Athens News Agency: News Bulletin in English, 07-02-13

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

CONTENTS

[01] PM confers with merchant marine minister

[02] Greek-Bulgarian relations entering 'golden age', President Papoulias says

[03] Official dinner

[04] Bulgaria offers solid ground to Greek firms with well-planned business strategies

[05] EU General Affairs Council examines future status quo of Kosovo

[06] Gov't on future status of Kosovo

[07] KKE condemns Ahtisaari plan on Kosovo

[08] EU German Presidency adopts two Greek proposals on mass media, Roussopoulos says

[09] Greek ministers at EU council on media and culture in Berlin

[10] 'No issue of reshuffle', gov't says

[11] Gov't on Pangalos' backing for revision of university asylum law

[12] PASOK spokesman defends party's withdrawal from constitutional revision process

[13] Education and tourism ministers discuss tourism-training issues

[14] Inner Cabinet to discuss broadband, digital strategy

[15] Athens mayor receives Cypriot and German envoys

[16] FinMin reviews results of recent visit to India

[17] Finmin rules out rise in advance tax payments for businesses, banks

[18] Gov't, central bank discuss supervision of banking, insurance sectors

[19] Labour confederation calls on contract workers to mobilise on February 15

[20] Increases for pensioners degrading and unacceptable, KKE leader says

[21] Emporiki Bank terminates operations in Germany

[22] Greek import prices index up 0.2 pct in December 2006, yr/yr

[23] Greece prepares for increased electricity demand this year

[24] Neochimiki ABEE says EBITD up 112 pct in 2006

[25] Hellenic Technodomiki TEB to absorb Pantechniki

[26] Attica Holding sells Superfast X ferry to Veolia Transport for 112 mln euros

[27] Alma-Atermon buys Liberian-based shipping companies for 13.3 mln euros

[28] 'Zootechnia' int'l exhibition ends in Thessaloniki; marked increase in visitors

[29] Greek stocks plunge 1.7 pct on Monday

[30] ADEX closing report

[31] Greek bond market closing report

[32] Foreign Exchange Rates - Tuesday

[33] IKA Governor Yiannis Vartholomeos buried

[34] Development minister inaugurates exhibition on 'effects of radiation'

[35] Ombudsman taking initiative on refugee and Roma issues

[36] ESRC-funded study on the European dimension of national policy in SE Europe

[37] Media Terra conference in Rome

[38] Coalition (SYN) party calls for dialogue on climate change

[39] Greek Youth Conference on physical sciences in Kalabaka

[40] Policeman charged with murder for fatal shooting of robber

[41] International meeting on European Police Systems

[42] Greek Police Chief meets SG of Union of Greek Banks

[43] Police free woman held captive in stable, arrests announced

[44] Justice minister addresses seminar on 'administering of justice'

[45] Armed bank robbery in Thessaloniki

[46] Arson attack against National Bank branch in Exarchia

[47] Cyprus will formally apply this week to enter the EMU

[48] Cyprus application to join EMU to be evaluated according to Maastricht criteria

[49] Cyprus constituent part of UNESCO Convention on Cultural Expression

[01] PM confers with merchant marine minister

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Kefaloyannis said that the reforms in the sector were headed for completion, while large investments in the port facilities were progressing.

"We are opening up a new page in ocean-going shipping," Kefaloyannis said.

The minister further announced that five new bills would be tabled by his ministry in the coming period, which concerned the transfer of the shipping services division in the wider Piraeus region.

"We are optimistic also about the new plans being advanced by the merchant marine ministry," Kefaloyannis added.

PASOK party official criticises statements by merchant marine minister

Main opposition PASOK party development, tourism and merchant marine official Christos Papoutsis said on Monday, referring to statements made by Merchant Marine Minister Manolis Kefaloyiannis after meeting Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis, that "when Mr. Kefaloyiannis speaks of reform, he evidently means the disorganising and destructuring of the merchant marine ministry, for which he bears the entire responsibility himself, as well as the prime minister."

Papoutsis added that "as for ports, instead of big investments, the only thing we saw was government irresponsibility, a great turmoil and negative repercussions for economic and commercial activity."

He also said that "as for the five new legislative bills announ-ced by Mr. Kefaloyiannis, nobody in the shipping community knows anything specific."

[02] Greek-Bulgarian relations entering 'golden age', President Papoulias says

Relations between Greece and Bulgaria were now entering a 'golden age', President of the Hellenic Republic Karolos Papoulias said on Monday, the first day of an official visit to Greece's northern neighbour.

In joint statements with Bulgarian President Georgi Purvanov, the two men said that this was the best period in the history of bilateral relations between the two countries.

Papoulias also pointed to the prospects of Greece, Bulgaria and Romania creating a 'Balkan nucleus' within the European Union, following Bulgaria and Romania's accession to the EU on January 1, 2007.

They had earlier held talks on the full range of bilateral issues, which then continued with the participation of delegations from both sides that included Macedonia-Thrace Minister George Kalantzis, Deputy Finance Minister Petros Doukas and Development Minister Tassos Nerantzis.

Papoulias is scheduled to stay in Bulgaria until Wednesday afternoon, after which he departs for a three-day official visit to Romania ending on Friday.

The visit also comes hard on the heels of an agreement initialled by Greece, Bulgaria and Russia last week for the construction of the Burgas-Alexandroupolis oil pipeline, which is due to be officially signed by the three sides in Athens this March.

Papoulias invited Purvanov to attend the signing ceremony in Athens, stressing that he will also attend - not least because he had also contributed to the early stages of the agreement when he was Greece's foreign minister.

The Greek president underlined his satisfaction that the pipeline project was finally on the verge of being realised, after several years of effort.

Purvanov, on his part, told reporters that he had received "assurances" from teams handling the negotiations regarding the oil pipeline project that the "basic problems had been overcome" and that the three sides were now heading toward a final signature of the agreement.

"I want to clearly state that Bulgaria is making every effort to promote this project. At the same time, I want to underline that this plan is one of several that must be carried out in the effort to seek different energy sources, not just for our own region but for all of Europe," he said.

The Bulgarian president noted that the project held the promise of greater prosperity and was a guarantee for security in the region.

Purvanov's reference to further development of nuclear power by Bulgaria, however, was greeted with reservations by the Greek president. Responding to questions about a possible reopening of sections of Bulgaria's nuclear power plant in Kozloduy, Papoulias stressed that this was a domestic issue that was also linked to the country's adherence to Community regulations.

Both Papoulias and Purvanov stressed the importance of ope-ning new crossing points on the Greek-Bulgarian border for bilateral relations on all levels and said that several potential areas of cooperation remained unexploited, such as in tourism. Purvanov said the two sides could also cooperate in the defence industry and in civilian protection.

Referring to possible cooperation within the EU, Papoulias said the new 'Balkan nucleus' created by the entry of Romania and Bulgaria to the Community gave them additional clout when it came to "pushing for what Europeans must do for the Balkan peninsula".

Asked about the future status of Kosovo, Purvanov said that this was discussed with Papoulias and he echoed Athens' position in favour of a solution that was mutually acceptable to both Belgrade and Pristina.

He stressed that a solution must take into account the interests of Kosovo's population, as well as Pristina's relations with Belgrade and the surrouding region.

"We do not agree with a solution that identifies with ethnically pure states, because in the Balkans such a solution is not possible," Purvanov added.

According to Bulgaria's president, a solution to the problems of the western Balkans should be sought in the 2002 Thessaloniki Agenda on EU enlargement, which confirmed their European perspective and pledged to support their efforts in this direction, including an enhanced economic strategy that bound them to new forms of cooperation.

[03] Official dinner

Visiting President Karolos Papoulias said on Monday that the accession of Bulgaria and Romania to the European Union is a development of historic significance.

He further stressed that Sofia achieved a position in Europe that belongs to it historically and achieved it rightfully "with longstanding and laborious efforts and sacrifices, as well as with the fulfillment of all preconditions, as every country is obliged to do", that desires to join the EU.

Speaking in the evening during an official dinner given in his honour by Bulgarian President Georgi Parvanov, President Papoulias reiterated that Greece supports the European prospects of the Balkans and stressed that the accession of these countries to the EU "will open a new chapter in the region that will be based on International Law, will respect history, will reject its distortions and will consolidate stability and prosperity."

Referring to the Burgas-Alexandroupoli oil pipeline, President Papoulias said that the implementation of the construction of this project of strategic importance will upgrade the two countries' presence in the energy map, contribute to the security of energy products and provide diplomatic and economic benefits.

President Papoulias will be addressing the Greek-Bulgarian business forum on Tuesday, meeting the president of the Bulgarian National Assembly and having a working luncheon with Bulgarian Prime Minister Sergei Stanisev.

[04] Bulgaria offers solid ground to Greek firms with well-planned business strategies

Developments in Bulgaria as a member of the EU will not be earth-shattering considering that 90 percent of the country's banking sector is already controlled by major foreign banks while, as far as Greek businesses are concerned, they have nothing to fear if their strategy is well-planned, the president of the Hellenic Business Council in Bulgaria, Christos Katsanis, said on Monday in an interview with ANA-MPA.

Problems could be faced only by certain textile companies or any company that has moved to Bulgaria looking for cheap labor, Katsanis added.

The Hellenic Business Council in Bulgaria numbers over 70 members, representing the sectors of banking, food, chemicals, telecommunications, manufacturing, advertising, insurance and counseling services, which account for the 'lion's share' of Greek investments in the country, officially estimated at 1.5 billion euros.

Katsanis said that Bulgaria has tidied up its economy beginning with the stabilization of its banking system through the signing of an agreement with the IMF and by establishing the Monetary Council in the country which means greater fiscal and monetary discipline. The biggest problem for Bulgaria after the impressive recovery of its economy, according to Katsanis, is the large foreign trade deficit corresponding to 15 percent of the GDP in 2005, and is expected to be considerably high in 2006 despite the notable increase recorded last year in Bulgarian exports.

On the other hand, the measures taken in the banking sector created a climate of confidence among foreign investors that resulted in a significant rise in foreign investments, counterbalancing the deficit in current transactions to agreat degree, Katsanis explained.

The European Union is a complex environment that offers tools and opportunity under conditions of intense competitiveness, stressed Katsanis, underlining that Bulgaria's advantage is its great tradition in the sector of electronics and information science as well as the studiousness displayed by its people.

[05] EU General Affairs Council examines future status quo of Kosovo

The European Union's General Affairs Council convened here on Monday and examined the future status quo of Kosovo and Serbia's European prospects. Greece was represented by Deputy Foreign Minister Yiannis Valynakis.

Speaking during the Council, the UN secretary general's special representative, Martti Ahtisaari, outlined for the EU's foreign ministers the content of the proposals he submitted recently on the future status quo of Kosovo.

The Council expressed support for his efforts and issued conclusions pointing out that the EU supports a democratic and multi-ethnic Kosovo, where a peaceful and secure future for all communities in the region will be safeguarded. The need for stable political and economic development and backing for stability in the entire region was also underlined.

The Council also called on Belgrade and Pristina to participate actively and constructively in intensive consultations for a compromise to be achieved. The General Affairs Council also expressed its readiness to contribute decisively to the effort the international community will be undertaking after the status quo for Kosovo has been determined, following a relevant decision by the UN Security Council.

Speaking to reporters, Valynakis said that Greece supports efforts by Ahtisaari for the different positions of the two sides to be bridged, stressing at the same time that the goal was and remains achieving an effective and viable compromise with balanced benefits.

He added that Greece "notes with satisfaction the extensive powers anticipated for minorities living in Kosovo, including the Serbs, as an essential element of a multi-ethnic, multi-cultural and safe sociaty for all its members.

He added that Greece supports a workable and viable solution in accordance with European principles and values. According to the minister, special attention should be given to the element of stability, and for this reason Greece supports that the International Community and particularly the EU must have a powerful role after determining the status of Kosovo. Valinakis on this point expressed Greece's determination to contribute substantively and be present in achieving this goal.

Referring to developments in Serbia and to its European prospects, Valynakis said that this country is at a crucial turning point and that it is very important that processes for the formation of a government to be completed soon, adding that securing the country's European prospects must be a catalyst to this end.

[06] Gov't on future status of Kosovo

Spokesman Evangelos Antonaros made the statement during his regular press briefing, and in response to a query on Greece's position.

Stability in the region should be the main criterion, he added, stressing that Kosovo's multicultural status should be protected via guarantees for all of its people and cultural monuments. He also expressed Athens' support for the European prospect of the entire region, adding that European principles and values must be observed, however.

[07] KKE condemns Ahtisaari plan on Kosovo

KKE said that "the EU's warm support" for the Ahtisaari plan, that leads to the independence of Kosovo", confirms that the United States and the EU are competing as to who will have the biggest contribution to the promotion of imperialist plans of 'divide and rule' in the Balkans."

Lastly, it stressed that "following this crucial option of the ND government, no party has the right not to take up an explicit position", adding that "the Greek people have a duty and must condemn it in the most categorical way."

[08] EU German Presidency adopts two Greek proposals on mass media, Roussopoulos says

The chairman of the Council of the European Union on issues of Audiovisual Mass Media and Culture, Bernd Neumann, on Monday adopted two Greek proposals which were already presented through a letter before Monday's informal meeting in Berlin, by Minister of State Theodoros Roussopoulos.

The proposals concern the creation of a European Observatory for the Mass Media, with objective "their operation and role, as well as the exploring the possibilities of cooperation among member-states on the awareness and philosophy of the Mass Media, as an informative and entertainment tool," as Rousso-poulos said, as well as the establishment of the projection by all the state-run television channels of the EU member-states of an informative "one minute spot" on European issues.

These proposals will be raised in the agenda of the German EU Presidency at the next regular, and not informal, Council, which will convene in Brussels in May, for the "modernisation" of the existing EU Directive on Audiovisual Mass Media, known under the title "Television without borders".

Roussopoulos briefed the Greek correspondents on the issues discussed by the relevant ministers at the informal meeting, at which the major topic was the disguised advertisement (the so-called black advertisement), in television and film programmes, as was stressed later in a joint press conference by Neumann and Commissioner for Information Society and Media, Viviane Reding.

"At this point our opinions differ," said Roussopoulos, clari-fying that there is a view which is in principle in favour of the forbidding of the "black advertisement", giving however the opportunity to each member-state to decide on exceptions, and one contrary view which in general and in principle is in favour of the unimpeded use of the "black advertisement", thus giving the possibility to a country to institutionalise exceptions. "Our country is in favour of the first view," Roussopoulos said.

[09] Greek ministers at EU council on media and culture in Berlin

The council session on Tuesday, in which Voulgarakis will participate, will focus on the economic aspects of cultural activities.

The two ministers, who arrived in Berlin on Sunday night, will also take part in the 'European Shooting Star' awards for rising European actors - one from each country - that was to take place during the Berlin Film Festival on Monday evening. Greece's 'Shooting Star' is the actress Panagiota Vladi who will receive her award from Voulgarakis.

[10] 'No issue of reshuffle', gov't says

"There is no issue of a reshuffle of the government," alternate government spokesman Evangelos Antonaros said Monday, replying to questions during a regular press briefing.

[11] Gov't on Pangalos' backing for revision of university asylum law

Antonaros added that during the three-day debate held in Parliament last week, the government's position was crystal clear while PASOK and its leader engaged in a "disorderly retreat" and regressed on substantive issues concerning education reforms and changes.

Antonaros also cited a statement, a day earlier, by Education Minister Marietta Yiannakou, who referred to the reason for any delay in tabling a draft law on education reforms.

The spokesman, moreover, confirmed the government's intention to submit the reforms package in the current Parliament, stressing that the government's expressed objective is for the two votes in the legislature -- as required by Parliament's rules -- to take place within the next six weeks.

Pangalos interview

In a wide-ranging interview published in the Sunday edition of the Athens daily "Kathimerini", Pangalos backs the idea of unrestricted police patrols on university campuses, which is forbidden today due to the university asylum law.

"If you go today to the University of Thessaloniki you will see that it is reminiscent of a huge outdoor bazaar. Various street peddlers, who are obviously weary of venturing into village squares, hawk whatever you can image in an utterly illegal manner: without a license; without issuing receipts; without paying taxes," Pangalos charged, while adding:

"Can this giant bazaar be covered up with university asylum law, preventing police from entering and imposing law and order?" he asked.

[12] PASOK spokesman defends party's withdrawal from constitutional revision process

He added that PASOK has permanently walked out of the process, and of course, has withdrawn its proposals.

Moreover, Efthymiou said there was no contradiction in PASOK leadership's stated position in favor of a revision of Article 16 - which prohibits the operation non-state universities in the country - and the latest decision to withdraw from the constitutional revision debate in Parliament.

Finally, the spokesman, a former education minister, sharply criticised Public Order Minister Vyron Polydoras for his most recent comments against groups of masked youths that often infiltrate protests through central Athens. The latter reportedly threatened to take action against the troublemakers himself.

In an unrelated development, Efthymiou said PASOK's positions aim at benefiting decentralising institutions, when asked if the party was concerned that the Coalition of the Left (Synaspismos) will not vote for Athens-Piraeus supra-prefect Fofi Yennimata as president of the union representing the country's prefectures.

[13] Education and tourism ministers discuss tourism-training issues

After the meeting, Yiannakou referred to plans for a new Tourism Strategy and Development department at Piraeus University, for which a preliminary study was close to completion.

Petralia said that tourism development in the next decade would begin through tourist education structures.

[14] Inner Cabinet to discuss broadband, digital strategy

[15] Athens mayor receives Cypriot and German envoys

Kaklamanis and the German envoy agreed on cooperation between the City of Athens and Germany on cultural matters, while with the Cypriot ambassador it was agreed that a monument in honour of Cypriot freedom fighters be erected in the Athens suburb of Kypseli. The monument is a grant by a Cypriot artist.

Financial News

[16] FinMin reviews results of recent visit to India

Alogoskoufis said that there would be continuity in the effort to advance the relations between the two countries, announcing that prime minister Costas Karamanlis would also visit India later in 2007, while a date for the Indian president's visit to Greece will also be finalised soon.

At the same time, he continued, the Hellenic Exports Promotion Organisation (HEPO) was planning five more business missions to India, and namely to New Delhi and Bombay.

Alogoskoufis also referred to his meetings in New Delhi with the Indian ministers of Finance, Palaniappan Chidambaram, foreign affairs Anand Sharma, and Commerce and Industry Kamal Nath.

With Chidambaram, Alogoskoufis said they discussed issues concernng the global economy, India-EU relations, and the liberalisation of trade.

In addition, two agreements were advanced. The first agreement concerns the avoidance of double taxation, given that the existing accord does not cover all the contemporary needs.

According to Alogoskoufis, a few details remained to te finalised in the text of the accord.

The second agreement, he added, concerns the promotion and protection of investments, noting that there already exists an agreement between the two countries for joint business activities, such as in the sector of tourism for example.

Alogoskoufis also outlined Greece's role in Southeastern Europe during that meeting.

With Sharma, Alogoskoufis said he also discussed economic issues, given that Sharma has also served in the past as finance minister of India.

Alogoskoufis noted that India supports Greece in international organisations on a variety of issues, such as the Cyprus problem.

With Nath, Alogoskoufis said he discussed matters of foreign trade, as Nath was playing a central role in the liberalisation of trade and in EU-India relations.

Alogoskoufis said there was a coincidence of views on all issues, adding that the Indian ministers he met with had been impressed by the Greek commercial delegation, while they also agreed that an Indian business mission would be sent to Greece.

Greek, Indian industry federations sign partnership protocol

The Federation of Greek Industries (SEB) on Monday stressed that the signing of a partnership protocol with the Federation of India Industries -- ironed out last Friday on the sidelines of Economy and Finance Minister George Alogoskoufis' official visit to New Delhi -- established the foundations for a long-term cooperation between the two business communities.

In an announcement, SEB said India's noteworthy growth rates, its progress in high technology and the huge size of its market, in tandem with Greece's low export performance and limited investment initiatives, were the main motives for initiating the partnership.

Thanassis Lavidas, the federation's secretary-general and the head of international activities, said the agreement aimed to create a network of reliable and fundamental information over opportunities offered by the Indian market, and also in helping select dynamic and credible Indian partners to promote joint ventures.

Lavidas also recommended the creation of a Greek-Indian business council to help bring the two countries closer.

SEB expects a group of Indian entrepreneurs to visit Athens soon and plans a business visit to Mumbai.

[17] Finmin rules out rise in advance tax payments for businesses, banks

Commenting on reports that the European Commission recommended an increase in the limit for dismissals, meanwhile, Alogoskoufis said that the Commission's report had not yet come to Greece and that the recommendations of international organisations were not binding but indicative.

Asked about the prospect of further reductions of taxation on wages, he said that this had already begun and would happen irrespective of the Commission's recommendations.

[18] Gov't, central bank discuss supervision of banking, insurance sectors

The meeting also focused on a number of issues to be discussed with the European Central Bank, along with better coordination of regulatory authorities in the banking and insurance sectors.

[19] Labour confederation calls on contract workers to mobilise on February 15

GSEE President Yiannis Panagopoulos termed the intervention by Supreme Court prosecutor Sanidas "unprecedented", who calls on senior judges to revoke, in a short period of time, the decision they had taken only six months ago.

Panagopoulos said that labour unions will intervene in the process with their legal advisers, adding that "provocative decisions will find us against them both inside the country and abroad."

[20] Increases for pensioners degrading and unacceptable, KKE leader says

Papariga added that "our position is that not only should there be a substantive increase in pensions, but at the same time, here and now, conditions should be created to enable pensioners to have full and substantive treatment and care for health issues."

[21] Emporiki Bank terminates operations in Germany

[22] Greek import prices index up 0.2 pct in December 2006, yr/yr

The statistics service, in a report, attributed the December increase to a 3.9 pct rise in import prices from Eurozone countries and a 4.7 pct increase from non-Eurozone countries.

The intermediate goods price index jumped 8.4 pct in December, the energy goods price index fell 10.6 pct, the capital goods index rose 0.3 pct, the consumer goods index rose 2.0 pct and the durable goods index fell 0.1 pct.

The import prices composite index fell 0.6 pct in December from November.

[23] Greece prepares for increased electricity demand this year

Addressing an event to celebrate the new year, Stephanou said the termination of Kozlodui's number three and four units from January 1, 2007, has cut electricity imports from Bulgaria by 77 pct, while water reserves were down 41 pct in the country. He noted that the ministry, in cooperation with Public Power Corporation, was seeking other sources of electricity power for the supply of the domestic market this year. Stephanou said the ministry has approved an one billion euros programme aimed to expand the support the country's electricity grid.

[24] Neochimiki ABEE says EBITD up 112 pct in 2006

The board meeting also discussed a plan by Lamda Detergent to merge its activities with Veterin, EVIK and Elpharma, aiming to create a single company with diversified activities. Neochimiki also announced a board decision to sell its 12.7-pct equity stake in Alapis this year. The proceeds of the sale will be used to refinance its existing bank debt and finance its expansion drive in south-eastern Europe.

Neochimiki group purchased and operated five new chemicals factories, four in Greece and one abroad. Consolidated sales jumped 112 percent to 301.8 million euros, consolidated pre-tax, interest and amortization earnings soared 124 pct to 61.6 million euros and earnings after tax and minorities surged 669 pct to 97.1 million euros. Earnings included proceeds of 73.9 million euros from the sale of an equity stake in Lamda Detergent to foreign institutional investors.

The group also announced the merger of its subsidiaries Novion SA and Interkem-Hellas SA, with an equity capital of 22.7 million euros.

[25] Hellenic Technodomiki TEB to absorb Pantechniki

The plan, to be discussed by a general shareholders' meeting, envisages an 1-to-2.318574 shares exchange rate between the two companies.

[26] Attica Holding sells Superfast X ferry to Veolia Transport for 112 mln euros

Superfast X operated the Scotland-Belgium sea line in the North Sea from May 2002 until last month when it was replaced by Blue Star 1.

[27] Alma-Atermon buys Liberian-based shipping companies for 13.3 mln euros

The Greek company said it acquired 70 percent of shares in Sterling Shipholdings SA and another 70 percent in Pyramid Navigation Inc. Both acquisitions were made after a board decision and agreement between Alma Atermon and Gener SA with Freedom Tankers SA.

[28] 'Zootechnia' int'l exhibition ends in Thessaloniki; marked increase in visitors

According to the organising company, HELEXPO S.A., the exhibition "passes into history as the most successful one, with the greatest response in trade visitors and a broad public and as the greatest in southeast Europe and the eastern Mediterra-nean."

Visitors increased by 90 per cent in comparision to the previous exhibition in 2005.

A total of 42,808 people visited the exhibition, against 22,637 in 2005 (Zootechnia is held every two years). The number of trade visitors also increased by 160 per cent, reaching 4,012 and came from Greece, Albania, Bulgaria, Germany, Spain, Italy, Cyprus, Ukraine, the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM), Romania, Serbia and Turkey.

[29] Greek stocks plunge 1.7 pct on Monday

All sectors ended lower with the exception of Utilities and Chemicals (up 0.21 pct and 0.04 pct, respectively), while Raw Materials (3.10 pct), Insurance (3.09 pct) and Technology (3.04 pct) suffered the heaviest percentage losses of the day.

The Big Cap index dropped 1.79 pct, the Mid Cap index ended 1.79 pct lower and the Small Cap index plunged 3.08 pct.

Quality (19.12 pct), Desmos (16.67 pct) and Allatini Ceramics (14.44 pct) were top gainers, while Pantechniki (9.32 pct), Newsphone Hellas (9.28 pct) and Veterin (9.13 pct) were top losers.

Broadly, decliners led advancers by 257 to 26 with another 27 issues unchanged.

Sector indices ended as follows:

Insurance: -3.09%

Industrials: -2.61%

Commercial: -1.80%

Construction: -2.47%

Media: -2.65%

Oil & Gas: -1.25%

Personal & Household: -1.31%

Raw Materials: -3.10%

Travel & Leisure: -1.24%

Technology: -3.04%

Telecoms: -2.56%

Banks: -1.90%

Food & Beverages: -0.70%

Health: -2.68%

Utilities: +0.21%

Chemicals: +0.04%

Financial Services: -1.53%

The stocks with the highest turnover were Neochimiki, National Bank, Lamda Detergent, OTE and Marfin Popular Bank.

Selected shares from the FTSE/ASE-20 index closed in euros as follows:

Alpha Bank: 24.02

ATEbank: 4.00

Public Power Corp (PPC): 21.52

HBC Coca Cola: 30.50

Hellenic Petroleum: 11.00

Emporiki Bank: 21.80

National Bank of Greece: 38.60

EFG Eurobank Ergasias: 29.10

Intralot: 25.34

Cosmote: 22.80

OPAP: 29.20

OTE: 21.82

Titan Cement Company: 43.86

[30] ADEX closing report

Volume in futures contracts on the FTSE 20 index totaled 22,707 contracts worth 284.904 million euros, with 23,377 open positions in the market, and on the FTSE 40 index volume was 1,508 contracts worth 41.989 million euros with 1,655 open positions.

Volume in futures contracts on equities totaled 10,812 contracts worth 7.939 million euros with investment activity focusing on ATEbank (2,364 contracts) followed by OTE (531), PPC (528), Piraeus Bank (419), National Bank (1,609), Alpha Bank (842), Intracom (864), Mytilineos (563) and Motor Oil (259).

Volume in stock repos was one contract and in reverse stock repos 1,959 contracts.

[31] Greek bond market closing report

The 10-year benchmark bond (July 20, 2016) was the most heavily traded security with a turnover of 1.03 billion euros, while the yield spread between the 10-year Greek and German bonds fell to 0.235 percent. The Greek bond yielded 4.35 pct and the German bund 4.05 pct.

In the domestic interbank market, interest rates were mixed. National Bank's overnight rate rose to 3.56 pct from 3.54 pct on Friday, the two-day rate also rose to 3.56 pct from 3.54 pct, the one-month rate was 3.60 pct and the 12-month rate fell to 4.09 pct from 4.10 pct on Friday.

[32] Foreign Exchange Rates - Tuesday

U.S. dollar 1.306

Pound sterling 0.670

Danish kroner 7.513

Swedish kroner 9.177

Japanese yen 159.2

Swiss franc 1.636

Norwegian kroner 8.160

Cyprus pound 0.583

Canadian dollar 1.529

Australian dollar 1.687

General News

[33] IKA Governor Yiannis Vartholomeos buried

The bereaved family of the deceased, his wife and two children, received the condolences of those attending the funeral service at the Athens First Cemetery.

Interior Minister Prokopis Pavlopoulos said in his eulogy "today, we are bidding farewell to a valuable associate", who "started the reorganisation effort in a big organisation and nobody can forget his contribution."

Pavlopoulos further said that "we shall not allow the conjuncture of a moment to eliminate the light of an entire lifetime."

IKA Deputy Governor Dimitris Kyrzopoulos said on his part that "for his associates, the best recognition will be the continuation of his work."

[34] Development minister inaugurates exhibition on 'effects of radiation'

Also present at the inauguration of the exhibition at the development ministry were Research and Technology Secretary-General Ioannis Tsoukalas and EEAE president Leonidas Kamarinopoulos.

Projected at the exhibition is audio-visual material and the presentation of EEAE's major activities, such as the inspection of laboratories, the control of the environment's radiation and the control of the emission of electromagnetic radiation.

In his address, Sioufas said that one of the government's primary objectives and that of the development ministry is the continuing of upgrading the Greek Research and Technology System and particularly the EEAE, which is the relevant authority on nuclear energy, nuclear technology and the protection against radiation.

[35] Ombudsman taking initiative on refugee and Roma issues

The independent authority is proceeding with this initiative, bearing in mind the serious difficulties facing vulnerable social groups, such as Roma (gypsies) and people applying for asylum, as regards their access to the Ombudsman's mediation services for defending their rights, as well as the lack of information and special know-how for many agencies of the society of citizens that are active in the field of legislative and judicial developments.

The aim of the information network is the improvement of contact between the Ombudsman and specific social groups, while non-governmental organisations, agencies and organisations will be participating in the network.

[36] ESRC-funded study on the European dimension of national policy in SE Europe

The study, funded by the UK's Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), will focus on the changes brought about by EU practices in SE European countries at a political level and how they affect domestic policy drafting procedures through 'multileveled governance' that presupposes an interdependent relationship between government and other forces both at a national and international level.

The sectors of public policy that will be under study are social economic cohesion, environment, immigration and population movement.

[37] Media Terra conference in Rome

The conference participants examined the role and services provided by the Natural Disasters Observatory in the SE Mediterranean Basin and were given a preview of the Media Terra programme portal, with details on natural disasters in the Mediterranean, scheduled to be ready by next month.

A special emphasis was placed on the desertification phenomenon and the forest fires that constitute a serious threat for all Mediterranean countries.

Italy, the conference's host country, presented its civil protection plans and the measures it takes to ensure swift reaction in the case of an eruption by one of its three active volcanoes (Vesuvius, Etna, Stromboli).

[38] Coalition (SYN) party calls for dialogue on climate change

During a press conference, SYN leader Alekos Alavanos stressed that the government could not remain "silent and not take a stand on this issue".

Alavanos and the party's sector-head for environmental issues Mihalis Papayiannakis said this debate should discuss a progressive reduction in dependency on fossil fuels, such as coal, lignite, oil and natural gas, intensive energy conservation efforts, a decisive swing toward developing renewable energy sources and support for employing bioclimatic architecture in public and private buildings.

They stressed the need to change economic policy tools to include criteria linked to fighting climate change. In this context, they called for favourable treatment of new green technologies in the auto industry, a boosting of EU environmental policies, especially regulation of greenhouse gas emissions, and greatly restricting the use of cars, especially in urban centres.

The party also called for a stricter policy of water conservation by both agriculture and households, with rates differentiated according to consumption levels, and the introduction in the law of 'environmental crimes'.

[39] Greek Youth Conference on physical sciences in Kalabaka

The conference is placed within the framework of the activities of the World Federation of Physics Students and its main objective is to voice the youth viewpoint on different scientific issues while forming a framework of proposals for the promotion of scientific research in Greece.

[40] Policeman charged with murder for fatal shooting of robber

The police report said that the officer and his partner were at a fastfood restaurant when the robbery took place and pursued the two robbers as they tried to escape on foot. According to his own testimony, he was forced to open fire after one of the two robbers trained his gun on his partner.

The case has been referred to an examining magistrate.

[41] International meeting on European Police Systems

The international meeting, to be attended by 45 officials from 21 European Union member-states, will focus on a study of European police systems and the way of coordinating action and improving security provided by police services in member-states.

CEPOL has been a service of the European Commission since January 1, 2006, while a meeting of police academies had been held in Athens in November 2006, in the framework of CEPOL, with the purpose of promoting coordination and closer cooperation between the police forces of European countries.

[42] Greek Police Chief meets SG of Union of Greek Banks

During the meeting, a review was made of 2006 regarding crimes against banks, such as robberies, attacks with fire-bombs, damages and fraud through the method of skimming. The two men also discussed the measures being taken for the confrontation of these crimes.

[43] Police free woman held captive in stable, arrests announced

Authorities reportedly found the woman bound and half-naked in a dreadful state.

The four suspects are charged with several felonies related to the incident. The victim was reportedly forced into prostitution after the suspects smuggled her into Greece on the premise of finding her legal employment.

The village was identified as Adendro, in Thessaloniki prefecture.

[44] Justice minister addresses seminar on 'administering of justice'

In his address, Papaligouras said:"In the context of today's global environment, the exchange of experiences and knowledge for the implementation of law and the protection of human rights, within the framework of our country's legal system, contributes decisively in the creation of prerequisites for peace, stability and progress of our peoples."

[45] Armed bank robbery in Thessaloniki

Police later announced that the loot from the heist came to 30,460 euros, of which 17,000 was taken from a customer that was in the process of making deposit.

A manhunt has been launched to find the perpetrators.

[46] Arson attack against National Bank branch in Exarchia

A cafeteria in the area has been searched, while over 70 people have been questioned by police to ascertain whether they were connected in any way with the attack.

The attack occurred shortly after 7 p.m. when a group of youths who, seeing a female guard open blinds to allow an employee in, stormed in and ordered people inside to notify the building's occupants to come down into the street since they would be starting a fire.

The youths then detonated makeshift explosive devices composed of gas canisters contained in three backpacks, two of which exploded while the third remained intact and was removed by police to be examined for fingerprints.

The building's occupants rushed out into the street, with the exception of two who were removed with the assistance of the fire brigade.

Cyprus Affairs

[47] Cyprus will formally apply this week to enter the EMU

The Republic of Cyprus will formally apply this week to join the Economic and Monetary Union on January 1st, 2008, said here Monday Finance Minister Michalis Sarris.

The formal application letter will be sent within the next days to the Commissioner for Economic and Monetary Affairs and the Governor of the European System of Central Banks, Sarris told the press.

The minister added that the application would be followed by an assessment of the island's economy by the EU institutions, in March and April.

"We fully meet the criteria for accession to the eurozone", Sarris said.

Furthermore, Sarris stressed the need to maintain the high growth rates of the Cypriot economy.

He said that it is important that the House of Representatives ratifies this March the legislation regarding the legal convergence of Cyprus with the eurozone, ''which is necessary for the assesement of the Cypriot economy''.

''Our government strongly believes that Cyprus' accession to the eurozone is as much important, maybe even more important than our accession to the EU," the minster added.

He called upon the media to contribute to the efforts to inform the public on the new currency and to minimize doubts regarding the adoption of the single European currency.

On his part, Governor of the Central Bank Christodoulos Christodoulou reassured that Cyprus fulfills the Maastricht criteria for accession to the eurozone.

"If we are cautious and prudent, we will be able to enter the eurozone with ease", Christodoulou said.

According to the economic prospects for 2007, the actual rate of growth of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is expected to range between 3,7-3,8%, inflation is set to slow down, public deficit is anticipated to be about 1,6% of the GDP, provided that the purification of public finances continues steadily and public debt is set to drop to 60,5% of the GDP in 2007.

[48] Cyprus application to join EMU to be evaluated according to Maastricht criteria

The assessment of Cyprus' application to join the eurozone will be carried out on the basis of the economic criteria provided by the Maastricht Treaty, EU Commissioner for Economic and Monetary Affairs Joaquin Almunia's spokeswoman, Amelia Torres, has said.

Torres noted that the accession of a member state to the Economic and Monetary Union (EMU) is determined by the provisions of the Maastricht Treaty, and the member states decide on the basis of the reports issued by the European Commission and the European Central Bank, that have only a financial content.

[49] Cyprus constituent part of UNESCO Convention on Cultural Expression

The Republic of Cyprus has become a constituent part of the UNESCO Convention for the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expression.

The Convention aims at safeguarding, on a national and international level, conditions that allow free interaction among cultures, and the cultivation of intercultural dialogue and mutual respect.

It also provides for the recognition of cultural activities and of goods and services as a vehicle of identity, values and meaning and it furthermore affirms the sovereign right of the states to take simultaneous measures to protect and promote the diversity of cultural expression on their territory.

According to an official news bulletin released today, the House of Representatives passed on 7 December 2006 a bill regarding the Convention, which was tabled by the Ministry of Education and Culture.

On 19 December 2006, Cyprus' Permanent Representative to UNESCO submitted the ratifying document to UNESCO's Director on behalf of the Republic of Cyprus.

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