Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English, 05-05-31

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

CONTENTS

[01] Mixed reactions to French 'no' in EU constitution referendum

[02] Deputy FM Valinakis remarks on the French referendum on the European Constitution

[03] Main opposition leader comments on EU Constitution, criticizes gov't on domestic issues

[04] Valinakis holds talks with Egyptian FM and Libyan Deputy FM on sidelines of Euro-Mediterranean ministerial conference

[05] FM Molyviatis receives high-ranking US Congressional delegation

[06] PM Karamanlis inaugurates health centre

[07] PM's schedule for Tuesday

[08] Greek Parliament president on visit to Japan

[09] Deputy FM Skandalidis in Istanbul on Tuesday

[10] Petra metropolitan elected to be 'locum tenens' for Jerusalem Patriarchate

[11] Ecumenical Patriarch receives delegation of retired officers, comments on Greek-Turkish relations, the Balkans

[12] Draft law tabled on system of evaluation of higher education institutions

[13] Turkish warplanes infringe Athens FIR, violate national air space

[14] Gov't stoutly defends landmark OTE deal with employees' union

[15] Finmin welcomes "maturity" of telecom union over early retirement deal

[16] PM Karamanlis confers with FinMin Alogoskoufis on structural reforms

[17] Greek tourism school to reopen in Cairo

[18] PM Karamanlis not afraid to carry out necessary reforms, Athens Mayor tells 'Ta Nea' daily

[19] National town planning project will be complete in 2006, Environment Minister says

[20] Aegean Minister Pavlidis meets EU Commissioner Kroes

[21] Greek fuel distribution companies' results improved in 2004, report

[22] Athens Commercial Chamber and Ukrainian delegation explore Greek-Ukrainian business prospects

[23] Athens Mayor speaks on maritime issues at Piraeus Maritime Club

[24] Greek exports to Turkey up 24.2% in Jan-Apr 2005 period

[25] Greek farm production up in 2004, report

[26] Greek trade deficit up 10.8 pct in 1st quarter, yr/yr

[27] Budget deficit down 11 percent in Jan-April, yr/yr

[28] MICROSOFT sponsorship to Greek teachers and students

[29] Reception for foreign ambassadors to present 70th TIF

[30] Bank workers to strike June 7-8 over social insurance

[31] Academics strike, students protest against university evaluation bill

[32] 41.7 percent of Greeks will not go away on vacation this summer - Hellenic Consumers' Centre survey

[33] Stocks rise in light trade, brush off French "No" vote

[34] Crete's Seaworld to be Mediterranean's largest aquarium, development minister says

[35] Lefkas Arts and Letters Festival to celebrate 50th anniversary under UN aegis

[36] President Papoulias receives Cypriot reservist commandos

[37] Transport ministry to take steps to stop abuse of driving test system

[38] UN: Resumption of Cyprus talks depends whether criteria are met

[39] Cyprus says US tolerant of illegal visit

[40] Cyprus supports EU decision on Turkey's talks

[01] Mixed reactions to French 'no' in EU constitution referendum

Athens, 31/5/2005 (ANA)

Prime minister Costas Karamanlis, in a written statement, stressed that "the verdict of the French people, and every people's, is respected", but at the same time added that the result of the French referendum was a "development that troubles us".

"We must not forget, however -- and we do not forget -- that the course of European integration has never been smooth. From within differences and even crises, the European Union has managed to move ahead, presenting achievements that are unique in history, to the benefit of peace, democracy and prosperity of the peoples. Our aspiration remains to advance European unification. The effort does not stop here. The procedures provided for its (the Euro-constitution's) ratification in the other member states has not been completed yet. They must proceed regularly, without postponements, as foreseen," Karamanlis added.

Parliament President Anna Psarouda-Benaki, currently in Japan on an official visit, said the result was "an unpleasant development for the progress of European integration" but stressed that the French verdict will not be an obstacle and that the other countries will "continue undeterred".

Psarouda-Benaki is in Japan at the invitation of Japanese House of Representatives Speaker Yohei Kono.

Following the French 'no', Europe was "entering a period of intense pondering, but the course of European unification continues", main opposition PASOK Political Council for Foreign Affairs, Security and Defense director Christos Papoutsis said in a statement.

Papoutsis noted that the need was obvious for a substantive and in-depth public dialogue on the characteristics that the citizens desired for the European society of the future, and underscored the need for strengthening the potential and efficiency of the European Union so as to give solutions to the citizens' problems and guarantee their quality of life.

"The French 'no' will substantially affect the procedures underway for the future enlargement, orientation and financing of the citizens of the Union. The political leaderships in the member states and the Union's institutional bodies should utilize the French 'no' as an opportunity for clarification of the European policies and re-determination of the targets and choices for security, development, employment and solidarity in society," Papoutsis said.

The Communist Party of Greece (KKE), in an announcement, said it considered as "a very positive event" the French people's "condemnation of the so-called 'Euro-constitution'."

