks to up political stakes in local polls

[09] Athens mayor supports Bakoyianni's candidacy for Athens

[10] Turk arrested on Limnos on espionage charges

[11] Judicial council OKs DNA testing of first woman 'N17' suspect

[12] Alleged ''N 17'' member petitions for restraining order against TV stations

[13] Anti-war rally to be held in Athens on September 26

[14] FM to receive British ambassador on Tues.

[15] Corporate bond market draft bill to be submitted in October

[16] Greek MEP discusses contract worker issue with President

[17] Athens hosts ROUTES 2002 airline development conference

[18] GNTO discuss tourism cooperation with US, Canada

[19] Greece wants to award cotton producers extra compensation

[20] Greek stocks end 1.73 percent lower on Monday

[21] Japanese tourist arrivals to rise sharply ahead of Athens 2004

[22] Radio still popular in the EU as shown by Eurostat data

[23] NYC mayor meets with Ecumenical Patriarch in Istanbul

[24] Border guards arrest trucker carrying 25 illegal immigrants

[25] Athens Classic Marathon on Nov. 3

[26] EU Ambassador: Cyprus role in EU enlargement will be ''instrumental''

[27] Solana and Lord Hannay discuss Cyprus problem

[28] Cyprus chief negotiator certain of accession to

[29] Foreign Minister: Denktash's proposal not helpful

[01] PM, foreign minister satisfied with election results in Germany

COPENHAGEN 24/09/2002 (ANA - M. Spinthourakis)

Simitis was in Copenhagen to attend a joint summit of EU and Southeast Asian countries (ASEM).

According to the Greek premier, the re-election of German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder would ensure the continuity of Europe's common foreign and security policy, which was necessary in these difficult times, as well as policies for growth, social justice and social cohesion. Finally, he said it would also act as a guarantee for European enlargement that would limit regional inequalities.

Speaking from Athens, meanwhile, Greek foreign minister George Papandreou similarly welcomed the re-election of the Social Democrat-Greens alliance, which was largely due to rise in support for the Greens party led by his German counterpart Joschka Fischer.

Commenting on Fischer's 'personal success' in Sunday's election, Papandreou said he was particularly satisfied that he would be able to continue working with the German foreign minister who - in addition to being a colleague and personal friend - was also a ''friend of Greece.''

Asked how the German election results affected EU developments, Papandreou explained that as European unification deepened, developments in one country influenced all the other countries of the Union.

He said that the re-election of two center-left coalitions -- first in Sweden and on Sunday in Germany -- ''reinforces our ability as the Greek Presidency of the EU to advance certain issues considered of top priority for the center-left forces of Europe''.

Other members of the Greek government, including Finance Minister Nikos Christodoulakis and Development Minister Akis Tsohatzopoulos, said the results marked the end of a conservative backlash by European voters seen in the past year.

From the opposition parties, the election result was commented on by Athens mayoral candidate Dora Bakoyianni, a high-ranking member of the center-right main opposition New Democracy.

Bakoyianni noted that Schroeder's party had seen its majority drop sharply compared to the previous elections and that the big winner of Sunday's polls was Greens leader Joschka Fischer, who had been rewarded by the Germans for his foreign policy.

She predicted that the German chancellor would be up against serious problems in economic issues and unemployment, which many in ND believed would also affect EU policy.

Simitis congratulates via telephone re-elected German Chancellor: Prime Minister Costas Simitis on Monday called Germany's re-elected Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder to congratulate him for his victory in Sunday's elections.

Simitis also called Green Party leader Joschka Fischer to congratulate him for the decisive contribution of his party in the election victory of the governmental coalition, formed by Germany's SPD and Green party.

Simitis, who is in Copenhagen for the ASEM meeting, according to sources, will visit Berlin, Paris and London, after the Brussels Summit scheduled for Oct. 24 and 25.

He will be in London on October 28 for talks with British Prime Minister Tony Blair, in Paris on November 6-7 where he will be meeting French President Jacques Chirac, and in Berlin on November 8 for talks with Gerhard Schroeder.

[02] Germany's Schroeder lauds Simitis for Greece's role in Balkans,

EU BERLIN 24/09/2002 (ANA - P. Stangos)

Schroeder, during his first press conference after his Sunday election victory, responding to questions of Greek journalists, said that Greece, despite the fact that it is a small country, plays a positive role not only in the Balkan region, but also in Europe in general.

''Germany respects the deeply role of Greece, under the leadership of by friend Costas Simitis, who's voice is especially significant within the circle of our European colleagues,'' Schroeder said.

Earlier in the day, Simitis had expressed his satisfaction for SPD's victory in the elections, while according to sources Simitis congratulated the German Chancellor in person during a telephone conversation they had.

[03] Cyprus solution still achievable, UN envoy says after talks in Athens

Athens, 24/09/2002 (ANA)

De Soto stressed that all was not lost and that UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan was convinced that a solution was achievable, despite the great differences that still existed between the Greek-Cypriot and Turkish-Cypriot sides on the divided island.

The UN envoy was in Athens on Monday to sound out Greek positions relative to ongoing UN efforts for a solution to the Cyprus problem. He is currently conducting another tour of Athens, Nicosia and Ankara to prepare for the meetings planned by Annan with Cyprus President Glafcos Clerides and Turkish-Cypriot leader Rauf Denktash in New York on October 3-4, where the UN chief will again attempt to mediate for a final solution to the Cyprus issue.

Commenting on the meeting, Papandreou said he had conveyed the Greek government's positions on the Cyprus problem, Cyprus' accession to the EU and relations between the EU and Turkey.

The Greek minister also underlined that an opportunity to solve the Cyprus problem still existed and called on all the interested parties to take advantage of this for a final solution that was in accord with UN resolutions and European practice.

The UN envoy described his talks with Papandreou as 'interesting' and announced that he would be visiting Ankara next week.

[04] Simitis to visit London, Paris and Berlin in October, November

COPENHAGEN 24/09/2002 (ANA - M. Spinthourakis)

Simitis, who is in Copenhagen for the ASEM meeting, will be in London on October 28 for talks with British Prime Minister

participation of the European Union's leadership and that of many Asian countries to focus on current affairs of common interest, such as the crisis in the Middle East, Iraq and Korea.

Prime Minister Costas Simitis arrived here to represent Greece at the ASEM meeting, along with the rest of the EU's leaders, except for German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder and British Premier Tony Blair.

ASEM is an informal process of dialogue and cooperation bringing together the fifteen EU member-states and the European Commission, as well as ten Asian countries. The Asian participants in ASEM are: Brunei, China, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.

The ASEM dialogue addresses political, economic and cultural issues, with the objective of strengthening the relationship between our two regions in a spirit of mutual respect and equal partnership.

The first ASEM Summit was held in Bangkok in March 1996, giving rise to an ongoing process including summit-level meetings every second year, ministerial-level meetings in the intervening years (although now normally once a year) plus a range of meetings and activities at working level.

On the question of Iraq, the participants agreed that a solution for the problem should be sought within the United Nations' framework.

The problem of the Middle East was also a focal point of the meeting and the leaders are expected to express their concern over the ''siege'' of President Yasser Arafat, while they announced their support for a dialogue between North and South Korea.

[05] FM Papandreou cites phone contacts with Arafat

Athens, 24/09/2002 (ANA)

The minister said Arafat, via the Greek government, called on the European Union to intervene, a request that led to Papandreou’s later contacts with his Danish counterpart and an announcement that the EU will send a delegation to the strife-ridden West Bank as part of international efforts to defuse latest crisis.

On his part, Papandreou reiterated that there “are extremist political forces on both sides that do not want the peace process,” while reiterating that the goal is for Israel’s security to be safeguarded, while at the same time establishing a Palestinian state.

Finally, asked if Arafat’s political career is at an end, Papandreou answered in the negative, saying that his latest encirclement by Israeli forces have significantly strengthened his political clout.

[06] Deputy FM Yiannitsis to address Europarliament

Athens, 24/09/2002 (ANA)

According to sources, Yiannitsis' address will cover issues regarding the European Union's defense sector, as Greece was presiding over the European Common Security and Defense Policy.

[07] Defense minister and Evert discuss prospects of war in Iraq

Athens, 24/09/2002 (ANA)

Both men said a US war on Iraq was a likely prospect, while Evert noted that this would seriously affect Greece.

They also called for unity within Greece in dealing with major foreign policy issues, such as the Cyprus problem.

[08] Main opposition seeks to up political stakes in local polls

Athens, 24/09/2002 (ANA)

The message in this case would be one bearing the signature of ND's central party headquarters, as confirmed during the meeting chaired by ND leader Costas Karamanlis.

Analysts said the decision satisfied ND Central Committee Secretary Vangelis Meimarakis, who had initially disagreed with using this tactic as a basic element in the Attica super prefecture campaign only.

[09] Athens mayor supports Bakoyianni's candidacy for Athens

Athens, 24/09/2002 (ANA)

The mayor refused to give a similar vote of confidence for ND's candidate for the Attica super-prefecture Yiannis Tzanetakos, however, saying that he was speaking as Athens mayor and restricting himself to issues concerning the Athens municipality.

Bakoyianni is the candidate fielded in the Athens municipal elections by main opposition New Democracy, which had also backed Avramopoulos' candidacy.

Avramopoulos had quit New Democracy during his second term as Athens mayor in order to found his own party, the Movement of Free Citizens, which he later disbanded citing financial problems.

Asked to comment on Avramopoulos' statements later in the day, Bakoyianni thanked him and said the support of an experienced Athens mayor that had served the city for eight years was valuable.

[10] Turk arrested on Limnos on espionage charges

Athens, 24/09/2002 (ANA)

The suspect, identified as Mehmet Murat Pekinel, was arrested Friday afternoon while allegedly photographing military installations on the northeast Greek island of Limnos, which lies near the Dardanelles Straits.

According to reports, 57 rolls of film were confiscated on the man, along with maps of various Greek Aegean isles.

In his initial statements to police, Pekinel – who was traveling with a temporary German passport -- denied the espionage charges and claimed the photographs were for his personal use.

Three Turkish nationals of Kurdish descent were charged with spying exactly one year ago after a lengthy investigation on Lesvos reportedly turned up evidence at the trio’s temporary residence.

The three Kurds were arrested in late August 2001 after coast guard officers found two handguns on their possession during a routine check at the isle’s main port.

Maps and telecommunications equipment later confiscated at the trio’s run-down residence apparently detailed defensive maneuvers on land and around the island’s sea region.

Both Lesvos and Limnos lie off the densely populated western Turkish coast.

[11] Judicial council OKs DNA testing of first woman 'N17' suspect

Athens, 24/09/2002 (ANA)

The latest judicial council ruling affects Angeliki Sotiropoulou, 40, the companion of one top “N17” suspect and the ex-wife of another, one-time fugitive Dimitris Koufodinas and Savvas Xiros, respectively.

DNA testing, in this case, would ostensibly be used to match hairs found in two Athens-area “N17” hideouts and clandestine arsenals.

A handprint, among others, lifted from one of the two “safe houses” (Damareos street) was the basis of three felony terrorism-related counts against Sotiropoulou. She remains jailed at an Athens-area prison, along with 16 other “N17” suspects, pending trial.

In a previous statement to an investigating magistrate – one cited in the appellate council’s written justification for revoking Sotiropoulou’s temporary bail and ordering her incarceration last week – the self-described beekeeper said she visited the infamous Damareos apartment a year and a half ago with Koufodinas.

However, she told authorities the apartment was empty at the time and that Koufodinas claimed it not only belonged to one of his clients, but that he was given the keys to “keep a few things there”.

De Villiers interest in 'N17': In a related development, noted French spy novelist Gerard de Villiers apparent failed to gain the permission by the Korydallos prison authorities for visits to the 17 “N17” suspects.

De Villiers had reportedly requested permission to visit the suspects, especially alleged Paris-born “N17” leader Alexandros Giotopoulos.

The French author exited the prison Monday afternoon without replying to reporters’ questions.

[12] Alleged ''N 17'' member petitions for restraining order against TV stations

Athens, 24/09/2002 (ANA)

She petitioned the court that the television stations Alter, Alpha, Antenna, ET-1, NET, Mega and Star do not air data of her personal life and to remove their transmission equipment from in front of her home. The petition also targeted journalists Nikos Kakaounakis, Fotini Pipili, George Trangas and Anna Panagiotarea.

