Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English, 02-12-17

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

CONTENTS

[01] Solving the Cyprus problem the next step after Copenhagen, PM tells President

[02] EU candidates' accession agreement to be signed on April 16

[03] Turkish FM Yakis: 'Walls have been erected around Turkey', now on a narrow path

[04] EU, NATO sign permanent cooperation agreement

[05] Alternate FM in Berlin for Greek EU presidency

[06] Macedonia-Thrace minister announces Greek EU presidency's Balkan priorities

[07] FM and Red Cross Committee president discuss EU presidency

[08] Deputy DM concludes two-day visit in Bosnia

[09] Coalition party leader discusses Turkey's EU accession

[10] Kaklamanis congratulates Cypriot counterpart, invites him to Athens

[11] Gov't spokesman denies rumors of cabinet reshuffle

[12] Minister outlines Greek presidency's environmental priorities

[13] Increase in 'Euro-skepticism' by the ten new EU candidate countries, survey

[14] Papandreou-Yiannitsis press conference on Tuesday

[15] FM to meet with Cyprus Speaker of the House of Representatives

[16] Gov't to set priority on combatting inflation in 2003

[17] Karamanlis sharply criticizes 2003 state budget as yet another fraud

[18] Labor leaders, top industry rep address ND deputies

[19] Gov't says suburban railway project on schedule

[20] Stocks slip in flaccid trade

[21] Deputy minister and Italian Eurodeputy discuss Olympic Games

[22] EU Commissioner Reding signs Olympic Truce declaration

[23] Bakoyianni's attacker taken to Korydallos psychiatric ward

[24] Court ruling OKs female 'N17' suspect's request to meet with son

[25] Ninety per cent of minors using website at chat rooms touch on sex

[26] Justice minister inaugurates conference on Eurojust, EU's new institution

[27] Fish come to fishermen in a real life 'tale' in Kavala, N. Greece

[28] Greece, Cyprus sign sports agreement

[29] Spokesman says outcome of reactions to determine solution

[30] FM Kasoulides says Annan plan can be improved

[31] Van der Meer says February 28 second window of opportunity

[01] Solving the Cyprus problem the next step after Copenhagen, PM tells President

Athens, 17/12/2002 (ANA)

During the one-hour meeting, Simitis briefed the president on the events at the EU summit and also thanked Stephanopoulos for the part he played in achieving a good result in Copenhagen through his international contacts.

The government would work in order to bring about an end to the division on Cyprus and would seek a solution that was just, viable and functional, the prime minister added.

On the premier's arrival, Stephanopoulos expressed satisfaction at the summit's results and Cyprus entry into the Community, stressing that this was the first active recognition that right was on Cyprus' side. He also congratulated the government and Simitis in person for his success in a very difficult mission and the leader of main opposition New Democracy for his role in bringing about the desired result.

Gov't spokesman welcomes Cyprus' EU accession: Government spokesman Christos Protopapas on Monday welcomed the decision taken by European Union leaders in Copenhagen to allow Cyprus' accession to the Community without "asterisks and footnotes".

He described the decision as a "national success" that was the result of "correct and effective tactics" and congratulated the Cyprus government for its efforts to meet accession criteria and for its handling of the Cyprus issue.

Another important factor that contributed to the successful outcome in Copenhagen was the "broad national unity" on this issue, the spokesman added.

Protopapas stressed the need to continue efforts for a solution to the Cyprus problem and pointed out that Turkey had received a number of messages in Copenhagen but also from the spontaneous protests staged by Turkish-Cypriots in northern Cyprus.

Regarding Cyprus exclusion from the European rapid reaction force, Protopapas pointed out that Cyprus would not have any army if the Cyprus solution were implemented.

Furthermore, the EU force was designed for peace-keeping missions outside EU borders, whereas Cyprus would now be a member of the EU, while this development was both known and accepted.

Karamanlis congratulates Cyprus over its accession to EU: Main opposition New Democracy (ND) leader Costas Karamanlis on Monday congratulated the people of Cyprus and the island republic’s leadership following a historic EU decision late last week to invite the country to join the Union.

Karamanlis noted that Cyprus fulfilled all the criteria for EU accession despite the “unfavorable conditions” created by the ongoing occupation of 37 percent of the island republic’s territory by Turkish troops.

In statements before deputies belonging to party’s parliamentary group, Karamanlis added that a ND government in 1990 decided, in close cooperation with the government of Cyprus, for an accession course by the island republic, noting that another positive development lies in the fact that every government that followed promoted this goal until its fruition on Friday.

Moreover, he called for a unified Greek foreign policy strategy to be formulated, in light of tough negotiations expected to focus over the coming months on a Cyprus solution.

Finally, in a reference to Prime Minister Costas Simitis, Karamanlis said the former should now be certain that “everyone wants to and can contribute to national efforts”, before calling on Simitis to immediately promote legislation establishing a political party leaders’ council for foreign policy.

Greeks & Greek Cypriots to work for Cyprus problem resolution, FM spokesman says: Foreign Ministry spokesman Panagiotis Beglitis on Monday said that the target of the Greek and Greek Cypriot side, following Copenhagen, is to maintain the momentum for the continuation of negotiations for the resolution of the Cyprus issue.

He said that Cyprus' accession to the European Union has had a positive effect on the efforts to resolve the long-standing political problem of the island republic, adding that the efforts of the Greek side are not limited to the Copenhagen Summit, rather it will go through other stages during the upcoming period, since Athens and Nicosia will cooperate in the co-formulation and the completion of the financial package, concerning the social fabric of the occupied part of Cyprus.

Beglitis stressed that the framework of negotiations for the resolution of the Cyprus problem remains the same, as was set by United Nations Secretary General Kofi Annan, adding, however, that this does not mean that effort should not be made to make changes or amendments to the text.

[02] EU candidates' accession agreement to be signed on April 16

Athens, 17/12/2002 (ANA)

In parallel, the new European Commission to result from the election of its president by the European Parliament in June, 2004, will receive its mandate in November of the same year.

Referring to developments in the wake of last week's EU Copenhagen summit, the European Commission's Press and Communication general director Panos Karvounis said the conclusions of the European Council in Copenhagen are the outcome of a 10-year process which had begun again in the Danish capital.

The positive result stemmed from a strong political will both from EU member-states and candidate countries themselves.

Karvounis added that candidate countries have not received ''free passports'' and their adjustment efforts should continue.

The EU, in order to help candidate countries to adjust, will provide them with 40.8 billion euros in the years to come.

On the question of discussions concerning changes in the EU, Karvounis said the European Commission’s president has summarized his views in light of the Intergovernmental Conference in a ''red book'' named Penelope.

[03] Turkish FM Yakis: 'Walls have been erected around Turkey', now on a narrow path

ISTANBUL 17/12/2002 (ANA - A. Kourkoulas)

Yakis, speaking at a discussion in the TV program ''Political Coffee shop'', explained that ''if Turkey refuses to sign a settlement of the Cyprus problem by February 28, 2003, the EU will claim that the Turkish armed forces occupy a part of the EU.'' ''If we reach a solution on February 28, Cyprus, which domestically will comprise of two parts, will become a single member of the EU, as provided by the Annan plan,'' the Turkish foreign minister said.

''If the sides do not manage to reach a solution, the Greek Cypriot side will become an EU member, representing the whole of Cyprus,'' Yakis said, adding that ''if this happens, the EU will be receiving in its ranks a sick child.''

The Turkish minister explained that the tactic which was followed in Copenhagen secured time for negotiating a settlement of the Cyprus problem.

If Cyprus President Glafcos Clerides ''had signed the Annan plan in Copenhagen, we would have had to decide on the issue immediately within half an hour, however, we now have 48 days,'' Yakis concluded.

Meanwhile, Republican People's Party (CHP) leader Deniz Baykal termed as ''pitiful'', Yakis' statement that ''the Turkish armed forces will be occupying a part of the EU.''

[04] EU, NATO sign permanent cooperation agreement

BRUSSELS 17/12/2002 (ANA - B. Demiris)

The Union and NATO issued a declaration stating that their relations will be governed by respect for the Charter of the United Nations and the peaceful settlement of differences, in the framework of the idea that ''no country should terrorize another with the use or threat of use of violence''.

The agreement was signed by the Union's high representative for defense and security affairs Javier Solana and NATO's General Secretary Lord George Robertson.

The declaration also noted that the two signatory parties would complement each other in operations that they will undertake, recognizing, however, the equality between them as well as their autonomy in decision making.

The text also stressed that the interests of the Union's member-states should be respected as well as those of NATO, while securing the greatest possible participation of NATO member-states that are not members of the Union in the European Policy of Security and Defense.

With this agreement the European forces will enjoy access to NATO's planning capabilities.

[05] Alternate FM in Berlin for Greek EU presidency

BERLIN 17/12/2002 (ANA - P. Stangos)

Yiannitsis, who arrived in the German capital on Saturday, was due to address an event on Monday night titled ''The Greek Presidency-New challenges for Europe.''

Speaking to Greek reporters here on Sunday night, Yiannitsis disclosed that the Greek presidency will not be at all easy due to a double negative conjuncture.

On the one hand it will be due to the expected invasion of Iraq and its repercussions, both within the EU and in its relations with third countries, and to the unfavorable economic climate prevailing, on the other.

Outlining the Greek presidency's priorities to Greek reporters, Yiannitsis referred to the signing of the 10 EU candidate countries' accession agreement in Athens on April 16 and to the policy of support which should be followed for Bulgaria and Romania, as well as for the so-called western Balkan countries, meaning the countries of former Yugoslavia and Albania.

On the question of Cyprus, the Greek minister said that following the positive outcome regarding accession in Copenhagen and the relevant decision included in the EU summit's conclusions, the sector concerning a solution to the political problem is not part of the Greek presidency's jurisdiction but is part of the framework of processes moving under the auspices of the UN.

[06] Macedonia-Thrace minister announces Greek EU presidency's Balkan priorities

Athens, 17/12/2002 (ANA)

Speaking in Thessaloniki during a press conference as part of a Stability Pact meeting, Paschalidis stressed that the Greek EU presidency will pay special attention to the conditions and prospects of southeastern Europe.

These priorities, he said, include support for peace, stability and democratic development, promotion of the stabilization process and the joint confrontation of crime.

[07] FM and Red Cross Committee president discuss EU presidency

Athens, 17/12/2002 (ANA)

Papandreou said they also discussed contributing to the promotion, through cooperation, of human values and humanitarian law at international level.

''I thank him in particular for his support of the idea of the Olympic Truce as well which, to a great degree, is in the same spirit, the same roots and the same tradition of humanitarian law,'' Papandreou said.

Kellenberger said it is a tradition of the International Red Cross Committee to meet representatives of the new presidency every six months and to discuss common activities.

He added that his discussion with Papandreou also concerned the activities of both the International Committee and the European Union, since both bodies are preoccupied with respect for international humanitarian law.

[08] Deputy DM concludes two-day visit in Bosnia

Athens, 17/12/2002 (ANA)

During his stay in the country, the minister met with the Greek troops of the international peacekeeping force and celebrated with them the 7th anniversary of their presence in the country.

[09] Coalition party leader discusses Turkey's EU accession

ISTANBUL 17/12/2002 (ANA - A. Kourkoulas)

Constantopoulos said his party wants to work for a further rapprochement between Greece and Turkey during the EU's Greek presidency (in the first half of 2003), adding that a solution to the Cyprus issue will bring Turkey closer to the EU.

Speaking at a joint press conference with Erdogan's adviser Saban Disli, Constantopoulos said obstacles in the path for a solution to the Cyprus issue will be against Turkey, Greece and Cyprus and added that substantive and practical discussions should take place by February 28.

Earlier, Constantopoulos and his party's delegation members visited Foreign Minister Yasar Yakis and discussed relations between the two countries and the role of political parties in shaping a climate of friendship, cooperation and good neighborliness between the peoples of the two countries.

Constantopoulos also held a similar meeting with Turkey's main opposition Republican People's Party leader Deniz Baykal, who said later ''we are ascertaining with great pleasure that Greek-Turkish relations are developing smoothly. There is a considerable contribution by the two governments and, at the same time, by political parties and social organizations in both countries in this direction.''

[10] Kaklamanis congratulates Cypriot counterpart, invites him to Athens

Athens, 17/12/2002 (ANA)

At the same time, Kaklamanis invited House of Representatives President Demetris Christofias to visit Athens for a joint review of the developments. The Cypriot House leader accepted the invitation and will depart for the Greek capital on Tuesday.

In a letter to Christofias, Kaklamanis praised the genial and effective cooperation developed between the two parliaments during Cyprus' EU course.

In the same letter, Kaklamanis invited his counterpart to visit Athens to jointly review the developments and evaluate the obligations of the two parliaments during the Greek EU presidency and Cyprus' accession to the EU.

For this reason, Christofias will depart on Tuesday for Athens where he will attend a Greek Parliament debate on the Cyprus problem.

[11] Gov't spokesman denies rumors of cabinet reshuffle

Athens, 17/12/2002 (ANA)

The focus would remain on the program for creating a 'strong Greece', with emphasis on building up a strong economy and a strong and united society, he said.

Over the coming period, the government would primarily occupy itself with major foreign policy issues in conjunction with the government on Cyprus, he added.

Protopapas also noted that the priorities of the imminent Greek EU presidency would be ratified on Tuesday.

Another priority would be major economic issues, such as improving Greek competitiveness and the income of Greeks, while another major goal was to speed up efforts to reduce everyday problems faced by the public.

[12] Minister outlines Greek presidency's environmental priorities

Athens, 17/12/2002 (ANA)

Addressing a meeting of academics and NGOs involved in environmental issues, Papandreou said that the first goal would be to carry out the commitments made by the EU at the Johannesburg Earth Summit for promoting sustainable development within and outside the Community. She said this would be achieved by enhancing the environmental aspects of the Lisbon process and boosting the Cardiff process.

The summer council of EU environment ministers in 2003 would issue clear instructions for implementing these decisions, she added.

[13] Increase in 'Euro-skepticism' by the ten new EU candidate countries, survey

Athens, 17/12/2002 (ANA)

The results of the survey were presented on Monday by the committee's president and representative of the National Confederation of Greek Commerce, Dimitris Dimitriadis.

The highest percentage of ''Euro-skepticism'' was recorded in Malta as 35 per cent of the citizens appeared not to trust the European Union. It was followed by Slovenia, Estonia and Latvia with 29 percent, Cyprus with 26 per cent, Poland with 21 per cent, the Czech Republic and Lithuania with 20 per cent, Slovakia with 18 per cent and Hungary with 13 per cent.

[14] Papandreou-Yiannitsis press conference on Tuesday

Athens, 17/12/2002 (ANA)

[15] FM to meet with Cyprus Speaker of the House of Representatives

Athens, 17/12/2002 (ANA)

[16] Gov't to set priority on combatting inflation in 2003

Athens, 17/12/2002 (ANA)

After a meeting with the prime minister, Christodoulakis told reporters that the problem of inflation remained, having an unfavorable impact on competitiveness.

He called on companies and consumers to contribute to reducing prices.

The minister also said that the government would seek to tone up the exports sector in 2003, support small and medium-sized enterprises, and work to attain economic regional alignment.

Finally, Christodoulakis said that inflation was having a negative impact on returns from accounts held by small depositors.

As a result, banks had agreed earlier in the day to increase the number of longer-term government bonds they sell to the public, which offer a yield above inflation.

''As interest rates are declining, it's natural for depositors to seek more attractive placements for their money. These long-term bonds usually have yields quite a bit above inflation,'' Christodoulakis said.

