Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English, 13-11-06

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

CONTENTS

[01] Commissioner Rehn optimistic over an agreement on Greek fiscal gap

[02] Greek economy to return to growth rates in 2014, Commission says

[03] Improved tax revenue a strong card in Greek government's hands

[04] Meeting between labour ministry leadership and troika concluded in 'good climate'

[05] Government insists draft budget realistic

[06] Prime Minister Samaras to attend "Suddeutsche Zeitung" leadership meetings

[07] Greek, Latvian FMs meet ahead of Greece's EU presidency

[08] President Papoulias concludes visit to Tirana

[09] President Papoulias wraps up visit to Albania

[10] Government spokesman Kedikoglou on comments made by SYRIZA spokesman

[11] SYRIZA criticises premier's TV interview; gov't spokesman responds

[12] SYRIZA spokesman Panos Skourletis' on PM's interview on ANA-MPA, web TV

[13] Independent Greeks party leader criticises PM's press conference

[14] Tsipras presents SYRIZA's national plan on Greece's reconstruction at Texas conference

[15] Any member's exit from the eurozone 'a catastrophe for Europe,' SYRIZA leader tells UTexas audience

[16] DIMAR says the country cannot tolerate any new measures

[17] New austerity measures are coming, KKE comments after PM's interview

[18] Court of Audit president delivers 2012 report on state finances to Parliament

[19] Greek UN representative calls for an end to Turkish occupation on Cyprus

[20] Merkel meets UN envoy for Macedonia name dispute

[21] Gov't spokesman meets with St. Petersburg University head of Greek programme

[22] 24-hour strike Wednesday to affect public sector, banks, hospitals

[23] ANA-MPA work stoppage on Wednesday

[24] SYRIZA deputy Manolis Glezos taken to hospital after fainting in Parliament

[25] FM Venizelos to receive Cyprus, Egypt envoys on Wednesday

[26] MEP Marilena Koppa participated in European Parliament meeting on November 4

[27] Parliament ratifies article on broadcasting media

[28] Golden Dawn leader tables question to premier on phone tapping

[29] Culture Minister Panagiotopoulos introduces improvements to copyright and related rights legislation

[30] Ministry blames mayor for delay in Thessaloniki metro archaeological digs.

[31] Wellbeing of Greeks declined considerably because of the crisis, OECD report says

[32] Tourism minister sees 10 pct increase in tourism in 2014

[33] New page in energy relations between Greece and Albania

[34] Albanian, Greek Energy ministers meet in Tirana over TAP pipeline

[35] Regions must focus on 'smart specialization', EU Commissioner Hahn says at Ioannina

[36] Five ruling party MPs write to Finmin, opposing new tax on farm land

[37] Nothern Greece businessmen more optimistic in October

[38] Greece raises 1.3 bln euros from T-bill auction

[39] Greek state overdue debt to private sector down to 5.989 bln euros in Sept.

[40] Eurobank announces voluntary exit program for at least 700 workers

[41] Greek livestock breeders to decide future movements at Tempi meeting

[42] Sea cruise passenger traffic up 20.2 pct in October

[43] Aegean Airline announces flight changes due to strike action on Wed.

[44] New flights by Turkish aircraft over Greek islands

[45] Budget revenues surpass targets by 24 pct in October

[46] Greek stocks end significantly lower

[47] Greek bond market closing report

[48] ADEX closing report

[49] Foreign Exchange rates - Wednesday

[50] To ANA-MPA's Subscribers - New Services

[51] Security camera footage from Neo Iraklio fatal shooting released

[52] Greece among countries with little protection for whistleblowers, TI report says

[53] Nafplio police announce arrest of gang helping migrants illegally exit Greece

[54] Tripoli-Kalamata national highway section temporarily shut down Wedn.-Thurs.

[55] Kalamata vying for 'Cultural Capital of Europe 2021' vote

[56] 'Life in Indonesia' photo exhibit opens in Nafplio on Nov. 10

[57] Two workers die in accident on Hydra island

[58] Minor quake jolts Evia

[59] Rainy on Wednesday

[60] The Tuesday edition of Athens' dailies at a glance Politics

[01] Commissioner Rehn optimistic over an agreement on Greek fiscal gap

Economic and Monetary Affairs Commissioner Olli Rehn sounded reassuring and optimistic on Tuesday that Greek authorities and the troika will reach an agreement on a fiscal gap for 2014 and that Greece will meet its fiscal targets.

During a news conference to present the European Commission's autumn economic forecasts, Rehn, who is also Commission vice president, said: "The troika's assessment began only today. Let's let them work. We know from the past that negotiations with Greece are never easy when they cover fiscal issues or structural reforms, but I think that this time they (the negotiations) are not more difficult than usual. I am certain we can reach a satisfactory solution both on the fiscal gap and on fiscal targets".

Rehn added that both the spring and autumn assessments of the Commission forecast that Greece will achieve a primary surplus this year and noted that fiscal gaps in 2014 and 2015 will be covered by combined measures to be merged in an ongoing assessment.

