Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English, 04-09-24

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

CONTENTS

[01] US Secretary of State Powell's visit to Athens postponed

[02] FM Molyviatis says no anti-Americanism in Greece against the U.S. and its citizens

[03] Greek and FYROM FMs agree on speedup of dialogue on name problem

[04] Roussopoulos on Tsitouridis resignation, decision for fiscal audit

[05] PM satisfied with ministers' work, gov't spokesman stresses

[06] Gov't reacts to Damanaki claim of 'selective' renewal of contracts at culture ministry

[07] Government spokesman says PASOK leader must dismiss associate for grave mistake

[08] PM instructs ministers to best exploit Olympic venues, facilities

[09] Turkish PM Meets European Parliament group leaders

[10] EU Commission publishes updated figures for Greek economy

[11] EU report released on Greek employment rates

[12] General Confederation of Workers of Greece demands that new EU directive be rejected

[13] Greek government submits draft law on National Competitiveness Council

[14] Greek Tourism Minister on official visit to Syria

[15] Olympic Airways announces extra services between Athens and Istanbul

[16] Hellenic Bank Association proposes the creation of a Balkan Banking Forum

[17] Israeli gov't awards Greek and Israeli entrepreneurs

[18] Stocks level for second consecutive day

[19] ATHOC leadership rejects auditors' critical report

[20] Sprinters Kenteris, Thanou to give additional testimony in doping probe as suspects

[21] High Court prosecutor recommends against Thrace group's appeal to use 'Turkish' in organisation name

[22] Mobile radioactivity detectors to still be used after Paralympics

[23] Greek writer Dido Sotiriou dies aged 95

[24] Court verdict in ELA terrorism trial to be announced on October 6

[25] President Papadopoulos calls on Turkey to mutually turn page

[26] Cypriot President and UN chief review developments in Cyprus

[01] US Secretary of State Powell's visit to Athens postponed

NEW YORK 24/9/2004 (ANA/P.Panayiotou)

"We both agreed that our discussion was comprehensive and that there is now no need for a visit," Molyviatis said, adding that "it is still an open issue and we will agree on mutually convenient dates at a later stage."

The Greek foreign minister emphasized that the meeting was very pleasant and useful, the mood was sincere and friendly and that they reviewed bilateral relations, concluding that they are at a very good level.

Aside from bilateral relations, Molyviatis and Powell also discussed Turkey's EU prospects, the Balkans, the Middle East and Iraq.

"Fighting international terrorism has become the most pressing task among our priorities," Greek Foreign Minister Petros Molyviatis said in his address during the 59th Session of the UN General Assembly at UN headquarters on Thursday, making reference to the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11 in New York, to the Madrid bombing and to the most recent, horrific act in Beslan.

"In this fight we must prevail," he added, but highlighted many other serious challenges facing the world today: weapons of mass destruction, human trafficking, organized crime, failing states, environmental catastrophes, social and economic crises, hunger and poverty, and others.

"Last year, the Secretary-General announced the creation of the High Level Panel of eminent persons to assess these new threats and challenges and to suggest ways to deal with them, including through reform of the multilateral international system. We fully support these efforts. We are eager to contribute constructively, to the best of our abilities, towards making the United Nations as effective as possible for the 21st Century," Molyviatis said, adding that "multilateral cooperation is the safest way to a better world."

Speaking on the issue of poverty, Molyviatis said, "Persisting poverty cheats nations out of progress and provides breeding ground for both internal and regional crises. Four years ago a landmark decision was taken to embark upon a long-term global evolution by adopting the Millennium Declaration. We committed ourselves to achieve the goals set by the year 2015. It would be a disgrace to mankind if we don't succeed to bring stable and sustainable development and eradicate hunger and poverty." Molyviatis made special reference to Africa and to the small island states, emphasizing that Greece has pledged to increase its development assistance.

"In the context of this effort, Greece welcomes the proposals to combat hunger and poverty by the President of Brazil, co-sponsored by France, Chile, Argentina and Spain," he continued.

The minister then touched on issues closer to home, such as development in the Balkans. "With the proactive support and involvement of the international community we are working hard to transform the Balkans in a region of democracy, peace, stability and prosperity, focused on a common European future," he stated.

Referring to Greek-Turkish relations, Molyviatis said, "In recent years, the climate of our bilateral relations with Turkey has been constantly improving. Both the Greek and Turkish governments have undertaken sincere efforts to set bilateral relations on a new track." He also said that Greece supports Turkey's European perspective.

Cyprus was next in Molyviatis' speech, for which he said that, "reunification remains our unwavering goal through a mutually agreed lasting, fair and functional settlement, based on the relevant Security Council Resolutions and UNSG's plan and compatible with the acquis communautaire and the EU principles." While Greek Cypriots rejected "a specific version of the Annan Plan" in the April referendum, they still desire a reunified island.

