Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English, 07-10-04

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

CONTENTS

[01] Gov' t proceeding firmly with major changes, bold reforms, PM tells ND parliamentary group

[02] PM and Pavlopoulos discuss EU meeting on immigration, NSRF

[03] Deputy FM Valynakis addresses UN General Assembly

[04] Deputy FM Valinakis meets Greek-American community officials

[05] Greece, Libya discuss maritime boundaries' demarcation

[06] KKE's Papariga on FYROM 'name issue', Kosovo

[07] US Senator warns Skopje gov't over 'nationalistic' actions against Greece

[08] Bakoyannis initiative for release of Myanmar opposition leader

[09] Austria, Greece share excellent bilateral relations, Fischer stresses

[10] European Parliament ratifies report by Dutch Eurodeputy on Turkish accession course

[11] Transport minister meets commissioners in Brussels

[12] Education minister meets university deans

[13] Greek and Greek Cypriot deputies abstain from reception in CoE

[14] Social partners invited to discuss pension reform

[15] Greek enterprises welcome government's 2008 draft budget

[16] FinMin meets with Nobel Laureate Yunus

[17] Govt approves subsidy for Astir Palace Hotel investment plan

[18] Eurobank begins insurance activities in Romania

[19] Greek budget revenues up 6.6 pct in September

[20] Greek closed-end investment funds' assets up in September

[21] Alumil issues seven-year 80-mln-euro bond loan

[22] MIG executive on Group's investment in OTE; dismisses reports of interest in OPAP, PPC

[23] Marfin Investment Group buys 49.9 pct in Attica Holdings

[24] Marfin Group unveils 30-mln-euro aid plan for fire-ravaged areas

[25] Athens International Airport awarded for 3th consecutive year

[26] Air China to begin flights to Athens from November 28

[27] Greek mutual funds' assets slightly up in September

[28] Justice minister to open sessions of maritime law conference

[29] Greek stocks move moderately higher on Wed.

[30] ADEX closing report

[31] Greek bond market closing report

[32] Dry run for transfer to new Acropolis Museum on Thursday week

[33] President Papoulias due in Xanthi for city's liberation celebrations

[34] Serres, Blagoevgrad sign cooperation protocol

[35] Izmir Chamber of Commerce proposes Greek-Turkish cooperation on wildfires

[36] Conference on Philhellenism held in Geneva

[37] Conference on Greek language to be held in Rome

[38] Exhibit by renowned sculptor and painter Kalamaras in Athens

[39] Significant drug cache confiscated in Thessaloniki area

[40] Olympiakos beats Werder Bremen 3-1 away in Champions League match

[41] European Parliament Committee adopts resolution on Turkey

[42] MEPs say Turkey must open ports and airports to Cyprus Politics

[01] Gov' t proceeding firmly with major changes, bold reforms, PM tells ND parliamentary group

"The citizens chose a governance of confidence," the prime minister said, adding that "this means changes and reforms, far removed from dogmas and biases, and their message is that they demand that we move faster and more efficiently."

"We have no room for delays, we do not succumb to reactions by guilds and groups of interests. We are strong in the society, and we operate as a tight fist regarding the country's problems," Karamanlis stressed, adding that some quarters "chose conservatism and populism", and warning that "barren negativity, the 'no' to everything, does not benefit the country".

On the government's priorities for its new four-year term in office, the premier cited in particular the reform of the social insurance system, noting that "the government has already invited the political forces to dialogue" aimed at "a modern, just and viable social insurance system".

"No one has the right to undermine the future of the coming generations. Inertia and rejection are the most anti-popular choices," he said.

Another priority was change of the electoral law, he said, explaining that the present electoral law had been tested in action, and ading that "we want an electoral law that strengthens the governmental stability, without hurting the proportionality'.

Karamanlis said that the new electoral law would be unveiled early on in the current governmental term, and not at the end of the four-year term, while a futher priority was the bill that would give absentee voting rights to Greeks citizens abroad.

Still yet another priority was the revision of the Constitution. "Our aim is to proceed with a revision of the Constitution, particularly the provisions concerning transparency and higher education, and the responsibility lies with the entire parliament. Effectiveness depends on the credibility of everyone," he stressed.

On the developments in the main opposition PASOK party, Karamanlis stressed that "we respect the historic course of all the parties, and do not involve ourselves in anyone's internal party affairs".

In a brief account of the government's first term in office, Karamanlis said that it had succeeded in laying the foundations for a strong economy, dynamic growth, and improvement of state efficiency. The goal now was to carry on with the reforms at all levels of education, in the environment, and the strengthening of social cohesion, he added.

"We dared to proceed with targeted reforms in all sectors. The credibility of the economy was restored, growth was strengthened, firm foundations were created for a just social state," the premier said about the government's first term, whereas in the present term it would "ensure fiscal streamlining, with the goal of achieving balanced budgets by 2010". At the same time, the National Strategic Reference Framework (NSRF) would be soon voted on in parliament, 80 percent of the funds of which will be chanelled to the periphery, the biggest public works program the country has ever known was in progress, farmers were being backed on turning to crops of the future, tourism development was being strengthened, new measures were being taken to support SMEs, an increase in the social dividend was being ensured, priority was being placed on the knowledge society and digital Greece and the rejuvenation of the public university, while in the long-term the autonomy of the lyceum and change of the entry system to higher education institutions were also being advanced.

The goal, Karamanlis said, was to evolved into a state of increased abilities, adding that "we are continuing the reforms for a more efficient state".

The premier stressed that the reforms were also being materialised for strengthening the social state, with the establishment of a special Social Cohesion Fund to combat poverty, while soon the new unemployment benefit would enter into effect, as well as increases in the EKAS low-pension benefit and farmers' pensions, while as of 2009 a minimum national pension would be established.

On national issues, Karamanlis said that the targets included full restoration of Greek-Turkish relations and finding a viable and functional solution to the Cyprus problem, reiterating that the government supported Turkey's European orientation but stressing that "full accession means full conformation with the European principles".

Regarding FYROM, Karamanlis stressed that the government has made it fully clear to the neighbouring country that "persistence on irredentist propaganda and intransigence in the process of finding a compromise solution on the name issue undermines its road to NATO and Europe".

Earlier, Karamanlis noted that Thursday would mark the 33rd anniversary of the founding of the New Democracy party, and made a special reference to the party's founder, the late statesman Constantine Karamanlis, and to all the party leaders since then.

The meeting ended with the election of Ioannis Tragakis as the new general secretary of the ND parliamentary group, with Theofilos Leontaridis. Elias Psomiadis, Michalis Bekiris, George Kontoyannis and Fevronia Patrianakou as the alternates.

[02] PM and Pavlopoulos discuss EU meeting on immigration, NSRF

In statements after the meeting, Pavlopoulos said the EU interior and justice ministers' meeting had focused on illegal immigration but also civil protection and stressed that the foreign ministry was currently promoting a parallel initiative at the European Commission.

Regarding the NSRF, the minister said that they had discussed how to immediately launch a Special Operational Programme for Public Administration. He stressed that the government placed great emphasis on this, especially in terms of simplifying procedures.

In reply to questions regarding planned changes to the system for general elections, and whether the relevant law was ready, Pavlopoulos said that the press would be informed as soon as the draft bill was prepared and had been approved by the inner Cabinet. He said the outline of the planned changes had already been described, and would seek to enhance governmental stability while preserving the fundamental elements of proportional representation.

He also dismissed questions regarding the prospect early elections in less than 18 months after the new election law was passed, describing this whole line of thinking as "arbitrary".

In additional to Pavlopoulos, Karamanlis also had a meeting on Wednesday with the secretary of ruling New Democracy's Parliamentary group Giannis Tragakis regarding his new duties.

[03] Deputy FM Valynakis addresses UN General Assembly

Reinforcement of regional, the establishment of good neighbourhood relations, and finding mutually acceptable solutions to existing problems with neighbouring countries are a fundamental condition for further incorporation of the countries of Southeastern Europe into the Euro-Atlantic institutions, Greece's deputy foreign minister Yannis Valinakis stressed on Tuesday, addressing the 62nd session of the UN General Assembly, warning that "provocative actions and statements with irredentist insinuations are incompatible with the principles of the United Nations and the joint European values, they poison the necessary climate of understanding between peoples, and contravene the European perceptions".

Addressing himself to General Assembly president and former foreign minister of FYROM Srgian Kerim and the Assembly members, Valynakis noted that, in that framework, UN Security Council resolutions 817 and 845 calling for a mutually acceptable solution to the FYROM name issue "must be respected, in action, by everyone". The comment was in reference to Kerim's introduction of FYROM president Branko Crvenkovski to the Assembly last week as "President of Macedonia", disregarding FYROM's membership in the UN under the temporary name of 'FYROM'.

Earlier in his address, Valinakis noted that the major challenges and problems at global and regional scale demanded immediate and structured responses. The UN's responsibilities and role in ensuring a unity of direction were acquiring increasing importance and, precisely for this reason, respect of the UN Resolutions should be the first priority of everyone, "including those who have been elected to represent the Un and its institutions".

Valinakis further congratulated Sheikha Haya Rashed Al Khalifa of Bahrain -- who was elected president of the 61st session of the General Assembly in June 2006, preceding Kerim -- "who was just the third woman in UN history to become the president of this Assembly", on her "efforts to advance the goals and principles on which the (UN) Organisation is founded".

He also expressed his appreciation to the UN Secretary General "for his constant efforts to safeguard peace and international security and to keep alive the prestige and role of the Organisation in this framework".

Valynakis said that the end of the Cold War had brought a new era in international relations, "which wiped out the threat of military conflict between the two opposing camps". However, he continued, the international community still faced violent domestic clashes, civil wars, genocides and other large-scale barbarities that cause massive destruction and misery to millions of people. However, the conflicts among states and the domestic conflicts were not the only threat to international peace and security. "New threats and provocations are emerging. The proliferation of weapons of mass destruction are a serious provocation. Organised crime and the trafficking of persons constitute another threat, which can have destabilising effects and incite civil wars. Extreme poverty in may parts of the world, failed states, large-scale humanitarian destruction, deadly communicable diseases, downgrading and destruction of the environment, also have catastrophic consequences, he warned.

The Greek deputy minister placed particular emphasis on the issue of the environment, endorsing the Secretary General's initiative in organising a high level event last week on tackling climate change.

He said that the environmental problems were potentially the greatest threats to the world's societies, and expressed hope that a world-wide systematic and comprehensive approach would soon arise in order to help "save our planet, our future, and our children's future". Control and confrontation of climate change, he continued, was one of the biggest environmental and developmental changes given that without immediate action in tackling the problems arising from those challenges "we are in danger of paying a very high and bitter price".

"We must proceed promptly, with a step-by-step approach, building on the national and international abilities, in order to tackle the causes, ameliorate the repercussions and create synergies that will enable specific and measurable results to arise in the immediate future," Valynakis urged.

He said a clear indication of the importance Greece places on the environment was the Greek presidency of the Human Security Network's decision to focus attention on climate change and human security. Referring to the devastating wildfires in Greece this past summer, Valynakis stressed that the country suffered heavily from the destructive forest fires, and expressed deep appreciation and thanks to all the countries that offered their assistance and solidarity.

Turning to the present situation in the world political scene, Valinakis said that the struggle for peace was not an easy affiar, and in order for the aspiration for international peace and stability to be fruitious, the threats must be confronted systematically, and many conditions needed to be fulfilled, through active confrontation of outstanding conflicts, overcoming deeply-rotted injustice, inequality, continuing violence, social exclusion, extreme poverty, famine, illiteracy, and cultural tensions.

He said that in confronting the deep-rooted structural problems that breed conflicts, the building of peace must combine security and development.

Terrorism, he continued, was without doubt one of the most substantial threats to peace and security as it harmed the very foundations of the democratic societies, adding that actions to confront that threat must be compatible with the international principles of human rights and fundamental freedoms. The adoption of a comprehensive counter-terrorism strategy by the UN General assembly was an important achievement and its full implementation must be an absolute priority of the member countries, he said, stressing the importance placed by Greece on completion of the ongoing negotiations for drafting a comprehensive treaty against international terrorism, which would be a very important addition to the existing legal framework on combatting terrorism.

"Given all these threats and challenges that exceed state boundaries, we need a more comprehensive view of collective security that will be founded on respect and justice as prerequisites for peace, and on solidarity as a condition for security that will also include a commitment on the part of all of us to advance sustainable development. But above all, we need a commitment for collective political action, which requires strengthening of the United Nations," Valinakis said.

He said that prompt, effective and systematic prevention of conflicts was at the centre of the UN's mission for preserving international peace and security. Comprehensive, long-term strategies to tackle the basic causes of conflicts were necessary, and for this reason the UN needed to have a strengthened role in the management, resolution and prevention of conflicts and their rekindling, while the international regional organisations also needed to be efficient in that framework, and international agreements needed to be adhered to.

The UN was created on the basis of the desire of the states that collective action constituted the only foundation for the taking of measures in order to tackle the common global problems. "Our common values are ensured only by the UN Charter and govern our efforts in the direction of unity over what is correct and just: freedom, democracy, human rights, equality, peaceful resolution of differences, respect, multi-culturism, tolerance, open societies, dialogue among neighbouring states, nationsl religions and cultures," Valinakis said, stressing that Greece's foreign and security policy was founded on precisely those principles and values. "We are committed to peaceful resolution of differences, adherence of international law, including the international humanitarian law, and the advancement of good neighbourhood relations," he explained.

Turning to the Cyprus problem, Valinakis said he was deeply sorry to have to note that more than 30 years after the 1974 Turkish invasion of Cyprus, the Republic of Cyprus remained today a divided island, with Turkey still occupying a part of a UN and EU member country with more than 40,000 occupation troops, in violation of the relevant UN resolutions and international law.

Greece's firm goal continued to be the withdrawal of all the occupation troops from the island and its reunification in the framework of a bizonal, bi-communal federation and, in that context, the relevant UN resolutions and the EU principles and values provided the clear-cut framework for a comprehensive solution to be agreed on by both the communities on the island.

Greece, he continued, has always, and systematically, welcomed all the UN initiatives for finding a just and viable solution and, in that framework, it fervently endorses a speedy implementation of the agreement of July 8, 2006, reached under the UN auspices. Further, Greece will continue to do everything to help the two communities agree on a solution, all the more so as such a development would substantially strengthen the development of friendship and cooperation between Greece and Turkey.

"We appeal to Turkey to manifest the necessary volition and flexibility in that direction," he said.

Greece's foreign policy, he sad, was founded on the principles of International Law and the UN Charter, and in that spirit it also approached its relations with neighbouring Turkey.

Greece has taken specific measures and initiatives in order to continue broadening and strengthening its cooperation with Turkey in all sectors and, recently, this has been strengthened even further in the economic sector, and also the energy sector, Valinakis said.

"We believe that a democratic Turkey, with a clear-cut European orientation, which will fully meet the EU criteria and prerequisites contained in the EU-Turkey negotiations framework, could become a factor of stability in our region. For this reason we support Turkey's European aspirations. But Turkey, however, must actively manifest its unreserved dedication to the principles of good neighbourhood and peaceful resolution of differences with neighbouring states. In all cases, Greece has from the very beginning, and repeatedly, stated that Turkey's full conformation should lead to its full accession," Valinakis said.

He explained that good neighbour relations were the cornerstone on which the countries of SE Europe must build a common European future of peace, stability and prosperity, and the European prospect of those countries was a strategic choice of Greece. "Our vision is to transform our region into one that will be like the rest of Europe, a region of peace, democracy and prosperity. As the oldest EU and NATO member country in the region, Greece is working intensively and constructively to create the necessary conditions of good neighbourhood, mutual understanding and stability in the Balkans".

Valinakis warned, however, that the efforts to ensure a true European future for the Balkans would remain fruitless if a viable and lasting solution was not achieved regarding the future status of Kosovo. "We remain convinced that this goal can be achieved if: first, effective compromises are achieved between the two sides during the current negotiations and, second, if the solution reached is legitimised under a UN Security Council resolution. In every instance, it is an exclusively European problem, and the European Union's role is necessary, here".

Turning to the Middle East, Valinakis said he could not think of any other dispute that has maintained the attention of so many for so long. Everyone was aware of the multi-faceted challenges faced in that part of the world, and everyone agreed that the nature of those challenges were such that they affected not only the peoples of the region but also of the entire international community.

Despite the different ideas and approaches, there was one critical element that was common to everyone, and that was the need to find a just and viable solution in the Middle East founded on the solution of two states, which he said would guarantee security, mutual respect and a just future for all. "this is our common goal, to which Greece is deeply dedicated," Valynakis added.

He further noted the "important and undisputable" progress made by Africa in recent years, which was characterised by its economic growth and better management of crises, and its desire to prevent conflicts. He said that the UN, which has undertaken a very large burden in peacekeeping missions and the provision of developmental assistance, had found in Africa and the African regional organisations a partner of vital importance for the success of this process, and in that context Greece welcomed the creation of UNAMID.

International developmental cooperation, he continued, was a priority of Greek foreign policy, and its international developmental cooperation service, HellenicAid, was materialising the Millennium developmental goalsin the framework set out by the EU and the principles followed by the OECD's developmental cooperation committee, placing parallel emphasis on cultural heritage.

Greece's humanitarian and developmental programmes in 46 countries aim at tackling poverty, sicknesses, famine, lack of access to potable water, and ameliorating the repercussions of natural disasters and conflicts, while at the same time working for protection of human rights, while efforts also focussed on combatting the causes of illegal immigration, human trafficking and terrorism, given that suppression measures were insufficient to confront those problems alone.

In 2005, Valynakis said, Greece earmarked 384.22 million dollars to finance aid programmes in the developing world. In Africa, the developmental aid also included emergency humanitarian assistance, while healthcare for AIDS sufferers and refugees was provided to 20 countries.

"In all the above-mentioned issues, my country is determined to assist the UN and to work together with all the member countries so as to achieve pace and prosperity for all the peoples of the world," the Greek deputy foreign minister concluded.

[04] Deputy FM Valinakis meets Greek-American community officials

Greece's Deputy Foreign Minister Yiannis Valinakis, during his presence in New York, where he addressed the 62nd UN General Assembly session, had the opportunity of meeting with officials of the Greek-American community.

The U.S. and Canada Federation of Dodecanese Associations held a meeting at the "Home of Kos" in Astoria.

The officials and members of the federation congratulated Valinakis for his re-election in Parliament in the Dodecanese prefecture, as well as his appointment again in the post of deputy foreign minister following the September 16 general elections in Greece.

Valinakis thanked the Greek-Americans for their trust, noting that he feels "great responsibility", promising that he will work with all his strength "to meet their expectations."

"I believe that we can achieve much more. To take our islands even further. To achieve the growth and prosperity which they need. And to claim at the centers of decisions, these which the Dodecanese deserve," Valinakis said.

[05] Greece, Libya discuss maritime boundaries' demarcation

The delimitation of maritime zones between Greece and Libya was discussed in a meeting here on Tuesday between Deputy Foreign Minister Yiannis Valinakis and top Libyan diplomat Abd al-Rahman Muhammad Shalgham, on the sidelines of the 62nd United Nations General Assembly meeting in New York.

Valinakis stated after the meeting that the two sides touched on a number of bilateral issues as well as issues concerning the EU-Libya relations, which have distinctly improved recently after a settlement reached in the Bulgarian nurses' case, as well as the signing of a cooperation memorandum in late July.

The meeting with the Libyan government minister, who holds the title of Secretary of the General People's Committee for Foreign Liaison & International Cooperation, was requested in the wake of growing EU-Libya relations, Valinakis said, adding that a decision was reached for a meeting of Greek and Libyan specialists before the end of the year to discuss the delimitation of the maritime zones between the two countries.

"This is a long-standing and pending issue and, in spite of repeated requests, it was impossible to get relative talks underway," he said.

Valinakis characterised the issue as very important for both countries -- divided by the Libyan Sea in the east-central part of the Mediterranean - as he noted that bilateral relations will be further improved in the areas of economic and political cooperation.

Valinakis, who addressed the 62nd UN General Assembly meeting on Wednesday morning (Greek time), also attended a formal reception hosted by Turkish Foreign Minister Ali Babacan and a working dinner of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation (BSEC) foreign ministers.

The deputy foreign minister is scheduled to visit Washington on Wednesday for contacts with US officials.

[06] KKE's Papariga on FYROM 'name issue', Kosovo

Following a KKE political bureau meeting on Tuesday, Papariga presented her party's positions on the situation in the Balkans, reiterating KKE's view over NATO expansion in the region.

In a press conference, she said Washington ranks a decisive factor for developments in the region and the FYROM name issue.

"The United States want speedy developments in view of a NATO summit in April 2008, during which they will back the Alliance's enlargement to include FYROM, Albania and Croatia," Papariga said, predicting that "pressures will intensify".

Papariga linked the FYROM name issue with a possible US decision to recognise Kosovo's independence from Serbia, while adding that obstacles over the delineation of borders between Kosovo and FYROM and an attempted border revision -- in violation of previous UN resolutions -- will lead to a new round of confrontations, not only in the Balkans but in other regions as well.

On the FYROM name issue, Papariga stressed that proposals by UN mediator Matthew Nimetz do not lead to a settlement, but in effect keep the issue open to all kinds of "imperialist interventions".

"US hypocrisy is apparent," she said, considering the fact that "while Washington has unilaterally recognised FYROM under its constitutional name, it has also taken up the role of 'goodwill ambassador' in the effort to reach a solution to the name issue".

"KKE is opposed to negotiations for a mutually acceptable solution to the FYROM name issue that will include the term 'Macedonia' or any of its derivatives," stressed Papariga, adding that it should be made clear that this term can be accepted only as geographic definition. Irredentist propaganda should end, while border inviolability, territorial integrity and sovereignty should be mutually recognised," she stressed.

The communist party also called on the Greek government to reject Kosovo's independence, and to persist in the preservation of existing borders, while adamantly rejecting all acts of unilateral recognition by the European Union.

[07] US Senator warns Skopje gov't over 'nationalistic' actions against Greece

US Sen. Robert Menendez (D-NJ) this week expressed his criticism of the government of the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM) regarding "nationalistic" actions against neighboring Greece, including state-sponsored propaganda and failure to adhere to UN policy over a mutually acceptable solution over the "name issue".

The veteran US lawmaker, a new member of the influential US Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, also warned the Skopje government that US aid - the latest tranche totals 7.5 million dollars -- towards the land-locked country could be blocked if it did not cease such actions.

Menendez has also been a vocal proponent of including Greece in the US visa waiver programme.

[08] Bakoyannis initiative for release of Myanmar opposition leader

Bakoyannis said that her reasons for launching the initiative were not confined to the fact that the foreign ministry was headed by a woman but because the defence of human rights throughout the world was a basic task for the foreign ministry of a country such as Greece, which had given birth to democracy.

"It is worth signing this declaration, with which we demand the release of the leader of Myanmar's main opposition, who has been honoured with a Nobel prize and made the tough choice to remain in her country and be deprived of her freedom, even though she could have lived freely abroad," Bakoyannis stressed in her address to the women deputies representing all the political parties in the Greek Parliament and the European Parliament.

"We, the women of the Greek Parliament and women Euro-deputies express our support for Mrs. Aung San Suu Kyi as a personality, an international symbol of heroic and peaceful resistance," the declaration says, while stressing that the Burmese politician's "personal sacrifice is an inspiration and source of hope for men and women worldwide".

In the same text, Greek women parliamentarians appeal to the international community to increase pressure for the imposition of sanctions by the UN Security Council and for authorities in Myanmar to accept mediation efforts by special UN envoy Ibrahim Gambari, as well as calling for greater efforts to sensitise public opinion.

Two of the women MPs that attended the meeting, both elected with the Communist Party of Greece (KKE), declined to sign the declaration saying that they wanted to study it first.

[09] Austria, Greece share excellent bilateral relations, Fischer stresses

The excellent level of bilateral relations between Greece and Austria was stressed by Austrian President Heinz Fischer in a special ceremony at the presidential mansion here, during which Greece's newly appointed ambassador Panagiotis Zografos presented his credentials.

Amb. Zografos conveyed the warm greetings and respect of President of the Republic President Karolos Papoulias to the Austrian president, who stressed that relations between Austria and Greece are excellent, and underlining that the two countries share the same positions on EU issues such as the European Constitutional Treaty and international policy issues.

The Austrian president, a noted philhellene and a scholar of the ancient Greek language and philosophy, referred to the friendly relations between the two peoples displayed by the fact that Greece is a popular destination for hundreds of thousands of Austrian tourists each year.

[10] European Parliament ratifies report by Dutch Eurodeputy on Turkish accession course

The European Parliament's Foreign Affairs Committee ratified a report by Dutch European People's Party Eurodeputy Ria Oomen-Ruijten on Wednesday, concerning Turkey's accession course, with 45 votes to zero and four abstentions.

The Eurodeputies stress in the report that following recent elections in Turkey and awaiting the progress report by the European Commission, they support the country's European course and reforms that are necessary to enable its accession to the European Unoon, with the parallel fulfilment of its commitments.

Moreover, the report once again underlines Turkey's obligation to fully implement the Customs Protocol with all EU member-states and to honour religious freedoms in the country. The Eurodeputies also expressed concern over the decision recently taken by the Turkish Supreme Annulment Court against the Ecumenical Patriarchate.

The Foreign Affairs Committee also adopted amendments by PASOK Eurodeputies Stavros Lambrinidis and Panayiotis Beglitis, with which the Eurodeputies call on Turkey to pull out Turkish occupation troops from Cyprus before a solution to the political problem is found, stressing that this constitutes a precondition for facilitating negotiations to find a mutually acceptable solution.

They also call on the candidate country to commit itself on relations of good neighbourliness and on a peaceful solution to differences that are pending with neighbouring countries, in accordance with the UN Charter and the principles of international law.

The report is expected to be adopted by the European Parliament plenum in October.

[11] Transport minister meets commissioners in Brussels

Commissioner Reding and Hatzidakis discussed issues concerning the implementation of the European Union's framework for telecommunications, as well as the speedier spreading of the broadband networks, particularly in the Greek markets.

The discussion with the Greek commissioner concerned te implermentation of measures which are being advanced by the Comission, so as to increase the use of public transport friendly towards the environment.

[12] Education minister meets university deans

Athens University dean Christos Kittas said that a "good feeling" exists between the deans from this first meeting that matters will be promoted with prudence and consensus.

Referring to problems presented to the minister by the deans, Kittas referred to the composition of electorate bodies, disfunctions in large bodies and the "eternal" students. He added that in the Athens University alone the "eternal" students are estimated as being 40,000.

On the question of the number of university student admissions and transfers, the Athens University dean said that a reallocation should take place so that a faculty will not receive more students than it can educate.

Meeting with student delegation

Education Minister Evripidis Stylianidis received a delegation of students who had gathered outside the education ministry on Wednesday to protest the draft law and discussed their demands with them.

Speaking after the meeting, Stylianidis said that "dialogue and communication with students is the basis on which whatever policy is built. Every policy, however, needs democratic legalisation from the student movement in its entirety and from Greek society in its entirety. We share concerns over practical problems which a Greek student and a Geek family might be facing today that has its children in the educational system and we shall do our best to handle these problems."

Stylianidis added that "the aim of the new political leadership of the education ministry is, of course, to have its eyes and ears open to new proposals, ideas and even criticism but then it must try to synthesise, to create necessary consensus and convergence to enable the policy applied to be such that it will benefit Greek society in its entirety, the Greek economy and Greece in general."

[13] Greek and Greek Cypriot deputies abstain from reception in CoE

A reception in honour of Turkish President Abdullah Gul was held at the Council of Europe on Wednesday, without the participation of Greek and Greek Cypriot deputies. The reception was held at the initiative of the Turkish delegation.

The absence of the Greek Cypriots was due to the fact that they did not receive a relevant invitation, as was the case with all their colleagues, while the absence of the Greeks took on the form of a protest for this discrimination by the Turks towards the Greek Cypriots.

"It is not possible that there should be such a handling of the Greek Cypriot delegation, at a time when a short while ago the Turkish president spoke of cooperation and consensual intentions," said Greek deputy Constantine Vrettos.

The head of the Turkish delegation, Murat Mercan, received a relevant protest from the Greek deputies through Vrettos.

Vrettos also lodged a protest with Parliamentary Assembly president Van der Linden, who participated in the capacity of Economic Committee president in the luncheon hosted for Gul at noon.

Vrettos protested the "partial attitude" showed showed by the Assembly president during Gul's visit.

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[14] Social partners invited to discuss pension reform

In the letters, the minister repeated the assurances given by Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis that the planned reforms would not affect ages of retirement, insurance contributions or the size of pensions.

Recipients of the invitation were the head of the General Confederation of Employees of Greece (GSEE) Giannis Panagopoulos, who is head of the largest umbrella trade union group representing employees in the private sector, the president of the civil servants' union ADEDY Spiros Spiropoulos, Hellenic Federation of Enterprises (HFE) President Dimitris Daskalopoulos, the head of the Greek confederation of small-scale manufacturers and traders, GSEBEE President Dimitris Assimakopoulos, the National Confederation of Greek Commerce (ESEE) President Dimitris Armenakis and the president of the Economic and Social Committee Christos Polyzogopoulos.

During a meeting with trade unionists at GSEE on Wednesday, Magginas stressed that the problems of Greece's ailing social insurance system could not be dealt with without the participation of society.

He also noted that dialogue would not be confined to Parliament's plenum but also take place in Parliamentary committees and on a bilateral level, as well as in a process involving the "social partners" or trade unions and employers.

GSEE's Panagopoulos said the participation of the trade union group would be decided by GSEE bodies, while noting that GSEE was in favour of dialogue as an institution provided that this was not "booby-trapped" and that there were real prospects it to develop.

A fundamental condition for this, according to Panagopoulos, was the settlement of outstanding debts to social insurance funds and their funding, an issue that he described as paramount and which would be an obstacle to beginning dialogue unless resolved.

He said that Magginas had expressed the government's good intentions on this score but at the same time stressed that good intentions on such a crucial issue were not enough.

GSEE's president pointed out that governments had not met their obligations to social insurance funds under the laws passed to date, which provided for the state funding amounting to 1 percent of GDP per year but also settlement of a 3.5 billion euros debt owed by Greek governments for past years.

A representative of the PAME trade union group within GSEE, which is affiliated to the Communist Party of Greece (KKE), made it clear that its supporters would not participate in the dialogue on pension system reforms and warned that "workers will shed blood over the social insurance issue".

ADEDY's leadership, meanwhile, on Wednesday said it would attend a meeting with Magginas on Thursday but noted that the policy followed by the government on the social insurance issue so far had made matters worse for the state insurance system and those insured by it. As a result, it did not leave room for participation in dialogue, especially when this was not genuine.

[15] Greek enterprises welcome government's 2008 draft budget

The draft budget also highlighted the extremely tight margins of fiscal maneuvering in the country. "The country's huge public debt burden is essentially putting a break to the implementation of any social policy," the Federation said, noting that it was far from certain that funding of the pension system was ensured.

The statement underlined that the government's target of raising additional revenues totaling 6.0 billion euros was very ambitious. "Fiscal management may be flexible, but workers' incomes are not. These revenues must be the result of new tax burdens," it stressed.

The Hellenic Federation of Enterprises urged the government to focus more on education spending.

[16] FinMin meets with Nobel Laureate Yunus

"Combating poverty and social exclusion is among the top priorities for state governments and society," Alogoskoufis said, stressing that the government has decided to boost the fight against poverty and social exclusion through the establishment of a Social Cohesion National Fund.

Alogoskoufis added that talks focused on the effective operation of the fund based on Dr. Yunus' experience.

Muhammad Yunus is a Bangladeshi banker and economist. A former professor of economics, he is famous for his successful application of the concept of microcredit, the extension of small loans to entrepreneurs too poor to qualify for traditional bank loans.

In 2006, Dr. Yunus and the Grameen Bank he founded were jointly awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.

[17] Govt approves subsidy for Astir Palace Hotel investment plan

A ministry statement said the investment plan will be subsidised with 8.6 million euros, or 30 percent of total cost. The plan is part of Astir Palace Vouliagmeni to upgrade its services.

[18] Eurobank begins insurance activities in Romania

The two new companies begun activities in the life and general insurance market in Romania in August 14, 2007 and will cooperate with Bancpost, a Romanian bank owned by Eurobank EFG.

[19] Greek budget revenues up 6.6 pct in September

The Greek government, in the wake of its draft budget for 2008, has raised its forecast for this year's budget revenues growth to 6.9 percent.

Budget revenues grew 6.0 percent in the nine-month period from January to September, slightly up from a 5.9 pct growth rate in the January-August period.

Regular budget revenues grew 7.4 pct in the nine-month period, slightly up from a 7.2 pct growth rate envisaged in this year's budget, but down from an 8.6 percent growth rate envisaged in the 2008 draft budget.

Tax agencies' revenues grew by 7.6 pct in September, customs revenues were up 0.4 pct and VAT revenues rose by 1.8 percent.

[20] Greek closed-end investment funds' assets up in September

A monthly report by the Association of Institutional Investors, said the average numerical annual return was 11.59 percent in September, while average weighed return was 15.12 percent. All companies in the sector reported positive internal value returns, ranging from 4.76 percent to 20.45 percent. The average discount of the sector was -23.05 percent.

[21] Alumil issues seven-year 80-mln-euro bond loan

Alpha Bank, Piraeus Bank are co-ordinators of the issue, while the Black Sea Commerce and Development Bank, EFG Eurobank and Emporiki Bank will participate in the bond issue.

[22] MIG executive on Group's investment in OTE; dismisses reports of interest in OPAP, PPC

He noted that MIG had a "good working relationship" with the Greek government over plans to improve Hellenic Telecoms.

Vgenopoulos said the group, however, had no interest in OPAP, the state-run football and lottery pools organisation, or in the Public Power Corp. (PPC), the national power utility, although he noted that MIG was interested in investments in the energy sector.

Vgenopoulos also made it clear that MIG had no interest in Athens-based Attica Bank, while refuting claims that the group had acquired shares in Hellenic Exchanges or Cosmote, OTE's mobile phone subsidiary.

[23] Marfin Investment Group buys 49.9 pct in Attica Holdings

Following the transaction, MIG owns 51.3 percent in Attica Holdings.

P. Panagopoulos will remain chairman of the board in Attica Holdings, while Andreas Vgenopoulos will take over as executive vice-chairman.

Commenting on the deal, P. Panagopoulos said he will remain chairman of the company and noted that the entry of a powerful shareholder such as MIG in its equity capital created the necessary preconditions for a spectacular growth. "Demands resulting from developments in global economy necessitate the forging of alliances and mergers to effectively deal with business challenges," he noted.

Andreas Vgenopoulos, in a statement, expressed his confidence that Attica Holdings will continue creating significant value for its shareholders.

[24] Marfin Group unveils 30-mln-euro aid plan for fire-ravaged areas

The program was presented by MIG chairman Soud Ba'alawy (chairman of Dubai Investment, a strategic partner of MIG and MPB) and MIG's vice-chairman Andreas Vgenopoulos.

Marfin Investment Group and Marfin Egnatia bank will contribute 10 million euros each to the program, while the remaining 10 million euros will be offered by several anonymous shareholders of the group.

Speaking to reporters, Ba'alawy expressed his full support to both MIG and Marfin Popular Bank and their management team and noted that Dubai Investment will continue developing "at faster rates" a very good partnership with MIG and underlined that Dubai will support MIG's investment initiatives.

Ba'alawy expressed his satisfaction over the cooperation with the Greek government and all related agencies.

[25] Athens International Airport awarded for 3th consecutive year

Praised for "maintaining its Olympic sparkle", the AIA was awarded for its airline developmental programme resulting in 2007 to attract 12 new airlines and add 11 new destinations, to America, Asia and Europe, the press release added.

[26] Air China to begin flights to Athens from November 28

Air China, in a statement said the new airline connection will facilitate tourism to and from Greece and southern Europe to Beijing ahead of the Olympic Games next year. Air China operates 130 scheduled flights per week from Beijing or Shanghai to London, Paris, Frankfurt, Munich, Rome, Milan, Stockholm, Moscow, Madrid and other European capitals.

[27] Greek mutual funds' assets slightly up in September

A report by the Association of Institutional Investors said foreign capital markets' funds (3.8 pct), domestic equity funds (2.0 pct), foreign money market funds (1.7 pct) and foreign bond funds (1.6 pct) recorded the biggest percentage increase in assets, while domestic bond funds (16.1 pct), bond funds of funds (13.9 pct) and domestic money market funds (5.4 pct) recorded the biggest percentage losses in September.

Foreign money market funds (110 mln), foreign capital market funds (91 mln) and foreign bond funds (67 mln) recorded capital inflows in September, while domestic bond funds (304 mln), domestic equity funds (111 mln) and domestic money market funds (68 mln) recorded capital outflows in the month.

The average return of the 58 domestic equity funds was 17.35 pct in September, surpassing a 16.60 pct return of the composite index in the Athens Stock Exchange, with 24 domestic equity funds surpassing the composite index with returns ranging from 16.77 pct to 30.81 pct.

[28] Justice minister to open sessions of maritime law conference

The conference, to be held at the events hall of the Piraeus Port Organization, is titled "Contemporary problems in sea insurance".

[29] Greek stocks move moderately higher on Wed.

The composite index rose 0.15 percent to end at 5,147.84 points, with turnover a massive 781.6 million euros, of which 286.1 million were the transaction of a 49.9-percent equity stake in Attica Holdings to Marfin Investment Group (MIG).

Most sectors moved higher with the Food/Beverage (2.35 pct), Technology (1.07 pct) and Constructions (1.05 pct) scoring the biggest percentage gains of the day, while Banks (0.55 pct), Industrial Products (0.54 pct) and Healthcare (0.44 pct) suffered losses.

The Big Cap index eased 0.12 percent, the Mid Cap index rose 0.23 percent and the Small Cap index fell 0.34 percent. Petzetakis (18.97 pct), Olympic Technical (12.41 pct) and Klonatex (8.11 pct) were top gainers, while Tsoukaridis (6.47 pct), Attica Publications (5.42 pct) and Quality (4.46 pct) were top losers.

Broadly, decliners led advancers by 131 to 116 with another 51 issues unchanged.

Sector indices ended as follows:

Insurance: -0.31%

Industrials: -0.54%

Commercial: +0.33%

Construction: +1.05%

Media: -0.37%

Oil & Gas: +0.48%

Personal & Household: +0.59%

Raw Materials: +0.51%

Travel & Leisure: -0.17%

Technology: +1.07%

Telecoms: +0.44%

Banks: -0.55%

Food & Beverages: +2.35%

Health: -0.44%

Utilities: +0.52%

Chemicals: -0.35%

Financial Services: +0.02%

The stocks with the highest turnover were Attica, Cosmote, OTE and National Bank.

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

Alpha Bank: 24.84

ATEbank: 4.02

Public Power Corp (PPC): 27.66

HBC Coca Cola: 41.38

Hellenic Petroleum: 11.26

Emporiki Bank: 20.46

National Bank of Greece: 44.00

EFG Eurobank Ergasias: 24.72

Intralot: 28.50

Cosmote: 24.56

OPAP: 26.98

OTE: 25.72

Titan Cement Company: 36.30

[30] ADEX closing report

Volume in futures contracts on the FTSE 20 index totaled 4,183 contracts worth 56.152 million euros, with 31,275 open positions in the market, while on the FTSE 40 index volume was 312 contracts worth 10.510 million euros, with 1,397 open positions.

Volume in futures contracts on equities totaled 9,658 contracts worth 15.131 million euros, with investment interest focusing on Marfin Investment Group's contracts (1,751), followed Marfin Popular Bank (822), PPC (999), Piraeus Bank (288), National Bank (950), Intracom (740), Attica bank (1,113) and ATEbank (663).

[31] Greek bond market closing report

The yield spread between the 10-year benchmark Greek and German bonds was unchanged at 0.30 percent, with the Greek bond yielding 4.57 pct and the German Bund 4.27 pct.

In the domestic interbank market, interest rates eased slightly. National Bank's overnight rate fell to 3.80 pct from 4.05 pct on Tuesday, the two-day rate eased to 3.87 pct from 4.10 pct, the one-month rate rose to 4.38 pct from 4.36 pct and the 12-month rate was 4.70 percent.

Foreign Exchange Rates - Thursday

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

U.S. dollar 1.430

Pound sterling 0.701

Danish kroner 7.514

Swedish kroner 9.277

Japanese yen 166.18

Swiss franc 1.676

Norwegian kroner 7.760

Cyprus pound 0.588

Canadian dollar 1.424

Australian dollar 1.608

General News

[32] Dry run for transfer to new Acropolis Museum on Thursday week

"For all of us, our primary concern is the safe transfer of the artifacts," Liapis stressed in statements on Wednesday regarding the move, during a visit to inspect work on the conservation and packaging of the exhibits that is now entering the final stages.

Two of the cranes forming the crane-relay that will carry out the antiquities down the hill from the summit of the Acropolis have been set up at the Dionysus theatre and on Tripodon Street, while a third will be erected over the next few days within the grounds of the new museum on Makrygianni street.

Liapis said the government would take all measures necessary to minimise the inconvenience to passers-by and local residents on pedestrianised Dionysiou Areopagitou street, which skirts the entrance to the Acropolis and leads to Thissio, while the transfer of the antiquities was taking place.

The actual transfer of the antiquities is scheduled to begin on October 14.

[33] President Papoulias due in Xanthi for city's liberation celebrations

In the afternoon he will visit Porto Lagos in the municipality of Avdires, where he will briefed on the region's affairs by the head of the Xanthi-Drama-Kavala supra-prefecture and Xanthi prefect.

[34] Serres, Blagoevgrad sign cooperation protocol

The protocol concerns joint action in the sectors of environmental protection and prevention of natural disasters, viable development, tourism and the exchange of know-how in public administration and local government.

[35] Izmir Chamber of Commerce proposes Greek-Turkish cooperation on wildfires

The Izmir Chamber of Commerce is proposing Greek-Turkish cooperation on the issue of wildfires. It is proposing the creation of a Joint Firefighting Aircraft Fleet with the purpose of intervening jointly to combat wildfires on both sides of the Aegean.

The plan met with a positive response from the Greek side, according to the Chamber's President Ekrem Demirtas, who attended, as a guest of composer Mikis Theodorakis, the concert held over the weekend at the Herod Atticus Theatre with the aim of collecting aid for the wildfire-stricken.

[36] Conference on Philhellenism held in Geneva

A conference on the issue of "Considerations on Philhellenism" was held with great success in Geneva with the aim of promoting the development of the spirit of philhellenism in Europe and its decisive role in promoting and supporting Hellenism.

The permanent Greek delegation at the UN, the active Society of Swiss Philhellenes 'Jean-Gabriel Eynard' and the Greek general consulate in Geneva organised this cultural event as a joint effort.

The main speakers at the event were Paul Schubert, a language and Greek literature professor at the Geneva University, Michelle Bouvier-Bron, a historian, Stella Ghervas, a historian, as well as George Prevelakis, a professor of geopolitics at the Sorbonne University.

Greece's General Consul in Geneva, Theresa Angelatou said that philhellenism is a European movement and has been characterised by political, cultural and humanitarian ideas. It was a cultural movement that developed in the framework of the Greek Revolution and developed into a political one, a struggle for liberation from the Ottoman Empire.

Greece's UN permanent representative, ambassador Frangiskos Verros, summing up the conclusions reached during the conference, focused on the importance of the movement that amazed Europe in the early 19th century and constituted an element of unity for people of an extremely different political ideology and social origin.

He also pointed out that the philhellenism movement of the times that supported the revival of Greece in many ways, despite the unfavourable political climate prevailing at the time, is an example of governments being persuaded by public opinion and, ultimately, of state interests bowing to the mandates of ethics and ideology.

[37] Conference on Greek language to be held in Rome

The start of the sessions of the conference, on the theme "The teaching and spreading of Modern Greek in Italy" will take place at the events hall "Odeion" of the Philosophical School of "La Sapienza" university, under the supervision of professor Paola Maria Minucci.

[38] Exhibit by renowned sculptor and painter Kalamaras in Athens

The artist, from Perth, Western Australia, is inspired by his love for his homelamd, Greece, which he left 57 years ago in pursuit of a better future.

"I feel particularly proud that for the ninth time I'm exhibiting my works in Greece," he told the ANA-MPA on Wednesday.

"Every return is a special celebration for me and my family," the 75-year-old artist added.

On exhibit will be 19 sculptures from bronze and 28 paintings.

The exhibition will last until October 24.

[39] Significant drug cache confiscated in Thessaloniki area

The raids yielded a total of 4.7 kilos hashish, 71 grams of cocaine, nearly 98 grams of heroin, 264 Ecstasy pills, 115 LSD squares, 54 grams of liquid methadone, two grams of "skunk" and four precision scales.

Authorities also seized a number of mobile phones, a PC, two private cars and nearly 5,000 euros in drug-related money.

Soccer

[40] Olympiakos beats Werder Bremen 3-1 away in Champions League match

Olymiakos Piraeus' goals were scored by Ieroklis Stoltidis in the 73rd minute, Christos Patsatzoglou in the 82nd and by Darko Kovacevic in the 87th.

Werder Bremen's goal was scored by Hugo Almeida in the 32nd minute.

Cyprus Affairs

[41] European Parliament Committee adopts resolution on Turkey

The European Parliament expects that Turkey will cease its economic blockage and threats against neighbouring countries and regrets that no substantial progress has been made towards a political settlement in Cyprus, which should be within the UN framework, based on EU principles.

A resolution adopted by the Parliament's Foreign Affairs Committee calls on Ankara to implement fully the terms of the Association Agreement and its Additional Protocol and stresses that non compliance with these terms will have serious repercussions on the country's accession negotiations.

The resolution, put forward by Dutch MEP Ria Oomen-Ruijten of the European People's Party was adopted on Wednesday by 48 votes in favour and four abstentions.

The European Parliament "urges the new Turkish government to fully implement the provisions stemming from the Association agreement and its Additional Protocol; recalls that the non-fulfillment of Turkey's commitments referred to in the Association Partnership will continue to affect seriously the process of negotiations."

It attaches great importance to Turkey's commitment to good neighbourly relations in line with the requirements set out in the Negotiating Framework and reiterates its "expectation that Turkey refrains from any economic blockade, border closure, threats or tension-prone military activities against neighbouring countries" and calls again on the Turkish and Armenian government to start a process of reconciliation.

The Parliament "regrets that no substantial progress in finding a comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus question has been made and reiterates its call on both parties to adopt a constructive attitude towards a comprehensive settlement within the UN framework, based on the principles upon which the EU is founded."

It welcomes "the establishment of an instrument of financial support to encourage the economic development of the Turkish Cypriot community and calls on the Commission to report specifically on the effectiveness of this instrument."

Furthermore, the Parliament notes that full compliance with all the Copenhagen criteria remains "the basis for accession to the EU" and adds that Turkey has not yet fully implemented the provisions stemming from the Association Agreement and its Additional Protocol.

The Parliament recalls its previous resolutions stating that the withdrawal of Turkish forces would facilitate the negotiations of a settlement.

It calls on Ankara to accelerate the process of reforms, expresses concern about the "repeated interference of the Turkish armed forces in the political process and stresses that further efforts are needed to ensure full civilian control over the military."

Euro MPs deplored that a number of persons continue to be prosecuted under Article 301 of the Penal Code and expresses concern over the recent ruling of the Turkish Court of Cassation on the Ecumenical Patriarchate.

The resolution "strongly condemns the murder of Hrant Dink" and all other acts of politically motivated violence.

The resolution, which accompanies the progress report on Turkey prepared by the Dutch Euro MP, will be forwarded to the plenary of the Parliament for debate in late October.

[42] MEPs say Turkey must open ports and airports to Cyprus

Members of the European Parliament Transport Committee, currently visiting Cyprus at the invitation of Cypriot MEP

Ioannis Kasoulides, have sent a message to Turkey that it must open its ports and airports to the Republic of Cyprus.

''It is clear that Turkey has to obey the treaties they have signed to open their ports and airports for the use by Cyprus and Cyprus-run companies,'' head of the delegation, German MEP of the European People's Party Georg Jarzembowski said.

He added that on their return to Brussels, the MEPs would seek a meeting with Enlargement Commissioner Olli Rehn, from whom they would request that the Commission insists that Turkey must lift the restrictions it is imposing against the Republic of Cyprus.

''It is not possible that a country like Turkey wants to become a member of the EU and is negotiating with the EU for its membership but does not allow ships and airplanes from one of the 27 member states to enter its territories and even violates the agreement it has signed to open the airports and ports. This is very important," he said, adding that "when we go back we will talk to Commissioner Rehn again that within the negotiation of Turkey he will have to insist that these bans of the Turkish authorities on airports and ports have to be lifted.''

Italian MEP Luca Romagnoli of the Identity, Tradition and Sovereignty Group at the European Parliament spoke about the problems faced by the Civil Aviation authority of Cyprus by the illegal airport of Tympos in the Turkish occupied areas.

''Europe must find a solution. From what they told us it is a problem for all EU citizens coming to Cyprus. Our Committee should propose an initiative to the Commission to try to solve this problem,'' he noted.

The MEPs also referred to Cyprus' plans to join a group of countries, comprising Malta, Greece and Italy, for the better management of their air traffic.

Cyprus, which joined the EU in 2004, has been divided since 1974, when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third.

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