"The percentage in favor of the 'no' shows that the working class and the popular strata, which are experiencing the unemployment, the elastic labor relations, the razing of social insurance and other rights, poverty and high prices -- in other words the anti-popular policy of the EU and its governments -- have reached certain conclusions. The French people did not bow to the pressures, the threats and the ideological terrorism of the imperialistic agencies and their allies. The 'No' constitutes an example of insubordination and disobedience to the EU barbarity. It is an important indication of uplifting and reinforcement of the popular struggles. All those warning of impending chaos, disaster and isolation are doing so because they fear that the message will spread against the policy of plutocracy, whose sovereignty is further consolidated and shielded by the 'Euro-constitution'. The 'No' is a first step in the struggle against the EU. The stronger the blows delivered by the peoples to the structure of the EU, until it is demolished, the closer that Europe will come to the popular rights, peace, and socialism," the KKE announcement said.

Coalition of the Left, Movements and Ecology (SYN) leader Alekos Alavanos, said that "we welcome the awakening of the social conscience of a Europe that seeks the right to work and peace, and opposes the present-day Europe of bureaucracy of the 'accommodated'. We welcome the cooperation of the leftists and communists, the radicals, the objecting socialists and the Greens, that comprised the backbone of the social 'No', and which, for us in Greece, constitutes a great example".

In a press conference on Monday, Alavanos said that the French rejection was a direct criticism of the policies adopted by the EU on major social and economic problems, such as unemployment, the social state, social insurance, labor relations but also on peace and autonomy from the United States.

He said the result established the conditions for "another kind of Europe".

[02] Deputy FM Valinakis remarks on the French referendum on the European Constitution

LUXEMBOURG 31/5/2005 (ANA/N. Melissova)

"At the Euro-Mediterranean Cooperation foreign ministers conference, our issue is of course the European Union's relations with its Mediterranean neighbors. However, I can tell you that the prevailing topic is yesterday's referendum in France on the European Constitution. There is concern, but no dramatic reaction. The problem is political, not legal, but the road is still long. We all say that the up to now course of the European Union proceeds through compromises and agreements, but also through clashes and crises. Europe has always proceeded forward after crises. It is a horse that sometimes may kick, but later runs faster. Now that Europe will have its ears wide-open after the French referendum, we must take the necessary steps. Furthermore, we must better and more explain Europe to the European citizens. Europe's vision remains extremely strong for all its neighboring peoples," Deputy Foreign Minister Valinakis said.

Gov't on Cyprus, Turkey's EU prospects after France's 'no' vote: The Greek government on Monday merely referred to an ongoing "phase of preparation" in answer to press questions on whether the current diplomatic activity surrounding the Cyprus issue will lead to a new round of negotiations for a solution.

Government spokesman Theodoros Roussopoulos reiterated Athens' standing goal of a viable and just solution to the long-standing Cyprus problem, while noting that whatever and whenever any initiative is assumed, "it must be accompanied by relevant preparations, so that all the assurances exist for its successful conclusion, this time around".

Asked about the effect that France's "no" vote to the EU Constitution will have on Turkey's European Union prospects, Roussopoulos cited the Union's decision last December to begin accession negotiations with Turkey.

Finally, queried on whether the Greek government will seek a referendum on its stance vis-a-vis the Turkish candidacy, the spokesman said no such consideration has been given.

[03] Main opposition leader comments on EU Constitution, criticizes gov't on domestic issues

Athens, 31/5/2005 (ANA)

"If we say 'no' to the European Constitution, we will revert back to the Nice Treaty," he said.

"The Nice Treaty does not contain clauses, such as the one regarding solidarity which guarantees the EU's economic and military contribution to countries under attack. It doesn't give European Parliament the voice we want it to have and it does not secure the stronger EU foreign policy we want and which the Constitution legislates through the post of EU Foreign Minister," he added.

According to Papandreou, the European Constitution also upgrades citizens' rights.

Speaking about the outcome of France's referendum on the EU Treaty, whereby approximately 55% of the French voted against it, Papandreou said that "it affects us," since it can result in significant economic consequences. According to the PASOK President, France's 'no' carries with it a risk of introspection and can prove a stumbling block for economic convergence which will affect economically-weaker countries.

He said that many will interpret the result of the French referendum in association with EU enlargement. However, he said, PASOK governments had always acted on the basis of Balkan countries, Turkey and Cyprus becoming EU members. Papandreou said that EU enlargement should not stop because of France's 'no' vote.

Turning his attention to domestic issues, Papandreou accused the government of ''promoting conservative views which foster insecurity, pessimism and a lack of self-confidence.''

In contrast, he said, the progressive viewpoint is that the time is right for major and daring reforms.

He predicted that PASOK will again be in office soon and accused the New Democracy government of having failed 'to take a step forward' in the 15 months it has been in power.

Papandreou said that "we were ready to agree to the major changes the country was in need of. We had formulated our proposals, but the government did not listen to us. Now, that things have turned difficult they [the government] are looking for answers, one of which is to quickly sell state property to make up for money they lose daily as a result of poor management."

[04] Valinakis holds talks with Egyptian FM and Libyan Deputy FM on sidelines of Euro-Mediterranean ministerial conference

LUXEMBOURG 31/5/2005 (ANA/N. Melissova)

The meeting with the Egyptian foreign minister was held in a cordial climate. They discussed bilateral issues and issues of regional and international interest in the context of the broader Euro-Mediterranean relations.

