Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English, 05-05-25

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

CONTENTS

[01] Cabinet approves farm bill to spur growth, align with EU

[02] FM Molyviatis confers with Cypriot counterpart Iacovou on Cyprus issue

[03] Orthodox Synod no longer recognizes Jerusalem Patriarch, Palestinian Authority voices its support

[04] Handful of Turkish protesters again take aim at Ecumenical Patriarchate

[05] Gov't again dismisses notion of early elections, counters press article on penalty interest rates

[06] Communist Party of Greece organizes tribute for late leader Florakis

[07] Socialist International meeting ends in Ramallah; Papandreou refers to importance of dialogue

[08] PASOK sec't says party's restructuring proceeding rapidly

[09] Greek and Belgian DMs discuss Balkans, Middle East

[10] Yiannakou represents Athens at EU ministers' council

[11] SYN hopes 'No' vote will prevail in referendum in France on European Constitution

[12] Speeding up justice a basic priority for government, justice minister says

[13] PM to attend events for 50th anniversary of Thessaloniki University polytechnic school

[14] Deputy FM represents Greece at Council of EU Development Cooperation

[15] Greek, Bulgarian, Russian delegations meet on Burgas-Alexandroupoli oil pipeline project

[16] OECD lowers Greek GDP growth rate forecast to 2.8 pct in 2005

[17] Federation of Greek Industries president briefs PM on developments in economy

[18] Trade unions oppose change in industrial relations

[19] Eurozone trade surplus at 4.2 bln euros

[20] EU Commission confirms investigation into suspected EU subsidy fraud in Greece

[21] Greek current accounts deficit up 76 pct in 1st quarter

[22] Gov't replies to EU query on bank pensions

[23] Seminar on investment opportunities in western Balkans

[24] Development Minister focuses on R&D issues during meeting with directors of research centers

[25] Stocks rise in low turnover

[26] Reception held at PM's offices for Greece's winning Eurovision team

[27] Alternate culture minister inaugurates conference on Olympic Truce

[28] DVD with works of 22 Greek artists prepared by Hellenic Academy of Modern Art

[29] Former police chief denies giving deposition on N17 attack at Louizis Riankour

[30] Internet users to have option of website names in Greek from July 4

[31] Special Olympics for Greece to be held in Ioannina, under aegis of President Papoulias

[32] Cyprus government to expose illegality in occupied north, says Spokesman

[33] Cyprus House President: Illegal sales of Greek Cypriot property must stop

[34] US warns citizens of risks in property deals in occupied Cyprus

[35] Russian FM discourages use of illegal entry points into Cyprus

[36] Cyprus Republic spends 157 m. pounds in support of Turkish Cypriots

[01] Cabinet approves farm bill to spur growth, align with EU

Athens, 25/5/2005 (ANA)

The wide-ranging legislation is destined for parliament in coming weeks.

"It will support young farmers, reduce bureaucracy and deal with farmers' day-to-day problems," said the architect of the bill, Agricultural Development and Foods Minister Evangelos Basiakos.

"A series of moves contained in the (ruling) New Democracy party's manifesto will be implemented that target growth of the agricultural economy," Basiakos told a news conference.

Among innovations in the bill are short-term, interest-free loans to aid operational spending for young farmers in mountain and deprived regions of the country, and medium-term lending in the same categories for the acquisition of key equipment and machinery. Interest-free loans will also be awarded for the purchase of farmland. In other categories, a loan-subsidy of 70% is to be offered.

In addition, the bill will legally sanction the creation of agricultural development centers around the country that the government has begun to set up in line with EU policy from 2007.

Each prefecture will open one centre, employing a nationwide total of 325 farming specialists. Falling under the jurisdiction of central regional authorities, the centers will provide scientific, professional, technical and technological support for farmers, the minister said.

Services will also help farmers to keep up to date on European sector programs and adapt crop cultivation. One of many aids on offer is data provision on the type, variety and quality of crops available to farmers.

A new institution to arise will be a farm imports control authority to track products as they enter Greek borders until they reach store shelves in order to protect both consumers and the national market.

"The service's task will be to collect data and complaints on a daily basis concerning imported agricultural goods from all customs entry points around the country," the minister said.

In addition, financial, growth and tax incentives will be offered to farm cooperatives wishing to merge, in order to make the sector viable.

Finally, the Organization for Greek Agricultural Insurance will lower by 25% a contribution for livestock, and raise compensation for livestock breeders by the same amount; and the national milk board will carry out quality control tests on the product, Basiakos noted.

[02] FM Molyviatis confers with Cypriot counterpart Iacovou on Cyprus issue

Athens, 25/5/2005 (ANA)

"We studied the possibility of new prospects for resumption of the process to seek a solution," Molyviatis told reporters after the meeting.

He reiterated that Athens and Nicosia were in "close and regular" cooperation "with the common goal being the reunification of the island, and negotiations on the basis of the Annan Plan, the UN resolutions, and in line with the principles and values of the European Union".

Iacovou referred to the issues being currently faced by the Republic of Cyprus, such as the upcoming decision by the UN Security Council on the renewal of the UNFICYP's mandate, the European Union and the deliberations on the extension of Ankara's Customs Union Protocol to the new EU member countries, and the Islamic Conference.

Asked to comment on press allegations that Greek Orthodox Patriarch of Jerusalem Irineos had sold Patriarchate properties in the occupied sector of Cyprus, Iacovou said that during a meeting between the Cypriot ambassador to Israel with the Patriarch himself, Irineos had categorically denied the rumors, and denied that such an action had even been considered.

"To date, we have not ascertained anything to the contrary," the Cypriot foreign minister added.

Iacovou will be received by President of the Republic Karolos Papoulias before he departs to return to Nicosia.

President Papoulias meets with Cyprus FM Iacovou: President of the Republic Karolos Papoulias on Tuesday met with visiting Cyprus foreign minister George Iacovou.

The two men discussed developments in the Cyprus issue during their 80-minute meeting.

[03] Orthodox Synod no longer recognizes Jerusalem Patriarch, Palestinian Authority voices its support

ISTANBUL 25/5/2005 (ANA/A.Kourkoulas)

The Synod's decision allows the three-member panel, currently in charge of the Jerusalem Patriarchate Synod, to proceed with the election of a new patriarch.

Metropolitan of Caesarea Vassilios said that the panel would proceed immediately.

Irineos was among the first to leave Phanar and did not make any statements.

The Palestinian Authority said it would support any decision made by the Ecumenical Patriarchate in Phanar and the Orthodox Synod, in a letter sent to the Synod from Palestinian Prime Minister Ahmed Qurie's office.

According to the letter, the investigative committee established by the Palestinian Authority in order to look into the alleged sale or long-term leasing of Jerusalem Patriarchate properties to Jewish interests, has run into delays due to huge obstacles.

Finally, the Palestinian Authority stated in its letter that Irineos has cooperated with the committee and has authorized it to void related contracts.

Irineos officially becomes 'former' Jerusalem Patriarch: Irineos has officially lost his title of Jerusalem Patriarch following the decision of the Orthodox Synod to not recognize him, after convening in Phanar on Tuesday.

Ecumenical Patriarch Vartholomeos read the synod's decision, saying that after extensive deliberation, the synod decided to address a "brotherly request" to Irineos to resign.

Vartholomeos said that this was requested of Irineos as "a sacrifice for the good of the Church." However, "Irineos refused and the Orthodox Synod decided to denounce him," he said.

In response to related questions, Vartholomeos said that these developments mean that Irineos is now 'former' patriarch of Jerusalem, while the three-member panel, currently in charge of the Jerusalem Patriarchate, has been asked to appoint a locum tenant and to proceed with the election of a new patriarch.

Upon his departure from Phanar, Irineos told reporters "I am still the patriarch."

Orthodox Synod decision regarding Jerusalem Patriarchate must be respected, deputy FM says: Deputy Foreign Minister Panayiotis Skandalakis called on all involved parties to respect the decision made by the Orthodox Synod in Phanar on Tuesday regarding non-recognition of Jerusalem Patriarch Irineos.

"The Orthodox Synod, which convened in Phanar today under the wise presidency of His Eminence Ecumenical Patriarch Vartholomeos to examine with a high sense of duty, as is called for in such circumstances, the problem regarding the Jerusalem Patriarchate, based its decisions - which must be accepted by all - on holy rules and statutes," Skandalakis stated.

"It goes without saying that anyone who differs or does not abide [by these decisions] will be exclusively responsible for any negative developments," he added.

Earlier on Tuesday, the overwhelming majority of the Orthodox Synod decided to no longer recognize Irineos, after allegations that he either sold or leased for the long-term Patriarchate property to Israeli interests.

The Synod's decision allows the three-member panel, currently in charge of the Jerusalem Patriarchate Synod, to proceed with the election of a new patriarch.

Metropolitan of Caesarea Vassilios said that the panel would proceed immediately.

