Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English, 06-07-14

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

CONTENTS

[01] Greece calls on Israel, Lebanon to show self-restraint, responsibility

[02] FM Bakoyannis reviews Mideast situation with State Department's Burns and Chinese FM

[03] Deputy FM on Mideast situation; Turkey's EU obligations

[04] Middle East crisis 'alarming and escalating very dangerously', PASOK leader says

[05] KKE leader Aleka Papariga comments on Middle East developments

[06] SYN leader condemns Israeli military action

[07] Israeli embassy briefing comes hours after latest Mideast crisis worsens

[08] Deputy FM Theodoros Kasimis consults Olympic Airlines on flights to Amman

[09] PM to meet Iranian foreign minister on Friday

[10] Koumoutsakos on Cyprus and Turkey

[11] Government slams PASOK for 'distorting truth' about Internet use

[12] ND lead over PASOK widens, VPRC poll shows

[13] Ports prepared for summer peak in ferry traffic, PM told

[14] Government stresses projected rise in tourist arrivals, comments on problems with ferries

[15] Greece and Bulgaria to jointly train men from Iraqi security forces

[16] PASOK leader discusses sector problems with central bank chief

[17] Coalition party leader meets Employment minister

[18] FinMin satisfied with course of economy

[19] Employment minister announces building of 2,500 new workers homes

[20] Greece's role as energy hub in SE Europe

[21] Sioufas conveys PM's wishes to Turkish counterpart on Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan oil pipeline operation

[22] Greek-Bulgarian trade rose in Jan-May

[23] The Evros Triangle free transactions' zone is under construction

[24] Stylianidis discusses cooperation in shipping, trade during visit to Brasil

[25] Gov't calls for closer trade, business cooperation with Japan

[26] National Bank announces agreement for purchase of AEPEY shares

[27] Carrefour-Marinopoulos to manage chain's penetration of Bulgarian market

[28] Greek low salary earners among best paid low salary earners in Europe

[29] Plans for a Theology School in Havana, Cuba

[30] European educational program on Renewable Energy Sources

[31] Minister of state addresses conference on 'Television for all'

[32] Man arrested on charge of espionage

[33] Police find getaway van - Manhunt for armed robbers' underway

[34] in Athens

[35] Deputy sports minister replies to criticism for mismanagement at OPAP football pools organization

[36] Cyprus sticks to its proposal regarding return of Varosha

[37] Cypriot Spokesman: Bryza will be fully briefed

[38] Cypriot House condemns Israeli attacks

[39] Cyprus offers help to Cypriots and other citizens, fleeing Lebanon

[40] OLAF: Cyprus an important partner in fight against smuggling

[01] Greece calls on Israel, Lebanon to show self-restraint, responsibility

Athens 14/7/2006 (ANA)

The call came in almost mirror statements by foreign minister spokesman George Koumoutsakos and alternate government spokesman Evangelos Antonaros, in reply to questions during separate press briefings.

Foreign ministry spokesman: Foreign ministry spokesman George Koumoutsakos on Thursday spoke of "dramatic developments" and a "worsening of the situation" on the Lebanon-Israeli border, replying to a press question concerning Israel's bombing of targets in Lebanon on Wednesday.

Replying to questions at a regular press briefing, Koumoutsakos stressed the danger of a generalized conflagration in the Middle East, and underlined Athens' "grave concern"

He called on the Hezbollah to release the two Israeli soldiers it has seized, and on Israel to avoid "excessive, disproportional and purposeless" use of violence.

Koumoutsakos called on all sides to display "cool-headedness, self-restraint and responsibility".

Greece, the spokesman said, was already participating in the ongoing deliberations at the UN Security Council (on which it holds a non-permanent seat) and the European Union, but added that, for the time being, it appeared that the EU members were somewhat divided on their assessments.

Koumoutsakos added that the Greek foreign ministry agencies were on stand-by, adding that an exit route via Syria for all foreign nations in Lebanon who wished to leave the country remained open.

An as yet undetermined number of Greek business executives and tourists are currently in Lebanon.

Government spokesman: In a separate press briefing, alternate government spokesman Evangelos Antonaros also stressed that the "dramatic developments and worsening of the situation on the Israel-Lebanon border" entailed the danger of a "wider escalation" and "more ordeals".

"The uncontrollable situation that is tending to prevail, if not immediately contained, could lead to a more general conflagration in the region of the Middle East," Antonaros said, in reply to a question on Greece's position concerning the developments in the Middle East.

"Greece expresses its grave concern and strong worry," Antonaros said, stressing that "it is absolutely necessary, in order to avert the worst, for Hezbollah to immediately release the captured Israeli soldiers".

At the same time, he continued, Greece calls on the government of Israel "to refrain from the use of excessive and purposeless violence, which cannot comprise a solution to the problem", and stressed the need for "cool-headedness, self-restraint and responsibility" to be displayed.

[02] FM Bakoyannis reviews Mideast situation with State Department's Burns and Chinese FM

Athens 14/7/2006 (ANA)

The press release also said that Deputy Foreign Minister Yiannis Valinakis had on his part contacted on Monday European Union foreign policy chief Javier Solana with whom he examined latest Middle East developments and Iran's nuclear program.