On the level of bilateral relations, they discussed ways to further strengthen trade, with emphasis on agricultural products.

Gheit thanked Valinakis on Greece's consistent stance in the efforts for a just solution to the Palestinian issue.

With his Libyan counterpart, an extensive review was made on bilateral relations and the mutual will was underlined for promoting cooperation in the political, commerce-economic and cultural sectors.

Valinakis welcomed the improvement of Libya's relations with the European Union and briefed his counterpart on issues of Greek interest. The two undersecretaries agreed to continue their cooperation in Tripoli, Libya, which he will visit at the invitation of his Libyan counterpart.

The 7th Euro-Mediterranean ministerial conference, which concludes its sessions on Tuesday afternoon, is taking place in the shadow of France's "No" in the referendum on the European Constitution, an issue which is expected, even unofficially, to prevail during the discussions of the conference's sessions.

According to diplomatic sources, it was expected that during Monday's dinner, discussion will centre on "current international issues, with the Middle East being the focus."

On Monday, first day of the conference, meetings of the troika were held with the Mediterranean partners and the plenum of the ministerial conference will convene on Tuesday.

The objective of the sessions is the preparation of the summit meeting in Barcelona in November when a review will be made of the 10 years from the start of the Barcelona Procedure (with which was institutionalized the Euro-Mediterranean Co-operation) as well as the establishment of new directives for the future.

[05] FM Molyviatis receives high-ranking US Congressional delegation

Athens, 31/5/2005 (ANA)

The high-ranking US delegation, which is headed by Sen. Richard C. Shelby (R-Ala.), is also scheduled to meet with Bank of Greece Gov. Nikos Garganas and Deputy Economy Minister Petros Doukas.

[06] PM Karamanlis inaugurates health centre

Athens, 31/5/2005 (ANA)

During the inauguration, Karamanlis emphasized that the government's goal is to open health centers throughout the country's major cities in an effort to relieve the hospital system. The centers are meant to serve as the gate to primary care, he said.

The prime minister also said that general practitioners are the backbone of the National Health System, which was not completed since laws governing primary health care were never implemented.

"We have committed ourselves to completing this project so that the National Health System can provide modern, quality health services to citizens in every part of the country," he stressed.

Karamanlis announced that a second health centre will begin operating in Kalyvia during the summer, while other such centers are already under construction in Keratsini, Peristeri and Thessaloniki.

The health ministry's political leadership and members of the opposition were present at the inauguration.

Main opposition criticizes government's performance in health care: Evangelos Venizelos, head of the major opposition PASOK's division on employment, social affairs and health, accused the government of inaugurating a facility that has been operating since PASOK was still in office.

"Mr. Karamanlis today inaugurated Vyronas' Health Centre, which not only is a PASOK project, but which has been in operation since February 2004," he said.

He also accused the government of having "immobilized" the primary care sector for the past 15 months, "since it neither promotes PASOK's relevant law nor has it brought a new proposal to Parliament for discussion."

In response, Health Minister Nikitas Kaklamanis said: "If (PASOK leader) Mr. George] Papandreou, who was invited to the opening of the first Urban Health Centre in Vyronas, had designated Mr. Evangelos Venizelos as his representative, then the latter, either from the Prime Minister's speech or from the employees of the centre, would have received answers to all the issues he raises in his 'petty partisan' statement.

"I hope that at the next opening, that of the Multiclinic, he will find something more credible to say in his statement. In any case, Vyronas' residents, with their presence, gave their own answer," Kaklamanis concluded.

[07] PM's schedule for Tuesday

Athens, 31/5/2005 (ANA)

Afterwards, the premier will meet at the Maximos Mansion with a group of ethnic Greek journalists employed at overseas mass media.

[08] Greek Parliament president on visit to Japan

Athens, 31/5/2005 (ANA)

After the meeting, she said that relations between Greece and Japan had recently undergone a revival and that communication between the two countries was currently at a very satisfactory level.

"This communication can act as the basis for positive results in cooperation between the two countries, both on a political and on an economic level," she said.

Kono referred to Greece's long history, expressing his admiration and regard, while noting that relations between Greece and Japan were at very good level and that he intended to assist in further developing and supporting them.

Earlier, Psarouda-Benaki visited the University of Keio for talks with the faculty and students, while on Tuesday she is due to visit the Palace for an audience with Emperor Akihito, after which she is to meet Prime Minister Junihiro Koizumi and the President of the Japanese House of Councillors (Upper House) Chikage Oogi.

[09] Deputy FM Skandalidis in Istanbul on Tuesday

Athens, 31/5/2005 (ANA)

While in Istanbul, Skandalidis would be received by Ecumenical Patriarch Vartholomeos, the announcement added.

[10] Petra metropolitan elected to be 'locum tenens' for Jerusalem Patriarchate

JERUSALEM 31/5/2005 (ANA - P. Haritos)

Meanwhile, the deposed former patriarch Irineos refused to hand over his diplomatic passport to a Greek Consulate employee that called on his residence at the Patriarchate.

Irineos demanded that he be given a copy of the Greek foreign ministry decision to remove his previous diplomatic passport and replace this with a new one.