[04] Handful of Turkish protesters again take aim at Ecumenical Patriarchate

ISTANBUL 25/5/2005 (ANA)

Several Orthodox leaders (Patriarchs, Archbishops and Metropolitans) or their plenipotentiaries arrived in Istanbul a day earlier to focus on the ongoing crisis at the Patriarchate of Jerusalem, with embattled Jerusalem Patriarch Eirineos (Irineos) amongst the participants.

"(Ecumenical) Patriarch Vartholomeos is holding a religious Christian tribunal in secular Turkey," read a portion of a handwritten pamphlet distributed by protesters.

The pamphlet was signed "Platform of Fener and Balat residents", with critical views of the Ecumenical Patriarchate mostly reflecting public positions by figures affiliated with Turkey's ultra-nationalist movement, namely, the "grey wolves".

The Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople, based in modern-day Istanbul, dates from the fourth century A.D. when Emperor Constantine the Great moved the Roman Empire's capital from Rome to the city Byzantium, soon renamed Constantinople in his honor.

[05] Gov't again dismisses notion of early elections, counters press article on penalty interest rates

Athens, 25/5/2005 (ANA)

Government spokesman Theodoros Roussopoulos made the comment in response to press questions during his daily briefing the same day. The query regarding "early elections" or a "government reshuffle" often comes up during the regular press briefings.

In an unrelated development, the government spokesman noted that Karamanlis will receive Parliament President Anna Psarouda-Benaki Wednesday morning at his office, while he will subsequently brief President of the Republic Karolos Papoulias at the Presidential Mansion on results of his recent official visit to the United States.

In the afternoon, Karamanlis will attend funeral services for long-time KKE leader Harilaos Florakis.

Meanwhile, in response to a same-day article in an Athens daily claiming that only a low percentage of farm sector borrowers took advantage of a government initiative to write-off penalty interest rates, Roussopoulos said roughly 50,000 applications involving a total of 150,000 loans were submitted to the state-run Agricultural Bank, of which some 36,000 applications involving 108,000 loans qualified under the write-off scheme.

As a result, Roussopoulos countered, approximately 72 percent of farmers with outstanding loans owed to the bank benefited from the law on penalty interest rates.

The front-page article had been published in the Athens daily "Nea".

[06] Communist Party of Greece organizes tribute for late leader Florakis

Athens, 25/5/2005 (ANA)

"Harilaos Florakis was a great fighter and a great friend of the Palestinian people," the Palestinian Authority's representative Marwan Abdelhamid stressed in his tribute to KKE's late honorary president.

"He and his party have always stood at the side of the just struggle of the Palestinian people for freedom and independence and the Palestinian people will always feel gratitude in remembering him," the Palestinian envoy said.

He expressed the deepest condolences of the Palestinian diplomatic mission in Athens - which accompanied him to the gathering at the KKE Central Committee headquarters - and conveyed the condolences of Palestinian Authority president Mahmoud Abbas.

"Harilaos Florakis was not just a political leader within the bounds of Greece, he was a figure of the international revolutionary and Communist movement that always stood by struggling peoples," the envoy added, noting that Florakis had left behind "worthy comrades in KKE that we are sure will continue, with the same consistency, to stand up for the affairs of struggling peoples around the world".

Tribute to the late Florakis was also paid by the leader of the General Confederation of Employees of Greece (GSEE) Christos Polyzogopoulos, head of Greece's largest umbrella trade union organization, while the Athens-Piraeus Prefecture Authority Council passed a resolution stressing that the late politician had "left his mark through his presence and action on the course of the Left in the years after the dictatorship, showing steadiness in his views but also great ability to perceive the messages of the times".

A message lauding Florakis' contribution to political developments in the second half of the 20th century was sent by the public telephone utility workers' union OME-OTE, while the mayor of the Athens suburb of Halandri Grigoris Zafeiropoulos spoke on behalf of the citizens in Florakis' home neighborhood, saying this was a day of sorrow for all, regardless of their political beliefs, since it marked the loss of a personality that had left an indelible mark on Greece's political history.

Russian embassy delegation pays tribute to deceased Greek Communist Party honorary president Harilaos Florakis: A Russian embassy delegation, headed by Ambassador Andrei Vdovin, paid tribute on Tuesday to the Greek Communist Party's (KKE) honorary president Harilaos Florakis who died last Sunday aged 91.

"We pay tribute to the glorified president of KKE. His contribution to the anti-fascist victory was incalculable. We shall honor him always, while his contribution to the strengthening of relations between the Greek and Russian people was also incalculable," Vdovin wrote in the book of condolences opened for Florakis at KKE's Central Committee offices in the Athens district of Perissos.

[07] Socialist International meeting ends in Ramallah; Papandreou refers to importance of dialogue

JERUSALEM 25/5/2005 (ANA/P. Haritos)

Greek main opposition Panhellenic Socialist Movement (PASOK) leader George Papandreou, who attended the sessions of Socialist International, referred to the importance of the dialogue at the current phase but also to the promotion of the role of the citizens. "Here in Ramallah where we Socialists gathered from all over the world within the framework of Socialist International, we have undertaken an initiative. This initiative concerns us to actively show our solidarity to the brother parties who are struggling for peace in the two sides. Palestine and Israel. What is required are specific initiatives for the discussion to proceed between the citizens, the diplomacy of the citizens but also of the parties, so that a common platform of positions to be formed for peace and on how all the sides will be convinced for peace in the region to at last become practice," Papandreou said.

The PASOK leader added:"A Palestinian state and one Israel, which will feel security and good neighborliness. With this objective, we will take initiatives. Already, I have made a proposal for an undertaking of an initiative in Greece. Greece can always play an important role. More so, us Socialists who also have traditional relations but also initiatives which we have taken all the previous years on the Palestinian issue."

Before the end of the sessions of Socialist International, SI President and former Portuguese PM Antonio Guterres proclaimed the PASOK leader as Vice-President of Socialist International.

On the sidelines of the sessions, Papandreou met with representatives of women's sections from the Palestinian Territories and Israel. They concern women who through the active participation in the dialogue between the two sides, are attempting, for decades now, to contribute to the de-escalation of the situation and the shaping of a climate of confidence.

[08] PASOK sec't says party's restructuring proceeding rapidly

Athens, 25/5/2005 (ANA)

In response to press questions, the PASOK secretary noted that "narrow-mindedness" and internal "resistances" continue to be found in the party, while adding that PASOK nevertheless retains "clear-cut opposition positions on all issues".

Moreover, she downplayed press reports of a government initiative to publicize scandals from previous PASOK governments, and echoed her party's statement that the government needs to clarify the term "strategic partnership" uttered during PM Costas Karamanlis' official talks at the White House with US President George W. Bush last week.

[09] Greek and Belgian DMs discuss Balkans, Middle East

BRUSSELS 25/5/2005 (ANA/V. Demiris)

The defense minister briefed his Belgian counterpart on the situation prevailing in the Aegean and on Turkey's activities which are incompatible with international law, the principles of good neighborliness and Turkey's European prospects, which Greece supports, stressing once again that Turkey's activities do not help the consolidation of a climate of security in the wider region.

The two ministers also discussed issues concerning the reorganizing of the armed forces, as well as activities of the EU already underway in the defense sector.

The Belgian side expressed concern over the situation in Africa, particularly in Sudan and the Congo, while the Greek defense minister agreed that the situation shaped in Africa requires special attention by the international community and the EU must act accordingly.

[10] Yiannakou represents Athens at EU ministers' council

BRUSSELS 25/5/2005 (ANA)

On her part, the Greek minister underlined that the education sector should still serve wider goals, meaning that the sector's effectiveness should not be linked with the achievement of quantitative goals.

She also added that education is a national responsibility, which in Greece's case is constitutionally sanctioned as well, whereas employment comprises a mostly Community responsibility.

Finally, she noted that continuing adult education and the learning of foreign languages remain major priorities for Greece.

[11] SYN hopes 'No' vote will prevail in referendum in France on European Constitution

Athens, 25/5/2005 (ANA)

Synaspismos admitted that the referendum in France concerns the whole of Europe and noted that "the fact that the prevalence of either the 'yes' or the 'no' vote will be marginal, has prompted a procedure of substantial opposition to the neo-liberal views and policies, but overall, meditation on the orientation and the course of the European unifying attempt in all the scale of Europe."

[12] Speeding up justice a basic priority for government, justice minister says

Athens, 25/5/2005 (ANA)

"Speeding up the administering of justice constitutes a dominant social demand and a basic priority for the government. With the new measures we are promoting, there will be a marked improvement in the time of administering justice. The Greek citizen will feel it. He will feel precisely, that he will have a breakthrough in justice, since he has been inconvenienced in courts for years to find justice," the minister said.

Replying to a question by the press on comments concerning the government's image, Papaligouras said "the government is experiencing an attack of impressions. The reply is its work and its work is substantive and considerable."

[13] PM to attend events for 50th anniversary of Thessaloniki University polytechnic school

Athens, 25/5/2005 (ANA)

[14] Deputy FM represents Greece at Council of EU Development Cooperation

BRUSSELS 25/5/2005 (ANA)

The decision was made after a two-day meeting held in Brussels.

Deputy Foreign Minister Evripidis Stylianidis, who represented Greece at the meeting, emphasized that Greece has increased the aid it provides to developing countries in the past year from 0.21% of national GDP to 0.23%.

Stylianidis also noted that Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis had sent a letter to the President of the European Commission Jose Barroso in support of the EU's efforts and the goals it has set regarding development cooperation and humanitarian aid.

The Greek deputy minister also stressed the significant contribution Greece made to the countries hit by the deadly tsunami on December 26, 2004, in Southeast Asia, which amounted to ¬ 10 million plus an additional ¬ 10 million disbursed through the UN.

He also emphasized that Greece, along with Portugal, Italy and Germany asked the Council to take into account the economic difficulties the countries affected by tsunami are facing. A relevant clause was thus incorporated into the final decision reached by the ministers of the council.

Referring to development assistance, Stylianidis said, "Of course Africa is the primary target, however, regions such as the West Balkans, the Black Sea, the Middle East and northern Africa, should not be deprived of aid."

Finally, Stylianidis also referred to the government's efforts to raise Greek public awareness regarding humanitarian aid by funding a related campaign.

[15] Greek, Bulgarian, Russian delegations meet on Burgas-Alexandroupoli oil pipeline project

Athens, 25/5/2005 (ANA)

The three-day visit from Tuesday 24 to Wednesday 25 May is designed to evaluate conditions for implementing the project.

The tri-party delegation will then visit Sofia, Thursday to Friday 26-27 May, to meet with representatives of the companies interested in the project, such as TNK-BP, Stroytransgaz, Sovcomflot, CJSC Tise, Rosneft, Tatneft, Lukoil, Sibneft, and Giprotruboprovod.

The Greek delegation is headed by Development Deputy Minister George Salagoudis.

[16] OECD lowers Greek GDP growth rate forecast to 2.8 pct in 2005

Athens, 25/5/2005 (ANA)

In its six-month report on global economic prospects, the OECD, however, lowered its previous forecasts for the country's economic growth rates saying that Greek Gross Domestic Product would rise by 2.8 percent in 2005 and 3.2 percent in 2006.

The Paris-based organization also forecast that unemployment would ease to 10.8 percent this year and to 10.5 percent in 2006, while the inflation rates is forecast to rise to 3.7 percent in 2005 before slowing to 3.4 percent in 2006.

The report said that higher inflation in Greece, compared with Eurozone's average, would undermine competitiveness, although it forecast a gradual decline in the country's current accounts deficit.

OECD said that Greece's fiscal condition was "very fragile" and stressed the need to fully implement a government restructuring program, including cutbacks in primary spending, while it noted that moves to reform the tax system should not be allowed to raise hurdles in fiscal restructuring.

The Organization said that more flexibility in the labor market and boosting competitiveness in product markets would help promoting employment and competitiveness in the country and bridge a gap with Eurozone's inflation rate. The OECD expects the Greek economy to slow to 2.8 percent in 2005 before rising to 3.2 percent next year. Inflation is projected at 3.7 percent in 2005 and 3.4 pct in 2006, while private consumption growth rate is projected to 3.0 percent this year and to 3.1 percent in 2006.

OECD said the country's general government deficit was expected to ease to 3.8 percent of GDP this year, from 6.0 percent in 2004, and to fall to 3.5 percent in 2006. Greece's current accounts deficit is projected to fall to 5.2 percent of GDP in 2005, from 5.3 pct last year, and to 4.9 percent in 2006.

[17] Federation of Greek Industries president briefs PM on developments in economy

Athens, 25/5/2005 (ANA)

Kyriakopoulos also briefed Karamanlis on the results of his recent visit to Japan in the framework of the Greek government and business mission on the EXPO exhibition in which our country is participating.

Emerging from the Maximos Mansion, Kyriakopoulos said that in Greece "there are prospects for us to have a further considerable good course in the economy."

The prime minister also had a meeting on Tuesday with businessman Giorgos David.

[18] Trade unions oppose change in industrial relations

Athens, 25/5/2005 (ANA)

Meeting were the General Confederation of Employees of Greece, the country's largest trade union umbrella group, and unions of major state companies.

"We will reject any distinction made between existing and new employees, and call on the government, in turn, to reject any tactic of degrading state companies," unions said in a statement.

Management should implement existing the existing regime of industrial relations in public corporations; and any unification of pension funds should not burden IKA, the main state fund, the statement said.

Union leaders are to meet next week to decide an action plan, which may include strikes, the statement added.

[19] Eurozone trade surplus at 4.2 bln euros

BRUSSELS 25/5/2005 (ANA/M Spinthourakis)

Initial estimates for the EU25's trade was a 6.5 billion euro deficit in March versus a shortfall of 1.7 billion in the same month of 2004, the EU's statistics agency said in a routine report.

Among member states in January-February 2005, the largest surplus was observed in Germany at 26.5 billion euros.

The highest deficit was posted by the United Kingdom at 15.6 billon, followed by Spain with a deficit of 10.1 billion and Greece a shortfall of 4.5 billion euros.

Greek exports in January-February 2005 totalled 1.9 billion euros, and imports 6.4 billion euros, the report said.

[20] EU Commission confirms investigation into suspected EU subsidy fraud in Greece

Athens, 25/5/2005 (ANA)

The Commission was replying to a question put by Coalition MEP Dimitris Papadimoulis concerning the activities of 12 companies in northern Greece that were subsidized with EU funds under developmental law.

They are suspected of having defrauded the Greek State with the assistance of two Swiss "dummy" companies using the "triangular transaction" method. The companies involved would purchase machinery from Italy and Germany, but the two Swiss companies would intervene in the export process and issue new invoices for the machinery that were up to 10 times higher than their original value.

According to the Commission, parallel investigations are currently being conducted by the Greek financial crimes squad SDOE and the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF). They said OLAF opened a file on the case after Swiss judicial authority's asked for its assistance in carrying out a request placed by Greek judicial authorities.

If the suspicions of fraud are confirmed, measures to protect Community funds will be taken, the Commission added.

[21] Greek current accounts deficit up 76 pct in 1st quarter

Athens, 25/5/2005 (ANA)

The central bank, in its monthly report, said the country's current accounts deficit rose to 3.829 billion euros, while the country's trade deficit rose by 723 million euros over the same period, reflecting higher payments for the purchase of ships (841 million euros).

The central bank also attributed the worsening of the balance to a 12-

percent increase in the country's trade deficit, due to rising international oil prices, to a 44.4-percent rise in interest payment and to lower EU fund inflows (down 6.4 percent from the same period last year).

The services' surplus rose by 113 million euros, reflecting a 270 million euros increase of the country's shipping foreign exchange, while tourism foreign exchange rose 18.1 percent or 95 million euros. The transfers surplus eased by 662 million euros, reflecting lower transfers from the EU over the same period.

Net direct investments recorded a 30-mln-euro outflow in the January-March period, compared with an inflow of 525 million euros last year, while portfolio investments recorded a net outflow of 1.014 billion euros.

The other investments category recorded a net inflow of 4.464 billion euros in the first quarter of 2005.

[22] Gov't replies to EU query on bank pensions

Athens, 25/5/2005 (ANA)

Replying to a query from the European Union's competition department, the ministry said in a letter that the measure sought to avoid piecemeal arrangements for the country's social insurance system in line with the bloc's Lisbon strategy.

The EU query was sparked by an article in www.reporter.gr, a Greek financial newswire.

Bank unions oppose incorporation of their pension fund into the main state system, saying their pensioners would lose out.

[23] Seminar on investment opportunities in western Balkans

Athens, 25/5/2005 (ANA)

Arranging the forum are the Thessaloniki Chamber of Trade and Industry with the Greek embassy in Vienna, the foreign ministry, and the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency, which belongs to the world bank.

[24] Development Minister focuses on R&D issues during meeting with directors of research centers

Athens, 25/5/2005 (ANA)

During the meeting, participants exchanged views on how the country's research centers and 48 institutes can operate in the best possible way in order to play a leading role in the field of research and technology. They also discussed how the centers and institutes can partner with universities and businesses.

[25] Stocks rise in low turnover

Athens, 25/5/2005 (ANA)

The Athens general share index closed at 2,903.30 points, marking a rise of 0.42%. Turnover was 94.2 million euros.

The FTSE/ASE-20 index for high capitalization shares ended 0.45% up; the FTSE/ASE-40 for medium cap stocks closed 0.11% up; and the FTSE/ASE-80 for small cap shares finished 0.09% down.

Of stocks traded, declines led advances at 143 to 93 with 97 remaining unchanged.

