Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English, 06-02-16

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

CONTENTS

[01] Strategy of changes and reforms is not changing, PM tells first meeting of his new Cabinet

[02] New ministers sworn in after government reshuffle

[03] New FM Bakoyannis: Priority on Cyprus issue, Greek-Turkish relations, Balkan developments

[04] New Greek foreign minister contacts Cyprus president, counterpart

[05] New Greek foreign minister invites Cypriot counterpart to Athens

[06] Austria's Plassnik warmly welcomes Bakoyiannis as foreign minister

[07] People's sense of security the priority of new public order minister Polydoras

[08] PM, German Chancellor Angela Merkel underline excellent level of bilateral relations

[09] Visiting Israeli President Katzav's meetings with political party leaders, to visit Thessaloniki on Thursday

[10] Israeli president expresses appreciation for tolerance, lack of anti-Semitism in Greece

[11] Greek representative on Security Council comments on Kosovo situation

[12] Greek delegation meets with US officials

[13] EU environment commissioner gives press conference on anniversary of Kyoto Protocol implementation

[14] Education ministry issues announcement for university candidates

[15] Athens Journalists Union comments on phone-tapping issue

[16] Journalists Union denounces phenomenon of barring access to information at Hellenic Telecommunications Organization

[17] Procedures for election of new Athens mayor expected to begin next week

[18] Greek gov't to offer tax incentives for private insurance contracts

[19] Deputy finance minister holds talks with EU Regional Fund Commissioner Danuta Hubner

[20] Gov't: No social insurance overhaul until next elections

[21] Banker defends rejection of collective labor pact

[22] Greece contributes to Balkan Trust Fund

[23] Hellenic Stock Exchanges to publish its 2005 results on Thursday

[24] Former judge's bid to block opening of Swiss bank accounts dismissed

[25] VOA eyes elimination of Greek-language program

[26] Cyprus President Papadopoulos and UN Secretary General Annan to meet in Paris

[27] Cypriot President: we are committed to the rule of law

[28] Bosnia and Herzegovina counts on Cyprus' support to join the EU

[29] Cyprus to lift additional measures on avian influenza

[01] Strategy of changes and reforms is not changing, PM tells first meeting of his new Cabinet

ATHENS, 16/2/2006 (ANA/MPA)

The axes of the government's strategy were not changing, he said, noting that the government was following a strategy of changes and reforms in the state, the economy, education, and health.

"We are not limiting ourselves to the administration of a situation of things. Our target is to change things so that all the citizens will benefit. We are advancing changes and reforms that are not guided by tenets and ideologies but by the needs of the economy, society, and each and every citizen," the prime minister said.

He said the government was working intensively for full streamlining of the public finances so that what the country was facing and the people were undergoing today, due to the past, would never again be repeated.

On foreign policy, he said that "our policy is summed up in the triptych: stability, cooperation and development".

The government, he continued, was investing in the development of relations of trust with all of Greece's neighbors, and backed their European orientation, sought continuous improvement and full normalization of Greek-Turkish relations, and wanted more than anything a resolution of the Cyprus issue so that the last remaining walls on European territory would fall. "We want a functional and viable solution compatible with the principles on which the EU is founded," he added.

Karamanlis further said that he placed particular emphasis on economic diplomacy, and on expanding and upgrading Greece's international cooperation.

Also, he said he sought dialogue, agreement and cooperation with all the political forces and productive groups, as well as with all the social partners.

"We are following a strategy of a modern social centre," he said, noting that the government was not springing surprises on anyone, but was "listening, discussing, composing", but "we have no right to be remiss".

The fourth axis of the government's policy was a governance of responsibility, confidence and security, Karamanlis continued, stressing that the government was not identified with the state but was working systematically for a better state, at the side of the citizen. "We are in a constant, all-out, head-on collision with corruption," he stressed.

He further spoke of strengthening the institutions, the institutional shielding of the state and the upgrading of the mechanisms of checks, while at the same time expressing his support for justice as well as its functionaries, both in ridding it of the corrupt rackets and it the speedier fulfillment of its task.

The main aspiration over the coming period was continuous reinforcement of effectiveness and acceleration of the production of work.

Turning to the changes and reforms that have already been legislated and particularly to the implementation of the law on the DEKO (public utilities and organizations), the liberalization of the markets, the advancement of denationalizations, and the creation of an environment friendly to the entrepreneurship, competitiveness and extroversion of the economy.

Absolute coordination of the ministers' initiatives and actions with all the other related ministries was necessary, Karamanlis said, adding that this was key for the government. He also noted that strict timetables, which must be strictly adhered to by each ministry, were also necessary.

