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Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English, 05-10-21Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English Directory - Previous Article - Next ArticleFrom: The Athens News Agency at <http://www.ana.gr/>October 21, 2005CONTENTS
[01] No bird flu in Greek samples sent to UK; EU experts on OinoussesATHENS, 21/10/2005 (ANA)Three experts sent by the European Union arrived on the small Aegean island of Oinousses on Thursday afternoon, just hours after the Community's Veterinary Laboratories in Weybridge, Surrey announced that initial tests on the samples sent from Greece had been negative for the H5 type of avian flu virus.An announcement by the Greek agriculture ministry said that the Weybridge lab had failed to find evidence of the H5 virus using the rapid RT-PCR test but was continuing tests on the samples and would release its final results within a few days. This was confirmed by a European Commission spokesman in Brussels, who said that EU services had asked for more samples to be sent from Greece. The spokesman also noted, in response to questions, that the EU was generally satisfied with the level of cooperation with Greek authorities on this issue. The tests are expected to show whether the turkey in question was infected with the mutated and highly deadly H5N1 virus, which can also be transmitted to humans, or less dangerous strains of bird flu. Meanwhile, the three experts sent from the EU Veterinary and Foods Service made their way to Oinousses after spending the morning on the island of Chios - where Oinousses belongs administratively - in a lengthy meeting with the head of the Chios prefecture veterinary service Yiannis Karydas and veterinarian Panagiotis Triantafyllou, from the Greek agriculture ministry. Arriving on Oinousses at 15:00 in the afternoon, they immediately visited the free-range turkey farm where the bird suspected of a bird flu infection to begin an on-the-spot examination. This was concluded after about 20 minutes, while no samples were taken from any of the birds. Leaving the farm, one of the veterinary experts said that their job was simply to find out how local authorities had handled the case, while noting that he could make no comment. The three inspectors departed from Chios for Athens on Thursday evening. [02] Bird flu pandemic highly unlikely, Deputy Health Minister saysLONDON, 21/10/2005 (ANA/L. Tsirigotakis)The risk of a bird flu pandemic is extremely low European Union health ministers and experts concluded after an informal meeting on Thursday, Deputy Health and Social Solidarity Minister George Konstantopoulos said.He added that poor communication contributed to the public's panic since it was not clarified that there are three different types of bird flu. The EU will seek to make that clarification, he said. The EU ministers also agreed to the creation of a coordination centre and a solidarity fund of ¬ 1 billion in order to meet the needs of various countries affected by the bird flu virus. Finally, Konstantopoulos said that the EU health ministers also decided to press pharmaceutical manufacturers to increase their production of flu shots. [03] Increased measures against bird flu taken at bordersATHENS, 21/10/2005 (ANA)Increased measures are being taken at the customs houses of Kipi and Ormenios on Greece's northern and eastern borders to prevent the spread of avian influenza (bird flu) by car tires.Cars entering Greece from Turkey and Bulgaria are being decontaminated by driving through grooves containing liquid disinfectant, while an automatic sprinkler system has also been set into operation. Meanwhile, officials of the Veterinary Divisions of the prefectures/members of the Greece-Bulgaria-Turkey network will meet at noon on Friday at Didymoteichos to examine the planning of preventive actions to confront the possible outbreak of bird flu cases on the border region among the three countries. The results of tests and analyses on 69 samples of migratory birds sent to the Thessaloniki Veterinary Laboratory are expected next week. [04] Gov't considers support measures for poultry breedersATHENS, 21/10/2005 (ANA)The government is considering adopting support measures for poultry breeders after a possible case of bird flu on the island of Oinousses caused concern among consumers.Deputy Ministers Christos Folias (finance), Alex Kontos (agriculture) and Nikos Angelopoulos (labor) agreed to re-examine poultry breeders' demands for financial measures such as loans and arrangements concerning their contributions as employers, after meeting with the latter's representatives on Thursday. The government said it would re-examine poultry-breeders' demands after the relevant economic studies have been submitted. After the meeting, Kontos said that Greece has already raised the issue of compensation with the EU, while the creation of an EU Solidarity Fund is being discussed. [05] Farmers' union proposes protective measures for breeders and consumersATHENS, 21/10/2005 (ANA)The farmers' union PASEGES suggested the creation of a permanent Food Safety Committee that will address and contain consequences for consumers and breeders/producers during a related crisis.PASEGES announced its proposal in a statement on Thursday after meeting with poultry breeders' representatives. According to the farmers' union, bird flu should not lead to panic since consumption of poultry does not pose any health risk to consumers, particularly when the poultry products consumed are from organized farms that operate under proper conditions. PASEGES called on the government to raise public awareness on the issue - through advertisements, informational programs, and announcements - and to re-establish the public's trust in Greek poultry products. The union also called on the government to support poultry breeders financially until the market returns to normal conditions. [06] Greece played key role in EU-Russia visa deal, foreign ministry saysATHENS, 21/10/2005 (ANA)Greece was one of the countries that played a key role in the rapid conclusion of negotiations for the EU-Russia agreement to simplify visa procedures, Greek foreign ministry spokesman George Koumoutsakos said on Thursday.The spokesman announced that readmission and simplified visa regime agreements were monographed between the EU and Russia last week on the sidelines of an EU justice and interior ministers' council, following the conclusion of the European Commission's negotiations with Russia at the last EU foreign ministers' council. He said the agreement will go into effect once ratified by the parliaments of the 25 EU member-states and the Russia Duma. The agreement simplifies the procedure for issuing visas to certain categories of Russian federation and EU citizens, such as business people and executives, journalists, scientists, researchers, parliamentarians and people attending organized events of various kinds, such as sports competitions, conferences, artistic and cultural events etc. It also scraps visa requirements for holders of diplomatic passports. The Greek side believes the agreement will greatly facilitate travel and contacts between the EU and Russia and further increase the stream of Russian visitors to Greece, Koumoutsakos said. [07] Foreign ministry spokesman comments on US sec'y of state invitation to T/C leader TalatATHENS, 21/10/2005 (ANA)Greek foreign ministry spokesman George Koumoutsakos said Thursday that US secretary of state Condoleezza Rice's invitation to Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat had been addressed to Talat in his capacity as leader of the Turkish Cypriot community on Cyprus, and had been a verbal invitation.Replying to questions during a regular press briefing, Koumoutsakos stressed that any actions, measures or initiatives must help towards a productive placement and the prospect for resolution of the Cyprus problem, and not the contrary. He called such meetings as a step in the right direction only provided that they helped, warning that "otherwise, it would be well for them to be avoided". To other questions, he reiterated that the invitation had been conveyed verbally, and addressed to Talat in his capacity as leader of the Turkish Cypriot community. Koumoutsakos reiterated that Greece's position was unwavering, and that the entirety of actions made with the aim of recognition of the Turkish Cypriot pseudo-state in the occupied north of the island republic "do not help". He further noted that Greece was not opposed to dialogue, but added that every initiative must be made with the prospect of resolution of the problem. [08] FM spokesman comments on Statements by U.S. Under Secretary of State BurnsATHENS, 21/10/2005 (ANA)Foreign ministry spokesman George Koumoutsakos said on Thursday that statements made by U.S. Assistant Secretary of State Nicholas Burns were "unfortunate". He added that the U.S. official communicated at his own initiative with Foreign Minister Petros Molyviatis after making his statements.Acting with reservations as to the accurate transmission of the statements by Burns, who reportedly said that it "would be a shame for Greece" to lodge a veto at the European Union and NATO for the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM), Koumoutsakos termed them "unfortunate" and added that Greece is following a policy of respect for international law which allows no ground for either indirect or direct suggestions. The spokesman further said that the Greek embassy in Washington has also notified the State Department on the issue. [09] Latest EU-Turkey diplomatic snag arises after Euro-MP with Europarliament passport refused entryISTANBUL, 21/10/2005 (ANA)The latest "glitch" in Turkey's embryonic status as a European Union candidate-state occurred here on Thursday, as Turkish authorities initially prevented a Greek Euro-deputy from entering the country with a European Parliament passport, relenting only when he paid for an entry visa and after protests by both EU officials and Greek diplomats.The incident was exacerbated by the fact that Euro-MP Ioannis Varvitsiotis, a veteran member of Greece's ruling New Democracy party and a one-time defense minister, was part of a European People's Party (EPP) Euro-parliament group delegation arriving in Turkey for the 9th Dialogue between the Orthodox Church and the EPP. "... I don't know whether this (type of incident) has previously occurred, nevertheless, it happened to me. I sat there (airport) for three and a half hours, waiting and protesting constantly, and only after protests by the Greek embassy, the European People's Party and the European Parliament was I allowed to leave, and after I paid for a visa, of course, on a diplomatic passport -- astonishing," Varvitsiotis told an Athens radio station. According to reports, upon his arrival from Brussels, Varvitsiotis was told by Turkish customs officials that his European Parliament passport did not constitute a valid travel document as far as they are concerned. Varvitsiotis noted that the entire incident was incompatible with Turkey's efforts to join the great European family, adding that such actions blemish the neighboring country's image. Gov't reaction: In Athens, a foreign ministry spokesman said if the incident was reported accurately, then "such behavior does not benefit Turkey's image and the sincere efforts needed to achieve its (Turkey) European goals". Finally, government spokesman Theodoros Roussopoulos noted that Varvitsiotis did not have his Greek passport with him; rather he carried a "laisser-passer" during his arrival at Istanbul's airport. "The issue was resolved thanks to the assistance offered Mr. Varvitsiotis by our consular services, thereby ending his inconvenience," the spokesman said. [10] Greece wants to up aid spending, Molyviatis tells Athens eventATHENS, 21/10/2005 (ANA)Greece spent 0.023 per cent of its GDP on aid actions in 2004 and will make every effort to increase this percentage and achieve the targets set by the United Nations and the European Union, Greek Foreign Minister Petros Molyviatis told an event organized by the relief organization Hellenic Aid on Thursday to present the ministry's humanitarian and developmental work.Molyviatis said that Greece spent ¬ 465 million on reconstruction programs and humanitarian aid actions in the previous year. "The government, the foreign ministry and the International Developmental Cooperation Service will continue the effort to respond to humanitarian crises and developmental needs around the world with transparency and efficiency," the minister added. Deputy Foreign Minister Evripides Stylianidis, who had organized Thursday's event, pointed to the pledge made by Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis toward the European Commission, in which the premier had underlined Greece's determination to meet European targets to increase state aid to 0.56 per cent of GDP by the year 2010, in spite of Greece's shaky public finances. Karamanlis made the pledge in a letter to Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso, in which he outlined Greece's position at the UN General Assembly for the Millennium targets against world poverty. The deputy minister also stressed the need to highlight Greece's humanitarian contribution both at home and abroad, so that Greeks knew what their money was being spent on and in order to promote Greece worldwide as a "humane world power" that served the values of modern civilization and democracy. [11] Greek transport planes participate in aid operation to PakistanATHENS, 21/10/2005 (ANA)Greek Air Force C-130 transport planes are participating in the airlifting of aid to quake-ravaged northeastern Pakistan as part of a NATO contingent cooperating with the UN High Com-mission for Refugees.Greek, French and British military transport planes took off on Wednesday from a base in SE Turkey, as a total of 860 tons of humanitarian aid for Pakistan has been collected at the UN's warehouses in the region. The operation marks the first time NATO and the UN High Commission for Refugees have cooperated on such a scale. [12] Ecumenical Patriarch Vartholomeos sternly calls on Ankara to reopen Halki, respect the Ecumenical PatriarchateISTANBUL, 21/10/2005 (ANA - A. Kourkoulas)Ecumenical Patriarch Vartholomeos on Thursday directly challenged the Turkish government to exhibit the necessary political will leading to the reopening of the Halki seminary, following controversial statements by a ruling party spokesman disputing the Patriarchate's ecumenical nature."If there was political will, they could open the seminary under the same manner (in which it was closed)," the Patriarch said in addressing delegates at the 9th Dialogue between the Orthodox Church and the European People's Party (EPP) grouping. He added: "No such political will exists". Moreover, Vartholomeos did not mince his words before Euro-parliamentarians, calling the theories set out by Turkish ruling party spokesman Saban Disli as a "disgrace for the 21st century". In his comments, Disli, who is also a vice-president of the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP), referred to the Treaty of Lausanne to back up his contention that the Patriarchate