The Greek foreign ministry announced that it had issued a temporary passport for Irineos on Friday, bearing his name and title as former Jerusalem Patriarch.

Despite having lost the support of his own parishioners and clergy and a decision by an all-Church Synod in Istanbul to cease to recognize him as patriarch, Irineos insists that he continues to be the rightful patriarch of Jerusalem. He was elected in 2001 and deposed over a controversy concerning property deals that handed Church land over to Israeli developers.

[11] Ecumenical Patriarch receives delegation of retired officers, comments on Greek-Turkish relations, the Balkans

ISTANBUL 31/5/2005 (ANA/A.Kourkoulas)

Referring to Greek-Turkish relations, Vartholomeos said: "Our Patriarchate never stopped speaking, praying and working towards achieving brotherly relations between the two neighboring countries.

"We want peace and constructive cooperation, friendship and mutual respect, instead of continuous tension which leads both countries to spend a large share of their budgets on armaments," he added.

Commenting on the situation in the Balkans, the patriarch said that the region "has undergone a lot [of tribulations] and continues to do so due to a lack of trust, and the prevalence of nationalistic and religious fanaticism, unfortunately; particularly, after the fall of communism."

He said that the Ecumenical Patriarchate has undertaken an initiative which aims at bringing Christians, Jews, and Muslims in the region closer together.

Union President, Vice Admiral Triantafyllos Papageorgiou, headed the 160-member delegation that visited Phanar.

[12] Draft law tabled on system of evaluation of higher education institutions

Athens, 31/5/2005 (ANA)

The draft law provides for the evaluation of every AEI, pre-graduate and post-graduate studies and other services which are offered by each AEI academic unit.

[13] Turkish warplanes infringe Athens FIR, violate national air space

Athens, 31/5/2005 (ANA)

The 42 Turkish warplanes were recognized and intercepted by corresponding Greek fighter jets, while in four cases the procedure of interception developed into a mock dog-fight.

It was reported that 13 of the 17 Turkish formations were armed.

[14] Gov't stoutly defends landmark OTE deal with employees' union

Athens, 31/5/2005 (ANA)

A purported ground-breaking change in the tenure status of OTE employees, by all accounts focusing only on new hirings, has also been repeatedly cited in the local press, although the official text of the agreement has not been unveiled as yet.

During his daily press briefing, government spokesman Theodoros Roussopoulos again referred to a "courageous decision taken in cooperation with OME-OTE employees," a reference to the trade union representing the bourse-listed company's employees.

The leadership of OME-OTE, which signed the agreement following drawn-out talks with the company's state-appointed management over the past few months, in turn came under sharp criticism by the GSEE trade umbrella group as well as main opposition PASOK over the weekend, with GSEE leader Christos Polyzogopoulos threatening to expel PASOK-affiliated OME-OTE board members from the national union.

"This agreement opens new roads to development and competitiveness, and eliminates paths that led to favoritism ... A state's credibility is judged by the manner in which it deals with such issues, issues that have been inherited by this government from the past," Roussopoulos said in reply to a barrage of queries on the matter.

"The government is dealing with these issues so that inequities don't arise in the future and so that problems emanating from the past are solved in a satisfactory manner. Search in other (past) governments for those that helped create such phenomena of inequity," he added.

Moreover, Roussopoulos said the government's dilemma was whether to buck a problem to the future or solve it now. "If we chose the former the state would appear to (OTE) employees as untrustworthy; we chose the second option because it will prevent the creation of new 'penthouses' and also help resolve problems to the benefit of employees, OTE and the Greek economy," the spokesman said, adding:

"It's not by chance that 77 percent of OME-OTE's membership backs this solution".

Roussopoulos pointed to the problems bedeviling public broadcaster ERT-SA, charging that a voluntary early retirement scheme prior to 2000 that reduced 1,300 staffers from that company's payroll was followed up by the previous PASOK government with the mass hiring of contract employees at a rate that exceeded those leaving with early retirement.

"Therefore, a second problem, namely, that of contract employees was created, one that the current government was also called on to solve," he replied to a relevant press question.

Furthermore, he again dismissed criticism that the cost of the agreement will unduly burden Greek taxpayers as a whole, noting that taxpayers would continue paying again and again in the future for various financial losses incurred by the greater public sector if the government remained tied to "past policy".

Finally, the spokesman clarified that the OTE agreement relates only to that utility, and that no announcements are pending for other state-run public enterprises or companies.

As far as bank sector pension reform is concerned -- another priority on the government's agenda after the announcement of the OTE deal -- Roussopoulos stressed that "the problem would not have arose if the previous government had solved it by using laws already on the books. At this point a dialogue is continuing, when it concludes relevant announcements will be made."

[15] Finmin welcomes "maturity" of telecom union over early retirement deal

Athens, 31/5/2005 (ANA)

"Management and union representatives have shown great maturity and a great sense of responsibility at a critical moment for restructuring of the company" Alogoskoufis said.

The weekend pact on the retirement scheme, which management says is key to an overhaul within the sprawling and overstaffed OTE group, ended months of tough bargaining.