"You all need to introduce specific timetables in all the services and organizations operating within the framework of your authority," the premier told his ministers, and called on them not to forget the 'pact' made with the citizens, stressing that constant upgrading of all the ministries' cooperation with the prefecture and local governments was imperative.

Further, he called for constant cooperation with the MPs, stressing that the three key words were "agreement, coordination, and a collective spirit, on the road to the changes. We are proceeding, all together, in a common stride, with a uniform political word".

Karamanlis also urged his ministers and deputy ministers to maintain a lasting communication with the citizens, to 'wage the battle of arguments' in all areas of public dialogue "with political maturity, dynamism and a responsible public presence", and called for absolute dedication to the principles of transparency, and implementation of the laws and policies that ensure protection of the citizens' rights.

The prime minister further outlined the problems inherited by his government and the work that has already been accomplished, noting that the results so far inspired optimism and reinforced the government's belief "in the better that we want and can" accomplish.

In ND's two years in government, there had been weaknesses, he conceded, and also noted that some decisions taken had not been pleasant, but explained that those decisions had been imperative, because otherwise the country would have been led to insurmountable impasses, and the repercussions would have primarily affected the financially weaker.

[02] New ministers sworn in after government reshuffle

ATHENS, 16/2/2006 (ANA/MPA)

After the ceremony, the Archbishop wished the new government members strength and success in their task.

The ministers and deputy ministers were brief in their statements after the ceremony, while the new foreign minister Dora Bakoyannis -- who leaves the post of Athens Mayor following her appointment to the government -- said she had packed her briefcase to accompany the prime minister on his visit to Berlin later on Wednesday, while adding that more trips were also planned.

After the swearing-in ceremony, the new ministers went to the Maximos Mansion (government headquarters) for the traditional 'family photograph', and from there to their respective ministries for the handover ceremonies.

Among them the prime minister, who has given up the culture ministry portfolio that he took when Greece was preparing to host the Olympic Games.

Handing over the reins to former public order minister George Voulgarakis - in the presence of former alternate minister Fani Palli-Petralia and former deputy minister Petros Tatoulis - Karamanlis said his decision to take on the culture ministry aimed to show that culture was a top priority issue for the government.

He referred to the successful hosting of the Athens Olympics, relocating the ministry in Rendi and the Arts Academy founded in Liossia as achievements made during his tenure.

Voulgarakis, on his part, said he was honored to succeed Karamanlis at the ministry's helm and underlined that arts and culture were a "reference point" and a "treasure" which should become a new source of income for the country.

Earlier, Voulgarakis had welcomed new government member Byron Polydoras at his old post of public order minister.

In one of the most closely watched changes in the government's composition, outgoing foreign minister Petros Molyviatis turned over the ministry's helm to Dora Bakoyiannis, who is quitting the prestigious Athens mayorship to join the government and becoming the first woman to be given charge of the foreign ministry in Greece. In statements at the handover ceremony, Bakoyiannis stressed that the Cyprus issue would be among her top priority, along with Greek-Turkish relations and Balkan developments.

At the employment ministry, outgoing minister Panos Panayiotopoulos - who was not given another portfolio in government - expressed some bitterness to be leaving "two years of effort, toil and creative work" said the prime minister's choice "did not do justice" to what had been achieved at the specific ministry. At the same time, he stressed his continued support for the premier and welcoming the new minister Savvas Tsitouridis, saying he was happy to be handing the ministry over to an "old friend".

He also congratulated his former deputy minister Gerassimos Giakoumatos, who retains his post at the ministry and expressed sorrow at the departure of Nikos Angelopoulos, who he said knew more about the social insurance system than any other person in Greece.

Taking over, Tsitouridis addressed both Panayiotopoulos and Angelopoulos, saying the best in their political careers was yet to come.

The handover at the national defense ministry between outgoing minister Spilios Spiliotopoulos - who is also departing from the government - and new Defense Minister Evangelos Meimarakis was warm and friendly by contrast. Spiliotopoulos thanked his two deputy ministers, who will remain, for their work over the past two years and said his successor was a man "who knows how to give battle".

Meimarakis noted that he entered the ministry with "mixed feelings", both because of the grave responsibility of the ministry and because he was succeeding a very able, worthy and moral man.

At the health ministry, former minister Nikitas Kaklamanis - who is quitting the post to stand for Athens Mayor - appeared visibly moved as he said goodbye to friends and staff and welcomed new Health Minister Dimitris Avramopoulos. Presenting Avramopoulos with a pen, he expressed a wish that the new minister would use it to sign a bill for health-sector procurements that he had not had time to sign himself.

On his part, Avramopoulos praised his predecessor and said his successful course at the helm of the health ministry would help him earn the mayor's seat in Athens. He also pledged to continue Kaklamanis' policy of putting health above parties and people, while saying that health was a "national issue".

A handover ceremony also took place at the development ministry, where Development Minister Dimitris Sioufas bid farewell to former deputy minister George Salagoudis and welcomed Anastasios Nerantzis, who will replace him. Nerantzis also attended a ceremony at the transport ministry, where he handed his portfolio for the now abolished deputy transport minister's post to Transport Minister Mihalis Liapis.

At the tourism ministry, former minister Dimitris Avramopoulos - now minister of health - welcomed new Tourism Minister Fani Palli-Petralia, who was previously alternate culture minister.

In statements afterward, Avramopoulos said that he would be taking part in the World Tourism Forum that will take place on Saturday, where he would review the actions of the Greek tourism ministry during the past two years and present the new advertising spot of the National Tourism Organization that would "seal" his term as tourism development minister.

Reshuffle no fix for problem policies, opposition leaders stress: Commenting on a sweeping cabinet reshuffle the day before, main opposition Panhellenic Socialist Movement (PASOK) leader George Papandreou on Wednesday stressed that the problem lays with the government's "dead-end" policies. This was echoed by Coalition of the Left, Movements and Ecology (Synaspismos) party leader Alekos Alavanos, who said the changes were "shuffling a deck of marked cards, in the sense that the policies are given".

"The policy of the Karamanlis government remains a dead-end policy that does not solve the problems faced by the Greek people concerning high prices, unemployment and protection of their basic rights," Papandreou noted.

The Greek people would opt to condemn the government for the policy it was following at the elections, he added.

Alavanos noted that the changes to some of the ministries showed the government was shifting toward even more Atlantic and neoliberal social directions.

[03] New FM Bakoyannis: Priority on Cyprus issue, Greek-Turkish relations, Balkan developments

ATHENS, 16/2/2006 (ANA/MPA)

She was speaking during the handover ceremony in which she assumed the foreign ministry portfolio from outgoing foreign minister Petros Molyviatis, a long-standing career diplomat, who announced his retirement from public service on Tuesday following the announcement of a major government reshuffle.

During the handover ceremony, which took place after the swearing-in of the new government ministers and deputy ministers, Molyviatis congratulated Bakoyannis, "the first Greek woman foreign minister", on her appointment and expressed conviction that she would succeed in her task.

"Mrs. Bakoyannis needs no introductions. She is a strong presence in public life, with high popularity, and I am certain that she will carry on the same way in the foreign ministry, too," he said, and also outlined the achievements made during his own term in the foreign ministry.

"We gave the Cypriot people the ability to freely decide their destiny, without adverse consequences for either Cyprus or Greece. We continued to improve Greek-Turkish relations, and we rendered the Greek-Turkish matters EU-Turkish matters," Molyviatis said.

"We ensured that Skopje's European course was comprehensible only with the name FYROM and the obligation that it contributes to finding a mutually acceptable solution to the name issue. We strengthened our position in the European Union, where Greece is respected for its determination and constructive attitude," he continued.

Further, "we upgraded our bilateral relations with the US, Russia and other countries. We expanded Greece's influence in the Balkans. We did not allow, nor will allow, the falsification of our national interests. This is the heart and soul of our foreign policy," the 77-year-old retiring career diplomat said.

Molyviatis also thanked all the services of the foreign ministry for their contribution to his efforts.

Bakoyannis, in turn, said that it was a "privilege" to succeed Molyviatis "who, with his long efforts, put his mark on the country's foreign policy and earned respect".

"I believe I speak on behalf of all the Greeks, when I say a big 'thank you'. Your opinion and advice will always be valuable to me," she told Molyviatis.

The new foreign minister said that the New Democracy government's foreign policy was founded exclusively on the national interests, was consistent and had continuity, was exercised above and beyond petty partisan expediencies, and aimed at the greatest possible consensus, in cooperation with the parliament.

Regarding Greece's position on the international scene as a "trusted and credible partner, factor of peace and stability, with great potential for expanding its international role.

"Our foreign policy is exercised with the aim to, and is obliged to advance the principles of democracy and the peaceful resolution of differences," Bakoyannis said, stressing that she would exercise diplomacy with "principles, a program, realism, and creativity".

"The compass will be only the good of the people and the nation," she said, adding that she had the honor and pleasure of having the experience and abilities of the ministry personnel at her side.

She further thanked outgoing deputy foreign minister Panayotis Skandalakis - whose post is being taken over by Theodoros Kassimis - for his contribution and work.

[04] New Greek foreign minister contacts Cyprus president, counterpart

ATHENS, 16/2/2006 (ANA/MPA)

According to a foreign ministry announcement, the talks between Bakoyiannis and the two men were particularly warm and friendly and Bakoyiannis underlined the importance of constant communication and cooperation between the Greek and Cyprus governments in the joint effort to promote the Cyprus issue.

Papadopoulos and Iacovou also congratulated Bakoyiannis on her appointment and wished her good luck in the difficult tasks ahead.

Cypriot President hopes to maintain excellent relations with new FM: President of the Republic of Cyprus Tassos Papadopoulos said on Wednesday that he expects to continue the excellent relations and very good cooperation he had with former Greek foreign minister Petros Molyviatis with newly-appointed Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis.

"I don't think there is any indication for differentiation," Papadopoulos said, in response to whether he expects Greece's policy to change following the appointment of Bakoyannis to the foreign ministry.

[05] New Greek foreign minister invites Cypriot counterpart to Athens

NICOSIA, 16/2/2006 (ANA-MPA/A. Viketos)

According to a foreign ministry statement, Iacovou congratulated Bakoyannis on her appointment during a phone conversation earlier in the day and wished her luck in her new post.

During the conversation, Bakoyannis also expressed her intention to visit Cyprus soon.

[06] Austria's Plassnik warmly welcomes Bakoyiannis as foreign minister

VIENNA, 16/2/2006 (ANA-MPA/D. Dimitrakoudis)

In an enthusiastic statement, Plassnik described Bakoyianni as a "fighter" who had proved her impressive abilities as mayor of Athens during the Olympic Games, as a culture minister and as a MP and said that the appointment would be a valuable enrichment for the EU.

Plassnik had also congratulated Bakoyianni in person on the phone on Tuesday, after the appointment was announced.

In her statement on Wednesday, the Austrian minister said that she looked forward to her future cooperation with Dora Bakoyianni, saying that she would be a new ally with great experience and energy for a constructive European cooperation.

As Greece's new foreign minister, Bakoyianni is due to attend the informal EU foreign ministers' meeting that will take place in Salzburg on March 11-12, since Austria holds the EU presidency for this six-month period.

Bakoyianni had visited Salzburg about 20 days ago as an official guest of European Council President, Austrian Chancellor Wolfgang Schuessel in order to attend an international conference on the future of Europe entitled "The Sound of Europe".

[07] People's sense of security the priority of new public order minister Polydoras

ATHENS, 16/2/2006 (ANA/MPA)

Taking over the helm of the public order ministry from George Voulgarakis, who takes over the leadership of the culture ministry from prime minister Costas Karamanlis, Polydoras expressed gratitude for the prime minister's confidence in entrusting him with such a neuralgic position, adding it was an honor to succeed Vougarakis to the post.

Polydoras praised his predecessor's work, and particularly noted the successful organization of the Athens 2004 Olympic Games.

Addressing the ministry staff, Polydoras said his primary concern would be democratic lawfulness, noting that "self-deprivation is required in the great issues, and from today my family will be the personnel of the public order ministry".

Polydoras promised that his relationship with the staff would be built on understanding, shared perceptions and trust, while the two criteria for the development of those relations would be worthiness and honesty.

Quoting the 5th century Greek tragic poet Agathon, Polydoras said "you govern people, but not always".

He stressed that the people's sense of security, which was his goal, is synonymous to democracy.

A visibly moved Voulgarakis thanked the ministry staff, noting that he had never imagined that in the two years he was minister of public order he would become so attached to the people serving at the ministry.

Voulgarakis said that during his term at the ministry, he had corrected many things in himself, adding that he would make an account of his work at the end of the government's present four-year term in office "because the work of a politician is cumulative", although he expressed hope that he was leaving something "positive" behind as he left the ministry.

[08] PM, German Chancellor Angela Merkel underline excellent level of bilateral relations

BERLIN, 16/2/2006 (ANA-MPA - P. Stangos)

Merkel warmly welcomed newly-appointed Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis, who arrived at the Chancellery with a slight delay due to her meeting with her German counterpart Frank-Walter Steinmeier at the German foreign ministry earlier on.

The German chancellor determined European issues mainly as the object of talks, namely preparation for the March summit and the issue of the constitution, while the Greek prime minister said that the turning point at which the European structure has found itself is "crucial", adding that Germany and Greece have proved their active participation in handling problems and promoting a common European future.

Merkel referred to developments in the Middle East and the western Balkans, particularly in Kosovo, as well as to the bird flu issue due to cases recorded both in Greece and Germany.