only represents the dwindling Greek Orthodox minority of Istanbul, while claiming it is not an Ecumenical institution but rather a Turkish institution. He also claimed that the Halki school issue and property rights of ethnic Greeks of Turkey are bilateral and reciprocal matters between Athens and Ankara. "They (Turkish government) say the Patriarchate is a Turkish institution, but they do not recognize us as a legal entity," Vartholomeos countered, adding that numerous articles in the Turkish press about the Patriarchate repeat falsehoods. Regarding the term "ecumenical", the Patriarch stressed that it was a "historical title that hails from the 6th century AD and one recognized by all the Christian Churches. All of my predecessors have used the title, bestowed upon them since the 6th century. I am continuing the tradition of my predecessors". "We don't accept being treated as second-class citizens," he said, clarifying that he was not referring to Turkish society but to the country's bureaucracy. "We live and participate in society, during the Ramadan, everywhere. We have problems with bureaucracy," he again underlined, noting that various official measures aim precisely at restricting the freedom of an ancient Christian institution. Greek gov't response: In Athens, a foreign ministry spokesman said the statements by the Turkish ruling party official directly fly in the face of International Law's principles and values, while such comments also create problems in terms of Turkey's implementation of commitments vis-a-vis the EU-Turkey negotiating framework and Europe's acquis communautaire. Finally, in response to the Turkish official's statement, Education Minister Marietta Yiannakou stressed from Istanbul that "respect of the Christian Orthodox believers' religious freedoms and the unhindered operation of the Ecumenical Patriarchate as a religious institution comprise a primary condition for Turkey's European course." [13] Turkish state has specific obligations towards Orthodox faithful, education minister saysISTANBUL, 21/10/2005 (ANA/A. Kourkoulas)Education Minister Marietta Yiannakou held talks with Ecumenical Patriarch Vartholomeos at the Phanar on Thursday and said afterwards that "the presence of European personalities (in Istanbul) reminds the Turkish state that it has specific obligations concerning the religious freedom and the individual rights of the Orthodox faithful living here."The minister further said that "we consider as an issue of paramount importance absolute recognition and respect for the religious Authority of the Ecumenical Patriarchate and secondly the possibility of the Greek Orthodox faithful to exercise their religious duties and to fully enjoy their individual rights. This constitutes a precondition for the European course of Turkey." She also said that "religious freedom and the protection of the rights of minorities are an essential precondition for the accession of any country to the European Union." Yiannakou is in Istanbul to attend the 9th meeting of the European People's Party and the Orthodox Church. [14] Security Council discussion on situation in Kosovo to begin Oct. 24, foreign ministry spokesman saysATHENS, 21/10/2005 (ANA)A discussion on the situation in Kosovo is slated to begin in the UN Security Council on October 24, with the participation of the UN secretary general's special envoy Kai Eide, two other special emissaries and a representative of the government of Serbia, Greece's foreign ministry spokesman George Koumoutsakos told a regular press briefing on Thursday, adding that the Security Council member states would contribute their views, while the Council presidency would compile a draft Statement.Eide's report will mark the commencement of the process of discussions on the future status of Kosovo. The discussion is anticipated end-November, and according to sources, the report will acknowledge that some progress has been made, but that the question of the non-Albanian minorities as well as the issue of decentralization and the return of the refugees to their homes will be put forward. Koumoutsakos said in reply to a question that it was not possible to pre-determine the course of the discussions, adding that the relevant directorate of the foreign ministry was drafting a series of proposals and initiatives in view of the discussion. Greece holds a non-permanent seat on the Security Council for the two-year period 2005-2006. Athens believes that any solution regarding Kosovo's future status must be in line with the European values and the principles of International Law, and should progress within the framework of the region's European prospect, place weight on the immediate implementation of the criteria, put forward the matter of decentralization, the protection of the non-Albanian minorities, and aim at safeguarding Kosovo's multi-cultural heritage. Athens further desires a more enhanced role of the European Union, with the final goal of safeguarding stability and progress, as well as the non-alteration of the borders. [15] Public order minister to visit Russia on October 23-27ATHENS, 21/10/2005 (ANA)Public Order Minister George Voulgarakis will visit Russia on October 23-27 to examine close cooperation between Greece and Russia on combatting organized crime. He will be accompanied by Greek Intelligence Service commander Ioannis Korantis, Greek Police chief George Angelakos and other officials.The minister will be meeting Russia's Security Council Secretary General Igor Ivanov, Interior Minister Rashid Nurgaliyev and the chief of the Federal National Security Service Nikolai Patrousev. Talks will focus on security issues, the transfer of experience and know-how obtained with organizing security for last year's Athens Olympic Games, terrorism, gunrunning, illegal immigration, human trafficking, drug trafficking, electronic crime and money laundering. In an interview with the Russian news agency Novosti, Voulgarakis said that at a purely political level considerable experience will be obtained by becoming acquainted with the structures and functions of the Russian state. He added that the widening of cooperation between Greek and Russian intelligence services will secure a high level of security at internal and regional level. He also pointed out that energy pipelines linking the Mediterranean and the Black Sea must be shielded against crime. [16] Gov't on referendum in IraqATHENS, 21/10/2005 (ANA)The Greek government on Thursday stressed that last Saturday's referendum in Iraq was clearly a step towards democracy, "one that the Iraqi people must quickly exploit in order to assume the country's reins as well as to ensure stability, peace and the country's future progress."Foreign Minister spokesman George Koumoutsakos made statement in reply to a reporter's question during a press briefing in Athens. [17] PASOK leader hosts dinner for Arab Ambassadors to GreeceATHENS, 21/10/2005 (ANA)Main opposition PASOK leader George Papandreou on Wednesday night hosted a dinner in honor of the ambassadors of Arab countries accredited in Greece.During the dinner, the discussion centered on developments in the Middle East and on Euro-Mediterranean cooperation, which this year marks the 10th anniversary since its initiation in Barcelona. Addressing the Arab ambassadors, Papandreou stressed the importance of friendship and cooperation for the Mediterranean region, and noted the efforts in that direction made by his father, the late PASOK founder and former prime minister Andreas Papandreou, by current Greek President of the Republic Karolos Papoulias, who served as foreign minister under the Andreas Papandreou governments in the 1980s, and also to his own efforts, as foreign minister under the preceding PASOK government of Costas Simitis, which culminated during the Greek presidency of the EU in the first half of 2003. Papandreou said that the fundamental issues of the region were development and security while, on the Palestinian issue, he placed particular importance on implementation of the Road Map in order to attain a solution and an independent Palestinian state. Dean of the Arab Diplomatic Corps of Greece and Ambassador of Lebanon William Habib, who has many years of service in the post in Greece, said that the best cooperation between Greece and the Arab countries had developed during Papandreou's tenure in the foreign minister, attributing this to the traditional good relations between the Papandreou family and the Arab world. The dinner was attended by the Ambassadors of Lebanon, Morocco, Syria, Algeria, Iraq, Jordan, Egypt, Kuweit, Tunisia, Palestine, Saudi Arabia and Libya. On the part of PASOK, the dinner was attended by the party's coordinator on foreign affairs and defense issues Michalis Chrysohoidis, and the director of Papandreou's diplomatic office Dimitris Droutsas. [18] European cross-border cooperation conference opens in DramaDRAMA, 21/10/2005 (ANA)The largest cross-border cooperation event organized in Europe this year opened on Thursday in the city of Drama.The central theme of this year's conference, which runs through Saturday, is "Cross-border Cooperation and Implementation of the Lisbon Strategy". The conference is organized under the aegis of the Secretariat General for the Eastern Macedonia-Thrace Region, and the session was opened by secretary general Michalis Angelopoulos. Main speakers will be Greece's deputy foreign minister Euripides Stylianidis and Bulgarian minister for regional development Asen Gagaouzov, while president of the Committee of the Regions of the European Union Peter Straub will also address the conference. The conference is organized by the "Nestos-Mesta Euroregion" (www.euroregion.gr), which was established in 1990 and is the first structure of cross-border cooperation to be instituted. The body was founded by and operates in SE Europe, with the Drama Chamber as its headquarters. The conference events will take place in Drama and the neighboring Bulgarian town of Goce Delcev. The conference is taking place in the framework of the General Assembly and Annual Meeting of the Association of European Border Regions-AEBR (www.aebr.net), which is the main second-level organization of all the border and cross-border regions of Europe. Drama Chamber president Kyriakos Harakidis told ANA that attending the conference were more than 250 high-ranking delegates of the European Union, the Council of Europe, general secretaries of regions from all the European countries and officials of the euroregions and cross-border cooperation bodies from the Atlantic to the Urals and from the Baltic Sea to the Mediterranean Sea, while a large number of Greek officials would also attend the sessions. [19] Justice Minister confirms Swiss authorities' cooperation sought for opening of Kokkalis accountsATHENS, 21/10/2005 (ANA)Justice minister Anastasis Papaligouras on Thursday confirmed, replying to press questions, that judicial assistance has been sought from the Swiss authorities to open up two bank accounts belonging to businessman Socrates Kokkalis.Replying to reporters after a 90-minute meeting with prime minister Costas Karamanlis, Papligouras said that "in the framework of speeding up the dispensation of justice and the ensuring of catharsis, it is certain that all pending issues are progressing". "No one is above the law," he said. Asked whether the statement also referred to the case of Kokkalis, Papaligouras tersely replied 'Yes'. Papaligouras stressed that catharsis in the justice sector was proceeding, and would continue until no shadow was left in the sector of Greek justice. The minister said that another major issue, that of speeding up the process of dispensation of justice, there have already been tangible results following the relevant law passed by parliament, and spectacular progress. He further opined that even more steps will be made. On the issue of decongesting correctional facilities and making them more human, Papaligouras noted that only a few days ago a series of cultural events in prisons had been concluded, adding that this marked a big change. Papaligouras said that decongestion of the state penitentiaries has proceeded, as had the separation and categorization of inmates on the basis of crimes committed. "For us, every last inmate is a creative citizen of tomorrow, with the existing orientation and training programs," he said. [20] Scandal-dogged Supreme Court judge resigns as head of justices' unionATHENS, 21/10/2005 (ANA)Supreme Court Vice-President Achilleas Zissis on Thursday resigned his position as president of the Judges and Prosecutors Union.The board of the union will convene later in the day to elect a new president. Zissis faces outstanding charges of breach of duty and failing to submit complete statements of income and assets required of all justices, MPs and other public officials under laws designed to combat corruption. Justice Minister Anastasios Papaligouras has also brought the case before the Supreme Disciplinary Council seeking his permanent dismissal. Zissis was also temporarily suspended from duties two weeks ago by the 15-member Supreme Court Council. The charges against Zissis are linked to allegations that he intervened in order to secure favorable rulings in cases against businessman Konstantinos Avramidis, who in turn paid for construction materials used in a holiday home owned by Zissis and his wife on Crete. [21] New Hellenic Navy gunboat launchedATHENS, 21/10/2005 (ANA)The Hellenic Navy on Thursday launched a new gunboat, identified as the "Krataios", the last of fourth such vessels designed and delivered by the Skaramanga shipyard, west of Piraeus.A flag-raising ceremony, which coincided with the 178th anniversary of the Battle of Navarino, was attended by the defense ministry's civil and military leadership. [22] Greek gov't determined to encourage investment, business activity, PM saysATHENS, 21/10/2005 (ANA)The Greek government is determined to encourage investment, remove disincentives to business activity and enforce fair rules of the game, Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis said on Thursday.In a written message to an Economist conference held in Athens, the Greek PM stressed the government was exploiting its advantages to the full, fully aware of the opportunities ahead and steering the Greek economy into a new course. "Greece has crossed the threshold of an era of opportunity. As thousands of visitors witnessed first-hand last summer, Greece is moving in a totally new direction. More confident than ever, our nation has hosted, for the first time in more than a century, the Olympic Games, which were considered by all participants as a great success. The Games' success is having repercussions that largely exceed the mere event. Greece has a new face in the world and the whole world has witnessed Greece's new image. Along with it, a new environment for tourism, a new environment for investment, a new environment for growth has emerged," Karamanlis said. The Greek Premier, in his message, reiterated the government's goals of implementing a policy of gradual fiscal adjustment aimed to contain budget deficits and secure long-term fiscal stability. "With the tax reform law that we passed in December, we have introduced major cuts on corporate taxes that aim to spur private investment," he noted. Karamanlis also stressed that a new investment incentives law offered generous subsidies to private investment programs, while at the same time the government was eliminating various barriers to private investment and has established a new privatizations agenda aimed to maximize revenue for the state and encourage competition. The government has also legislated a new framework for Public-Primate Partnerships, "which lays the foundations for the more efficient provision of public goods and services and the active development of state-owned real estate through partnerships with the private sector". The Greek PM noted that the economy was responding to the reforms. "Despite high oil prices and sub-par economic performance in Eurozone, the rate of growth will remain one of the highest in Europe, reaching 3.6 pct for this year. Solid private consumption, higher exports by 7.3 pct as compared to the first two quarters of last year and a double-digit increase in foreign visitors are driving the economy. The unemployment rate has fallen to 9.6 pct. The fiscal deficit will fall from 6.6 pct in 2004 to 3.6 pct of GDP this year, in line with our commitments to the European Union. In 2006, we expect the deficit to fall below the 3.0 pct ceiling, to 2.8 pct of GDP," Karamanlis said. "For Greece this is the beginning of a new era. An era for macroeconomic stability, a competitive tax regime, more flexibility in labor, capital and product markets, more investment in education and training, more balance growth. Greece embraces this new era of growth and prosperity," he said. [23] Greece offers large-scale investment opportunities, minister saysATHENS, 21/10/2005 (ANA)Greece offers large-scale investment opportunities to foreign investors, Development Minister Dimitris Sioufas said on Thursday.Addressing an Economist conference on a government initiative to promote closer cooperation between the public and private sectors, Sioufas said the Greek government's initiatives would bring positive results very soon. The Greek minister said there were significant opportunities for joint cooperation in Olympic Games', tourism and port real estate assets. Sioufas said five international tenders were already under way by Olympic Real Estate Enterprise and another eight tenders by Touristic Development Enterprise, while other public organizations were drafting their own studies for the commercial use of their assets. The government is expected next week to submit to parliament a draft law on deregulating electricity and natural gas markets in the country, paving the way for large-scale investments in the country. Sioufas said a founding agreement on an energy community -including 14 countries from Southeastern Europe and Mediterranean- would be signed in Greece on October 25. Sioufas said his government was also taking measures to facilitate licensing and installation of manufacturing enterprises in the country, along with efforts to draft a national town planning program by summer 2006. The use of private capital, in addition to public funds, could help in implementing the necessary investments in infrastructure and services in the country, L. Korres, secretary-general for Joint Ventures between the Public and Private Sectors, told the Economist conference. "Conditions for mobilizing private capital are ripe," Korres said adding the Greek society was ready to accept closer cooperation between the public and private sectors. EFG Eurobank Ergasias' chief executive, Nikos Nanopoulos, noted that if a new legislation was properly used it could become a significant catalyst of growth by supporting investment initiatives and new business activities in Greece. The Greek banker said bank would have a strategic and long-term role in this effort since they could offer consultancy services and full financial support to such projects. Nanopoulos, however, stressed that certain main preconditions should be met to ensure the success of joint ventures between the public and private sectors, such as a clear political will and commitment to support the program, along with a very well trained and expert group of public servants to evaluate such projects. Nanopoulos also urged for full transparency and competition in public tenders. [24] Public Works Minister addresses Economist conference on PPPsATHENS, 21/10/2005 (ANA)The Ministry of the Environment, Town Planning and Public Works will not limit public-private partnerships to only road infrastructure works, but will expand PPPs into other types of projects as well, Minister George Souflias said during his address at the Economist conference in Athens on Thursday.Souflias reminded conference attendees that he had proposed the implementation of PPPs for major works in 1986-87 when he was responsible for formulating New Democracy's economic program. "I am truly glad that nearly two decades later the adoption of this solution, for which I was harshly criticized at the time, is practically universally accepted now by political parties, end-users and Greek society in general," he said. The minister also referred to the projects that have been realized in Greece to date through public-private partnerships. They are: the new Athens international airport 'Eleftherios Venizelos', the Rio-Antirrio Bridge and Attiki Odos. "Based on our experience, we are proceeding with the construction of six roadworks projects valued at roughly ¬ 7 billion through PPPs," he said. Major domestic and foreign construction companies are bidding for these projects. Another ¬ 6 billion is budgeted for other infrastructure projects awarded as public works contracts, bringing the total budget allocated for infrastructure to roughly ¬ 13 billion, "perhaps the most extensive roadworks program under way in Europe today," Souflias said. Through this program, Greece in six years will have a basic road network - 2,400 km in length - compared with 1,100 km today, according to the minister. [25] Second round of reforms to target broader public sector, FinMin saysATHENS, 21/10/2005 (ANA)The second round of the government's economic reforms will target the broader public sector, Finance Minister George Alogoskoufis said during his address at the Economist conference, titled "New Investment Opportunities in Greece through Public-Private Partnerships" on Thursday.The second wave of reforms begins with the bill that entails a new framework for the operation and rationalization of state utilities and organizations, he said. Alogoskoufis said that the Greek economy's weak point is the state's great contribution in the country's GDP. Referring to the 2006 budget, the minister said that it is still being fine-tuned and aims at bringing the deficit down to 2.6% of GDP by further cutting public spending than was foreseen in the draft budget. As for public-private partnerships, Alogoskoufis said that they will make building of infrastructure quicker, more efficient and at a lower fiscal cost. [26] PM and finance minister discuss economic policyATHENS, 21/10/2005 (ANA)Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis had a meeting on Thursday with Economy and Finance Minister George Alogoskoufis on all issues pertaining to the economy.After the meeting, Alogoskoufis said their talks had focused chiefly on the final draft of the budget to be tabled in Parliament, a draft bill for state-run public utilities that is now in the final stages of preparation and a bill for introducing VAT for newly constructed buildings. Fielding questions concerning what reporters called a "climate of scandal", the minister said that "scandal-mongering, or scandals, do not concern the government. [27] Greece ranked second in social protection expenditure growth in theEU ATHENS, 21/10/2005 (ANA)Per capita social protection expenditure rose by 6.4 percent -in real terms- in Greece in the period 1998-2002, the second largest percentage rate of increase in the European Union, Eurostat said on Thursday.In its report on social protection in the EU, the EU executive's statistics agency said Greece ranked second after Ireland (8.7 pct average annual increase) and ahead of the Czech Republic (5.2 pct) and Luxembourg (5.1 pct). On the other hand, Slovakia (0.6 pct), Malta (0.7 pct) and Finland (0.8 pct) recorded the lowest percentage growth rates. On average in the EU25, social protection expenditure1 accounted for 27.7% of GDP in 2002, compared to 27.3% in 2001. Average social protection expenditure as a percentage of GDP continued to mask major disparities between Member States in 2002. The proportion was highest in Sweden (32.5%), France (30.6%), Germany (30.5%) and Denmark (30.0%), while Estonia and Latvia (both 14.3% in 2001), Lithuania (15.2% in 2001) and Ireland2 (16.0%) recorded the lowest ratios. These differences reflect differences in living standards, but are also indicative of the diversity of national social protection systems and of the demographic, economic, social and institutional structures specific to each country. On average in the EU25, pensions accounted for 48% of social benefits in 2001. Pensions4 are the major part of social protection benefits in all Member States except Ireland2. The share of pensions as a percentage of social benefits was highest in Poland (65% in 2001), Latvia (62% in 2002) and Italy (60% in 2002). As a percentage of GDP, in 2002 pensions were highest in Italy (14.9%), Austria (14.6%), Germany (13.4%) and France (13.2%), and lowest in Ireland2 (3.6%), Estonia (6.3% in 2001), Lithuania (7.1%) and Slovakia (7.5%). The EU25 average was 12.5% in 2001. [28] Industrialists meet with EU officials, promote business community's prioritiesBRUSSELS, 21/10/2005 (ANA/M.Spinthourakis)The Federation of Greek Industries' (SEB) executive board is currently in Brussels meeting with European Union officials in order to promote Greek industrialists' priorities.The delegation, headed by SEB President Odysseas Kyriakopoulos, has met with European Commissioners Stavros Dimas, Environment; Joaquin Almunia, Economic and Monetary Affairs; Janez Potocnik, Science and Research; and Viviane Reding, Information Society and Media. SEB's executive board has called on the European Commission to promote an agreement regarding the 2007-2013 EU budget without limiting resources that concern competitiveness, research and development. The board also requested that competitiveness, development, employment, education and rationalization of pension systems be reinforced with the help and through negotiations with social partners. Regarding the Lisbon Strategy, SEB's board urged that the common market of goods and services be finalized. SEB's board will conclude its meetings in Brussels on Friday. [29] Greek current accounts deficit up 36.9 pct in Jan-Aug, yr/yrATHENS, 21/10/2005 (ANA)Greece's current accounts deficit worsened in the eight month period from January to August, the Bank of Greece said on Thursday.The central bank, in its report, said the deficit rose by 36.9 percent, compared with the same period last year to 7.537 billion euros, or 4.6 pct of the country's Gross Domestic Product. The central bank expects the deficit to reach 7.5 pct of GDP this year from 6.3 pct in 2003. The report attributed this unfavorable development to a sharp increase in international oil prices, with Greece's fuel balance's deficit widening by 29 percent over the same period. The vessels' balance showed a deficit of 310 million euros in the first eight months of 2005 from a surplus of 526 million euros last year. The trade deficit -excluding fuel and vessels- fell by 569 million euros. The services' surplus rose by 5.2 percent, with net revenues from shipping services up 5.0 pct while gross revenues from travel services rose by 7.5 pct in the January-August period. The incomes' deficit rose by 671 million euros, due to increased net payments on interest, dividends and profits, while a reduced surplus in the current transfers balance (by 800 million euros) reflected a decline in net current transfers from the EU to the country's general government. The surplus in the capital transfers balance shrank by 25 percent in Jan-August period, compared with the same period last year, to 1.083 billion euros, while direct investments recorded a net outflow of 148 million euros this year, from a net inflow of 600 mln euros in 2004. Foreign investors, however, continued to put money in Greek state securities, totalling 19.8 billion euros in the first eight months of 2005. [30] Energy Community Treaty of countries of SE Europe to be signed in Athens on October 25ATHENS, 21/10/2005 (ANA)The Treaty on the creation of an Energy Community of the countries of southeastern Europe will be signed in Athens on October 25 with the cooperation of the European Commission, the British presidency and the Greek government.Development Minister Dimitris Sioufas said on Thursday that it is a historic moment, since the signing of the agreement is similar to the agreement signed in Paris in 1951 on the creation of the European Coal and Steel Community, which led to the creation of today's Europe of 25 member-states. Over the past 19 months, the development ministry, in cooperation with the foreign ministry and Energy EU Commissioner Andris Piebalgs, as well as the energy ministers of the other member-states of southeastern Europe, overcame considerable obstacles and resolved pending issues that had existed for very many years, the minister said. The European Union and the European Commission, recognizing Greece's leading role, accepted the Greek government's proposal that the signing of this agreement should take place in Athens, Sioufas concluded. [31] Sioufas to meet Chinese industry and commerce minister on FridayATHENS, 21/10/2005 (ANA)Development Minister Dimitris Sioufas will meet on Friday morning with Chinese Industry and Commerce Minister Wang Zhongfu.According to a ministry press release on Thursday, discussed during the meeting will be issues of industrial policy, competition and the protection of the consumer. [32] Papandreou tours Information Society S.A.ATHENS, 21/10/2005 (ANA)Main opposition PASOK leader George Papandreou on Thursday toured the "Information Society S.A." company in Athens, noting that the institution was inaugurated during a previous PASOK government.He also said that upgrading the company's activities will be a top priority for any future PASOK government, while criticizing the government for missing out on 150 million euros of Community funding for the sector, as he said. Papandreou also referred to an initiative of two Greek professors at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) to create a computer that would cost $100, making it accessible to all young adults. "I was surprised to hear the Education Minister [Marietta Giannakou] say that Greece was not interested," he said. [33] Greek stocks ease 0.32 pctATHENS, 21/10/2005 (ANA)Greek stocks ended lower on Thursday, although at a much slower pace compared with the previous day's sharp fall. The composite index fell 0.32 percent to end at 3,266.41 points with turnover a moderate 193.8 million euros.Sector indices ended lower with the IT (2.73 pct), IT Solutions (2.07 pct), Real Estate (1.56 pct) and Parallel market (0.96 pct) suffering the heaviest percentage losses of the day. The Textile (2.46 pct), Metals (0.53 pct), Food-Beverage (0.53 pct) and Investments (0.30 pct) scored gains. The FTSE/ASE 20 index for blue chip and heavy traded stocks fell 0.39 pct, the FTSE/ASE MID 40 index eased 0.21 pct and the FTSE/ASE SmallCap 80 index rose 0.63 pct. Broadly, advancers led decliners by 161 to 99 with another 63 issues unchanged. Derivatives Market Close: Public Power Corp. top in stock futures trade Equity Index Futures: Stock Futures: Bond Market Close: Buyers lag sellers Foreign Exchange Rates: Friday Reference buying rates per euro released by the European Central Bank: U.S. dollar 1.204 [34] OSE train derails outside Thessaloniki, 3 injuries, no fatalitiesTHESSALONIKI, 21/10/2005 (ANA)An OSE passenger train derailed Thursday near the railway station of Adendro, Thessaloniki, and at least three injuries were reported among the 140 passengers, but no fatalities, according to information so far.The injuries were reported to be light or somewhat more serious, and the injured passengers were being taken to Thessaloniki hospital. One of the train's four wagons caught fire upon derailment, but the fire has been extinguished, while two passengers who had been initially trapped were quickly removed. EKAB ambulances and a strong team of firefighters were on the spot. According to OSE sources the train, which was en route from Alexandroupolis, developed mechanical problems and was immobilized for 40 minutes at the Philadelphia station in Kilkis, from where it then continued its route to Thessaloniki after technicians repaired the problem. The accident occurred at 12:50 a.m., as the train was entering the Adendros station, where no stop was scheduled, three of the train's four wagons derailed, one of which caught fire. Most of the passengers managed to disembark, while two passengers who were trapped in the derailed train were removed by employees of the OSE station who rushed to help. Human error cause for train's derailment: The Hellenic Railways Organization (OSE) passenger train that derailed on Thursday near the station of Adendro, Thessaloniki was most likely due to human error, according to the company. Out of the 140 passengers on board, 15 were injured, one of which, a baby, had to undergo surgery in Thessaloniki. According to OSE officials investigating the accident, the train's driver failed to reduce speed as he changed tracks to enter the station. The driver and another OSE employee have been suspended from duty until the end of the investigation. [35] Deputy FM Stylianidis addresses conference on UN's 60th anniversaryATHENS, 21/10/2005 (ANA)Deputy Foreign Minister Evripidis Stylianidis addressed a conference on Thursday titled "60 years of the UN: problems, challenges, prospects", organized in Athens by the University of Indianapolis."Greece, being a non-permanent member of the Security Council over the 2005-2006 period, encourages dialogue between UN member-states, hoping for the tabling of proposals and ideas which are necessary to build a more peaceful 21st century," he said. "Security, growth and human rights are the three directions in which the UN must move simultaneously in this new era of international relations," Stylianidis added, reiterating the message sent by UN Secretary General Kofi Annan in New York in September on the occasion of the Organization's 60th anniversary. Stylianidis said that the UN secretary general has offered his mediation in many cases and his good services to resolve international disputes. "During the Cold War, the UN averted a possible war between the two rival camps and promoted the signing of international agreements, including the sector of the non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction," the deputy minister pointed out. Lastly, Stylianidis said that "during the 60 years of its operation, it contributed to the improvement of living conditions worldwide, the defense and imposition of respect for human rights, the promotion of equality between the two genders, education and protection for the environment." [36] Alternate government spokesman addresses UN Model conferenceATHENS, 21/10/2005 (ANA)Alternate government spokesman Evangelos Antonaros on Thursday addressed the UN Model conference at the German School in Athens, stressing the particular importance placed by Greece on the United Nations Organization and the work it is carrying out."The fact that Greece was elected a non-permanent member of the Security Council over the 2005-2006 period (for the second time after the 1952-1953 period), constitutes the most evident confirmation of the recognition our country has internationally as a democratic and modern country. As a country which respects international law and which pursues peaceful cooperation and coexistence between the peoples of the world," the alternate spokesman said. Antonaros placed particular importance on the "historic participation" of Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis in the Security Council in September, stressing that it is the first time that a Greek prime minister participates in this body. Addresses were also made by Ekaterini Katsambe-Marneri, representing the Athens mayor, as well as by the ambassadors of Germany, Denmark, Switzerland, Mexico, India and Algeria and the charge d'Affaires of the U.S. embassy. The event is being attended by 750 pupils, 450 of whom are from Germany, Italy, Mexico, Poland, Romania, Russia, Turkey, Austria, Bulgaria, Cyprus and Egypt, while the rest are Greek school representatives. [37] President Karolos Papoulias receives 16 WW2 veteransATHENS, 21/10/2005 (ANA)President Karolos Papoulias on Thursday received 16 Russian World War Two veterans of Greek origin at the Presidential Mansion.President Papoulias said he was pleased to receive them since "they were frontrunners in a great struggle, the struggle against barbarism, Hitlerism, which ruined Europe and in which millions of Europeans died or were killed." He added that both of their homelands, Russia and Greece, "have suffered great destruction from the passing of this Nazi beast and you and all of us rose and stepped on the throat of this murderous beast. And you were the frontrunners and I understand you very well because I as well was 15 years old when I was in the mountains of my motherland to fight this barbarism, to struggle for freedom and justice and for a different society and I think that we have achieved this". President Papoulias further said he was moved and that "your chests are adorned with these samples of your valor and heroism. We are an appropriate example for our grandchildren and for our youth. We are fighters of freedom and democracy and we shall remain so. And we shall be the last to leave this trench." [38] KEDKE representatives meet FYROM counterparts in AthensATHENS, 21/10/2005 (ANA)A delegation from the Union of Municipalities and Communities from the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM), headed by the union's president Andrei Petrov, on Thursday visited the offices of the Central Union of Greek Municipalities and Communities for an exchange of views and cooperation on issues of decentralization and local government.The meeting was held in the context of the European program CARDS, which aims at supporting FYROM's government in the process of transferring authority to local government. The two sides proceeded in setting up a Permanent Cooperation Committee, comprised of local government officials, experts and technocrats. It was also agreed for a KEDKE delegation to soon visit FYROM. [39] Program for hosting children from countries of former YugoslaviaATHENS, 21/10/2005 (ANA)The Hellenic Red Cross (EES) is sponsoring, for the 12th consecutive year, a program for the hosting of children from the countries of former Yugoslavia by families in Greece during the Christmas holidays, in cooperation with the Serbian Red Cross.The program for this year's holiday season runs from December 12, 2005 to January 7, 2006. Families interested in hosting a child should contact Ms. Mary Tranga at the EES international relations department, tel: 210-3621681, 210-3615606, and 6936799008. [40] PAOK Thessaloniki loses 1-0 to Shakhtar Donetsk in UEFA Cup matchDONETSK, 21/10/2005 (ANA)PAOK Thessaloniki lost 1-0 to Shakhtar Donetsk of Ukraine in a UEFA Cup Group G match played in Donetsk on Thursday night. The only goal was scored by Bradao with a penalty in the 67th minute.PAOK's next match in the UEFA Cup will be against Stuttgart of Germany at Toumba stadium in Thessaloniki on November 24. [41] Cyprus says Turkey must show actions not wordsNICOSIA, 21/10/2005 (CNA/ANA)The Cyprus government has said that it was actions that showed policy and not statements, commenting on Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan's intention to announce his readiness for talks on the Cyprus problem.Government Spokesman Kypros Chrysostomides, invited Thursday to comment on Erdogan's intention to attend the EU informal heads of state government meeting in London, where he will announce his readiness for talks on Cyprus within the UN framework, replied, ''Turkey's policy is well known, its been stated many times with statements by Mr. Erdogan himself and his effort is to show a good diplomatic face to the EU for obvious reasons, to be rid of pressure concerning the implementation of the protocol or the recognition of the Republic of Cyprus.'' However, he added, ''these are the things which we have to point out to EU member states, that they should not consider what he (Erdogan) says as his policy.'' Furthermore, Chrysostomides said that the Cyprus government continually informs the EU and is making ''a stable effort to point out which Turkey's real policy is.'' Invited to comment on Erdogan's pledge, according to a Turkish press report that Ankara is willing to abandon all restrictions for a Cyprus settlement, the spokesman replied that what Erdogan has to abandon is the illegal occupation of the northern part of Cyprus. [42] Cyprus says de Soto did not allow UN good offices to ensueNICOSIA, 21/10/2005 (CNA/ANA)Cypriot Government Spokesman Kypros Chrysostomides said Alvaro de Soto, former UN Secretary General's special adviser on Cyprus, always had his own ideas on Cyprus and acted in a manner that did not allow the UN good offices to develop.Invited to comment on Arab League accusations against de Soto, who is the UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace process, that he is biased and supports Israel in building a security wall inside Palestinian territory to secure its own security, Chrysostomides replied, ''De Soto always had his own ideas and as far as Cyprus is concerned, he did not act in a manner that would allow the UN Secretary General's good offices to ensue, satisfying in substance the demands of the Turkish side in Lucerne, something which led to the collapse of efforts to solve the Cyprus problem.'' The Arab League blasted de Soto on Wednesday for defending Israel's right to build a security wall. An ''official Arab complaint was lodged and sent to UN Secretary General Kofi Annan and the Security Council president'' about de Soto's report, the League's Secretary General, Amr Mousa, said. [43] Cyprus government satisfied with Martens' statementsNICOSIA, 21/10/2005 (CNA/ANA)The Cyprus government has expressed satisfaction with the statements made by European People's Party President Wilfried Martens during his visit to Cyprus.Speaking Thursday during his daily briefing, Chrysostomides noted Martens' position that the EU must take a more active and positive role in efforts for a Cyprus settlement on the basis of UN resolutions and European principles. ''The negative stance towards our side has changed and we proceed towards a positive approach of the problems for the resumption of the procedure for a final settlement of the Cyprus problem on the basis of European principles,'' he noted, adding that the work being done since April 24, 2004, has borne fruits. As regards Martens' statement that Turkey has to implement the Protocol of her Customs Union with Cyprus, the spokesman noted that this is an answer to the Turkish negative stance so far. ''The presence of Mr. Martens in Cyprus has been particularly important, it really indicates the policy the EPP will follow in Europe and we will express our appreciation to Mr. Martens for these positions,'' Chrysostomides said. Replying to a question, the spokesman noted that the position of Cyprus in the EU has been remarkably improved and Cyprus has won the respect and appreciation of its EU partners and the stance regarding further efforts for a Cyprus settlement has changed a lot. He said no one ever speaks about bringing the Annan plan back, and all say that the result of the referendum must be respected, concerns must be taken into consideration and a settlement that will satisfy Cypriots must be reached. Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third. A solution plan proposed by UN Secretary General Kofi Annan was rejected by the majority of the Greek Cypriot community in April 2004, as it felt the plan did not meet its basic concerns. Chrysostomides said that the position of the EU for the implementation of the protocol by Turkey has been intensified. Responding to another question, he said that a visit of a delegation from Kyrgyzstan to Cyprus' Turkish occupied areas represents a clear illegality. [44] Prescott to hold meetings in CyprusNICOSIA, 21/10/2005 (CNA/ANA)British Deputy Prime Minister and First Secretary of State John Prescott will visit Cyprus from October 24 to 26.The visit will be held ahead of the informal European Council on the future of Europe to take place in Surrey, London, on October 27. An official statement said Prescott will be received by President of the Republic Tassos Papadopoulos. He will also meet other members of the government and will take part, along with Minister of Foreign Affairs George Iacovou, in a televised discussion on the Future of Europe. ''The governments of Cyprus and the United Kingdom look forward to a constructive visit, with the aim to strengthen bilateral relations as EU partners,'' the statement added. President Papadopoulos leaves for London on October 26 to take part in the informal European Council. [45] Austria opens embassy in CyprusNICOSIA, 21/10/2005 (CNA/ANA)The opening ceremony of the Embassy of Austria to Cyprus was held on Thursday in Nicosia.Austria's Foreign Ministry General Secretary Johannes Kyrle, who is visiting the island, attended the opening ceremony as well as foreign ambassadors in Nicosia, high-ranking government officials and political party representatives. Austria assumes the EU presidency from Britain at the end of the six-month rotating presidency in December. Kyrle also met Cypriot Minister of Foreign Affairs George Iacovou and held talks with the Ministry's Permanent Secretary Ambassador Sotos Zackheos, which covered bilateral relations, European issues, the Cyprus problem and regional issues. Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English Directory - Previous Article - Next Article |
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