Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English, 13-09-23

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

CONTENTS

[01] Troika-government near agreement on size of primary surplus, recession, official says

[02] Troika satisfied after meeting Greece's anti-corruption coordinator Tentes

[03] "No happy end in troika negotiations," SYRIZA says

[04] DIMAR urges tougher stance in talks with troika

[05] Greek issues, Syria crisis dominated UN chief's talks with FM Venizelos

[06] PM Samaras stresses unity in fighting neo-Nazism, defending democratic legitimacy

[07] Tsipras: Austerity policy responsible for Golden Dawn's rise

[08] Gov't spokesman on Tsipras' interview to Austrian newspaper

[09] DIMAR leader calls democratic parties to set up front against neonazis

[10] "Distressing to have a new-Nazi party in Parliament," Dendias says

[11] KKE leader urges people to 'overthrow monopolies'

[12] DIMAR Central Committee meeting concluded

[13] Man accused of Fyssas stabbing remanded in custody pending trial

[14] ADEDY calls fresh 48-hour strike for Tuesday, Wednesday

[15] Foreign Exchange rates - Monday

[16] Hatzidakis to attend bioclimatic nursery opening day in Marousi

[17] Golden Dawn members arrested for illegal possession of weapons

[18] Human traffickers arrested

[19] Teachers to strike on Mon. and Tues.

[20] Molotov attack outside PASOK offices, central Athens

[21] Super League results

[22] Weather forecast for Monday

[23] Athens' Sunday newspapers at a glance Politics

[01] Troika-government near agreement on size of primary surplus, recession, official says

Given that recent estimates by senior finance ministry officials put the rate of recession at 3.8 percent of GDP, this leads to the conclusion that the troika sees the Greek economy shrinking by about 3.9 percent in 2013, as opposed to its initial forecast of about 4.2 percent.

According to the same source, Sunday's talks touched on all issues but focused mainly on the execution of the 2013 budget and the estimates for the end of the year. The talks on this issue are expected to continue throughout the coming week, since there is disagreement between the two sides on four or five entries in the budget relating to revenues and spending.

Conversely, the finance ministry and the troika are far from convergence on the figures for the 2014 budget, given that several general government services have not yet supplied complete figures.

Regarding the remaining issues discussed during Sunday's meeting, the senior ministry official said these included a unified property tax to be imposed from 2014, both in terms of the revenue this will generate and the extent that this can be collected, as well as the preparatory work at the General Accounting Office for taxes collected for third parties.

Other topics covered were tax-collection mechanisms, structural changes and the collection of overdue private debts to the state, where the finance ministry is looking at alternative scenarios for the 8.0 billion euros due from individuals and private enterprises by the end of this year, considering that the specific target is unlikely under normal conditions.

The same official said that discussion on Sunday did not cover the four prior actions that Greece must carry out for the next tranche of bailout loans, amounting to 1.0 billion euros. He pointed out that there had been extensive discussion with troika technical teams on Friday regarding a restructuring of the state enterprises Hellenic Defence Systems (EAS), Hellenic Vehicle Industry (ELVO) and Larco, while state debts to the water companies EYDAP and EYATh are due to be settled by the end of next week.

Concerning planned privatisations, discussion on this issue was postponed until after the troika is briefed by the Hellenic Republic Asset Development Fund on Monday.

Based on plans so far, the troika's inspections will be carried out in three stages: in the first stage lasting until October 10, they will examine implementation of prior actions required for the disbursement of the next bailout loan tranche. Such prior actions include finalizing restructuring plans for the defense industries EAS, ELVO and Larco, the settlement of outstanding state debts to state water companies EYDAP and EYATh, placing 12,500 civil servants in the so-called mobility scheme by the end of September and adopting a new code for practice for lawyers.

Negotiations with the troika heads will then be suspended for the IMF annual meeting of October 11-13 and a Eurogroup meeting on October 14. The second stage will open in late October, focusing on updating the bailout Memorandum of Understanding and making up for the 2015-2016 fiscal gap, estimated by the troika at 4.0 to 5.0 billion euros and by the Greek government at 2.5 billion euros.

The "hot" issue of the financing gap (estimated by the IMF at 10.9 billion euros), will be the focus of the third stage of troika inspections in November and December.

[02] Troika satisfied after meeting Greece's anti-corruption coordinator Tentes

During talks with Tentes, the troika experts stressed that corruption must be dealt with so that Greece might regain its lost credibility.

Participants included Gabriele Giudice and Guillaume Prevost from the European Commission, Asimina Koutsoukou and Nicholai Benalai from the European Central Bank (ECB), Gianluca Esposito and Marialena Athanasopoulou from the International Monetary Fund and Tentes and his team.

The meeting concluded that since the institution of national coordinator against corruption was set up about three months ago, 70 percent of the targets of the national plan had been successfully launched.

Tentes outlined his targets and priorities and said that his goal was to complete a final strategic plan against corruption by next February.

[03] "No happy end in troika negotiations," SYRIZA says

"(Prime Minister Antonis) Samaras and (government vice-president Evangelos) Venizelos, who harmonically cooperate with the troika, are preparing to close down state enterprises of strategic importance (defence industries EAS, ELVO, LARKO), as well as to fire public employees and once more cut auxiliary pensions, remaining loyal to the disastrous policy of the bailout Memorandum, which has driven the society and the economy to a tragic deadlock," SYRIZA said in a press release.

"However, society's resistance is increasing and a change in directions is a one-way solution. The countdown has begun."

[04] DIMAR urges tougher stance in talks with troika

He also called for liquidity to the real economy, modification of ineffective measures like the tax increase to heating oil, or the measures allowing households to settle debts to banks and the state, continued protection of primary residences and emergency, large-scale measures to support the unemployed, guarantee a minimum income and give universal access to health care.

Kouvelis said the government must work on a new deal with Greece's partners, without new measures, that will reduce the debt burden and give a strong developmental boost to the country, noting that these measures "will make possible a recovery of the economy and of society."

[05] Greek issues, Syria crisis dominated UN chief's talks with FM Venizelos

In statements to reporters after meeting United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon in New York on Sunday, government Vice-President and Foreign Minister Evangelos Venizelos repeated Greece's position concerning the name of the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia.

"We are in favour of a mutually accepted composite name with a geographical determinant, applicable for all uses. A single name for every usage. A final, clear and functional solution," he underlined.

He said the meeting with the UN Secretary General had focused chiefly on major foreign policy issues of interest to Greece, especially the name dispute with FYROM and the Cyprus issue, as well as the crisis in Syria and matters relating to the future of the UN.

The minister noted that the UN's envoy for the name issue Matthew Nimetz had also been present at the meeting and that the UN chief appeared well briefed on the Greek position, which was supported by a broad range of Greek political forces.

"In this way our neighbouring country will be able to fulfil its EuroAtlantic prospects and this is very important for them and us, because we want all the western Balkans to find this common prospect, which acts to stabilise the region," he added.

On the Cyprus issue, he said that there was now a new momentum, due to the specific proposals made by Cyprus President Nicos Anastasiades and a comprehensive proposal for confidence building measures relating to Famagusta, which he said could give rise to new ideas and momentum.

"We have the appointment of negotiators from both communities, something that is very important. And, of course, it is important to have the European Union present because any solution must take into account Community laws and must be accepted by the Cypriot people through a referendum, because this is the only way for a solution to be legitimised and viable," he said.

Concerning Syria, he repeated that Greece was in favour of a political solution via a 'Geneva 2'-style process and sought answers concerning the use of chemical weapons. He noted that the U.S.-Russia agreement had created a framework and that this was very important, because it allowed the UN Security Council to play its role, not just for Syria but for all international issues.

Venizelos also referred to the humantarian aspects of the Syria crisis, saying that Greece had co-signed an article with 24 foreign ministers placing the main focus on the humantarian aspect and the suffering of ordinary civilians, including children.

Replying to questions, he confirmed that the goal was to begin talks on the Cyprus issue in October and, concerning a trilateral meeting between Greece, Cyprus and Egypt to discuss maritime zones, Venizelos noted that this was not an issue that directly concerning the United Nations. He described the meeting as "important" but denied that it sent a "message" to Turkey or any other country, stressing that its goal was peace, security and stability in the Mediterranean.

[06] PM Samaras stresses unity in fighting neo-Nazism, defending democratic legitimacy

Samaras appeared determined to oppose, as he put it, the criminal activity of neo-Nazis, in order to protect the Constitution and democratic legitimacy.

"Democracy is not undefended, it has the means to defend itself against the challenges and will use them all in the most efficient way," the premier emphasised, adding that the people's unity is necessary for the defense of democratic legitimacy.

"The tough time we are going through in order to deal with the crisis will soon be over. But the decline of division, should we tolerate violence and tension, will not end until the country is destroyed. We will never allow this. We are uniting the country and arming democracy," Samaras concluded.

[07] Tsipras: Austerity policy responsible for Golden Dawn's rise

SYRIZA leader Alexis Tsipras addressing an open discussion late Friday in Vienna at the "Bruno Kreisky Forum for the International Dialogue" referred to Golden Dawn party and to the murder of Pavlos Fyssas. He said it was a political murder from Golden Dawn's commando units which, however, did not surprise SYRIZA, because that's where the "barbarous policies and the credibility crisis of the political system in Greece" has led us.

The political situation in Greece is vague with a mixture of political expectations as well as fear of the neonazis, said Tsipras and clarified that he is convinced that the police and armed forces are not a threat for democracy. He also opined that Golden Dawn should not be set out of the law but to stand before the law.

On the economic crisis in Greece and in Europe, Tsipras said that his party doesn't intend to govern for three months but for many years and that they are ready and have the knowledge to take the risk and the responsibility "The first thing SYRIZA's government will do is to re-distribute the existing sources in order to support the weaker and afterwards it will begin a real negotiation with our EU partners in order a solution to be found within the European framework.

The main opposition leader stressed that it is crucial that the European people are convinced that SYRIZA is not giving a national battle but a battle for Europe and clarified that he is not against Europe adding that he supports a Europe of the people a united Europe that either will be socially just and will have solidarity or it will not exist.

He said that a solution must be found for Greece's debt that will cancel a large part of it in order to become sustainable adding that from the 200 billion euros that Greece have received as loan only 1, 5 percent has gone to real economy and the other 98 percent was given to the banks and for the repayment of older loans' interests.

[08] Gov't spokesman on Tsipras' interview to Austrian newspaper

Of course, continued Kediglou, he has a long way until he returns to reality, he added.

[09] DIMAR leader calls democratic parties to set up front against neonazis

Kouvelis noted that the political differences or oppositions must not hamper the unity against the 'absolute evil' and called for the immediate voting of the new antiracist law.

"The voting of the new antiracist law that was annulled by New Democracy (ND) circles and the elimination of Golden Dawn's (Chryssi Avghi) parastate mechanism must be propelled immediately. Golden Dawn's political and social isolation is a democratic duty" said Kouvelis and underlined that the death of antifascist Pavlos Fyssas in Keratsini and the murder attack against Communist Party (KKE) members in Perama are growing dangerously the blood circle in the country and threaten the democracy and the normality.

[10] "Distressing to have a new-Nazi party in Parliament," Dendias says

In an interview with Sunday's edition of the Real News newspaper, Dendias said it was distressing that a neo-Nazi entity was voted by the Greek people to hold seats in Parliament. He revealed that he had already sent a proposal to Interior minister Yiannis Michalakis regarding the interruption of state subsidies to political parties being investigated for possible criminal acts by their members and/or supporters.

Dendias noted that there is clear evidence of a "criminal organisation" on the basis of specific incidents involving Golden Dawn members, for which he had already asked the Supreme Court's judgment.

The minister distanced himself from the view that the main opposition Radical Left Coalition (SYRIZA) is an extreme political party in its entirety. He stressed, however, that SYRIZA should be prudent and reject the extreme voices from its ranks.

[11] KKE leader urges people to 'overthrow monopolies'

He also stressed that KKE's 19th conference had shown the path for growth and for harnessing the country's productive potential in order to overthrow the power of monopolies, with central scientific planning, a loosening of links with the EU, unilateral writing-off of Greece's debt, a socialisation of monopolies and "popular, working-class power".

According to Koutsoumbas, all other proposals for management and power gave the kiss of life to a dying system, which was becoming ever more hostile and repulsive for the working class and the people, while a similar 'kiss of life' and the time to recover from the crisis would be given by any government formed with SYRIZA at its core.

[12] DIMAR Central Committee meeting concluded

The meeting also looked into the preparation of the party's congress.

The Central Committee approved by large majority the recommendations made by party leader Fotis Kouvelis.

DIMAR's Second Congress is to be held in mid December and during the meeting the Committee of Positions and the Organising Committee were set up.

[13] Man accused of Fyssas stabbing remanded in custody pending trial

The accused is facing charges of premeditated manslaughter and illegal weapon possession.

The suspect in his testimony to the magistrate said he felt sorry for his action adding that he has a 'loose relation' with Golden Dawn. He also said that he was member of a left movement in the past.

Referring to the incident, he said he was drinking his coffee in a cafe and attempted to leave with car when two groups of unknown individuals attacked him and he impulsively used his knife adding that by the time of the tragic incident he was by himself.

According to information, during his testimony the suspect burst into tears and said that he destroyed two families, his own and that of the unlucky boy.

The 45 year-old has two children and was working as a truck driver.

Financial News

[14] ADEDY calls fresh 48-hour strike for Tuesday, Wednesday

ADEDY is in communication with the General Confederation of Employees of Greece (GSEE) umbrella trade union group in an attempt to turn Tuesday's strike into to a general strike.

On the same day, public and private sector trade unions will hold a joint rally in central Athens' Klafthmonos square at 10:30.

GSEE is expected to take final decisions on escalation of industrial action on Monday morning.

Meanwhile, trade unions announced an anti-fascism rally to be held in Syntagma square on Wednesday afternoon at 18:00.

Employees with social security funds have also called fresh 48-hour rolling strikes starting Monday.

In the education sector, secondary educators have called a two-day strike for Monday and Tuesday.

[15] Foreign Exchange rates - Monday

U.S. dollar 1.371

Pound sterling 0.856

Danish kroner 7.568

Swedish kroner 8.725

Japanese yen 136.59

Swiss franc 1.251

Norwegian kroner 8.126

Canadian dollar 1.410

Australian dollar 1.456

General News

[16] Hatzidakis to attend bioclimatic nursery opening day in Marousi

The nursery is among another 105 such bioclimatic kindergarten buildings being constructed with funds from the National Strategic Reference Framework?(ESPA).

Earlier, Hatzidakis is scheduled to meet with Israel's ambassador to Greece, Arye Mekel. Topics of discussion will include the energy agreement between Cyprus, Greece and Israel and Greece's investment opportunities.

[17] Golden Dawn members arrested for illegal possession of weapons

On their possession police officers who were patrolling the area found clubs, an iron bar, tear gas sprays and jack knives.

A raid in the suspects' residences revealed a metal club, tear gas sprays, and iron glove and an air gun.

At a separate incident, three persons were arrested outside Golden Dawn's offices in the city of Halkida on Friday night. Police said that the suspects possessed helmets, sticks and shields.

[18] Human traffickers arrested

The three suspects were transferred to the island and will be sent before Zakynthos prosecutor.

The 27 undocumented migrants are still on the island and were offered a 30-day temporary residence permit in Greece.

[19] Teachers to strike on Mon. and Tues.

The teachers will re-examine their stance in new meetings that will be held on Tuesday and Wednesday.

[20] Molotov attack outside PASOK offices, central Athens

The attack caused damage to three parked cars. ???

Soccer

[21] Super League results

In other action:

Asteras Tripoli-Kalloni Mytilini 2-0

Atromitos Athens-Apollon Smyrnis (Athens) 2-0

Panathinaikos-OFI Crete 1-0

PAOK Thessaloniki-Platanias Crete 1-0

Ergotelis Crete-Panionios Athens 1-1

Levadiakos-PAS Yiannena 1-0

Panthrakikos Xanthi-Veria 1-0

Xanthi-Aris Thessaloniki (playing Sept. 23)

Standings after 5 weeks of play:

1.Olympiakos 13

2.PAOK 12

3. Asteras Tripoli 9

4. Kalloni 9

5. Panathinaikos 8

6. Panthrakikos Xanthi 8

7. PAS Yiannena 7

8. Atromitos Athens 7

9. Ergotelis 7

10. Panionios Athens 6

11. Veria 5

12. Levadiakos 5

13. Panetolikos 5

14. Xanthi 4 (4 matches played)

15. Platanias Crete 4

16. Apollon Smyrnis (Athens) 3

17. OFI Crete 3

18. Aris Thessaloniki 1 (4 matches played)

Weather forecast

[22] Weather forecast for Monday

[23] Athens' Sunday newspapers at a glance

ETHNOS: "Crime and ring"

AVGI: "Gov't tension throw of the dice"

VRADINI: "Solution for forest land and building societies"

EPOCHI: "From flirt to withdrawing?"

KATHIMERINI: "Golden Dawn: From fringe to crime"

NIKI TIS DEMOKRATIAS: "Credit cards - 7 ways for hair-cut of up to 80 pct"

DEMOKRATIA: "Tsipras' deputy charged with felony"

ELEFTHEROTYPIA: "Anti-terrorism Squad hunting for 6 Golden Dawn members"

RIZOSPASTIS: "Common struggle needed by the youth and the people's movement"

LOGOS: "Greeks' taxpaying ability runs dry"

PROTO THEMA: "Never forget fascism"

TO ARTHRO: "Stournaras' degrowth"

TO VIMA: "Blood drowns the neo-nazis"

TO PARON TIS KYRIAKIS: "Polarization for elections"

TYPOS TIS KYRIAKIS: "Golden Down's guilty secrets"

FREE SUNDAY: "Economy-Politics: Everything and everyone to the extremes"

REAL NEWS: "Here is the evidence Mrs. Merkel"

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