Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English, 06-07-21

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

CONTENTS

[01] Greek C-130 carrying aid to Lebanon arrives in Cyprus

[02] Evacuation of Greeks, other nationals, from Lebanon continues

[03] SYN leader calls for parliamentary debate on Middle East crisis

[04] SYN delegation meets Lebanese envoy

[05] Greek FM Bakoyannis holds talks with British counterpart Beckett in London

[06] State department confirms talks between Burns-Bakoyannis

[07] Vasilakis addresses UNSC on Middle East crisis

[08] Prime minister meets with Cyprus DISY party leader

[09] Deputy FM represents Greece at events marking anniversary of Turkish invasion in Cyprus

[10] Greek parliamentary delegation has contacts in Nicosia

[11] The Cyprus issue is an international problem of invasion and occupation, PASOK leader reiterates

[12] New generation fighter jets in Larisa

[13] PM confers with education minister

[14] Greek govt says cannot examine Bank of Cyprus offer for Emporiki Bank

[15] Flow of tourists to Greece is expected to increase by about 10% in 2006, minister says

[16] Greek-French consortium to install seven radars in Bulgarian coasts by September 2007

[17] Greek current accounts deficit up 170 pct in May

[18] Serbia signs 'Corridor 10' Protocol

[19] Draft bill for equality in the workplace tabled in Parliament

[20] Greek stocks end 1.92 pct up on Thursday

[21] Italian Cultural Institute reopens after 25 years

[22] Authorities test for pollutants as fire in Tagarades landfill burns on

[23] Families of Ricomex earthquake victims awarded ¬ 2.83 million

[24] Security corps' demonstration in Thessalonica

[25] Traffic police find 63 illegal immigrants abandoned in truck

[26] Death of journalist Ioannis Liapis

[27] 2nd meeting of Thessalians living in Europe

[28] Vintage motorcycle exhibition in Chania

[29] Extension of recycling program on Crete

[30] Meeting on 'Media Terra' program begins in Thessalonica

[31] Papadopoulos says consultations to reveal validity of Turkish remarks

[32] Cyprus pays tribute to those killed in 1974 Turkish invasion

[33] FM: 11,500 civilians fled Lebanon via Cyprus, number is growing

[34] Blair thanks Papadopoulos for Cyprus' help during Lebanon crisis

[01] Greek C-130 carrying aid to Lebanon arrives in Cyprus

ATHENS, 21/7/2006 (ANA)

The aid will be transferred to a Greek tank-landing vessel docked at Larnaca port to be shipped to Beirut, while the C-130 is scheduled to return to Greece at 16:30 carrying 60 Greek citizens and Deputy Foreign Minister Theodoros Kassimis.

The aid consignment includes nine tones of medical supplies, bedding and tents requested by the Lebanese government from the European Union.

Stylianidis stressed that the foreign ministry had sped to meet the Lebanese request as soon as this was passed on to the EU member-states.

"Hellenic Aid mobilized all the NGOs involved in humanitarian aid and the appropriate ministries," he noted, while thanking the three aid organizations - the Red Cross, Medecins du Monde and Doctors of the Heart - for their immediate response.

The minister also conveyed his thanks to the Greek health ministry, which had supplied 20,000 doses of antibiotics, the defense ministry for providing the plane and the Athens municipality for arranging transportation of the aid consignment to Elefsina military airport.

The medical supplies also include blood plasma, IV drips, catheters, sedatives and anti-diarrhea medication, according to Olga Dalikarou from the health ministry's National Centre for Health Operations.

A representative of Medecins du Monde, meanwhile, reported that the first shortages in medical supplies and hospitals were becoming apparent in Lebanon. He said the first five doctors sent by the organization were leaving for Damascus on Friday, from where they would try to enter Lebanon and get as near the war zone as possible.

Stylianidis was at the military airport in Elefsis to see off the plane in the morning, along with foreign ministry general secretary Theodoros Skylakakis, officials from the other ministries involved, representatives of the foreign ministry humanitarian relief organization Hellenic Aid, which is coordinating the collection and dispatch of the aid consignment, and of the three non-governmental aid organizations taking part in the mission.

Meanwhile, a second dispatch of aid was prepared to be sent in a Greek Air Force plane on Thursday, to be followed by others in a wide-scale operation organized by the foreign ministry in cooperation with the national defense ministry.

Asked how the safe delivery of the aid will be ensured, a senior Air Force officer at Elefsis said the Greek Navy vessels carrying aid would enter Beirut port at a time when there was no danger of bombardment.

The first aid consignment consisted of:

Two tones of medicine, medical supplies and tents collected by Doctors of the Heart; Two thousand blankets and 50 eight-person tents donated by the Red Cross and 100 items of bedding from Medicin du Monde; six thousand human doses of antibiotics (out of 20,000 in total) offered by the health ministry; and medical various supplies and 29,800 units of varied pharmaceuticals offered by the Greek Air Force.

A foreign ministry announcement stressed that Athens was in constant contact with the Greek embassies in Beirut and Nicosia to bring the aid to Lebanon and with the European Commission, which has announced that it will send ¬ 5.0 million in humanitarian aid and will contribute with any means at its disposal to the first phase of supplying humanitarian aid and the second phase of Lebanon's reconstruction.

Aid organizations wanted to contribute can contact Hellenic Aid at the numbers 2103683682, 2103683679 and the 24-hour line 2103681212, the announcement added.

PASOK criticizes government for 'delayed' humanitarian aid to Lebanon: Main opposition PASOK coordinator on foreign issues Andreas Loverdos on Thursday criticized the government for what he called "delayed reaction" in sending humanitarian aid to Lebanon.

A military C-130 cargo plane left Athens earlier in the morning with the first dispatch of humanitarian aid for Lebanon and has already landed at Cyprus' Larnaca airport.

"At last Greece, even with a delay, responds to its international humanitarian obligations by sending pharmaceutical items, food, tents and blankets to Lebanon. But the issue of sending humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip remains pending," Loverdos said.

[02] Evacuation of Greeks, other nationals, from Lebanon continues

NICOSIA, 21/7/2006(ANA-MPA/A. Viketos)

Kassimis arrived in Larnaca on Wednesday afternoon to coordinate dispatches of Greek humanitarian aid to Lebanon, following an appeal by the Lebanese government, and also to represent the Greek government at memorial events on Thursday marking the 32nd 'black' anniversary of the 1974 Turkish invasion of Cyprus and its continuing occupation of the northern part of the island republic.

Meanwhile, some 120 Greeks fleeing strife-torn Lebanon arrived in Greece in the early morning hours of Thursday on a Hellenic Air Force C-130 military transport plane, which they had boarded a few hours earlier at the Cypriot airport of Larnaca. The group had arrived about an hour after midnight at Cyprus' port in Limassol from Lebanon aboard the passenger ship "Kriti II", where they were greeted by Kassimis

Kassimis congratulated the government of Cyprus for the assistance it has provided to Greeks and nationals of other countries fleeing Lebanon.

He said that Cyprus, a country that has suffered so much itself, was the first to extend a helping hand to all those leaving Lebanon.

Greece, too, he added, was present from the very first moment, and made no distinctions regarding the nationality of the people wishing to leave the dangerous war zone.

Greece and Cyprus, he said, were truly factors of stability and cooperation in the eastern Mediterranean region.

Meanwhile, Greece's National Defense General Staff (GEETHA) announced that the operation for the safe evacuation of non-combatants from Lebanon would continue on Thursday with the army frigates PSARA and THEMISTOCLES.

The two Greek frigates were due to arrive at the port of Beirut before noon on Thursday, at which time the boarding of more non-combatants would begin.

Foreign Ministry: According to a Greek foreign ministry announcement on Thursday, Greece has so far carried out five evacuation operations and provided passage out of Lebanon for 1,700 people, of which 500 were Greeks.

More than 30 countries have so far requested Athens' assistance in removing their citizens from the war zone, it added.

So far, Greece has helped evacuate citizens from Cyprus, Austria, Argentina, Bulgaria, Lebanon, Belgium, the United States, the Netherlands, Russia, UK, Canada, China, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Lithuania, Mexico, Slovakia, Sweden, Australia, Switzerland, Jordan, Romania, New Zealand, Sierra Leone, Sri Lanka, Romania, Ethiopia and the Philippines.

Greece's assistance has also been requested by the United Nations, while several countries have chartered Greek-registered ships.

The foreign ministry stressed that every effort had been made to meet demands for ships by other countries, despite the heightened domestic demand during the holiday period.

Greek frigate transports 236 non-combatants from Beirut to Larnaca; more humanitarian aid on its way to Lebanon: The second Greek frigate "Themistoklis", which transported 236 non-combatants from the port of Beirut earlier on Thursday, is sailing towards Larnaca, Cyprus.

Meanwhile, the second C-130 took off from Elefsina military airport early afternoon carrying humanitarian aid for Lebanon. The plane will land at Larnaca airport from where the aid will be transported by ship to Beirut. Also on board the plane are five Navy doctors.

[03] SYN leader calls for parliamentary debate on Middle East crisis

ATHENS, 21/7/2006 (ANA)

At the same time, he also called on the government to undertake initiatives at all levels for peace in the region. Alavanos pointed out that the Middle East conflict was assuming massive proportions, warning that there was a big risk that it would develop into an all-out war conflict, adding that hundreds of civilians have already lost their lives.

Greece has special reasons to be alarmed by the dramatic deterioration of the situation because, beyond the already visible economic repercussions, there could also be serious side-effects on priority issues in the country's foreign policy, such as the Cyprus issue, Alavanos stressed.

Greece had to be at the frontline of initiatives for peace in the region since day one of the crisis, utilizing its capacity as an EU and a UN Security Council member, he concluded.

[04] SYN delegation meets Lebanese envoy

ATHENS, 21/7/2006 (ANA)

The delegation expressed the party's solidarity with the Lebanese people suffering from the Israeli attacks, a SYN press release said.

"The destruction of Lebanon is a crime against humanity. The war, launched by the Israeli government must stop immediately. This is the duty and the obligation of all peoples and governments. The Israeli government does not only massacre a multicultural, multireligious and multinational society such as the Lebanese society, it also kills peace and it constitutes a shame for human civilization," Constantopoulos said.

"The Israeli government's war with the blessings and the cover-up of the U.S., within the framework of the Bush doctrine, darkens the whole world," the SYN deputy said, calling at the same time on the European Union to abandon its stance of "half words, apathy or weakness".

Cruise ship with Israeli tourists: A cruise ship with 463 Israeli tourists on board that sailed into the port of Thessalonica on Wednesday is expected to set sail Thursday afternoon.

The Malta-flag "Theiris" left Haifa, Israel ten days ago -- before the outbreak of hostilities on the Israeli-Lebanese border -- with scheduled stopovers at the ports of Rhodes, Greece and Kusadasi, Turkey.

The Israelis toured Thessalonica under tight security measures escorted by police that checked the sites they were about to visit.

The ship's next stop will be the Aegean island of Santorini, and next week it is due back in Haifa. However, a final decision on where its passengers will disembark has not been made yet because of the unsettled situation in the region.

[05] Greek FM Bakoyannis holds talks with British counterpart Beckett in London

LONDON, 21/7/2006 (ANA-MPA/L.Tsirigotakis)

Bakoyannis was accompanied by Deputy Foreign Minister Yiannis Valinakis during her talks which also covered EU enlargement, Turkey's European course, the Cyprus issue and the Iran crisis.

Foreign Secretary Margaret Beckett, who had a working lunch with the Greek officials at Lancaster House, told reporters that her talks with Bakoyannis were particularly useful and said she had the opportunity to brief the Greek foreign minister on the talks she had these past days on the crisis in Lebanon, with foreign ministers of countries within and out of the European Union.

Beckett said: "We also discussed the issue of the evacuation from Lebanon of nationals of European Union countries and on this issue we are cooperating very closely with Greece. The evacuation of European nationals from Lebanon is a broader collective effort of the European Union. We are particularly grateful for the help which Cyprus is offering in the humanitarian effort for the evacuation of European citizens from Lebanon."

"We also discussed the negotiations concerning Turkey's European course. We also discussed the Cyprus issue, the prospects of progress for finding a solution. Along with other European countries we have common strategic objectives on this issue and we hope to continue negotiations and cooperation between us," the British foreign secretary added.

On her part, Greek Foreign Minister Bakoyannis said that "the discussions we had today at the Foreign Office were extremely interesting. Greece and Great Britain are cooperating within the European Union, and now that Greece is a non-permanent member of the Security Council, at the Security Council also. I had the opportunity to discuss with my British counterpart Middle East issues, where the concern, as you are aware, is common in all the member states of the European Union, but also broader, the developments which we have. She thanked me for Greece's role in the humanitarian aid which is being given these days, for the best possible coordination of the European Union in Lebanon, so that people wishing to leave Lebanon, to have the opportunity to do so and naturally at the same time we have occupied ourselves on the aftermath."

"My country's view is known. We believe that that there should be a ceasefire as soon as possible so that the possibility be given for a diplomatic solution. Naturally, what we ask for is for the two Israeli soldiers which have been kidnapped, to be promptly returned, so that Lebanon itself to be protected. We also discussed the issue of Iran and of course referred analytically to Turkey's European course, the difficulties which are being presented and I had the opportunity to explain Greece's position. Greece, as you know, supports Turkey's European course. The prerequisites are clear, Turkey assumed certain obligations towards the European Union and must honor them," Bakoyannis added.

The Greek foreign minister went on to say: "Regarding the Cyprus issue, we discussed Mr. (UN Under Secretary for Political Affairs Ibrahim) Gambari's initiative, the presence of Mr. Gambari in Cyprus, the results of which as you know, have led to certain decisions for the operation of committees and at the same time we also had the opportunity to re-discuss the issues related to the Regulation, which started by the Luxembourg presidency and there are certain basic ideas for free trade, who this Regulation could proceed."

The foreign reporters were briefed by Greek Foreign Ministry Spokesman George Koumoutsakos, who also took part in the talks.

[06] State department confirms talks between Burns-Bakoyannis

WASHINGTON, 21/7/2006 (ANA-MPA - A. Ellis)

"I know that within the past week and a half or so, Under Secretary Burns spoke with the Greek Foreign Minister. I'm sure our embassy is having consultations with the Greek Government," spokesman Sean McCormack said in response to questions.

[07] Vasilakis addresses UNSC on Middle East crisis

NEW YORK, 21/7/2006 (ANA-MPA/P.Panayiotou)

Vasilakis also expressed his support to UN Secretary General Koffi Anan's proposals regarding the Middle East crisis.

Vasilakis reminded the council members of Greek Prime Minister's statements on Wednesday for an immediate ceasefire, unconditional release of the captive soldiers, disarmament of the paramilitary organizations, full and speedy restoration of the sovereignty of the Lebanese government throughout all the territory of Lebanon, insurance of the protection of the unarmed who wish to leave the region, international assistance for humanitarian needs, adding that Greece "is ready to contribute actively, substantively and constructively to these required actions of the international community."

"Our steadfast goal is the speedy diffusion of the dangerous crisis and the restoration of peace for the benefit of all peoples in the region," Vasilakis said

[08] Prime minister meets with Cyprus DISY party leader

ATHENS, 21/7/2006 (ANA)

Anastasiades, who is holding a series of meetings with government and political party leaders in Athens, told reporters after the meeting that he had explained his thoughts and concerns on the development of the Cyprus issue to Karamanlis, adding that the prime minister "always listens to the views with understanding and, adhering to a policy of support for the positions of the Greek Cypriot side, does everything that can possibly be done".

The DISY leader warned that, as time went by, the faits accomplis were being consolidated and rendered irreversible, with repercussions on the security of the Cypriot Hellenism.

Asked whether the Annan plan should be reactivated, or whether some parts of it should be utilized, Anastasiades said that there were important elements that could be taken advantage of in the proposals put forward at various times by the United Nations, adding that those proposals, regardless of what some sides thought, would always remain "on the table" and comprise the basis for negotiation.

Asked to comment on a recent statement by Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan on "political equality", Anastasiades reminded that the Greek Cypriot side has accepted this principle since 1990-91, and did not comprise a "demand" by Erdogan.

He clarified that "when we speak of political equality, we are always speaking on the basis of a federation".

The DISY leader, who met separately on Wednesday with foreign minister Dora Bakoyannis and Greek main opposition PASOK leader George Papandreou, is due to be received on Friday by President of the Republic Karolos Papoulias.

[09] Deputy FM represents Greece at events marking anniversary of Turkish invasion in Cyprus

NICOSIA, 21/7/2006 (ANA-MPA/A. Viketos)

Kassimis laid a wreath at the monument of the officers and soldiers from Greece and Cyprus who died in the 1974 invasion, during a memorial service at the Makedonitissa military cemetery in Nicosia.

He also attended a Te Deum officiated by Metropolitan Bishop Chrysostomos of Paphos.

Thursday marks the 32nd anniversary of the Turkish military invasion of Cyprus (code-named Attila), and the continuing Turkish military occupation of the northern part of the island.

Although it became a full member of the European Union in 2004, Cyprus is the only European country that remains divided and under military occupation, and by an EU candidate member at that, Turkey.

The Cyprus problem has remained unresolved for 32 years and the Cypriot people -- Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots alike -- are still suffering the heavy consequences of the division and occupation of their homeland.

Memorial services for those who died in the invasion and the deums for the country's freedom and resolution of the fate of the missing persons from the invasion are being held throughout the free sectors of Cyprus whereas, conversely, 'celebrations' are being held in the occupied sector, culminating in a Turkish military parade that is being attended by Recep Tayypi Erdogan, prime minister of Turkey, which is the only country to have recognized the self-styled 'Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus' that was unilaterally proclaimed in 1983.

Respected Turkish Cypriot journalist and publisher Sener Levent, who has in the past been jailed by the Turkish Cypriot regime on "treason" charges for his criticism of the Turkish occupation and the occupation regime --in his then Avrupa (Europe) newspaper, which has since been renamed Africa-- wrote in an article appearing Thursday in the Politics newspaper: "This island, every July 20, resembles a child, whose one eye sheds tears while the other eye laughs. In essence, there is nothing for one to laugh about or celebrate".

[10] Greek parliamentary delegation has contacts in Nicosia

NICOSIA, 21/7/2006 (ANA-MPA/A.Viketos)

Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Skrekas reassured that the Greek people always stands by the side of Cyprus and struggles with the island republic for the resolution of its problems.

"There is an excellent cooperation between the governments of Greece and Cyprus on the political issue of Cyprus, but also on issues relating to the European Union," Skrekas said.

Cyprus' EU accession "offered a strategic advantage to Greece and Cyprus, because two cooperating forces dispose of two votes which are powerful in EU agencies," he added.

The Greek parliament's delegation also met with Greece's Ambassador to Nicosia Dimitrios Rallis.

[11] The Cyprus issue is an international problem of invasion and occupation, PASOK leader reiterates

ATHENS, 21/7/2006 (ANA)

Papandreou stressed that Turkey, which wants to become a member of the European family, must meet its obligations of good-neighborhood and respect of International Law toward Cyprus as well, in order to be able to live in peace, with cooperation and a prospect for economic growth and friendship.

Papandreou stressed that Cyprus is a member of the European Union, and an important country that was already playing a significant role in the evacuation of non-combatants from Lebanon.

The PASOK leader said that for the past 32 years "we have been working for a free and united Cyprus where Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots will be able to live together without a wall separating them". He also stressed that a strong effort is being made to formulate a course that will "consolidate our rights and peace" so that the product of the people's toil may be invested in peaceful purposes.

Papandreou also said that he visited the outpost to honor and thank all the Greek men and women serving their country in the border regions, bringing a sense of security to the people while safeguarding Greece's rights and territorial integrity.

[12] New generation fighter jets in Larisa

ATHENS, 21/7/2006 (ANA)

The advanced aircraft will upgrade the Tactical Air Force Headquarters and the 110 Fighter Wing to which the 337th Squadron belongs operationally.

[13] PM confers with education minister

ATHENS, 21/7/2006 (ANA)

Yannakou told reporters after the meeting that she briefed the prime minister on the actions taken in the sector of education and the visits she and her associates were making to different parts of the country, adding that the approximately 40 million school books for the new scholastic year are ready and teaching personnel appointments and transfers have been made this year earlier than any other time.

Yannakou also referred to the Technological Education Institutions (TEI) issue created after the decision to change entry criteria and adopt a passing grade of 10/20 in entrance examinations, stressing that the TEI professors are in favor of the evaluation and upgrading of the education process.

On the education draft law debate, Giannakou stated that dialogue will continue and will be exhaustive, underlining that public consultation is the only way to have composition of views.

[14] Greek govt says cannot examine Bank of Cyprus offer for Emporiki Bank

ATHENS, 21/7/2006 (ANA)

Earlier in the day, Hellenic Capital Markets Commission rejected Bank of Cyprus' application to revoke its public offer for Emporiki Bank. Market officials said the move was expected since the reason the bank claimed -of possible consequences in Emporiki Bank's pension fund- was groundless.

Late on Wednesday, the board of Bank of Cyprus issued an announcement saying the board unanimously agreed to apply with the Hellenic Capital Markets Commission for a revocation of its public offer to buy 100 percent of shares in Emporiki Bank of Greece.

This development leaves Credit Agricole the only contender in a race to buy Emporiki Bank.

PASOK's Vasso Papandreou and SYN's Lafazanis on Emporiki Bank issue: Vasso Papandreou, head of the Economy Department of the main opposition Pan-Hellenic Socialist Movement (PASOK), commenting on the issue of Emporiki Bank, said Thursday that "we are warning the government that the sale of Emporiki with one just offer is inadmissible."

She added: "The so-called government's reforms in the issue of the social insurance scheme of bank employees yet again acquire a stench of scandal. The government irreversibly exposed the country by creating grey zones in the buyout of Emporiki Bank."

On his part, Panagiotis Lafazanis, member of the Political Bureau of the Coalition of the Left, Movements and Ecology (Synaspismos) and head of the party's Economic and Social Policy Division, said that Economy and Finance Minister George Alogoskoufis, "instead of stating which proposal for the buyout of Emporiki Bank is examining seriously and which not, should immediately abandon the attempt of privatizing Emporiki Bank."

Economy and Finance Minister George Alogoskoufis said earlier Thursday that the Greek government would not proceed with the examination of Bank of Cyprus' offer to buy 100 percent of Emporiki Bank's shares due to the inconsistency throughout the procedure.

Economy ministry responds to PASOK's comments regarding Emporiki Bank:

The Economy and Finance Ministry in an announcement on Thursday, in response to statements by main opposition Pan-Hellenic Socialist Movement (PASOK) officials regarding the procedure for the privatization of Emporiki Bank, said that "the PASOK officials continue to oppose public interest, cause upheaval in the Stock Exchange and obstruct the effort for the improvement of the economy."

The ministry announcement said "the officials of the main opposition yet again resort to groundless scandal-mongering. They forget that under their governments, the shares percentage proposal by Emporiki Bank to Credit Acrole was carried out with closed procedures and bilateral negations."

"The current procedure of the privatization of Emporiki Bank is conducted through open public proposals with full transparency, as foreseen by the law," the announcement concluded.

[15] Flow of tourists to Greece is expected to increase by about 10% in 2006, minister says

ATHENS, 21/7/2006 (ANA)

Referring to the crisis in the Middle East and the events taking place in Lebanon, she reiterated that Greece is a safe country, noting that tourism is not threatened, neither was it threatened in the past by similar events.

[16] Greek-French consortium to install seven radars in Bulgarian coasts by September 2007

ATHENS, 21/7/2006 (ANA)

The installation of the radars is expected to be completed by September 2007 and is incorporated in the framework of the broader project, with the objective of the creation of a system of management of sea traffic, entitled "Vessel Traffic and Management Information System (VTMIS).

The Greek-French consortium undertook the project following an international tender, submitting an offer amounting to 3.2 million euros which gave it the lead against major competitors, such as the Irish Transas, the Italian Selex, the French Thales and the Bulgarian Salem. According to data from the company, which ANA-MPA has at its disposal, the aim of the project, which is financed to a great degree by the EU program Phare, is the better management of sea traffic and the strengthening of security and of environmental protection in the region.

[17] Greek current accounts deficit up 170 pct in May

ATHENS, 21/7/2006 (ANA)

The central bank, in its report, said the current accounts deficit in the five-month period from January to May widened by 5.040 billion euros to 12.196 billion euros, reflecting a higher trade deficit (fuel, vessel and other goods).

The country's trade deficit grew by 3.525 billion euros in the first five months of 2006, reflecting increased payments for fuel imports (1.259 bln euros), higher net payments for the purchase of vessels (1.123 bln euros) and an 1.143 billion euros increase in the trade deficit (excluding fuel and vessels). Proceeds from the export of goods grew 17.8 pct to 692 million euros, although payment for imports rose 15 percent to 1.862 billion euros over the same period.

The country's trade deficit, excluding fuel and vessels, totaled 9.7 billion euros, up 13.4 pct from the same period last year.

The services sector's surplus fell by 679 million euros reflecting lower net revenues from transportation services. Tourism revenues fell 3.9 pct to 1.9 billion euros in the first five months of 2006, while spending on travels abroad eased 2.1 pct to 911 million euros. The incomes' deficit grew by 832 million euros due to higher net payment for interest, dividends and profits. The direct investments category recorded a net inflow of 519 million euros in May, helped by the inflow of 392 mln euros by Dubai Financial to buy a 31.5 pct equity stake in Marfin Financial Group.

Direct investments recorded a net inflow of 893 million euros in the January-May period, sharply up from a net inflow of 59 million euros in the corresponding period last year.

[18] Serbia signs 'Corridor 10' Protocol

BELGRADO, 21/7/2006 (ANA-MPA/N. Pelpas)

Investment minister Velimir Ilic signed the protocol, which provides for trans-border cooperation among the countries crossed by Corridor 10, at a ceremony attended by Greece's ambassador in Belgrade Christos Panagopoulos.

Representatives of the other countries involved signed the Protocol on June 16 on the Greek island of Corfu, but Ilic had not been able to attend at the time due to prior engagements.

The protocol aims at facilitating the transit of travelers at the borders, so as to eliminate delays.

[19] Draft bill for equality in the workplace tabled in Parliament

ATHENS, 21/7/2006 (ANA)

The bill incorporates a 2002 European Union directive on gender equality that forbids terminating a work contract on the grounds of gender, family responsibilities or in reaction to an employee not accepting sexual or other harassment or because of testifying in court. In charge of monitoring implementation of the bill is the Greek Ombudsman, who will be responsible for alerting the local Labor Review Body inspectors and writing the final report.

[20] Greek stocks end 1.92 pct up on Thursday

ATHENS, 21/7/2006 (ANA)

All sector indices ended higher with the Raw Materials (3.23 pct), Telecoms (2.94 pct), Financial services (2.50 pct), Technology (2.30 pct), Food-Beverage (2.23 pct) scoring the biggest percentage gains of the day.

The Big Cap index rose 1.84 pct, the Mid Cap index jumped 1.91 pct and the Small Cap index soared 2.68 pct. Broadly, advancers led decliners by 209 to 59 with another 38 issues unchanged.

ADEX closing report:

Derivatives contracts in the Big Cap index saw their discount close during Thursday's session of the Athens Derivatives Exchange. Turnover was an improved 220.026 million euros.

The July contract on the FTSE-20 index was traded at a premium of 0.20 pct and on the FTSE-40 index at a discount of 0.94 pct.

Volume in futures contracts on the FTSE 20 index totaled 15,616 contracts, worth 152.71 million euros with 31,371 open positions, while buy options recorded a volume of 3,099 contracts worth 30.5 million euros.

Volume in futures contracts on the FTSE 40 index totaled 664 contracts, worth 12.92 million euros with 1,566 open positions, while buy options recorded a volume of 46 contracts worth 918,000 euros.

Volume in futures contracts on equities totaled 3,801 contracts, worth 7.066 million euros, with trading activity focused on OTE contracts (960 contracts), and followed by Eurobank (111), Emporiki (196), PPC (136), Piraeus Bank (144), National Bank (615), Alpha Bank (251) and Intracom (526).

Volume in stock repos totaled 3,437 contracts and in reverse stock repos 58 contracts.

Greek bond market closing report:

Turnover in the Greek electronic secondary bond market rose to 2.557 billion euros on Thursday with the yield spread between the 10-year Greek and German benchmark state bonds easing to 33.8 basis points. In the domestic interbank market, interest rates were unchanged. National Bank's overnight rate ended at 2.74-2.84 pct, the two-week rate at 2.76-2.86 pct, the one-month rate at 2.85-2.95 pct, the six-month rate at 3.18-3.28 pct and the 12-month rate at 3.43-3.53 pct.

Foreign Exchange Rates:

Reference buying rates per euro released by the European Central Bank:

U.S. dollar 1.264

[21] Italian Cultural Institute reopens after 25 years

ATHENS, 21/7/2006 (ANA)

Extensive restoration works have been completed in the early 20th century building, which originally housed the Italian School until the 1960s as the "Casa d' Italia", while since 1954 it was the traditional seat of the Italian Cultural Institute in Athens.

Casa d' Italia is once again becoming a reference point and a meeting place for the members of the Italian community in the Greek capital and the numerous Greeks who have waited a long time to enjoy the services that will be offered again by the Italian Institute, according to a statement issued by the Italian Embassy in Athens.

Emanuele Arciuli will give a solo-piano concert on the occasion of the inauguration ceremony with a specially prepared program that will include music pieces by great Italian composers or by other composers who are very close to Italy's cultural ideal. Those attending will also have the opportunity to enjoy the works of two internationally acclaimed artists, sculptor and designer Emilio Greco and painter Riccardo Licata.

[22] Authorities test for pollutants as fire in Tagarades landfill burns on

ATHENS, 21/7/2006 (ANA)

"The samples we are collecting will be sent to 'Democritus' (research facility) and, once the results are back, we will be able to assess the situation. In the meantime, we are advising all sheep and cattle farmers and the owners of poultry-farming units to avoid free-range grazing, to confine animals in enclosed spaces, to avoid using free-range animals to supply dairy products and to use animal feed originating outside the affected area," the head of the Thessalonica Prefecture Animal Hygiene department Evangelos Trelopoulos said.

The prefecture was also making arrangements with the agricultural compensation fund ELGA for farmers whose produce was deemed unfit for consumption, officials added, while the Central Macedonia Region Authority had been asked to contribute funds to deal with the crisis caused by the fire.

This included the cost of removing topsoil contaminated by leachate in the Aghia Paraskevi area near the landfill, they said.

Meanwhile, earthworks to cover the refuse and put out the fire in the landfill were continuing. Experts explained that the only way to extinguish the blaze was to cover it with soil so that no oxygen could get through.

"We have united the roads from the east and west flanks of the fire and now the machinery is working intensively," the president of the Greater Thessalonica Local Authority Organization Association Yiannis Zournas said, noting that the fire was now down to one third of its original size.

He said the fire should be completely out by Sunday, except in a lake of leachate that was 20 meters deep and presented additional difficulties.

[23] Families of Ricomex earthquake victims awarded ¬ 2.83 million

ATHENS, 21/7/2006 (ANA)

The court also attributed blame to the East Attica Prefecture, accepting that there had been illegal actions and omissions during precautionary inspections of the building by the East Attica Town Planning Department.

Thirty-nine people were killed and several more injured in the factory's collapse during the earthquake.

[24] Security corps' demonstration in Thessalonica

ATHENS, 21/7/2006 (ANA)

The demonstrators demanded that their professions be recognized as hazardous, while they also called for organizational restructuring, appointments of new personnel, higher wages and a new ranking system.

Security forces to hold protest march in Athens on Monday: Police, fire department and coast guard officers throughout Greece are expected to convene in Athens on Monday in order to take part in a protest rally and march to demand higher wages.

The rally will gather in the park opposite the Hilton Hotel at 17:00 in the afternoon, after which the protestors will march to Parliament.

They are seeking an increase in the basic wage, that their work be officially classed as hazardous for pension purposes and additional payment for being asked to police sports events.

[25] Traffic police find 63 illegal immigrants abandoned in truck

ATHENS, 21/7/2006 (ANA)

Police later arrested one man alleged to be the truck's owner, while the driver of the vehicle and his escorts had all disappeared.

The immigrants - from Iraq, Afghanistan, Iran and Pakistan - were in poor condition and were taken to police holding jails in Fthiotida, where the Red Cross, the prefecture and members of the local medical association arrived to give them first aid.

[26] Death of journalist Ioannis Liapis

ATHENS, 21/7/2006 (ANA)

Liapis was born in Thessalonica in 1943 and was a member of the Macedonia-Thrace Journalists Union since 1971. He studied English Literature at Thessalonica's Aristotelion University and Comparative Philology at London University. For a number of years he was the Northern Greece Desk editor-in-chief of the Athens daily Eleftherotypia.

He served as a member of the Macedonia-Thrace Journalists Union board of directors in 1990-1991 and 1996-1998. In 1989 and 1995 he received the Abdi Ipekci award while he was also a past recipient of the first prize of the Botsis Foundation for the Promotion of Journalism.

[27] 2nd meeting of Thessalians living in Europe

ATHENS, 21/7/2006 (ANA)

The cultural event established last year by the Federation of Thessalian Associations of Germany and other European countries takes place each summer in a different municipality of Thessaly.

The 1st meeting was held on August 15, 2005 at the sycamore tree forest in the municipality of Faloria, in the prefecture of Trikala.

[28] Vintage motorcycle exhibition in Chania

ATHENS, 21/7/2006 (ANA)

The exhibition, organized by the vintage motorcycle association of Chania within the framework of the "Cultural Summer 2006" municipal events, will feature 70 motorcycles, 90 percent of which are still running.

The oldest is a 1914 British "Douglas" and the newest a 1975 Honda.

Also on display are also motorcycles used during WWII.

[29] Extension of recycling program on Crete

ATHENS, 21/7/2006 (ANA)

Special dumpsters will be placed in Georgioupoli, Nea Kidonia, Platania, Agia Marina, Kolibari and Tavronitis by the end of the week where most of the hotel units of Chania are situated.

Special signs will be stuck on the recycling dumpsters so that foreign tourists will also be able to take part in the recycling effort.

[30] Meeting on 'Media Terra' program begins in Thessalonica

ATHENS, 21/7/2006 (ANA)

The 'Media Terra' program, which is part of the EU 'Archimed' initiative, aims at sensitizing and timely informing public opinion on natural disaster issues.

The Athens News Agency-Macedonian Press Agency (ANA-MPA), the Anadolu Turkish news agency, the Syrian SANA agency, the Palestinian WAFA agency, Greece's Civil Protection General Secretariat, the University of Thessaly, the Municipality of Latsia from Cyprus, the Civil Protection Service of Southern Italy as well as the University of Palermo are taking part in the meetings.

[31] Papadopoulos says consultations to reveal validity of Turkish remarks

NICOSIA, 21/7/2006 (CNA/ANA-MPA)

On Wednesday, Erdogan reiterated Turkish positions for a solution on the basis of political equality and said the Turkish side was always a step ahead.

Speaking after a memorial at Makedonitissa Tomb in Nicosia for those who were killed during the 1974 Turkish invasion of the island, President Papadopoulos said ''the facts speak for themselves.''

He added that ''it will be proven how much validity and truth all these statements carry when, we hope, consultations begin for the commencement of negotiations.''

President Papadopoulos pointed out that the presence of Erdogan in the Turkish occupied areas, to mark the anniversary of the invasion, is an illegal and provocative action.

Referring to those who lost their lives during the invasion, President Papadopoulos said that at Thursday's memorial the Greek military men who died defending Cyprus were honored.

President: ready for honorable and painful solution: President Papadopoulos said that the final settlement of the Cyprus problem will be a solution of necessity and compromise, but pointed out that the victim cannot be expected to pay the whole price and the immolator be rewarded for its crime.

Speaking Wednesday night at the Presidential Palace at an event to mark the anniversary of the coup of 15 July 1974 and the Turkish invasion

of 20 July 1974, President Papadopoulos said ''we are ready to pay the bitter and painful price of an honorable but painful compromise, and we are willing and ready for talks for such a compromise.''

He reiterated that the Greek Cypriot side maintains its position for a settlement based on a bizonal, bicommunal federation, adding that ''on this basis, we are seeking a functional and viable solution,'' which would bring about the reunification of the island, the society, the economy, the institutions and the people, Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots.

President Papadopoulos said the lapse of time is not working in favor of the Greek Cypriot side, but pointed out that ''this is not our choice, we are not responsible for the ineffectiveness of the years that have passed, it is not up to us to determine when our tragedy will end, and we want a solution the soonest possible.''

The president also said that in order to reach a settlement it was necessary that the Turkish Cypriot side showed the political will.

Referring to the agreement reached with Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat to begin talks on a technical level, President Papadopoulos said ''we will work and cooperate sincerely and constructively to pave the way for substantive negotiations that will lead to a solution of the Cyprus problem.''

President Papadopoulos said that on the anniversaries of the coup and the Turkish invasion it was "our duty to remember and honor the late President Archbishop Makarios III, who embodied the hopes of the country, to honor the brave defenders of democracy and to pay tribute to the victims of the criminal illegality and the dead of the coup and the invasion."

He welcomed to Cyprus the members of the Greek parliamentary delegation and expressed the gratitude of Cypriot Hellenism to Greece for its support.

On July 15 1974 a military coup, orchestrated by the junta then ruling Greece which was assisted by forces within the National Guard in Cyprus, toppled the legal government of Archbishop Makarios. Five days later, Turkish troops invaded Cyprus on the pretext of restoring constitutional order and protecting the Turkish Cypriot community.

Some 40,000 troops are still illegally on the island, exercising full control of about 37 per cent of its territory and refusing to withdraw despite repeated calls from the UN and other international fora.

[32] Cyprus pays tribute to those killed in 1974 Turkish invasion

NICOSIA, 21/7/2006 (CNA/ANA-MPA)

A memorial service for the army officers and soldiers killed during the invasion was held in the morning at the military cemetery at Makedonitissa Tomb in Nicosia.

The ceremony was attended by Cypriot President Tassos Papadopoulos, House of Representatives President Demetris Christofias and other officials as well as representatives of the associations of those who fought during the invasion and relatives of those killed.

Greek Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Theodoros Kassimis and Ambassador of Greece to Cyprus Demetrios Rallis were also present.

Wreaths were laid after the ceremony.

The official memorial service was held at Faneromeni Church in Nicosia. Speaking at the ceremony, Cypriot Minister of Foreign Affairs George Lillikas said that the Greek Cypriot side ''desires a solution of the Cyprus problem as soon as possible but will not sacrifice the solution's quality and viability at the altar of time.''

''We will in no case accept a solution which will make the Greek Cypriots second class citizens and offer intervention rights to a third country or will place the Republic of Cyprus under custody,'' Lillikas said, adding that ''the solution must secure the rights and freedoms of all legitimate inhabitants of Cyprus and must be balanced, functional and viable.''

Referring to the commencement of Turkey's negotiations for accession to the EU, Lillikas said Cyprus' consent was ''not unconditional'' but was given after securing ''a certain framework of obligations, which Turkey is obliged to fulfill so it can continue its accession course smoothly.''

He added that the Republic of Cyprus does not disagree with those expressing the argument that an interruption of Turkey's EU course would not be a good development for the prospects for a Cyprus settlement, noting however that ''a worse development for Cyprus would be the continuation of Turkey's EU course without Ankara fulfilling its obligations and pushing the solution of Cyprus in the depth of time''.

''It is at least ironic for someone to ask the victim to assist the immolator offering him crutches. Those who desire to help Turkey to stick to its EU orbit must convince it to respect its obligations,'' Lillikas said, adding that Cyprus' stance towards Turkey's EU course depended on Turkey itself.

The minister also referred to the Turkish Cypriot claim for direct trade, pointing out that this has ''a pure political content and aims at securing political advantages.''

He pointed out that the only acceptable option for this issue is President Papadopoulos' proposal for a joint administration of Famagusta's port together with the return of the fenced-off city of Varoshia to its legitimate inhabitants and the application of a moratorium for the illegal exploitation of Greek Cypriot properties in the occupied areas.

[33] FM: 11,500 civilians fled Lebanon via Cyprus, number is growing

NICOSIA, 21/7/2006 (CNA/ANA-MPA)

For the better coordination of the situation, a meeting took place Thursday at the Cypriot foreign ministry, in the presence of members of the Cabinet and the Police leadership.

In statements after the meeting, Foreign Minister George Lillikas said that Cyprus has asked for other European countries to open up their borders and help evacuate non-combatants from Lebanon.

Moreover, the government of Cyprus has requested more aircrafts to arrive in Cyprus to carry all those foreign nationals who are fleeing Lebanon back to their homelands.

On Thursday, Lillkas held a telephone conversation with his Finnish counterpart Erkki Tuomiya, whose country is holding the EU rotating presidency.

"He promised that together with the Commission, they would make every effort to respond to Cyprus' requests, acknowledging that only by a common European action, we will be able to offer our humanitarian services to all those people, and that Cyprus has exceeded itself and any other country in matters of offering its services", he said.

He clarified that "we will not offer long-term accommodation to those who are fleeing Lebanon. We are making efforts so that their stay is only for few hours, when needed. That is the reason why we have asked for more aircrafts, so that by the time they arrive at the ports, the soonest possible they will be transferred to Larnaca and Paphos airports for immediate departure to their countries".

"Until yesterday (Wednesday), 11,500 people have moved via our ports and their number is growing daily", he said.

In case there is a flow of Lebanese refugees towards Cyprus, he said that such possibility would be examined with the EU and the United Nations to coordinate actions, but clarified that there is no such issue yet.

"Based on the European policy, if there is flow of refugees from Lebanon, other European countries will have to accommodate them as well", he added.

Regarding the cost, the foreign minister said that there is some cost for the government of Cyprus, but most of it is covered by the countries whose nationals are affected.

But he noted that if the cost is unbearable, then Cyprus will ask for help from other countries.

"When it comes to saving lives, and because we have experienced human tragedy and war in 1974, the Republic of Cyprus will pay a cost" he added.

Besides European nationals, there are requests from the Philippines, Sri Lanka, the Ukraine, Russia, Mexico and India for Cyprus to accommodate their nationals who abandon war-torn Lebanon.

"Already, around 1,000 Indian nationals will be transferred from Lebanon via Cyprus back to India", he said.

[34] Blair thanks Papadopoulos for Cyprus' help during Lebanon crisis

NICOSIA, 21/7/2006 (CNA/ANA-MPA)

The letter was handed over Thursday by Minister at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office Lord Triesman, during a meeting at the Presidential Palace with President Papadopoulos.

"The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, your port authorities, police and many others have been of great assistance during this difficult period. I am most grateful", the British premier says in his letter.

He adds "we will, of course, continue to rely on your assistance as numbers of evacuees increase over the next few days".

"Lord Triesman, Minister at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, is in Cyprus today to discuss how best to coordinate our ongoing cooperation", the letter concludes.

The British minister met later on with Cypriot Foreign Minister George Lillikas and then headed for the British Bases and other places where the rapid redeployment groups are stationed to help the evacuees.

On Friday he is expected to visit Limassol Port, where the Royal Navy HMS Bulwark will dock with some 2,000 people of various nationalities, mainly British, aboard.

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