Molyviatis called on the international community to contribute in this direction "by keeping 'the window for a solution' open and avoid any action which could lead to the deepening of a division of the island or could fail to provide incentives for its reunification."

In terms of establishing peace in the Middle East, Molyviatis said that the Greek government "is convinced that only the implementation of the Road Map can lead to the two-state solution, which is Israel and Palestine, coexisting in peace and security."

As for the ongoing situation in Iraq, the Greek foreign minister said, "we are deeply committed to the territorial integrity and unity of the country in a federal system" and expressed serious concerns over the ongoing violence.

In closing, Molyviatis asked for the Assembly's support in the upcoming election for non-permanent members of the Security Council for the period 2005-2006, for which Greece is a candidate. He also thanked the members of the Western European and Others Group who supported Greece's nomination.

[02] FM Molyviatis says no anti-Americanism in Greece against the U.S. and its citizens

NEW YORK 24/9/2004 (ANA)

Replying to a question on anti-Americanism in Greece, Molyviatis distinguished the term from opposition to specific decisions by American governments.

The foreign minister further said he never met anyone who did not respect the American people and their culture, as well as American values and traditions.

Referring to the political identity of the ruling New Democracy party in Greece, Molyviatis said it can be characterized as a "centrist" one, which follows a "consensual policy and looks forward to the free market economy but, however, with a human character."

The foreign minister, commenting on the issue of terrorism, referred to the international community's unanimous condemnation of such phenomena and stressed the need for detecting the causes of the problem, the elimination of poverty, inadequate education and social despair which the terrorists use as an excuse for their actions.

"I do not believe in a conflict of civilizations and religions. I believe that terrorism has nothing to do with religions and despite the fact that Islam is used as a pretext by terrorists, it surely does not constitute the root of the problem," he said.

Molyviatis also noted that Greek-Turkish relations are experiencing their best period for a long period of time, which began about four years ago.

[03] Greek and FYROM FMs agree on speedup of dialogue on name problem

NEW YORK, 24/9/2004 (ANA/P. Panagiotou)

Foreign ministry spokesman George Koumoutsakos said the meeting was held in a "cordial climate."

Molyviatis also held a meeting with the UN's special mediator on the issue of FYROM's name, Matthew Nimetz, last Monday.

According to a relevant announcement, Mitreva hailed Greece's readiness to have dialogue on the name issue intensified, following the delay due to the Parliamentary elections in Greece (last March) and the holding of the Olympic Games.

"We are ready for the intensification of talks, in the framework of the United Nations and on the basis of our position declared in principle, which has been expressed publicly repeatedly," Mitreva said.

The two foreign ministers expressed their satisfaction over the future opening of Greece's consular, economic and trade affairs offices in the city of Bitola (Monastiri), as well as of FYROM's in Thessaloniki.

FYROM's foreign minister briefed her Greek counterpart during their meeting on the current situation prevailing in her country, placing emphasis on the referendum on the administrative charter to be held on November 7.

[04] Roussopoulos on Tsitouridis resignation, decision for fiscal audit

Athens, 24/9/2004 (ANA)

The spokesman also confirmed the truth of a statement by Economy and Finance Minister George Alogoskoufis during a parliamentary committee session on Wednesday regarding PASOK's failure to record the purchase of 45 Phantom aircraft in the budget.

Roussopoulos presented figures for a fiscal audit of the Greek economy carried out by Eurostat, which showed considerable divergence from earlier figures presented by PASOK governments.

"With regard to the public deficit, according to the previous figures this was at 2 per cent of GDP in 2000, while after the fiscal audit this was shown to be 4.1 per cent of GDP. Similarly, in 2003 it was presented as being 1.7 per cent of GDP when it actually stood at 4.6 per cent and in 2004 it was shown to be 1.2 per cent when the level was 5.3 per cent of GDP. Public debt was also shown in 2000 to stand at 106.2 per cent when it stood at 114 per cent of GDP, in 2003 it was presented at 102.4 per cent when it was at 109.9 per cent and in 2004 it was 97.7 per cent when it was at 112.1 per cent of GDP," he said.

According to the spokesman, the true size of the deficit was concealed by not recording spending for the armed forces or, alternatively, by artificially 'correcting' insurance fund surpluses. Correction of public debt was due to the fact that interest settlements were not recorded in the budget and that a public debt the size of 20.9 billion euros had been concealed, he added.

