Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English, 05-05-13

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

CONTENTS

[01] PM Karamanlis optimistic on future of education after visit to ministry

[02] Opposition parties criticize PM's visit to education ministry

[03] Greek gov't to comply with Court's ruling on OA, ministry says

[04] Amendment postponing 'primary shareholder' law to be tabled within days, gov't says

[05] Government stresses respect for 'internal operation' of Jerusalem Patriarchate

[06] Ruling ND leading main opposition PASOK by 4.5 percentage points, latest VPRC opinion poll shows

[07] PM discusses current issues with ND honorary president, address Parliament on Friday

[08] Public order minister and Pakistani interior minister discuss quadripartite conference on illegal immigration

[09] Parliament rejects proposal for referendum on European Constitution

[10] Cyprus president to send emissary to UN for 'exploratory consultations'

[11] Public prosecutor launches probe into police actions at Polytechnic, student's injury

[12] KKE leader Papariga calls for parliamentary debate on the rights of working women

[13] Greek ambassador to Sofia receives Bulgarian students for discussion on their country's EU accession

[14] Turkish mayor of Dikeli apologizes for behavior of 'Grey Wolves' at Pergamos

[15] Greece, Commission continue talks over EU funds

[16] Gov't unveils draft law on joint projects between public and private sectors

[17] Gov't denies following austerity policy

[18] Greek industrial production down 4.9 pct in March, yr/yr

[19] Athens Olympics organizers end with surplus of 7.0 million euros

[20] MARMIN trade fair opens its gates to the public

[21] Greek minister rules out "wave of price increases" in the country

[22] Deputy development minister makes account of government's energy sector work

[23] Finmin wants to boost exports

[24] Export managers' forum to be held in Athens

[25] Deputy Tourism Minister Liaskos to visit Japan from May 16-23

[26] Greek mobile telephony operators say no danger from antennas

[27] Report finds geographic imbalances in education

[28] Basiakos satisfied with proposal of European Court's public prosecutor on 'feta' cheese

[29] Former opposition finmin sees need for economic reform

[30] Greece's first satellite reaches nearly 50% of capacity

[31] Merchant marine ministry fines owner of ferry 'Aegean Sun' 5,200,000 euros

[32] Stocks rise in across-the-board buying

[33] President Papoulias to visit Monument in Chios on Sunday

[34] Foreign ministry has provided two million euros in food aid for tsounami victims

[35] Event to be held marking the 100th anniversary of the operation of the ANA

[36] Jailed former archimandrite to be tried for fraud, illegal property sales

[37] Former Parliamentary deputies to receive professional rehabilitation bonus

[38] Prince Charles on pilgrimage to Mount Athos

[39] 13 illegal immigrants arrested in Samos

[40] EU ready to play proactive role for Cyprus settlement, Commissioner Rehn says

[41] Cyprus President reiterates positions to EU Commissioner

[42] China supports peaceful settlement of Cyprus problem

[01] PM Karamanlis optimistic on future of education after visit to ministry

Athens, 13/5/2005 (ANA)

He said his talks focused on the course of the education sector, noting that substantial work had been done by the ministry but adding that much more also remained to be done.

Karamanlis outlined the work accomplished and changes made, stressing that the government considered the dialogue on education a national cause -- contrary to the preceding PASOK government that introduced changes unilaterally, without prior dialogue -- and that was why it had invited all related institutions and agencies to take part in the dialogue, which he said would be continued.

He noted his government's institution of a system of ensuring the quality of tertiary education, the establishment of an international university headquartered in Thessaloniki, the resolution of issues concerning the technological educational institutions and the new structure of technical education.

The premier further announced the donation of 20,000 PCs to pupils attending schools for children with special needs, the donation of 30,000 PCs to other schools, and of 5,500 PCs to the top pupils in junior high school (7th-9th grade).

Education was a top priority for the government, as was investing in knowledge and the young generation in general, he said.

"We are satisfied with the steps taken thus far," the premier said, adding, however that "we still have a long road ahead of us, but we are optimistic".

[02] Opposition parties criticize PM's visit to education ministry

Athens, 13/5/2005 (ANA)

"During his visit to the education ministry today, Mr. Karamanlis monotonously and without arguments reiterated once again that education constitutes the top priority of his government. Priorities, however, are judged in practice. And ND already has a past," said the main opposition PASOK party's Education and Culture chief Maria Damanaki.

In a similar statement, the Greek Communist Party's (KKE) press office said "the prime minister's visit to the education ministry is not due to his interest in the education of young people. Its purpose was to speed up the rate of education's adjustment to the economic and ideological and political demands of big capital."

[03] Greek gov't to comply with Court's ruling on OA, ministry says

Athens, 13/5/2005 (ANA)

A ministry announcement said that Greece did not appeal against the Commission's decision - the EU's executive had estimated state aid to Olympic Airways at around 153 million euros - leaving the door open to the Commission to seek a legal opinion on the issue. Under Thursday's court ruling, the Greek state must seek recovery of aid given to the country's national carrier.

The announcement stressed that the government would take all necessary actions to comply with the court's ruling, taking in mind the interests and rights of Olympic Airways' staff. The government would continue a process to sell Olympic Airlines, currently underway.

Meanwhile, the European Commission expressed its satisfaction over the Court's ruling. A spokesman for EU Transport Commissioner Jacques Barro said the Commission was satisfied with the outcome of the case and stressed the EU's executive now expected Greece to comply with the ruling. The spokesman noted that the Commission estimated state aid given to Olympic Airways to around 194 million euros.

Greek government spokesman Theodoros Roussopoulos blamed the outcome entirely on the "negligence" of the previous government. He also pointed out that huge sums had been spent on efforts to "reform" Olympic Airways and alleged that the Simitis government had tried "to mislead the Commission".

The spokesman pointed out that the present government had already held one tender for the airline's sale, which had been declared unsuccessful, and was in the process of preparing another.

"Olympic Airways was devalued as a company through mistakes and omissions of the previous government. A lot of money was squandered that could have helped our economy become more competitive," he said.

He also underlined that Thursday's ruling was actually a condemnation of the policies of Simitis' ministers, who now claimed to have been more adept at handling affairs on a European level.

Accusing PASOK of being a "latecomer" to privatization policy and of having gone about privatizations in the wrong way, the spokesman noted that the privatizations planned by the current government could not be completed in one day, though some of the government's efforts had already brought results, as in the case of photovoltaic power plants.

European Court rules against Greece for aid granted to Olympic Airways: The European Court of Justice on Thursday ruled that Greece did not take all necessary measures for repayment of aid granted to Olympic Airways which was found to be incompatible with the common market rules.

The Court said that the Hellenic Republic has failed to fulfill its obligations under the decision of the European Commission and that Greek authorities' initiatives were late, incomplete or without binding effect, as they did not result in the actual recovery of the sums owed by Olympic Airways. Those initiatives cannot be regarded as complying with the obligations of member states in relation to the recovery of state aid, the court said.

The Court declared that the European Commission's application was well founded and that, by failing to take within the prescribed period all the measures necessary for repayment of the aid found to be unlawful and incompatible with the common market, the Hellenic Republic has failed to fulfill its obligations under the decision of the Commission.

The Court of Justice found that the transfer of all the assets of the company Olympic Airways, free of all debts, to the new company Olympic Airlines created an obstacle to the effective implementation of the Commission's decision and the recovery of the aid. Regarding the recovery of 41 million euros, the Court noted that the action taken by the Greek authorities has not it fact resulted in any actual reimbursement of that amount. Furthermore, the Greek government has not shown why it might be absolutely impossible to proceed with recovery. Greece has therefore failed to fulfill its obligation to recovery that amount form the beneficiary company, the court said.

Commenting on the European Court of Justice's decision, Greek Economy ministry officials said the government's intention was to safeguard an international tender, currently underway, for the sale of Olympic Airlines.

[04] Amendment postponing 'primary shareholder' law to be tabled within days, gov't says

Athens, 13/5/2005 (ANA)

During that period, the existing law passed by the previous PASOK government will continue to remain in force, the spokesman said.

Both laws, which seek to prevent the mass media from influencing the way that public-sector contracts are awarded, have been judged incompatible with European directives and treaties by the European Commission, which has threatened to cut off EU funding in all cases where the law may have affected the outcome of tenders.

[05] Government stresses respect for 'internal operation' of Jerusalem Patriarchate

Athens, 13/5/2005 (ANA)

Foreign ministry spokesman George Koumoutsakos clarified, however, that the government had a duty to adopt a position on issues and developments concerning the Patriarchate's prestige, its Greek-Orthodox character and the unity of its congregation, given the way things had developed.

"The positions that have been expressed clearly indicate where Greece stands," he added.

With respect to the positions expressed by the governments of Jordan, Israel and the Palestinian Authority, Koumoutsakos noted that these were provided for under present laws.

"The positions of the Greek side are expressed in terms of giving an opinion for the record. They do not affect things nor are they a precursor of actions or interventions," he added.

According to the ANA correspondent in Jerusalem, meanwhile, the Holy Synod of the Jerusalem Patriarchate announced that its official spokesman for the media since a meeting last Friday will be Archbishop Constantine Aristarchos or a substitute appointed by him.

All other representatives expressed private opinions that were unrelated to the Patriarchate, the announcement stressed.

In Istanbul, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I said on Thursday that the report of the delegation sent by the Ecumenical Patriarchate to Jerusalem will be discussed at a Holy Synod meeting next Tuesday, at which time any decisions will be made.

Also present was Alexandria and All Africa Patriarch Theodoros, who stressed that the Alexandria Patriarchate and the Ecumenical Patriarchate shared the same views in matters concerning "our Church".

Holy Synod spokesman, referring to Jerusalem Patriarchate, says prolongation of crisis only pleases enemies of Orthodoxy: The Permanent Holy Synod discussed developments at the Patriarchate of Jerusalem on Thursday, while the Synod's spokesman, the Metropolitan of Syros Dorotheos, said "the prolongation of the crisis only pleases the enemies of Orthodoxy and injures the Holy body of the Church in a multiple way, discrediting it internationally."

Dorotheos added that the Church of Greece "a traditional and steadfast helper of the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem, is watching with spiritual pain and great concern events taking place in it and is praying for the speedy restoration of Ecclesiastical Order. However, it is not an umpire or a judge to intervene on its own accord in the crisis that has broken out."

He further said "the moments we are experiencing are crucial and historic", adding that the Church of Greece supports all the canonical and legal initiatives aimed at easing tension and exiting from the crisis.

[06] Ruling ND leading main opposition PASOK by 4.5 percentage points, latest VPRC opinion poll shows

Athens, 13/5/2005 (ANA)

More specifically, to a question on voter intent, ND amassed 43.5 percent of the respondents' preferences, compared with 39.0 percent for PASOK, 7.0 percent for the Communist Party of Greece (KKE), 4.0 percent for the Coalition of the Left, Movements, and Ecology, and 3.5 percent for the Popular Orthodox Rally (LAOS) party.

Regarding which party the respondents believed would win general elections of they were held now, ND amassed a 42 percentage point lead over PASOK, with 60 percent of respondents anticipating that ND would win the elections, against 18 percent who felt that PASOK would win.

Also, prime minister Costas Karamanlis was the most popular political leader, with 69 percent, followed by PASOK leader George Papandreou with 54 percent, SYN leader Alekos Alavanos with 48 percent, KKE leader Aleka Papariga with 46 percent, and LAOS leader George Karatzaferis with 36 percent.

To a question on who was the most qualified for prime minister, Karamanlis amassed the preference of 50 percent of the respondents, against 26 percent by Papandreou.

The opinion poll was conducted by VPRC through telephone interviews of a sampling of 1,016 voters throughout the country, on May 9 and 10.

Gov't welcomes outcome of VPRC poll: The Greek government on Thursday welcomed the results of a VPRC poll released the same day that showed ruling New Democracy's lead over main opposition PASOK rising to 4.5 points.

"Greek citizens appear to have understood that the government inherited grave and serious problems, for which it is trying to find solutions in the best possible way. We are certain that the citizens believe in this policy and are proving this once again," Roussopoulos said.

[07] PM discusses current issues with ND honorary president, address Parliament on Friday

Athens, 13/5/2005 (ANA)

Leaving the mansion at the end of the talks, Mitsotakis made no statement to reporters, but mentioned that he discussed all current issues with the prime minister.

On Friday morning, the premier will address Parliament during an off-the-agenda debate on foreign policy.

[08] Public order minister and Pakistani interior minister discuss quadripartite conference on illegal immigration

Athens, 13/5/2005 (ANA)

The meeting was held on Wednesday in the framework of the official visit Voulgarakis is making to the country.

The two ministers discussed issues of bilateral interest, while both countries showed interest in developing cooperation in the sector of combatting illegal immigration, drug trafficking, terrorism and organized crime.

The meeting was concluded with the signing of a bilateral agreement on police cooperation between Greece and Pakistan.

"We signed a bilateral cooperation agreement which signals our will to work together to create an environment of security, stability and development for our peoples," Voulgarakis said after the meeting and invited the Pakistani interior minister to visit Greece.

[09] Parliament rejects proposal for referendum on European Constitution

Athens, 13/5/2005 (ANA)

The basic argument of the ruling party for the rejection was that the Treaty does not constitute an overturn of the already existing European Union institutional framework, shaped with Treaties for which there was no referendum.

[10] Cyprus president to send emissary to UN for 'exploratory consultations'

Athens, 13/5/2005 (ANA)

The meetings were being held on the rationale that every prospective negotiations procedure for the achievement of a Cyprus solution must be very well planned and prepared, so as to avert a new failure, the spokesman added.

Koumoutsakos said that the well-known position held by Nicosia and Athens contained the firm volition for the achievement of a solution with specific characteristics, namely that it be viable, functional, in line with the resolutions and decisions of the UN, and in harmony with the EU's acquis communautaire, and the principles and values of the European Union, adding that both the Greek and Cypriot governments sought the reunification of the island republic on the basis of such a solution, and through negotiations based on the Annan Plan.

In addition, the procedural characteristics that every new solution effort must have had also been determined, Koumoutsakos added. He noted that the procedural characteristics included that there should be no pressing timetables for the completion of any effort that commenced, replying to a question on whether the recent mobility on the issue was linked to the impending commencement of Turkey's accession negotiations with the EU slated for October 3.

[11] Public prosecutor launches probe into police actions at Polytechnic, student's injury

Athens, 13/5/2005 (ANA)

The violence erupted during the presentation of a book at the Athens Polytechnic on Tuesday night, between 40 youths and the police escorts of main opposition PASOK MPs Evangelos Venizelos, Christos Verelis and Spyros Vougias, who were among the roughly 100 guests attending.

The youths attacked the deputies' escorts who were waiting within the university compound, one of whom fired warning shots and hit one a 28-year-old man in the leg. The shot is believed to have been fired by the driver of former minister Christos Verelis.

This action further enraged the angry youths, who retaliated by setting fires and blockading the entrance to the Polytechnic, preventing the MPs and other guests from leaving the premises. Police who arrived on the scene were unable to intervene, because the Polytechnic is protected by university asylum.

The siege finally came to an end just before 5 a.m., with the youths leaving together and heading for nearby Exarhia Square. A few minutes later, the parliamentary deputies also left.

The prosecutor investigating the case has been instructed to determine the motives of the guard who fired against the young man, the events that led to the MPs and other guests being held hostage and who was responsible for keeping them against their will.

Government spokesman Theodoros Roussopoulos said on Thursday that the government had no plans for modifying university asylum and said that he considered it "self-evident" that the asylum should not be violated.

[12] KKE leader Papariga calls for parliamentary debate on the rights of working women

Athens, 13/5/2005 (ANA)

In a letter to Parliament President Anna Psarouda-Benaki, Papariga noted that working women "again find themselves facing a new worse attack against their rights, directed by the European Union but in agreement also with the corresponding plan of the New Democracy government."

According to the president of the KKE's parliamentary group, "the working time again becomes a target and its arrangement is planned in accordance to the needs and the objectives of businesses. The liberalization of the working hours of shops and the abolition of Sunday as a day off, relegates to a nightmarish scenario for the life of the working women with more tragic repercussions for the young women."

[13] Greek ambassador to Sofia receives Bulgarian students for discussion on their country's EU accession

SOFIA 13/5/2005 (ANA/B. Borisov)

Mantzouranis placed emphasis on common principles, democratic values and respect for the views and interests of all member-states which characterize united Europe, in replying to many questions on Greece's experience as an active member of the EU for over two decades.

"The future of small countries in the EU lies in understanding and in alliances," the Greek ambassador said, clarifying that the main characteristic of alliances in united Europe is "in favor" and not "against."

[14] Turkish mayor of Dikeli apologizes for behavior of 'Grey Wolves' at Pergamos

Athens, 13/5/2005 (ANA)

In his letter, the Turkish mayor thanked the Prefect "for his hospitality and for everything he and the other Greeks of Lesvos did during the visit of Turkish citizens to Lesvos."

"However, I am saddened because we were not able to show the same hospitality to you and (Ecumenical) Patriarch Vartholomeos," he said, and concluded: "Please accept our apology for the regrettable event at Pergamos the day before yesterday."

[15] Greece, Commission continue talks over EU funds

Athens, 13/5/2005 (ANA)

The issue will be discussed on Friday and Saturday during an informal ECOFIN meeting in Luxembourg. Greek Economy and Finance Minister George Alogoskoufis will participate in the meeting.

Economy ministry officials said talks between the ministry and the European Commission over payments of a Third Community Support Framework program were currently underway. Finance Deputy Minister Christos Folias on Wednesday agreed with the Commission for a continuation of talks for at least one more week. The ministry seeks to ensure a smooth implementation of the program and has submitted an "action plan" to the European Commission aiming to ensure full transparency in EU-funded projects in the country.

[16] Gov't unveils draft law on joint projects between public and private sectors

Athens, 13/5/2005 (ANA)

Addressing a seminar on the issue in Athens, the Greek minister said joint projects between the public and private sectors "will give new impetus to growth and will ensure the timely completion of many necessary infrastructure, while at the same time release funds to more investments and social policies".

The mobilization of private capital would help Greece acquire reliable infrastructure with better quality and lower cost projects. The citizen will be the biggest winner of the program, Alogoskoufis said.

The draft law names the public agencies eligible for implementing joint project contracts with private companies and also sets a ceiling of 200 million euros on project budgets.

The government will form a ministerial meeting aimed to draft government policy on infrastructure projects and services with the participation of private funds.

[17] Gov't denies following austerity policy

Athens, 13/5/2005 (ANA)

"There is no policy of austerity, there is a policy of mild adjustment - as the prime minister realistically described in his message to Greek citizens. It is a policy that will allow us to reduce our deficits within two years," government spokesman Theodoros Roussopoulos said.

Roussopoulos was responding to questions concerning statements by the head of the trade union grouping DAKE, which is affiliated to ruling New Democracy.

[18] Greek industrial production down 4.9 pct in March, yr/yr

Athens, 13/5/2005 (ANA)

NSS, in its monthly report, said a 5.5 percent drop in manufacturing production in March reflected a fall in production in the food and beverage sector, oil products, textile products and clothing.

The mining production index dropped 16.7 percent, while the electricity-natural gas-water production index rose 2.3 percent, reflecting higher production in electricity production and distribution.

The average industrial production composite index fell 1.7 percent in the January-March period, compared with the same period last year, with the mining production index plunging 10.3 percent, the manufacturing index down 1.5 percent and the electricity-natural gas-water production index up 0.6 percent over the same period.

[19] Athens Olympics organizers end with surplus of 7.0 million euros

Athens, 13/5/2005 (ANA)

Originally, the surplus totalled 130.6 million euros, but 123.6 million euros were removed to pay for projects undertaken on behalf of the government, bringing a final surplus of 7,021,116 euros, the company said in a statement.

Revenue was 2.098 billion euros, with 27.6% of the total from television rights, 25.6% from international and national sponsors, 13.5% from government funding, 9.2% from tickets sales, 5.7% from marketing sales and other revenue sources. Expenses totalled 1.967 billion euros.

Aiding coffers was the company's foreign exchange risk management operation, under which revenue in dollars was converted into euros before the US currency's slide against the euro in 2002-2004.

[20] MARMIN trade fair opens its gates to the public

Athens, 13/5/2005 (ANA)

The fair, organized by Helexpo, will remain open until Sunday, 15 May. Development Deputy Minister George Salagoudis will inaugurate the trade fair on Thursday afternoon.

Helexpo expects commercial visitors to the fair from 17 countries: Italy, Spain, Cyprus, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, UAE, Syria, Libya, Egypt, China, FYROM, Albania, Serbia-Montenegro, Czech Republic, Romania, Hungary and Bulgaria.

A total of 138 direct and indirect exhibitors participate in this year's MARMIN from 12 countries: Bulgaria, France, Germany, Switzerland, Japan, Spain, Italy, China, Morocco, Uzbekistan, Sweden and Turkey.

[21] Greek minister rules out "wave of price increases" in the country

Athens, 13/5/2005 (ANA)

Speaking to reporters, Papathanasiou said government agency's interventions ensured lower prices during the Easter holiday period and predicted that prices would continue to be low.

Commenting on a ministry plan to extend shopping hours around the country, the Greek minister said there would be no radical changes to the ministry's initial proposal. Papathanasiou said he would meet with representatives of private schools on Friday to discuss fees for the school year 2005/06. School owners seek a 5.7 percent increase in fees while the ministry said that increases should not exceed 3.21 percent.

[22] Deputy development minister makes account of government's energy sector work

Athens, 13/5/2005 (ANA)

Salagoudis, focusing on the issue of "The role of electricity and heat joint production in southeastern Europe", referred to all energy sectors being developed in the country, placing emphasis on natural gas.

Referring to natural gas in particular, the deputy minister termed it the fuel of the next decade and said it shall balance the country's energy scale.

He further said that the new law on deregulating the natural gas market is expected to be ratified by June.

[23] Finmin wants to boost exports

Athens, 13/5/2005 (ANA)

Another target was to increase the range of exported goods, with emphasis on items with a high added value, Alogoskoufis told a conference of domestic export directors arranged by the Greek Organization for External Trade.

Smaller firms should group together under one body that would finance advertising campaigns as lone firms could not foot the bill, the minister said.

[24] Export managers' forum to be held in Athens

Athens, 13/5/2005 (ANA)

OPE's chief executive, P. Drosos, said the forum "will transfer know-how on practical export issues to small- and medium-sized enterprises. We boost the Greek economy's outgoing trend with the aim to increase Greek exports".

A series of leading Greek business managers will speak during the two-day forum, covering issues such as aggressive marketing, innovation in developing new export products and pricing policy.

[25] Deputy Tourism Minister Liaskos to visit Japan from May 16-23

Athens, 13/5/2005 (ANA)

Liaskos will speak on the business opportunities in Greek tourism at a conference on the theme "Greece: Business opportunities in the heart of Southeast Europe" which will take place in Tokyo on May 18.

Liaskos will have a series of contacts with officials of the tourism market, will visit the Greek pavilion at the exhibition and give press conferences to Japanese and international mass media on Greek tourism and the prospects for its development within the framework of the new measures and policies which Greece is implementing.

EXPO 2005, which lasts for six months, constitutes one of the greatest exhibition events of the past decades, at which 127 countries are participating, including all the European Union countries, while the number of visitors is expected to exceed 15 million.

According to the program of the official Greek mission, Liaskos will visit Kyoto, Nagoya and Osaka.

[26] Greek mobile telephony operators say no danger from antennas

Athens, 13/5/2005 (ANA)

[27] Report finds geographic imbalances in education

Athens, 13/5/2005 (ANA)

The report, based on average degrees by university candidates around the country, showed that pupil population prospects were directly linked with social society particularities, cultural and economic situation. The report said that a rapid and uncontrolled tourist development of a region seriously undermined the future growth of the society.

The report said that average success for entering the third grade education system was 79.32 percent in Greece. Prefects with averages below the panhellenic average level are regions with two main characteristics: either low growth rates, high unemployment, de-industrialization, low per capita income (Thrace, Western Attica, Piraeus), or high percentage of people working in tourist areas (Aegean, Ionian islands).

The report concluded that the Education ministry should carefully study any such geographic imbalances and to intervene to address any such problems. It also called for the formation of a national observatory to help in drafting a more efficient education policy in the country.

[28] Basiakos satisfied with proposal of European Court's public prosecutor on 'feta' cheese

Athens, 13/5/2005 (ANA)

"After coordinated, successful and effective positionings by the Greek side, the General Public Prosecutor of the Higher European Court submitted to the European Court his proposals about 'feta', which vindicate the Greek positions," Basiakos noted. He added that the proposals refute the positions of Denmark and Germany for them to also use the term "feta" and focus on the fact that this term represents the name of a cheese, which is manufactured in Greece for many years and originates exclusively only from Greece.

[29] Former opposition finmin sees need for economic reform

LONDON 13/5/2005 (ANA/ L Tsirigotakis)

Among changes needed were a decentralization of operation, financing and support for market mechanisms, Papantoniou, a deputy of the main opposition PASOK party, said in a speech to the Hellenic Observatory, which belongs to the London School of Economics.

While in London, Papantoniou also met the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Gordon Brown, for talks on the European Union's economic outlook.

[30] Greece's first satellite reaches nearly 50% of capacity

Athens, 13/5/2005 (ANA)

The Hellas Sat-2 has expanded telecoms services to business and higher education, company chairman and managing director, Panayis Vourloumis, said in a statement.

Capacity has been leased to clients in the telecoms and information industries including Teleglobe, IABG, Netdish, Saudi Telecom, Austrian Telekom, Bulsatcom, Athina Sat, ASCO. and governments in the Middle East.

[31] Merchant marine ministry fines owner of ferry 'Aegean Sun' 5,200,000 euros

Athens, 13/5/2005 (ANA)

The fine was signed by Merchant Marine Minister Manolis Kefaloyiannis and constitutes a "warning" to any Greek shipping company allowing its ships to approach any port in Turkish-occupied territory in Cyprus.

Kefaloyiannis had stated, in referring to the issue of illegally approaching Turkish-occupied Famagusta, that "Greek ships which do not defend national interests cannot bear the Greek flag."

[32] Stocks rise in across-the-board buying

Athens, 13/5/2005 (ANA)

The Athens general share index closed at 2,892.03 points, marking a rise of 0.76%. Turnover was 162.0 million euros.

The FTSE/ASE-20 index for high capitalization shares ended 0.65% up; the FTSE/ASE-40 for medium cap stocks closed 0.39% higher; and the FTSE/ASE-80 for small cap shares finished 0.34% up.

Of stocks traded, advances led declines at 163 to 88 with 79 remaining unchanged.

[33] President Papoulias to visit Monument in Chios on Sunday

Athens, 13/5/2005 (ANA)

The president will attend the memorial service at the church of Aghia Marina Melanious and lay a wreath at the Monument of the Holocaust.

The government will be represented at the events by Deputy Agricultural and Foods Minister Alexandros Kontos.

On Saturday, President Papoulias will attend events in celebration of the 85th anniversary of the liberation of Alexandroupolis, northern Greece. He will arrive at "Demokritos" airport in the morning where he will be welcomed by local officials. He will then attend a service at the church of Aghios Nikolaos and later lay a wreath at the Monument for the Fallen in Battle.

[34] Foreign ministry has provided two million euros in food aid for tsounami victims

Athens, 13/5/2005 (ANA)

Out of the two million euros (which constitute part of the 10 million delivered to UN Secretary General Kofi Annan), the one has been given to Somalia and the other to the remaining countries affected by the tsounami.

Stylianidis said Greece is giving 200,000 dollars as a two-year contribution to the World Food Program, an organization which is active in combatting starvation.

The World Food Programme's alternate director John Powell thanked the Greek government, Stylianidis and the Greek people for their generosity and stressed that his visit here is an opportunity for him to contact Greek non-governmental organizations, which are active in the food sector, for the strengthening of their cooperation and action.

Stylianidis further said that "the humanity of the Greek people emerged through the regrettable event of the disaster caused by the tsounami and the wave of volunteerism which operated during the Olympic Games was strengthened."

[35] Event to be held marking the 100th anniversary of the operation of the ANA

Athens, 13/5/2005 (ANA)

The event will honor with the presence of President of the Republic Karolos Papoulias. Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis, the political party leaders and representatives of the country's cultural and economic field have been invited.

Greetings will be addressed by Minister of State and Government Spokesman Theodoros Roussopoulos and political party representatives.

During the event, a commemorative album will be presented which has been issued by the ANA on the occasion of this anniversary, while at the same site a photographic exhibition and historical documents of the ANA will be on display.

The event will be broadcast directly through the Internet from the website of the Macedonian News Agency (www.mpa.gr).

[36] Jailed former archimandrite to be tried for fraud, illegal property sales

Athens, 13/5/2005 (ANA)

Also to be charged is the notary that drew up the contracts for the transaction.

Yiossakis has denied the charges, claiming that he had legally inherited the property from the metropolitan.

Yiossakis had reached the rank of archimandrite in the Greek Orthodox Church when his arrest in an antiquities-smuggling case triggered a hugely embarrassing storm of scandal surrounding the courts and clergy, revealing links with organized crime, drug dealers and judicial corruption.

The affair had widespread repercussions in the Church and judicial body, leading to the resignation of the former Metropolitan of Thessaliotidos Theoklitos, who supported Yiossakis' promotion, and charges of money-laundering and embezzlement against the Metropolitan of Attica Panteleimon, who was suspended from his duties for six months by the Holy Synod of the Church of Greece.

Panteleimon, who also faces permanent dismissal, was also called before the Holy Synod to answer questions over unusually large bank deposits in his name and his participation in an offshore company, as well as his ties with Yiossakis as revealed by a tape-recording of him and the former archimandrite discussing the rigging of a trial.

[37] Former Parliamentary deputies to receive professional rehabilitation bonus

Athens, 13/5/2005 (ANA)

Speaking to reporters on the decision taken by the Parliament plenum and published in the government gazette recently, Parliament President Anna Benaki-Psarouda said the decision concerns 60-65 former deputies who will be receiving a monthly bonus to restore their professional activities, while they will also be provided with medical and pharmaceutical treatment that deputies in active service are entitled to.

Benaki further said that the exact amount of the bonus will be determined by a decision she will be taking until summer.

[38] Prince Charles on pilgrimage to Mount Athos

Athens, 13/5/2005 (ANA)

The heir to the British throne arrived shortly after 5 p.m. at "Megas Alexandros" airport in Kavala and in continuation the motorcade of seven cars which accompanied him, arrived at the port of Nea Peramos where he boarded the luxury yacht.

He was not accompanied by his wife Camilla.

[39] 13 illegal immigrants arrested in Samos

Athens, 13/5/2005 (ANA)

The illegal immigrants passed over from the coast of Asia Minor in a wooden boat which was found half sunk, while they themselves managed to reach the islet of Aghios Nikolaos where they hid.

They were detected by an inhabitant who notified the port and police authorities. The Iraqis, having first been given a medical examination, were led to Samos' Detention Centre.

[40] EU ready to play proactive role for Cyprus settlement, Commissioner Rehn says

NICOSIA 13/5/2005 (CNA/ANA)

Rehn and Schmit gave a joint conference here for Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot journalists and noted that a compromise settlement should be found regarding the Commission's proposal for the adoption of a financial aid regulation for Turkish Cypriots and a direct trade regulation between Turkish Cypriots and the EU member states.

During their talks here they also discussed the illegal exploitation of Greek Cypriot properties in the Turkish occupied part of Cyprus and Rehn underlined that this issue proves even more the immediate need for a comprehensive settlement.

''Our primary objective is and remains the comprehensive settlement and the reunification of Cyprus and there is now a fresh momentum. The Commission is ready to play a proactive role in this process and we support the resumption of serious talks on the reunification of Cyprus under the auspices of the UN'', Rehn said.

He added that the ''exceptionally joint mission with the Presidency shows that we are very seriously searching for a solution on the behalf of the EU''.

Regarding the two Commission's regulations Rehn said that the Commission considers its original proposal as the first best option, adding that ''facing the reality that it has not been adopted by the Council, we support the Luxembourg Presidency to seek a compromise''.

Answering a question, Enlargement Commissioner said that they discussed the Cyprus government proposal on the return of the fenced area of Famagusta to its lawful inhabitants and on the reopening of the city port.

''We discussed various elements to enhance a decision on the trade and aid measures in order to facilitate economic development and direct trade. It is well known that the Famagusta proposal is one element we consider. I prefer not to go to any detail now, I prefer that the political leaders of the Republic and the northern part of the island respond to themselves to this question'', Rehn said.

On his part Schmit said that the Presidency would do its utmost to prepare a balanced solution.

''This is what we are aiming at, because we think that it is time to open again the way to a political settlement here. We cannot just leave these commitments, which were taken by the Council to support financially the Turkish Cypriot community in terms of financial aid but also in terms of breaking the economic isolation at this part of the country'', Schmit noted.

Luxembourg's minister added that no agreement has been reached yet regarding the two regulations.

''We have to continue these talks and take into account a certain number of very delicate issues which were brought to us during this visit, mainly the very sensitive issue of property rights'', Schmit said.

Regarding the issue of the illegal exploitation of Greek Cypriot properties in occupied Cyprus Rehn said that this is an issue that proves the urgency for a comprehensive settlement.

''Once we have a revised plan at some stage, I believe we are in progress and that there will be a revised plan, of course the property rights will have to be at the core of it'', he noted.

The EU Commissioner added ''the current situation is increasing tension in the island and I would find it very difficult to support the use of civil and criminal law on an issue, which is predominately, a political matter. We have to even more urgently and seriously work for a comprehensive settlement''.

[41] Cyprus President reiterates positions to EU Commissioner

NICOSIA 13/5/2005 (CNA/ANA)

''We talked about the release of 259 million euro, earmarked for the Turkish Cypriots, without any terms or conditions attached to the relevant regulation and we intend to make a formal proposal on this. We also talked about implementation of the regulation governing trade across the Green Line,'' he said.

There is no link between these two regulations and the one on free trade between the EU and the Turkish occupied areas of the Republic, he added.

Responding to questions, he said he also discussed the government proposal on the return of the fenced area of Famagusta to its lawful inhabitants and on the reopening of the city port.

''I raise these issues at every meeting, here and in Brussels, in addition to the exploitation of Greek Cypriot property in the occupied areas,'' he said.

Foreign Minister George Iacovou, speaking after a meeting with Rhen, said the Commission seems to insist that the two regulations (on funding to the Turkish Cypriots and direct trade with the occupied north) must be linked. ''Perhaps not with the same vigor as it had done in the past,'' he noted.

Responding to questions, he said the government believes that the regulation providing for 259 million euro for the Turkish Cypriots must be approved in time so that funds available are not wasted, before EU deadlines on the use of such funds are met.

''We would like the EU Luxembourg presidency to table this regulation for approval by the end of May,'' he said, adding that the Commission has not put forward any alternative solutions to the difference in approach between Brussels and Nicosia but it has ''many thoughts'' on the matter.

Responding to questions, he said the government cannot accept the regulation on direct trade as this was presented by the Commission at

COREPER (permanent representatives of member states to Brussels) and insists on disconnecting the two regulations (funding and direct trade) as there will be no gains from such an approach.

[42] China supports peaceful settlement of Cyprus problem

NICOSIA 13/5/2005 (CNA/ANA)

According to an official press release issued here on Wednesday, Li Zhaoxing was speaking during a meeting in Beijing with Cypriot Minister of Foreign Affairs George Iacovou, who was on an official visit to China at the invitation of his counterpart.

Li Zhaoxing assured that his country, as a permanent member of the UN Security Council, would actively support efforts to solve the Cyprus problem, based on the relevant UN resolutions.

He congratulated Cyprus on its accession to the EU and expressed his gratitude for Cyprus' understanding in issues of special interest to China.

Iacovou expressed Cyprus' readiness to further enhance relations between EU and China.

The Cypriot minister of foreign affairs thanked Li Zhaoxing for his country's support for a peaceful solution to the Cyprus question based on UN resolutions and briefed him on the current situation on the island.

Foreign minister of the People's Republic of China accepted an invitation by Iacovou to visit Cyprus for an official visit.

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