Foreign ministry on standby over Middle East crisis, spokesman says: The foreign ministry has been placed on standby by order of Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis, both to track the situation in the Middle East and be ready to protect the safety of Greeks in Lebanon if required, spokesman George Koumoutsakos said on Thursday. He also reiterated that the situation in Lebanon was extremely worrying following the capture of two Israeli soldiers by Hezbollah and the "disproportionate, dangerous reaction of the Israeli army".

According to Koumoutsakos, there were currently 2,500 Greeks living in Lebanon that were listed in the consulate registers.

The spokesman stressed that the foreign ministry was in constant communication with its charge d'affaires at the Beirut Embassy, who was taking the necessary action, and with its other embassies in nearby countries.

So far, there had been no report of a Greek citizen injured in Lebanon and no requests for repatriation had been lodged, he said.

The spokesman said that information will be released depending on developments.

[03] Deputy FM on Mideast situation; Turkey's EU obligations

Athens 14/7/2006 (ANA)

In briefing members of a Parliament committee over priorities of the new Finnish EU presidency, Valinakis said it was absolutely imperative for the militant Shiite militia 'Hezbollah' to release two Israeli soldiers it is holding, while on the other hand, he called on the Israeli government to avoid "excessive force" and to help in defusing the ongoing crisis by showing self-restraint.

"Calm-headedness and self-restraint is necessary by all sides. Neither military operations, nor abductions will lead the region to peace," the deputy FM said.

He also noted that the Greek government is in constant contact with both the European Union and the UN Security Council to deal with the situation and to get the 'road map' peace process implemented.

Turkey: Regarding an unrelated development, and specifically, Turkey's EU accession course, Valinakis referred to an "increased debate within the EU over whether or not Turkey will, in the end, meet its obligations".

"A huge effort has been made by the Greek government over the past two and a half years to codify Turkey's obligations, which have been recorded in texts, with specific timetables," he noted, adding:

"We are closely following the issues related to direct trade. There is a serious proposal on the table by the Republic of Cyprus, which we also support, while we hope that the Finnish EU presidency will help in disentangling the situation in the best possible manner," he said in reference to Turkey's continuing refusal to open its ports and airports to ships and planes from EU member-state Cyprus.

"Turkey is attempting to combine the issue of the so-called lifting of Turkish Cypriots' (economic and political) isolation, but it persists in ignoring the fact that it (Turkey) cannot demand concessions in order to merely fulfill its obligations," he added.

[04] Middle East crisis 'alarming and escalating very dangerously', PASOK leader says

Athens 14/7/2006 (ANA)

"The crisis in the Middle East is alarming and it is escalating very dangerously. Military clashes may result in the generalization of the conflict all over the region with unforeseen consequences. I condemn the attacks of Israel in southern Lebanon and I call for the release of the soldiers who are presently being held hostage as well," Papandreou said after meeting the International Women's Committee for Peace in the Middle East, which will hold a urgent meeting in Athens, and in which, among others, women from Palestine and Israel are participating.

"The Socialist International believes that instead of force, reason must prevail and instead of conflict, dialogue," he added.

Lastly, Papandreou said that the Socialist International will continue initiatives to convey the message to the international community that it also has great responsibilities not to merely sit back and watch but to take initiatives in the direction of a ceasefire and of peace.

PASOK says concerned over 'cycle of bloodshed' in Middle East: Main opposition PASOK party coordinator for foreign policy, security and defense Christos Papoutsis on Thursday said that "we are all concerned" over the continuation of the "cycle of bloodshed" in the Middle East.

"The cycle of bloodshed in the Middle East is continuing and we are all concerned," Papoutsis said, but added that "the only one who appears not to be concerned is the government of Mr. (prime minister Costas) Karamanlis, which remains apathetic".

Papoutsis said that his party "once again calls on the Greek government to utilize the country's position in the UN (as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council) and call for the immediate convening of the Security Council so that new international initiatives may be undertaken for peace in the region (of the Middle East), for a process that will guarantee peace and security but also the development of all the people's of the region".

[05] KKE leader Aleka Papariga comments on Middle East developments

Athens 14/7/2006 (ANA)

"Bush has spoken today. The cream of the criminals of imperialism have spoken today. We are expecting the Greek government and PASOK to state their position and to exercise pressure on Israel to stop the murderous raid, both in Palestine and in Lebanon and so that it will not develop into an attack by Israel against the people of Syria as well. This must be their position. If they do not do this, we believe that the Greek people must draw conclusions and give them lessons," she said.

Papariga was speaking after a meeting with a delegation of employees at the Emporiki Bank.

She also said that, apart from the view we have of the role of the banking system in the capitalist system, "above all we place the interests of working people who have increased their productivity and their contribution has increased in all the sectors of the economy and today they are losing what they have contributed."

[06] SYN leader condemns Israeli military action

Athens 14/7/2006 (ANA)

"The Israeli government's policy has unfortunately exceeded all limits," Alavanos said.

"There is a threat for a general conflagration in the Middel East" he added, calling on the Greek government to take initiatives both on a European Union and a UN Security Council level "in order to immediately put an end to these aggressive and dangerous, for all of us, actions by the Israeli government."

[07] Israeli embassy briefing comes hours after latest Mideast crisis worsens

Athens 14/7/2006 (ANA)

In meeting with local reporters, Israeli ambassador Ram Aviram cited four conditions he said would defuse the present crisis and allow the overall peace process to proceed, namely, a return of the soldiers (three in total); control of the Lebanese side of the border by the Lebanese army; Hezbollah's disarming and a "tranquil" Gaza.