[17] Karamanlis sharply criticizes 2003 state budget as yet another fraud

Athens, 17/12/2002 (ANA)

Karamanlis stressed that the 2003 budget will simply comprise another “link” in a chain of “bogus and unreliable budgets by the last few governments ... yet more evidence of the impasses created by the preservative financial management of the past few years.”

In citing recent figures supplied by the “Eurostat” agency, the ND leader charged that the current government never submitted a truly surplus budget, whereas a decrease in public debt and fiscal reforms are no more than a “myth” that has collapsed and revealed a “major political fraud”.

Referring to what he called “so-called modernization” of state-run enterprises and utilities, Karamanlis said lofty words remained only on paper, stressing that “every enterprise is a scandal, every public utility is a bankruptcy.” Among others, he pointed to Olympic Airways, Agriculture Bank of Greece, accumulated debts by the state-run railway, public transports as well as the state telecoms utility’s (OTE) overseas investments.

Moreover, Karamanlis charged that the government’s promises regarding economic and social convergence bare absolutely no reality to the true state of the economy, as Greece’s economy remains the poorest in the ‘euro zone’, while he said claims of a ‘social state’ and social policy rank as only a provocation for citizens.

In terms of corruption in the public sector, the ND leader said the state’s and individual services’ modernization has become synonymous with impunity and citizens’ hardships, “as the kickback has become a regime with a specific rate.”

Finally, he cited what he called an attempt to deceive Greek citizens regarding the absorption rate for community funds, which he said does not surpass the 11-percent mark.

[18] Labor leaders, top industry rep address ND deputies

Athens, 17/12/2002 (ANA)

The group’s secretary, Dimitris Sioufas, cited what he called a cowardly attack, echoing statements by other deputies and scheduled speakers. Bakoyianni narrowly escaped the attempt against her life when she apparently tried to retrieve an address book from the backseat floor of a car she was riding in at precisely the moment a would-be assassin – identified as a former mental ward patient – fired once with a shotgun at the vehicle.

Meanwhile, in terms of the budget, GSEE trade union leader Christos Polyzogopoulos told ND deputies that the country’s economy faces a highly competitive international environment that may lead to “painful repercussions”. He also cited “internal difficulties” as hampering the economy.

However, he also said regional economic and social inequalities must be overcome via the upcoming state budget, while referring to a lack of volition, on the government’s part, to proceed with reform and in-depth dialogue over the budget.

On his part, the vice-president of the country’s largest civil servants’ union, ADEDY, expressed his dissatisfaction over what he called a stereotyped view of public sector corruption, stressing that a majority of civil servants are “honest people”.

Among others, ADEDY vice-president Mr. Papantoniou also claimed that Greek civil servants’ salaries are 20 percent below the EU’s real convergence levels.

Finally, Federation of Greek Industries (SEB) president Odysseas Kyriakopoulos called for stricter and more disciplined fiscal policy, without adverse repercussions on economic development. He also expressed concern over the fact that inflation is greater than the country’s growth rate, as he claimed.

[19] Gov't says suburban railway project on schedule

Athens, 17/12/2002 (ANA)

In 2004, the railway would carry 120,000 passengers daily, doubling to 250,000 in 2010 and 340,000 in 2020, Verelis told reporters during a tour of construction sites.

[20] Stocks slip in flaccid trade

Athens, 17/12/2002 (ANA)

The general share index shed 0.17 percent to end at 1,817.35 points. Turnover was 71.2 million euros.

The FTSE/ASE-20 index for blue chip and heavily traded stocks ended 0.03 percent down; the FTSE/ASE-40 for medium capitalization paper 0.32 percent lower; and the FTSE/ASE-80 for small cap equities finished 0.53 percent down.

Of stocks traded, declines led advances at 178 to 102 with 76 issues remaining unchanged.

The most heavily traded stocks in value were Hellenic Telecommunications Organization, Terna, Kardasilaris, LogicDis and Public Power Corporation.

Derivatives Market Close: Turnover at 66.1 mln euros Monday

Equity Index Futures: