Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English, 05-05-14

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

CONTENTS

[01] PM Karamanlis, opposition party leaders address parliamentary debate on foreign policy

[02] Government proceeding with consultations with European Commission for common formula on primary shareholder issue

[03] Parliament to reconsider decision for 'rehabilitation' benefit for former MPs

[04] Ecumenical and Alexandria Patriarchs conclude visit to Imvros island

[05] Greek and Portuguese Communist Party delegations discuss political situation in both countries

[06] Justice Minister addresses European Lawyers Union conference

[07] PASOK coordinator Papaioannou meets Swedish Deputy Justice Minister Elliasson

[08] No legal prohibition for U.S. politicians to visit northern Cyprus, Boucher says

[09] Greek GDP up 3.6 percent in 1st quarter, yr/yr

[10] Greek banks to report 18.2 pct average increase in 1st qtr profits

[11] Euro to rise to 1.40 US dollars by end 2005, report

[12] Greece honored country in Moscow tourism fair

[13] Greece lags behind in the use of internet, Eurostat report

[14] Agricultural Bank of Greece plans to up revenue in 2005-2007

[15] Morgan Stanley revises MSCI share indices

[16] Regulators slap 300,000-euro fine on Athens-quoted telecom

[17] Tourist island seeks action on power shortage

[18] Work to start on Ionia Way by spring 2006

[19] Tatoulis meets British activist Stockdale who supports the return of the Parthenon Marbles

[20] Russian Monument to be unveiled for Soviet fighters killed in Greece during WW2

[21] Refugees spotted off Lesvos, immigrant smuggler arrested

[22] F-16 jetfighter makes safe emergency landing after developing mechanical problem

[23] 'Humanitarian Marathon' to be held on June 12

[24] Cyprus President Papadopoulos to send an envoy to UN for Cyprus issue

[25] Cyprus president stresses that occupied Famagusta port is illegal

[26] Rhen calls on parties in Cyprus to show compromise

[01] PM Karamanlis, opposition party leaders address parliamentary debate on foreign policy

Athens 14/5/2005 (ANA)

Opening the debate, Karamanlis emphasized that Greece remained in the inner core of the European Union and that the country was upgrading its relations with the United States, pointing to his imminent second visit to the US and adding that "we are working for the common interest, with mutual respect".

The premier focused on his government's policy regarding Euro-Mediterranean cooperation, strengthening relations with Russia and the Black Sea countries, SE Europe and particularly relations with FYROM, Greek-Turkish relations, and the Cyprus issue.

On Euro-Med cooperation, the target was to advance the idea of establishing a free trade zone by 2010, and seeking a settlement of the Middle East issue, he said.

Regarding the strengthening of relations with Russia and the Black Sea countries, Karamanlis said that the results of this policy had already started to manifest themselves, with the signing of the political agreement by Greece, Russia and Bulgaria on April 12 for the Burgas-Alexandroupolis cross-border oil pipeline. The 285-kilometre pipeline to carry Russian oil from Burgas in Bulgaria to Alexandroupolis in northern Greece has an estimated investment cost of 750-800 million US dollars with an annual capacity of 35 million tones of oil. It will supplement a sea route through the Bosporus for transportation of the product in the region. It is anticipated that the pipeline will forge a new outlet for Russian oil and for oil from the Caspian Sea to Europe and America.

The premier also said that Greece had exercised the most dynamic presidency of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation (BSEC) organization, as was acknowledged by the BSEC member countries, during which it organized business forums, an inter-parliamentary conference, and six ministerial meetings.

On SE Europe, Karamanlis said that a new momentum was given to the Balkan Reconstruction Plan. He said that the first projects in Albania and the first major project in Bosnia had commenced, while Greek exports to the Balkans increased by 18 percent in 2004, and added that Greece was already the number one investor in Bulgaria, FYROM and Albania.

He said the creation of an "energy community" in SE Europe was being aspired to and, "after intensive efforts, we hope the agreement will be signed in Athens in the coming months".

At the same time, the project for the transfer of gas to Greece via Turkey was also being advanced, the premier said, adding his hope that he and his Turkish counterpart will inaugurate the construction of the project in Evros sometime in June.

Further, materialization of a project for building a natural gas pipeline from Greece to Italy was also being advanced, Karamanlis said, stressing that the various projects would render Greece and important energy hub, thus creating new developmental prospects.

Particularly in regard to Greece's relations with FYROM, Karamanlis noted that Greece had from the outset made it clear that the proposal put forward by UN special mediator on the FYROM name issue Matthew Nimetz's did not fully satisfy the Greek positions, but that the country was willing to take part in a final round of dialogue. He said that the result of Greece's stance was that "for the first time after many years, the attention of the international community is turned towards FYROM".

In his rejoinder, meanwhile, he denied that the government had kept the opposition parties "in the dark" over developments, stressing that the briefing of opposition parties had never been more frequent or complete.

Regarding Greek-Turkish relations, the premier said that a condition for their improvement was resolution of the Cyprus issue. He said Greece supported Turkey's EU prospect, but added that this depended on Ankara's attitude and the materialization of the EU summit decisions of December 2004, which contained, inter alia, "an explicit reference to solving the problems of the Greek minority on Imvros and Tenedos, for the first time, a reference to the need for Turkey to normalize its relations with all the EU member states, and to help in resolving the Cyprus issue in harmony not only with the framework of the UN, but also with the principles of the EU".

He said that Turkey was obliged to fully implement the rulings of the European Court of Human Rights for the re-opening of the Halki School of Theology, and for resolving the problems of the non-Moslem communities in Turkey.

Karamanlis denied, in his rejoinder, that the government had allowed the December 17, 2004 deadline in the Helsinki Agreement to pass by unused, noting that the date referred not to an end of efforts to resolve Greek-Turkish differences but to their review by the European Council.

"This review has taken place and is continuing to take place. Turkey is constantly being judged by the EU and the terms set for Turkey are strict - more so than for any other country," he stressed.

On the Cyprus issue, he said that Greece was encouraging the resumption of negotiations between the two communities on the island republic, under the UN aegis, without arbitration, and without asphyxiating timetables that could lead to new impasses. He said the government considered a careful preparation of both the process and the substance of the negotiations a necessity, so as to ensure the best prospects for the achievement of agreement between the two sides which, in turn, would be put to separate referenda in the two communities.

"Our target is to achieve a solution that is functional. Otherwise, it will not be viable, and a solution that is not viable is not a solution," the prime minister stressed.

Karamanlis stressed that his government's permanent aspiration was consensus and unity among the Greeks. "For us, the national issues are above political parties and governments," he said.

Rejecting criticism from PASOK's leader over the way the government had handled negotiations at Lucerne, Karamanlis said Papandreou seemed to object to the fact that Greece had not forced the Greek-Cypriot side to back down and accept a solution that they found unacceptable.

"I would never do this, since it is against my principles. I consider I do not have the right to attempt such manipulation and would be morally discredited if I attempted to do so," he said.

The premier also replied to PASOK's criticism over the "primary shareholder" and the way Brussels' objections had been handled, reiterating that not a single euro of Community funding would be lost on account of it. He pointed out that the EU objected equally to the equivalent law passed by the previous PASOK government.

"The difference is that you pass laws that you do not implement, while we want laws to be acted on in all directions," he added.

Summing up, Karamanlis referred to the 4th Community Support Framework and said this would require tough negotiations, followed by the major challenge of making optimal use of this "last great opportunity".

In response to issues raised by the smaller opposition parties, meanwhile, the premier stressed that every government should have channels of communications open with other governments, but especially the United States.

"One may agree or disagree with aspects of U.S. policy or its social model but one is obliged to recognize that the U.S. have a special role in international affairs," he said.

He said his talks in Washington would cover the Cyprus issue, Balkan affairs and bilateral issues, particularly economic matters and the country's efforts to attract new investment.

Regarding Kosovo, Karamanlis stressed that it was still the potential trigger of destabilization but underlined that any solution must fully meet certain standards, that Serbia and Montenegro must be fully involved and that it must be integrated into a European framework.

On relations with Turkey, the premier urged all sides to look at Greece's "overall strategy", which was to support Turkey's European prospects and thus "Europeanize" it. He said the ongoing exploratory talks between Athens and Ankara were correct in principle but were currently stalled since both sides insisted on fixed positions.

Papandreou: Speaking, in turn, main opposition PASOK leader George Papandreou expressed concern that "soon we will be speaking about an increase in tension" between Greece and Turkey "which we could have avoided".

Papandreou criticized the ND government on all issues, and warned that if the government continued to cultivate fear and insecurity, believing that the people would follow blindly and in fear, it would have to give account to himself and the entire Greek people.

In his rejoinder, replying to both Karamanlis and Foreign Minister Petros Molyviatis, Papandreou claimed that the government, by removing the element of time pressure on Turkey, had essentially given extreme elements within that country the go-ahead to carry out violations in and above the Aegean in order to establish rights that Turkey did not now possess.

He also insisted that judicial use of the December 17 deadline at Helsinki would have allowed Greece to resolve issues with Turkey concerning the Aegean continental shelf, which had now been indefinitely postponed.

Foreign Minister Petros Molyviatis: In an address replying chiefly to PASOK's leader, Molyviatis rejected arguments that Turkish provocativeness was due to the government's bad handling, stressing that Turkey's aggressive stance was and remained the same as in the past.

He said that Greece supported Turkey's European prospects, provided it complied with international rules and obligations as outlined in the documents of EU association.

According to the minister, meanwhile, the government's handling had significantly improved on the Helsinki Treaty, after five years of inaction by PASOK governments.

He also accused PASOK of undermining the government's negotiating position at the last-ditch Cyprus talks in Lucerne through its public support of the Annan Plan, which PASOK had described as a "historic opportunity" that should not missed.

"The normalization of Greek-Turkish relations is not possible without a resolution of the Cyprus issue and the reunification of the island. Without a viable solution on the basis of the Annan plan and in accord with European rules and principles," Molyviatis stressed.

The minister also stressed that any resumption of negotiations on the Cyprus issue must be carefully prepared to avoid a new failure, without arbitration or extremely pressing deadlines.

Regarding the Nimetz proposal for FYROM's name, Molyviatis said that the government had no reason to seek the consensus of the political parties, since no agreement was being made.

"We accepted the proposal as the basis for beginning negotiations. It was made public for the first time in order to reverse the negative international climate against Greece that it was being unreasonable at the expense of tiny country," he added.

Left-wing parties: Communist Party of Greece (KKE) General Secretary Aleka Papariga once more reiterated her party's blanket opposition to the foreign policy line of the two main parties, saying that this was fully aligned with the wishes of the United States, the EU and NATO.

She said that the premier's trip to Washington would result in new concessions to America and called on the government to resist independence for Kosovo and to support the 1999 United Nations resolution that borders in the region should not be changed.

On relations with Turkey, she stressed that "good neighborness could not be secured by conceding sovereign rights".

Coalition of the Radical Left (Synaspismos) leader Alekos Alavanos accused the government of carrying out "secret diplomacy" on Greek-Turkish issues and of failing to inform the political parties of the latest developments in major foreign policy issues.

He also noted that neither of the two main parties had expressed any position on world affairs, such as the situation in Iraq or Britain's attempts to raise the issue of Iranian nuclear installations at the United Nations, even though Greece was a member of the UN Security Council.

[02] Government proceeding with consultations with European Commission for common formula on primary shareholder issue

Athens 14/5/2005 (ANA)

Referring to the letter received by the government from the Commission's Domestic Market-Services Department's general director Alexander Schaub, the spokesman said the Schaub letter "merely confirms what we have said a long time ago, namely that PASOK's law is an anti-EU one, despite the many windows with which interests of all kinds were being served."

Schaub's letter said, among other things, that "pursuant to the aforesaid letter by the Greek authorities to the Commissioner, Mr. McCreevy, I wish to inform you with the present letter that the Commission's services applaud the possibility of working with the relevant national authorities to find a solution, which will secure both compliance with the opinion communicated and compatibility with EU law, as regards the issue of the executive legislation of article 14, paragraph 9 of the Greek constitution."

[03] Parliament to reconsider decision for 'rehabilitation' benefit for former MPs

Athens 14/5/2005 (ANA)

The decision to suspend the benefit was taken after both the opposition and ruling parties expressed opposition to its implementation, during an off-the-agenda debate on foreign policy in Parliament.

Psarouda-Benaki noted, however, that the benefit had been made unanimously agreed by all the political parties and that the party leaders must had been aware of it, stressing that debate on the issue had begun months earlier.

"Is it possible that there are parliamentary groups that vote for such an important decision without their political leaders being informed? If this is the case, then there is something wrong with the parliamentary groups," she said.

The issue was raised by Coalition of the Radical Left (Synaspismos) leader Alekos Alavanos, who was then backed by main opposition PASOK leader George Papandreou and the Communist Party of Greece (KKE). Subsequently, Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis instructed Psarouda-Benaki to call the party representatives in order to review the decision.

The monthly 'professional rehabilitation benefit' is designed to assist former MPs in resuming professional careers they had given up in order to keep their seat in Parliament. Parliamentary deputies were barred from conducting any form professional activity by the "incompatibility" clause introduced in the latest revision of the Greek Constitution.

The parliamentary decree published in the government gazette provides for a monthly benefit of 3,000 euros for two years for former MPs who were not re-elected to Parliament in the general elections of March 7, including those who decided not to stand. In addition to the monthly cash payment, they would be entitled to the same healthcare benefits as MPs in active service.

[04] Ecumenical and Alexandria Patriarchs conclude visit to Imvros island

ISTANBUL 14/5/2005 (ANA - A. Kourkoulas)

The island, which along with nearby Tenedos was ceded to Turkey under the Lausanne Treaty, was originally inhabited by a thriving ethnic Greek community that dwindled sharply during the 1960s under hostile and indifferent Turkish governments, radically changing its demographic profile.

Bartholomew noted that there were signs of an improvement in the climate and a return of ethnic Greeks that had emigrated abroad and appealed to the present Turkish government to redress the wrongs done by its predecessors.

[05] Greek and Portuguese Communist Party delegations discuss political situation in both countries

Athens 14/5/2005 (ANA)

Also discussed was action developed by the two parties in the labor, trade union and anti-imperialist movement, as well as in the European Union and the European Parliament.

Particular emphasis was placed on the further development of relations between the two parties and on closer cooperation and their coordination, "particularly on issues concerning common processing and strategy in confronting the aggressiveness of imperialism and their contribution to the development of joint efforts by the Communist movement to promote the necessity of socialism."

De Sousa invited a KKE delegation, headed by Papariga, to visit Portugal. The invitation was accepted.

[06] Justice Minister addresses European Lawyers Union conference

Athens 14/5/2005 (ANA)

Referring in particular to changes in labor law, the minister said "our country must become a competitive player in the framework of the European Union" and reassured that "basic and consolidated rights of working people will not be harmed, nor their freedoms."

Papaligouras also said "for a modern employer, freedom of thought, particularly of working people constitutes an important qualification which is cultivated and promoted. The modern working man has the right to receive and give advice to the employer."

He further pointed out that "it is in the interests of both sides, and of working people in particular who are much greater in number, to create an institutional framework which shall allow Greece to pass into the postindustrial economy as soon as possible."

Papaligouras also stressed during his address that "new legislation, new ideas and I hope a new mentality will prevail in labor relations at the beginning of the 21st century."

[07] PASOK coordinator Papaioannou meets Swedish Deputy Justice Minister Elliasson

Athens 14/5/2005 (ANA)

During the meeting, which was held at the initiative of Elliasson and in the presence of Swedish Ambassador to Athens Marten Grunditz, views and experiences were exchanged on matters concerning the field of justice in Greece and Sweden.

[08] No legal prohibition for U.S. politicians to visit northern Cyprus, Boucher says

WASHINGTON 14/5/2005 (ANA/T. Ellis)

However, he added that there was nothing reproachable or illegal in such a visit. "The delegations of congress determine by themselves their travel plans," Boucher stressed and added that on the part of the U.S. State Department, it "encourages" the American legislators to travel all over the world to ascertain at close hand the situation prevailing in issues and regions which interest them.

In reply to a question whether the visit is illegal, Boucher chose to point out that "American officials, even state members, are allowed to use the Ertzian airport (in occupied Tymbos)," while he noted that if the State Department is asked, it will notify the congressmen that "there is no legal prohibition during the visit of American politicians in northern Cyprus."

[09] Greek GDP up 3.6 percent in 1st quarter, yr/yr

Athens 14/5/2005 (ANA)

NSS, in its regular report, said Gross Domestic Product rose 3.6 percent in the January-March period and noted that GDP was up 4.3 percent in the first quarter of 2004.

Investments fell by 1.0 percent over the same period slowing demand in the economy by 0.2 percent in the country.

Exports rose by 6.9 percent in the January-March period, compared with the same period last year, adding 1.1 percent to final demand, while imports rose by 1.6 percent over the same period.

Spending on final consumption increased by 3.8 percent in the first three months of the year, adding 2.4 percent to final demand in the economy.

[10] Greek banks to report 18.2 pct average increase in 1st qtr profits

Athens 14/5/2005 (ANA)

Emporiki Bank is expected to report the biggest percentage increase (+59 percent) to 26.1 million euros, while Eurobank is expected to report a 30.9 percent rise in profits in the January-March period.