Asked why Alogoskoufis had not presented figures for the years before 2000, Roussopoulos said the aim of the fiscal audit was linked to the government's pledge for transparency and that he would ask the minister for further clarifications. He stressed, meanwhile, that the "creative accounting" that New Democracy had denounced was also recorded in the annual reports of the State Audit Council that had been vilified in Parliament by previous PASOK governments, which gave evidence and figures that were indisputable.

Gov't denies link between Tsitouridis resignation, Chinook affair: Responding to other questions, Roussopoulos denied any link between the Chinook helicopter crash and the resignation on Wednesday of Agriculture Minister Savvas Tsitouridis.

According to the reporter, the government had been obliged to accept the agriculture minister's resignation because it had chosen not to accept the resignation of Defense Minister Spilios Spiliotopoulos after the fatal VIP flight crashed, killing Alexandria Patriarch Petros VII and 16 other people on board.

"The two issues are in no way connected. In the Chinook affair state mechanisms were remiss and for this reason the resignation of the head of the Air Force was demanded," Roussopoulos clarified. He noted that in Tsitouridis' case, his resignation was accepted because "the impression had been created that a minister had received favorable treatment."

Tsitouridis resigned for reasons of "political sensitivity" after it was revealed in Parliament that his son had secured a transfer from the university of Crete to the more prestigious Panteion University in Athens for 'security reasons' related to the Olympics and his father's position in the government.

Bassiakos sworn in as Agriculture minister, replacing resigned Tsitouridis: Evangelos Bassiakos was sworn in Thursday as the new minister of agricultural development and foodstuffs, following the resignation of Savvas Tsitouridis Wednesday night.

Bassiakos, who served as deputy minister to Tsitouridis, was sworn in by President of the Republic Costis Stephanopoulos.

[05] PM satisfied with ministers' work, gov't spokesman stresses

Athens, 24/9/2004 (ANA)

"The government's work began on the day after the elections, the government completed the Olympic works that had been abandoned, while recently [resigned agriculture minister Savvas] Tsitouridis carried out important political action. The prime minister is governing this country in the right way and differently from the previous government and is satisfied with the work of the ministers and the strategic plans developed by each individual ministry. But, as is the case in life, the better is the enemy of the good," Roussopoulos said.

[06] Gov't reacts to Damanaki claim of 'selective' renewal of contracts at culture ministry

Athens, 24/9/2004 (ANA)

"We say that trade unionists should be free to propose and demand, the question is how the State responds. Prime Minister [Costas Karamanlis] has often referred to our principles and has proved they are not just political slogans but political actions," Roussopoulos said.

He was commenting on an issue raised in Parliament earlier in the day by PASOK MP Maria Damanaki regarding allegations of selective renewal of contracts of culture ministry staff. Damanaki had referred to a document allegedly compiled by the culture ministry's DAKE trade union grouping, which is affiliated to the New Democracy party, which contained a list of culture ministry contract workers that were proposed for selective renewal of their contracts.

The MP said the document constituted intervention in state mechanisms and said that the employees whose contracts were renewed would also possibly acquire rights for permanent jobs.

[07] Government spokesman says PASOK leader must dismiss associate for grave mistake

Athens, 24/9/2004 (ANA)

"Mr. Papandreou must dismiss his close associate Spyros Vouyias who made a grave mistake," Roussopoulos said.

"The excuses he uttered that the children of university professors are entitled to transcription are untrue. No law anticipates such a thing. If a law does exist let him produce it. Otherwise, let him resign," he added.

On Wednesday, Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis accepted the resignation of Agriculture Minister Savvas Tsitouridis after it was revealed that his son received privileged treatment in being granted a transcription to an Athens University from Crete.

[08] PM instructs ministers to best exploit Olympic venues, facilities

Athens, 24/9/2004 (ANA)

The government wants to accelerate procedures for putting the often costly venues and equipment to good use, thereby avoiding maintenance problems or theft of equipment.

One of the decisions taken was to keep venues and facilities under police guard after the Paralympics end.

According to reports, 90 percent of the Olympic venues will be managed by the state-controlled Olympic Properties S.A. Remaining facilities were already built before preparations for the 2004 Games began in the late 1990s.

The ministers of national economy and public works along with the alternate culture minister and the head of the Olympic Properties S.A. met with the premier.

[09] Turkish PM Meets European Parliament group leaders

BRUSSELS 24/9/2004 (ANA/A. Simatos)

The statement was communicated to Greek reporters in the Belgian capital by main opposition PASOK party Eurodeputy Panagiotis Beglitis, who participated in the meeting in his capacity as vice president of the Joint EU-Turkey Parliamentary Committee.

Speaking at a press conference immediately after the meeting, the Turkish prime minister said that Turkey, with the programme of reforms it has promoted, fulfils the Copenhagen criteria and, consequently, there is no reason why negotiations for its accession to the EU should not begin.

Beglitis said that during the meeting Erdogan made a historical account of relations between his country and the EU from 1962 until now and enumerated reforms promoted by the Turkish government in past years.

Erdogan also attempted to highlight benefits the EU will have as a result of Turkey's accession. He said that in this way the EU will have an outlet to the Middle East, the Persian Gulf and the Caucasus, while also noting economic benefits to be derived from Turkey's huge market.

Meanwhile, the head of the ruling New Democracy party's Eurodeputies, Yiannis Varvitsiotis, said during a conference organised here by the European People's Party on Turkey's European prospects that Turkey's European course constitutes a strategic option for Greece.

Varvitsiotis said Greece is not ignoring scepticism developing on the multiple and multilevel consequences of Turkey's accession.

"We recognise and jointly consider the economic, social and even the cultural parameters of the undertaking in general. In addition, we realise and participate in the overall problem regarding the shaping of the future correlation of forces inside the EU, in the light of the European constitution's provisions," he said.

[10] EU Commission publishes updated figures for Greek economy

Athens, 24/9/2004 (ANA)

The EU executive, in its report, said the EU-15 average fiscal deficit was 2.7 percent of GDP in 2003, while average public debt totalled 70.7 percent of community GDP.

Greek fiscal deficit figures were revised to 4.6 percent of GDP in 2003, 3.7 percent in 2002, 3.7 percent in 2001 and 4.1 percent in 2000, while the country's public debt totalled 109.9 percent of GDP in 2003, 112.5 percent in 2002, 114.7 percent in 2001 and 114 percent in 2000.

The updated figures for Greece were based in a fiscal audit report made by both the Greek government and Eurostat's officials in the previous months.

In its announcement, Eurostat noted the revision of data for the deficit was carried out on the basis of new information provided by the Greek authorities, at the request of Eurostat for the period 2000-2003. The change in the deficit figure is mainly due to: -a downward revision for 2003 of estimate of tax revenues (mainly VAT) in public accounts, -a downward revision for 2003 of payments received from EU institutions, -a reclassification for 2003 of a payment from the postal savings bank to government, -an under-recording of military expenditures between 2000 and 2003, -an over-estimation of surplus of social security funds between 2001 and 2003, -an under-recording of interest between 2000 and 2003.

The revision of data for the debt was due mainly to: -an under-estimation of outstanding debt, notably in relation to bonds with capitalised interest, -an over-estimation of consolidating assets of social security.

EU Commission expresses "real concern" over Greek revised fiscal data: EU Monetary Affairs Commissioner Joachim Almunia on Thursday expressed the Commission's "real concern" over the revised figures of Greece's fiscal deficit and public debt levels.

Speaking to reporters, after Eurostat published its updated figures for the Greek economy, Almunia said: "The revised figures for Greece are causing a real concern to the Commission. According to a September 10-11 ECOFIN announcement, the Commission reiterates that the collection and information on budget figures are of significant importance to the credibility of budget supervision. Eurostat has repeatedly questioned the quality of Greek figures in the past and these new information justify this insistence. Eurostat will examine all possible consequences of these updated figures for the years before 2000. For this reason a Eurostat delegation will be send to Greece, while Eurostat will also examine the possibility of enacting excessive deficit procedures against Greece. In the architecture of Economic and Monetary Union (EMU), statistic figures are and will remain -under an EU Constitution- a responsibility of EU member-states. That's why it is important to strengthen the independence and credibility of national statistics institutes in member-states in the future. The Commission is expected to submit proposals on the issue soon".

Former PASOK economy ministers say new indicators publicised by Eurostat reproduce unilateral data revision: Former PASOK party economy ministers Yiannos Papantoniou and Nikos Christodoulakis, referring in a joint statement on Thursday on new indicators publicised by the European Union's Eurostat statistical service for the period between 2000 and 2004, said the new indicators publicised by the statistical service reproduce the unilateral revision of data carried out by the government of the New Democracy party, without anyone knowing so far the process followed to be in a position to check and substantiate it.

"ECOFIN warned a few days ago that statistical data must not become a toy for election circles. We believe that in this spirit Eurostat must request full substantiation of changes, guarantee the continuation of the method approved until now and evaluate all views," the announcement said.

"The fiscal history of every country cannot be rewritten with motives of political animosity and lead to the artificial marring of the past and the equally artificial beautification of years to come. Such acts are aimed at stigmatising the period of management by PASOK governments and to artificially alleviate deficits in the future so that ND, at no cost, can boast of its own supposed effectiveness. In addition, they provide the government with the necessary alibi to annul deceitful election commitments on great increases in pensions and social grants," it added.

Referring to 2004, the two former ministers stressed in their statement that "the deficit has swelled as a result of the dramatic decrease in revenues, the uncontrolled excess in expenditures and the government's inexplicable decision to pay the entire cost of Olympic Games projects this year, instead of separating part of it for the next year as well."

[11] EU report released on Greek employment rates

Athens, 24/9/2004 (ANA)

According to the report, the only countries with lower employment rates than Greece were Poland with 51.2 per cent, Malta with 54.5 per cent, Italy with 56.1 per cent and Hungary with 57 per cent. The highest employment rates were in Denmark with 75.1 per cent and Holland with 73.5 per cent. The average employment rate among the EU 15 was 64.3 per cent and 62.9 per cent among the EU 25.

The employment rate for women in Greece in 2003 was 43.9 per cent, compared to 56 per cent in the EU 15 and 55 per cent in the EU 25. For those aged between 15-64, with a primary education or less, the employment rate was 45.9 per cent (compared to 36.9 per cent in the "15" and 34.8 per cent in the "25"). For those with secondary education, the employment rate was 38.8 per cent (compared to 43.2 per cent in the "15" and 46.7 per cent in the "25"). The employment rate for those with a higher education was 15.3 per cent (compared with 19.8 per cent in the "15" and 18.5 per cent in the "25").

Finally, 8.7 per cent of those employed in Greece work in agriculture, 12.9 per cent in industry and 36.3 per cent in services.

[12] General Confederation of Workers of Greece demands that new EU directive be rejected

Athens, 24/9/2004 (ANA)

According to the Confederation, this means that if the controversial Directive is enforced, the average working week of 48 hours can be increased up to 65 hours, further giving employers the right to set individual employee's working hours.

According to the Confederation, the Directive facilitates employer's objectives, allowing them to extend working hours, but weakens employees' rights and the trade union movement.

[13] Greek government submits draft law on National Competitiveness Council

Athens, 24/9/2004 (ANA)

Under the draft law, the government plans the creation of a Competitiveness Promotion directorate with the ministry's competitiveness secretariat and declares 2005 as a "Year of Competitiveness". It also envisages creation of an Academy on Entrepreneurship and a European Development Institute.

The new legislation also provides that project contracts, funded by a Third Community Support Framework programme that have not yet received legally approved, to be inspected by an Audit Council within 10 days after the implementation of the new law or else the contract will be declared annulled.

[14] Greek Tourism Minister on official visit to Syria

Athens, 24/9/2004 (ANA)

Avramopoulos will meet with state and political leaders, including the Prime Minister of the Araba Republic of Syria Mohammad Naji Otri and the Patriarch of Antioch and All East Ignatios.

The meetings with focus on bilateral issues and in particular ways to further develop touristic cooperation between the two countries, in the framework of an expansion policy of Greek tourism in the world tourism market. The Greek minister is expected to sign a memorandum of cooperation with his counterpart Saadallah Agha Al Kalaa. Avramopoulos will be accompanied by the president of Hellenic Tourism Organisation and other ministry officials.

The Greek minister met with visiting chairman of TUI (the biggest European tour operator), Michael Frentzel in Rethymno, Crete on Wednesday. The meeting, including representatives of tour operators from all over Europe, discussed Greek tourism in general and the government's goals for the next few months.

[15] Olympic Airways announces extra services between Athens and Istanbul

Athens, 24/9/2004 (ANA)

According to a statement made by Olympic Airways, it has added the service for the convenience of business people who will now be able to visit Istanbul in the morning and return in the evening.

[16] Hellenic Bank Association proposes the creation of a Balkan Banking Forum

Athens, 24/9/2004 (ANA)

During the meeting which took place in Istanbul, Christos Gortsos, General Secretary of the Hellenic Bank Association, spoke extensively on recent EU developments regarding the operation and control of the banking system, financial markets and methods of payment. A member of the Turkish Bank Association spoke on the development of the Turkish banking system and how it is preparing to meet the new requirements of the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision (Basel 11) regarding capitalisation.

Other topics discussed at the meeting included banking information systems, electronic payment methods and the exchange of training courses.

[17] Israeli gov't awards Greek and Israeli entrepreneurs

Athens, 24/9/2004 (ANA)

Greek government officials, Athens 2004 executives and members of the Greek and Israeli business community were present.

Deputy Development Minister Yiannis Papathanassiou described the cooperation between Greek and Israeli companies as "excellent" during the Athens Olympics and expressed pride with the successful staging of the Games. He said that it was up to the private sector to further develop bilateral commercial relations, but indicated that authorities can help to create a positive environment for entrepreneurs to learn of the business potential.

Aviram said that the Olympic Games provided an added boost for Greek-Israeli commercial relations, and emphasised that the Greek and Israeli companies that collaborated on occasion of the Athens Olympics delivered high-quality products and services.

Products and services resulting from the Greek-Israeli collaboration totalled $220 million and involved the following sectors: security, telecommunications, the environment and construction.

Trade between the two countries during 2003 amounted to $375 million - a 28% increase over 2002.

Israel is the number 1 destination for Greek exports in the Middle East, while Greece ranks eighth among EU countries importing Israeli products.

[18] Stocks level for second consecutive day

Athens, 24/9/2004 (ANA)

The Athens general share index closed at 2,357.99 points, showing a decline of 0.18 percent. Turnover was 104.2 million euros.

The FTSE/ASE-20 index for high capitalisation shares ended 0.04 percent down; the FTSE/ASE-40 for medium cap stocks closed 0.63 percent lower; and the FTSE/ASE-80 for small cap shares finished 0.50 percent down.

Of stocks traded, declines led advances at 189 to 78 with 84 remaining unchanged.

[19] ATHOC leadership rejects auditors' critical report

Athens, 24/9/2004 (ANA)

She also said that the two auditors -- out of a total of three on the council -- who cited improprieties in ATHOC's finances for fiscal 2001 are retired judges, whereas the third member -- who tabled a minority opinion -- is an active justice.

"All of our actions were taken within a strict framework of legality, and for the first time in Olympic Games history both the national and EU legislation was adhered to ... we brought to fruition an extremely difficult project within asphyxiating deadlines," she told a press conference held at ATHOC's Nea Ionia headquarters.

On his part, ATHOC Managing Director Yiannis Spanudakis said the entire legal framework with which ATHOC operated was approved by the government council, whereas all contracts worth more than 500 million drachmas (340.75 drachmas equal one euro) were submitted to the special three-member auditing council. He added that the total figure for assignments by ATHOC reached the 800-million-euro mark.

Finally, Spanudakis said every sponsorship deal related to the 2004 Athens Games was signed prior to their start, whereas out of a total of 34 sponsors some 578 million euros were collected from international sponsors and 300 million from Greek-based sponsors.

A report on ATHOC's finances was recently conveyed to Parliament, although ATHOC has declined to make it public, citing protection of "personal data and sensitive information."

[20] Sprinters Kenteris, Thanou to give additional testimony in doping probe as suspects

Athens, 24/9/2004 (ANA)

Kenteris and Thanou, who are accused of obstructing an anti-doping control test and filing false charges, asked and received an extension until Monday to prepare their testimony.

The charges against them relate to a missed doping test the two athletes were called to take on August 12 and their subsequent claim that they were involved in a motorbike accident, which authorities have been unable to confirm.

According to the defence lawyer for the two athletes, Mihalis Dimitrakopoulos, the charges are legally unsound and were not backed by the evidence.

With respect to obstruction of doping tests, he stressed that this was an administrative rather than penal offence and could not be supported, since the athletes had not avoided a doping test.

For the offence of filing false charges, Dimitrakopoulos said that this would only stand if the statement was made before an official authority, whereas the athletes had made the claim in hospital, which was not an official authority, and the police had subsequently initiated an investigation on their own initiative.

The lawyer also said that the doctors who had kept the athletes in KAT hospital and had since been called to appear before the public prosecutors as suspects for giving a false medical opinion could not all have conspired together and were simply doing their duty.

In a statement to reporters, Katerina Thanou said she had "the love of the public" and that she had chosen the route of silence, while she stressed that a number of press reports were telling the truth about what happened. Kenteris avoided making statements as he emerged from the prosecutors' office.

According to sources, the two athletes do not intend to appear before the public prosecutors in person on Monday but will testify through memorandums submitted by their lawyers.

The investigation into the two athletes was initiated after they went missing from the Olympic Village on August 12 and failed to show up for an IOC-mandated doping test that, according to the public prosecutors, they knew they had been called to take. The pair turned up at KAT hospital later the same night as the apparent victims of a motorcycle accident that occurred in highly suspicious circumstances, where they were admitted as patients and stayed until August 17.

The affair caused an uproar leading up to the Athens Olympics that kicked off on August 13, given that it involved two of Greece's strongest hopes for Olympic medals. Kenteris had won the gold in the men's 200m in Sydney, while Thanou had won silver. Public opinion was further angered by revelations that their coach was heavily implicated in doping-related scandals. The pair was called before an IOC Disciplinary Commission on their release from hospital to explain their no-show for the doping test, where they voluntarily surrendered their accreditation and withdrew from the 2004 Olympics.

[21] High Court prosecutor recommends against Thrace group's appeal to use 'Turkish' in organisation name

Athens, 24/9/2004 (ANA)

In justifying his recommendation, the high court prosecutor pointed directly to the 1923 Lausanne Treaty, saying the term "Turkish" in the group's name attempts to "show the existence in Greece (western Thrace region) of a national Turkish minority, whereas the treaties allow only for the recognition of a religious, Muslim minority on Greek territory."

Prosecutor Dimitris Linos also wrote in his legal opinion that the reference to a "Turkish identity" does not refer to the notion of an ulterior Turkish descent, "but to their present status as members of an existing, in Greece, Turkish minority, which wants to promote, within the boundaries of Greek sovereignty, the state-backed objectives of another state, and specifically Turkey..."

Additionally, Linos notes that with its actions, the group "deeply insults Greek public order and national security..."

At one point, the charter of the group notes that the latter's purpose is to "work in favour of the spiritual, physical and psychological well-being of the Turks of western Thrace..." among others.

[22] Mobile radioactivity detectors to still be used after Paralympics

Athens, 24/9/2004 (ANA)

The detectors are part of a 50 million dollar package of material donated to Greece by the U.S., under the auspices of the International Atomic Energy Agency.

President of the Greek Atomic Energy Commission, Leonidas Kamarinopoulos, made a number of statements on Thursday on the occasion of a visit by a team of leading U.S. experts to the Demokritos Research Institute. The U.S. delegation was headed by Under-Secretary for Energy, Paul Longsworth.

The Greek plan for radioactive security includes: - The installation of radioactivity detectors at five main entry points to Greece, including the airport at Spata and the port of Piraeus. - The up-grading of the protection system of the research reactor at Demokritos as well as at a further 22 points (including hospitals and industrial facilities).

Mr Longsworth thanked the Greek side for its co-operation and noted that the facilities and equipment installed in Greece before the Olympic Games will continue to provide protection against terrorist attacks involving radioactivity after the Paralympics. Mr Longsworth went on to clarify that the reason the detectors were installed in Greece is not because it is considered a centre for the distribution of radioactive material, but that similar installations have taken place in other European countries, especially those with major ports.

[23] Greek writer Dido Sotiriou dies aged 95

Athens, 24/9/2004 (ANA)

Born in Aidini, in Asia Minor in 1909, Sotiriou was strongly politicised and carried out great struggles for the social emancipation of women.

The disaster in Asia Minor in 1922 and the post-civil war era in Greece left an indelible mark on her.

The book which highlighted her work in Greek literature was "The Bloodied Land" which was published in 1962, 40 years after the Asia Minor disaster, and was translated into six languages.

According to book critic Vangelis Kassos, Sotiriou could be called "the novelist of national disasters."

Novels by her were published in newspapers and magazines. Some of them are "The dead are waiting" (1959), "Electra" (1961), "Visitors" (1976) and her last one "We are being demolished" (1982).

Sotiriou's funeral will take place at the Zografou cemetery in Athens on Monday.

"Dido Sotiriou, one of the most important writers of our time, wrote that which she experienced, with modesty and social sensitivity. With her unique tone and in close contact with the creativity of European innovation, she dealt with difficult chapters of modern Greek history with warmth," Prime Minister and Culture Minister Kostas Karamanlis expressed in his note of condolences, expressing his sincere sympathies to the author's family.

[24] Court verdict in ELA terrorism trial to be announced on October 6

A verdict in the case of five suspected terrorists, accused of crimes connected to the urban guerrilla group Revolutionary Popular Struggle (ELA), is expected to be issued by the Three-Member Criminal Appeals Court on October 6.

After the defence lawyers in the case concluded their final arguments on Thursday, the court was adjourned so that the judges could deliberate.

[25] President Papadopoulos calls on Turkey to mutually turn page

NICOSIA, 24/9/2004 (CNA/ANA)

Addressing the UN General Assembly in New York, President Papadopoulos said the new context defined by Cyprus' accession to the EU and the expressed will of Turkey to join the Union ''offers a unique opportunity and could have a catalytic effect in reaching a settlement in Cyprus,'' adding that ''our vocation is to be partners and not enemies.''

President Papadopoulos pointed out that the Greek Cypriot side ''has repeatedly demonstrated in the past thirty years its readiness to move forward by making many painful sacrifices and concessions, while the Turkish Cypriot leadership always lacked the necessary political will.''

''The quest and eagerness of Greek Cypriots for a solution never meant, however, that they would accept any settlement proposed to them nor that they would be ready to embark on an adventure, in all probability condemned to failing, with irreversible consequences,'' he noted.

Referring to the solution plan proposed by UN Secretary General Kofi Annan and its rejection by the Greek Cypriot community in the April 24 referendum, President Papadopoulos said the plan ''was not the product of negotiation nor did it constitute an agreed solution between the parties.''

He added that the plan ''did not place the necessary emphasis on achieving a one state solution with a central government able to guarantee the single sovereign character of Cyprus, and it failed to address the serious concerns of the Greek Cypriot community regarding their security and effective implementation of the plan.''

''In rejecting the plan as a settlement for the Cyprus problem the Greek Cypriots did not reject the solution or the reunification of their country. They have rejected this particular plan as not effectively achieving this objective. We remain committed to a solution, which will ensure the reunification of the country, its economy, and its people,'' he pointed out.

He said the solution should be based on essential parameters, such as ''the withdrawal of troops and settlers and the respect of human rights for all Cypriots, the underlying structures for a functioning economy, the functionality and workability of the new state of affairs, the just resolution of land and property issues in accordance with the decisions of the European Court of Human Rights, and the respect of the right of return of refugees.''

President Papadopoulos added that ''certain provisions of the Annan plan have encouraged an unprecedented unlawful exploitation of occupied properties in northern Cyprus; something alluded to even in statements by officials of the occupying power itself.''

''In the framework of the EU, and with the aim of promoting reunification and reconciliation, my government, despite the obstacles placed by the current status quo, is consistently pursuing policies aiming to enhance the economic development of the Turkish Cypriots,'' he said.

He pointed out that ''while not intended to serve as a substitute for a solution, such policies are in our view the most effective way to foster the maximum economic integration of the two communities, and increase contact between them, so as to ensure the viability of a future solution.''

The president noted that ''the Cyprus problem is not always perceived in its correct parameters,'' adding that ''the fact remains that this problem is the result of a military invasion and continued occupation of part of the territory of a sovereign state.''

''This fact should not be conveniently overlooked in people's perception, by concentrating on peripheral parameters. Any initiative to solve the problem must have at its core this most basic and fundamental fact and be based on the premise that international legality must be served and the occupation lifted,'' he said.

He added that the issues of missing persons and persons enclaved in the Turkish occupied areas of the Republic ''are in themselves an indication of Cyprus' enduring suffering'' and noted that ''this should not only point towards the specifics of the solution to be pursued but must also guide our actions with regard to managing the current status quo.''

The president also noted that ''the accession of Cyprus to the EU, in conjunction with the lack of an agreement on the settlement of the Cyprus problem, in spite of our efforts and our preference for a settlement prior to accession, signifies the end of an era and the beginning of a new one.''

''I firmly believe that the new context defined by the accession of my country to the EU and by the expressed will of Turkey to advance on the European path offers a unique opportunity and could have a catalytic effect in reaching a settlement in Cyprus. Our vocation is to be partners and not enemies,'' he said.

President Papadopoulos added that ''hence, in this new era, we plea to Turkey, to join us in turning the page and seeking ways to mutually discover, mutually beneficial solutions to the various aspects that compose the Cyprus problem.''

Referring to the Middle East question, President Papadopoulos said that ''so long as violence remains a vivid reality in the region it will not be possible to create those conditions under which peace building can be accomplished.''

He added that Cyprus continues to support ''the end of the occupation and a just and viable settlement, based on UN Resolutions and for the realization of the aspirations of the Palestinian people for the establishment of an independent state, living side by side with Israel, in conditions of sustainable peace and security.''

[26] Cypriot President and UN chief review developments in Cyprus

UNITED NATIONS, 24/9/2004 (CNA/ANA)

After the 15-minute meeting, President Papadopoulos told reporters that ''we will think of ideas in order to make moves towards progress.''

He clarified that there were no new ideas of how to solve the Cyprus problem. ''Now we will think of ideas for moves towards progress,'' he said.

On the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, which he addressed on Thursday, President Papadopoulos had a short non-scheduled meeting with British Foreign Secretary Jack Straw. Diplomatic sources described the meeting ''interesting.''

According to senior government sources, President Papadopoulos has accepted a request by U.S. Under Secretary of State for political affairs Marc Grossman, whom he will receive on Friday.

''We reviewed the present situation of the Cyprus problem, there was an exchange of thoughts, some moves of progress. I also discussed the various UN missions to the region, some of which are in Cyprus, assuring of our willingness to provide any assistance to the UN efforts and to host these missions,'' the president said in his statements after his meeting with Annan.

He added that they talked about the issue of missing persons and persons enclaved in the Turkish occupied areas of the Republic, and said he ''expressed hope that we will have his help for the positive outcome of these two issues.''

President Papadopoulos said the meeting was short and did not provide the opportunity to discuss any issue in depth, adding that ''we will continue to meet.''

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