"Hezbollah is part of the Lebanese government; this situation is not acceptable ... we have all the right in the world, including with the UN's laws, that gives a state the right to defend itself," the envoy said.

In response to criticism, in many western capitals, among others, over a "disproportionate" response by the Israeli military vis-à-vis the taking of the three soldiers in separate attacks -- one just outside the Gaza Strip and two soldiers yesterday within Israeli proper but very close to the Lebanese border -- Aviram said it is very difficult to decide what was appropriate and what is not. He noted, however, that the bombing of bridges and the airport runways in Lebanon, for instance, aimed to cut off Hezbollah's supply lines.

Regarding the hardships levied on the civilian population and civilian Palestinian deaths, both in Gaza and southern Lebanon, the veteran diplomat referred to a very "heavy burden" facing his government and dilemmas on what to do with militant Hamas leaders, who as he said, actively seek cover amongst civilians.

"Hamas is using civilians to hide behind, and they must bear the responsibility," he said, while responding that Israel does not want to cause starvation or any lose of life in Gaza when queried over punitive measures such as cutting off water and electricity to the densely populated sliver of land straddling the Mediterranean coast between Israel and Egypt.

In terms of Gaza and the Hamas-led government, Aviram charged that nearly 600 rockets have been fired into Israel over the past six months by militants, long before the Israeli corporal was abducted.

Finally, in touching on a point falling squarely within the realm of semantics, Aviram backed use of the term "abducted" and "kidnapped" for the missing soldiers -- instead of "captured" -- saying all three were confronted within Israeli territory by militants.

[08] Deputy FM Theodoros Kasimis consults Olympic Airlines on flights to Amman

Athens 14/7/2006 (ANA)

The international airport of the capital of Lebanon, Beirut, is closed following its bombing by the military forces of Israel on Thursday.

[09] PM to meet Iranian foreign minister on Friday

Athens 14/7/2006 (ANA)

Later the same day, the prime minister will be traveling to the Ionian island of Lefkas in order to address the opening of a festival organized by ruling New Democracy's youth group ONNED.

Karamanlis will be on the island from Friday to Saturday, during which time he will visit the Museum of Byzantine Art and Religious Relics at the Fanoromeni Monastery and hold talks with the Lefkas Prefect on Saturday.

The premier will also inspect works carried out to repair roads damaged by landslides caused by earthquakes in the Aghios Nikitas area.

[10] Koumoutsakos on Cyprus and Turkey

Athens 14/7/2006 (ANA)

Koumoutsakos pointed out that there is total convergence of views on the desired strategic target and that cooperation and communication between Athens and Nicosia is continuous and in depth as proven by the recent visit of Cyprus Republic President Tassos Papadopoulos to Athens.

Responding to a question on the large percentage of the Greek people opposed to Turkey's EU accession based on the latest Eurobarometer report, Koumoutsakos stated that the public opinion views are always an element of the whole political environment, adding that the policy drawn up by the Greek government has the support of the main opposition party.

The foreign ministry spokesman also stressed that Turkey's EU accession course will be long and changes will take place, like in the case of all the states that became members of the EU, and the public opinion reaction at the end of the process cannot be forejudged.

Koumoutsakos also announced that US deputy assistant secretary of state Matthew Bryza, responsible for European and Eurasian Affairs will be in Athens on Friday to meet with Deputy Foreign Minister Yiannis Valinakis. Their agenda will include the Cyprus issue, Euro-Turkish relations and energy issues.

[11] Government slams PASOK for 'distorting truth' about Internet use

Athens 14/7/2006 (ANA)

Antonaros underlined that the government's action to increase the use of faster Internet connections had been approved by the European Commission as "the most important plan for broadband ever undertaken by a member-state", and that it was based on the government's revision of the Society of Information program in June 2004.

"The project in question was designed openly in collaboration with all the bodies involved and put to broad consultation with the market for more than four months in 2006," he said.

According to Antonaros, the government's project could in no way be compared with anything theoretically prepared under previous PASOK governments, while noting that the "skewed planning" of the original Society of Information program did not include any actions to increase demand for faster Internet connections among the public.

The spokesman continued to suggest that the PASOK projects that Athanassakis had referred to on Wednesday did not, in fact, exist.

In response to other questions, meanwhile, Antonaros said that the Society of Information program had absorbed just 12 per cent of public funds when the government took over in March 2004, in the mid-point of the 2000-2008 3rd CSF program period and after 50 weeks of implementation.

He said the rate of the programme's development had accelerated impressively in the last 27 months and that this was best reflected in the completion of planning and the inclusion of projects in the program that cover 116 percent of its budget.

The operational program Society of Information was now complete in terms of planning, while the risk of losing funds during the years 2004-2005 had been avoided through the efforts of the Special Secretariat for the Society of Information, he added.

Antonaros was replying to Athanassakis' claim on Wednesday that the plan approved by the Commission was the same as that incorporated into the Society of Information program under PASOK and that the government was moving too slowly to complete the projects involved and absorb the program funds.

Athanassakis was responding to the government's announcement that it was trying to trigger a 'digital leap' in Greece so that at least 7 percent of the population will be using fast Internet access by 2008.

[12] ND lead over PASOK widens, VPRC poll shows

Athens 14/7/2006 (ANA)

According to the poll, if general elections were to be held today, New Democracy would be the winner with a 4-percentage-point lead over PASOK (ND 42 percent, PASOK 38 percent).

Also, according to the poll, the Communist Party of Greece (KKE) has the support of 8.5 percent of the respondents, Coalition of the Left (Synaspismos) 4.5 percent, and out-of-Parliament Popular Orthodox Rally (LAOS) 4.5 percent.

New Democracy president and Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis is regarded as best-suited for the premier's office by 45 percent of the questionnaire respondents, compared to 22 percent who prefer PASOK leader George Papandreou.

The responsibility for the bad state of the economy belongs to ND according to 16 percent of the respondents, while 37 percent believe that responsibility lies with PASOK.

Finally, 40 percent believe that the responsibility for the economy belongs to both major political parties in Greece and express disappointment.

[13] Ports prepared for summer peak in ferry traffic, PM told

Athens 14/7/2006 (ANA)

During the past few months, particularly after the Easter Holidays, a total of 2 million people have used coastal shipping for their transportation adding that an additional 6 million will use sea transportation in the following months.

The situation has improved, stated Kefalogiannis, and a visit to the Port of Piraeus can attest the fact.

He said that in the past two months passenger ferries have served a total of 7,000 routes from Attica ports while there is provision for ferries with mechanical problems to be immediately replaced to avoid passenger discomfort.

[14] Government stresses projected rise in tourist arrivals, comments on problems with ferries

Athens 14/7/2006 (ANA)

"We are certain that we will be able to respond efficiently and adequately to the increased needs," Antonaros added.

He also noted that this was an obligation for all Greeks, given that tourism was the most dynamic sector of the Greek economy, producing development and prosperity for the country and its citizens.

"Strong tourism means a strong economy, means a modern Greece. It is, therefore, vital to follow a new approach to tourist matters, that will meet the demands of the competition. At the centre of our attention is providing good-quality services, avoidance of price-gouging and high prices but also the prompt and thorough preparation of infrastructure in all tourist destinations," he said.

Asked to comment on problems with ferry services that have arisen, Antonaros quoted figures supplied by the merchant marine ministry, according to which some 7,000 ferry trips had been carried out in the past two months from the coast of Attica, transporting some two million passengers in safety and observing timetables.

"There are, of course, isolated incidents but these are dealt with by the merchant marine ministry and the coast guard, as is proved by the fact that no passenger and no vehicle has been left behind. By the end of the summer, it is expected that another six million passengers, approximately, will [use ferries]," he said.

Papandreou meets with SETE leadership

Main opposition PASOK leader George Papandreou on Thurs-day met with the leadership of the Federation of Greek Tourism Enterprises (SETE), following an initiative by the former.

According to SETE president Stavros Andreadis afterwards, the group gave Papandreou a copy of a latest study regarding the Greek tourism sector's competitiveness, while both sides exchanged views regarding the crucial sector.

Meeting with Union of Coastal Shipping Businessmen: Addressing the Union of Coastal Shipping businessmen, a delegation of which met with him on Thursday, main opposition PASOK party leader George Papandreou said that "nobody trusts the government and the merchant marine ministry."

PASOK spokesman Nikos Athanasakis said in a statement that Papandreou, although recognizing that coastal shipping businessmen are facing problems, stressed that whatever difficulties "do not justify illicit practices, exorbitant fare increases, inconvenience for passengers, the continuous appearance of breakdowns in ships and exhausting working conditions for seamen."

According to Athanasakis, Papandreou strongly criticized the government because "it has not taken necessary steps to utilize the European institutional framework, concluding multi-year public service contracts on limited-travel lines, for the attraction of new ships, for the distorted deregulation of fares in an oligopoly market."

Papandreou told coastal shipping businessmen that the responsibilities of the government are great for the problems that passengers traveling to the islands are facing on a daily basis.

Papandreou also met with the board of the Union of Greek Shipownrs.

[15] Greece and Bulgaria to jointly train men from Iraqi security forces

SOFIA 14/7/2006 (ANA-MPA - B. Borisov)

This was provided for under a trilateral agreement approved by the governments of the three countries in the framework of their obligations to NATO, while there will not be any financial burden on Iraq since Greece will undertaken the transport costs and Bulgaria the cost of training, the announcement said.

[16] PASOK leader discusses sector problems with central bank chief

Athens 14/7/2006 (ANA)

During the meeting, which was also attended by PASOK officer for economic affairs Vasso Papandreou, the main opposition party stressed that it endorsed the independence of the Bank of Greece and its role regarding the depiction of the true state of the economy.

PASOK was also in favor of strengthening the central bank's supervisory role, given the problems that existed with respect to competition among the commercial banks, the excessive borrowing by households, the big difference between deposit and loan interest rates, and the commissions imposed on transactions.

[17] Coalition party leader meets Employment minister

Athens 14/7/2006 (ANA)

Outlining their talks, Tsitouridis said that he had pointed out that in matters concerning labor relations and the social insurance system, "the government proceeds to discuss these with the social partners as analytically and carefully documented as is possible," and would come back in the Autumn after these consultations were complete with "specific initiatives in Parliament to discuss with the political forces in the country".

Alavanos said their talks had also cover the staff shortages at the Social Insurances Foundation (IKA), while SYN had also made a demand for a substantial increase in unemployment benefits and OAED family benefits.

[18] FinMin satisfied with course of economy

Athens 14/7/2006 (ANA)

Alogoskoufis briefed the prime minister on the ECOFIN and Eurogroup meetings held during the past week and on the course of the economy in the first half of the year.

The development of the economy, growth and all indexes is satisfactory including employment rates and budget, stated Alogoskoufis after the meeting.

The budget development in the area of spending and revenues was very good during the first half of 2006, better than anticipated, stated Alogoskoufis adding that the budget issue is not over yet and efforts need to continue to control spending and improve revenues to have the best possible results.

Alogoskoufis stated that all issues concerning public utilities (DEKO) will be discussed in the Inter-ministerial Committee meeting next week. He said that there is no issue of public utilities' rate hikes, stressing that the DEKO operational programs are the ones that need to be implemented in order to lift the economic burden off the shoulders of the Greek people.

[19] Employment minister announces building of 2,500 new workers homes

Athens 14/7/2006 (ANA)

The minister was speaking during his visit to workers homes in the region of Neos Dromos that are the oldest in Patra and were the first stop in his two-day visit.

[20] Greece's role as energy hub in SE Europe

Washington 14/7/2006 (ANA-MPA/T. Ellis)

Addressing the event, Greece's ambassador to the US Alexandros Mallias highlighted the extroversion of the Greek economy, the Greek investments in the Balkans, which are estimated at 10 billion dollars, the strategic role played by Greek merchant shipping in global fuel transport, the need for diversification of energy sources, and the importance of the SE Europe Energy Community pact that was signed in Athens last October and could prospectively absorb 25 billion dollars in energy investments over the next 15 years.

The speakers were introduced by McFarlane and Gvosdev, who noted that the global energy developments would dominate talks at the upcoming G-8 Group summit in St. Petersburg (July 15-17).

Mallias also stressed that energy security in the Balkans will be cemented with the accession of all the Balkan states to the Euro-Atlantic institutions -- the EU and NATO -- and spoke in detail on the Turkey-Greece-Italy natural gas pipeline and the Burgas-Alexandroupoli oil pipeline that are under construction, which he said will alter the energy landscape in SE Europe, rendering Greece an energy hub in the region.

Replying to questions from the floor, Mallias outlined Greece's strategy in favor of EU enlargement to include Turkey and the Western Balkans, conditional on fulfillment of the terms and conditions set out by the EU, as well as Greece's positions on finding a solution for the future status of Kosovo, which he said should contribute to stability in the Balkans.

The audience comprised members of the various research foundations based in Washington, and journalists.

[21] Sioufas conveys PM's wishes to Turkish counterpart on Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan oil pipeline operation

ISTANBUL 14/7/2006 (ANA-MPA/A.Kourkoulas)

Sioufas, who represented Greece at the event, had a meeting earlier Thursday with Erdogan. Present at the meeting was Turkish Energy Minister Hilmi Mehmet Guler. Edogan requested to be informed on the progress made in building a natural gas pipeline linking Turkey, Greece and Italy which is expected to start operating in early 2007.

A high-voltage electricity network also linking Turkey and Greece is expected to operate in mid 2008.

On the sidelines of the event, Sioufas also held talks with EU Energy Commissioner Andris Piebalgs and Italian Economic Development Minister Pierluigi Bersani focusing on Greece's international energy connections destined to change the energy and geopolitical landscape of the southeastern Meditarranean.

Sioufas also met with Albanian Finance and Energy Minister Genc Ruli, while on Wednesday he met with Saoudi Arabian Oil Minister Ali Ibrahim Naimi.

[22] Greek-Bulgarian trade rose in Jan-May

Athens 14/7/2006 (ANA)

Bilateral trade showed a deficit for Greece in the five-month period, according to Bulgarian statistics, although Greece's National Statistics Service said bilateral trade balance showed a surplus of around 118 million euros for Greece.

Only Italy and Germany recorded higher exports to Bulgaria, while the country reported balanced trade transactions with other Balkan countries (Albania, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Croatia, Romania, Serbia, FYROM).

[23] The Evros Triangle free transactions' zone is under construction

Athens 14/7/2006 (ANA)

The construction of infrastructure is set to begin after August 20 when the urban planning projects will be completed based on the existing timetable. "Lemna Internasional" will be responsible for the construction of the first phase of the project with an estimated budget of 6 million euros, while the overall cost of the project is set at 12 million euros.

The free zone purpose is to facilitate regional development by ending the region's isolation, create new jobs --particularly for highly specialized personnel-- and increase the foreign currency inflow benefiting both the local and the national economy.

[24] Stylianidis discusses cooperation in shipping, trade during visit to Brasil

BRASILIA 14/7/2006 (ANA-MPA N. Melissova)

Stylianidis is visiting Brasilia as part of a tour of Latin American countries that also included a stop in Argentina's Buenos Aires. On Friday, the minister is also scheduled to attend the opening session of the Ecological Symposium sponsored by Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I in Manaus, on the shores of the Amazon River, which is being funded by the Greek foreign ministry organization Hellenic Aid.

The Symposium, which will draw internationally renowned scientists, politicians and journalists will be officially opened by the Patriarch, while Stylianidis will represent the Greek government.

In talks on Thursday with Brazilian deputy foreign minister Samuel Pinheiro Guimaraes and Brazilian Development Minister Luiz Fernando Furlan, the Greek minister said his visit fulfilled the promise given by Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis in Vienna to cement ties with Latin American countries, noting that Greek economic diplomacy in the area will officially begin half-way into 2007.

The two sides made arrangements for a Greece-Brazil mixed ministerial meeting to pinpoint areas of mutual interest for cooperation, to be followed by a business conference in which "market forces will take over after the state has prepared the way".

Stylianidis conveyed Greece's interest in the use of the Greek commercial fleet for the transportation of Brazilian and Argentinian exports, in the purchase of ports and shipyards and mining concerns.

Regarding alternative energy sources, the two delegations agreed on an exchange of knowhow, since Greece is ahead in solar technology while Latin American countries have made greater strides in bio-fuels, while they also discussed the prospects of oil purchases from Brazil that is now starting to export oil

With Argentina, which is a producer of oil and natural gas, the Greek minister discussed the transport of natural gas using Greek ships.

Talking to reporters after the meetings, Stylianidis said that Greek diplomacy was extremely interested in establishing ties with Brazil since it is one of the most powerful Latin American countries and a member of the local economic union Mercosur, while it is regarding as a 'gateway' for trade with other South American countries in the interior.

The Greek minister also highlighted the role of Brazil's thriving Greek community in efforts to establish ties.

[25] Gov't calls for closer trade, business cooperation with Japan

Athens 14/7/2006 (ANA)

Addressing a conference, organized by the Japanese-Hellenic Chamber in cooperation with the Hellenic Export Promotion Organization (HEPO), Alogoskoufis said business cooperation between Greece and Japan has major growth prospects. Japanese enterprises can find fertile ground for making investments in Greece, while Greek enterprises can make a giant export leap in Japan's large and mature market, Alogoskoufis said, adding: "We encourage this prospect and support the cooperation of agencies involved in this significant leap".

The minister stressed that Greek enterprises were leaders in the southeast European economy, with investments totaling 12 billion euros in the region, while at the same time creating a wide network for promoting trade between the nine countries in the region.

"When someone invests in Greece he gains access to a dynamic network of Greek enterprises with significant activity in a region of around 140 million inhabitants, a region with high growth rates, increasing integration and with major growth prospects. By investing in Greece, an investor also enjoys macro-economic and monetary stability along with all the advantages resulting from the country's participation in the EU and the Eurozone".

Alogoskoufis praised the work by HEPO in an effort to boost Greek exports and made particular mention to a new program called "Kerasma" recently presented in Japan and aimed to promote Greek food and products.

[26] National Bank announces agreement for purchase of AEPEY shares

Athens 14/7/2006 (ANA)

The price of the purchase was set at 48.7 million euros and corresponds to 1.81 times the accounting value of P&K as at June 30, 2006, or 4.9 times the profits anticipated for 2006.

Theodoros and Gianna Angelopoulos participate in purchase of shares of 'Press Foundation S.A.' company

The board president of the "Typos Symmetohon S.A." company, George Dalakouras, announced that the company on Thursday obtained the shares of the "Press Foundation S.A." (Idryma Typou) company which publishes the Athens daily newspaper "Eleftheros Typos".

"We also decided the participation of Theodoros and Gianna Angelopoulos in the company 'Typos Symmetohon S.A. believing that they will contribute to the future course of the company," Dalakouras added.

On their part, Theodoros and Gianna Angelopoulos made the following statement:

"Participating in the company 'Typos Symmetohon S.A.' and assuming the responsibilities of 'Eleftheros Typos', a newspaper with a long course in the public affairs of Greece, we are entering the sensitive sector of the Press with a feeling of responsibility and conscious of its role.

"Our intention is to contribute to open public dialogue with the respect and support of the work of the journalists and of all those who toil for Eleftheros Typos."

Gianna Angelopoulos Daskalaki has served as Athens Olympic Games Organizing Committee president.

[27] Carrefour-Marinopoulos to manage chain's penetration of Bulgarian market

Athens 14/7/2006 (ANA)

Greece's Carrefour Marinopoulos, Carrefour's partner for Cyprus, Greece and Bulgaria, will be in charge of the local market entry, confirmed the communications manager of the Greek company.

According to a report in Bulgarian daily Dnevnik, the first Carrefour supermarket in Bulgaria will open at Tsarigradsko Shose Boulevard in the capital Sofia where a major investment plan will materialize in the sector of real estate development and management.

[28] Greek low salary earners among best paid low salary earners in Europe

BRUSSELS 14/7/2006 (ANA-MPA/M. Aroni)

The minimum legal salary in Greece in January this year was 668 euros. Bigger legal minimum salaries than Greece existed in Luxembourg (1,503 euros), Ireland (1,293, Holland (1,273), Britain (1,269), Belgium (1,234) and France (1,218).

On the other hand, in the same month, the minimum legal salary was 129 euros in Latvia, 159 in Lithuania, 192 in Estonia, 193 in Slovakia, 247 in Hungary and 261 in the Czech Republic.

According to the announcement issued by Eurostat, the European Union member-states are divided into three categories. To those with "high level" minimum salaries (they are the six countries having minimum salaries that are higher than Greece), those with "average level" minimum salaries and those with "low level" minimum salaries.

Greece ranks among the "average level" minimum salary group together with Spain (631 euros), Malta (580), Slovenia (512) and Portugal (437).

Lastly, as regards Greece, it is noted that together with Spain they are the two EU countries where salary earners are paid 14 salaries a year.

[29] Plans for a Theology School in Havana, Cuba

Athens 14/7/2006 (ANA)

The Metropolitan stated that the goal set together with Eusebio Leal --a philhellene architect who promotes the creation of a School of Theology in Cuba-- and President Castro is the total renovation of the neoclassical building situated in the Old City of Havana. He added that a request for financial support has been made to the Greek foreign ministry and hopefully the inauguration ceremony will be held in February 2007.

The Theology School in Cuba, called "little Halki" by the Metropolitan Bishop, after the Halki Seminary in Turkey, will operate on a dual basis. It will be both a theology school aimed at preparing Latin American clergy while, at the same time, feature a Modern Greek and Classical Studies Department.

The Christian Orthodox faith spreads with a steady pace in the countries under the jurisdiction of the Holy Metropolis of Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean, stressed Metropolitan Athinagoras. He said that he had just 4 priests when he took over the Holy Metropolis but today they increased to 35 and only two of them are Greek.

Athinagoras said that the Holy Metropolis has a 25,000-member-strong congregation and 20,000 of them are foreigners, the majority coming from Colombia, Haiti, Cuba and Mexico. Referring to Cuba, he said that in 2004, when it was visited by Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, there were just 3 Orthodox Christians in the country compared to 380 today, while 70 more are currently in the stage of indoctrination. "Every two months we baptize 10-15 young Cubans", stressed Metropolitan Bishop Athinagoras.

[30] European educational program on Renewable Energy Sources

Athens 14/7/2006 (ANA)

The regions of Crete (Greece), Saxony (Germany), Smaland-Oarna (Sweden), Emilia-Romana (Italy) and Border-Midland and Western Ireland (Ireland) are participating in the program.

[31] Minister of state addresses conference on 'Television for all'

Athens 14/7/2006 (ANA)

"We wanted the broadcasting of Prisma+, being one of the three land-based digital channels of ERT -the Greek Broadcasting Corporation- to constitute a point of reference of the movement for the rights of persons with a disability, as well as an example for the private sector," he said.

Roussopoulos referred in his address to the conclusions drawn from the report by the Special Interparty Committee on handling the problems facing disabled people that was submitted to Parliament President Anna Psarouda-Benaki.

The minister further said that a great deal of ground has yet to be covered to enable one to say that the constitutional rights of persons with a disability have been consolidated in practice, adding that problems are both many and great.

Roussopoulos also announced that "following coordinated action by many agencies, we are proceeding with the procurement and provision of necessary decodifiers for persons with a disability as a move for the greater publicizing of the undertaking to sensitize public opinion and to sensitize those who, being owners or participants in the administrations of the private media, will be able to move in the same direction."

[32] Man arrested on charge of espionage

Athens 14/7/2006 (ANA)

According to a police report, the man is suspected of posting highly-classified military documents on the Internet.

His whereabouts were traced after an Athens First-Instance Court public prosecutor issued an order lifting communications confidentiality, thus allowing investigating officers to follow his electronic trace on the web. During a search of the suspect's home, police found and confiscated a computer and two hard disks.

[33] Police find getaway van - Manhunt for armed robbers' underway

Athens 14/7/2006 (ANA)

They said a manhunt launched on Wednesday to locate and arrest the gang, who got away with 15 shotguns and several cases of ammunition, was continuing.

Police reported that five individuals had entered the KALKO company warehouse early on Wednesday brandishing their guns, tied up and gagged a company employee, a driver and the company owner and proceeded to remove 15 hunting shotguns.

They escaped using two passenger cars and a van loaded with 17 cases of hunting cartridges that were meant to be shipped by the company.

The robbery took place while the security alarm at the warehouse was deactivated and different commodities were being loaded onto trucks for delivery. Based on the police investigation carried out at the scene of the crime, the robbers were wearing hoods, gloves and uniforms similar to those worn by Police Special Guards.

Immigrant street vendors stage protest

[34] in Athens

Athens 14/7/2006 (ANA)

The new law confines licenses to sell goods in street markets to EU residents, and ethnic Greeks from Albania, the former Soviet Union and the Black Sea regions, provided they held a street-market vendor's license issued by municipalities or communities on June 30, 2005.

The protestors say that the new law forces them to become illegal even though they hold legal residence permits and have paid up both their taxes and social insurance contributions, even though many of them previously had street vendors' licenses.

[35] Deputy sports minister replies to criticism for mismanagement at OPAP football pools organization

Athens 14/7/2006 (ANA)

PASOK deputies who raised the issue in Parliament made charges concerning the circumvention of the charter of OPAP for the sake, as they said, of "serving political favors, the hiring of ruling party-affiliated people, exorbitant remuneration for the heads of the organization, the selective distribution of advertisements and sponsorships of a partisan character."

[36] Cyprus sticks to its proposal regarding return of Varosha

NICOSIA 14/7/2006 (CNA/ANA-MPA)

Replying to questions about a possible development on the direct trade regulation, Pashiardis said that the government promotes its proposal, because it deems that ''the acceptance of this proposal by Turkey offers Turkey a way out, providing at the same time an optimistic prospect for the Cyprus problem.''

Turkey is refusing to open its ports and airports to ships bearing the Cypriot flag and to Cypriot aircrafts, asserting that the EU did not meet its ''obligations'' for lifting the so-called ''isolation'' of the Turkish Cypriots.

Pashiardis noted that the proposal's implementation is up to Turkey and not the EU, underlying that the proposal should be implemented as a whole and not partially.

