Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English, 08-05-15

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

CONTENTS

[01] Govt sells 3.0 pct of OTE to Deutsche Telekom for 442.3 mln euros

[02] PASOK Political Council, opposition parties on OTE issue

[03] Bakoyannis on French EU Presidency

[04] FM Bakoyannis congratulates Russian counterpart Lavrov

[05] FM Bakoyannis hails results of Serbia's parliamentary elections

[06] Greece and Argentina sign cooperation agreement

[07] PASOK Political Council on administrative reform

[08] Government, Alavanos on article 16

[09] Discussion on National Town Plan begins

[10] Gov't on Alogoskoufis and Souflias

[11] US envoy in Athens reaffirms US support for Ecumenical Patriarchate

[12] Fuel truck owners suspend strike action

[13] New round of strikes begins on Thursday

[14] Three tenders for Thessaloniki port containers terminal

[15] Development minister meets Congo's industry minister

[16] Greek unemployment unchanged at 8.0 pct in February

[17] ATEbank to pay 0.10-euro per share dividend to shareholders

[18] Piraeus Bank says Q1 profits up 46 pct

[19] Public projects worth 31.7 million euros undertaken by Athoniki Techniki company

[20] Greek marble used in Chinese buildings

[21] 1st World Shipping Congress in Athens on June 4

[22] Sidenor signs strategic partnership agreement with Nucor Corp

[23] 3rd 'Sales Convention' to be held on May 29

[24] Greek stocks end slightly higher

[25] ADEX closing report

[26] Greek bond market claoing report

[27] Foreign Exchange Rates - Thursday

[28] President praises activities of Research and Technology Foundation

[29] SYRIZA's Alavanos visits new Acropolis Museum

[30] Minister meets former head of Global Forum on Migration and Development Task Force

[31] Balkan Network on Green Development

[32] Greek-Turkish exercise on natural disasters

[33] Cyprus press office honors Greek Cypriot journalists

[34] Queen Sophia of Spain presents awards

[35] Gov't announces delivery of natural gas-powered refuse trucks

[36] Study on under-age Internet use to be unveiled on May 27

[37] Government to sign cooperation agreement with WWF

[38] Culture minister inaugurates Egyptian antiquities exhibition

[39] Reports: Mokbel to be extradited to Australia

[40] Illegal immigrants, smugglers arrested in Kozani

[41] Probe into new case of doping in Greek sport

[42] Partly cloudy on Thursday

[43] Christofias: we need to reassess the basis of negotiations

[44] President briefs new UN Special Representative

[45] New UN Special Representative meets President Christofias Politics

[01] Govt sells 3.0 pct of OTE to Deutsche Telekom for 442.3 mln euros

In announcing the agreement, Greek Economy and Finance Minister George Alogo-skoufis, who was accompanied by Transport and Communications Minister Kostis Hatzidakis, said the deal will give DT some 23 percent of OTE's shares, with the remaining shares ostensibly will be acquired on the market.

Alogoskoufis also said that although the Greek state has no intent to sell-off more of its shares in OTE, the biggest telecoms provider in the Balkans, it retains the right to do so at a set minimum price for one year -- 5 percent for at least 27.5 euros per share. He also cited a similar clause for selling another 10 percent by 2011.

In repeating various "safety clauses" retained by the Greek state vis-à-vis OTE, Alogoskoufis said the government will retain the right to veto decisions involving national security and defence; it will be represented with two appointees on a four-person "executive committee" appointed to run the company's day-to-day operations, whereas telecoms rates will fall under the jurisdiction of the independent telecoms watchdog authority EETT.

Expectedly, the announcement of the final deal to transfer OTE's management generated a firestorm of criticism by the opposition.

Speaking to reporters, after an inter-ministerial commission meeting approved the deal with Deutsche Telekom, Alogoskoufis said the deal will be valid only after its approval by Parliament, the European Commission and regulatory authorities in Greece and Germany. The deal paves a new road for Hellenic Telecoms and for the Greek economy in general, while it ensured workers' rights in the organization, he noted.

Alogoskoufis added that a partnership with Europe's largest telecoms organization will strengthen OTE, both financially and technologically. The country's telecommunications sector will also be strengthened, he noted, adding that the government was fully satisfied with the deal.

Under the terms of the deal, Deutsche Telekom will have to buy 3.0 pct from the Greek state at a price of 29.75 euros per share, while the German group will not be able either to buy or sell shares in OTE until 2011. A board council will comprise of 10 members, five each, while the Greek state retains the right of two vetoes over appointment of board members.

Alogoskoufis reiterated that a National Telecommunications Commission maintains its role in approving telecoms rates. Panagis Vourloumis will remain as chairman and chief executive.

The Greek minister said that the deal envisages consultations on labour issues under the Greek labour legislation.

"It is a pioneer agreement for Greece and Europe," Alogoskoufis said noting that the deal will boost competition, offering high-quality products, while the organization will be strengthened.

Transport and Communications Minister Costis Hatzidakis said the deal was a very important step for the Greek organization and the economy in general, noting it was a balanced deal ensuring workers rights. "Today, Hellenic Telecoms is promoted in the first league of Europe," he said.

[02] PASOK Political Council, opposition parties on OTE issue

PASOK spokesman George Papaconstantinou said that "what the government is aiming at is not a strategic alliance, but the handing over and, indeed, with untransparent procedures." He said that the ruling New Democracy (ND) party "will try to undermine PASOK's position and make it appear as having two policies".

The Political Council reached a decision concerning the issue of OTE in which, among other things, it is stressed that the corporations of strategic importance that are active in networks and infrastructures must remain under the control of the public sector.

The relevant announcement mentions that PASOK considers OTE's "buyout agreement and the loss of its administration's control by the Greek public sector nationally harmful and it is struggling to avert this agreement."

It further notes that after the elections, when PASOK will be in power, "it will exhaust every possibility to enable the public sector to regain control of the Organization."

Lastly, it points out that every possibility of institutional control will be exhausted, including the case of breach of faith, concerning the process of OTE's buyout, that was followed by the New Democracy government.

Commenting on the issue, the Communist Party of Greece (KKE) said that "the OTE chapter, began by the New Democracy party and promoted by PASOK, has been closed by ND now. The employees must not legitimize the privatization and the consequences at the expense of the people. The struggle is continuing for an exclusively united public telecommunications agency."

Coalition of the Left, Movements and Ecology (Synaspismos) Political Bureau member Dimitris Stratoulis said that "the sellout of OTE by the government to the German Deutsche Telekom, despite the opposition of the overwhelming majority of society, is like a general bill of sale for the future of our country. It constitutes a great economic, social and national crime with incalculable negative consequences for growth, for the citizens, for the working people and national defense."

[03] Bakoyannis on French EU Presidency

Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis stated here on Wednesday that Greece expects a great deal from the French EU Presidency, speaking during her visit to the French capital, where she attended a dinner hosted by her French counterpart Bernard Kouchner in honor of his EU colleagues.

France takes over of the EU Presidency in July.

Bakoyannis stated that a meeting of 10 European Union foreign ministers was held Tuesday, at Kouchner's initiative, to discuss the preparation of the French EU Presidency.

"Greece expects a lot from the French EU Presidency, a presidency that will have many responsibilities and hopefully will undertake many initiatives," she stressed.

"Europe changes, political issues are still open and it is obvious that a closer cooperation is necessary particularly in the sectors of immigration, environment and European foreign policy," Bakoyannis said, while wishing success to France and adding that Greece will be contributing to its efforts as much as possible.

[04] FM Bakoyannis congratulates Russian counterpart Lavrov

In a message, Bakoyannis referred to the "continuous and close cooperation between Greece and Russia and for its further strengthening in the benefit of Greek-Russian relations," according to a foreign ministry press release.

[05] FM Bakoyannis hails results of Serbia's parliamentary elections

"We hope that the discussions between the political parties for the formation of a government will have, as soon as possible, a positive result, so that the new government which will come about will continue the tough work in order to fulfill Serbia's quest to have its position where it belongs: among the member-states of the European Union. Something which the Serbian people deserve," Bakoyannis said.

[06] Greece and Argentina sign cooperation agreement

"We signed an economic cooperation agreement between Argentina and Greece. A new era is opening with this agreement in the development of our bilateral relations. I want to believe that this is the beginning, since more agreements will follow, which are necessary to strengthen our relations in other sectors as well," Valinakis said.

The minister, who also met with representatives of the Greek community in Argentina, referred to the important role played by the Greek communities in the country which, as he said, can make their own contribution to the effort to further strengthen traditionally friendly relations between Greece and Argentina.

The talks also focused on issues concerning bilateral political relations and prospects for further strengthening cooperation in the economic and trade sectors, as well as other matters of international concern.

As regards bilateral relations between the two countries in particular, a series of agreements in important sectors was examined, such as tourism, education, maritime transport, etc, that are expected to be signed in the near future in the framework of exchanges of visits by officials from the two countries.

[07] PASOK Political Council on administrative reform

Speaking after the meeting, the relevant political representative Haris Kastanidis said that the decisions taken by the Political Council constitute an alternative strategy for the country's governance, regardless of whatever options of the current government and, mainly, as he said, "regardless of its inertia".

Kastanidis reminded that all efforts aimed at reforming the state and administration are linked historically with PASOK and its governmental presence, adding that the ruling New Democracy (ND) party was "opposed to every one of these efforts".

He further said that ND "does not offer any guarantee for a serious change in the structure and the operation of the state."

Kastanidis said that "there are two different strategies in the country concerning the state. The one is that of the Right, that opts for the collective state, and the other is the alternative strategy for a decentralised state, that PASOK represents."

[08] Government, Alavanos on article 16

The spokesman was referring to revelations made in Parliament by Education Minister Evripidis Stylianidis the same day that a draft bill that would have allowed private universities to be established in the country had been prepared and signed by PASOK ministers in 1996. One of the ministers that signed the draft bill was the main opposition party's current leader George Papandreou - then a minister for education.

Roussopoulos said that Papandreou, in particular, had spoken out in favor of revising article 16 in statements before the elections and had even tried to pass a law to this effect as minister, but was now refusing to support what were essentially the same reforms initiated by ruling New Democracy.

"We hope that Mr. Papandreou, even at the final hour, will reconsider the issue," the spokesman added, pointing out that this measure was for the benefit of young people now forced for various reasons to head abroad to study.

In comments on the same issue, meanwhile, the head of the Coalition of the Radical Left (SYRIZA) Parliamentary group welcomed what he said was "the funeral of article 16".

Alavanos said the discussion in Parliament indicated clearly that the required 180 votes for revising the specific article could not be collected - even though it was a policy shared by both ruling ND and main opposition PASOK - and he hailed this as a great victory for Greece's student and educational movement.

"Article 16 was essentially the cause for the collapse of ND's entire revision of the Constitution," he added.

[09] Discussion on National Town Plan begins

Replying to criticism from the opposition, which called for the bill's withdrawal, claiming that it has been rejected by all the relevant scientific and environmental agencies, Souflias pointed out that many proposals made concerning improvements have been included, while terming it "one of the most important and greatest reforms that shall constitute the country's development guide for the next 15 years."

He also accused the opposition of "limiting itself to criticism, without submitting specific proposals on such an important issue."

Souflias also reacted strongly to references and reports that spoke of "interests games" with the speedup in the tabling of the bill on tourist town planning.

"No effort was made to speed up the ratification of the tourist town planning bill which we gave for consideration. Neither of the two bills is moving in the framework of serving interests. On the contrary, they are aiming at the development and the protection of the environment," he said.

[10] Gov't on Alogoskoufis and Souflias

Responding to a question by a member of the press, Rousopoulos said that he had spoken with both ministers and underlined the importance of the environment, town planning and public works ministry proposal for the adoption of measures aimed at curbing air pollution.

[11] US envoy in Athens reaffirms US support for Ecumenical Patriarchate

Speaking after the talks, the Ecumenical Patriarch expressed his complete satisfaction with the meeting, the respect shown by the US towards the institution of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, and the standing positions of consecutive American administrations on the Patriarchate, adding that both America and the Ecumenical Patriarchate "serve the same ideals of justice, freedom and all the supreme moral values that exist over time and universally, and because of this, we share many common positions."

Additionally, the Patriarch noted that discussions with Speckhard also touched on a series of "special issues" that the venerable Istanbul-based Patriarchate, the "primus inter pares" of the world's Orthodox Churches, faces.

"I objectively briefed him (Speckhard) on the situation that our Patriarchate faces today," Vartholomeos added.

The US envoy, who was accompanied by his wife, praised the Ecumenical Patriarch for his international efforts to promote environmental awareness as well as advancing inter-faith dialogue and the spiritual health of the world's citizens, as he said.

"It's been a great honor, and I want to thank you Your All-Holiness," Speckhard added.

"I know you not only from all the good words they say about you, here in Greece, and throughout the world, the Church and the community, but from this," Speckhard said in presenting Vartholomeos with a copy of "Time" magazine listing the Ecumenical Patriarch as one of the 100 most influential people in the world for 2008.

Vartholomeos responded that it was a great honor "for my humble person and for my Church".

In 'painting' Vartholomeos' portrait for "Time", the Archbishop of Canterbury and head of the Anglican Church, Rowan Williams, writes: "The title Ecumenical Patriarch historically refers to the Patriarch's pastoral responsibility for 'the whole inhabited world'. This brave and visionary pastor has given a completely new sense to the ancient honorific; his work puts squarely on our agenda the question of how we express spiritual responsibility for the world we live in."

The international distinction for Vartholomeos (by Time in late April) was followed by the latest eyebrow-raising references to the Ecumenical Patriarchate in the updated pages of the Turkish foreign ministry's website.

Amongst many others, the official Turkish site includes a passage that states: "... Considering that the Patriarchate is a Turkish institution and the Patriarch has to be a Turkish citizen, the usage of the title of 'Ecumenical' is incongruous with the agreement reached during the Lausanne Peace Conference."

Meeting with Papandreou

In a later meeting, main opposition PASOK leader George Papandreou also met with Vartholomeos, with the former stressing afterwards that every meeting he's ever had with the ecclesiastical leader has been inspiring.

"The Ecumenical Patriarchate always and constantly needs our support," Papandreou said, pointing out that "the rights of the Ecumenical Patriarchate are not an issue of exclusive Turkish concern anymore, being directly linked with the European principles that Turkey must implement. It is an issue of Europe and the European Union," he stressed.

"The Ecumenical Patriarchate's rights concern the obligation each country has to implement principles and values that are consistent with the European standards and the international treaties on human and religious rights," he said.

The PASOK leader also stated that the government should not be led by Turkey to handle the Ecumenical Patriarchate affair as a bilateral issue.

Vartholomeos later departed for the central Greece city of Larissa.

Financial News

[12] Fuel truck owners suspend strike action

The Federation's leadership stressed that it is not pleased by the result of the strike but, as it pointed out, it decided to suspend its strike with a feeling of responsibility and also taking into consideration social turmoil, but stressed that its struggle will continue.

In parallel, it committed itself that as of Thursday morning it will make every effort possible to enable even the most remote fuel station to be supplied with fuel.

[13] New round of strikes begins on Thursday

The work stoppage will last from 11:00 in the morning until the end of their shift and there will be a rally at Korai Square in Athens at 11:30 and at the Venizelos Statue in Thessaloniki at noon.

Strike action on Thursday will also be announced by GSEE over the planned privatization of Hellenic Telecommunications Organization (OTE) and the container terminals at Piraeus and Thessaloniki ports, with the central slogan "Public Property is not for sale".

GSEE has already declared a 24-hour strike by staff at OTE and at Greek ports, while a three-hour nationwide work stoppage is planned between noon and 15:00 on Thursday at the Public Power Corporation (PPC), Greek post offices, Olympic Airlines and the Athens water company EYDAP.

An announcement by OA's management, meanwhile, said that flight schedules will be disrupted as a result of the ADEDY strike, which will be joined by air-traffic controllers. The airline has cancelled at least 20 return flights to both foreign and domestic destinations, while another two flights are being modified and departure times are changing for another 14.

GSEE strike rallies will be held at 12:30 at Kaniggos Square in Athens and at the Venizelos Statue in Thessaloniki at noon.

Joining in with the strike action is the bank workers' union OTOE, which has called a 24-hour nationwide strike at banks that have refused to take part in negotiations for a collective labour agreement in the banking sector. Among these are National Bank of Greece, Alpha Bank, Eurobank, Probank, FBB, HSBC, BNP Paribas, Citibank, American Express, Hellenic Bank and Bank of Cyprus.

OTOE called off a strike at the Bank of Greece after the central bank sent a letter clarifying that it was not refusing to attend the negotiations for a collective agreement.

Striking bank staff will also lodge a protest to Employment and Social Protection Minister Fanny Palli-Petralia on Thursday morning and then to a general meeting of NBG shareholders taking place at the Melas building in Kotzia Square, demanding that the bank's governor "stop refusing to negotiate for a sector collective agreement".

[14] Three tenders for Thessaloniki port containers terminal

"Following the tabling of three tenders for the sale of the management of the containers terminal of the port of Thessaloniki, the most important stage of great reforming at the ports of the country, that constituted a firm pursuit of the government, is being concluded," the minister said afterwards.

"The interest of the three companies exceeds every optimistic prediction, since all have a longstanding experience and a great market share in the international port industry," Voulgarakis added.

Voulgarakis also stressed that Thessaloniki is leaving the sidelines and is becoming a trade centre for the Balkans and all of Eastern Europe, adding that "all those who are attempting to raise obstacles for this great development effort, for petty party reasons, must make their self-criticism now."

[15] Development minister meets Congo's industry minister

The two ministers expressed the desire for bilateral relations to develop, promoting investments and encouraging business cooperation, particularly in the sectors of energy, construction, agricultural industry, light industry and fish farming.

Mboso invited Folias to visit his country.

[16] Greek unemployment unchanged at 8.0 pct in February

The number employed people totaled 4,535,309 in February, the number of unemployed people totaled 394,169 and the number of financially non-active population totaled 4,293,199.

The statistics service said the number of unemployed people fell in 2004 and 2005, it rose in 2006, but fell again in 2007 and early 2008. The unemployment rate dropped from 11 pct in February 2004, to 10.4 pct in February 2005 and February 2006, falling to 9.0 pct in February 2007 and 8.0 pct in February this year.

The unemployment rate among women was 12.1 pct in February, more than double compared with a 5.2 pct rate for men. Western Macedonia (16.4 pct), southern Aegean (15.5 pct), Ionian islands (11.9 pct) and western Greece (11.3 pct) were the regions with the highest unemployment rates in February, while Attica (5.9 pct), northern Aegean (6.6 pct), Thessaly (7.5 pct), the Peloponese (7.7 pct) and central Greece (7.9 pct) the lowest rates.

Unemployment in the age group between 15-24 years was 22.1 pct, in the 25-34 group (11.7 pct) and in the 35-44 group (6.0 pct).

[17] ATEbank to pay 0.10-euro per share dividend to shareholders

Addressing the meeting, ATEbank's governor Dimitris Miliakos stressed that the group reported high profits for the third consecutive year, confirming its recovery in the last few years.

Miliakos said all subsidiaries, with the exception of Hellenic Sugar, recovered in 2007 after reporting losses in the previous year, with the group's assets rising by 13.3 pct, while ATEbank's profits jumped 30.8 pct to 211.1 million euros last year. Loan portfolio grew 23.9 pct, while non-performing loans rate fell to 7.1 pct in 2007, from 18.7 pct in 2004. Miliakos said he expected the bank's non-performing rate to fall to record lows this year. He also referred to the bank's expansion plans in Southeastern Europe, and in particular its activities in Serbia (AIKBanka) and Romania (ATEbank Romania).

[18] Piraeus Bank says Q1 profits up 46 pct

Commenting on the results, the bank's chairman Mihalis Sallas, said the Group's dynamic course continued in the first three months of 2008 despite a fluctuating international environment.

Saving deposits grew by 39 percent, loans grew by 48 percent and profitability was up by 46 percent, Sallas said, adding that the group's assets totaled 48.5 billion euros at the end of March, while its branch network surpassed 780 units. Interest and commissions, accounting for 80 pct of net income, grew significantly in the first quarter of the year. Sallas said the bank's performance in the first quarter was in line with the bank's three-year business plan, while he underlined that the plan's targets remained stable.

Saving deposits in Greece grew 34 percent in the first quarter, compared with the same period last year, while loans grew 48 pct to 33.736 billion euros. Mortgage loans grew 28 pct to 6.076 billion euros, with consumer loans up 50 pct to 4.658 billion euros. The non performing loans rate was 2.0 pct at the end of March, from 2.1 pct in December 2007.

Earnings per shares, after taxes, were 0.42 euros per share, from 0.89 euros last year, while excluding last year's extra profits was 0.34 euros. Pre-tax profits jumped 50 percent to 177.5 million euros in the January-March period, from 118.3 million euros last year.

Piraeus Bank operates in nine countries, with its international network totaling 460 branches, from 243 in March last year, accounting for 59 pct of the Group's branch network.

[19] Public projects worth 31.7 million euros undertaken by Athoniki Techniki company

According to an announcement by the company, five of the contracts, totaling 28.5 million euros, have been signed with DEH SA and concern the construction and reconstruction of medium and low electric power tension lines in the prefectures of Imathia, Pieria, Kozani, Florina, Kastoria, Grevena, Evia and Viotia.

The other two contractorships, totaling 1.5 million, concern modern floating port installations in Prespes, aimed at the integrated ecotourist development of the lake district.

[20] Greek marble used in Chinese buildings

However, the Chinese market seems to ask for greater quantities of Greek marble, as stated by the trade attaché of China to Greece, Cheng Dayan, during a visit he made to Drama, northern Greece, on Wednesday.

Cheng met with Drama Prefect Constantine Evmiridis, in the presence of the president of the Chamber of Commerce of Drama, Kyriakos Harakidis.

The Chinese official disclosed that his fourth in a row visit to Drama is the continuation of the promotion of the export of Greek marble to China. Drama Prefecture is the country's greatest exporter of marble.

According to Cheng, China imported in 2007, 118,000 tons of marble from Greece, marking 16.4% of imports, valued at 25 million dollars, compared to 23 million dollars in 2006.

[21] 1st World Shipping Congress in Athens on June 4

It is the first time that the Financial Times is organizing a congress in Greece and the selection of the topic "Charting the Course of World Shipping, Trade & Finance" is important for Greek shipping.

The one-day event will also include the topics: Developments in the World Economy and Sea Trade, Strategies for success in the Dry and Wet markets and Ship Financing: Risks and Profits.

[22] Sidenor signs strategic partnership agreement with Nucor Corp

Under the agreement, Nucor will acquire 34 percent of Sidenor's new subsidiary and will be included in steel business of Viohalco Group (excluding Korinth Pipes SA).

Sidenor, in a statement, said the strategic partnership with Nucor will strengthen its position in the global steel market and accelerating its strategic expansion in the Balkans, Turkey and North Africa.

Sidenor is the largest steel products producer in Greece, with production activities also in Bulgaria and FYROM.

[23] 3rd 'Sales Convention' to be held on May 29

The main speaker will be world renowned chess player Garry Kasparov who will speak on competition and the strategy in the field of businesses.

Garry Kasparov's speech will be titled "Strategy Lessons from Chess", and through this, the top chess player will combine the strategy of successful moves in chess with the strategy of businesses.

[24] Greek stocks end slightly higher

Most sectors moved higher with the Raw Materials (2.44 pct), Oil (1.82 pct) and Chemicals (1.75 pct) scoring the biggest percentage gains of the day, while Media (1.90 pct), Insurance (1.59 pct) and Technology (1.27 pct) suffered losses.

Mediterra (9.87 pct), Epilektos (8.33 pct) and Korres (7.69 pct) were top gainers, while Tria Alpha (9.87 pct), VIS (9.61 pct) and United Textiles (9.09 pct) were top losers. Broadly, decliners led advancers by 123 to 109 with another 61 issues unchanged.

Sector indices ended as follows:

Insurance: -1.59%

Industrials: +0.81%

Commercial: -0.10%

Construction: +0.88%

Media: -1.90%

Oil & Gas: +1.82%

Personal & Household: -0.05%

Raw Materials: +2.44%

Travel & Leisure: -0.15%

Technology: -1.27%

Telecoms: -0.97%

Banks: +0.07%

Food & Beverages: +1.33%

Health: +0.38%

Utilities: -0.50%

Chemicals: +1.75%

Financial Services: +0.38%

The stocks with the highest turnover were OTE, Neochimiki, National Bank and Piraeus Bank.

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

Alpha Bank: 22.40

ATEbank: 2.74

Public Power Corp (PPC): 26.26

HBC Coca Cola: 29.32

Hellenic Petroleum: 10.34

National Bank of Greece: 35.98

EFG Eurobank Ergasias: 19.20

Intralot: 12.24

OPAP: 24.98

OTE: 20.40

Piraeus Bank: 22.20

Bank of Cyprus: 9.04

Marfin Popular Bank: 5.94

[25] ADEX closing report

Volume in futures contracts on the Big Cap index totaled 7,721 contracts worth 85.578 million euros, with 30,812 open positions in the market, while on the Mid Cap index volume was 149 contracts worth 3.729 million euros with 274 open positions.

Volume in futures contracts on equities totaled 32,706 contracts worth 31.255 million euros, with investment interest focusing on Marfin Popular Bank's contracts (10,877), followed by OTE (8,777), National Bank (508), Intracom (1,278), Mytilineos (495), ATEbank (496) and MIG (259).

[26] Greek bond market claoing report

In the interbank market, interest rates moved higher. The 12-month Euribor rose to 4.97 pct from 4.95 pct on Tuesday, the six-month rate was 4.89 pct, the three-month rate 4.85 pct and the one-month rate 4.38 pct.

[27] Foreign Exchange Rates - Thursday

U.S. dollar 1.556

Pound sterling 0.801

Danish kroner 7.522

Swedish kroner 9.382

Japanese yen 163.78

Swiss franc 1.644

Norwegian kroner 7.906

Canadian dollar 1.553

Australian dollar 1.669

General News

[28] President praises activities of Research and Technology Foundation

The two scientists were associate research scientist Dr. Kalliopi Syntichaki of the Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Institute and Crete University Assistant Professor Dr. Petros Rakitzis of the Institute for Electronic Structure and Laser.

Addressing the president, the head of the foundation Alkibiades Pagiatakis noted that the Foundation had managed to emerge as one of the leading research facilities in the world, starting off with just 40 researchers that had increased to 1,100 in the present day.

[29] SYRIZA's Alavanos visits new Acropolis Museum

"The existence of the Parthenon is a reason for all Greece to feel proud. The way that the government is handling the work of conservation is reason for us all to be ashamed, however," Alavanos said, stressing that it was inconceivable that conservators should be owed eight months back pay when they were doing amazing work that Greece was promoting in Beijing.

He also pointed to gaps in funding for essential materials and all the necessary requirements for continuing the work of conservation on the monument.

Alavanos said that he would seek a meeting with Culture Minister Mihalis Liapis in order to discuss the problems faced by the conservation team.

[30] Minister meets former head of Global Forum on Migration and Development Task Force

The meeting also focused on Greek presidency's goals for the organisation of the third Global Forum on Migration in Athens, in which more than 150 countries are to take part, as well as the parallel Civil Society Forum that will be held alongside the forum of states, with the participation of more than 200 non-governmental organisations.

[31] Balkan Network on Green Development

The sum of 174,000 euros has already been earmarked for the restoration of the Angelochori Lighthouse, one of the 25 old lighthouses in Greece, aimed at making it accessible to visitors.

The network is formed by the Inter-Municipal Developmental Company of the Prefecture of Thessaloniki in cooperation with Thessaloniki's Aristotle University, the University of Forestry in Sofia, Bulgaria and the Agricultural Sciences University of Timisoara, Romania.

The inter-Balkan alliance is aimed at establishing a cooperation network seeking scientific cooperation on the management, development and promotion of coastal ecosystems through the implementation of innovative actions for the creation of a "Green Development" environment in the coastal regions of the Black Sea and Northern Aegean.

[32] Greek-Turkish exercise on natural disasters

The exercise was part of the framework for the implementation of confidence-building measures between the two countries. A similar exercise had taken place in Ankara in November 2006.

Participating in the exercise were the Greek Air Force's Mobile Disaster Handling Group (KOMAK) and a delegation of the Turkish Special Forces Command TSK Dogal Afetler Arama/Kurtarma Timleri (DAK).

The exercise's scenario concerned intervention by the two groups to tackle disasters in a military region, following a strong earthquake.

An exchange of gifts and a commemorative photograph followed the termination of the exercise.

In another development, a delegation of the Greek MAK unit will be visiting China on Thursday for an exchange of views on matters concerning natural disasters in light of the holding of the Olympic Games in Beijing. The visit had been scheduled and is part of the framework of bilateral cooperation between the two countries.

[33] Cyprus press office honors Greek Cypriot journalists

ANA-MPA's Direction Adviser Andreas Christodoulides, Sophianos Chryssostomides, Nikos Hasapopoulos, Costas Serezis, Mimis Constantinides, Christos Michaelides, Christa Nicolaou and Vera Korides were awarded by Cyprus Government Spokesman Stephanos Stephanou, who paid tribute to the journalists for their role in "informing the Greek public opinion on the Cyprus issue."

[34] Queen Sophia of Spain presents awards

The distinction was extended in recognition of work concerning promoting, spreading and studying the Spanish language and Spanish literature.

Drakontaedis said that Pantou had been his Spanish language teacher, adding that "he is fascinated by the idea of calling himself a Greek Spaniard."

Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis, who was present at the ceremony, told Queen Sophia that she "is not only the Queen of Spain but also a tireless ambassador of Greek-Spanish friendship, who certifies the excellent relations between the two countries."

Bakoyannis also congratulated Drakontaedis and Pantou, saying that with their work they are continuing the tradition of great translated literary work and thanked them for "the wealth that they have offered to Greece."

[35] Gov't announces delivery of natural gas-powered refuse trucks

The initiative is of major environmental value and could set an example for the rest municipalities in the country, Roussopoulos said, adding that similar refuse trucks are being used in the German capital city of Berlin.

[36] Study on under-age Internet use to be unveiled on May 27

The study was carried out by the Institute with the support of the education ministry and another 12 organizations and services in Greece, among them phone companies and the police electronic crimes squad. The aim was to ascertain whether and to what extent under-18s make safe and creative use of the Internet.

The survey was conducted among a sample of 1,500 teenagers from a representative sample of middle and high schools in Greece, 500 teachers of all fields and 500 parents.

[37] Government to sign cooperation agreement with WWF

The memorandum will deal with issues concerning conservation, sustainable development and restoring the natural environment, including forests.

[38] Culture minister inaugurates Egyptian antiquities exhibition

The Egyptian collection dates back to the last twenty years of the 19th Century, while it is worthy to note the donation of the Egyptian government which in 1893 offered nine mummies of the era of the Pharaohs. However, the Egyptian collection is mainly by two donors, Ioannis Dimitriou (in 1880) and of Alexandros Rostovic (in 1904).

According to Liapis, "this exhibition broadens internationally the horizon of the permanent exhibitions and places it among the great museums of the world. Greeks who do not have the opportunity to travel, can have a full rapprochement, to learn quite a lot about Egyptian civilization."

[39] Reports: Mokbel to be extradited to Australia

Convicted drug trafficker Tony Mokbel, held in Greece since last summer, will reportedly be extradited to Australia according to Australian press reports on Tuesday.

The reports said an executive jet with eight armed police officers has departed for Athens to pick up the one-time fugitive. His lawyers have appealed to the governments of Greece and Australia to delay his extradition until the European Court of Human Rights issues a ruling on his appeal for cancellation of the extradition.

Australia requested his extradition to be tried on two counts of murder and drug trafficking charges.

[40] Illegal immigrants, smugglers arrested in Kozani

Border guards of the illegal immigration squad of Tsotili spotted a truck which had been reported stolen in Athens, along the Kozani-Kastoria highway, and asked the driver to pull over to the side for a check.

The truck driver sped off in an attempt to escape, with the boarder guards' patrol car closely in pursuit. The border guards managed to immobilise the truck shortly afterwards, arresting the two smugglers (driver and co-driver, aged 21 and 27) and a total of 21 illegal immigrants hidden in the truck, all Albanian nationals, who said they had paid the smugglers for transport from the borders.

Sports

[41] Probe into new case of doping in Greek sport

The case has been assigned to a public prosecutor, who has been instructed to investigate whether there are grounds for prosecution based on laws against use of banned substances.

The unnamed athlete involved has apparently tested positive for the same banned substance that was detected in samples provided by athletes in Greece's weight-lifting team, in a case that is now the subject of a full-blown investigation by a public prosecutor.

Weather forecast

[42] Partly cloudy on Thursday

Cyprus Affairs

[43] Christofias: we need to reassess the basis of negotiations

The basis of negotiations to solve the Cyprus problem must be reassessed, President Demetris Christofias believes.

Speaking, Wednesday, on departure for Peru, to attend the EU-Latin American summit, he also said that a lot of work needs to be done at the ongoing discussions between the Greek Cypriot and the Turkish Cypriot communities and welcomed the new UN top envoy on the island.

On his meeting Wednesday with UN Secretary General's Special Representative in Cyprus Taye-Brouk Zerihoun, he said he looks forward to "a good cooperationÖ, and described him as a "very experienced diplomat, with vast knowledge of difficult situations in various parts of the world, especially in Africa."

"I had the chance to outline our positions to Zerihoun on the substance of the Cyprus issue relating to the continuation of initiatives which we have launched in the hope that they will be successful," he said.

Responding to questions, he said at this stage he would not say that the role of the UN has been upgraded. "The UN facilitates the two community leaders, the working groups and the technical committees. No special envoy of the UN Secretary General has been appointed yet, no direct talks have started and naturally the UN acts as a facilitator at present," he explained.

Six working groups and seven technical committees, comprising experts from the Greek Cypriot and the Turkish Cypriot communities, have been meeting in the past 2-3 weeks to prepare the ground for substantive negotiations between the two community leaders.

The meetings take place following an agreement in March between President Christofias and Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat, who are set to meet in late June, according to the agreement, to take stock of the situation.

"There is a lot of work to be done at the committees and the groups. Talat and I have to reassess the situation, including the basis on which discussions are taking place," the president stressed.

Invited to clarify this remark, he explained that "there are difficulties and significant differences of views" at the talks, in spite of the friendly atmosphere that prevails during the meetings.

"My forthcoming meeting with Talat, before the end of June, aims to reassess the situation," he added.

Responding to questions, he said each community has the right to bring to the table provisions from past solution plans, including the most recent one, -the Annan plan- and outline its positions, put forward proposals and counterproposals either new ones or some which might be linked to the Annan plan which was rejected by the Greek Cypriots in a referendum in April 2004 but approved by the Turkish Cypriots.

"Returning to discussions on the Annan plan does not provide any good service to our effort to find a negotiated settlement," he stressed.

Asked about the presence of members of the working groups and technical committees at a dinner with Turkish Cypriots, hosted by a local businessman, the president indicated that nobody needs permission to attend such social and private encounters.

"The members of the committees and the groups have been given their terms of reference which they follow. If any members deviates from these terms, then we have to discuss this," he said, pointing out that the interlocutor at any negotiations is the President of the Republic as the representative of the Greek Cypriot community and nobody will supersede him.

Referring to his participation in the EU-Latin America summit, the president noted the support afforded to Cyprus by Latin American countries, including their contribution to the UN peace-keeping force on the island and the appointment of various UN envoys from these countries.

"The meeting will deal with poverty, social exclusion, injustice, climate change and energy," he said, adding that on the sidelines of the summit he will have the chance to talk to his counterparts from Europe and Latin America and the Caribbean.

Responding to questions about oil imports, President Christofias said Cyprus intends to import oil from anybody who offers the best terms for such a purchase.

"We hope to find suppliers from our region as well as other areas to secure the lowest oil prices," he explained, commenting on press speculation that Cyprus might seek to buy oil from Venezuela.

"Let us not build scenarios to this effect, a possible meeting between our Foreign Minister and his counterpart from Venezuela does not mean it will deal exclusively with oil purchases," he pointed out.

Replying to other questions on rising retail prices in Cyprus, due to the increase in oil prices worldwide, the President said that any government decisions on measures to alleviate the financial burden on consumers will be announced in due time.

[44] President briefs new UN Special Representative

President Demetris Christophias briefed on Wednesday the new UN Secretary General's Special Representative, Tay-Brook Zerihoun, on the positions of the Greek Cypriot side regarding the Cyprus problem.

The UN official, who held his first meeting Wednesday with the Cypriot President, was informed about "the positions of our side regarding the basis and the framework of the Cyprus solution", Government Spokesman Stephanos Stephanou said after a Cabinet meeting.

He added that President Christofias briefed Zerihoun on the latest developments regarding the Cyprus issue, in particular the discussions at bicommunal teams of experts - six working teams and seven technical committees began talks in April with a view to prepare the ground for substantive negotiations that would reunite Cyprus, divided since 1974 when Turkish troops invaded and occupied its northern third.

"We are right now in a process to reach common ground that will help create those conditions that will enable us to proceed with negotiations between the two leaders, to pave the way for a Cyprus solution," he said.

The spokesman reiterated that the basis of the solution should be a bicommunal, bizonal federation, based on the High Level Agreements 1977 and 1979, ''which provide for such a solution''.

"We discuss on the basis of the July 8th 2006 Agreement and the 21st March 2008 Agreement as well as on the basis of the principles of international and European law and of course on the basis of the UN resolutions," the spokesman explained. These agreements endorse previous decisions for a bizonal bicommunal federation.

Responding to questions, he said the government supports rapprochement between Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots, aiming at building trust and increasing communication between the two communities.

"However, building trust and enhancing communication between the two communities is not enough to lead us to a political settlement," Stephanou stressed.

The solution will emerge through negotiations between the leaders of the two communities, he concluded.

[45] New UN Special Representative meets President Christofias

Speaking after the 45-minute meeting, Zerihoun said he had "expressed to the President the good wishes of the SG and reiterated the support of the UN for the process".

He told reporters he will have ample opportunity to speak in the coming days and urged them to give him a little more time.

Zerihoun was to cross to the Turkish occupied north later Wednesday to meet Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat.

The new UN envoy arrived at a time when the Greek Cypriot and the Turkish Cypriot communities are engaged in discussions with a view to prepare the ground for substantive negotiations between the community leaders, leading to a comprehensive settlement.

These talks take place following an agreement in March between Christofias and Talat.

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