The net cost of the voluntary redundancies for 6,000 staff is 1.5 billion euros, with 20% of the sum to be shouldered by the state and the remaining 80% from savings in operational spending resulting from the plan, Alogoskoufis said.

"This agreement has demonstrated that consensus can be attained over the economy and that the quest for consensus solutions to problems can bring results," the minister added.

The pact, which averted the prospect of mass redundancies or bankruptcy of the company, is also likely to facilitate a further flotation of OTE's stock on the bourse, according to ministry officials.

Opposing the pact were PASKE, a trade union group aligned to the main opposition PASOK party, and POST, a staff group at Hellenic Post Offices. Both claimed that the agreement signed by the OTE union's president, a member of PASKE, jeopardized the existing status of industrial relations at the expense of workers in any state-run corporation.

Greek commerce urges for full privatization of Hellenic Telecoms: Greece's National Association of Commerce on Monday said that a labor agreement in Hellenic Telecommunications Organization -envisaging an early retirement scheme for 6,200 of its workers- should be burden Greek taxpayers but its cost should be covered exclusively by the organization and its shareholders.

Dimitris Armenakis, president of the Association, noted that the deal was very significant for Hellenic Telecommunications Organization and its expansion strategy in the Southeastern Europe. "The next step must be a full privatization of the organization and its management, as part of the state's effort to gradually leave business activities," Armenakis said.

[16] PM Karamanlis confers with FinMin Alogoskoufis on structural reforms

Athens, 31/5/2005 (ANA)

Alogoskoufis told reporters after the meeting that there has already been an important development, referring to the "consensus agreement" reached at the Hellenic Telecoms Organization (OTE) for streamlining the organization, while he also noted that there were "open issues" such as the bank employees' social insurance, and the necessary reforms in the economy.

Questioned on the cost of the OTE agreement, Alogoskoufis said that when the overall arrangement is presented, the government would have all the data. He added that the cost had been passed on to the public sector from the 'bad choices' of the preceding governments.

The government would proceed to arrangements regarding the bank employees' social insurance in the next two weeks, which would affect the Agricultural Bank and the Emporiki (Commercial) Bank.

[17] Greek tourism school to reopen in Cairo

CAIRO 31/5/2005 (ANA/Nikos Katsikas)

According to the pact signed by Tourism Development Minister Dimitris Avramopoulos and his Egyptian counterpart, Mohamed Al Magrabi, the school, which had closed due to a cash shortage, will operate under the aegis of the two countries' governments.

In the past, the Melachrinio School produced mostly Greek graduates, who excelled professionally in hotels around the world.

"Reopening of this Greek school is tangible proof of the cooperation between the two countries in the tourism sector," Avramopoulos told a news conference.

Magrabi also welcomed what he called a new era in sector ties with Greece.

In addition, the memorandum establishes tripartite cooperation with Cyprus to attract visitors from India and China.

The two sides agreed to hold a forum in September for travel firms that will examine the opportunities for Greek investment in northern and southern Egypt.

Furthermore, Magrabi invited Greece to be featured country at a Mediterranean tourism trade fair in Cairo in September next year.

Also present were the president of the Greek National Tourism Organization, Aristidis Kaloyeropoulos, and the Greek ambassador in Egypt, Panayiotis Vlassopoulos.

On May 31, Avramopoulos will visit Alexandria to meet Patriarch Theodoros of Africa.

In an interview to the Al Ahram newspaper, Avramopoulos said that the current revitalization of ties with Egypt was long overdue; and that shipping routes should be established between the two countries.

[18] PM Karamanlis not afraid to carry out necessary reforms, Athens Mayor tells 'Ta Nea' daily

Athens, 31/5/2005 (ANA)

"You can't make an omelet without breaking eggs," she said, while noting that Karamanlis was prepared "to break a few eggs".

According to Bakoyannis, Greece needed a new develop-mental policy to shore up its position internationally, one which would boost productivity and competitiveness and will concern the labor force, social insurance and the unemployed.

Referring to the voluntary early retirement agreement for staff at the Hellenic Telecommunications Organization (OTE) struck the previous week, the Athens Mayor said this was a crucial step that marked the start of structural reforms.

She also noted that the deal was the result of a compromise that had a certain cost and that this cost should burden the parties involved and not society as a whole.

Bakoyannis also called for greater solidarity within the government and described the Houpi affair as a "most unfortunate affair" that was unacceptable but did not have the nature of an economic and political scandal.

[19] National town planning project will be complete in 2006, Environment Minister says

Athens, 31/5/2005 (ANA)

"Finally, the country will have a legislated national town planning framework," he said, adding that special town planning frameworks for renewable energy sources, tourism, industry, coastal and mountainous regions will also be in place by May 2006.

Souflias said that unfortunately, Greece lacks a comprehensive town planning framework, a factor which plays a decisive role in terms of growth and sustainable development.

According to the minister, completing the relevant framework is a top priority for the environment ministry, as it hopes to capitalize on opportunities and to address weaknesses that arise during the development process.

[20] Aegean Minister Pavlidis meets EU Commissioner Kroes

BRUSSELS 31/5/2005 (ANA/M. Spinthourakis)

In statements, Pavlidis said that the island regions should be a substantial issue for the European Union. He added that he will also attend the general assembly of the European Island Chambers on Tuesday. The aim of the general assembly is to complete the discussion on the "Manifesto of the Commercial and Industrial Chambers of the EU", during which the disadvantages of the EU's island regions must be taken into account by the entire European decisions.