The report said National Bank's profits would rise by 23.2 percent to 179.4 million euros, Alpha Bank's would rise by 7.0 percent to 151.8 million euros, while Piraeus Bank would show a 23.1 percent increase in profits to 56.1 million euros.

[11] Euro to rise to 1.40 US dollars by end 2005, report

Athens 14/5/2005 (ANA)

[12] Greece honored country in Moscow tourism fair

Athens 14/5/2005 (ANA)

Greece is the honored country in this year's fair. During his stay in Moscow, Avramopoulos met with the Mayor of the Russian capital, Yury Luzkov, government vice-president Alexander Zukov, other government officials, tour operators and businessmen from the Russian tourism industry.

Greece and Russia agreed to promote procedures to sign a bilateral tourism agreement. The Greek minister has proposed a special agreement on visa issuance and expects the views of the Russian side.

Moscow's mayor, Yury Luzkov, speaking to reporters, congratulated Avramopoulos for Greece's dynamic presence in MITF. "We honor Greece, a friendly, neighboring country, very familiar to us Russians. Greece has several places of interest to Russian tourists".

Luzkov expressed the hope to overcome existing visa problems with the aim to forger closer relations between the two countries and added: "We want more Greek tourists to Moscow. When we speak of Greece, we speak of common religion, common traditions, culture and origin."

The Greek minister, speaking to reporters, reiterated that Greece participated in all big events organized in Russia. "We are in close contact with tourism policy makers. We are very interested for this part of global tourism market and our talks here confirmed our interest".

"Greece is opening up to the world. I am very optimistic for the future," Avramopoulos said.

[13] Greece lags behind in the use of internet, Eurostat report

Athens 14/5/2005 (ANA)

In the EU25, 47% of individuals, aged from 16 to 74, used the internet during the first quarter of 2004. More men used the internet than women, and more young people than old. At the beginning of 2004, 89% of enterprises were using the internet, and over half of enterprises had a broadband connection.

The report presents the results of surveys of internet usage by individuals and enterprises for the EU25 Member States, Bulgaria, Romania, Turkey, Norway and Iceland. As well as internet use, it covers broadband connections, e-commerce and e-government.

In the first quarter of 2004, the highest levels of internet usage by individuals in the EU25 were recorded in Sweden (82%), Denmark (76%) and Finland (70%). The lowest levels were registered in Greece (20%), Hungary (28%), Lithuania, Poland and Portugal (all 29%). On average in the EU25, the proportion of men using the internet (51%) was higher than for women (43%). This pattern applied in most Member States, except for Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and Finland, where usage was nearly the same for men and women.

In all Member States for which data is available, and for both men and women, internet usage was highest amongst those aged 16 to 24, and decreased with age. Across the EU25, three quarters of those aged 16 to 24 used the internet in the first quarter of 2004 (men: 76%, women: 74%). Amongst those aged 25 to 54 it was just over half (men: 57%, women: 51%), and for those aged 55 to 74 it was a quarter or less (men: 26%, women: 16%).

At the beginning of 2004, the highest levels of internet usage by enterprises were recorded in Denmark and Finland (both 97%), and in Belgium and Sweden (both 96%). The lowest levels were registered in Portugal (77%), Hungary (78%), Lithuania (81%), and Cyprus (82%).

Broadband offers a much faster connection to the internet, and offers the potential of changing the way the internet is used. Among the Member States for which data is available, the proportion of households with a broadband connection in 2004 was highest in Denmark (36%), Finland (21%) and Estonia (20%). Across the EU25, 53% of enterprises had a broadband connection. The highest levels were recorded in Denmark (80%), Sweden (75%) and Spain (72%).

[14] Agricultural Bank of Greece plans to up revenue in 2005-2007

Athens 14/5/2005 (ANA)

Income will rise through a more efficient use of the bank's existing network of 458 branches, the country's second largest; a imitation of cross-sales through product packages from the bank and its subsidiaries; and a boost in business generating commission, including one-stop shops.

In addition, management will introduce tight controls on cost; expand the use of information technology; improve the quality of assets employing a restructuring of the bank's loans portfolio; and employ an aggressive revitalization policy on debts stemming from a new law on penalty rates for overdue loans, the statement said.

Finally, a bid will be made to increase the earnings of subsidiaries; and a more efficient holdings policy is to be adopted, which may include phased divestment, management added.

[15] Morgan Stanley revises MSCI share indices

Athens 14/5/2005 (ANA)

Entering MSCI's Small Cap index on the same date are Sarantis and National Insurance; and leaving are Elval, Sidenor and Iaso.

Football Pools Organization will be added to MSCI's Blue Chip Euro and Pan Euro indices.

Greece's total market capitalization on Morgan Stanley's indices will come to 24.2 billion euros, up 15% on 21 billion euros at present.

[16] Regulators slap 300,000-euro fine on Athens-quoted telecom

Athens 14/5/2005 (ANA)

According to OTE, the company legitimely gave consumers no choice of equipment for ADSL links during the project's pilot phase in September 2003, but had allowed other options when the project was established.

Regulators also accused OTE of advertising its ISND-BRA link as free of charge, but in reality had factored the cost of its Netmode service into a monthly standing charge.

[17] Tourist island seeks action on power shortage

Athens 14/5/2005 (ANA)

The minister for Aegean and island policy, Aristotelis Pavlidis, told a meeting on the island that the projects were moving ahead, but acknowledged the pressure of time.

PPC chairman Ioannis Paleokrassas pledged that the company would have launched a new electricity plant in southern Rhodes by May 31, 2009; and an existing plant would be upgraded in the near future.

[18] Work to start on Ionia Way by spring 2006

Athens 14/5/2005 (ANA)

The move for the 191-kilometre stretch to link with the northeast-northwest Egnatia Way would follow a tender whose winner was likely to be declared by the end of 2005, Souflias told reporters during a visit to Aetoloacarnania in the west.

The Ionia Way should be completed in six years under a self-financing arrangement, Souflias added.

[19] Tatoulis meets British activist Stockdale who supports the return of the Parthenon Marbles

Athens 14/5/2005 (ANA)

The British philhellene visited Athens with the sole purpose of stating anew the need for the Parthenon Marbles to be reunited.

On his initiative and expenses, he cycled for about 20 days from London to Athens and finally arrived on Monday after having passed through many European countries.

The deputy culture minister congratulated Stockdale and in a relevant statement stressed that such initiatives and people "who actively show their interest for the restoration of a monument of world heritage, such as is the Parthenon, are needed."

After their meeting, the British doctor, who on Friday morning toured the Acropolis and was briefed on the maintenance work, stated:The purpose of my visit was really symbolic. I passionately believe that the Parthenon Marbles must be returned. Four years ago I swam from Dilos to Paros to make the world aware, to think of the situation. Later on, the idea came to me to cycle from London, and in fact from outside the British Museum, to Athens, for a symbolic journey. The importance is that a Briton is very much interested in making this effort due to his love of the Pathenon Marbles and particularly of the Greek people."

[20] Russian Monument to be unveiled for Soviet fighters killed in Greece during WW2

Athens 14/5/2005 (ANA)

The monument was created by sculptor Viacheslav Klikov and is a donation by the International Classic Studies and Culture Foundation to the municipality of Kallithea.

The ceremony will be attended by a large delegation from the Russian Federation, headed by the federal government's Agriculture Minister Alexei Gardeev, as well as by representatives of the Federation of Greek Communities of Russia and of the Commonwealth of Independent States.

[21] Refugees spotted off Lesvos, immigrant smuggler arrested

Athens 14/5/2005 (ANA)

The immigrant smuggler, identified as Turkish national Deniz Atisi, 26, was arrested, while the body of the dead refugee, an Indian, was taken to a hospital in Mytilene for a post mortem.

Criminal charges have been filed against Atisi at noon, who will be brought before an investigating magistrate on Saturday to make his plea.

[22] F-16 jetfighter makes safe emergency landing after developing mechanical problem

Athens 14/5/2005 (ANA)

The incident occurred at 11:00 a.m., after the F-16 pilot was alerted to a minor mechanical problem detected by the jetfighter's instrument panel.

The pilot safely landed the F-16, which had taken off earlier from the airforce base at Agchialos, for precautionary reasons at Limnos airport.

[23] 'Humanitarian Marathon' to be held on June 12

Athens 14/5/2005 (ANA)

The event will be organized by the World Food Programme in cooperation with the interior ministry's Hellenic Aid service and was announced on Friday during a conference held in Athens by the WFP's alternate general director John Powell, with the participation of Greek non-governmental organizations.

"Our target is not only to encourage cooperation between the partners of the society of citizens in Greece, which has already been consolidated, but also to promote new co operations at an international level. This is the reason that Hellenic Aid organized this meeting today to discuss the possibilities of cooperation between Greek NGOs and the WFP," Deputy Foreign Minister Evripidis Stylianidis said in his address to delegates.

[24] Cyprus President Papadopoulos to send an envoy to UN for Cyprus issue

NICOSIA 14/5/2005 (CNA/ANA)

Karoyian did not give any details regarding the date of Tzionis' visit to New York.

He noted that UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan would decide when to send his representative to Cyprus, for an exploratory mission, who will most likely be UN Deputy Secretary-General for political affairs Sir Kieran Prendergast.

''We are in the preparatory stage. It wouldn't be right to have too many expectations regarding the process which begins, and as President Papadopoulos correctly stated, it will be a long way," he said.

Karoyian noted that in the framework of the National Council's (top advisory body to the President regarding the Cyprus problem) decisions, President Papadopoulos has submitted to the UN Secretariat, in the last two months, his thoughts and suggestions aiming to create those circumstances that would allow the UN Secretary-General to decide whether to restart a new round of negotiations.

The Greek Cypriot side, he added, believes that the process should be well prepared, so that when the UN Secretary-General decides to resume the negotiations, there will be reasonable expectations that the talks will have a positive outcome, because ''we are all aware of the problems that would arise, once the new UN initiative fails to succeed''.

The Cyprus government's position is that the Cyprus problem should be solved in the UN framework and with an upgraded EU role, Karoyian said.

''The solution should comply with the international law and the European acquis communautaire," he stressed.

The Acting Government Spokesman noted that the National Council's decision is that there should be no tight timeframes or any procedures that would give the UN Secretary-General an arbitration role.

He added that the National Council has also decided that the solution to be presented to the Cypriots, via a referendum for approval or rejection, should be the result of an agreed solution between the interested parties.

"These are the basic parameters of the positions of the Greek Cypriot side and on this basis our side is trying to promote our positions in an effort to secure those guarantees and preconditions that would allow the resumption of the negotiations," Karoyian said.

[25] Cyprus president stresses that occupied Famagusta port is illegal

NICOSIA 14/5/2005 (CNA/ANA)

''The port of Famagusta is illegal, so no goods can be imported through it,'' the Cyprus president said, adding that such an action violates the EU Green Line Regulation.

The Cyprus president's statements were made in Nicosia at a reception given by the European Commission's Representation to Cyprus, the Representation of the European Parliament to Cyprus and the European Institution to celebrate the Day of Europe.

Invited also to comment on a statement made by Commissioner for Enlargement Olli Rehn that Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots should submit the changes they wish for the Annan plan, President Papadopoulos said ''I had a long meeting with the EU Commissioner, a very constructive and pleasant one. This was not the main issue we discussed''.

Answering another question, President Papadopoulos refrained from giving any details regarding the mission of the envoy he will send to the UN Headquarters in New York for an investigative mission regarding the Cyprus question.

[26] Rhen calls on parties in Cyprus to show compromise

NICOSIA 14/5/2005 (CNA/ANA)

In a speech at the Cyprus International Conference Centre entitled "Cyprus: One year after accession" during a gathering to mark Europe Day, Rehn said "no efforts should be spared to reach a comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus problem."

He said "one year after accession I encourage you all to show willingness to compromise. Take the example of Robert Schuman and do the impossible - reach for the other's hand. Only then we shall be able to create a new united Cyprus."

Rehn said "time is working against the interest of all Cypriots" noting that to end the stalemate as regards the trade and aid package to Turkish Cypriots, the Commission is "ready to consider a compromise allowing the adoption of the two proposals."

In his speech, Rehn said "the accession of Cyprus has been a success story. You have new economic opportunities and you enjoy the security benefit of EU membership."

He noted Cyprus' "sound economic record was justly rewarded by the decision of the EU to let Cyprus join the 2nd phase of the Exchange Rate Mechanism, which paves the way for a successful entry to the Euro-zone in a few years."

However, the Commissioner said, "it is regrettable that Cyprus entered the EU as a divided country. Of course, there is no doubt that trade across the Green Line, the routine crossing of thousands of Cypriots every day and the possible opening of new crossing points are positive signals. The Cypriots have also proven that the two communities can live peacefully together."