The petition will be brought before the court on Tuesday.

[13] Anti-war rally to be held in Athens on September 26

Athens, 24/09/2002 (ANA)

The rally will begin at Eleftherias Park at 7 p.m. and will head for the embassies of the United States and Israel.

According to an announcement by the Solidarity Committee, composer Mikis Theodorakis and 30 other artists, rectors, journalists, trade unionists and peace activists will be participating.

[14] FM to receive British ambassador on Tues.

Athens, 24/09/2002 (ANA)

[15] Corporate bond market draft bill to be submitted in October

Athens, 24/09/2002 (ANA)

Speaking to reporters, after a meeting with representatives of the Greek Banks' Union to discuss the issue, Mr. Christodoulakis stressed that the new bill would aim at facilitating Greek companies in issuing corporate bonds to cover their funding needs and to develop the corporate debt market in the country.

Under the new legislation, Greek companies will only need a board decision to issue a corporate bond, the value of which could exceeded 51 percent of a company's equity capital.

Corporate bondholders will be able to form groups to better defend their interests, while market authorities will start issuing a rating list of corporate bonds.

The new bill also envisages that companies will be able to secure future claims, including real estate assets.

Greek Banks' Union chairman, Theodore Karatzas, said that decisions taken to expand the corporate bond market were very significant as they would facilitate companies in raising capital and harmonize the country's institutional framework with that of the European Union.

[16] Greek MEP discusses contract worker issue with President

Athens, 24/09/2002 (ANA)

Alavanos told the president that the draft presidential decree presented by the government to regulate this issue conflicted utterly with the relevant EU directive and, if passed as in its present form, would not stand up in the European Court.

[17] Athens hosts ROUTES 2002 airline development conference

Athens, 24/09/2002 (ANA)

This year's conference is hosted at the Astir Palace Vouliagmeni Hotel in Athens and sponsored by the Athens International Airport.

The two-day conference brings together representatives from 130 airline companies and 250 airports around the world.

The conference has particular significance for Greece as the Athens International Airport was expected to present its competitive advantages and business opportunities to foreign airlines, particularly in the Middle East, the Balkans and Eastern Europe.

[18] GNTO discuss tourism cooperation with US, Canada

Athens, 24/09/2002 (ANA)

GNTO chairman also met with US commercial attache in Athens, Mr. Walter Haji, to discuss bilateral tourist cooperation.

Mr. Patelis recently visited the US and Canada and met with the two countries' large travel agencies.

[19] Greece wants to award cotton producers extra compensation

BRUSSELS 24/09/2002 (ANA/G.Zitouniatis)

Agriculture Minister George Drys told an EU farm ministers' meeting that he was seeking the 15-nation bloc's understanding so that losses incurred by cotton producers could be offset.

The farmers had faced difficulties in meeting the requirements of a new set of rules due to the time of the year the rules were ordained, and a delay by the EU's executive Commission in providing a clear-cut interpretation of key points, which came after sowing, Drys said.

He added that the subsidies would not have an adverse impact on fair competition.

[20] Greek stocks end 1.73 percent lower on Monday

Athens, 24/09/2002 (ANA)

The general index dropped 1.73 percent to end at 1,853.98 points, with turnover a low 62.5 million euros.

The Cement, Insurance and Food-Beverage sectors suffered the heaviest percentage losses of the day (3.21 percent, 3.12 percent and 2.92 percent, respectively).

The FTSE/ASE 20 index for blue chip and heavy traded stocks dropped 2.03 percent, reflecting losses in blue chips like National Bank (off 3.18 percent), the FTSE/ASE MID 40 index ended 1.46 percent lower and the FTSE/ASE SmallCap 80 index fell 1.95 percent.

Broadly, decliners led advancers by 277 to 48 with another 32 issues unchanged.

The most heavily traded stocks in value were Hellenic Telecommunications Organization, Commercial Bank of Greece, Alfa-Alfa, and Mohlos.

Derivatives Market Close: Turnover at 61.4 mln euros Monday

Equity Index Futures: