Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English, 05-10-18

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

CONTENTS

[01] Gov't submits nat'l reform program to European Commission

[02] Gov't dismisses latest PASOK criticism, points to past policies

[03] First case of bird flu reported in Greece on Monday

[04] Agriculture minister on reported case of bird flu

[05] European Commission informed of bird flu case in Greece

[06] Gov't to demand compensation from EU for poultry breeders

[07] Greek President: Greek fate is indissolubly linked with that of Cyprus

[08] Cyprus and Greece pledge determination for right solution

[09] Greek President visits National Guard & ELDIK during Cyprus visit

[10] Papoulias receives Nicosia's Gold Key

[11] Premier confers with foreign, merchant marine ministers

[12] PASOK leader Papandreou claims that gov't shows weakness in its foreign policy

[13] PASOK's Political Council slams government's foreign policy

[14] Gov't on troop size in Afghanistan; media issues

[15] Romanian interior minister in Athens

[16] Bourse 'bubble' trial of public security company's ex-board members begins

[17] Irregularities ascertained in the 'Politia' Program during 2001-2003

[18] Transport, Defense ministers set up working group for exploitation of military airports by civil aviation

[19] National Council of Foreign Policy to meet Tuesday

[20] SYN to host Party of the European Left conference in Athens from October 29-30

[21] ELIAMEP publication on Greece-FYROM relations unveiled

[22] Kosovo's status must change, US ambassador to Albania says

[23] Greece most popular destination for 'demanding American tourists'

[24] Competition in tourism calls for differentiated product, development minister says

[25] Development ministers say gov't contains inflation despite record fuel prices

[26] Gov't guarantees funding of pension system, minister says

[27] Private healthcare sector to continue growing strongly in Greece, report

[28] Kosmima fair to be held in Thessaloniki, Oct 21-24

[29] Increase of Russian tourists to Greece

[30] Aegean Airlines wins European distinction

[31] BA to begin direct London-Rhodes flights in May 2006

[32] Greek stocks post slight rise on Monday

[33] 6R quake jolts Aegean, no damage immediately reported 3

[34] Dialogue between the Orthodox Church and the European People's Party in Istanbul from October 20-21

[35] Sophocles' 'Antigone' performed for first time in Albanian

[36] Results of the Greek first division soccer championship

[01] Gov't submits nat'l reform program to European Commission

ATHENS, 18/10/2005 (ANA)

The program's key priorities are to achieve fiscal balance and healthy public finances over the long-term; increase productivity by addressing markets' structural problems; invest in human resources and promote the information society; improve the business environment; and boost employment.

As part of its reform program, the government is intensifying fiscal audits in order to improve management of public resources and promoting a new framework for state utilities aimed at improving their operation.

Additionally, the government is also seeking to reform the property tax system and is creating a new financial crimes squad.

The four-year program also includes capitalizing on public property and promoting public-private partnerships.

Pilot projects of public-private partnerships will be implemented in the near future in the following sectors: health care, real estate and IT.

The government is also looking to attract foreign companies that will provide services abroad by reforming law 89/1967 and offering businesses stronger incentives.

Also in terms of improving the business environment, the program calls for bankruptcy legislation reform and supporting small-and medium-sized enterprises through the creation of an SME National Council and simplifying the permitting process.

The program also includes measures targeting industry, tourism, the job market, vocational training and other areas.

[02] Gov't dismisses latest PASOK criticism, points to past policies

ATHENS, 18/10/2005 (ANA)

Government spokesman Theodoros Roussopoulos not only dismissed the comments but launched a stinging attack on what he called "standing policy" by successive PASOK governments vis-a-vis the use and exploitation of statistical data.

"It's a well-known PASOK practice to 'cook up' the numbers at will in order to create a virtual reality on which to base its propaganda," Roussopoulos said, adding:

"That is what PASOK did with unemployment figures; it did the same thing with the budgets, showing budget deficit as surplus budgets."

The spokesman also charged that PASOK's criticism of mass public sector hirings is disingenuous, saying that contract employees merely had their contracts renewed or were given permanent contracts, "alleviating the lengthy captivity of employees hired by PASOK."

[03] First case of bird flu reported in Greece on Monday

ATHENS, 18/10/2005 (ANA)

According to Basiakos, the farmer, Dimitris Komninaris, reported suspicious symptoms he had detected in the turkeys, some of which had died, on October 13.

Chios' Veterinerary Service took samples from the dead birds and sent them to the Athens Centre of Veterinary Institutes, which found one of nine samples to be H5 positive.

The turkeys were free-range, a fact that is causing Chios' Veterinary Service concern.

Komninaris had lost 30 turkeys last year as well, due to illness, but the causes were not investigated at the time.

A veterinary team, headed by the Veterinary Agency's Supervisor Yiannis Karydas, is on the island taking new samples from live birds. The samples will be sent for analysis to the Thessaloniki Centre of Veterinary Institutes, while birds' health will be monitored closely.

[04] Agriculture minister on reported case of bird flu

ATHENS, 18/10/2005 (ANA)

The sample, which tested positive for the bird flu virus, was taken from a live turkey.

However, the strain of the virus and whether it is the same as the deadly H5N1 strain that resulted in deaths in Southeast Asia will be determined within the next three to four days.