But these developments, Rehn added, "cannot replace a comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus problem. I am aware of the pain that the present situation causes. There are still minefields, barbed wire and blue helmets across your island. The northern part of the island suffers from a brain drain and economic isolation."

"In today's European Union, such a status quo jars. After three decades of separation and one year of EU membership, it is now high time for reconciliation and vision, for courage and far sightedness on both sides, to help Cyprus become a Member State like all the others - that is: united and in peace," the Commissioner added.

On the peace process, Rehn referred to the UN Secretary-General's plan which did not win the approval of the citizens of the Greek Cypriot community. Noting that such an outcome was a disappointment for those who thought that a comprehensive solution was within reach, he said "in a democracy, the vote of the people must be accepted and their concerns taken into account. We must now turn to the future and draw the lessons from this setback."

He said the Annan plan may be amended and improved, but still it constitutes the framework for a settlement as it addresses "all the core issues such as property, territory, security, and the institutions of a united island."

"The peace process needs to be resumed - and the sooner the better," said Rehn to add that "therefore, the positions of the parties and their wishes for changes to the Anan plan should be made clear. I fear that time is cementing the status quo - and is thus working against the Cypriots - all Cypriots. Every day without a solution deepens the division - de facto and in people's minds. The recent tensions and worries about properties underline the urgency to resume talks. I believe a new process would at least contain such tensions, pending a final settlement."

The Commission has repeatedly expressed its will to support all serious and well-intended efforts for such a comprehensive settlement. "We are willing to play a proactive role in future talks."

However, he said, any negotiations will take place under UN auspices, given its competence and expertise in key issues such as security, property, governance and territory. "And it must be clear that the main responsibility for any success of negotiations lies with the two communities on the island," he added.

Rehn renewed his call to both communities to find a way to engage in a dialogue with each other.

On the package for the Turkish Cypriots, he said in July 2004, the Commission proposed a comprehensive package of aid and trade measures. The aid regulation establishes an instrument of financial support for the economic development of the Turkish Cypriot community with a view to the reunification of the island; A259 m has been earmarked for this purpose. The trade regulation aims at offering special conditions for trade between the northern part of Cyprus and the EU, he said.

''Discussions in the Council have not led to an agreement on the two proposals. I'd like to emphasize that the only motivation of our proposal is to improve the economy in the north, to offer opportunities to the Turkish Cypriot community - and thus to bring it closer to its Greek Cypriot compatriots and to the EU,'' he added.

To end the stalemate, he said, "we are ready to consider a compromise allowing the adoption of the two proposals. I hope all parties concerned will show the same spirit of compromise."

Regarding the Green Line Regulation, Rehn said it has been "a great success in the crossing of persons" but "the value of goods traded across the line under the Regulation remains limited (around A 100,000 per month). He further expressed hope that there will be progress soon to open two further crossing points at Zodia and at Ledra Street.

On Turkey, he said "there is no doubt that Turkey will play a key role in finding a solution to the Cyprus problem. I am certain that Turkey's European prospects will help pave the way for a comprehensive settlement." He said "Turkey today accepts the prospect of a negotiated settlement leading to the reunification of the island."

''Moreover, Turkey has agreed on the additional protocol adapting the Ankara agreement, and I expect it will be signed soon after we complete our internal procedures. I am looking forward to Turkey progressing in the normalization of its relations with the Republic of Cyprus. In this context, we expect Turkey to lift its restrictions on Cypriot vessels, in line with the requirements of the EU-Turkey Customs Union," Rehn added.

Asked about a government proposal on the return of the fenced area of Famagusta to its lawful inhabitants and on the reopening of the city port, Rehn said "we are working on a compromise on the trade and aid package. It is work in progress and I don't want shoot the gun. The proposal on the Famagusta Port has been in the general wide debate related to the enhancement of the regulations." Noting he did not want to elaborate or speculate, Rehn pledged the Commission is sparing no efforts in the next few weeks in enhancing the regulations.

Invited to define what would be the enhanced EU role on Cyprus, Rehn said "as Cyprus has become an EU member state, thus it is a full part of the EU, it has also become a more and more European issue.

Therefore we want to facilitate the resumption of serious talks on the settlement, so we are exploring ground and trying to find a solution to the issues which are related to the enhancement of the economic and trade relations, that is the trade and aid package and some other issues.''

''At the next stage, once the talks have ensued it will be our task to ensure that the solution will be in line with the acquis communautaire,'' said Rehn, noting the lead role will have to be the UN and the SG.

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