[26] Reception held at PM's offices for Greece's winning Eurovision team

Athens, 25/5/2005 (ANA)

As she departed from the meeting, the Greek-Swedish singer said the prime minister had been photographed with them, given them commemorative gifts and had congratulated all those who contributed to Greece's success.

Song writer Christos Dantis and lyric writer Natalia Germanou said the premier had appeared very happy, while Dantis noted that the Greek victory would be very beneficial for the country, Greek tourism and Greek music.

He also rejected criticism that the response to the victory had been excessive, pointing out that Greece had been vying for a Eurovision win for the past 31 years without success.

Government spokesman Theodoros Roussopoulos also defended his decision to meet Paparizou and the rest of the Greek team at Athens airport on their return from Kiev on Monday, saying that the Greeks who achieved distinctions should be honored.

"We must get away from this miserly climate. This Eurovision first place has given Greece the chance to once again be heard throughout the world in a positive way. And the country must take advantage of this message to boost the tourist inflow," the spokesman said.

Asked how much the Greek entry and its promotion had cost, Roussopoulos referred to a statement by the head of Greece's state television channel ERT, which had been in charge of the entire campaign, who said that all the costs had been covered and that there was now a surplus of 400,000 euros, as well as the huge profits from the country's international promotion.

[27] Alternate culture minister inaugurates conference on Olympic Truce

Athens, 25/5/2005 (ANA)

"For the first time representatives of the political and sports world from embattled regions of the planet will sit at the same table and will speak about peace," she said.

"Local conflicts, violence, terrorism and the international conditions of insecurity prevailing in the world today in general bring the Olympic Truce to the forefront once again, rendering it not merely useful but necessary and well," Petralia added.

The minister also announced her proposal on the Olympic Truce conference taking place at Ancient Olympia on an annual basis.

Petralia further referred to the government's plans for Ancient Olympia, saying that "the government's desire in post-Olympic Games Greece is for Ancient Olympia to emerge as the centre of post-Olympic Games utilization, while the benefits from the Olympic Games must be capitalized to enable the Olympic memory to remain alive."

[28] DVD with works of 22 Greek artists prepared by Hellenic Academy of Modern Art

Athens, 25/5/2005 (ANA)

HAMA is a non-profit research society whose main purpose is to acquaint international public opinion with modern Greek art and Greek artists.

The DVD is entitled "Epitome of Ecumenical Greek Art" and was released under the aegis of the General Secretariat for Overseas Greeks, with the support of Parliament President Anna Psarouda-Benaki.

The DVD was presented at an event in Zappeion on Monday evening by HAMA president Aspasia Leventi, who said it will come out in 3,000 copies that will be distributed free and not go on sale, while the artists themselves will not have copyright to the material.

Overall, it is envisaged that a total of 11,000 copies of all three DVDs will be circulated in 2005 and that they will be in four languages, including Chinese. They will showcase 80 Greeks artists and 1,500 works of art.

[29] Former police chief denies giving deposition on N17 attack at Louizis Riankour

Athens, 25/5/2005 (ANA)

According to Makris, the deposition is fabricated and false and forms part of a "mud-slinging campaign" against himself and current Greek Police (ELAS) chief George Aggelakos.

The articles in the press claim that the deposition in question was made by Makris in 1992 and was contained in Tseva's files, which have now disappeared. A copy of the alleged deposition was given to the public prosecutor's office by Maria Tsinteri, after her name was linked with the affair by the press three years earlier, amid speculation that she was the woman known as "Anna of Riankour" that had provided information on N17.

Tsinteri has now sued Makris for libel and perjury, while the document in question also implicates current police chief Aggelakos, who is supposed to have pocketed four million drachmas from the reward on N17.

In a statement on Tuesday, Makris denies giving any deposition and points out that the document produced by Tsinteri does not bear his signature. Regarding the references to Aggelakos, meanwhile, he points out that Aggelakos was a low-ranking police officer in 1992 when the events took place, who had been serving with the narcotics squad and had absolutely no involvement in terrorist-related issues.

[30] Internet users to have option of website names in Greek from July 4

Athens, 25/5/2005 (ANA)

[31] Special Olympics for Greece to be held in Ioannina, under aegis of President Papoulias

Athens, 25/5/2005 (ANA)

The program for the games was announced on Tuesday at a press conference held in Zappeion.

[32] Cyprus government to expose illegality in occupied north, says Spokesman

NICOSIA 25/5/2005 (CNA/ANA)

Tuesday Government Spokesman Kypros Chrysostomides.

The spokesman said this would be the response of the government to a letter by Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat to the UN concerning law suits by Greek Cypriots against Turkish Cypriots with regard to their properties in the Turkish north.

The Spokesman pointed out that these properties belong to Greek Cypriots and their ownership rights have not been affected by the Turkish occupation and continued illegality.

Commenting on Talat's action to send a letter to UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan and members of the European Union asking them to mediate on the issue, the Spokesman said that in these letters Talat avoids mentioning that the said properties belong to Greek Cypriots.

Asked how the government will handle the Talat letters, the Spokesman said "the government is working very hard to expose the actual magnitude and the illegality of this theft of Greek Cypriot properties in the Turkish occupied area of Cyprus."

[33] Cyprus House President: Illegal sales of Greek Cypriot property must stop

NICOSIA 25/5/2005 (CNA/ANA)

''This is the message that has to be sent to Mr. Talat. It is in their hands to put an end to these law suits against Turkish Cypriots,'' Christofias said.

Christofias was commenting on a letter Talat had sent to UN Secretary General Kofi Annan and EU members asking for their mediation to stop Greek Cypriot recourses against Turkish Cypriots with regard to the illegal exploitation of their properties in the occupied areas.

''The right to property is sacred. Those who are so interested in a mutually accepted solution, the Americans, the British, the UN, must ensure that the property issue, one of the most difficult aspects of the Cyprus problem, does not deteriorate to become even more complex than it already is,'' he added.

He said that last year he had put forward two proposals to the Turkish Cypriots with regard to this issue, which they have accepted.

The first has to do with the resumption of bilateral contacts between political parties from both communities so that the Turkish Cypriots understand the concerns of the Greek Cypriots that led them to reject the Annan plan (a UN proposed solution).

The second proposal was a call to Talat to end the illegal exploitation and sale of Greek Cypriot properties to foreigners and to terminate construction on Greek Cypriot properties.

Christofias said the proposals were rejected.

''In this case Talat must not criticize those who file law suits before European courts to claim their rights,'' he said.

[34] US warns citizens of risks in property deals in occupied Cyprus

NICOSIA 25/5/2005 (CNA/ANA)

Cyprus has expressed satisfaction that a directive to this effect was posted on the State Department's website and said this was achieved after the coordinated efforts of the Foreign Ministry, overseas Hellenes and American friends of Cyprus.

''U.S. Citizens who buy or lease property, particularly in the area administered by Turkish Cypriots, may find their ownership challenged by people displaced in 1974. Prospective property buyers should seek legal advice before buying,'' the directive says.

[35] Russian FM discourages use of illegal entry points into Cyprus

NICOSIA 25/5/2005 (CNA/ANA)

It points out that decisions by Cypriot courts on such matters can be executed in Russia as well, a press release issued by the Cyprus Foreign Ministry said.

The travel advice said that UN resolutions on Cyprus still apply. The resolutions call on all members of the international community not to recognize any other state than the Republic of Cyprus, to respect Cyprus' sovereignty, its territorial integrity and not give any support to the secessionist entity in the north of the island.

It noted decisions by the internationally recognized Cyprus government declaring illegal points of entry those ports and airports in the occupied areas.

Russian citizens are asked to arrive in Cyprus only through the points of entry controlled by the Cyprus government.

On the purchase of land and on business contracts in the occupied areas, the advice recommends that Russians take into account the right of property of Greek Cypriots who own property in the occupied north and warn that any wrong move could lead to court proceedings.

[36] Cyprus Republic spends 157 m. pounds in support of Turkish Cypriots

NICOSIA 25/5/2005 (CNA/ANA)

He said that part of this amount has been spent by Greek Cypriots who visit Cyprus' Turkish occupied areas, part of it went on medical treatment of Turkish Cypriots, on salaries of Turkish Cypriots working in the government controlled areas, on social security contributions and on fees of Turkish Cypriot students studying at private schools.

He said it is estimated that 2,300,000 visits by Greek Cypriots to the occupied areas have taken place between April 2003 and December 2004.

If on average each individual has spent ten pounds per visit, then some 25 million Cyprus pounds has been spent in the north, he explained.

On social security contributions, he said that ''18,800,000 was paid in 2003-2004 and approximately 5,000 Turkish Cypriots are working in the free areas of the Republic, who have earned about 107,3000,000 pounds.'' (One Cyprus pounds is trading at around 1.6 US dollars).

He said 24,420 Turkish Cypriots have received medical treatment at state hospitals, at an estimated cost of 4 million.

During the same period, the fees paid for Turkish Cypriots students studying at private schools amounted to 2,358,000 pounds.

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