Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English, 07-03-20

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

CONTENTS

[01] Premier confers with interior minister over absentee vote for expatriates

[02] Interior minister satisfied with reforms in public administration

[03] Greece, Italy sign political cooperation and consultations Protocol

[04] PASOK leader says 'time for the people to speak'

[05] Papandreou concludes tour of Serres prefecture

[06] SI leader holds telephone discussion with Bulgarian PM

[07] Government stresses PM's full confidence in Tsitouridis

[08] TEADY board president Agapios Simeoforidis resigns

[09] PASOK, KKE regarding investment of pension fund reserves

[10] Minister to sue 'Kosmos tou Ependiti' newspaper

[11] Gov't refers to Sarkozy comment over Greek deficit figure

[12] Cabinet meeting on Tuesday to discuss economic ministry issues

[13] Deputy FM Evripidis Stylianidis visiting Morocco

[14] Employment minister on European Union's Green Paper

[15] Basiakos cites Athens' interest in land protection, sustainable growth

[16] Greece expects investments of 2.5 bln euros in renewable energy sources by 2010

[17] Papoulias briefed over signed pipeline deal by minister

[18] Tourism minister, sector delegation in Russia this week

[19] Bank of Greece to pay 2.90 euros per share dividend

[20] Marfin Popular Bank buys Ukraine's MTB for 137.4 mln US dollars

[21] Minoan Lines reports improved 2006 results

[22] Imports of cheap light bulbs up 29.6 pct in 2005, report

[23] Vioter SA to issue 7-mln-euro bond loan

[24] SATO Group says 2006 EBITDA up 34.8 pct

[25] Additional Lufthansa flight

[26] ASE suspends trading in Gener SA

[27] ASE to revise its rules of operation in the next two months

[28] Greek stocks move 0.76 pct higher on Monday

[29] ADEX closing report

[30] Greek bond market closing report

[31] Foreign Exchange Rates - Tuesday

[32] Praxiteles exhibition inaugurated at Louvre Museum

[33] LMU event on Parthenon Marbles

[34] Painting exhibition at Hellenic Club of Canberra

[35] Archbishop says 6th grade history book 'falsifies' history

[36] Athens, chamber sign MoC to aid homeless

[37] Hiker found dead after falling off cliff in Kalavrita

[38] Free computer and language seminars for immigrants

[39] Two foreign nationals arrested in ATM scam

[40] Athens mayor and Panathinaikos club president discuss new stadium

[41] Partly cloudy on Tuesday

[42] The Monday edition of Athens' newspapers at a glance

[43] President: meeting now with Talat would neutralize July agreement

[44] German EU presidency calls on Turkey to avoid threats against Cyprus

[45] Interior minister warns foreign companies not to engage in illegal activities Politics

[01] Premier confers with interior minister over absentee vote for expatriates

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Pavlopoulos said that the top issue discussed was the draft law providing for a postal (absentee) vote for the Greeks living abroad, which has already been forwarded to party leaders and to the World Council of Hellenes Abroad (SAE) for consultation in order to be tabled in parliament after Easter and passed before the end of the current parliament session.

The interior minister stressed that this was an important draft bill that does not take anybody by surprise, given that it will enter into effect after the next elections that take place in 2008, roughly in 2011 or 2012, as stipulated by law.

E-governance was also discussed with the prime minister, with an emphasis on citizens' service and cutting red tape.

Pavlopoulos further briefed the prime minister on the Prefectural Administration code under preparation, which will be passed in the current parliament session.

The minister stated that they discussed the country's administrative restructuring and local administration financing issues.

The interior minister commented that, in view of the EU's 4th Community Support Framework (CSF), municipalities and prefectures should be further assisted in addition to administrative restructuring and infrastructures, noting that important steps have already been made and the funds earmarked for local administration have more than quadrupled.

[02] Interior minister satisfied with reforms in public administration

The event was held in the presence of New Democracy party cadres and deputies, as well as Deputy Interior and Public Administration Minister Apostolos Andreoulakos.

Pavlopoulos referred to respect due to the founder of the New Democracy party, Constantine Karamanlis, on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the ethnarch's birth and said that great politicians are judged by the decisions they take without thinking of the political cost, but only of the interests of the country and pointed out that it would be good for them to be honoured during their lives as well and not only after their passing.

The minister said that many considerable steps were taken in all sectors during these past three years and a coordinated policy was applied with targeted corrective interventions.

He also pointed out that "the difficulties lurking in such an undertaking were and continue to be many, because they entail confrontations with interests and practices and mentalities that had become consolidated."

On the question of local administration, Pavlopoulos reiterated that for the first time local administration bodies will be called on to manage, in the framework of the 4th Community Support Framework, about 36.5 billion euros, together with national funds, and the government is doing all it can to prepare the infrastructure required to absorb them in a better way. He also referred to the successful Thiseas programme, the ratification of the Municipalities and Communities Code, with the consent of the Central Union of Municipalities and Communities of Greece (KEDKE), as well as to the preparation of the Prefectural Administration Code.

Lastly, regarding issues of "corruption" raised by the main opposition party, Pavlopoulos said that justice will decide on them and stressed that the government, with the auditing apparatuses it has enacted, is highlighting all these issues, while previous governments had covered them up in the past.

[03] Greece, Italy sign political cooperation and consultations Protocol

Greece and Italy on Monday signed a Protocol for political cooperation and regular consultations between the two governments, during a meeting in Rome between Greece's visiting foreign minister Dora Bakoyannis and her Italian counterpart Massimo D'Alema.

During their meeting, the two ministers also discussed the European Constitutional Treaty, the Balkans, the Middle East, Lebanon, Iraq, Greek-Turkish affairs and migration.

Speaking to reporters after the talks, Bakoyannis said that Greece and Italy had very close relations of cooperation, which were reaffirmed by the signing of the Protocol, as also stated by D'Alema.

"We do not have much to discuss regarding our bilateral issues because, simply, they have been resolved," Bakoyannis said.

"Thus, we were given the opportunity to discuss the European prospect, which is very important. We -- Greece and Italy -- agreed that we must back the European Constitution and that the period of study must be wound up at least by the European Parliament elections, and the decisions taken on the Euro-Constitution," she added.

Regarding the Balkans, she said that Rome and Athens "believe that we are working jointly for their European prospect", adding that all the countries of the Balkans, including Serbia, were included in that strategy.

"In Kosovo, we aspire to a viable solution that will strengthen regional security and stability, a solution with which both the directly involved sides can live with," she continued.

On the Middle East, Greece and Italy were again in agreement that the Mecca Agreement "was an important step foward", Bakoyannis said, adding that "the government of Abu Mazen (Mahmoud Abbas, president of the Palestinian Authority) needs encouragement to proceed in these directions, which Europe, but also the international community, desire", and noting that "a significant symbollism would be for the issue of the abducted soldiers to be resolved".

Bakoyannis further said that she and D'Alema had also agreed that better coordination must be achieved in the monitoring the the EU's external sea borders through greater utilisation of Frontex (the European Agency for the Management of Operational Cooperation at the External Borders of the Member States of the European Union).

Greece and Italy, she continued, are Mediterranean countries, countries that know the wider region very well and see many of the problems in the region, either in Lebanon, or in Iraq, or the Palestinian issue, "from the same viewpoint".

She thanked D'Alema for his hospitality and expressed certainty that the cooperation would continue even more strengthened.

Asked whether Greek-Turkish affairs had been discussed, Bakoyannis said that although she briefed D'Alema on the violations of Greek national airspace by Turkish military aircraft over the Aegean, "it was not one of the main topics of discussion".

D'Alema expressed pleasure at welcoming Bakoyannis, "a lady of acknowledged repute and a great fried of our country with whom, chiefly in the Euro-Atlantic fora, we cooperate with great convergence of views and with a common commitment on the major issues we face".

He said they discussed the prospects of Europe, noting that Italy and Greece were two of the most committed countries in the defence of the European Constitutional Treaty and the modernising principles it contained.

He said they also discussed the Balkans, adding that the common desire of the two countries is to encourage a solution supported by both sides involved regarding the final status of Kosovo, a solution that would be achieved through a European commitment, which would facilitate dialogue between Serbia and Kosovo, in order to reach a solution that would not be an indignity for anyone and would not create new difficulties in the Balkans.

D'Alema said they also discussed the difficult scenaria of the crisis in the Middle East, adding that their assessments converged on the fact that the Palestinian government of national unity was definitely a new element.

"Despite the fact that this government did nor arise precisely out of the formula we had hoped for, nevertheless it would be a mistake to close the door to this new situation. Quite the contrary, we must encourage the Palestinian government to be consistent, immediately taking the first actions in order for all forms of violence to cease, beginning with the release of the abducted Israeli soldier," he said.

The two ministers also exchanged views on the situation in Iraq and Lebanon, as well as on Greek-Italian bilareral cooperation on policies concerning migration, confronting illegal immigration with all the human dramas it entailed in the Mediterranean.

Synopsizing, he stressed that the talks were "very positive", proof of which was the signing of the Protocol of political cooperation and regular consultations between the two governments. "In fact, one of prime minister Romano Prodi's first visits was to Greece," the Italian foreign minister noted.

"I believe we can speak of a relationship between two large Mediterranean countries that is founded on our great friendship and the intensive cooperation between the two countries," D'Alema concluded.

Bakoyannis was received afterwards by President of the Republic Giorgio Napolitano, while in the afternoon she will have separate meetings with the leaders of Italy's bicameral parliament, lower house Chamber of Deputies president Fausto Bertinotti, and upper house Senate of the Republic president Franco Marini.

The Greek foreign minister was on a one-day visit to Rome, from where she departed directly for a US visit that includes a meeting with UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon in New York on Tuesday and US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice on Thursday in Washington.

US visit, itinerary

Foreign ministry spokesman George Koumoutsakos said Bakoyannis' US talks would cover a wide range of issues, with the focus on Kosovo and the Balkans, the FYROM name issue, and developmens in the Cyprus issue.

Bakoyannis will also have meetings on Thursday with US Senate majority leader Harry Reid (D-Nevada) and minority leader Mitch McConnell (R-Kentucky), after which she will attend a lunch in hour honour hosted by Speaker of the House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi (D-California).

While in Washington, Bakoyannis will further have meetings with US National Security Advisor Steven Hadley and the US president's Assistant for Homeland Security director Frances FragosTownsend, with whom she will discuss developments on the visa waiver issue, which Koumoutsakos said was being followed at high level, given that constant progress was being made.

On Friday, Bakoyannis will take part in a special event at the White House marking Greek National Indepdence, which will also be attended by US President George Bush.

[04] PASOK leader says 'time for the people to speak'

Papandreou severely criticised employment minister Savvas Tsitouridis in the case of the management of the Civil Servants' Auxiliary Insurance Fund (TEADY) reserves by the Akropolis stock brokerage, at the same time casting blame on prime minister Costas Karamanlis as well for being a "simple observer".

"An entire mechanism was set up with the Funds' reserves, with the social insurance recipients' monies, with your money, so that some individuals would receive commissions...Parasites and party middle-men," Papandreou said, adding that this affair was not only a matter of justice, but also a huge political scandal, on which the government was obliged to shoulder its political responsibility for the truth to shine and for the guilty parties to face justice.

"The New Democracy (ND) government is the worst government the country has ever had," Papandreou said.

He accused the government of "having no shame", saying "they came (to power) under the banner of transparancy, and the stench of the scandals becomes more stifling every day".

"The plethora of scandals, which are falling like rain, convince us that the corruption is not a chance event. It is a gang that considers the state its own, booty for pillaging," Papandreou said, adding that he was prepared to "puthis foot down" against such practices and perceptions, as prime minister, considering PASOK's electoral victory a certainty.

The PASOK leader attacked the government policy in all sectors and, with respect to farm issues, said that "agricultural development minister Evangelos Bassiakos, as if he lives on another planet, informs the prime minister that the agricultural income has increased", and charged that the delay in the payment of subsidies to farmers in Serres prefecture was "unprecedented".

He pledged that the PASOK programme would be implemented in full and, to the question of whether the money to do so existed, Papandreou said: "The money exists, its only that Mr. Karamanlis prefers to give it to the few and powerfu".

Papandreou pledged "a 550 euros monthly pension for every farmer, and 950 euros monthly for each (farmer) couple", a new policy in the agricultural sector that will attract young farmers, a new policy on farmland that will give the land to those who cultivate it and give the periphery a developmental momentum, extension of the EKAS (low pension benefit) to benefit another 300,000 pensioners, 2,000 euros for each family for every child born and 1,000 euros in a time investments account in the name of the newborn, and a doubling of the number of daycare centres.

[05] Papandreou concludes tour of Serres prefecture

Papandreou noted that the prefectural council hall is named after Constantine Karamanlis, speaking a day before the 100th anniversary of the former prime minister and president's birth, underlining the determination he displayed in pushing through Greece's membership into the then European Economic Community.

Finally, Papandreou referred to the region's problems and prospects following Romania's and Bulgaria's accession into the European Union.

He said the prefecture should use its comparative advantages, adding that Greece should not invest in a "cheap labour" model, but should instead continue to invest in human resources and quality of life.

In a later development, Papandreou wrapped up his two-day tour of the prefecture with a visit to the village of Orini, where he was declared honorary citizen.

[06] SI leader holds telephone discussion with Bulgarian PM

Addressing the prefectural council of Serres, Papandreou who is also the president of Socialist International, stated that they discussed developments in Kosovo and UN special envoy Martti Ahtisaari's proposal advocating independence for Kosovo "under international supervision", stressing that the issue should be handled with great caution to maintain calm in the region.

Papandreou and Stanishev also discussed the conditions created after Bulgaria's EU accession. The Bulgarian prime minister assured the PASOK leader that his country wishes to have close cooperation with Greece and particularly the prefecture of Serres, an entry gate to Greece for Bulgarians.

[07] Government stresses PM's full confidence in Tsitouridis

"Decisions concerning [social security] funds are taken by the fund boards and these decisions can be checked at any time if they are legal," Antonaros said. Regarding the decisions of four pension funds to invest in a bond loan of 280 million euros issued by the Greek State, he stressed that "all the relevant decisions were taken unanimously and in accordance with the existing legal framework."

According to the spokesman, however, the issue of TEADY and that of the bond loan were separate:

"As soon as the issue with TEADY arose, without any delay, Mr. Savvas Tsitouridis asked for an emergency financial audit. The audit was completed and an announcement was issued by the minister. At the same time, precisely because the issue concerned a specific brokerage firm, Mr. Tsitouridis asked for an emergency audit for other pension funds that appear to have had transactions with the specific firm since 2001 and these are still underway," Antonaros said.

He also underlined that the minister had asked for the resignation of the TEADY board after confirming deficiencies or irregularities in their handling of the fund's affairs, while stressing that "anyone who has behaved illegally will incur the penalties of the law".

The actions of specific individuals did not in any way reflect the government, which operated with absolute transparency, he added.

Regarding the issue of the 'secret' bond, as it was described in sections of the media, the spokesman said that this did not involve any irregularity and was done in accordance with existing laws and what applied in the market, as well as fully conforming to the rules governing transactions.

"The bond was issued for 280 million euros and at the same time bought by the [social security] funds for 280 million euros," he told reporters.

He criticised main opposition PASOK MP Vasso Papandreou of "trying to create false impressions by talking of 300 million euros" in connection with the bond, saying that these "were groundless claims and unfounded accusations that we return to PASOK".

Antonaros also denied Papandreou's suggestion that legal procedures had been flouted in the issue of the bond, noting that similar issues had been made under former PASOK governments.

"The height of annual borrowing then, through private placements outside the Organisation for the Management of Public Debt (ODDHX) that are not even recorded in the budget, was 1,911 million euros in 1999, 2,355 million euros in 2000, 1,102 million euros in 2001, 2,130 million euros in 2002 and 1,090 million euros in 2003. Is Mrs Papandreou implying then, that in these years some people were paid oversized commissions," Antonaros asked.

He denied that the pension funds had been instructed to invest in the specific bond by the government.

Meanwhile, in response to the latest developments concerning the affair, opposition parties on Monday leveled accusations of a cover-up against the government and Tsitouridis.

Main opposition PASOK's Maria Damanaki, in charge of employment and social protection in the party's Parliamentary Council, stressed that all PASOK's accusations so far had been fully confirmed and what remained to be seen was the government's reaction and who would accept what she described as "huge political responsibilities".

More general criticism came from the Communist Party of Greece (KKE) in an announcement, which accused the government of "mocking the workers with its attempts to hide and deny its responsibilities for the continued looting of pension fund reserves".

"The big scandal is the continued exploitation of the reserves over the years by New Democracy and PASOK governments and by plutocracy," the party said, while accusing PASOK of being equally to blame for the problems.

KKE additionally criticised trade unionists on the pension fund board for agreeing and participating in the loss-making transactions at the civil servants' auxiliary pension fund.

The accusations against Tsitouridis concerned the scandal that arose over the purchase of an over-priced bond issue by TEADY through the Athens' brokerage firm Acropolis AXEPEY, which is accused of skimming a large profit from the deal.

On Friday night, after receiving a report on the specifics of the transaction, Tsitouridis demanded the resignation of TEADY's entire board, which had unanimously approved the purchase. Apart from the president appointed by the government and representatives of six ministries, the board also includes five representatives of the civil servants' union ADEDY and of the civil service pensioners' union.

[08] TEADY board president Agapios Simeoforidis resigns

Tsitouridis had requested the resignations of all of TEADY's board members, following the issuing of a report on Friday night that had probed possible responsibilities in the management of the fund's reserves and relations with the Akropolis stock exchange company.

[09] PASOK, KKE regarding investment of pension fund reserves

Main opposition PASOK's Maria Damanaki, in charge of employment and social protection in the party's Parliamentary Council, stressed that all PASOK's accusations so far had been fully confirmed and what remained to be seen was the government's reaction.

"Will Mr. Tsitouridis continue acting like a peacock? Does the prime minister back his minister? There are huge political responsibilities. Who is going to accept them," Damanaki said in response to questions.

Stressing that full transparency was now of the utmost importance, the MP also stressed that information on the full liquid assets of the social insurance funds had not yet been made public, despite repeated PASOK requests.

More general criticism came from the Communist Party of Greece (KKE) in an announcement, which accused the government of "mocking the workers with its attempts to hide and deny its responsibilities for the continued looting of pension fund reserves".

"The big scandal is the continued exploitation of the reserves over the years by New Democracy and PASOK governments and by plutocracy," the party said, while accusing PASOK of being equally to blame for the problems.

KKE additionally criticised trade unionists on the pension fund board for agreeing and participating in the loss-making transactions at the civil servants' auxiliary pension fund.

The accusations against Tsitouridis concerned the scandal that arose over the purchase of an over-priced bond issue by the fund through the Athens' brokerage firm Acropolis AXEPEY, which is accused of skimming a large profit from the deal.

On Friday night, after receiving a report on the specifics of the transaction, Tsitouridis demanded the resignation of the pension fund's entire board, which had unanimously approved the purchase. Apart from the president appointed by the government and representatives of six ministries, the board also includes five representatives of the civil servants' union ADEDY and of the civil service pensioners' union.

[10] Minister to sue 'Kosmos tou Ependiti' newspaper

This led with a quote from ND MP Costas Kiltidis, who later denied making the statement, calling Tsitouridis the 'Koutsogiorgas of New Democracy'. This was a reference to a former PASOK minister that was tried and convicted on corruption charges in the early '90s.

Tsitouridis is demanding compensation of one million euros from the paper for damages resulting from the headline, which if awarded will be used to found a centre in Kilkis.

[11] Gov't refers to Sarkozy comment over Greek deficit figure

Sarkozy reportedly said during a nationwide television appearance in France on Sunday that "we know how Greece entered the euro zone; we know that the deficit they declared below 3 percent was closer to 6 percent."

Speaking during his regular press briefing, alternate government spokesman Evangelos Antonaros, in fact, disputed the 6-percent figure.

"It (deficit) was higher. He (Sarkozy) is not well-informed (in this case). But, no matter, these things are in the past. What's important are the results from the prudent economic policy implemented by today's government, which has decreased the deficit to where it stands today, and as you know it is now significantly below 3 percent; the Greek economy has stabilized; unemployment has been significantly reduced; imports have improved and the investment climate has changed for the better vis-à-vis Greece. These are the positive results that will benefit and are benefiting all Greek citizens," Antonaros said.

Asked whether Sarkozy will, if elected president of France, consider the Greek side as "untrustworthy", the spokesman succinctly replied:

"No, because Greece currently does not have a untrustworthy government, as it did in the past."

[12] Cabinet meeting on Tuesday to discuss economic ministry issues

Financial News

[13] Deputy FM Evripidis Stylianidis visiting Morocco

Deputy Foreign Minister Evripidis Stylianidis held talks on Monday with Moroccan Energy and Mines Minister Mohamed Boutaleb, who appealed to Greek renewable energy sources companies to do business with Moroccan firms.

The Greek deputy foreign minister said that "Greece being among the first to invest in this sector and help Morocco its its effort to increase energy produced by renewable energy sources to 10 percent over the next five years, from 1 percent it is today, is an objective of ours."

He added that for this purpose representatives from the Renewable Energy Sources Centre will be signing a cooperation agreement on Tuesday with the corresponding Moroccan organisation and will be conveying to Greek businessmen the potential existing in the region.

Stylianidis, who is carrying out a two-day working visit to Morocco, held consecutive meetings with the Moroccan industry, trade and economy minister, the energy and mines minister and the overseas trade minister.

[14] Employment minister on European Union's Green Paper

Tsitouridis expressed support for the European social model, referred to the relevant document by the nine European governments to the German Presidency and summed up Greece's answers to questions raised in the Green Paper, noting that protection for the weak pole in the labour relation, namely labour, must remain the main principle in labour law.

Economy and Finance Minister George Alogoskoufis, addressing the conference, stressed that the modernisation of labour legislation must take into consideration protection for working people and the adjustment of employment, to a satisfactory degree, to the new economic developments. He added that reforms are required that will overcome inflexibilities that undermine the economy.

The minister further mentioned the steady and measurable improvement in the economy and noted that social and political consensus is necessary, because decisions to be taken in the future will determine the future of the economy and of society to a great degree.

Main opposition Panhellenic Socialist Movement (PASOK) party deputy Maria Damanaki said that Greece's position regarding competitiveness dropped from the 17th to the 22nd place in the EU and underlined that the dialogue on "security with flexibility" has been minimal so far. She added that there is no balance between flexibility and security in the whole discussion, since the scales are bending dangerously in favour of flexibility.

[15] Basiakos cites Athens' interest in land protection, sustainable growth

Agriculture Development Minister Evangelos Basiakos represented Athens at Monday's EU farm ministers' council meeting here, where he again reiterated the Greek government's emphasis on greater protection of public health, consumers' rights and the production of higher quality and more nutritious agriculture products.

Along those lines, he said the Greek government increased the number of staff at regulatory bodies, affiliated health departments, laboratories etc.

Additionally, the Greek minister requested that the Council and relevant EU environment Commissioner Stavros Dimas urgently develop a Community-wide strategy for land protection and sustainable growth, and by extension, environmental protection for farm lands.

Finally, he warned that the Greek government was opposed to any concession by the EU over its Common Agriculture Policy during ongoing talks with the World Trade Organisation.

[16] Greece expects investments of 2.5 bln euros in renewable energy sources by 2010

The Greek minister said the decision was another step towards implementing a new energy policy and offering more access to Renewable Energy Sources in the country's energy balance. The decision also introduces, for the first time, production licenses for hybrid power stations, of particular importance to Greek islands.

Sioufas said the number of Renewable Energy Sources' projects which began operations in the last two years accounted for 50 percent of all projects launched in the previous decade and underlined that investments in Renewable Energy Source projects would total 2.5 billion euros by 2010.

[17] Papoulias briefed over signed pipeline deal by minister

In fact, Sioufas presented Papoulias with a copy of the signed agreement.

In statements afterwards, Sioufas underlined that the long-awaited tripartite pact -- 14 years in the making -- demonstrates the importance of national consensus on issues of strategic importance. As such, he praised all the intervening Greek administrations, reminding that Karolos Papoulias was foreign minister when the project was unveiled.

The Greek minister next travels for briefings to Evros prefecture -- in extreme northeastern Greece -- where Alexandropoulis, the pipeline's terminus, is located. He also noted that the agreement will be tabled in Parliament over the next few days.

In a related development, Sioufas on Monday signed a new licensing regulation for power production via renewable sources of energy. Among others, a drastic reduction in red-tape is envisioned as well as a new regime for licensing of "hybrid power plants", a particularly important prospect for Greece's numerous islands.

[18] Tourism minister, sector delegation in Russia this week

Palli-Petralia is scheduled to meet with Moscow Mayor Yuri Luzhkov as well as several major Russian tour operators, among others. A concert sponsored by the ministry is also scheduled at a music hall in the Russian capital.

[19] Bank of Greece to pay 2.90 euros per share dividend

The central bank said its net profits totaled 244.6 million euros last year, from 228.5 million in 2005, for an increase of 7.10 percent, while the bank reported the creation of an extraordinary reserve totaling 19 million euros.

Net income rose 36 percent to 830.9 million euros in 2006, from 610.8 million in 2005, while profits from financial transactions jumped to 362.2 million euros from 155.2 million euros over the same period, respectively, of which 204.4 million were swap transactions.

Net interest income eased slightly last year to 305.6 million euros from 311.9 million euros in 2005, while operating expenses rose by 11 percent to 358.6 million euros from 323.1 million euros over the same period, respectively.

The Bank of Greece said its total reserves in gold totaled 4.6 million onces (142.5 tons) worth 2.2 billion euros, up from 1.9 billion euros a year earlier.

[20] Marfin Popular Bank buys Ukraine's MTB for 137.4 mln US dollars

Under the deal, Marfin Popular Bank will also buy three leasing companies, associated with the Ukrainian bank, for 700,000 US dollars.

MTB was founded in 1993 and it is a universal bank enjoying all banking services' licenses. It is based in Odessa and operates a branch network of 86 units. MTB's equity capital (September 30, 2006 figures) totalled 34.1 million US dollars, its saving deposits were 156.2 million US dollars and its loan portfolio totalled 148.3 million US dollars. Deutsche Bank was Marfin Popular Bank's financial advisor to the purchase.

Completion of the purchase is subject to approval by the supervisory authorities in Cyprus and Ukraine.

[21] Minoan Lines reports improved 2006 results

Pre-tax, interest and amortization earnings (EBITDA) rose 9.6 pct to 61.4 million euros last year, from 56 million in 2005, including a profit of 11.2 million euros from the sale of H/S/F Ariadne Palace.

High fuel prices hit results for the second consecutive year, Minoan Lines said. Net, after-tax profits rose 7.4 pct to 18.3 million euros.

The board plans to pay a 0.135-euro per shared dividend to its shareholders.

Group turnover was 206.9 million euros and EBITDA 61.4 million euros, around parent levels for 2006. Consolidated net profits rose 22.7 pct to 21.6 million euros, while earnings per share rose to 0.30 euros from 0.25 in 2005.

Hellenic Seaways reported improved results for the year, with net profits totaling 10.1 million euros in 2006, from 2.0 million euros in 2005.

Minoan Lines said its bank borrowing fell to 365.6 million euros last year, down from 453.8 million in 2005.

[22] Imports of cheap light bulbs up 29.6 pct in 2005, report

The survey said that the Greek market's needs for light bulbs were exclusively covered by imports, totaling 41.5 million euros in 2005, down 2.9 pct from 2004. Import of light equipment rose by 165 million euros in the same year.

Hellastat said imports of light bulbs steadily fell by 8.0 pct annually in the last three years from 60.3 million units in 2003 to 50.7 million units in 2005, while average prices also fell from 1.65 euros in 2002 to 1.13 euros in 2005.

The survey said 90 pct of light equipment enterprises were profitable in 2005, although around 60 percent of all enterprises in the industry recorded lower results. The sector's gross profit margin improved to 27.3 pct in 2005 from 25.5 pct in 2004, while administration expenses fell to 7.9 pct of turnover from 8.4 pct over the same period, respectively.

[23] Vioter SA to issue 7-mln-euro bond loan

[24] SATO Group says 2006 EBITDA up 34.8 pct

Consolidated turnover totaled 77.3 million euros in 2006, up 4.3 pct from the previous year, while pre-tax, interest and amortization earnings (EBITDA) jumped 34.8 pct to 6.5 million euros, from 4.8 million over the same period, respectively.

Pre-tax and interest earnings (EBIT) soared 79.5 pct to 3.9 million euros, while gross profits rose 11.1 pct to 33.9 million euros in 2006. After tax and minorities profits, however, fell to 5.1 million euros last year from 6.2 million in 2005, reflecting increased tax burdens. The Group's gross profit margin improved to 43.9 pct in 2006 from 41.2 pct in 2005.

SATO Group said its subsidiaries in Germany and Turkey reported improved 2006 results, while sales abroad rose 8.7 pct accounting for 30 pct of Group sales. The board plans to pay a 0.03-euros per share dividend to its shareholders.

[25] Additional Lufthansa flight

An Airbus A320 will be used for Lufthansa's new LH3347 flight.

[26] ASE suspends trading in Gener SA

Gener's shares were traded in the "under surveillance" category since October 16, 2006.

[27] ASE to revise its rules of operation in the next two months

The decision was taken in consultation with the Capital Markets Commission and taking in mind recommendations made by the Association of Listed Enterprises.

An ASE announcement said the revision would cover all rules on categorisation of listed companies in view of international trends and developments.

[28] Greek stocks move 0.76 pct higher on Monday

Sector indices ended higher with the Financial Services (1.89 pct), Technology (1.64 pct) and Construction (1.60 pct) scoring the biggest percentage gains of the day, while the Media (1.23 pct), Food-Beverage (0.62 pct) and Travel (0.57 pct) suffering losses.

The Big Cap rose 0.82 pct, the Mid Cap ended 0.79 pct higher and the Small Cap index ended 0.72 pct up.

Alpha Leasing (20.0 pct), AEGEK (10.77 pct) and ELBE (7.34 pct) were top gainers, while Tria Alpha (18.88 pct), Vivere (12.21 pct) and Plias (9.3 pct) were top losers.

Broadly, advancers led decliners by 139 to 98 with another 62 issues unchanged.

Sector indices ended as follows:

Insurance: +0.53%

Industrials: +0.48%

Commercial: -0.09%

Construction: +1.60%

Media: -1.23%

Oil & Gas: +0.92%

Personal & Household: +1.00%

Raw Materials: +0.34%

Travel & Leisure: -0.57%

Technology: +1.64%

Telecoms: +1.28%

Banks: +1.01%

Food & Beverages: -0.62%

Health: +0.83%

Utilities: -0.28%

Chemicals: +1.30%

Financial Services: +1.89%

The stocks with the highest turnover were National Bank, Alpha Bank, OPAP and Piraeus Bank.

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

Alpha Bank: 22.00

ATEbank: 3.82

Public Power Corp (PPC): 19.70

HBC Coca Cola: 31.28

Hellenic Petroleum: 10.56

Emporiki Bank: 21.50

National Bank of Greece: 40.40

EFG Eurobank Ergasias: 29.46

Intralot: 24.40

Cosmote: 22.10

OPAP: 28.50

OTE: 20.94

Titan Cement Company: 40.00

[29] ADEX closing report

The June contract on the FTSE 20 index was traded at a discount of 3.01 pct while on the FTSE 40 index prices were traded at a discount of 1.23 percent.

Volume in futures contracts on the FTSE 20 index totaled 9,292 contracts worth 110.789 million euros, with 30,689 open positions in the market, while on the FTSE 40 index volume was 608 contracts worth 16.808 million euros, with 1,331 open positions.

Volume in futures contracts on equities totaled 5,274 contracts worth 4.043 million euros with investment interest focusing on National Bank's contracts (904), followed by PPC (718), Alpha Bank (355), Intracom (684), ATEbank (335), GEK (483) and Mytilineos (241).

Volume in stock repos was 1,219 contracts and in reverse stock repos 3,148 contracts.

[30] Greek bond market closing report

The 10-year benchmark bond (July 20, 2017) was the most heavily traded security with a turnover of 995 million euros, while the yield spread between the 10-year Greek and German bonds was 0.23 percent. The Greek bond yielded 4.18 pct and the German Bund 3.95 pct.

In the domestic interbank market, interest rates were largely unchanged. National Bank's overnight rate was 3.83 pct, the two-day rate was also 3.83 pct, the one-month rate was 3.86 pct and the 12-month rate at 4.11 pct.

[31] Foreign Exchange Rates - Tuesday

U.S. dollar 1.340

Pound sterling 0.688

Danish kroner 7.507

Swedish kroner 9.365

Japanese yen 157.42

Swiss franc 1.623

Norwegian kroner 8.213

Cyprus pound 0.584

Canadian dollar 1.575

Australian dollar 1.676

General News

[32] Praxiteles exhibition inaugurated at Louvre Museum

French Culture Minister Renaud Donnedieu de Vabres and his Greek counterpart George Voulgarakis inaugurated the Praxiteles exhibition at the Louvre Museum in Paris on Monday evening.

The exhibition will run through June 18th at the museum's Napoleon Hall.

The exhibition highlights the myth and history of the famous sculptor of antiquity Praxiteles, inspiring artists for centuries.

The French culture minister said the exhibition "breathes in a European way and unites the Europeans" and expressing his thanks to Greece for lending works to enable the exhibition to be carried out.

Voulgarakis congratulated the Louvre Museum for its brave decision to exhibit the considerable number of sculptures it possesses, that are attributed to the famous sculptor, and to collect unique works from big museums in Europe.

The Louvre exhibition sketches the portrait of the ancient Athenian sculptor, revives dialogue on his work in the scientific community and invites the public to discover the spirit of Praxiteles.

A part of the exhibition will be transferred to the National Archaeological Museum in Athens in the summer, where the public will be able to admire the Marathon Youth, who was not moved to the Louvre exhibition.

[33] LMU event on Parthenon Marbles

The event included a photography exhibition titled "Marbles" by photographer A. Papapostolou, addresses by Dr. Matthew Dillon, professor of Classics and Archaeology at LMU on the Parthenon and journalst Christos Constantopoulos on Greece's campaign for the return of the Marbles from Britain, the restoration works ongoing on the Acropolis site and the new Acropolis Museum, and the screening of a 35-minute documentary "The Pheidias Legacy" which was a co-production with ANA-MPA.

On Friday, the Hellenic Cultural Centre will organise a second screening of the documentary, with an address by Constantopoulos, in the Cypress Room at St. Spyridon Church in San Diego.

[34] Painting exhibition at Hellenic Club of Canberra

According to reports, the exhibition will focus on the European culture through 60 paintings signed by artists from a total of 14 countries.

[35] Archbishop says 6th grade history book 'falsifies' history

The head of the Autocephalous Greek Orthodox Church, who made the statement while visiting the facilities of the Panhellenic Association of Greek Gypsies, said that reactions to the book "originate in the Nation's collective consciousness".

Regarding with the Church's role in preserving the Greek language and letters during the 400-year Ottoman occupation of Greece and the book's failure to mention the "Secret School" of Greek tradition, the Archbishop stressed that this was an issue "resolved by history and tradition".

"Realistically, it existed, where there was no opportunity to run schools that had the approval of the Turks," he said.

[36] Athens, chamber sign MoC to aid homeless

"To turn a blind eye to obvious problems is not an indicator of high civic-mindedness. When city lights go out, our work day ends, the daily routine comes to a close, some of us will not go home. Not because they don't want to, but because they don't have a home," Kaklamanis said, adding that the city has designed and will establish a "House of the Homeless", with modern infrastructure, hygiene facilities, washing machines, a day centre, and a shelter for crisis periods, such as a heat wave or cold snap.

[37] Hiker found dead after falling off cliff in Kalavrita

The victim and another three hikers from the city of Patras were on a trekking expedition, when the man fell off a cliff after losing his balance.

An investigation is underway by the Fire Brigade to determine the exact causes of the accident.

[38] Free computer and language seminars for immigrants

A total of 30 volunteers teach computer and language courses, Greek and English, to roughly 500 people. Operational expenses are covered by the Labor Institute and donations.

[39] Two foreign nationals arrested in ATM scam

The alleged culprits attempted to make a withdrawal by using a special keypad and camera installed on the back side of the cash machine in order to go unnoticed by customers and bank employees.

A police investigation is underway to determine if the two were able to withdraw cash from other ATMs and whether they had expanded their illegal activities to other cities as well.

A laptop, a miniature camera and other electronic equipment were seized during a police search in their car and hotel room.

Soccer

[40] Athens mayor and Panathinaikos club president discuss new stadium

In statements afterward, Kaklamanis said the project had two aims: to improve the quality of life of Athens residents and build a new stadium for the city's historic soccer side, stressing that the second was "the heart of the project".

"In this affair we have first of all the unstinting support of the government, right up to the level of the prime minister. The municipality has every reason to be a direct supporter of this effort and thirdly the Panathinaikos 'family'," Kaklamanis said.

The mayor announced that a working team was set up with Giannakopoulos to discuss problems related to Panathinaikos Amateur - the section of the club not linked to the professional football team - and try to find solutions, which would have its first meeting on Wednesday.

"We agreed with Mr. Giannakopoulos that we would not set up a committee that would discuss ad infinitum but must have reached some conclusion by the end of the month.

Weather forecast

[41] Partly cloudy on Tuesday

[42] The Monday edition of Athens' newspapers at a glance

ADESMEFTOS TYPOS: "Sweep operation against the night 'bouncers' - The operation commenced in Patras".

APOGEVMATINI: "Papandreou's (main opposition PASOK leader) frenzy - The PASOK leader feeding climate of intolerence and division".

AVRIANI: "Elections express counter to the stench of the scandals - Government gives political response to the operation aimed against its top officials".

CHORA: "More than 13,000 jobs for tenured and seasonal wworkers - For thousands of unemployed degree-holders and non-degree-holders".

ELEFTHERI ORA: "Finance deputy minister Petros Doukas spoke about the case that 'reeks' and...the bonds point to scam".

ELEFTHEROS: "Mudslinging without bounds against government officials - They've put employment minister Tsitouridis in the target-sights for annihilation".

ELEFTHEROS TYPOS: "Cheaper insurance premiums for cars - Bill introduces rules on the insurance market".

ELEFTHEROTYPIA: "The bonds...divide - Panic in the government - They fear new revelations".

ESTIA: "The 'middle space' syndrome - Torpedo against progress in France and Europe".

ETHNOS: "End to guard duty at the military camps, following worrisome spate of suicides".

TA NEA: "Gang of 5 looting the Funds - Banks' charges of 'blue' scams".

VRADYNI: "50 percent subsidy for women and youths - What the new programme 'entrepreneurship-competitiveness' will contain".

Cyprus Affairs

[43] President: meeting now with Talat would neutralize July agreement

A meeting with Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat, at this stage, would neutralize a UN process aiming at a negotiated political settlement in Cyprus, President Tassos Papadopoulos said on Monday.

Responding to questions, President Papadopoulos said such a meeting cannot take place before the implementation of the 8th July 2006 agreement, reached between the leaders of the two communities to begin a process of bicommunal discussions of technical committees and working groups on issues that affect the day-to-day life of the people and concurrently those that concern substantive issues of the Cyprus problem.

Asked if the Turkish Cypriot side has given its answer to Greek Cypriot proposals for the implementation of the agreement, the President of the Republic said that there is no sign.

"It is now clear that the refusal of the other side to respond to our proposals is the reason why talks have not started," he said, noting that the proposals are "absolutely in accordance with the agreement reached on 8th July 2006 and the letter of UN Under Secretary General for political affairs Ibrahim Gambari regarding the acceleration of these efforts."

President Papadopoulos indicated that "a basic condition is that each side has the right to raise any issue, at the technical committees and the working groups, and that when the committees start work, then the leaders of the two communities should meet to evaluate the work done and give further instructions on the progress of the dialogue."

"If we deviate from this basic principle, then I think we open the way for objections from either side and finally for the neutralization of the agreement," President Papadopoulos added, stressing that ''we will not sacrifice the possibility for a constructive and fruitful dialogue for the sake of a public relations exercise, through a meeting with Talat.''

Cyprus is divided since 1974 when Turkish troops invaded and occupied its northern third.

[44] German EU presidency calls on Turkey to avoid threats against Cyprus

The German Presidency of the EU on Monday called on Turkey to avoid actions, such as threats, which might possibly turn against the principle of good neighbourhood and have negative repercussions in the peaceful resolution of differences.

The position is outlined by the Presidency in a reply to a question by Cypriot MÅP Yiannakis Matsis, member of the European People's Party, who referred to the Turkish threats against the Republic of Cyprus on the occasion of the agreements signed by Nicosia with third countries as regards the exploitation of natural gas or oil reserves in its exclusive economic zone.

The German Presidency cites the Helsinki (1999) and Brussels (2004 & 2006) decisions which referred to the commitment of member states as well as candidate states to maintain relations of good neighbourhoodliness. At the same time, the German Presidency reminds that progress in harmonizing bilateral relations between Turkey and the rest of the EU member states includes the Republic of Cyprus.

This harmonization, it adds, constitutes a European obligation which Ankara ought to fulfill in order for progress in its accession progress to be achieved.

The EU Presidency, in its reply to Matsis, points out that in every meeting with Turkey, within the framework of the political dialogue, the European Council representatives point out to Ankara the Turkish obligations, noting that the Council attaches great significance in their fulfillment.

In addition, it is closely monitoring developments, since progress in this sector, meaning the fulfilling or not of the short term priorities, will have consequences in the accession negotiations.

[45] Interior minister warns foreign companies not to engage in illegal activities

Interior Minister Neoêlis Silikiotis said here on Monday that companies which engage in illegal sale or purchase of Greek Cypriot properties in the Turkish occupied north of Cyprus will not be allowed to operate in the Republic of Cyprus.

The minister made the comment after a meeting with US Ambassador to Cyprus Ronald Schlicher during which they discussed the wish of US real estate companies to become active in Cyprus.

Schlicher said "some real estate companies, very large American real estate companies are interested in doing business in the Cypriot market" noting the two discussed the "rules, law and regulations that govern these things, and I alerted the minister to some of the concerns that the American companies have."

Silikiotis said that regarding the activity of foreign real estate companies in Cyprus, "I informed the ambassador that a relevant legislation has been tabled in the House of Representatives which provides for the amendment of the provisions of the existing law, harmonizing it with the acquis communautaire."

So far, he added, permits to work as realtors are given on a personal level, but after the relevant law is amended, companies will be able to operate, provided they comply with certain provisions such as employing people who are registered in the Realtors Registration List and that at least one person in the company speaks Greek.

Silikiotis said it is evident that "companies which engage in the illegal sale or purchase of Greek Cypriot properties in the occupied areas cannot be allowed to operate in the Republic of Cyprus."

On his part, the American Ambassador said these companies are "interested in being in the Republic of Cyprus. They are interested in partnering with people in the real estate business here."

To a question if they are aware of the informed on the situation in Cyprus, Schlicher replied "absolutely and of course when we talk to any companies that are interested in doing business in Cyprus, it's is not only good business it is our duty to let them know of the sort of legal and political legal issues that they might face when they do business in Cyprus."

36, TSOCHA ST. ATHENS 115 21 GREECE * TEL: 64.00.560-63 * FAX: 64.00.581-2 INTERNET ADDRESS: http://www.ana-mpa.gr * e-mail: anabul@ana gr * GENERAL DIRECTOR: GEORGE TAMBAKOPOULOS

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