On his part, Karamanlis focused on the issue of relations between Turkey and the European Union, on the Balkans and the issue of Cyprus.

Asked whether there was the possibility of Greece taking a fresh initiative on the Cyprus issue, Karamanlis said "Greek government policy, and indeed on national issues, does not change."

He further said that "we are always prepared to contribute to the finding of a just, viable and workable solution to the political problem that is continuing to exist in Cyprus", stressing that such a solution "must be in accordance with international law and UN resolutions and must be compatible with the principles and values of the European Union."

Called on to comment on Turkish proposals on the issue of Cyprus, Merkel said that the issue will be discussed at length during the working dinner later on. "What is necessary in our view is a wise solution," she said.

On the question of whether Greece intends to obstruct the European prospects of the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM), due to the problem concerning the neighboring country's name, Karamanlis referred to the satisfactory level of economic and political relations between the two countries, adding that Greece is pleased with the fact that FYROM has obtained candidate status.

"Of course, there is the pending issue concerning the name which must be handled with the finding of a mutually acceptable solution," Karamanlis stressed and pointed out that the Greek government has already proved its good intention.

Karamanlis will be leaving for Dublin on Thursday for talks with his Irish counterpart Bertie Ahern.

[09] Visiting Israeli President Katzav's meetings with political party leaders, to visit Thessaloniki on Thursday

ATHENS, 16/2/2006 (ANA/MPA)

Katzav met with Karamanlis shortly before noon on Wednesday with Karamanlis, but no statements were made to the press after the meeting.

He later met with Papandreou, with whom he discussed the Middle East issue and possible initiatives by PASOK and Socialist International aiming at peace in the troubled region.

Papandreou said after the meeting that they had also discussed the recent elections in Palestine and Hamas' electoral victory, as well as the "very difficult and sensitive" situation in Iran.

Further, "I outlined to the Israeli President our thoughts on the Balkans, the Cyprus issue, Greek-Turkish relations, and the need for (Israel's) recognition of the new Patriarch of Jerusalem," the PASOK leader added.

After her own meeting with the Israeli President, Papariga said she had told Katsav that "beyond the KKE's firm position for the creation of an independent, genuine Palestinian state -- and, of course, it would be good that it coexist with the state of Israel and that there be mutual cooperation -- we consider it incomprehensible and unacceptable, regardless of one's opinion of Hamas -- which was elected by the people of Palestine -- that a policy of economic strangulation be followed".

"We are radically opposed with the policy of the leadership of Israel," Papariga said, adding that the KKE "will do all it can for the development of solidarity between the Palestinian and the Israeli people, and so that the people of Israel will not be held accountable for the policy followed by its leadership".

Alavanos told reporters that he had outlined the position of his party and of the European Left party (the European Parliament grouping to which SYN belongs) that "Jerusalem is key to peace in the Middle East".

"We believe that both the states have the right to exist in peace and security in the borders of 1967," he said.

Alavanos stressed that the negotiations process must be continued with the new Palestinian government, and a policy of isolation of the Hamas government must not be followed, adding that "as a force against racism and ethnicism, we expressed our opposition to every act of anti-semitism".

Thessaloniki itinerary: Katsav and Greece's President Karolos Papoulias will visit Thessaloniki on Thursday.

Just before noon, the two Presidents are scheduled to pay tribute to the 50,000 Greek Jews of Thessaloniki who perished in Nazi concentration camps, during a memorial event at the Holocaust Monument, where a commemorative plaque will also be unveiled.

Following, they will be given a tour of the Museum of Jewish Culture, where Thessaloniki Mayor Vassilis Papageorgopoulos will present the Israeli President with a commemorative gift.

At 1:15 p.m., newly-sworn-in Macedonia-Thrace minister George Kalantzis will host a luncheon in honor of the two Presidents at the City Hall, after which Papoulias will return to Athens, while Katsav will tour the Vergina archaeological site, including the royal tombs and the museum.

At 6:00 p.m., Katsav will deliver an address at the Jewish Synagogue, where he will be declared an honorary member of the Israeli Community

[10] Israeli president expresses appreciation for tolerance, lack of anti-Semitism in Greece

ATHENS, 16/2/2006 (ANA/MPA)

Following his earlier and separate meetings with Greece's top political leadership, Katsav told reporters that "fighting anti-Semitism is important for us ... you cannot pass down values, human rights and morality to the next generations if at the same time you have anti-Semitic expressions in the media and on the streets."

Moreover, he cited the Jewish state's satisfaction with a decision, by Greece's Parliament a few years ago, declaring Jan. 27 as Holocaust Memorial Day.

"We must provide a historical lesson to the next generation that the Holocaust was an industrial massacre of an entire nation," he said, while again calling on international political and religious leaders to condemn anti-Semitism in all its forms.

Regarding a more-or-less bilateral issue, namely, recognition of new Orthodox Patriarch of Jerusalem Theophilus III by the Israeli government, Katsav confirmed that the issue was discussed during his talks with Greek President of the Republic Karolos Papoulias, although he deferred to ongoing litigation over the new Patriarch's election before the Israeli Supreme Court, an issue he termed as "complicated".

The Israeli president said he was confident a new Israeli government, following upcoming March elections, will solve the issue, but only after a supreme court ruling, which he emphasized will be respected by Israeli authorities.

Along those lines, he termed the Orthodox Patriarchate's presence in the Holy Land as "ancient and influential", while adding that the status quo governing the Patriarchate -- revered by the Greek Orthodox faithful -- as well as long-standing commitments and "traditional approaches" should be maintained.

Katsav also answered a bevy of questions related to the recent election victory of militant Hamas in the Palestinian territories and Israel's position vis-à-vis a prospective Hamas government.

"If there is no change in its (Hamas) policy, then reality will not allow us to negotiate," he said, citing the group's insistence on not recognizing Israel's right to exist.

Additionally, he said any peace agreement with the Palestinians will inevitably include an agreement on borders between the two states, thereby a security fence, as he called it, will be moved and shifted according to the agreement's provisions.

In terms of the ongoing international furor concerning the depiction of the Prophet Mohammed in a handful of cartoons published and reprinted in several European newspapers -- a development that caused acidic and often violent reactions in many predominately Muslim countries -- Katsav said that although he supports freedom of expression, "we should be sensitive to the feelings of groups, especially religious groups". Nevertheless, he cited his absolute condemnation of extremist and violence-mired demonstrations and protests in several countries.

Regarding Iran, where the Israeli president was, in fact, born, Katsav said a mix of totalitarianism, cooperation with international terrorists and nuclear weapons was a horrendous prospect for international and regional stability.

"Our concern is that someday a 'dirty bomb' will arrive in the hands of a terrorist," he said, in directly criticizing Tehran's uranium enrichment program.

Finally, he expressed his satisfaction that both of Greece's major parties are interested in continuing to work for closer bilateral ties, stressing that whatever political differences arise between the two governments from time to time are devoid of misunderstanding.

On his part, Israeli ambassador to Athens Ram Aviram opened the press conference by noting that the official visit of the Israeli head of state concludes several years warming relations, with balanced trade now at the 400-million-euro mark and five new bilateral agreements signed over the past year.

Israeli President's wife tours Athens: Gila Katsav, wife of visiting Israeli President Moshe Katsav, toured the Greek capital on Wednesday in the company of Natassa Karamanli, wife of the Greek Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis.

Karamanli and Katsav visited Plaka, Monastiraki, the Benaki Museum and city landmarks.

Israeli ambassador, Jewish community leader host Katsav: Israeli Ambassador to Greece Ram Aviram and Chairman of the Central Jewish Council of Greece Moses Konstantinis hosted a dinner for visiting Israeli President Moshe Katsav and his wife Gila on Wednesday evening.

President of the Republic Karolos Papoulias, ministers, members of parliament, members of the business community and others were in attendance.

[11] Greek representative on Security Council comments on Kosovo situation

NEW YORK, 16/2/2006 (ANA)

Jessen-Petersen told the Council that the pace of implementation of standards, including those on minority rights, has slowed in recent months, according to a UN press release. He also urged all parties in Kosovo to work together on decentralization.

Greece's representative on the Security Council, Amb. Adamantios Vassilakis noted that the Council has stressed, since last November, "the need for increased efforts on behalf of the Provisional Institutions for progress in standards implementation," while underlining that the pace of progress would be an important factor in determining the pace and progress of the status negotiations.

He regretted that, since then, progress had been "too slow ... The final assessment of the last months could only be that more needed to be done."

Vassilakis added that Provisional Authorities needed to do much more on decentralization, while saying that the security situation remained fragile and more needed to be done in that regard. More progress was also needed, he said, in areas of minority rights, technical dialogue, access to justice and access to basic public services.

"It was also highly regrettable that there had been a decline in the participation of Kosovo Serb leaders in the political process, and Belgrade should encourage those leaders to participate constructively in the Provisional Institutions."

As for the upcoming meeting in Vienna, which would constitute the beginning of the status negotiating process, Vassilakis reiterated that implementation of standards was an obligation of Kosovo's leaders.

"The goal of the negotiations must be a new democratic and multi-ethnic Kosovo."

Finally, he welcomed the launch of the negotiation process and stressed, as one coming from a country in the region, it would be in everyone's interest to reach a successful outcome through a negotiated and mutually agreed settlement.

[12] Greek delegation meets with US officials

WASHINGTON, 16/2/2006 (ANA-MPA/A. Ellis)

The delegation, headed by Ambassador Panagiotis Zografou, responsible for NATO affairs at the foreign ministry, met with US officials responsible for EU and NATO affairs, the Balkans, Southern Europe, the Middle East, Caucasus and Central Asia.

Greek Ambassador in Washington Alexandros Mallias hosted a dinner in the Greek delegation's honor on Tuesday evening, which was attended by US officials, including Deputy Assistant Secretary for European Affairs Matt Bryza, Cypriot Ambassador Evripidis Evriviades, analysts and members of the press.

[13] EU environment commissioner gives press conference on anniversary of Kyoto Protocol implementation

BRUSSELS, 16/2/2006 (ANA-MPA - M. Aroni)

"Climatic changes constitute a serious threat for the planet. Their keeping at acceptable levels is a priority for the European Commission," he said.

Dimas further said that the affect of climatic changes is noticeable now all over the planet, reminding that 2005 was, according to NASA, the hottest year in recent years.

He also said that the Commission's main target is the ratification and control of the national pollutant distribution programs of all EU member-states.

Lastly, Dimas said that the contribution of countries which are mostly responsible for global pollution is important for the effort to combat climatic changes.

[14] Education ministry issues announcement for university candidates

ATHENS, 16/2/2006 (ANA/MPA)

It added that candidates must be aware that the form will not include faculties of the University of Cyprus, adding that those interested must communicate directly with the University.

Lastly, graduation examinations are scheduled to begin, as was the case last year, in the second half of May and come to an end during the first 10 days in June, while examinations for special subjects will be taking place in the second half of June.

[15] Athens Journalists Union comments on phone-tapping issue

ATHENS, 16/2/2006 (ANA/MPA)

ESHEA added that "this alone is enough to worsen the feelings of disappointment of society at large, disappointment which is due, on the one hand, to the ease with which the confidentiality of communication is infringed by anyone interested in a deceitful way and, on the other, to the lack of boldness and sincerity on the part of the state and its apparatuses, which appear unwilling or unable not only to fully protect the individual and political rights of citizens, but even the country's general interests."

The announcement further said that "the fatalistic handling by the state of the illegal activity of 'Little' and 'Big Brothers' might lead big social groups to watch passively and ultimately accept contempt and infringement of their fundamental rights", adding that "this unfavorable development for democracy is fuelled by the impunity of those responsible for phone-tapping (either with actions or omissions), no matter how high they may be in the public sphere, either in or out of the country."

[16] Journalists Union denounces phenomenon of barring access to information at Hellenic Telecommunications Organization

ATHENS, 16/2/2006 (ANA/MPA)

By order of OTE's governor Panayiotis Vourloumis a news crew of the NET television channel was forbidden to obtain footage of the scheduled visit by Coalition of the Left, Movements and Ecology (Synaspismos) party leader Alekos Alavanos to the Organization's technical services, ESHEA said, adding that after this unprecedented attitude by OTE's governor Alavanos left in protest.

ESHEA's board condemned as "unacceptable and provocative this decision by OTE's governor Panayiotis Vourloumis, which is aimed at weakening communication between political and labor union forces with the working people and limiting the right of citizens to information."

[17] Procedures for election of new Athens mayor expected to begin next week

ATHENS, 16/2/2006 (ANA/MPA)

According to the municipality's regulations, the majority municipal group "Athens tomorrow" must elect a new mayor within a period of 15 days after the mayor's resignation.

This task has been undertaken by Fotini Pipili, the municipal councilor elected with the most votes. Pipili, in her capacity as caretaker mayor, will summon the 25 municipal councilors of the "Athens tomorrow" group, expected to take place next week, to elect the new mayor.

The 25 municipal councilors, from whom the new mayor will be elected, include Youth and Sport Organization President Nikos Apergis and deputy mayors Ekaterini Katrivanou, Angelos Moschonas, Christos Tentomas and Maria Tzombanaki.

[18] Greek gov't to offer tax incentives for private insurance contracts

ATHENS, 16/2/2006 (ANA/MPA)

Addressing the annual meeting of the Association of Insurance Companies of Greece, the Greek minister said the government would introduce incentives and abolish all counter-incentives from the market in an effort to promote the use of private insurance as supplement to their social insurance.

Greek citizens have not adequate health or work insurance, Alogoskoufis said and urged for an improvement of product and services offered by private insurance companies. He noted that a Supervisory Commission, recently set up, would have the role of ensuring the private insurance sector's credibility.