''For us it is inconceivable for the regulation to be confined only to (the opening of) Varoshia's port and not to the return of the city to its legal inhabitants,'' Pashiardis said, noting that ''without the return of the town the regulation cannot move forward.''

Replying to a question, Pashiardis noted that Nicosia could not accept anything that provides only for the partial implementation of Turkey's obligation towards the EU.

''Turkey's commitments and obligations are clearly defined and Turkey is obliged to implement them wholly,'' he added.

Furthermore, invited to comment on recent statements by Turkish Chief Negotiator with the EU Ali Babacan, Pashiardis said these and the coupling of Turkey's EU course with the Cyprus problem consist ''an unsuccessful attempt to by-pass the obligations Turkey assumed towards the Republic of Cyprus.''

Regarding Babacan's statement on the possible derailment of Turkey's EU bid, Pashiardis said that ''if Turkey's accession course is derailed after an EU 25 decision it will not be because of the Cyprus problem, but because of Turkey's insistence not to comply with its EU obligations and commitments.''

Regarding Babacan's threats for ''very dangerous consequences'' in case Turkey's EU course is derailed, Pashiardis said these were launched in the framework of Turkey's ''anachronistic attitude'' and show ''confusion and awkwardness.''

''Surely the method of blackmails and threats is not included in the Copenhagen and Maastricht criteria,'' the Cypriot spokesman concluded.

[37] Cypriot Spokesman: Bryza will be fully briefed

NICOSIA 14/7/2006 (CNA/ANA-MPA)

Bryza already held contacts in Ankara, and will also hold contacts in Athens before coming to the island, from July 16 to 19. On Wednesday US Ambassador to Cyprus Ronald Schlicher said that Bryza ''would like to have the widest possible range of contacts with decision makers on both sides.''

Replying to questions after Thursay's Cabinet meeting, Pashiardis noted that Bryza is always welcomed to Cyprus, so that he could be briefed on the positions and views of the Cypriot government regarding the Cyprus problem.

''The non arrangement of a meeting between President Papadopoulos and Bryza will not have as a result an incomplete briefing of the US official,'' Pashiardis added, noting that the government will brief him efficiently.

He noted that so far, Bryza's schedule includes meetings with Cypriot Foreign Ministry' Permanent Secretary and the Director of the Cyprus problem Division at the Foreign Ministry, while he did not rule out the possibility for Bryza to meet with other government officials.

''Our aim is to promote the relations and the cooperation with the United States, a country that undoubtedly has the potential to contribute to the achievement of a just and viable solution to the Cyprus problem,'' Pashiardis concluded.

[38] Cypriot House condemns Israeli attacks

NICOSIA 14/7/2006 (CNA/ANA-MPA)

The House noted at the same time that it did not approve of the abductions of Israeli soldiers, "being used by Israel as a pretext for attacks that further worsen the climate".

It said it expected the United Nations Security Council to urgently tackle the issue to end Israel's actions and implement the relevant UNSC resolutions.

The House deemed that "Israel's actions constitute a flagrant violation of the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Lebanon, the international law and the relevant UN resolutions, and amount to state terrorism".

The resolution said that Israel's attitude "dynamites efforts to promote peace in the wider region of the Middle East and undermines the international security".

"The House of Representatives unanimously and unconditionally condemns the flagrant aggression of Israel that had as a result the death of innocent people", the resolution adds.

The House reassured of its solidarity and support towards the people of Palestine, Lebanon and all Arabic people.

It also reaffirmed all previous resolutions regarding the situation in the Middle East.

[39] Cyprus offers help to Cypriots and other citizens, fleeing Lebanon

NICOSIA 14/7/2006 (CNA/ANA-MPA)

Foreign Ministry Permanent Secretary Sotos Zakheos said Thursday Cyprus Airways is evacuating around 116 people from Lebanon, on a plane from Damascus.

Earlier Thursday Deputy Minister to the President and Government Spokesman Christodoulos Pashiardes said that Cyprus will do its utmost for the safe transfer not only for Cypriots but other EU citizens as well.

In statements this afternoon, Zakheos said the foreign ministry has chartered a Cyprus Airways airplane which was due to leave the Syrian capital Damascus Thursday evening, with passengers coming by buses from Beirut, escorted by Lebanese police, a two and a half hours' drive, under normal circumstances.

The passengers are more than a hundred Cypriots who asked to leave, six Britons, four French nationals, two people from the Czech Republic and an American.

"Our wish is the safe transfer of the two buses. This is our agony, our concern and our responsibility. We are in constant communication with the Lebanese government, the EU presidency, the Israelis and everyone else who can assist us with this effort", Zakheos said, adding that an SMS service set up has proven helpful to establish communication with the Cypriots to be repatriated.

He further noted that Cyprus Minister of Health Haris Charalambous has pledged that a team of doctors and psychologists will be at Larnaca airport tonight to offer their support.

[40] OLAF: Cyprus an important partner in fight against smuggling

NICOSIA 14/7/2006 (CNA/ANA-MPA)

Presenting in Brussels the 6th report on OLAF's activities, Bruener also noted that Cyprus reports all important cargos, something which is an important tool for the identification and data analysis in the fight against cigarette smuggling.

In the common fight against fraud and corruption concerning VAT cases in Europe, we have a good cooperation with the Cypriot authorities and look forward to an even more active approach, he concluded.

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