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Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English, 05-11-09

Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English Directory - Previous Article - Next Article

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

November 9, 2005

CONTENTS

  • [01] Greece's fiscal adjustment progress satisfactory, Almunia says
  • [02] PM says phenomena of corruption will not continue to trap country
  • [03] Interior ministry replies to PASOK on matter of transparency
  • [04] PM to meet Armenian President on Wednesday
  • [05] Greece seeking bilateral agreements for transparency in arms purchases
  • [06] Defense minister to inaugurate three Army nursery stations, visit training centers
  • [07] Deputy FM on European Commission's 'Plan D'
  • [08] Roussopoulos on Turkey's European prospects, Greek-Turkish relations
  • [09] Immigrants a major issue, PASOK leader says
  • [10] Greek Airforce celebrates patron saint, 75th anniversary
  • [11] Former military chief issues sharp response to ex-PM Simitis' recounting of Imia crisis
  • [12] Second 'Peace and Tolerance' inter-faith conference opens in Istanbul
  • [13] U.S. State Department report strongly criticizes Turkey for worsening situation in the country regarding religious freedom
  • [14] Justice Minister meets with Turkish delegation
  • [15] Two first instance judges referred to Supreme Court Disciplinary Council
  • [16] Turkish warplanes violate Greek national air space
  • [17] Burns says 2006 will be a 'crucial year' for Kosovo
  • [18] Stylianidis details govt's goals for boosting int'l economic ties
  • [19] Salagoudis on development of regional cooperation in energy
  • [20] Government sends electricity deregulation bill to parl't
  • [21] Tourism to Greece seen up 30%-35% in 2006
  • [22] S&P affirms Greece ratings, urges additional measures
  • [23] UNICE cuts forecast for EU economy
  • [24] Thessaloniki Chamber signs cooperation accord with China's Anshan Chamber
  • [25] EU member-states complete operation 'Fake'
  • [26] Greek inner cabinet discuss maritime policy
  • [27] Greek ministers to participate in conference in New York on investments in Greece
  • [28] Gov't does not plan changing shopping hours system
  • [29] NBG sells Canadian subsidiary, buys leasing firm in Romania
  • [30] Canadian embassy announces companies in Greece chosen for Canadian Business Awards
  • [31] Greek banks eye buyouts in Turkey
  • [32] Greek banks sound out syndicated loans with Arab banks
  • [33] Greek exports up 12.7 pct in September, yr/yr
  • [34] Air traffic controllers to go on 24-hour strike on Thursday
  • [35] Greek budget revenues up 12.8 pct in October
  • [36] Foreign investors raised their positions in ASE in October
  • [37] Greek stocks resume uptrend on Tuesday
  • [38] Greek actor Alexandrakis dies
  • [39] Olympic stadium roof safe, Alternate Culture Minister says
  • [40] PM to inaugurate art exhibition next week
  • [41] Vassos Lyssarides given honorary doctorate by Athens University's Medical Faculty
  • [42] Greece not included in visa waiver program, U.S. says
  • [43] Greek ultra-marathon champ Kouros to compete at Kolac 6day race
  • [44] France says Cyprus problem in UN hands
  • [45] Cyprus to protest Turkey's refusal to allow German plane land
  • [46] Cyprus anticipates EU-Turkey partnership document
  • [47] US Senator disapproves of State Department-T/C leader meeting

  • [01] Greece's fiscal adjustment progress satisfactory, Almunia says

    BRUSSELS, 9/11/2005 (ANA)

    Greece's fiscal adjustment, through its 2005 budget, is progressing satisfactorily, EU Commissioner on Monetary Affairs Joaquin Almunia said on Tuesday.

    Speaking to reporters, after an ECOFIN council meeting in Brussels, Almunia said the Commission was awaiting more information over the 2006 budget from the Greek government. The EU Commissioner said he met with Greek Economy and Finance Minister George Alogoskoufis and underlined that an effort to cut fiscal deficits in 2006 must be made through structural measures, accounting for 0.6 percent of the country's Gross Domestic Product.

    Almunia said the EU executive's statistics agency, Eurostat, has not yet reached a decision over the compatibility of a Greek government debt securitization plan with European accounting standards and noted that a decision was expected by the end of the year. The Commissioner, however, reiterated his view in favor of structural measures to reduce deficits.

    Finmin says government's economic policy

    mix is working: The Greek government's economic policy mix is working as it has advanced structural changes that reinforce the outlook for growth, employment, and efficiency in the public sector, Finance Minister George Alogoskoufis said on Tuesday.

    "It is needed to tackle medium-term problems of competitive-ness and fiscal equilibrium that are a scourge of the Greek economy," Alogoskoufis told reporters after a meeting of European Union finance ministers in the Belgian capital.

    The minister also met the EU's commissioner for monetary affairs, Joaquin Almunia, who said Greek fiscal adjustment through the 2005 budget was proceeding satisfactorily, but more data was required on the 2006 budget.

    The government is due to provide further information by November 21 when the budget is sent to parliament. National and EU services are in close contact, Alogoskoufis reported.

    Greece has submitted a report to the Commission on its fiscal progress as part of an excessive debt process.

    The report foresees a reduction in the general government deficit to 3.6% of gross domestic product (GDP) in 2005 and 2.6% in 2006 from 6.6% in 2004.

    The adjustment for 2005-2006 versus 2004 is equivalent to four percentage points of GDP, with 3.5 points of the total attributable to structural changes of a permanent nature, the minister said.

    "On the basis of recent EU data, it is rare to achieve such a major fiscal adjustment, especially if we take into account the maintenance of high growth rates and the reduction in unemployment," he added.

    EU debt securitization decision by end-year: Alogoskoufis also reported that Eurostat, the EU's statistics agency, was expected to decide by the end of the year whether Greece's debt securitization proposal was compatible with the bloc's regulations.

    At the same time, the government had devised alternative plans should Eurostat reject the proposal, although the bloc's statistics agency should clearly specify the accounting principles it accepted for national accounts in order to avoid frequent fluctuation, the minister said.

    He also forecast that in 2006 the fiscal deficit would drop by about 1.0% of GDP, well above a 0.6% decline sought by the Commission.

    Finally, Alogoskoufis expressed concern at Greece's inflation rate, which for the fifth straight year has been much higher than in other eurozone members, and that no rises in indirect taxation would be ordered.

    [02] PM says phenomena of corruption will not continue to trap country

    ATHENS, 9/11/2005 (ANA)

    Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis, speaking at the dinner of the 16th annual conference of the Hellenic American Chamber of Commerce on Tuesday night, pointed out "explicitly and categorically" that phenomena of corruption and pathogeny in administration "that had remained untouched under the fear of political cost will not continue to trap the country in the past."

    Karamanlis added, addressing the members of the country's business world, that "these phenomena are now being handled decisively and uncompromisingly and they are already beginning to retreat."

    The prime minister also presented the government's strategy on the country's adjustment to the needs of the new economy and modern society.

    Speaking on the issue of "The hour of the Greek economy", Karamanlis presented the conjuncture's wider framework.

    "We are in the era in which we are crossing the new cycle of world history with big steps and which is characterized by big changes," the prime minister said and pointed out that in this framework our country is functioning through the European Union which "despite the difficulties it is going through and which are known to all, is continuing to be a force of reforms."

    Karamanlis further said that despite the adversities of the international conjuncture and the weaknesses "bequeathed to the state and the economy by the past" and despite reactions by "conservatism, the privileged and the expressors of stagnation", the government is following an "integrated course plan."

    Lastly, he stressed the need for strengthening the economy's extroversion through attracting foreign investments, increasing exports, strengthening shipping, expanding the tourist industry and backing the international business activities of the Greeks and added that the new era constitutes a challenge and opportunity for lofty targets.

    [03] Interior ministry replies to PASOK on matter of transparency

    ATHENS, 9/11/2005 (ANA)

    The Ministry of Internal Affairs, Public Administration and Decentralization in an announcement on Tuesday replied to the main opposition Panhellenic Socialist Movement (PASOK) on the issue of transparency and the combatting of corruption.

    "With its usual tactic, PASOK discovers in opposition those things which it did not want to do as government," the announcement said in reference to the main opposition party's "Framework of proposals for transparency in public life", which was made public on Monday.

    The interior ministry said that "the main opposition is proposing things which either have already been done or are either routed by the government."

    Regarding transparency in legislation, the announcement said that "given that the relevant law has already been made public and that the corresponding circular of the prime minister on legislative matters will be issued in the immediate coming days, this circular covers all of PASOK's 'proposals'."

    [04] PM to meet Armenian President on Wednesday

    ATHENS, 9/11/2005 (ANA)

    Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis will meet Armenian President Robert Kocharian on Wednesday, government spokesman Theodoros Roussopoulos announced.

    [05] Greece seeking bilateral agreements for transparency in arms purchases

    ATHENS, 9/11/2005 (ANA)

    Greece has approached Britain, France and Germany to propose the start of talks on bilateral agreements that seek to enhance transparency in the sensitive area of defense procurements.

    In letters to his British, French and German counterparts, Greek Defense Minister Spilios Spiliotopoulos has proposed bilateral agreements for the mutual provision of cost-free inspection services between the countries' defense ministries.

    An announcement said the initiative was a follow-up of a request to the U.S. Pentagon for a bilateral agreement that extended the existing Defense Industrial Cooperation Agreement between Greece and the U.S.

    "The existence of these bilateral agreements that are being set in motion for the first time will intercept future efforts by representatives of arms systems firms and other middlemen to sell arms systems at 'inflated' prices," a defense ministry announcement said.

    [06] Defense minister to inaugurate three Army nursery stations, visit training centers

    ATHENS, 9/11/2005 (ANA)

    National Defense Minister Spilios Spiliotopoulos, accompanied by Army General Staff chief Lieutenant-General Nikolaos Douvas, on Thursday will inaugurate three nursery stations of the Army in Alexandroupoli, Soufli and Didymotiho.

    Also planned is the construction and operation in 2006 of four more nursery stations in Orestiada, Feres, Komotini and Xanthi.

    On the occasion of his trip to the region, Spiliotopoulos will also visit three new training centers for army recruits which started operating in the prefecture on Monday. A total of 350 new army recruits which originate from the broader region of Thrace will be trained in these new centers.

    [07] Deputy FM on European Commission's 'Plan D'

    ATHENS, 9/11/2005 (ANA)

    The basic philosophy behind the European Commission's 'Plan D for Democracy, Dialogue and Debate' is to engage citizens in EU developments through meaningful dialogue, Deputy Foreign Minister Yiannis Valinakis said on Tuesday in response to journalists' questions regarding the recent informal luncheon attended by EU General Affairs ministers.

    Valinakis said that during the luncheon, the ministers had the chance to discuss the initiatives each member-state is taking towards implementing the plan.

    He reiterated Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis' assertion that Greece supports Plan D "so that, we - leaders and citizens together - can shape a new vision for Europe. We are thus studying the implementation of Plan D actions throughout the country."

    [08] Roussopoulos on Turkey's European prospects, Greek-Turkish relations

    ATHENS, 9/11/2005 (ANA)

    In response to reporters' questions on Tuesday regarding the Turkish threat of casus belli, government spokesman Theodoros Roussopoulos said that "such types of positions do not favor good neighborly relations and anyway they are not compatible with Turkey's European prospects."

    Regarding Turkey's progress report which will be approved by the European Commission on Wednesday and the reference to the need of "a comprehensive solution to the differences in the Aegean," despite the fact that the Greek government just recently stated that Greece's difference in the Aegean is "one" and concerns the continental shelf, the government spokesman reiterated that "the difference is one" and observed that the text to which the question referred also spoke of one difference.

    [09] Immigrants a major issue, PASOK leader says

    ATHENS, 9/11/2005 (ANA)

    Main opposition PASOK leader George Papandreou on Tuesday said that the role of immigrants was a major political and ideological issue but stressed that Greece was atypical of other European countries, since immigrants were not 'ghettoized'.

    Addressing his party's Parliamentary group, Papandreou said Greece had to consider the social integration of second- and third-generation immigrants in order to ensure public safety.

    He said there will probably be an initiative by PASOK, which was most likely to be a proposal for a cross-party committee on the immigration issue.

    The party's coordinator for economic issues George Floridis, meanwhile, stressed that the issue had to be addressed politically and ideologically in order to prevent reactionary views from dominating the debate, when this began.

    The draft budget for 2006 also dominated a major part of the meeting, with stinging criticism from main opposition officials who described it as "up in the air" and demanded to see all the figures sent to the EU and the commitments made by the government in Europe.

    Floridis was scathing about the government's handling of the economy, meanwhile, saying that its decisions were consistently "catastrophic", with problems in the absorption of 3rd CSF funds and a slowdown of the Public Investments program, among others.

    [10] Greek Airforce celebrates patron saint, 75th anniversary

    ATHENS, 9/11/2005 (ANA)

    The Greek Airforce on Tuesday celebrated the feast of Archangel Michael, its patron saint, in an official ceremony that also coincided with the 75th anniversary since the Greek Airforce first became the third arm of the Armed Forces.

    The ceremony - which included low overhead flights in formation by airforce planes - was held at the Dekeleia Airforce Base in Tatoi, in the presence of President of the Republic Karolos Papoulias.

    Papoulias was accompanied by Deputy Defense Minister Vassilis Mihaloliakos, while the event was attended by Parliament vice-president Yiannis Tragakis, representatives of the political parties, the leadership of the Armed Forces and Security Forces and other officials.

    [11] Former military chief issues sharp response to ex-PM Simitis' recounting of Imia crisis

    ATHENS, 9/11/2005 (ANA)

    The one-time chief of Greece's military during the Imia crisis in January 1996 on Tuesday emerged as the latest and most outspoken critic of former prime minister Costas Simitis, in the wake of a book by the latter that, among others, sharply criticizes the former, retired admiral Christos Lymberis.

    Excerpts of Simitis' book, which focuses on his eight-year term as prime minister, have been published in a handful of Athens dailies over the past few days. An official launching is set for Wednesday, with the ex-prime minister himself presenting the edition.

    In response to Simitis' caustic criticism of his handling of the Imia affair, Lymberis issued a written statement against the two-time prime minister:

    "I understand Mr. Simitis' anxiety and need to defend himself for the things that occurred and his numerous unfortunate moments, however, it smacks of political irresponsibility, especially during a period when the country is being sorely tested, for him (Simitis) to be attacking - unjustly - the armed forces for whatever responsibilities he himself had," Lymberis' statement reads.

    In focusing on one particular reference by Simitis, namely, the night-time landing of a unit of Turkish troops on one of two tiny rock islets (Imia isles) off the larger eastern Aegean island of Kalymnos during the height of the crisis, Lymberis replied that the "undetected incursion of a small band of commandos on an uninhabited islet does not determine the readiness and fighting capability of the armed forces, and does not justify the censure of a former premier against them (armed forces)."

    Moreover, in indirectly referring to a string of recent reports in the Turkish media featuring Simitis' remarks on the Imia crisis, Lymberis countered that "such an act undermines national unity, which is so necessary, and merely satisfies the adversary."

    He added that a solution of status quo ante to defuse the late January crisis -- the worst since the Turkish invasion of Cyprus in the summer of 1974 -- was proposed by Washington and Britain and accepted by Simitis "regardless of the costs".

    "He (Simitis) had at his disposal forces that he didn't use," the former armed forces general staff chief said, while adding that his refusal to voluntarily resign a week later was due to the fact that the former prime minister insisted on equating the resignation with an assumption of responsibility on the part of the military for the crisis' conclusion.

    Meanwhile, according to an ANA dispatch from Istanbul, the former fleet commander of Turkey's navy during the Imia crisis, Adm. Salim Dervisoglu, was quoted by local papers as saying the incident was even more serious than Cyprus because "these islets were something different, both sides said 'they are ours'."

    Dervisoglu, who later assumed the post of navy chief of staff, was also quoted by the daily "Ak_am Gazetesi" as saying that "only a spark could have led to war".

    Finally, he said reportedly told the paper he is happy that a conflict was avoided at the time, "because it would have meant a catastrophe for both sides".

    [12] Second 'Peace and Tolerance' inter-faith conference opens in Istanbul

    ISTANBUL, 9/11/2005 (ANA - A. Kourkoulas)

    Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I declared the start of the second "Peace and Tolerance" inter-faith conference in Istanbul on Tuesday, attended by religious leaders from all over the world.

    Among those present were Rabbi Arthur Schneier from New York, Turkey's Chief Rabbi Isac Haleva, Moslem religious leaders from the Caucausus, Azerbaijan and the Balkans and Orthodox Church leaders like Archbishop Anastasios of Albania and Alexandria Patriarch Theodoros. A message from Pope Benedict XVI was read out by Cardinal Walter Kasper, while U.S. charge d'affaires Nancy McEldowney read a message from U.S. President George Bush.

    The conference was also attended by Greek Education and Religious Affairs Minister Marietta Yiannakou, who stressed its importance in an age when dire predictions of a "clash of civilizations" were in danger of being confirmed.

    "The work that the Patriarchate is doing in collaboration with moderate Moslems, the Vatican and all other religious creeds, even with the Dalai Lama, takes on immense political importance," she said.

    The first 'Peace and Tolerance' conference was held in 1994 and was again an initiative organized by the Ecumenical Patriarchate in Istanbul. It had ended with the Bosporus Declaration that had underlined the obligation of political and religious leaders to "use all means to cultivate and promote dialogue between peoples and nationals of all religions in order to build up mutual trust, love and respect".

    [13] U.S. State Department report strongly criticizes Turkey for worsening situation in the country regarding religious freedom

    WASHINGTON, 9/11/2005 (ANA/T. Ellis)

    This year's annual report by the U.S. State Department ascertained a worsening of the situation in Turkey regarding religious freedom, with Washington strongly criticizing the government of Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan and the Turkish state in general.

    The report was presented on Tuesday by U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and Ambassador John Hanford who is head of the Office for the protection of religious freedoms.

    The report refers to the "systematic campaign against Christians," while it noted that Erdogan's government continued also last year to reject the appeals for the re-opening of the Halki Theological School. Given the stance of the Turkish state towards Ecumenical Patriarch Vartholomeos and the disputing of the ecumenical character of the Patriarchate, the report's reference to the activity of the Ecumenical Patriarchate acquires particular importance.

    [14] Justice Minister meets with Turkish delegation

    ATHENS, 9/11/2005 (ANA)

    Justice Minister Anastassios Papaligouras met with a Turkish delegation on Tuesday within the context of the two countries' cooperation regarding Ombudsman legislation.

    Specifically, Papaligouras met with Mehmet Elkatmis, Chairman of the Turkish Parliament's Human Rights Committee; Zehra Odyakmaz, President of the Legislative Reform Committee; and Kenan Ozdemir, Deputy General Manager of the Turkish Justice Ministry's Legislative Division.

    The three Turkish officials are involved in the drafting of Ombudsman legislation in their country. Turkey chose Greece as its main partner in this project.

    After the meeting, Papaligouras said that "Turkey's road to Europe passes first and foremost through the modernization of its legislative framework - especially in regards to citizens' rights. My conviction is that by helping Turkey harmonies its laws with European legislation we are essentially helping in the normalization and development of Greek-Turkish relations."

    On Wednesday, Papaligouras and the ministry's Secretary General, Panagiotis Panouris, will be meeting with UN Special Rapporteur on the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography Juan Miguel Petit.

    Turkish delegation meets Greek Ombudsman: A three-member Turkish delegation involved in the drafting of their country's Ombudsman legislation met with Greek Ombudsman George Kaminis on Tuesday.

    Mehmet Elkatmis, Chairman of the Turkish Parliament's Human Rights Committee; Zehra Odyakmaz, President of the Legislative Reform Committee; and Kenan Ozdemir, Deputy General Manager of the Turkish Justice Ministry's Legislative Division are in Greece within the context of the two countries' cooperation, since Turkey selected Greece as its main partner in this project.

    The officials said cooperation with Greece will continue in the future as well.

    The delegation noted that in the effort to establish an Ombudsman in Turkey and following a related seminar organized by Greek authorities in Turkey in December 2004, legislative improvements have been achieved.

    Finally, the Turkish officials said that their country has also adopted a series of European Union directives.

    [15] Two first instance judges referred to Supreme Court Disciplinary Council

    ATHENS, 9/11/2005 (ANA)

    Disciplinary charges filed against first instance court president Nikos Potamianos and his wife first instance court president Georgia Lambropoulou have been referred to the Supreme Court's Disciplinary Council.

    The couple of judges, when they served in Piraeus, had reportedly provided favorable treatment for Archimandrite Iakovos Yiosakis, who had been remanded in custody, particularly after his dispute with Theology professor Xenofon Papaharalambous. Lambropoulou also reportedly used to replace colleagues of hers to try cases concerning Yiosakis.

    The Supreme Court president will set the date on which the discussion will take place at the Disciplinary Council.

    Last summer, the Supreme Court plenum had not accepted a proposal for Potamianos and Lambropoulou to be dismissed from the judiciary.

    [16] Turkish warplanes violate Greek national air space

    9/11/2005 (ANA)

    Sources of the National Defense General Staff said on Tuesday that nine formations of Turkish warplanes entered the Athens Flight Information Region (FIR) without submitting flight plans (10 infringements of air traffic regulations were recorded in the Athens FIR) and in 29 cases they violated national air space in the central and southern Aegean.

    One formation flew over islets south of the island of Lesvos at an altitude of 20,000-24,000 feet.

    In all cases the 26 Turkish aircraft were recognized and intercepted by Greek air force jets, while in two cases the interception process turned into a mock dogfight. Four of the Turkish formations were armed.

    [17] Burns says 2006 will be a 'crucial year' for Kosovo

    WASHINGTON, 9/11/2005 (ANA/T. Ellis)

    U.S. Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Nicholas Burns, in testimony before the Senate's Foreign Relations Committee, said on Tuesday that "2006 will be a 'crucial year' for Kosovo in the course of which the United Nations, with the active support of the United States and the European Union but also of the whole of the 'Contact Group' will advance the procedure for the final status of the region which can be nothing else other than independence or broader autonomy". He added with emphasis that among the possible solutions is not included the creation of "Great Albania" or partition.

    Burns noted that the strategic aim of the of the U.S. is the peaceful union of all of Europe and assessed that the Balkans constitute the last part of the puzzle which remains pending, given that the national tensions have not allowed the full return of the region to normalcy. In this framework he included the need for a final solution in Kosovo, but also the modernization and more effective operation of democracy in Bosnia-Herzegovina.

    The American diplomat stated that the international community is obliged to convince the Albanians of Kosovo to commit themselves for the protection of the historic and religious monuments in the Serbian regions, something which will be implemented with the demilitarization of the region and possibly the presence of an international peacekeeping force. At the same time, Burns said, Belgrade and the Serbian minority in Kosovo must be convinced that the region can no longer remain part of Serbia.

    [18] Stylianidis details govt's goals for boosting int'l economic ties

    ATHENS, 9/11/2005 (ANA)

    Deputy Foreign Minister Evripidis Stylianidis was the latest speaker on Tuesday at this week's American-Hellenic Chamber of Commerce conference in Athens, where he detailed what he called the government's emphasis on tapping new markets for Greek products and services.

    "The prime minister's meeting in Japan over the next few days, at the head of a delegation of institutional representatives of the Greek economy, is part of our new philosophy for reaching out to new and significant markets," he said.

    Stylianidis, whose portfolio includes international economic relations, said one of the government's major goals is to make the east Mediterranean country more attractive as a base for subsidiaries of multinationals already active or planning investments in the wider Balkan region.

    Along those lines, the Greek deputy FM said Athens is also particularly interested in boosting bilateral trade and investment relations with China, India, and of course, the United States.

    [19] Salagoudis on development of regional cooperation in energy

    ATHENS, 9/11/2005 (ANA)

    Deputy Development Minister George Salagoudis, speaking on Tuesday at the conference of the Hellenic-American Chamber of Commerce, said that Greece's position in the international energy scene has been upgraded spectacularly following the signing of the binding Russia-Bulgaria-Greece political agreement for the Burgas-Alexandroupoli oil pipeline, the signing of the agreements for the Turkey-Greece-Italy natural gas pipeline and the agreement in Athens for the Southeastern Europe Regional Energy Market.

    On the Burgas-Alexandroupoli oil pipeline, the deputy development minister said:"There is a long road ahead of us. However, the wheel has been set in motion and will reach its destination."

    Salagoudis added:""The two major projects of the Burgas-Alexandroupoli oil pipeline and of the Caspia-Turkey-Greece-Italy natural gas pipeline are substantially on course, making our country an energy junction. An aim which until recently seemed unfeasible, today is closer than ever before."

    At the same time, he said, the electricity connection of the two energy systems of Greece and Turkey with the new 400 kV line is being advanced.

    [20] Government sends electricity deregulation bill to parl't

    ATHENS, 9/11/2005 (ANA)

    Development Minister Dimitris Sioufas on Tuesday sent to parliament a government bill that is the final step in a phased deregulation of the electricity market.

    "A modern framework has now been created, attractive for large-scale investments in electricity output," Sioufas said.

    "The benefits for employment and for consumers are obvious. The bill boosts competition, and, gradually, by July 2007, all consumers will be able to choose their supplier," the minister added.

    [21] Tourism to Greece seen up 30%-35% in 2006

    ATHENS, 9/11/2005 (ANA)

    Deputy Tourism Minister Anastasios Liaskos said on Tuesday that tourism to Greece was expected to rise by 30%-35% against the previous year.

    Also in 2006, revenue from tourism was seeing totalling 25% of gross domestic product, Liaskos told a business conference in Athens arranged by the Hellenic-American Chamber of Commerce.

    [22] S&P affirms Greece ratings, urges additional measures

    9/11/2005 (ANA)

    Standard & Poor's Ratings Services on Tuesday affirmed its "A" long-term and "A-1" short-term sovereign credit ratings on Greece but recommended additional measures to achieve a reduction of the country's fiscal deficit below 3.0 percent of GDP by the end of 2006.

    A report by S&P said the Greek economy continued expanding at a fast pace, fuelled by strong private consumption growth as a result of rising real wages and buoyant credit growth.

    The credit rating agency, however, stressed that strong nominal GDP growth in the past has been accompanied by lackluster efforts to implement public sector reform and by general government deficits averaging about 6.0 percent of GDP over the past four years. As a result, the task of reining in fiscal deficits remains sizeable, and the government's medium-term targets were challenging.

    S&P said there were significant slippages in the budgeted targets in the first half of 2005 and expect the fiscal deficit to remain above 3.0 percent of GDP by 2008 if no additional measures of permanent nature were taken. The agency warned that an increase in the general government debt ratio would bring the ratings on the Hellenic Republic under renewed pressure.

    [23] UNICE cuts forecast for EU economy

    9/11/2005 (ANA)

    UNICE, the European employers' union representing more than 20 million small, medium and large enterprises, on Tuesday sounded a less optimistic note on economic growth, inflation and unemployment rates in the EU-25.

    In its autumn outlook report, UNICE, downgraded its forecasts for economic growth in the Eurozone to 1.3 percent from 1.8 percent initially forecast. The employers' union also cut its predictions over 2006 economic growth to 1.8 percent from 2.1 percent, while average growth rates in the EU-25 were expected at 1.6 percent this year and 2.1 percent in 2006.

    UNICE said economic growth rates in Greece was higher compared with the European average, at 3.4 percent this year, 3.5 pct in 2006 and 3.8 pct in 2007.

    The report said Greek inflation was expected to end 2005 at 2.3 percent, rising to 2.9 percent in 2006 and easing slightly to 2.8 percent in 2007. Forecasts for the inflation rate in Eurozone were 2.2 pct and 1.8 pct in 2005 and 2006, respectively, and 2.1 percent in 2005 and 2006 in the EU-25.

    UNICE said it expected a slight fall in unemployment in Greece to 9.8 pct in 2006 and 8.9 pct in 2007, from 10.5 pct this year.

    [24] Thessaloniki Chamber signs cooperation accord with China's Anshan Chamber

    9/11/2005 (ANA)

    The Thessaloniki Chamber of Commerce and Industry (EBETH) on Tuesday signed a cooperation agreement with China Council for Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) member Anshan City Chamber.

    EBETH has already signed memoranda of cooperation with the corresponding Chambers of Beijing and Shanghai, during a recent visit by a business delegation to China.

    EBETH second vice-president Emmanuil Vlachoyiannis noted that the Thessaloniki and Anshan Chambers will seek, inter alia, to advance international trade among their members, and in that direction studies will be carried out, information will be exchanged, and trade exhibitions as well as missions to Greece and China will also be organized.

    Anshan Chamber vice-president Xia Sun Yang, who visited the EBETH at the head of a five-member delegation, outlined the prospects for cooperation between Greek and Chinese business enterprises.

    [25] EU member-states complete operation 'Fake'

    9/11/2005 (ANA)

    The European Commission is placing emphasis on combatting piracy and the fake product trade with the implementation of the "Fake" customs operation.

    According to an announcement by the European Commission's office in Athens, about 30,000 fake batteries were found at the port of Thessaloniki, Macedonia, 60,000 lamps at the port of Gioia Tauro in Italy, hundreds of thousands of packets of cigarettes of a fake brand at the port of Antwerp and many tons of fake clothes.

    These are only a few examples of major confiscations of fake products which took place in the framework of the customs operation.

    It is the first joint action by the EU's 25 member-states which was coordinated by the new permanent technical structure of the European Fraud Combatting Service (OLAF).

    The share of fake products, which is registering a stable increase, currently represents 5-9 percent of world trade, depriving producers of an amount estimated between 200 and 300 billion euros worldwide.

    [26] Greek inner cabinet discuss maritime policy

    ATHENS, 9/11/2005 (ANA)

    A Greek inner cabinet meeting, chaired by Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis, on Tuesday discussed maritime policy.

    Speaking to reporters, after the meeting, Merchant Marine Minister Manolis Kefaloyiannis, said his ministry would table a new draft bill on maritime education, aimed at upgrading the education level of merchant marine, one of the main pylons of Greek economy.

    "The shipping industry offers the maximum to national wealth," the Greek minister said.

    [27] Greek ministers to participate in conference in New York on investments in Greece

    NEW YORK, 9/11/2005 (ANA/P. Panagiotou)

    Four Greek ministers will be in New York and will participate at a conference on Friday on the theme "Greek Economy and Business Opportunities in Greece and Southeast Europe".

    It concerns the 7th annual "Capital Link Forum" which will be held in Manhattan.

    According to the organizers, the Greek delegation will comprise Economy and Finance Minister George Alogoskoufis, Labor and Social Protection Minister Panos Panayiotopoulos, Tourism Development Minister Dimitris Avramopoulos, while also expected to attend is Deputy Foreign Minister Panagiotis Skandalakis who is currently in Florida for talks with Greek-American officials.

    [28] Gov't does not plan changing shopping hours system

    ATHENS, 9/11/2005 (ANA)

    Greek Development Minister Dimitris Sioufas on Tuesday categorically reassured markets that a new legislation over shopping hours in the country would not change.

    Speaking in parliament, the Greek minister stressed that "if the government or myself wanted to open the issue, I would say it straight. A new shopping hours legislation will remain valid in the future". Sioufas said any politician has the right to self-criticism and stressed: "I say it now. We should be more bold on the issue".

    He was replying to comments by PASOK main opposition deputies, Chr. Protopapas, R. Zisi and V. Kegeroglou, who said that a new shopping hours system benefited only the big players in the market and not small- and medium-sized enterprises, workers and consumers.

    The Greek minister urged opposition parties not to come into hasty conclusions since the new legislation was introduced only two months ago.

    [29] NBG sells Canadian subsidiary, buys leasing firm in Romania

    ATHENS, 9/11/2005 (ANA)

    Athens-quoted National Bank of Greece (NBG) SA said on Tuesday that it signed an agreement for sale of a subsidiary, National Bank Of Greece (Canada), to Scotiabank.

    "The transaction, like the sale of Atlantic Bank of New York, is consistent with the National Bank of Greece Group's international strategy, which consists of withdrawing from mature markets where growth prospects are limited, at the same time retaining and expanding its presence in markets with high growth potential where it commands a competitive advantage," National's management said in a statement.

    "The decision by the management of NBG ensures in the best possible way the interests of both clients and employees of the subsidiary company, by incorporating its network within a leading credit institution in Canada. The bank's clients will have access to the full range of modern and high-quality banking products & services of NBG," the statement said.

    Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, Inc. was NBG's financial advisor in the sale.

    Scotiabank, one of the largest financial institutions in North America, has assets of $309 billion, and its share is traded on the Toronto & New York Stock Exchanges.

    Also on Tuesday, National Bank of Greece said that it had signed a contract for the acquisition of 70% of stock in Eurial Leasing of Romania, a medium sized firm that operates chiefly in the automobile market and has the highest rate Peugeot leasing rate in Romania.

    [30] Canadian embassy announces companies in Greece chosen for Canadian Business Awards

    ATHENS, 9/11/2005 (ANA)

    The Canadian embassy in Athens announced the names of companies in Greece which have been chosen to receive this year's Canadian Business Awards.

    The companies receiving awards in 2005 are Neoset, Okeanida Publications and SCF International Consulting. Canadian Ambassador to Athens Phillip Sommerville will give the awards during an event scheduled to take place on Thursday, November 10, and which will be organized in cooperation with the Greek-Canadian Chamber of Commerce.

    The Canadian embassy established the Canadian Business Awards in 1991, wishing to recognize companies in Greece and their associates in Canada which have contributed substantively and over a long period of time to an increase in sales of Canadian products or the introduction of new Canadian products in the Greek market.

    Companies active in Canada with considerable investments or exports also have the right to be candidates. The awards are given to three companies every two years for their excellent contribution to the strengthening of trade relations between Greece and Canada.

    [31] Greek banks eye buyouts in Turkey

    ATHENS, 9/11/2005 (ANA)

    Greek banks are interested in the acquisition of stakes in Turkish credit institutions, a senior sector official said.

    Turkey's Anadolu news agency quoted Takis Arapoglou, president of the Union of Greek Banks, as saying that Greek banks were closely watching the sector in the neighboring country.

    Arapoglou, also governor of Athens-quoted National Bank of Greece, was speaking on Monday after a meeting of the union and its Turkish counterpart in Istanbul.

    He also noted that foreign investors accounted for 66% of trade on the Turkish bourse against 35% for the Athens market, and the majority were institutionals.

    [32] Greek banks sound out syndicated loans with Arab banks

    ATHENS, 9/11/2005 (ANA)

    Greek banks are sounding out the outlook for syndicated loans with other European financial services groups and Arab banks, the governor of Athens-quoted AgriBank, Dimitris Miliakos, said on Tuesday.

    Also being studied are the possibility of opening branches in Arab countries, buying stakes in banks in the region that are being privatized, and forging alliances including asset management and consultancy services, Miliakos told a conference in Athens arranged by the Hellenic-American Chamber of Commerce.

    [33] Greek exports up 12.7 pct in September, yr/yr

    ATHENS, 9/11/2005 (ANA)

    The total value of import-arrivals in the country reached 3.914 billion euros in September from 4.06 billion euros in the same month last year, for a decline of 3.6 percent, the National Statistics Service said on Tuesday.

    NSS, in its provisional report on the country's trade balance, said the value of export-deliveries totalled 1.159 billion euros in September from 1.029 billion euros last year, for an increase of 12.7 percent.

    [34] Air traffic controllers to go on 24-hour strike on Thursday

    ATHENS, 9/11/2005 (ANA)

    The public will be faced with great problems with flights on Thursday due to the 24-hour strike called by air traffic controllers, who are participating in strike action announced by the Civil Servants Supreme Administrative Council (ADEDY), reacting to arrangements being promoted by the government on the social insurance issue.

    No flight will be carried out by any airline company to or from Greek airports, including local flights scheduled for Aegean islands.

    Aircraft crossing through Greek air space but not having a Greek airport as their destination will not be affected by the strike. In other words, if an aircraft takes off from an Italian airport with Egypt as its destination and crosses through Greek air space it will be served.

    Aircraft belonging to heads of state, military aircraft or those carrying patients, as well as firefighting aircraft will also be excluded.

    The two Greek airline companies, Olympic Airlines and Aegean Airlines, announced that all their aircraft will remain grounded on Thursday and no domestic or overseas flight will be carried out.

    [35] Greek budget revenues up 12.8 pct in October

    ATHENS, 9/11/2005 (ANA)

    Greek budget revenues rose 12.8 percent in October, compared with the same month last year, a Finance ministry announcement said on Tuesday.

    Tax revenues rose 13.1 percent, customs revenues were up 9.8 percent and revenues from other sources jumped 22.0 percent in October, the ministry said.

    VAT revenues rose 9.3 percent in October, compared with the same month in 2004.

    [36] Foreign investors raised their positions in ASE in October

    ATHENS, 9/11/2005 (ANA)

    Foreign investors raised their positions in the Athens Stock Exchange in October with new capital in the domestic market totalling 4.3 billion euros so far this year, official figures showed on Tuesday.

    Foreign investors' participation in the Greek capital market rose to 38.94 percent in October from 38.89 pct in September, with the participation of Greek investors easing slightly to 60.81 pct from 60.82 pct over the same period, respectively.

    Foreign investors owned a 48.09 pct share in the FTSE/ASE 20 index for blue chip and heavy traded stocks, with Greek investors' share easing to 53.69 pct in October.

    Foreign investors owned a 20.66 pct share in the FTSE/ASE MID 40 index (up from 19.97 pct), with Greek investors' share falling to 79.30 pct.

    Foreign investors owned a 21.83 percent share in the FTSE/ASE SmallCap 80 index (down from 24.36 pct in September).

    [37] Greek stocks resume uptrend on Tuesday

    ATHENS, 9/11/2005 (ANA)

    Greek stocks resumed their upward trend on Tuesday, after Monday's correction, as buyers took the upper hand again in the Athens Stock Exchange.

    The composite index rose 0.15 percent to end at 3,415.98 points, with turnover a moderate 170.4 million euros.

    Sector indices ended lower with the Holdings (1.54 pct), Publications (1.35 pct), Wholesale (0.95 pct) and Metals (0.66 pct) suffering the heaviest percentage losses of the day. The Textiles (2.54 pct), Mineral-Cement (1.54 pct), Investments (0.69 pct) and Banks (0.63 pct) scored gains.

    The FTSE/ASE 20 index for blue chip and heavy traded stocks rose 0.32 percent, the FTSE/ASE MID 40 index fell 0.21 pct and the FTSE/ASE SmallCap 80 index eased 0.05 percent.

    Broadly, decliners led advancers by 180 to 92 with another 61 issues unchanged.

    Stock Futures:

  • Most Active Contract (volume): OTE (989)

  • Total derivatives market turnover: 96.3 million euros

    Bond Market Close: Buyers outpace sellers

  • Greek benchmark 10-year bond (exp. 20.7.2015): 3.66% yield

  • German benchmark 10-year bund: 3.46%

  • Most heavily traded paper: 10-year bond, expiring 20.7.2015 (725 mln euros)

  • Day's Total Market Turnover: 2.9 bln euros

    Foreign Exchange Rates: Wednesday

    Reference buying rates per euro released

    by the European Central Bank:

    U.S. dollar 1.183

    [38] Greek actor Alexandrakis dies

    ATHENS, 9/11/2005 (ANA)

    Popular Greek film and stage actor Alekos Alexandrakis died on Tuesday at Sotiria hospital at the age of 77.

    Alexandrakis, who suffered from cancer, had been hospitalized since early October due to a respiratory infection.

    His condition worsened on Tuesday and he was put on life support.

    Born in Athens on November 27, 1928, Alexandrakis began his acting career in the theatre, but also became well known for his roles in Greek cinema in the 1950s and 1960s, including a supporting role in the internationally-acclaimed film Stella.

    He starred in Finos Films for a quarter of a century.

    Alexandrakis continued to work in respected film and stage productions throughout his life.

    President, PM., PASOK leader, ministers, SYN, express condolences over death of actor Alexandrakis : President of the Republic Karolos Papoulias, Prime Minister and Culture Minister Costas Karamanlis, main opposition Panhellenic Socialist Movement (PASOK) leader George Papandreou, Alternate Culture Minister Fani Palli-Petralia, Deputy Culture Minister Petros Tatoulis, Culture Ministry General Secretary Christos Zahopoulos and the Coalition of the Left Movements and Ecology (Synaspismos) party on Tuesday expressed their condolences over the death of popular Greek film and stage actor Alekos Alexandrakis who died earlier in the day at the age of 77.

    [39] Olympic stadium roof safe, Alternate Culture Minister says

    ATHENS, 9/11/2005 (ANA)

    Alternate Culture Minister Fani Palli-Petralia insisted that the Olympic Stadium roof is safe in comments she made on Tuesday following related press reports.

    She noted that Germanischer Lloyd, a quality-testing and certification group, clearly stated in a letter that there is no question of safety regarding the roof, a conclusion the ministry has also reached after several inspections.

    Concluding, Petralia noted that the Greek government has commissioned Germanischer Lloyd since March 30, 2004 to ensure the quality of the roof's construction.

    Report cites no stability, safety problems with Olympic Stadium's roof: The culture ministry on Tuesday released a report by a Hamburg-based engineering firm confirming the structural integrity of the ultra-modern steel-and-glass roof over the Athens Olympic Stadium, contrary to a series of articles in the local press recently claiming that the structure was experiencing minor tremors.

    "As far as we can assess the condition of the steel construction by our inspectors, there exist no stability and/or safety problems of the steel roof at present," a letter by the Germanischer Lloyd firm, addressed to Alternate Culture Minister Fani Palli-Petralia, reads.

    The firm added that it has performed several inspections and "non-destructive" tests on the steel roof between March 2004 to December 2004.

    In closing its report, the firm's letter states that "structures of this size and complexity require lifelong supervision and periodic inspections. These inspections and checks should be enforced immediately after the end of the construction and for the lifetime of the project, as we required in our reports."

    [40] PM to inaugurate art exhibition next week

    ATHENS, 9/11/2005 (ANA)

    Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis will inaugurate a retrospective exhibition of late 19th and early 20th century Greek painter Georgios Iakovidis' works next week at the National Art Gallery.

    Iakovidis (1853-1932), a noted fine arts professor of the era, was also the first director of Greece's National Art Gallery.

    Karamanlis has kept the culture ministry portfolio for himself.

    [41] Vassos Lyssarides given honorary doctorate by Athens University's Medical Faculty

    ATHENS, 9/11/2005 (ANA)

    The Athens University honored on Tuesday night, in the presence of President Karolos Papoulias, a "distinguished personality of Cyprus, the doctor, ideologist and politician Vassos Lyssarides", giving him an honorary doctorate of its Medical Faculty.

    Athens University dean George Bambiniotis said that Lyssarides is a man whose experiences make him "mobile history." He added that being a genuine ideologist with a genuine democratic spirit, Lyssarides "struggled for social justice with courageous political speech, functioning as an embankment for Turkish insensibility, while his sensitivity also led him to art which he served as a poet and a painter".

    Lyssarides expressed his gratitude for the honor, saying that "it will remind him of the pending issues that remained pending issues and the unfulfilled visions which remained unfulfilled."

    Referring to present-day social and political conditions with medical terms, he said that "in the framework of distorted globalization which is characterized by the unified action of global economic circles and the lack of political control, the global rallying of those affected negatively is the remedy."

    Speaking of Cyprus, Lyssarides said that in the national sector "pending issues are now depressing, while individual and national dignity are being crushed by the presence of a foreign occupation army, tutelage and the infringement of human rights".

    [42] Greece not included in visa waiver program, U.S. says

    ATHENS, 9/11/2005 (ANA)

    There are no immediate plans to include Greece in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program, the U.S. Embassy in Athens announced on Tuesday.

    The embassy pointed out that the list of 27 countries included in the Visa Waiver Program was not going to be increased at present.

    Travelers from countries included in the program are free to visit the U.S. without a visa and stay for a maximum of 90 days.

    [43] Greek ultra-marathon champ Kouros to compete at Kolac 6day race

    ATHENS, 9/11/2005 (ANA)

    Greek ultra-marathon superstar Yannis Kouros, recognized as the world's best Ultra runner, will compete in the 20th Cliff Young Australian 6-day race at Colac, Victoria, to take place November 20-26. Kouros holds the 6-day marathon record of 1023.2 kilometers, which he set at the Colac event 21 years ago.

    The Colac 6-day race Committee "have great pleasure in announcing that Greek Superstar, Yiannis Kouros, without doubt the best Ultra runner in the world will compete in the 20th Cliff Young Australian 6-day race at Colac, Victoria from the 20th till the 26th November 05", according to an announcement by the organizers.

    It said that Kouros, who will be traveling from Athens to compete in the event, is the holder of several world records including the 6day track record of 1023.2km (set at Colac twenty one years ago) and the 24hr track record of 303km.

    Kouros last competed at Colac in 2000 where he won with 801.6km. "This is still an incredible distance when you consider that he was injured after two days. Kouros is looking at improving this distance this time and looks like being in top form after completing the double Sparthathlon in Greece earlier this year," the announcement said.

    Kouros, who was born in 1956 in Tripolis, is well-known all over the world for his decades of mythical and unbroken world records in ultra-running.

    He currently holds 113 world records.

    Kouros is also an author, poet, composer of songs and instrumental pieces and painter, as well as being acclaimed world-wide as a visionary and supporter and promoter of peace around the globe.

    Race commentator, Phil Essam believes that with the addition of Kouros into the field, the race has the potential to be one of the best 6-day races of all times.

    Essam said that Kouros would be facing stiff competition from Claude Hardel from France, who ran 923 km in a 6-day race at Germany earlier this year, and two Japanese runners that have excellent results to their name this year: Kenji Okiyama who ran 407km in a 48hr race this year, and Muneharu Kiroda who ran over 250km in a 24hr race at Tapei earlier this year.

    "This race has the potential to be one of the best," said Essam.

    The race is being run from the 20th to the 26th of November at Memorial Square, Colac. It can be followed online at www.sixdayrace.org.au <file://www.sixdayrace.org.au/> . There are now thirty seven runners in the field with twelve different countries being represented. Spectators are encouraged to attend and cheer on the runners throughout the six days of the event. There will also be bands playing during the week and several other activities will be happening at the Square throughout the week.

    This is the 20th running of the Colac 6-day race and the second year that it has been known as the Cliff Young Australian 6-Day race, and the organizers are hoping to get a lot of runners back from the past 20 years for this year's event.

    [44] France says Cyprus problem in UN hands

    NICOSIA, 9/11/2005 (CNA/ANA)

    The spokesman for the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs has stated that the procedure to solve the Cyprus problem was in the UN's hands and that a solution should respect human rights and European Union rules.

    He added that ''it is hard to imagine a political settlement concerning Cyprus, which is a member state of the Union, not being compatible with the operating rules of the EU,'' noting that this is ''one of the aspects which had to be taken on board earlier in what is called the Annan plan and which will of course have to be taken into account if we want to reach a political settlement again to the question of Cyprus.''

    The spokesman noted that it is ''important for us to move forward on a political settlement in Cyprus,'' adding that ''this dossier is very largely in the hands of the United Nations.''

    The statement has been posted on the Ministry's website as an excerpt from the spokesman's press briefing on November 4, commenting on a meeting between the Cypriot and French Ministers of Foreign Affairs in Paris, in the context of an official visit by Cypriot President Tassos Papadopoulos.

    [45] Cyprus to protest Turkey's refusal to allow German plane land

    NICOSIA, 9/11/2005 (CNA/ANA)

    The Cyprus government will make representations within the framework of the European Union over Turkey's refusal to allow a German plane which left Paphos International Airport to fly to a Turkish airport.

    Government Spokesman Kypros Chrysostomides said the plane was carrying out a chartered flight and had submitted to Eurocontrol a flight schedule from Paphos to Smyrna airport.

    "The Turkish authorities did not object to the flight schedule but when the flight was actually going to take place they objected, did not contact our Civil Aviation but instead spoke with the Greek Civil Aviation and did not allow the flight to take place as originally scheduled", he added.

    The way in which the government of Turkey acted was in essence deceitful because in the beginning they accepted the flight schedule to put on a show to the EU authorities and when the flight was actually going to take place, they followed their usual policy, not allowing it to take place, Chrysostomides said.

    Asked if the incident will be reported to the Turkish authorities, the spokesman replied "Surely. It is being recorded and it will take place within the EU".

    Cyprus Minister of Communication Haris Thrasou expressed the conviction that Turkey will be forced to respond to its European obligations and will stop its firm policy of prohibiting the landing of aircraft that originate from Cyprus.

    He told reporters after a seminar on the opening of a maritime chamber in Cyprus that the government's position is clear and efforts are underway to stop this injustice against Cyprus.

    "We believe that with the start of accession negotiations and the signing of the protocol for Turkey's customs union with the ten new member states, it (Turkey) will gradually start implementing what it committed itself with", Thrasou added.

    Turkey, which occupies Cyprus's northern third since 1974 began accession negotiations with the EU last October. Cyprus is a full EU member state since May 2004. Turkey refuses to recognize the Republic of Cyprus.

    [46] Cyprus anticipates EU-Turkey partnership document

    NICOSIA, 9/11/2005 (CNA/ANA)

    The Cyprus government is expecting to see how the draft document on Turkey's partnership with the EU will be formulated and whether it will contain all the elements that were included in the EU counterstatement of 21st September and in the negotiating framework.

    Government Spokesman Kypros Chrysostomides said on Tuesday that the final version of the document is not ready yet.

    Answering a question, Chrysostomides replied that "what is being pursued is the repetition of all that has been said so far and because the time when Turkey will have to carry out its obligations is getting closer, it has to be stressed that it has to implement its commitments".

    [47] US Senator disapproves of State Department-T/C leader meeting

    NICOSIA, 9/11/2005 (CNA/ANA)

    Republican Senator Olympia Snowe of Maine has voiced her disapproval of a decision by the State Department to meet with Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat, expressing fears that the US "is now embarked on a different course that may irreparably damage the prospects for a peaceful reunification of Cyprus".

    "For more than 30 years, it has been a tenet of United States foreign policy not to extend de jure or de facto recognition to this self-declared government, which exists only because of the forcible occupation of the northern one-third of Cyprus by more than 43,000 Turkish troops", the Senator points out.

    She expresses disappointment over the State Department explanations that the session would not signal a change in US policy towards Cyprus, adding that "in all likelihood, meeting Mr. Talat in the State Department's Harry S. Truman Building will be used by Turkey and the rump state as evidence that the United States is moving toward independent elevation of this self-declared government and the permanent dismemberment of Cyprus".

    Concluding, she called on the State Department "to abandon this ill conceived meeting" which is "inconsistent with the US stated policy towards Cyprus and serves only to hinder efforts to resolve the division of Cyprus".


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