[02] Greek economy to return to growth rates in 2014, Commission says

The Greek economy is expected to shrink by 4.0 pct this year, from 6.4 pct in 2012 and to return to positive growth rate in 2014 (0.6 pct) rising to 2.9 pct in 2015, the European Commission said in its autumn forecasts report released here on Tuesday.

The EU's executive arm, in its spring forecasts had predicted a 4.2 pct economic recession in Greece and a 0.6 pct recovery next year.

The Commission said Greek unemployment was expected to rise to 27 pct this year (unchanged from May's forecasts) from 17.7 pct in 2011 and 24.3 pct in 2012, falling to 26 pct in 2014 and to 24 pct in 2015.

The country's fiscal deficit is projected to rise to 13.5 pct in 2013 (reflecting a bank recapitalization cost) falling to 2.0 pct in 2014 and 1.1 pct in 2015, while the Greek public debt is expected to rise to 176.2 pct of GDP this year, from 156.9 pct in 2012, falling to 175.9 pct in 2014 and 170.9 pct in 2015. Greece is expected to remain in a deflation trend this year (-0.3 pct) and 2014 (-0.4 pct) and to return to positive inflation rates in 2015 (0.3 pct).

[03] Improved tax revenue a strong card in Greek government's hands

"The numbers are satisfactory to base our case, given the commitments made by the Greek government," a top Finance ministry official told ANA-MPA on Tuesday, at the end of a meeting between Finance Minister Yannis Stournaras and the troika of Greece's lenders at the Finance ministry.

The official declined to comment, however, whether this rising trend of state revenues will continue until the end of the year and whether the primary surplus could be higher than the 344 million euros envisaged in the 2014 draft budget.

The official said that a first meeting with the troika -Paul Thomsen and Matthias Morse- was a "good, classic, satisfactory cooperation," which focused on the chapters to be reviewed in the coming days.

The negotiations focused on the 2014 budget -due to be tabled to Parliament by November 21-, actions needed for 2014 such as interventions by the Labour ministry, tax revenue, tax administration and finally structural reforms, privatizations and the course of the banking system.

The first day of talks did not focused on the prior actions needed to approve the loan of 1.0 billion euros, a funding gap and a unified property tax.

[04] Meeting between labour ministry leadership and troika concluded in 'good climate'

"A substantive discussion was held on the labour ministry's previously known and innovative proposals and the mechanisms being introduced by a draft bill now in consultation, as well as other initiatives that have already been announced, such as yesterday's [initiative] with the governor of IKA, through which the collection of contributions is increased while considerable amounts are saved for social insurance funds," they said.

According to ministry officials, the discussion will continue on Wednesday with the troika's technical delegations.

[05] Government insists draft budget realistic

After his meeting with Prime Minister Antonis Samaras at the Maximos Mansion on Tuesday evening, Stournaras said that the new data on revenues and the social insurance contributions for October were given to the troika earlier in the day, stressing that Tuesday's discussion was an overall one.

As regards the discussion on the Greek Defence Systems, the Finance minister reiterated the government's position that they must also have an export character.

[06] Prime Minister Samaras to attend "Suddeutsche Zeitung" leadership meetings

Prime Minister Antonis Samaras will attend the annual "Suddeutsche Zeitung" leadership meetings on November 23.

The meetings on November 21-23 will be attended by German Chancellor Angela Merkel, Italian Prime Minister Enrico Letta, European Central Bank President Mario Draghi, European Parliament President Martin Schulz, German Finance Minister Wolfgang Schaeuble, Deutsche Bundesbank President Jens Weidmann, analysts and entrepreneurs.

Referring to Prime Minister Samaras, the conference website points out that he "has undertaken the toughest reform job in the Eurozone," noting that all of Europe is watching his reform efforts, while underlining that "recently he had amazing successes" in this sector "with positive news for the state budget and economic growth".

[07] Greek, Latvian FMs meet ahead of Greece's EU presidency

Referring to the Greek presidency, he said Greece would support the eastern and southern partnership and thanked Latvia for its significant contribution to the EU's border agency Frontex's effort to combat illegal immigration.

Rinkevics thanked Greece for the support it offered Latvia when it joined the eurozone as well as for the support it is offering ahead of its accession to the OECD.

At the same time that Greece will hold the EU presidency, Latvia will become the 18th member of the eurozone, and this time next year the EU presidency will pass to Latvia.

[08] President Papoulias concludes visit to Tirana

President of Republic Karolos Papoulias on Tuesday concluded his two-day visit to Tirana with a meeting with Tirana mayor and leader of the main opposition Democratic Party Lulzim Basha.

Basha thanked Papoulias for his contribution in the strengthening of Greek-Albanian relations and the friendship between the two countries' people.

The two officials underlined the importance of the further development of the bilateral economic cooperation under a new prospect and the new opportunities offered by the development in the energy sector, particularly with the implementation of the Trans-Adriatic Pipeline(TAP) for natural gas.

On his part, Papoulias expressed his happiness to be again in Tirana and reiterated Greece's will to play an active role and to support Albania's accession efforts to the EU, particularly ahead of Greece's assumption of EU presidency in the first six months of 2014.

Earlier, Papoulias visited the monument of Mother Albania at the cemetery of the Nation's Martyrs' Cemetery where he laid a wreath.

[09] President Papoulias wraps up visit to Albania

President of Republic President Karolos Papoulias wrapped up his two-day visit to Tirana and Gjirokaster on Tuesday evening.

President Papoulias was declared honorary citizen of Gjirokaster and, addressing the city mayor, he referred to the European course of Albania, the role of the Greek minority in the country and the Greek soldiers killed in Albania during WWII.

President Papoulias also met with Greek minority representatives in the village of Dervician (Dervitsani).

Earlier, he laid a wreath in the cemetery of Kelcyre (Klisoura), where Greek soldiers are buried.

[10] Government spokesman Kedikoglou on comments made by SYRIZA spokesman

"(SYRIZA leader) Mr. Tsipras' loquacious spokesman forgot to comment on the revelations made by the prime minister as regards the fringe political parties, and their positions, who back his leader's candidacy for the European Commission presidency," the government spokesman noted.

[11] SYRIZA criticises premier's TV interview; gov't spokesman responds

"SYRIZA cannot tolerate the slighest criticism. But, as we are informed from the US, this does not prevent its leader from frequently changing his position on the euro," Kedikoglou said following SYRIZA's comments on Prime Minister Antonis Samaras' interview at Mega, which the party called "a monumental example of bigoted and divisory speech."

"The prime minister failed to rise to the occasion even after the recent murders," SYRIZA said in an announcement, referring to the shooting of three Golden Dawn (Chryssi Avghi) member. "On the contrary, he adopted a dangerous way of thinking - based on false and unfounded allegations - that undermines the democratic debate and takes one back to other times," it added.

Regarding the government's financial policy, the main opposition party criticised the prime minister for choosing to speak of his financial policy's success from the safety of a TV interview instead of addressing parliament. "It's rare to see someone so distanced from economic and social reality," the party concluded.

[12] SYRIZA spokesman Panos Skourletis' on PM's interview on ANA-MPA, web TV

Speaking in ANA-MPA, Skourletis commented on Prime Minister Antonis Samaras' interview with Mega private television station, aired on Monday night, describing it as a "monument of divisive speech that sends the wrong messages to society".

"One would have expected from the prime minister to rise to the occasion and not adopt and present once again the unfounded theory of the two extremes, which does nothing less than undermine the democratic debate, which is imperative in a modern democracy," he noted.

Referring to the resumption of negotiations with the troika representing the country's creditors, Skourletis said that "there has been no negotiation in the past or now" and wondered "what kind of negotiation are we talking about when it does not question the rationale of the memorandum, when it does not draw a line and say enough is enough".

Commenting on the position expressed by SYRIZA leader Alexis Tsipras during his visit to Texas, USA that "leaving the eurozone would be disastrous," as opposed to SYRIZA's earlier position that "the euro is not a fetish," Skourletis said that "our political analyses on the nature of the crisis do not look at the situation from a nationalist-centered perspective," adding that they "incorporate the view that the field of contest is united Europe".

Referring to what the prime minister said about Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Evangelos Venizelos, Skourletis said that "the solidarity and coverage offered to Venizelos is unprecedented. Obviously it is solidarity among villains. They know something and they are covering for each other."

[13] Independent Greeks party leader criticises PM's press conference

Kammenos said "it is pitiful for the prime minister of a country with 2,100,000 unemployed and 6,000 suicides, who is supported by and supports with immunity the most corrupt party in Europe, to be promising in his proclamation free access to the Internet to the people, whose homes he is seizing."

[14] Tsipras presents SYRIZA's national plan on Greece's reconstruction at Texas conference

Main opposition Radical Left Coalition (SYRIZA) leader Alexis Tsipras told a conference on Tuesday that his party had "a comprehensive national plan on the country's economic, social and ecological reconstruction." He added it was a plan providing for "an immediate response to the humanitarian crisis facing the country."

Tsipras participated in a panel discussion on "Advice to Governments to Come", as part of a two-day conference organized by the LBJ School of Public Affairs at the University of Texas at Austin, titled "Can the eurozone survive?"

Greece's main opposition leader referred again to some points of his speech on Monday at the first day of the conference, stressing that SYRIZA will put forward its own programme for the reconstruction of the country.

He expounded on what he called "three pillars" that would form the basis of his party's programme, stressing at the same time that just a few days ago, Greek Finance minister Yannis Stournaras had defended the bailout memorandum as "the only credible political plan," which was "a political apology, rather than a reflection of political reality."

The three pillars that will govern the national plan, according to Tsipras are:

- Stabilizing the economy. This will be achieved by increasing public revenue through the reorganization of the tax system aiming at taxing high incomes and wealth and tackling tax evasion, tax avoidance and tax havens. "We will put an end to public spending cuts and reorganize spending in such a way as to address the humanitarian crisis."

- Addressing the humanitarian crisis, through a public fund to finance this emergency.

- Restructuring the productive base of the economy. The goal will be to formulate a growth model that will create decently paid and stable jobs, very different from past practices that plunged Greece in its crisis.

Tsipras specifically emphasised the problem of unemployment among the young, layoffs and reducing pensions. "The country is plagued by unemployment of up to 30 percent, a figure which rises to 60 percent among young people. Nevertheless, the government and the (EC/ECB/IMF) troika (of lenders) have focused on redundancies in the public sector and the removal of barriers to layoffs in the private sector," he added.

[15] Any member's exit from the eurozone 'a catastrophe for Europe,' SYRIZA leader tells UTexas audience

A country's exit from the euro will not benefit anyone, and will create new problems, Radical Left Coalition (SYRIZA) leader Alexis Tsipras said at a two-day conference organized by the LBJ School of Public Affairs at the University of Texas at Austin, titled "Can the eurozone survive?".

The main opposition leader delivered the conference's keynote address on Monday and responded to questions during a discussion following later in the day (local time).

Regarding the eurozone, he said that the founding agreements of the European Union were wrong and have to change, but the question of whether some countries should have been allowed to become members "is best left to historians."

"Today, the eurozone exists," Tsipras said. "We have an economic union and a common currency. The immediate alternatives are worse, and an exit will not benefit anyone. On the contrary, it will create serious new problems - management of an unstable, new currency; inflation; and flight of capital and people. For this reason alone, Greece should not and will not do it, will not leave the eurozone voluntarily."

Besides jeopardising its own economy, a possible exit by Greece or any other country in crisis "would be a catastrophe for Europe. Deep down, everyone knows this," the SYRIZA leader said. "At this time, if one country leaves, markets and speculators will start asking who the next one in line is...It doesn't matter how small the departing country is. It doesn't matter if it leaves voluntarily or not."

Referring to the European Parliament's questioning of fiscal policies followed by the troika of lenders in countries of crisis, like Greece, Tsipras said, "European Parliament president (Martin Schulz) mentioned that someone should assume responsibility for what has happened in countries that followed the policies of the troika. We agree with this stance and will contribute towards this. But he must also respond to the question of why the fiscal adjustment programme must continue."

Monday's panel discussion was moderated by Monica Frasoni, European Green Party co-president at the Europarliament. Panelists included Harvard lecturer and economist Richard Parker, New York Times journalist Landon Thomas, Jr., and Georgetown University emeritus professor of law Norman Birnbaum. SYRIZA deputy Giorgos Stathakis and economics professor Yannis Varoufakis also participated in Monday's proceedings.

[16] DIMAR says the country cannot tolerate any new measures

"The government must make absolutely clear during the negotiations with the troika that the country cannot tolerate any new measures, under whatever name," DIMAR said in an announcement.

[17] New austerity measures are coming, KKE comments after PM's interview

"The prime minister's promises for an exit from the memorandum and better days for the people cannot conceal the fact that, at the same time, new anti-popular measures are being prepared, with a tax-annihilation of working-class households, new cuts to social insurance rights, worker lay offs and blows to small business owners," the announcement said.

It also pointed to the premier's references to permanent European Union supervision mechanisms, saying this confirmed that there was no 'expiry date' to the EU measures "since this serves the profits of capital" and repeated its call that people "turn their back to the EU".

The announcement was issued in response to an interview given by Prime Minister Antonis Samaras to the private television channel Mega, broadcast on Monday night.

[18] Court of Audit president delivers 2012 report on state finances to Parliament

"This year we are in the pleasant position of saying that the efforts and deprivation of the Greek people has not been for nothing because some points have started to improve," he said.

Karavokyris said that shortfalls remained in terms of revenues and collecting debts from fines, taxes and other reasons.

Accepting the report on the final accounts for 2012, Meimarakis expressed his conviction that the Court of Audit had done good work and stressed that cooperation with the Parliament was fully harmonious, though there were margins for closer relations.

[19] Greek UN representative calls for an end to Turkish occupation on Cyprus

Ambassador Michael Spinellis, Greece's permanent representative of Greece to the United Nations (UN), said on Tuedsay that if Turks want to prove their dedication in finding a solution to the Cyprus's problem, they should end Turkish occupation on the island and respect human rights.

Spinellis was speaking at the Social, Humanitarian and Cultural Affairs Committee (Third Committee) on the "promotion and protection of human rights, with main reference to the violation of human rights in Cyprus."

Spinellis referred to the problems of missing persons, refugees, and the illegal passage of Turkish settlers in the occupied areas, as well as the destruction of cultural and religious heritage in the occupied area of Cyprus.

He also stressed that Greece supports the ongoing efforts of the UN to resume negotiations.

[20] Merkel meets UN envoy for Macedonia name dispute

German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Tuesday had a brief meeting here with United Nations special envoy Matthew Nimetz, the UN mediator in negotiations between Greece and the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM) over the ongoing name dispute.

An announcement issued by the Chancellor's office said that Merkel thanked Nimetz for his efforts to mediate the dispute over the years and discussed the present stage of the negotiations. It said the two officials "agreed that the obstacles can be overcome given the necessary political will from the capitals Athens and Skopje," while Merkel assured Nimetz of the German government's support for his efforts.

In an explanatory note attached to the announcement, the Chancellor's office clarified that Germany observes the wording that arose from the 1995 Interim Agreement between the two countries concerning the name issue. It also notes that both the European Union and NATO have repeatedly reached unanimous decisions that a mutually agreed solution to the name issue is a condition for the start of accession talks with FYROM.

[21] Gov't spokesman meets with St. Petersburg University head of Greek programme

During the meeting, they discussed the remarkable and longtime contribution of the department to the maintenance and spread of the Greek language and the history of Greek civilization, and they agreed on the need to strengthen the programme in every way possible.

[22] 24-hour strike Wednesday to affect public sector, banks, hospitals

According to GSEE, the unions want the reinstitution of labor law and collective labor agreements, the end to the property taxes and home foreclosures, a reduction of taxation, measures to relieve unemployment, and an end to privatisations of public agencies and businesses.

Unions will rally at 11:00 at Pedion tou Areos, where Alexandras Avenue and Patission Street meet, except for PAME, the labor union affiliated with the Communist Party of Greece, which is meeting at 10:30 at Omonia Square.

[23] ANA-MPA work stoppage on Wednesday

During the stoppage, the only coverage exempted will be news from the field related to the mobilisations, the Panhellenic Federation of Journalists' Unions (POESY) said.

The union also issued a call to all journalists to participate in a rally on 11:00 at the Pedion tou Areos park, on the corner of Patission Street and Alexandras Avenue.

[24] SYRIZA deputy Manolis Glezos taken to hospital after fainting in Parliament

He was escorted to the ambulance by the Parliament doctor, Parliament President Evangelos Meimarakis and former Parliament president Apostolos Kaklamanis.

"Manolis, we are expecting you at the session tomorrow," Kaklamanis told him before the ambulance drove off.

Glezos was taken to the 251 General Air Force Hospital, and was diagnosed with a gallstone, according to reports.

He will remain in hospital for conservative treatment.

[25] FM Venizelos to receive Cyprus, Egypt envoys on Wednesday

[26] MEP Marilena Koppa participated in European Parliament meeting on November 4

The meeting was held to discuss the negotiations for the EU-US Free Trade Agreement, focusing on the progress of talks, the European Parliament's priorities and the risks and dangers.

According to a press release, the Free Trade Agreement with the USA is an ambitious commercial and investment agreement that could have important financial benefits for the EU.

The negotiations concern copyright, protected geographical indications, the agricultural sector, genetically modified organisms, cloning and consumers' health, where the US and EU rules diverge.

[27] Parliament ratifies article on broadcasting media

The article was passed through a roll call vote that had been requested by main opposition Radical Left Coalition (SYRIZA).

Former premier George Papandreou caused a sensation as he voted against the article, while former premier Costas Karamanlis did not attend the parliament's session.

Earlier, government spokesman Simos Kedikoglou tabled an amendment to the provision which brings forward by six months, i.e. until Dec. 31, 2014, the deadline given to television stations to settle their pending legal cases and thus be allowed to get digital licenses.

[28] Golden Dawn leader tables question to premier on phone tapping

Calling on "media reports and police and judicial leaks," Michaloliakos said the evidence shows "that Greek security and secret services have been involved in surveillance of parliamentary representatives."

Michaloliakos also said that when he and his lawyers were called by prosecutor Kalliopi Dagianta to be read their charges, she mentioned to him that courts "have in their hands the content of phone-tapped conversations of Golden Dawn deputies which she considered lawful and which she said were carried out before September 17, 2013."

However, he said, there were no transcriptions of any such tappings in the copies of the case files he got. Therefore, he asks the premier to disclose who gave the order for the phone tapping and whether an urgent investigation will be conducted into identifying who is responsible for the illegal surveillance, he said.

Michaloliakos along with other deputies were arrested on October 3 on charges of running a criminal organisation. Their detention followed an investigation by prosecutors into the party's activities, set off by the murder on September 17 of Pavlos Fyssas, a leftist rapper. The detained deputies have been stripped of their immunity by parliament vote in order to stand trial on criminal charges.

[29] Culture Minister Panagiotopoulos introduces improvements to copyright and related rights legislation

The new law constitutes an attempt to ensure that those eligible for related rights will, up to a point, be equally protected as the artists themselves. At the same time, it facilitates digitization and public access to library collections, archives, museums, educational institutions, film or audio heritage institutes and public radio & television stations.

The draft law incorporates two recent European Union directives into national legislation.

[30] Ministry blames mayor for delay in Thessaloniki metro archaeological digs.

"If the Municipality of Thessaloniki hadn't blocked the works at Venizelos station through the Council of State, the continuation of archaeological excavations would occupy 220 persons today," said Simopoulos, commenting on a protest by workers in the digs.

Financial News

[31] Wellbeing of Greeks declined considerably because of the crisis, OECD report says

Compared with other OECD countries, Greece performed well in only three of the 11 criteria that the OECD considers essential to a good life (income and wealth; jobs and earnings; housing conditions; health status; work-life balance; education and skills; social connections; civic engagement and governance; environmental quality; personal security and subjective well-being).

Greece ranked above the OECD average in the dimensions of health status, work-life balance and personal security, but below average in education and skills, income and wealth, civic engagement, jobs and earnings, social connections, housing, subjective well-being and environmental quality.

From 2007 to 2011, Greece recorded a cumulative decline in real household disposable income of around 23 pct, the largest decline among the OECD countries. Between 2007 and 2010, market income inequality (before taxes and transfers) increased by 2 pct, well above the OECD average of 1.2 pct.

The largest impact of the crisis on people's well-being has come through lower employment and deteriorating labour market conditions. Between 2007 and 2012, the employment rate decreased by almost 10 percentage points in Greece, while the long-term unemployment rate increased by 10 percentage points.

The poor employment situation had a major impact on life satisfaction. From 2007 to 2011, the percentage of Greek people declaring themselves very satisfied with their lives fell from 59 pct to 34 pct, the lowest share in the OECD area.

People's trust in institutions and in the way democracy works has also declined during the crisis. The percentage of Greek people reporting that they trust the government fell from 38 pct to 13 pct between 2007 and 2012.

Also, 31 pct of Greek workers reported being in a poor working environment, a share significantly above the average in European countries.

Gender gaps in well-being, typically in favour of men, have declined in most OECD countries over the past few decades, including Greece. Despite these gains, Greek women are still less likely than men to have a paid job or be elected to parliament.

According to the Wall Street Journal, the OECD report concluded that despite the decline in well-being in Euro-zone, a number of European countries remain among the best places to live, with Switzerland, the Nordic countries and the U.K. in the top 20 pct of countries, alongside Australia, Canada and New Zealand. Most other European countries still fall into a group that includes the 60 pct of countries that have average levels of well-being, alongside the United States and Japan. Among Eurozone members, only Greece and Estonia are part of a group that represents the 20 pct of countries that display relatively low levels of well-being, alongside Turkey, Brazil and Mexico.

[32] Tourism minister sees 10 pct increase in tourism in 2014

Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni predicted that Greece's tourism sector will grow by 10 percent in 2014, building on its rapid growth during the current year.

In an interview with the U.S. television network CNBC, Kefalogianni was optimistic about the country's tourism prospects in the following year, seeing significant growth that would boost the country's economy.

The tourism minister emphasised the help tourism provides in the country's fiscal adjustment effort, stressing that last summer's reduction in VAT for restaurant and catering services had bolstered demand and benefited the economy.

"Overall, I would say that not only has it been proved that tourism is a very durable sector of the economy, but it is also one of the sectors that has contributed to the efforts of the Greek government for fiscal restructuring," Kefalogianni said.

Greek tourist officials also said that 2013 was an "excellent year", stressing that the tourism sector could constitute "Greece's vehicle to recovery".

[33] New page in energy relations between Greece and Albania

The ministry highlighted the importance of the TAP pipeline for economic growth in the two countries and Greece's support for Albania's efforts to align its legislation and its energy market with the European Union's acquis communautaire, saying these would be the main axes of bilateral cooperation and strengthening relations between the two countries.

Maniatis met in Tirana with Albanian government vice president Niko Peleshi, discussing energy policy issues relating to joint initiatives launched in the Ionian Sea, the Adriatic and the southeastern Mediterranean.

The minister also met with Energy and Industry Minister Damian Gjiknuri, with whom he discussed the next steps in the implementation of the project for construction of the TAP pipeline, with emphasis on the transfer of know-how from Greece to the Albanian side. They also agreed on the need for coordination at political leadership level for the plan's smooth and unimpeded execution.

Lastly, he met Environment Minister Lefter Koka and Deputy Minister Olijana Ifti, reaching agreement on the need for closer bilateral cooperation in the protection of the environment, forests, water resources and waste management and on drawing up a cooperation document between the two countries in the above sectors to be signed in the coming period.

[34] Albanian, Greek Energy ministers meet in Tirana over TAP pipeline

Albanian Energy and Industry Minister Damian Gjiknuri received on Monday evening Greek Environment, Energy and Climate Change Minister Yiannis Maniatis within the framework of the official visit to Albania by Greek President of the Republic Karolos Papoulias.

According to Gjiknuri's press office, the two ministers noted the importance of the Trans-Adriatic (TAP) natural gas pipeline project for both countries.

Gjiknuri said that TAP is a project that will offer new opportunities for economic cooperation between Albania and Greece.

Both ministers pointed out the need for coordination between the two countries government in order to facilitate the project's implementation.

Maniatis and Gjiknuri expressed their will to create mechanisms necessary to promote TAP and also expressed the wish to extend their cooperation to other energy sectors.

Deputy Minister Christofilopoulou calls for accelerated procedures to reduce administrative burdens for enterprises

Deputy Administrative Reform Minister Evi Christofilopoulou on Tuesday called for accelerated procedures in the selection and announcement of "direct and selective interventions before the end of November to ensure that the ministerial decisions for their implementation will be issued by the end of the year to reduce administrative burdens for enterprises".

Christofilopoulou attended a working meeting on the course of the assessment of administrative burdens in laws and regulations in selected sectors of the Greek economy held in the presence of an OECD work group, Hellenic Statistical Authority (ELSTAT) and officials from the ministries of administrative reform, tourism, rural development, competitiveness, health, infrastructure, finance and environment.

The specific project assesses the administrative burdens for 13 sectors of the economy while also including suggestions for their reduction in an effort to raise funds for the public administration sector while, at the same time, boosting entrepreneurship.

Christofilopoulou expressed appreciation to OECD project representative David Bates stating that cooperation between the Greek government ministries and the OECD is imperative to ensure that the effort will bring specific policy results that will be implemented to assist in an structural manner in boosting entrepreneurship.

[35] Regions must focus on 'smart specialization', EU Commissioner Hahn says at Ioannina

Hahn, who is paying a two-day visit to the northwestern Greek city of Ioannina, met with manufacturing organizations and the prefect of Epirus Alexandros Kachrimanis. The visit is part of a tour of several Greek cities to promote information on better absorption of the new EU structural funds for 2014-2020.

"Our goal is to promote the economy, and the investment plans of the prefectures should reflect that goal", Hahn said. "What we ask from the prefectures is to follow a strategy for 'smart specialization', which can lead to programmes for tourism, agricultural food sector, even health," he added.

The EU Commissioner also stressed the need for infrastructural works and proper use of funds for better results.

According to the Commissioner, EU is planning to double the funds, from 70 billion to at least 140 billion, for the period 2014-2020, in order to boost the economy in the prefectures.

At a seperate event in Corfu late on Monday, the Commissioner stressed the need for "developing an entrepreneurial spirit, proposing solutions to ensure the creditworthiness of businesses, and finding alternative ways of management, aimed at economic recovery and fighting unemployment."

[36] Five ruling party MPs write to Finmin, opposing new tax on farm land

The MPs Giorgos Karasmanis, Giorgos Konstantopoulos, Konstantinos Tsiaras, Theophilos Leontaridis and Alexandros Kontos emphasised that the possession and use of agricultural land was not taxed in any other country in the world, only the income that such land generated.

In addition, they said that 'easy' revenue-raising measures imposed simply to levy taxes will result in strong reactions from farmers and multiple problems in agricultural production.

[37] Nothern Greece businessmen more optimistic in October

The survey said that the Northern Greece Business Index 500 (NGBI 500) rose to -20 in October from -23 in September, -32 in August, -49 in December 2012 and -35 in October last year. The survey showed that a 19 pct of businessmen said their condition was good, up from 15 pct in September, another 45 pct said it was satisfactory and a 35 pct said it was bad.

A 14 pct of Northern Greece businessmen said they expected their condition to be better in the next six months, down from 17 pct in September, while a 37 pct expected a deterioration (up from 35 pct in September).

Dismissals intention rose to 21 pct in October from 20 pct in September, while hiring intentions rose to 11 pct from 9.0 pct over the same period respectively and the majority of enterprises (68 pct) said they planned to maintain their workforces. A 44 pct said their turnover fell in October (down from 56 pct in September), while a 17 pct said their sales grew in the month.

[38] Greece raises 1.3 bln euros from T-bill auction

The organization said that the interest rate of the issue was set at 4.15 pct, unchanged from the previous auction of same T-bills in October. Bids submitted totaled 1.860 billion euros, 1.86 times more than the asked sum.

[39] Greek state overdue debt to private sector down to 5.989 bln euros in Sept.

A report by the Finance ministry said that pending tax returns by the state totaled 643.2 million euros in September from 409.4 million euros the previous month.

Overdue debt by government ministries totalled 370 million euros in September, up from 362 million in August, local authorities' overdue debt was 712 million euros (down from 760 million euros), state hospitals' debt fell to 1.095 billion euros from 1.150 billion euros, pension funds' debt eased to 3.547 billion euros from 3.609 billion euros and other legal entities' debt fell to 265 million euros from 286 million euros.

[40] Eurobank announces voluntary exit program for at least 700 workers

The programme will cover all workers in Eurobank and its Greek subsidiaries including New Proton Bank, while workers in Hellenic Postbank and its subsidiaries will be excluded. The program will not cover workers in Eurolife, Eurobank Properties, Eurobank Equities and contract workers.

[41] Greek livestock breeders to decide future movements at Tempi meeting

"We do not rule out closing the road in this specific spot, cutting the country in two", said Kambouris. The breeders have asked that Rural Development and Food Minister Athanasios Tsaftaris be present at the meeting and talk to them, with Kambouris adding that "It's time for Tsaftaris to face us."

Kambouris commented on the problematic payment of farmer subsidies, rebates and other assistance, stating that "We denounce and condemn the new blow against the industry," and called for the immediate intervention of the prime minister, leaders of the political parties and a discussion in Parliament.

[42] Sea cruise passenger traffic up 20.2 pct in October

The report said that sea cruise passenger traffic grew 13.71 pct in the January-October period (transit up 17.07 pct, homeporting -3.62 pct).

"Our forecasts are confirmed," George Anomeritis, chairman and chief executive of the Organization said commenting on the figures, adding that "the most important thing is that the sea cruise port has made a significant upgrade in the quality of its services and safety, a quality expected to be further enhanced next year with the introduction of two new docking stations and the operation of the third international passenger terminal".

Meanwhile, Miltiadis Varvitsiotis, Maritime and Aegean Minister, announced a decision to begin works of building a new sea cruise pier in the south part of the port.

[43] Aegean Airline announces flight changes due to strike action on Wed.

According to the airline, the work stoppage from 12:00 noon to 15:00 will result in the cancellation of six domestic flights - affecting Iraklio and Thessaloniki schedules - and a change in time for another 31 flights - 12 domestic and 19 flights abroad.

Aegean said information is available on its site, www.aegeanair.com or 801 11 20000 (from a landline) or 210 6261000 (from a cell phone).

[44] New flights by Turkish aircraft over Greek islands

According to an announcement by the National Defence General Staff, the 4 Phantoms flew over Makronissi at an altitude of 500 to 2,500 feet at 15:48 p.m. while the s F-16s flew over Strongyli isle of the same complex at 4,000 to 5,000 at 15:52.

All the Turkish aircraft were intercepted and identified, according to international rules and according to standard practice.

On September 5 and August 20, Turkish formations also comprised of 4 Phantoms and 2 F-16s had flown over Agathonissi and Anthropofaghi of the Fourni island complex.

[45] Budget revenues surpass targets by 24 pct in October

A ministry statement said that "the general government budget's data for the first nine months of the year supported the estimate that 2013 will end with a primary budget surplus. Additionally, the October figures surpassed targets." The statement noted that pre-tax return revenue totaled 4.8 billion euros in October, up by 750 million euros, or 24 pct compared with the budget target for the month. Budget revenues continued to surpass targets for the fourth consecutive month, helping the 10-month figure to surpass budget targets. "With the painful contribution of households and enterprises the country is approaching its fiscal targets," the statement noted.

[46] Greek stocks end significantly lower

The Large Cap index fell 2.17 pct and the Mid Cap index ended 1.83 pct lower. Eurobank Properties (0.22 pct) and Folli Follie (0.18 pct) were the only blue chip stocks to end higher, while Intralot (5.0 pct0, OTE (4.05 pct), Piraeus Bank (4.0 pct), Motor Oil (3.76 pct) and PPC (3.50 pct) were top losers. The Commerce sector (0.16 pct) was the only one to move higher, while Telecoms (4.05 pct), Health (3.68 pct) and Food (3.03 pct) suffered the heaviest percentage losses of the day.

Broadly, decliners led advancers by 96 to 40 with another 17 issues unchanged. Logismos (29.85 pct), Varvaresos (20 pct) and Spider (20 pct) were top gainers, while Dias Aquaculture (19.74 pct), Pasal (19.38 pct) and G.E. Demetriou (18.37 pct) were top losers.

Sector indices ended as follows:

Industrials: -1.85%

Commercial: +0.16%

Construction: -2.10%

Oil & Gas: -2.84%

Personal & Household: -1.12%

Raw Materials: -1.79%

Travel & Leisure: -1.19%

Technology: -0.97%

Telecoms: -4.05%

Banks: -1.38%

Food & Beverages: -3.03%

Health: -3.68%

Utilities: -2.91%

Financial Services: -2.11%

The stocks with the highest turnover were OPAP, Piraeus Bank, OTE, PPC and EXAE.

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

Alpha Bank: 0.647

Public Power Corp (PPC): 9.65

Coca Cola HBC: 20.62

Hellenic Petroleum: 9.30

National Bank of Greece: 4.10

Eurobank Properties : 9.10

OPAP: 9.03

OTE: 8.30

Piraeus Bank: 1.44

Titan: 19.24

[47] Greek bond market closing report

In interbank markets, interest rates were largely unchanged. The 12-month rate was 0.53 pct, the nine-month rate was 0.44 pct, the six-month rate was 0.34 pct, the three-month rate was 0.224 pct and the one-month rate was 0.129 pct.

[48] ADEX closing report

Volume in futures contracts on equities totaled 13,015 contracts worth 7.044 million euros, with investment interest focusing on Piraeus Bank's contracts (3,134), followed by National Bank (2,218), Alpha Bank (846), MIG (170), OTE (1,459), PPC (2,540), OPAP (292), Mytilineos (719), Hellenic Petroleum (233), GEK (188), Ellaktor (201), Viohalco (126) and Eurobank (136).

[49] Foreign Exchange rates - Wednesday

U.S. dollar 1.369

Pound sterling 0.852

Danish kroner 7.570

Swedish kroner 8.925

Japanese yen 134.58

Swiss franc 1.248

Norwegian kroner 8.172

Canadian dollar 1.428

Australian dollar 1.436

General News

[50] To ANA-MPA's Subscribers - New Services

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