The Greek minister said the country's pension problem was more acute compared with other EU member-states and urged all interested parties to a dialogue while reiterating that the government would not take any decisions on the issue during its four-year term.

He stressed, however, that a dialogue on the pension issue was necessary to prevent a "time-bomb" of exploding.

[19] Deputy finance minister holds talks with EU Regional Fund Commissioner Danuta Hubner

BRUSSELS, 16/2/2006 (ANA-MPA)

"We had a good discussion on the occasion of the beginning of the new year with Mrs. Hubner. We discussed the account of the year 2005 and the Commissioner congratulated us for the efforts which, as she said, have been made in the right direction. Both sides committed themselves to continuing good cooperation for an effective management of the rest of the Third Community Support framework," Folias said after the meeting.

The deputy finance minister further said that he and Hubner also discussed "planning concerning the Fourth Community Support Framework, which is currently under way through a very wide dialogue in Greece."

Folias noted that "it was more an account and planning discussion in which the mutually-accepted view existed that indeed we did well in 2005, but we must do equally well, if not better, in the years to come."

[20] Gov't: No social insurance overhaul until next elections

ATHENS, 16/2/2006 (ANA/MPA)

"No initiative to overturn the current situation (in social insurance) will be taken until the next elections," Alogoskoufis pledged after a meeting with the new employment and social protection minister, Savvas Tsitouridis, who was appointed in a reshuffle this week.

"We will intensify our efforts for talks on social insurance to be held.....Dialogue has been encouraged among the social partners and the issue will be taken up in parliament through discussion by the (political) parties. An inter-party committee will be set up," the minister added.

The two officials also agreed to speed up talks by the government's ministerial privatization committee.

Tsitouridis reported that pending issues at his ministry were labor market reform, social insurance and employment issues.

[21] Banker defends rejection of collective labor pact

ATHENS, 16/2/2006 (ANA/MPA)

"National Bank is employing the law, and certainly not questioning the acquired rights of workers or collective labor agreements," Takis Arapoglou told parliament's economy committee.

"We respect trade unions," he added.

National and other key banks are seeking to make company-by-company pacts, no longer dealing with the national OTOE bank workers union or the bankers' trade group, the Union of Greek Banks.

The decision has brought the ire of trade unions and parties in opposition.

"According to Greek banking statutes and practice in other European states, the Union of Greek Banks is not an employers' association, neither formally nor in practice, that would possess this type of authority," Arapoglou said.

A deputy of the main opposition Panhellenic Socialist Movement, George Floridis, questioned whether the conditions of competition had changed to warrant abolition of the collective agreement.

He suggested that the bankers' move was a response to a desire for restructuring that would be eased by the absence of a national pact on terms and conditions of employment.

[22] Greece contributes to Balkan Trust Fund

WASHINGTON, 16/2/2006 (ANA-MPA/A. Ellis)

The funds are intended for the Balkan Trust Fund for Democracy Alliance, a GMF initiative, which according to the Fund, has been helping to promote democracy in Southeast Europe since 2003.

During the ceremony, Kennedy praised Greece's role in the Balkans and thanked the Greek government for its financial support and for the support of the Greek foreign ministry.

On his part, Mallias talked about Greece's consistent policy in helping to stabilize the region and in helping Balkan countries join Euro-Atlantic organizations.

In November 2005, the US Agency for International Development (USAID) awarded the Greek foreign ministry's Hellenic Aid agency for its participation in the specific program.

[23] Hellenic Stock Exchanges to publish its 2005 results on Thursday

ATHENS, 16/2/2006 (ANA/MPA)

A regular meeting of the Athens Stock Exchange's board approved the listing of 44,450,416 new common nominal shares issued by Epilektos Textiles AEBE. Trading will begin on February 28.

The board meeting also approved the listing of 33,635,790 new common anonymous shares issued by Plias ABEE, following a reverse split of the share. Trading will begin on February 28.

Athens Bourse Close: Stocks decline: The Athens share index closed at 4,057.40 points, showing a decline of 0.23%. Turnover was 307.2 million euros.

The FTSE/ASE-20 index for high capitalization shares ended 0.09% down; the FTSE/ASE-40 for medium cap stocks closed 0.46% lower; and the FTSE/ASE-80 for small cap shares finished 2.49% down.

Of stocks traded, declines led advances at 241 to 51 with 30 remaining unchanged.

The stocks with the highest turnover were OPAP, National Bank of Greece, OTE, Eurobank, and Piraeus Bank.

Derivatives Market Close: Intracom top in stock futures trade

Stock Futures: