Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English, 09-04-23

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

CONTENTS

[01] EU most effective guarantee for Cyprus's security, PM Karamanlis says

[02] Greek PM: Cypriots must determine their own future

[03] PM Karamanlis holds talks with Cyprus party leaders

[04] Formal reception for Karamanlis in Cyprus

[05] Natassa Karamanlis offers first aid to fainting cameraman

[06] Clinton says U.S. does not intend to impose Cyprus solution

[07] Parliamentary committee convenes on Pavlidis case

[08] PASOK spokesman on Pavlidis case

[09] Papandreou deplores state of health care

[10] EU Commissioner Rehn holds talks with FYROM FM

[11] Clinton on fYRoM 'name issue'

[12] Interior ministry human rights report to national commission

[13] President Papoulias to visit Finland in May

[14] Finmin: deficit targets unchanged

[15] Greek public deficit at 5 pct, Eurostat reports

[16] EU Commission on Eurostat figures

[17] PASOK on public deficit, debt

[18] FinMin on statements by Papandreou on economy

[19] GSEE on Eurostat announcement

[20] Bulgarian FM on energy security conference

[21] Development ministry drive to reduce milk prices

[22] Hellenic Postbank's General Assembly decisions

[23] Greek stocks rise by 0.74 pct

[24] ADEX closing report

[25] Greek bond market closing report

[26] Foreign Exchange rates - Thursday

[27] Municipalities given right to use shoreline common land

[28] Professor Eugene Fama given international Onassis Award

[29] 5th Games Festival opens in Thessaloniki

[30] Student conference in northern Greece simulates UN bodies

[31] Cloudy, rainy on Thursday

[32] The Wednesday edition of Athens dailies at a glance Politics

[01] EU most effective guarantee for Cyprus's security, PM Karamanlis says

Greek Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis said here Wednesday, after talks with Cyprus President Demetris Christofias, that the European Union is the most effective guarantee for Cyprus's security and for this reason the existing system of guarantees is superfluous and antiquated.

The existing system of guarantees is not compatible with European principles, Karamanlis said, adding that Cyprus's accession to the European family is by itself the greatest security guarantee.

On his part President Christofias said that Cyprus and Greece agree that the negotiations between the leaders of the two communities in Cyprus for a solution of the island's political problem have not made the expected progress.

The Greek premier began a two-day official visit to Cyprus on Wednesday.

On the question of Turkey's accession course, Karamanlis said that "we support Turkey's accession course because we believe that a Turkey that will adopt European rules of behaviour" will be a Turkey that will be far better for its citizens, for the entire European Union and for its neighbours.

However, he stressed that this position is based on the principle that Turkey's European perspective, and indeed its accession, necessitates the adoption on its part of the preconditions for one being a EU member-state.

In his opening remarks Karamanlis expressed his joy that he was visiting Cyprus for a second time as Prime Minister of Greece, noting that the visit gave him the opportunity for extensive and close cooperation with President Christofias and the whole political leadership of Cyprus.

Karamanlis said that his coordination and cooperation with President Christofias is continuous on bilateral issues and in the framework of the EU.

Referring to the meeting, he said they discussed the talks for a Cyprus settlement and the prospects for the near future.

''We agree with President Christofias that the negotiations should continue until a solution is found,'' Karamanlis said and reiterated that the framework of the solution is ''the UN Security Council resolutions and the principles and values of the EU.''

''The basis of the negotiations that has been agreed by the two sides is the bizonal bicommunal federation with a single sovereignty, a single international identity, a single citizenship. The agreement we all hope will emerge should bear the seal of the two communities without the intervention of third parties and artificial timeframes,'' he pointed out.

Karamanlis said ''Cyprus, as an EU member state, should be represented in a functional and effectual manner and should apply the acquis communautaire.''

''In this context, the EU is a most adequate and efficient guarantee for the security of Cyprus and that is why the existing system of guarantees is needless and anachronistic,'' he added.

Karamanlis also said that he discussed with President Christofias broader EU matters, such as the ratification of the Lisbon Treaty and Turkey's EU prospects, and exchanged views on regional and international issues, with emphasis on the Balkans and the Middle East.

''We reviewed our excellent bilateral relations and prospects, and I would like once again to say how glad I am to be visiting Cyprus again, and to thank you for the invitation and the warm welcome,'' he said.

In his opening remarks at the press conference with Prime Minister Karamanlis, President Christofias expressed his joy for Karamanlis's official visit to Cyprus and noted that it is a follow-up of his visit to Athens last November.

''It is proof in practice of the excellent and sincere relations in all sectors between Cyprus and Greece. We are continuously developing and strengthening these relations,'' he said, adding that ''the relations of our countries and peoples are based on common centuries-old struggles, the common cultural traditions, deep and sincere friendship, and the existence of full coordination and cooperation on various issues of mutual interest.''

President Christofias said that ''the first issue that concerns Cyprus and Greece is the Cyprus problem and efforts to reach a solution that will terminate the occupation and will reunite the territory, the people, the institutions and the economy.''

''I had the opportunity again today to brief in detail the Prime Minister and the delegation accompanying him on develop-ments in the Cyprus problem, and especially regarding the course of the direct negotiations,'' he said.

He added that it is a common evaluation that ''the negotiations between the leaders of the two communities have not recorded the progress we hoped for, although we knew from the beginning the great difficulties in efforts to reach a solution.''

President Christofias said that ''there is progress and convergences on various issues but on various important matters there are serious disagreements and divergences.''

''I wish once again to stress that, irrespective of the course of the negotiations, the Greek Cypriot side will continue to attend them in good will, sincerity and reasonable positions. Faithful to principles, with determination and flexibility, we will continue to work in order to reach a mutually acceptable solution, without timeframes and arbitration,'' he assured.

President Christofias pointed out that ''the aim is to reach a bizonal bicommunal federation with political equality, as defined by relevant UN resolutions, for a federal state with a single sovereignty, a single citizenship and a single interna-tional identity.''

He noted that ''this is the basis of the solution provided for in the UN resolutions on Cyprus and the high level agreements of 1977 and 1979, this is the basis of the solution that the two communities reaffirmed during the preparatory period.''

''We aim at a solution based on the principles of international and European law, and which will safeguard the human rights and fundamental freedoms of the whole of the people, Greek Cypriots, Turkish Cypriots, Maronites, Armenians and Latins,'' he added.

President Christofias said that ''with the Greek Prime Minister we also discussed Turkey's EU accession course in view of the forthcoming evaluation of Turkey in December this year,'' adding that ''it is well known that both Cyprus and Greece support Turkey's European prospect.''

''It is a common view that the accession course, under certain preconditions, can function as a motive to Turkey to cooperate for a just, under the circumstances, solution, which will be viable and functional, will allow the total normalisation of Greco-Turkish relations. Of course, the first and necessary precondition for the smooth continuation of Turkey's accession course is for the country to meet the obligations it has undertaken towards the EU and the Republic of Cyprus, which unfortunately so far it has not done,'' he noted.

He added that they also exchanged views on various international matters of mutual interest, especially the Western Balkans and the Middle East, noting that they determined ''a broad coincidence of views.''

President Christofias said he expressed to Karamanlis the support of the Republic of Cyprus to Greece in its efforts to develop good neighbourly relations with FYROM, and also to solve longstanding conflicts and establish peace, stability, prosperity and democracy, in the context of Greece's presidency of the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE).

''These efforts on behalf of Greece fully comport with the multi-level foreign policy of the government of the Republic of Cyprus, which aims at transforming Cyprus into a bridge of cooperation for the EU with third countries, something for which we are actively working,'' he said.

Concluding his opening remarks, President Christofias expressed the gratitude of the people and the government of Cyprus for the support Karamanlis, the Greek government and the Greek people and political leadership are offering to Cyprus and its people, adding that ''your support is a source of strength for us to continue our struggle.''

On conclusion of the opening remarks, President Christofias said to Karamanlis that ''Cyprus is always your home.''

Earlier on, Karamanlis signed the guest book of the Presidential Palace. ''It is with great emotion that I am visiting the Presidential Palace of the Republic of Cyprus once again, a place that symbolises independence, freedom and democracy in Cyprus and where its agonising modern history is concentrated. I hope that during my next visit here the President of the United Federal Cyprus will receive me,'' Karamanlis wrote in the guest book.

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

President Christofias and Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat have been engaged in UN-led direct negotiations since September 2008, with an aim to reunite the island.

[02] Greek PM: Cypriots must determine their own future

The two communities of Cyprus must decide for themselves -without any interference and arbitration by third parties, and without any artificial timeframes- on how and under what conditions they are going to live together, Greek Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis said here Wednesday, in his speech at a State Banquet given in his honour by Cyprus President Demetris Christofias.

"The Cypriot people, uninfluenced, must determine their own future, within the framework of the large European family and to the benefit of all the lawful residents of the island, Greek-Cypriots and Turkish-Cypriots. In this difficult struggle, we shall always be at your side," the Greek prime minister said.

Karamanlis said his visit to Cyprus manifests "the priority we attribute to the settlement of the Cyprus problem. To this end, our Cyprus policy is based on the principles of respect of the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic of Cyprus."

"Unfortunately, and I underline that with utmost regret, I shall not be able again to visit part of Cyprus due to the continuing presence there of the occupation army. This unacceptable situation constitutes a persistent and flagrant violation of international legality and human rights," he said.

He noted that "our common and steady goal remains the termination of the Turkish occupation and the reunification of the island in the context of a mutually acceptable, just, viable and functional solution. A solution of a bi-communal, bi-zonal federation with a single sovereignty, a single international personality, and a single citizenship. In a few words, a solution based on the United Nations Security Council Resolutions and the principles and values of the European Union, of which Cyprus is a member state."

Karamanlis noted that "we fully support your new great efforts, which are well under way. We firmly believe that the two communities must decide for themselves -without any interference and arbitration by third parties, and without any artificial timeframes- on how and under what conditions they are going to live together. The Cypriot people, uninfluenced, must determine their own future, within the framework of the large European family and to the benefit of all the lawful residents of the island, Greek-Cypriots and Turkish-Cypriots. In this difficult struggle, we shall always be at your side," he underlined.

He noted that to reach an agreement, political will and good faith is required by everyone. "We expect Turkey to rise to the occasion. To distance itself from its past anchylosis and behave according to modern standards and its European aspirations. Unfortunately, until now, its conduct is not encouraging," he noted.

As he stressed "we have supported Turkey's full membership to the European Union. However, we cannot agree to it if the Cyprus problem is not settled and if Turkey has not fulfilled all its obligations towards the European Union. We sincerely strive for the amelioration of the Greek-Turkish relations, because we believe that it will benefit our two peoples."

Karamanlis said that the full normalization of the relations between Greece and Turkey, however, presupposes the respect of international law and the fundamental European principles and, necessarily of course, the solution of the Cyprus problem.

Referring to growth in Cyprus he said that the prosperity and law and order in the Republic of Cyprus are similar to those in the large most developed countries of the world. Moreover, he noted, Cyprus fulfills all the necessary conditions to become the centre and the vehicle for development in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East. In this capacity, the Republic of Cyprus could offer a unique comparative advantage to the European Union for the reinforcement of its role in the wider region.

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

President Christofias and Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat have been engaged in UN-led direct negotiations since September 2008, with an aim to reunite the island.

On his part, President Christofias saidthat there is no convergence on a number of fundamental issues in the direct negotiations to solve the Cyprus problem but nevertheless the Greek Cypriot side is not abandoning the effort, adding that there is no choice but the continuation of efforts to reunite the island.

He noted that the key to the solution is Turkey, which however is not helpful, adding that the Turkish leadership must understand that it is not possible for Turkey to continue to occupy part of the territory of an EU member state and behave provocatively, while at the same time pursuing full accession to the EU.

[03] PM Karamanlis holds talks with Cyprus party leaders

Greek Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis held successive meetings at his hotel here on Wednesday afternoon with the leaders of the ruling Leftist AKEL party, the Democratic Rally (DHSY) party, the European Party and the Ecologists Movement.

AKEL Secretary General Andros Kyprianou, speaking after his meeting with the Greek prime minister, said that there was an identity of views that the result of the so-called elections in the occupied territory of Cyprus will make the process of resolving the problem of Cyprus even more difficult.

Democratic Rally party leader Nikos Anastassiades said that he reiterated to Karamanlis what he had also told him in November 2004, that time must be utilised and initiatives must be taken for a solution to the Cyprus issue.

European Party leader Dimitris Syllouris said that he delivered a memorandum to the Greek prime minister containing his party's positions on the Cyprus issue and the role of Greece and Cyprus in the Euromediterranean dialogue, as well as new proposals on managing affairs.

Ecologists Movement Secretary General Ioanna Panagiotou said that Nicosia and Athens must elaborate a new strategy regarding Turkey's accession course.

Karamanlis also met with the Relatives and Missing and Unregistered Prisoners Committee.

On Thursday, Karamanlis will be meeting the leaders of the Democratic Party (DHKO) and the EDEK Socialdemocrats Movement, as well as with Archbishop Chrysostomos.

[04] Formal reception for Karamanlis in Cyprus

Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis, currently on a two-day official visit to Cyprus begun early on Wednesday afternoon, was formally received at the Gardens of the Presidential Mansion by Cyprus President Demetris Christofias and his wife Elsi.

Karamanlis, who is accompanied by his wife Natassa, laid a wreath at the statue of Archbishop Makarios III, the first president of the Republic of Cyprus, followed by the presentation of the two state delegations and the exchange of gifts.

Also accompanying the Greek premier are Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis, government spokesman Evangelos Antonaros and a delegation of Greek government officials.

Before the talks between the two government delegations were launched, President Christofias underlined the importance of the visit, stating that it further strengthens the traditionally close relations between the two countries. He also referred to the "not so pleasant" developments in the Cyprus talks and thanked Greece for its constant support and help.

The Greek prime minister assured him that the close cooperation between the Greek and the Cypriot governments will continue.

Late in the afternoon, Karamanlis will have separate meetings with the Cypriot political party leaders.

President Christofias and his wife will host a formal dinner at 9.00 pm in honour of the premier and his wife.

[05] Natassa Karamanlis offers first aid to fainting cameraman

Natassa Karamanlis, wife of Greek Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis, offered first aid to a cameraman of a private television channel who was providing footage on her visit to the Archaeological Museum here on Wednesday afternoon.

The cameraman felt unwell and lost consciousness and Natasha Karamanlis hastened to offer him first aid.

An ambulance was then called that took the cameraman to Nicosia General Hospital.

[06] Clinton says U.S. does not intend to impose Cyprus solution

The United States does not intend to impose a solution to the protracted Cyprus problem, U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton told the U.S. House Committee on Foreign Affairs on Wednesday.

Responding to relevant questions, Clinton noted: "We're going to do everything we can, to support the Cypriots reaching their own solution. I think that previous efforts have unfortunately resulted in a feeling, by certainly the Greek Cypriots, that things were attempted to be imposed on them. And we want the parties to reach an agreement. And that's what we are supporting."

"The (2004 UN Annan) plan was rejected because it was unacceptable to the Greek Cypriots. We have taken the position that this must be a settlememt that the two parties agree to themselves. We don't intend to impose anything. We intend to support, insofar as we are able, the negotiations between the parties for what we believe is the best outcome: a bizonal, bicommunal federation that would represent fairly the interests of both communities," Clinton added.

Referring to her recent meetings with Cyprus Foreign Minister Marcos Kyprianou and Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat in Washington, the Secretary of State said: "We have told each side that we support their very diligent efforts, to try to resolve these matters, including security issues and troop presence."

Cyprus President Demetris Christofias and Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat have been engaged in direct negotiations since September 2008 with a view to solve the question of Cyprus, which has been divided since 1974 when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third.

[07] Parliamentary committee convenes on Pavlidis case

Evidence documenting the movements of bank accounts belonging to the protagonists in the Pavlidis case was presented to the parliamentary investigation committee on Tuesday evening, within the framework of the preliminary investigation underway.

Copies of bank account transaction slips were handed over to the representatives of the political parties, while the parliamentary committee chairman has requested the assistance of Bank of Greece experts to further process the evidence collected.

During Wednesday's session, the committee finally decided to hold a vote regarding PASOK's request for more charges next Monday, after examining additional material regarding the bank account movements submitted on Wednesday and a report by central bank experts expected by the end of the week.

A parliamentary investigation of the former minister was launched after ship owner Fotis Manoussis claimed that Pavlidis had demanded kickbacks via an aide in his office in order to award the ship owner a subsidised route to remote islands. Pavlidis has denied the charge, insisting on his innocence, and has refused to resign from his seat in Parliament.

[08] PASOK spokesman on Pavlidis case

"We note that all the opposition parties agree on this direction and that ND is remaining alone today to opt for a coverup. It will be judged for this by the Greek citizens," Papaconstantinou added.

Asked whether he believes that after the Investigating Committee's report national elections will be coming closer, Papaconstantinou reiterated his failure to realise how ND "will be able to continue to rule, if it has a deputy in its ranks, who has been charged with a decision taken by Parliament."

[09] Papandreou deplores state of health care

"The government has abandoned the health system, abandoned the infrastucture and neglected the medical staff for the last five years. It does not invest in health and does not spend the necessary funds" stated Papandreou.

"It makes me furious that Greece is at the same time being targeted by the European Union for a 5 percent public deficit and 80 billion euros additional state debt resulting from 5 years of New Democracy's governance. Where did this money go, the money of the Greek people, is the simple question put by all Greek citizens. It definitely did not go into health nor education, definitely not into welfare, but to waste and the government's cronies" stressed Papandreou.

Papandreou promised that, in spite of the difficult economic conjucture, PASOK as a government will find the money to hire the staff needed in the state health system, adding that at least 3,000 nurses will be hired each year.

[10] EU Commissioner Rehn holds talks with FYROM FM

European Union Enlargement Commissioner Olli Rehn, speaking after meeting Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (fYRoM) Foreign Minister Antonio Milososki here on Wednesday, said that 2009 is an important year for resolving the issue of the country's name, particularly following the renewal of the popular mandate received by the government in the recent elections.

Replying to a question on whether he has received specific assurances from Greece and fYRoM, on a solution to the name issue this year, Olli Rehn said that he had a constructive discussion with Antonio Milososki, in which he recalled the benefits for both sides from the finding of a solution, which he calls on to renew their commitment in this direction.

[11] Clinton on fYRoM 'name issue'

U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said Wednesday, while addressing the U.S. House Committee on Foreign Affairs, that Washington "strongly supports efforts for a mutually acceptable name" for the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (fYRoM).

"We understand Greece's sensitivities. I have discussed the issue with our NATO partners, as well as in my meetings in the European Union. And we have encouraged all sides to reach an acceptable solution," Clinton added.

[12] Interior ministry human rights report to national commission

The report runs to several pages and includes actions and initiatives begun by the interior ministry up until the end of 2008.

On issues of nationality, the report said that 9,071 people acquired Greek nationality by the end of 2008, of which 645 were foreigners and the rest were ethnic Greeks with foreign nationality, the vast majority of which hailed from north Epirus (southern Albania).

The report also pointed to efforts to facilitate the integration of immigrants, such as efforts to simplify and speed up the issue of residence permits.

In terms of illegal immigrants, the report said the Aeneas programme sought to financially support countries that immigrants originated from in order to accept their return and said that problems had arisen with Turkey, which was refusing to comply with a protocol to re-accept immigrants that had left from its shores and had so far accepted only 7,442 out of a total of 57,428 applications to return immigrants, of which only 2,182 had been carried out.

[13] President Papoulias to visit Finland in May

The visit is being carried out at the invitation of Finnish President Tarja Halonen.

Financial News

[14] Finmin: deficit targets unchanged

The government was determined to make any adjustments necessary in order to meet fiscal targets within the set deadlines, he added.

"We have made it clear that by June we will have a clear picture about the course of executing the budget for 2009 and the results of the measures we have already announced," Papathanassiou said.

Noting that the general government deficit for 2008 had unequivocally reached 5 percent of GDP, the minister said that the increase of the deficit relative to the 3.7 percent of GDP forecast in the Stability and Growth Pact was due to the reduced surpluses of broader state-sector bodies like social insurance funds and other organisations, brought about by a reduction in revenues caused by the economic crisis and increased spending on interest payments.

Another reason cited by Papathanassiou for the increased deficit in 2008 were inflows from EU funds that were originally scheduled to be paid out by the end of 2008 but would finally be paid within 2009. While these increased the government deficit by 0.5 percent of GDP in 2008, it would act to decrease the 2009 deficit by the equivalent amount, he added.

[15] Greek public deficit at 5 pct, Eurostat reports

Government deficits and debts in the EU and the Euro area skyrocketed in 2008, based on data released on Wednesday by Eurostat, the statistical office of the European Commission. In Greece, the government deficit increased from 3.6 pct to 5 pct.

In 2008, government deficits and government debts in the Euro area and in the EU27 increased compared with 2007. In the Euro area, the government deficit to GDP ratio increased from 0.6 pct in 2007 to 1.9 pct in 2008, and in the EU27 it increased from 0.8 pct to 2.3 pct.

In 2008, the largest government deficits as a percentage of GDP were recorded by Ireland (-7.1 pct), the United Kingdom (-5.5 pct), Romania (-5.4 pct), Greece (-5.0 pct), Malta (-4.7 pct), Latvia (-4.0 pct), Poland (-3.9 pct), Spain (-3.8 pct), France (-3.4 pct), Hungary (-3.4 pct), Lithuania (-3.2 pct) and Estonia (-3.0 pct). Seven member-states registered a government surplus in 2008: Finland (+4.2 pct), Denmark (+3.6 pct), Luxembourg (+2.6 pct), Sweden (+2.5 pct), Bulgaria (+1.5 pct), the Netherlands (+1.0 pct) and Cyprus (+0.9 pct). In all, five member-states saw an improved government balance relative to GDP in 2008 compared with 2007, in 21 the ratio deteriorated and one remained unchanged.

In the Euro area, the government debt to GDP ratio increased from 66.0 pct at the end of 2007 to 69.3 pct at the end of 2008, and in the EU27 from 58.7 pct to 61.5 pct.

Nine member states had government debt ratios higher than 60 pct of GDP in 2008: Italy (105.8 pct), Greece (97.6 pct) (from 94.8 pct in 2007), Belgium (89.6 pct), Hungary (73.0 pct), France (68.0 pct), Portugal (66.4 pct), Germany (65.9 pct), Malta (64.1 pct) and Austria (62.5 pct). The lowest ratios of government debt to GDP were recorded in Estonia (4.8 pct), Romania (13.6 pct), Bulgaria (14.1 pct), Luxembourg (14.7 pct) and Lithuania (15.6 pct).

According to Eurostat, public spending in Greece reached 44.9 pct of GDP in 2008 compared to 44 pct in 2007, while public revenues dropped to 40 pct in 2008 from 40.1 pct in 2007.

Eurostat expressed reservations about the data supplied by Denmark and the United Kingdom, while there was no reservation about figures supplied by Greece, as was the case in the past.

[16] EU Commission on Eurostat figures

Making economic forecasts was a "risky undertaking" under current economic conditions, noted Amelia Torres, spokes-person for European Commissioner for economic and monetary affairs Joaquin Almunia, on Wednesday. She was replying to questions about the revision of fiscal figures by a number of EU member states, Greece included.

"Public revenues decrease while state spending increases in many countries as a result of the economic crisis," she stressed, referring to the public debt and deficit figures of the EU states made public by Eurostat on Wednesday, adding that in periods of economic crisis it was logical to have such revisions.

The forecasts on the course of the economy made by many international organizations, the European Commission included, have been overturned, she pointed out, underlining the extensive deterioration of EU state economies.

Responding to a question on Greece and whether the goal of reducing the fiscal deficit to below 3 pct by 2010 still applied, Torres replied affirmatively, stressing that this was the target set by the Greek government. She also pointed out that Greece is not the only EU country with a deteriorating fiscal situation, taking into consideration the European Commission figures predicted in January.

In response to other questions, Torres said that the European Commission was postponing attempts to achieve zero deficits until after economic recovery was achieved, and for the time being placing emphasis on correcting excessive deficits (over 3 pct of the GDP) seen in some countries.

[17] PASOK on public deficit, debt

"The government is exposed and has a duty to answer to the Greek people, justifying the skyrocketing public deficit that reached 5 pct of the GDP, 8 billion euros more than the original target set, and the rising public debt that exceeded initial forecasts by 14 billion euros," she stressed.

Katseli also underlined that "the government is accountable not only for mismanagement and unsound choices that led the economy to a dead end but also for not revealing figures over the past few months, a practice serving as an alibi for the incoherent policy adopted."

"The government has to change for the economic policy to also change," she underlined.

[18] FinMin on statements by Papandreou on economy

Papathanasiou stressed that "the truth is that if the government had implemented the proposals of PASOK, today the deficit and the debt would have even surpassed the levels of 2004, when PASOK delivered the deficit to us at 7.5 pct of GDP and the debt at 100 pct of GDP. And indeed, at a time of international economic growth and not crisis, as the one that we have been experiencing for about two years."

The finance minister concluded by saying that "for us, the handling of the crisis is not an issue for political exploitation. It is an issue of responsibility towards the citizens. It is the great opportunity to correct the longlasting weaknesses that are inconveniencing the country. It is the time for us to take decisions that will allow us to secure a strong economy and a fairer society."

[19] GSEE on Eurostat announcement

According to the announcement, "the 5th revision of the deficit in four months (today's from 3.6 to 5 percent of GDP) not only proves the lack of reliability and seriousness, but unfortunately the huge responsibility of managing public finances as well that rocketed the deficit and the debt of the country to 97 percent of GDP, and indeed at a time when the toughest of antilabour policies are being exercised."

GSEE noted that "these negative figures are the result of the neo-liberal policies that use state money to widen the privileges and the profits of capital and the dramatic decrease of social and economic benefits for working people."

GSEE further said that it was "imperative for the government to deal immediately with the paraeconomy, tax evasion and tax theft and to receive taxes from the haves, the bankers and the businessmen."

[20] Bulgarian FM on energy security conference

Greek Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis will be participating in the international conference on energy security issues that will be taking place here at the end of this week, with the participation of political leaders from 26 countries, European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso and officials of the European Reconstruction and Development Bank as well as of other international organisations.

This was announced on Wednesday by Bulgarian Foreign Minister Ivailo Kalfin, who added that presidents or prime ministers from 10 countries in the wider region will be participating in the Sofia forum.

Kalfin said that an exchange of views will be taking place at the conference on the South Stream pipeline, while the criterion will be the best and most competitive supplying of the European Union with natural gas.

The head of Bulgarian diplomacy referred to the absence of Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin from the conference and explained that Russia's representation "only by Energy Minister Sergei Smatko is due to the pending issues that did not allow the signing of the agreement on the South Stream pipeline."

He added that "we are continuing to attribute special importance on this plan, that we consider a priority of ours, but we believe that the project will only be viable and productive in the event that the legal interests of all the interested countries are safeguarded, including Bulgaria as well."

[21] Development ministry drive to reduce milk prices

Deputy Development Minister George Vlachos met representatives of the dairy industry on Wednesday and brokered an agreement regarding the new market regulations, which will be first be discussed with retail traders.

The new market regulations will require labels that differentiate between fresh milk and ultra pasteurisation milk on the packaging and supermarket shelves, as well as labelling indicating the country of origin, again on the packaging and the shelf.

Vlachos, on his part, asked dairy factories to support Greek production and not to go through with a decision to stop buying from Greek dairy farmers in the near future.

The meeting also raised the issue of returned milk, where Vlachos promised to pressure super markets to improve policy for placing orders so that returns were minimised.

[22] Hellenic Postbank's General Assembly decisions

The new shares will have the right to obtain dividends from the profits of the current fiscal year and onwards, provided that the Regular General Assembly decides the distribution of dividends for the fiscal year.

On the question of the new shares' sale price, the General Assembly decided to authorise the bank's board to decide itself on the sale price of the new shares within a time limit that cannot exceed 12 months.

[23] Greek stocks rise by 0.74 pct

Most sectors ended higher with Financial Services (4.64 pct), Raw Materials (4.06 pct) and Chemicals (2.37 pct) posting the biggest percentage gains, while Travel & Leisure (1.68 pct), Utilities (1.04 pct) and Personal & Household (0.19 pct) registering the biggest losses.

The FTSE/20 index ended 0.79 pct up, the FTSE/40 rose by 1.31 pct and the FTSE/80 rose by 1.12 pc.

Broadly, advancers led decliners by 144 to 62, while 52 remained unchanged.

Sector indices ended as follows:

Insurance: +0.56%

Industrials: +1.80%

Commercial: +1.73%

Construction: +1.23%

Media: +1.91%

Oil & Gas: +2.02%

Personal & Household: -0.19%

Raw Materials: +4.06%

Travel & Leisure: -1.68%

Technology: +0.10%

Telecoms: unchanged

Banks: +1.36%

Food & Beverages: +0.96%

Health: +0.03%

Utilities: -1.04%

Chemicals: +2.37%

Financial Services: +4.64%

The stocks with the highest turnover were National Bank, Hellenic Telecommunications Organisation (OTE), OPAP and Alpha Bank.

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

Alpha Bank: 6.61

ATEbank: 1.20

Public Power Corp (PPC): 14.82

HBC Coca Cola: 11.90

Hellenic Petroleum: 7.06

National Bank of Greece: 13.81

EFG Eurobank Ergasias: 5.52

Intralot: 4.35

OPAP: 21.00

OTE: 11.78

Bank of Piraeus: 6.12

Titan Cement Company: 16.57

[24] ADEX closing report

Volume in futures contracts on equities totaled 20,651 contracts worth 17.041 million euros, with investment interest focusing on National Bank's contracts (7,095), followed by Marfin Popular Bank (2,444), Alpha Bank (2,118), Piraeus Bank (1,838), OTE (1,424) and Bank of Cyprus (982).

[25] Greek bond market closing report

In interbank markets, interest rates remained unchanged. The 12-month Euribor rate was 1.76 pct, the six-month was 1.60 pct, the three-month 1.40 pct and the one-month rate 1 pct.

[26] Foreign Exchange rates - Thursday

U.S. dollar 1.305

Pound sterling 0.895

Danish kroner 7.508

Swedish kroner 11.125

Japanese yen 127.86

Swiss franc 1.524

Norwegian kroner 8.830

Canadian dollar 1.623

Australian dollar 1.851

General News

[27] Municipalities given right to use shoreline common land

This right can be fully or partially transferred by any municipal authority to any fully municipal or community enterprise that it owns, for activities that provide services to the public and swimmers, until December 31, 2012.

The minister's decision stipulates that there must be no change that alters the natural morphology or habitat of these areas, such as the construction of any kind of building or structure, tents or the parking caravans or cars.

[28] Professor Eugene Fama given international Onassis Award

Professor Fama is considered by the international scientific community as being the father of empirical monetary studies and is credited with the recognition of the effective market model, which constitutes the monetary theory that has affected, more than anything else, both academic studies and monetary markets.

The Onassis Award, which is accompanied by the amount of 250,000 dollars, is given every two years in recognition of the lifelong contribution by leading academics and researchers to the sectors of maritime, commercial and monetary studies.

[29] 5th Games Festival opens in Thessaloniki

The athletes registered to participate come from European countries, China, India, Singapore, Peru, South Africa, Tunisia, Brazil, Egypt, and the United States. The festival is held for the first time in Thessaloniki (all previous events were held in Halkidiki Prefecture) featuring competitions in popular games, exhibitions of less popular board games and seminars for athletes, coaches, and referees.

The festival will run until May 4.

[30] Student conference in northern Greece simulates UN bodies

The 8th Thessaloniki International Student Model United Nations (ThessISMUN) 2009 is in essence an educational game allowing the participating students, representing 22 universities, to test their skills in diplomacy.

Weather Forecast

[31] Cloudy, rainy on Thursday

[32] The Wednesday edition of Athens dailies at a glance

ADESMEFTOS TYPOS: "No incriminating evidence on Pavlidis - Popular Orthodox Rally (LAOS) has not clarified whether it will support an indictment".

APOGEVMATINI: "13,979 job opportunities in public sector".

AVGHI: "Wage earners and pensioners forced to pay over 5 billion euros to meet European Commission's demand to lower public deficit".

AVRIANI: "Managers of Siemens slush funds are silent partners in major Greek companies".

TO VIMA: "The kickbacks continued until 2008! Revealing testimony by Siemens executives".

VRADYNI: "Settlement of debts to social security funds with exceptionally favourable terms for the debtors".

ETHNOS: "A host of jobbery hirings on Good Thursday at the defence ministry brings 55 'blue' ND supporters to Greek Pentagon.

ELEFTHEROS : "Government's future in the hands of LAOS leader George Karatzaferis".

ELEFTHEROS TYPOS: "The documents on Siemens kickbacks are arriving by courier. Damning evidence from Swiss bank accounts to prosecutor about C4I".

ELEFTHEROTYPIA: "14 red lights to banks - End to exploitative fine print clauses in contracts".

ESTIA: "Rumours about early elections laughable. No chance that [general elections] will coincide with European elections".

KATHIMERINI: "The deficit a precursor to new measures. Forecasts for exponential rise in public debt in 2010".

LOGOS: "Bad news brings new package of measures - Economy ministry leadership preparing the way. European Commission's report today".

TA NEA: "Cheap ......houses a play in the elections' game - Major gift to building contractors".

NIKI: "Government injured - With a slim minority in parliament, it is making life hard for voters".

RIZOSPASTIS: "We must punish ND and main opposition PASOK with action and a vote for the Communist Party".

CHORA: "The wager for growth is in real estate - Government seeking 5.5 billion euros in revenues for 2010".

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