[21] Greek fuel distribution companies' results improved in 2004, report

Athens, 31/5/2005 (ANA)

Stat Bank's report said higher purchase prices from refineries trimmed distribution companies' profits, as the domestic fuel market engaged in a fierce price war last year.

Sales totalled 8.0 billion euros, while net profits reached 150 million euros. The report said Greek enterprises expanded their market shares and noted that a low price policy would continue changing market shares this year.

State-owned EKO maintained its leading position in the market, further improving its results, although its financial obligations rose 21.7 percent to 230.6 million euros in 2004.

BP was the most profitable enterprise in the sector, with net profits totalling 70 million euros, while Shell managed to lower its debt and adequately fund its investment program, although profits fell last year.

Avin reported a decline in profits, while Jetoil improved its results and lowered the gap with Avin.

Jetoil invested around 5.0 million euros last year and plans to invest around 15 million euros in storage facilities in Crete.

Aegean Oil maintain the highest growth rates last year, expanding its petrol station network in Attica and acquiring a fuel company in Istanbul, Turkey, as well as opening a new petrol station in Jamaica.

Elin was the sixth most profitable company in the sector; Revoil reported a 16-percent increase in turnover to 226.2 million euros last year.

Revoil launched 40 new stations in 2004.

ETEKA SA also reported improved results after implementing a successful restructuring program.

[22] Athens Commercial Chamber and Ukrainian delegation explore Greek-Ukrainian business prospects

Athens, 31/5/2005 (ANA)

According to Fountoukakos, there are 75 Greek businesses active in the Ukraine, which have invested $14.9 million in the country's economy, representing 0.2% of foreign investment. However, further steps can be taken to strengthen economic ties, he said.

Of total Greek exports, only 0.36% account for exports to the Ukraine. Conversely, the Ukraine accounts for 0.38% of Greek imports.

To achieve closer economic ties, EBEA's president called for the Ukrainian government to lift protective measures and the high duties imposed on a series of Greek products. He also referred to the need for curbing bureaucratic red tape and to inform foreign businesses of investment opportunities in the country.

On their part, members of the delegation emphasized the problems Ukrainian entrepreneurs face when visiting Greece in terms of the issuance of visas.

Fountoukakos said that EBEA is working with the Foreign Ministry to try and solve the problem.

Finally, he announced that the chamber will be sending a delegation to the Ukraine in October.

Visiting Ukrainian press delegation focuses on tourism sector: Tourism Deputy Minister Anastasios Liaskos on Monday met with a group of visiting Ukrainian reporters and journalists, as talks focused squarely on development prospects in the Greek tourism sector.

Ukrainian ambassador to Athens Viktor Kalnic and other Ukrainian diplomats also attended a working lunch hosted by the tourism ministry. Among others, Liaskos broke down the Greek tourism industry into sectors and themes, as well as the crucial issue of attracting foreign investments.

Conversely, several Ukrainian delegates praised the ministry's high-profile role as a major sponsor of the successful Greek entry at the recently hosted Eurovision song competition in Kiev.

[23] Athens Mayor speaks on maritime issues at Piraeus Maritime Club

Athens, 31/5/2005 (ANA)

Bakoyannis said she was optimistic about the sector for various reasons. Greek shipping, she said, has changed its image with the renewal of its fleet.

She said that both ocean-going shipping and ferry services are improving dramatically.

Bakoyannis also emphasized that the current government is much friendlier towards private initiative, creativity and talent in comparison with previous administrations. She did, however, admit that the government could have moved at a faster pace.

From a legislative perspective, Bakoyannis said that numerous laws regarding development, investment and tax reduction had been passed, with new laws aimed at slashing bureaucratic red tape in the pipeline.

As for what still needs to be achieved, Bakoyannis cited training which needs to be upgraded; measures that will allow the current system to closely follow maritime technological developments; Piraeus, which must finally become an international maritime and financial hub offering high-quality services; and the ship-repair sector, which needs to be reformed.

[24] Greek exports to Turkey up 24.2% in Jan-Apr 2005 period

ANKARA 31/5/2005 (ANA)

Moreover, Turkish exports to Greece rose by 4.7 percent in Jan-April 2005 from the same period in 2004, to stand at $396.7 million.

Throughout 2004, Greek exports to Turkey totaled $594.3 million, whereas imports from Turkey reached $1.17 billion.

[25] Greek farm production up in 2004, report

Athens, 31/5/2005 (ANA)

NSS, in a report, also said increased farm production reflected a more efficient farming activity, with soft wheat up 8.7 percent, maize up 5.9 percent, barley up 3.8 percent, and rice up 8.0 percent in 2004, compared with the previous year.

Industrial plants also reported increased production last year, with cotton up by 7.5 percent, while sunflower dropped 45.5 percent. Vegetables fell last year, with the exception of tomato (up 13.6 percent), while orange production fell 20.1 percent, lemon was down 24.1 percent and tangerine dropped 16.7 percent in 2004.

Meat production fell 1.6 percent, milk was down 1.0 percent, soft cheese rose 11.0 percent and eggs rose 0.9 percent.

[26] Greek trade deficit up 10.8 pct in 1st quarter, yr/yr

Athens, 31/5/2005 (ANA)

NSS, in its monthly report on the country's trade balance, said the increased deficit reflected a 9.7 percent rise in the value of import-arrivals in the January-March period to 10.562 billion euros, from 9.625 billion euros last year, and a 7.1 percent increase in the value of export-deliveries to 3.009 billion euros from 2.810 billion euros, over the same period, respectively.

[27] Budget deficit down 11 percent in Jan-April, yr/yr

Athens, 31/5/2005 (ANA)

The budget deficit fell to 5.003 billion euros in the January-April period from 5.6 billion last year, with net revenues totalling 11.7 billion euros, from 11.4 billion euros in 2004, and spending up 4.7 percent to 16.432 billion euros, slightly exceeding a budget target for an increase of 4.6 percent.

[28] MICROSOFT sponsorship to Greek teachers and students

Athens, 31/5/2005 (ANA)

As announced by the Education Ministry, this initiative will not burden financially the Greek state and promotes the transfer and exchange of technical know-how and experiences between teachers of Greece and of other European Union states.

[29] Reception for foreign ambassadors to present 70th TIF

Athens, 31/5/2005 (ANA)

The presentation will be held in cooperation with TIF organizers HELEXPO, and Stylianidis, HELEXPO president Aristotelis Thomopoulos, and HELEXPO managing director Themis Kartsiotis.

The event will be held Wednesday, at 8:00 p.m., at the Grande Bretagne Hotel in central Athens.

[30] Bank workers to strike June 7-8 over social insurance

Athens, 31/5/2005 (ANA)

The OTOE union is seeking introduction of a single supplementary pension system for all sector staff versus a piecemeal arrangement for each bank; and it opposes alignment of sector pensions with the main state fund, which it says would lead to lower pensions and a higher retirement age.

Bank employees staged a series of weekly 24-hour strikes in January and February this year after rejecting proposals by employers and then the finance ministry.

The strike will be held sooner if the government releases the legal amendment that Alogoskoufis mentioned, OTOE said in a statement.

[31] Academics strike, students protest against university evaluation bill

Athens, 31/5/2005 (ANA)

Students announced that they will be staging a demonstration at 7 p.m. on Thursday nationwide, while the students' coordinating committee will convene on Saturday to plan further protests.

[32] 41.7 percent of Greeks will not go away on vacation this summer - Hellenic Consumers' Centre survey

Athens, 31/5/2005 (ANA)

The reasons for not planning to go away on summer holidays this year were mainly financial (71.10 percent), while 15 percent were not planning holidays due to professional reasons, 10 percent due to family reasons, and 3.9 percent due to other reasons.

Also 44.45 percent of those who would go on holiday would be spending their vacation at a self-owned summer home, 21.43 percent would be hosted by relatives or friends, and 34.12 percent would be accommodated at hotels or rented rooms.

Further, with respect to length of the vacation, 27.38 percent would be away for 7 days, 32.54 percent for 10 days, 30.56 percent for 20 days, and just 2.38 percent for an entire month.

[33] Stocks rise in light trade, brush off French "No" vote

Athens, 31/5/2005 (ANA)

The Athens general share index closed at 2,977.97 points, marking a rise of 0.55%. Turnover was 83.3 million euros.

The FTSE/ASE-20 index for high capitalization shares ended 0.54% up; the FTSE/ASE-40 for medium cap stocks closed 1.72% higher; and the FTSE/ASE-80 for small cap shares finished 0.61% up.

Of stocks traded, advances led declines at 145 to 110 with 76 remaining unchanged.

[34] Crete's Seaworld to be Mediterranean's largest aquarium, development minister says

Athens, 31/5/2005 (ANA)

The project has a total budget of three million euros, of which 75 per cent is funded by the European Union. Construction began under the previous government and continued after the injection of an additional 1.5 million euros by the present government in December.

The aquarium occupies a site covering 6,000 hectares and will have over 4,000 marine species on display, while it can receive up to 300 visitors at a time with the average duration of each visit estimated at roughly 1.5 hours. It is expected to receive up to 250,000 visitors each year and is the first large aquarium to be built in Greece.

Sioufas noted that research in marine science and technology was at the cutting edge in Greece, with two marine research centers and various university teams active in the field. He also stressed the important role played by the EU in guiding the direction of marine research and providing funding.

[35] Lefkas Arts and Letters Festival to celebrate 50th anniversary under UN aegis

Athens, 31/5/2005 (ANA)

The Festival, along with the island's 43rd International Folklore Festival, will be held under the aegis of the United Nations, as part of events celebrating the 60th anniversary of the UN's foundation.

[36] President Papoulias receives Cypriot reservist commandos

Athens, 31/5/2005 (ANA)

In a brief greeting, Papoulias told the commandos: "I am happy to see you. You are children of struggles, as we all are. And I also saw in your statute that you are speaking about the liberation of Cyprus. I too am one of those who believe that there cannot be a just solution to the Cyprus issue if the (Turkish) occupation troops do not withdraw. And I am certain that with the new efforts we will achieve the best."

[37] Transport ministry to take steps to stop abuse of driving test system

Athens, 31/5/2005 (ANA)

Transport Minister Mihalis Liapis announced the measures during a meeting with the Panhellenic Federation of Car and Motorcycle Candidate Driver Instructors.

These included abolishing a requirement for additional lessons for candidates who failed their test and an option for immediate re-testing of failed candidates to avoid waiting times that gave an opportunity for bribery. In addition, candidates that failed to appear for a scheduled test will be forced to wait longer in order to prevent candidates from selecting their examiner.

[38] UN: Resumption of Cyprus talks depends whether criteria are met

LARNACA 31/5/2005 (CNA/ANA)

Speaking Monday to reporters after arriving on the island where he will remain until June 2 and then will travel to Athens and Ankara for consultations, before returning to New York on 7 June 2005 to report to the Secretary General, Sir Kieran underlined that it is not a question of setting a date for the resumption of the talks but seeing whether the criteria and the requirements are met.

He also said that he will underline the responsibilities that lie on the parties for the pursuit of a comprehensive settlement.

Sir Kieran stressed that only through constructive efforts by the parties themselves there can be hope that progress can be achieved, noting he is under no illusions about the difficulties in making progress.

In his statement, Sir Kieran said he is on the island ''in furtherance of the Secretary General's mission of good offices. The objective in coming is to take the pulse on the island and in the region after a period of reflection by all sides following the results of last year's referenda''.

Sir Kieran said the ''UN respects the outcome of the referendum here. Primarily therefore this means that I am here to listen to both sides. We know that Greek Cypriots have concerns about the Anan Plan and about a number of developments. We know that Turkish Cypriots have concerns about a number of developments too''.

Referring to his meetings with the Cypriot President's envoy Tasos Tzionis at the UN headquarters earlier this month, Sir Kieran said he had ''an initial but nevertheless detailed exchange with the Greek Cypriot delegation two weeks ago. We listened carefully to them and I think that they also found useful what we had to say from our part''.

''I am here to continue in the same spirit with all parties. I am also here to underline the responsibilities that lie on the parties for the pursuit of a comprehensive settlement. I spoke about that with the Greek Cypriot delegation in New York and I will be stressing that with all my interlocutors'', he said.

The UN Under Secretary General noted ''only through constructive efforts by the parties themselves is the hope that progress can be achieved and I am under no illusions about the difficulties in making progress''.

Sir Kieran said he will not have ''anything to report to you at the end of my visit here because I will be midway through a series of consultations which will also take me to Athens and to Ankara. And of course I have to report back to the Secretary General''.

Asked when we should realistically expect the start of the negotiations for Cyprus, Sir Kieran replied, ''well that depends. The whole plan is to take the pulse, see weather there is a common ground. So it is not a question of setting a date. Is seeing whether the criteria, the requirements are met''.

Sir Kieran is set to meet Cyprus President Tassos Papadopoulos Tuesday morning and Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat on Wednesday. He will also meet political leaders on both sides.

[39] Cyprus says US tolerant of illegal visit

NICOSIA 31/5/2005 (CNA/ANA)

The spokesman said that the US congressmen, who landed at an illegal airport in the Turkish occupied areas Monday, would be allowed to cross over into the government-controlled areas of the Republic, if they asked for it, adding at the same time that it would not be diplomatically correct of them to attempt to.

''In case they do, all which applies in similar visits will be implemented. They will be allowed entry,'' he added.

Referring to the ten US congressmen expected to arrive Tuesday at Larnaca Airport, he said they would hold a series of meetings with government officials and would be received by President Tassos Papadopoulos.

Asked about the purpose of the visit, Chrysostomides said such visits were a normal phenomenon and aimed at ''being briefed, promoting the US policy, discussing, investigating the possibility of solving regional problems, and generally briefing Congress members on external policy matters.''

Replying to questions, he said there would be no problem for the ten US congressmen to cross over into the Turkish occupied areas, if they so wished.

[40] Cyprus supports EU decision on Turkey's talks

NICOSIA 31/5/2005 (CNA/ANA)

Commenting on Sunday's rejection of the European Constitution by the people of France and any possible repercussions on the Cyprus

problem, Chrysostomides said it was uncertain whether the French dismissal would affect Turkey's EU course, adding that the EU's decision was to commence membership talks with Ankara on October 3.

''No one can be sure how things will evolve,'' he said, noting that one must consider on what might happen if there are consequences on Turkey's EU course.

He said if Turkey's course was affected, then one should see what would have happened if the Greek Cypriot community had accepted a UN-proposed plan for a Cyprus settlement, noting that this was ''food for thought.''

Replying to questions, Chrysostomides reiterated that the EU member states had decided to commence accession negotiations with Turkey on October 3 and that this decision had not been altered.

Responding to other questions, the spokesman said it was uncertain whether Turkey would stiffen its stance if its accession course were adversely affected.

''We must consider what development may arise in the case that there is an obstacle in commencing negotiations. All possibilities are being examined and the whole course depends on the developments. Our position is that of the December Council,'' he said.

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