According to Basiakos, as soon as the case was discovered, all precautionary measures were taken, including quarantine, disinfection, etc.

In a related development, President of the Disease Control Centre Angelos Hatzakis said that the people who had come into contact with the infected turkeys will be monitored closely for at least the next seven days.

He said they will all undergo clinical examinations, and said that while they are not being quarantined, they have been asked to stay home until the virus strain has been identified.

[05] European Commission informed of bird flu case in Greece

BRUSSELS, 18/10/2005 (ANA/M. Spinthourakis)

One of the samples taken from a small, private poultry farm tested positive for H5 antibodies.

"The samples are in the process of being sent for confirmation and virus isolation tests to the national reference laboratory in Thessaloniki, and the Commission requested that they also be sent immediately to the Community Reference Laboratory in Weybridge," the Commission said in a statement.

The Commission is preparing a safeguard decision to ban the movement of live poultry and poultry products from the infected area, the Chios region. The EU decision will be adopted as soon as the national reference laboratory has confirmed the serological results which are expected on Tuesday.

The Greek Ministry of Agricultural Development and Foods has agreed to restrict the dispatch of live poultry and poultry products as of Monday evening as a precautionary measure.

[06] Gov't to demand compensation from EU for poultry breeders

ATHENS, 18/10/2005 (ANA)

After the meeting, Basiakos said that all measures necessary for the protection of the public's health have been taken in accordance with national and EU law.

Furthermore, regional emergency centers are being set up throughout the country and 100 seasonal veterinarians are being hired so that Greece is prepared to address any problems linked to bird flu.

EU General Affairs ministers will be convening to discuss the issue in Brussels on Tuesday.

3 dead birds found in Evros, sent for bird flu testing: Three dead birds were found Sunday at Evros, on Greece's border region with Turkey, and the carcasses have been turned over to the prefecture's Veterinary Service to be forwarded to the Veterinary Laboratory in Thessaloniki for testing.

The dead birds, two from the Orestiada region and one from the Soufli region, were found on Sunday by local residents.

Meanwhile, authorities were intensifying sample testing of migratory birds following the incidents of avian influenza (bird flu) in neighboring Turkey and Romania.

Over the weekend, the Veterinary Directorate of Evros prefecture, in cooperation with the Alexandroupolis Hunting Association, collected a further 20 samples of migratory birds, which were sent to the Thessaloniki Veterinary Laboratory for testing, while the test results on the first 40 samples of migratory birds sent to the Lab five days ago will be announced within the week.

[07] Greek President: Greek fate is indissolubly linked with that of Cyprus

NICOSIA, 18/10/2005 (ANA/N.Megadoukas/CNA)

Addressing an extraordinary session of the House of Representatives, the Greek President also said that Turkey is now facing historic dilemmas and it will have to review fundamental aspects of its policy on Cyprus or risk its European prospects.

Welcoming Papoulias, House President Demetris Christofias said a correct solution to the Cyprus problem should be an agreed solution that will result from substantial negotiation and the achievement of the necessary changes in the Annan Plan, which will render it more balanced, functional and therefore viable, by effectively addressing the concerns of both communities to their mutual benefit and not by serving foreign interests.

In his speech, President Papoulias said that for the first time, the Republic of Cyprus with its vote, will participate in the procedure to monitor Turkey's European course, noting that in a European reality, occupation troops do not have any place and sooner or later, Turkey will have to reconcile with this reality, if it wants to maintain its European path.

Referring to Cyprus' accession to the EU, President Papoulias said that "it determines the international framework in which the Cyprus problem falls into", stressing that the "end of the Turkish occupation and restoration of the territorial integrity of the Cyprus state, through an overall mutually acceptable, fair and viable solution remains a national priority".

"A solution to the Cyprus problem remains the constituent element of peace and stability in the wider region and could guarantee a high level of security and welfare for all citizens on the island, Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots", he stressed.

The Greek president assured that "all of Greece, its people and its political leadership is and will remain at your side, to assist and support the Greek Cypriots and all the people of Cyprus. This position is determined by history. Our fate is indissolubly linked with that of Cyprus".

Referring to the history of the Cyprus problem and efforts to resume the peace process as well as the Cypriot government's proposal for the co-management of the Turkish occupied port city of Famagusta, Papoulias said that Greece believes that "the international community must avoid actions that contribute to consolidating the division of the island and especially taking measures which lead directly or indirectly to the recognition of the illegal regime in occupied Cyprus such as the use of ports and airports in the occupied areas without the consent of the Republic of Cyprus".

On Turkey's EU course, Papoulias expressed the hope that it will lead Ankara to a "gradual period of peace, stability and friendship with its relations with Cyprus and Greece".

"We will continue to work so that Turkey will implement the entirety of the obligations it has undertaken against the EU and its own citizens. Its full compliance with the principles and criteria of the EU is essential. This means that the EU progress primarily depends on Turkey itself, from the measures it will take domestically and from its dedication in fulfilling its international obligations, especially in relation to the Republic of Cyprus", he added.

Papoulias stressed that "we expect Turkey to honor all the obligations undertaken by signing the extension protocol of the Ankara Agreement toward the ten new EU member states, including Cyprus of course. Turkey should also make a real contribution to reopening the negotiations under the auspices of the United Nations".

"Turkey is obliged to substantially contribute in efforts to resume negotiations under the UN auspices and to willingly withdraw its occupation troops, end the continued settlement of the occupied areas and to respond to the reasonable concerns of Greek Cypriots and its obligation to respect international legality", the Greek president said.

He underlined that "Turkey is now facing historic dilemmas, either to review its fundamental policy on Cyprus or to risk its European prospect. After 31 years of diplomatic absurdity, it is called by the EU to accept reality by a commitment to extend its customs union and to proceed to recognition as soon as possible".

Concluding, Papoulias noted that "the time for the reunification of the island may not yet have come because of the intransigence of Ankara but for the first time the Republic of Cyprus will participate, with its vote, in the process of controlling the European course of Turkey. There is no place for occupation forces in the European reality. Sooner or later Turkey will have to reconcile itself with this reality if, as we all hope, it remains committed to its European course".

Addressing the Greek President, House President Christofias said "a just under the circumstances and correct solution should be an agreed solution that will result from substantial negotiation and the achievement of the necessary changes in the Annan Plan, which will render it more balanced, functional and therefore viable and by effectively addressing the concerns of both communities to their mutual benefit and not by serving foreign interests".

Only in this way, he added, "will the conditions for peaceful coexistence and meaningful cooperation between Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots be safeguarded in a common homeland with common prospects".

It is for this reason said Christofias, "that Cyprus and Greece wish that Turkey accedes to the Union, provided that Turkey fulfills the criteria, just as any other candidate country respects the principles and values that govern the European Union and complies with her obligations vis-a-vis the European Union and all member states, without exception".

Christofias said the strong, fraternal bonds between Greece and Cyprus, which Papoulias' presence here reaffirms and reinforces even further, "are also underscored in other infinite ways, including a very regular exchange of visits at all levels".

Referring to relations between the two countries, Christofias said "the expression of our gratitude to Greece, its people and its entire political leadership, for their steadfast interest and support never constitutes an exaggeration."

He reminded that the "most recent and most important joint effort, which bore fruit, was Cyprus' accession to the European Union, the second of our two strategic goals. The primary, but also most difficult goal is the solution of the Cyprus problem, which troubles us to date. Not from lack of will on our part of course."

"Our will is given, as is our devotion to the aim of reuniting the island and its people, in a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation, based on the relevant United Nations resolutions and founded on the principles of the European Union, of which both our countries are now full members, and which Turkey, an important factor and key player on the chessboard of the Cyprus problem, aspires to join."

Christofias said "unfortunately, the response by the Turkish leadership has not only not been positive, but instead exceeds even the limits of provocation, both towards Cyprus and Greece, as well as towards all her other future partners. On our part, we continue to maintain contact with the Turkish Cypriots at all possible levels, keeping the flame of reunification alight."

[08] Cyprus and Greece pledge determination for right solution

NICOSIA, 18/10/2005 (ANA/N.Megadoukas/CNA)

He was speaking during an official dinner given in his honor by President of the Republic of Cyprus Tassos Papadopoulos who underlined that a good solution to the Cyprus problem, even if it is difficult, has to be a one-way street, stressing that "this is our only choice".

In his address, Papoulias said he was proud to be visiting a Cyprus that is a modern and developed state, a member of the great European family, noting he would be especially happy to be in a free and united Cyprus where its entire people, Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots, lived and flourished in an environment of peace and security. Unfortunately, he added, this has not been possible to date.

Papoulias said he is "convinced that all Greek Cypriots remain committed to a fair and viable solution of the Cyprus issue in the framework of a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation - a solution based on the United Nations resolutions, the proposals of the Secretary-General and on the principles on which the EU is founded. This solution should be reached with the agreement of both sides and should fully respect the rights and fundamental freedoms of all the citizens of the Republic of Cyprus".

Referring to Turkey's EU orientation, Papoulias said the course of Turkey to the European Union will be a long process of compliance to specific conditions, rules and requirements of the road map that was determined by the 25 member states of the Union after long consultations.

"Turkey will be negotiating with the 25 at intergovernmental level and throughout this process the judges will be all the members of the European Union. The process of Turkey's course to Europe shapes a new framework for the future of Greek-Turkish relations. Our objective remains the respect for the rules of International Law and the principle of good neighborly relations", he underlined.

Assuring that "Greece will be always at your side for support and assistance in the struggle for the realization of the fair expectations of the people of Cyprus", Papoulias said his country supports "the resumption of negotiations within the framework of the UN in order to achieve a viable and functional solution to the Cyprus issue. We are prepared to work to prepare the necessary common ground for a real dialogue to begin."

Papoulias said "today, Europe is at a crossroads. We should understand the concerns of European citizens and hopefully the ''period of reflection'' that was decided at the Summit last June will be a useful transitional stage for a new approach to the course of European integration, a course that takes into account the concerns and the problems of the citizens of Europe as they were expressed in the recent referenda in the two member states of the Union."

Regarding the region of South-Eastern Europe, Papoulias said Greece follows the developments in the Balkans closely. The stability, the security and the European perspective of the states of the region is a high strategic priority for our country. On the specific issue of Kosovo "we are at a very crucial point in relation to the final status of the province. We also believe that the European perspective of Bulgaria, Romania and Croatia will contribute to the growth and stability of our region."

In relation to the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Papoulias said: "We hope that the issue of the name will be resolved in the framework determined by the Interim Agreement, so that there are no obstacles in its European course."

In relation to the Middle East issue, he expressed hope "that peace can be brought to the region with the establishment of a viable and democratic Palestinian state and the safeguarding of the safety of the state of Israel through the gradual implementation of the Road Map and the necessary negotiations."

Welcoming Papoulias, Cypriot President Papadopoulos said that it "is a fact that in the struggle the Greek Cypriot people are waging for natural and national survival, Greece was and continues to be our principal, permanent and irreplaceable mainstay."

President Papadopoulos remarked that "it is also a fact that it was mainly and firstly to Greece that we owe the historic achievement of the Republic of Cyprus' full accession to the European Union."

Reminding that Papoulias is visiting Cyprus shortly after the decision of the EU to start accession negotiations with Turkey, President Papadopoulos said Greece and Cyprus, being consistent with their rational position that both the specific and the wider interests of Hellenism are better served by promoting the European prospect of Turkey, than by prohibiting its accession to the European Union, "supported this decision".

However, "with one important and essential precondition", he stressed, that "the European prospect of Turkey is directly and decisively linked to Turkey's fulfilling the criteria, obligations and terms, from which she should not be allowed to escape, as she cannot bypass the commitment to respect and implement the principles and values of the EU."

The recognition of the Republic of Cyprus is an important component of Turkey's accession course, the Cypriot President remarked.

He said that the Cyprus problem now assumes a European dimension and Turkey's whole attitude towards Cyprus does not concern Cyprus alone, but also Europe. "EU involvement in the Cyprus problem, does not negate, and cannot negate or substitute the United Nations framework, in which a final solution of the Cyprus problem is sought. The final solution of the Cyprus problem remains our basic, primary and main goal. Our insistence on a workable and viable solution does not mean going back on our firm and immovable position in favor of a bizonal, bicommunal federation. At the same time the rejection of the specific unjust Plan at the April 2004 referendum does not mean rejection of a solution."

"If we have a bad solution now it will be impossible to correct it later. A bad solution today will not be just a mistake tomorrow. It will constitute a national crime with Cyprus and its people as its victim," the Cypriot president underlined, noting that "ephemeral solutions are easy. For third parties they are also welcome since they rid them of a nuisance. For us however the Cyprus problem is not a nuisance. It is an issue, which is related to our natural and national survival. For this reason a good solution to this problem even if it is difficult has to be a one-way street. It is our only choice. It is our responsibility and our duty."

Stressing that he does not underestimate the difficulties, President Papadopoulos emphasized that "we are fully aware that with time passing there are visible dangers for the consolidation of faits accomplis. However, these dangers are not assuaged through a solution which will itself legalize and render permanent those faits accomplis. It is only through a correct solution that the tragic consequences of the invasion and occupation will be faced," he concluded.

[09] Greek President visits National Guard & ELDIK during Cyprus visit

NICOSIA, 18/10/2005 (ANA/N.Megadoukas/CNA)

Accompanied by Cyprus Defense Minister Kyriakos Mavronicolas and Commander of the National Guard Athanasios Nikolodemos, the Greek president was received by ELDIK commander, Colonel Chistos Markantonis.

Welcoming Papoulias, Colonel Markantonis said that from the moment it arrived on the island, ELDIK was closely associated with the survival of Greek Hellenism.

He assured that whenever circumstances require, the force will fulfill its duties.

Replying, Papoulias said that a large part of Cyprus is under occupation. "Times have changed, but your role remains the same", said Papoulias.

Turning towards the ELDIK soldiers, Papoulias said that "your presence here sends a message that for us, the defense and security of Cyprus remain a non-negotiable issue".

Earlier, Papoulias visited the National Guard General Staff Command where he was informed on the National Guard's operation condition and about the occupation forces, which Turkey maintains, on the island.

In a speech, National Guard commander Nikolodemos said "your presence here has a great significance for us because it confirms once again the endless interest and support of motherland Greece towards Cypriot Hellenism and its armed forces, the National Guard, and contributes in elevating the morals and principles of our staff".

He pointed out that despite the improvement of the security climate on the island since Cyprus' accession to the EU, the "military environment on the island has not altered since Turkish occupation forces maintain the same levels, continually upgrade qualitatively and numerically and are a constant threat which obliges us to be vigilant and to maintain a credible deterrent force".

President Papoulias, accompanied by Deputy Foreign Minister Yiannis Valinakis, is on a four-day official visit to Cyprus

[10] Papoulias receives Nicosia's Gold Key

NICOSIA, 18/10/2005 (CNA/ANA)

He added that the solution of the Cyprus problem should have the serious prospects of a bizonal bicommunal federation, with respect of UN Security Council resolutions, and must comply with European principles and values.

Speaking at a ceremony at the Nicosia Town Hall, during which Mayor Michael Zampelas presented him with the Gold Key to the town, Papoulias said ''today's unacceptable situation of occupation is a blatant anachronism for contemporary man,'' adding that ''the wall dividing Nicosia into two and along with it its residents, Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots, is a disgrace for the civilized world.''

Zampelas said ''the division of Nicosia deprives its citizens of their fundamental rights and freedoms and significantly downgrades the quality of life of the inhabitants living in areas near the Green Line.''

He added that ''the continuing division of Nicosia is the saddest event in the modern history of the town,'' noting that ''for the citizens of Nicosia, the division is the biggest challenge, which arms them with strength to achieve reunification the soonest possible.''

Zampelas also said that ''Cyprus' accession to the EU strengthens efforts towards the aim of Cyprus, which is the liberation of the occupied territories and the reunification of the island.''

After the ceremony, Zampelas escorted Papoulias on a visit to the ceasefire line, not far from the Town Hall.

Speaking after the visit, Papoulias said ''Cyprus and Greece have many more struggles yet'' and noted that he was ''emotional because not all the walls in Europe have collapsed and this abuse remains here.''

''I have faith in the struggling Cypriot people,'' he added. Asked if all European leaders should visit the ceasefire line, Papoulias said ''they should come and see the responsibility they have, that this unacceptable situation is maintained.''

Papoulias also signed the book at an observation post at the ceasefire line and wrote, ''When walls fall, the dividing line is an abuse for every citizen of Europe. The common struggles of Cyprus and Greece will bring the longed-for result of a free and reunified Cyprus.''

President Papoulias, on a four-day official visit to Cyprus, started his day with a visit at the Makedonitissa Tomb in Nicosia, where army officers and soldiers killed during the 1974 Turkish invasion are buried.

During a brief but somber ceremony, he laid a wreath in their memory.

[11] Premier confers with foreign, merchant marine ministers

ATHENS, 18/10/2005 (ANA)

After his meeting with the premier, Molyviatis told waiting reporters that he had briefed Karamanlis on all foreign policy issues, adding that it had been a usual meeting in the context of his regular contacts with the prime minister.

Kefaloyannis told reporters after his meeting with the prime minister that he had briefed him on matters falling under his ministry's competency, including the recent unanimous adoption by parliament of a new law on recreational scuba diving, which lifted existing restrictions.

In past years, recreational diving was strictly restricted in Greece in order to deter antiquities smugglers, with diving only permitted in specific, closely-watched locations.

The new law further contains provisions to boost Greek cruise shipping and a six-year chartering of ships to serve routes to the country's remote islands.

Kefaloyannis also said a bill would be tabled soon providing for the upgrade of the Merchant Marine Schools to university-level institutions, as well as one for enactment of the3 billion euros Protocol signed between Greece and the European Investment Bank (EIB), adding that the first project to be funded under the Protocol would be announced on October 21.

The minister was referring to a protocol agreement with the EIB he signed in July for financing a project to upgrade the country's major ports, the overall cost of which has been estimated at 6.0 billion euros, with the loan agreement with the EIB covering half the outlay at favorable terms.

The 25-year loan has a grant period of seven years, a low interest rate and does not need the guarantee of the Greek state. EIB's money will cover a wide gamut of projects. The money from the loan will be used exclusively to fund investment programs included in a National Port Policy, drafted by ministry for the period 2005-2015.

The national program was based on individual programs submitted by the country's 12 major ports. The ministry also plans to hold a tender to find a consultant for the project.

[12] PASOK leader Papandreou claims that gov't shows weakness in its foreign policy

ATHENS, 18/10/2005 (ANA)

Papandreou said that on issues of foreign policy, the government of the New Democracy (ND) party "lacks volition, initiative, strategy, vision and capability."

He stressed that in front of developments, the government is "behaving with fear and awkwardness, resulting in it losing opportunities for Greece and creating an impasse for the country."

[13] PASOK's Political Council slams government's foreign policy

ATHENS, 18/10/2005 (ANA)

All the issues of foreign policy were discussed with Christos Papoutsis as rapporteur.

Following the meeting, a text was released with the conclusions of the discussions held at PASOK's Political Council. The government was strongly criticized, while PASOK's positions and general principles on foreign policy were presented.

Specifically, regarding foreign policy, PASOK calls on the government "to clarify what it wants and what it seeks in all the sectors and particularly regarding the Cyprus issue, Greek-Turkish relations and the FYROM (Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia) issue."

In particular on the matter of the name issue of the neighboring country of FYROM, PASOK accuses the government that "through its policy, it allowed FYROM's intransigence to gain ground and for Greece's right to defend its national interests to be disputed."

Roussopoulos responds to PASOK leader: Minister of State and Government Spokesman Theodoros Roussopoulos on Monday strongly rebuffed statements made earlier by main opposition Panhellenic Socialist Movement (PASOK) leader George Papandreou on the government's foreign policy.

"On the ... 'initiative' of Mr. Papandreou, his nihilistic opposition extends itself even to the sensitive matters of foreign policy. On PASOK's political scale petty party interests outweigh the country's interests," Roussopoulos said.

Papandreou, in statements following a meeting of his party's Political Council on Monday, attributed "fear and awkward-ness" in the government's foreign policy.

[14] Gov't on troop size in Afghanistan; media issues

ATHENS, 18/10/2005 (ANA)

Meanwhile, in answer to an unrelated question, government spokesman Theodoros Roussopoulos dismissed any notion that the government was considering asking television stations to exclude their news programs from the ratings.

Referring to the government's overall position for the broadcast media sector, Roussopoulos cited a completion of negotiations with the EU Commission over the high-profile "primary shareholder" law; draft legislation on the concentration of media outlets and licensing.

[15] Romanian interior minister in Athens

ATHENS, 18/10/2005 (ANA)

According to reports, the issues of public administration organization, civil servants' training, regional development and immigration dominated talks.

A memorandum of cooperation was also signed by the two sides.

[16] Bourse 'bubble' trial of public security company's ex-board members begins

ATHENS, 18/10/2005 (ANA)

According to a multi-count indictment, DEKA's former management invested in shares of heavily traded state-owned utilities just prior to the April 2000 elections in order to keep the Athens Stock Market's (ASE) general index high -- a policy that reportedly resulted in damages for the state exceeding 700 million euros.

Proceedings at the three-judge appellate-level felony court will continue on Tuesday.

Gov't reaction: In later comments, government spokesman Theodoros Roussooulos said the DEKA case "involved quite a few Greeks in 1999 and 2000, because PASOK (then in government) tried, and to a large extent succeeded, in using the ASE for political gains".

In answer to a press question, Roussopoulos again charged that retail investors were "defrauded via a political initiative and strategy by the government at the time. We await answers from this trial".

[17] Irregularities ascertained in the 'Politia' Program during 2001-2003

ATHENS, 18/10/2005 (ANA)

Specifically, according to a relevant announcement, it was ascertained from the inspection conducted by the SEEDD that there were irregularities in the procedure of the assignment of projects.

The "Politia" Program is described as the National Action Plan for Public Administration and is prepared every three years by the interior ministry, with the objective the continuing improvement of Public Administration with the introduction of new methods of operation and the capitalizing on new technologies.

The financing of the Program comes from the regular resources of the State Budget and from the Regional Development Funds.

Operating at the interior ministry is a Central Committee for the Observance of the Program, which has the general supervision and coordination of the entrepreneurial programs of the other agencies (ministries and regions), while similar committees operate in each ministry and region.

In response to the report by the SEEDD, main opposition Panhellenic Socialist Movement (PASOK) deputy and former interior minister Costas Skandalidis spoke on Monday of a "planned attack" by the ruling New Democracy (ND) party "which seeks to rid itself of the difficult position and impasse of the multiple revelations of the past few days."

[18] Transport, Defense ministers set up working group for exploitation of military airports by civil aviation

ATHENS, 18/10/2005 (ANA)

The aim, according to the ministers, was to reduce costs in the sector of air transports.

The two ministers noted the close and good cooperation between their ministries, which they said was reflected in the use of the Pachi military airport in Megara for the needs of civil aviation, and the use of the Larissa military airport for cargo transports, at the initial stage.

The ministers declined further elaboration after the one-hour meeting.

[19] National Council of Foreign Policy to meet Tuesday

ATHENS, 18/10/2005 (ANA)

According to a foreign ministry announcement on Monday, the council will focus, during its 5th meeting, on Turkey's EU accession course, the latest developments and prospects of the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia's (FYROM) issue and Kosovo, in light of the recent report by UN secretary general's Special Envoy Ambassador Kai Eide.

[20] SYN to host Party of the European Left conference in Athens from October 29-30

ATHENS, 18/10/2005 (ANA)

As stated in a press conference on Monday by Synaspismos leader Alekos Alavanos, "the effort to unify the activity of the European Left is an extremely original political attempt."

Alavanos added that the principles, policies and actions of the Party of the European Left "are orientated towards an economic policy which is capable of stopping social decline."

[21] ELIAMEP publication on Greece-FYROM relations unveiled

ATHENS, 18/10/2005 (ANA)

The publication, edited by retired diplomat and noted Balkan affairs expert Evangelos Kofos, focuses on relations between Greece and the neighboring Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM), following their normalization with the 1995 "interim accord".

"This Accord set the foundations for all-round relations between the two countries. At the same time, however, it postponed resolution of the thorny issue of the country's (FYROM) final name and on related cultural issues," an ELIAMEP press release read.

Several authors, including historians, foreign policy experts, analysts, economists and social anthropologists, have contributed to the publication, along with Amb. Kofos.

The think tank's publication was co-published with the Museum of the Macedonian Struggle Foundation.

[22] Kosovo's status must change, US ambassador to Albania says

ATHENS, 18/10/2005 (ANA)

Ries said that Albania had adopted a constructive stance during the Kosovo crisis since the country resisted the use of violence.

Regarding minorities' rights in Albania, Ries cited recent statements by Foreign Minister Besnik Mustafaj regarding progress the Albanian government wishes to make in this area.

She also noted that joining the European Union and NATO are a core priority for Albania in terms of its foreign policy and said that she believed there was social consensus regarding economic and social reforms.

Ries pointed out that the US in cooperation with the EU is helping Albania to achieve stability.

As for the economy, she said that some progress has been made, but that the issues of poverty and unemployment need to be addressed, particularly in rural areas.

Among those attending the event were US Ambassador to Greece and Ries' husband, Charles Ries, Thessaloniki Prefect Panayiotis Psomiadis and Cypriot Consul in Thessaloniki Antonis Theocharous.

[23] Greece most popular destination for 'demanding American tourists'

NEW YORK, 18/10/2005 (ANA/P. Panagiotou)

The event, held at a central Manhattan hotel, was attended by American publishers, corporate CEOs, representatives of travel periodicals, officials of the largest tour operators in the US, and officials of the international business, investment and tourism communities.

Apart from Avramopoulos, who is accompanied on his US visit by president of the National Tourism Organization of Greece (NTOG) Aristides Kalogeropoulos-Stratis, other speakers included Edwin (Ed) Fuller, president and managing director of J.W. Marriott International Lodging, US-based cruise ship line Crystal Cruises president Gregg Michel, and Hong Kong-based US carrier Cathay Pacific Airways senior vice president for the Americas Tom Wright.

Avramopoulos said that the comparative advantages provided by Greece as an international tourism destination included high quality of services provided, the value-for-money ratio of the product offered, and the importance of Greek civilization as a common legacy and means for inter-cultural rapprochement among peoples.

He also outlined the changes recently being advanced by the government, which aim at "further increasing" the competitive-ness of the tourism product and Greece's evolution into an "international tourism model".

Replying to questions, Avramopoulos gave a comprehensive overview of the services, prospects, advantages and beauty offered by Greece not only to tourists but also to prospective investors in the tourism sector.

Questioned on the repercussions of terrorism on tourism development in Greece, Avramopoulos noted that "terrorism is not a local or regional phenomenon, but an international problem, and its psychological impact affects the entire world".

He cited as an example the terrorist attacks last summer in Egypt and Britain, which resulted in a 10-15 percent decline in tourism arrivals in Greece for a period of 10 days.

However, the minister added, "2005 was a very successful year for our country in terns of attracting tourists due to its exceptional safety conditions".

He said foreign tourists consider Greece to be very safe, and the successful hosting of the Athens 2004 Olympic Games, the measures that had been taken, but also the Greek society, which presents the lowest crime rate in all of Europe, were contributing factors to that perception.

With respect to American tourists, Avramopoulos said that they were a "very demanding public which, according to surveys, consider Greek culture as the main reason for visiting our country".

On the other hand, he said, Greeks were friendly towards Americans, given that many Greeks have family ties with the US.

Referring to his ministry's upcoming promotional campaign in the US, Avramopoulos said that it would be "large-scale" and would not be limited only to major American cities, as had been last year's campaign.

He further exchanged thoughts and experiences with the delegates and sought their advice so that all together, through boosting tourism, they could contribute to global growth, peace and stability.

Taking the podium after Avramopoulos, Fuller said that China has become the "primary field" for the promotion of the Marriott chain, adding that significant progress had been achieved in market research, which aimed at better serving the customers in the field of recreational tourism and professional travel (business trips).

Michel, in turn, stressed the important role played by geopolitics in Crystal Cruises' strategic planning.

Finally, Wright outlined the efforts being made by Cathay Pacific to improve its airline services.

On Sunday night, Avramopoulos was the guest of honor at a dinner hosted by the Conde Nast Traveler magazine, which was attended by officials of the US tourism industry and media.

On Monday night, Avramopoulos will accept the magazine's "Readers Choice Award" for Greece, and the island of Mykonos specifically -- which was selected by the magazine's American readers as the most popular tourist destination -- during a ceremony at New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art.

[24] Competition in tourism calls for differentiated product, development minister says

ATHENS, 18/10/2005 (ANA)

As competition in the sector intensifies, "it becomes necessary for the tourism industry to restructure and to continuously adapt itself [to changing conditions], to capitalize on new technologies, IT and communication so that it can directly target specific market segments," he said.

The ministry is helping hoteliers and others who rent rooms and apartments to set up an electronic network by providing funding through the Competitiveness program, Sioufas said.

Similar funding is also available through the new development law and the entrepreneurial program "Information Society", he added.

Sioufas praised the government for its initiatives in the tourism sector, noting the increase in tourist arrivals and generated revenue achieved in 2005.

According to the minister, tourist arrivals were up 8% during the first seven months of 2005 compared with the same period in 2004, while revenue was up approximately 10%.

Sioufas also noted that after the successful staging of the Athens Olympics, the Greek capital will be hosting the European Corporate Games next month.

Finally, he said that 42.5% of investment plans already approved by the finance ministry concern the tourism industry.

[25] Development ministers say gov't contains inflation despite record fuel prices

ATHENS, 18/10/2005 (ANA)

The announcement added that without the repercussion of the record price of fuel, inflation in Greece would have been at the stability levels of the Eurozone.

The difference between Greek inflation and the corresponding in the Eurozone in September 2005 (1.4 per cent) is lower than that of September 2003 (1.7 per cent then).

The repercussion of fuel on Greek inflation is double the repercussion on inflation in the Eurozone, while Greece's dependence on petroleum products is almost triple, given that it pays for the import of oil four percent of the Gross National Product, against 1.5 percent of the GNP in the other European countries.

Following the repercussion of the record price of fuel (by 1.35 per cent against 0.51 per cent in the corresponding month of 2004 and almost nil in the corresponding month of 2003), the average inflation in September 2005 was 3.4 per cent, that is, at the exact levels with those of September 2003 (3.4 per cent) and at lower levels against the same month of 2004 (3.6 per cent).

[26] Gov't guarantees funding of pension system, minister says

ATHENS, 18/10/2005 (ANA)

Speaking to reporters, after a meeting with Economy and Finance Minister George Alogoskoufis, Panagiotopoulos said budget funds were adequate to ensure funding of agencies and pension payments, adding the government was ready to release more money if needed. He was replying to comments and press reports that the government faced problems in funding the pension system.

The Greek minister said more time was needed to complete a procedure of issuing a Presidential decree over the reform of banks' pension system and stressed that National Bank needed to pay the cost of a voluntary retirement scheme promoted by its management.

Economy and Finance Minister George Alogoskoufis said the government submitted to the European Commission its National Reform Program, based on provisions of the Lisbon Strategy, aimed to boost Greek exports and strengthen economic competitiveness.

[27] Private healthcare sector to continue growing strongly in Greece, report

ATHENS, 18/10/2005 (ANA)

The report said that private healthcare services' share in total health spending in Greece was 47.5 percent in 2003 and added that more than 400 diagnostics centers operated around the country.

The private sector grew an annual average 12.9 percent in the period 1997-2004, with general hospitals growing by 15.5 percent, and maternity clinics growing by 11.1 percent annually over the same period. Diagnostics centers rose an average 8.7 percent in the 1997-2004 period.

The report said it expected current high growth rates to continue in the coming years due to a constant evolution of the medical science and technology, an ageing population and flexibility in healthcare spending. ICAP said it expected private clinics' revenues to grow by 15 percent this year and in 2006, maternity clinics' revenues to rise by 5-6 percent and diagnostic centers' revenues to increase by 5.0 percent over the same period.

[28] Kosmima fair to be held in Thessaloniki, Oct 21-24

THESSALONIKI, 18/10/2005 (ANA)

Speaking to reporters during a news conference held on the occasion of the 20th Kosmima international fair - to be held in Thessaloniki October 21-24 - Vildiridis said the summer of 2005 was satisfactory - particularly in tourist areas. He noted, however, that better coordination between agencies from the tourism and commerce sectors was needed to further boost business in the jewelry sector.

Representatives from the jewel manufacturers association of Thessaloniki sounded more pessimistic saying that increased numbers of tourist arrivals in the country did not combine with higher jewelry sales in the country, while he stressed that direct exports of Greek jewel was less than 17 percent of total production, while indirect (sales to tourists) were 50 percent.

Helexpo's vice president, Constantinos Belibasakis, said a total of 250 exhibitors participated in this year's Kosmima fair, of which 181 were Greek and 69 foreign exhibitors from 16 countries (Austria, Belgium, France, Italy, UK, Switzerland, Turkey, India, Germany, Iran, Lithuania, Denmark, Poland, Spain, Canada and Czech Republic).

[29] Increase of Russian tourists to Greece

ATHENS, 18/10/2005 (ANA)

According to Liaskos, who attended a tourism exhibit in St. Petersburg, Greece's post-Olympic image and the advertising campaign launched by the National Tourism Organization (EOT) contributed to the increase as did the acceleration of visa issuance.

The outlook for 2006 is also optimistic with the upward trend expected to continue, according to V. Nikivorov, president of St. Petersburg's tour operators association.

The two countries will be collaborating to further promote Greek tourism. For this purpose, a Russian delegation of travel agents and journalists will be visiting Greece in May.

[30] Aegean Airlines wins European distinction

ATHENS, 18/10/2005 (ANA)

ERA has 220 member-companies and is the body which represents the interests of the regional airline industry in Europe.

The awarding took place in Sweden during the ERA's annnual General Assembly marking its 25th anniversary.

[31] BA to begin direct London-Rhodes flights in May 2006

ATHENS, 18/10/2005 (ANA)

BA said the destination would be covered with twice-a-week flights from May 3 to October 28 by GB Airways, BA's franchise partner currently servicing the London-Heraklion Crete destination.

GB Airways will use Airbus A320 aircraft offering full BA's service, including Club Europe and Euro Traveller seats.

BA said travel fares for reservations until May 3 would cost 140 euros (return trip).

GB Airways in an independent franchise partner of British Airways since 1995, servicing destinations in France, Spain, Malta, Cyprus, Gibraltar, Morocco and Tunisia.

[32] Greek stocks post slight rise on Monday

ATHENS, 18/10/2005 (ANA)

The composite index rose 0.26 percent to end at 3,340.63 points, with turnover a low 132.5 million euros.

The FTSE/ASE 20 index for blue chip and heavy traded stocks rose 0.05 pct, the FTSE/ASE MID 40 index eased 0.31 pct and the FTSE/ASE SmallCap 80 index rose 0.91 percent.

The IT Solutions (4.45 pct), Refineries (3.23 pct) and Textiles (3.22 pct) indices scored the biggest percentage gains of the day. Broadly, advancers led decliners by 134 to 121 with another 72 issues unchanged.

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