Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English, 13-12-17

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

CONTENTS

[01] Gov't optimistic on approval of bailout loan tranche in Tuesday's Eurogroup

[02] Development Minister: Gov't will reserve jugdement on troika proposals

[03] Samaras calls Health Ministry and doctors to start a dialogue; reforms in health will continue

[04] PM's trip to Baku cancelled due to aircraft safety issues

[05] President Papoulias hosts lunch for PM Samaras

[06] Defence Minister Avramopoulos visits Israel

[07] Foreign Ministry official to meet with State Dept. officials in US

[08] Greek FM Venizelos telephones Turkish counterpart Ahmet Davutoglu

[09] Turkish FM Davutoglu on visit to Athens

[10] Gov't spokesman Kedikoglou on SYRIZA leader Tsipras' bid for the EC presidency

[11] SYRIZA calls on gov't to brief Parliament on contracts with 'bailout' consultants

[12] Admin. Reform Minister Mitsotakis asks for crosschecks of civil servants qualifications

[13] Interior minister meets Iraqi displacement and migration minister in Athens

[14] Greek politicians' source of wealth statements go online on Monday

[15] Parliament to discuss suspending state funding for Golden Dawn party on Tuesday

[16] Transport minister presents new 'digital' Post Office

[17] Public order minister meets with Iraqi Migration minister

[18] KKE says anti-popular measures will continue

[19] PASOK leader congratulates Kouvelis on reelection as DIM.AR's president

[20] KKE leader and Palestinian Authority envoy discuss Palestinian problem

[21] Left-wing parties say gov't must comply with ECHR ruling on same-sex cohabitation agreements

[22] Former FinMin Papantoniou indicted on tax evasion charges

[23] EU Commissioner Hahn approves Greece's major motorway projects

[24] FinMin to extend statute of limitations in tax audits approaching deadline

[25] Dodecanese Bank to use Alpha Bank's network as of Monday

[26] Attiki Region needs anti-flood investments worth over 2.5 billion euros, regional gov. says

[27] AEGEK signs preliminary agreement for 10 pct stake in Aegean Motorway

[28] State budget cash balance shows net deficit of 4.0 bln euros, central bank announces

[29] Employment seems to stabilise, minister says for Jan.-Nov. period

[30] Employment in retail trade down 1.1 pct in Q3

[31] Union of Greek Shipowners delegation received by U.S. government officials

[32] Greek trade deficit at 14.5 bln euros in Jan-Sep, Eurostat

[33] Greek stocks slide below 1,150-point 'barrier'

[34] Greek bond market closing report

[35] ADEX closing report

[36] Glyptothek of Munich director talks to the ANA-MPA on the role of art in Greek-German relations, the crisis and the Parthenon Marbles

[37] Northern Greek ski resorts open, snow at low levels

[38] Chania: Municipality's care program for stray animals

[39] Panathinaikos FC fans donate two tons of food, staples to City of Athens programme

[40] Patras authorities arrest traffickers and migrants

[41] Court acquits all defendants in stock market bubble case

[42] The Monday edition of Athens' dailies at a glance Politics

[01] Gov't optimistic on approval of bailout loan tranche in Tuesday's Eurogroup

A high-level Finance ministry source said after the end of talks with the troika that "we are certainly optimistic" for Eurogroup's approval, adding that "we hope that there will be no veto by an EU partner."

The optimism expressed by the government's economic staff is further highlighted by a statement made by IMF representative in the troika Poul Thomsen, who, while leaving the Finance ministry after the meeting said "we have made some progress. I will be back in January."

However, the government has left open the possibility to go ahead -by Friday- with passing legislation on the scorching issues relating to foreclosures of first homes and VAT on restaurants and catering, which will be with troika's tolerance, as no agreement was reached on those two matters.

"We will legislate, if not with troika's agreement, with its tolerance," a high-ranking Development ministry official said. On this, the Finance ministry source added that anyway "it will be not in the troika's disagreement. We do not want to go ahead with one-sided action, we would like to have troika's tolerance."

Following marathon negations for several days, the government and the representatives of the country's lenders have reached the following results:

- With regard to the Hellenic Defence Systems, the two sides agreed to a restructuring plan, under which the company the will be split into a civil and a military legs, with the civil one to undertake the illegal state subsidies and eventually to close down. The military leg will continue operating for a transitional period of time but with less staff and with an export orientation.

The agreement for the four prior actions gives the "green light" for the approval by the European Stability Mechanism (ESM), next Thursday, for the disbursement of the bailout loan tranche of 1.0 billion euros, pending since last July.

- On the foreclosures of first residences (on which the protection status expires on 31 December), the Development ministry source said that "there was a further approach, the differences were trimmed down and troika has moved considerably towards our position. Consultations with the troika will continue (through e-mails and telephone) and at government level."

The government intends to extend the existing legislation on foreclosures for one year, by introducing objective criteria, such as income, assets, objective values and amount of part payments. "What is of concern to the troika regarding home foreclosures is the stability of the banking system," Development ministry officials said.

- On the issue regarding the VAT for restaurants and catering, the government wants to extend the reduced rate of 13%, as the measure's pilot effect expires on December 31.

The troika envoys will come back to Athens in mid January for a new round of negotiations on issues including the fiscal gap for 2014, the Medium-Term Programme 2014-2017, waiving taxes for third parties and reducing employers social security contributions.

The Finance ministry source said that during the new round of talks, the government will present to the troika a number of equivalent structural measures to close the fiscal gap. The same source ruled out new austerity measures, such further cuts in wages and pensions and tax hikes.

This round of negotiations should be completed by the Eurogroup meeting of January 27, so that approval may be given for the disbursement of the 4.9-billion-euro tranche to allow the government to pay off some 5.5 billion euros in state bonds maturing in May.

[02] Development Minister: Gov't will reserve jugdement on troika proposals

Speaking to private Skai TV on Monday, Hatzidakis said that "government can't step back and accept whatever is offered", adding that "the troika has a stricter approach than we do regarding first-home protection measures".

"It is easy to agree (with them), but then you will have to cope with the social repercussions," noted Hatzidakis, adding the government aims to protect those in need and not those taking advantage of the laws, pointing out that "with the horizontal protection that is applicable today, those who own a house of 450,000 euros are protected by the law".

[03] Samaras calls Health Ministry and doctors to start a dialogue; reforms in health will continue

On his part, Georgiadis called on once again the doctors in dialogue to make clear how exactly this reform will be carried out how this transition will take place smoothly. He also ask from the doctors to end the strike noting that the reform must continue.

The meeting was held in an effort to resolve problems stemming from an extended strike by doctors affiliated with National Organisation for the Provision of Healthcare Services (EOPYY) who are protesting against the mobility scheme that will reduce staff and consolidate health services. Doctors are on strike until December 19.

According to an announcement by the PIS, doctors "wanted to brief the prime minister on all health and hospitalisation issues of the Greek people, especially the health crisis in Greece, including the weakening of public health structures, the viability problem of small and middle-sized private practices and laboratories, and the aggravation of problems related to public health."

[04] PM's trip to Baku cancelled due to aircraft safety issues

It was not possible to arrange for other means of transport for the Greek mission to Baku, while the premier's trip to the upcoming EU summit in Brussels will be carried out with a commercial airline.

The prime minister's aircraft performed a test flight after an inspection on Monday evening to test whether it was safe to resume the premier's flight to Baku but problems with the aircraft persisted.

The prime minister was to participate in a signing ceremony in Baku for the launch of the Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP) project and the Shah Deniz 2 natural gas field.

During the visit, an agreement was scheduled to be signed for the privatisation of the Hellenic Gas Transmission System Operator (DESFA) between the state privatisations agency Hellenic Republic Asset Development Fund (HRADF) President Konstantinos Maniatopoulos and the CEO of Azerbaijan's state-owned oil company Socar Rovnag Abdullayev, in the presence of Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev and Prime Minister Samaras.

[05] President Papoulias hosts lunch for PM Samaras

[06] Defence Minister Avramopoulos visits Israel

Avramopoulos underlined that "this strategic cooperation does not constitute a threat to anyone," while his Israeli counterpart Moshe Ya'alon noted that "the strategic relationship that has been consolidated between the two countries is not aimed against anyone. It only serves stability in the region of the Middle East and eastern Mediterranean".

The talks focused on sectors of research and technology, the utilization of manpower and training in the context of the armed forces.

Avramopoulos invited his Israeli counterpart to carry out an official visit to Athens.

The defence minister was also received by Israeli President Shimon Peres and Patriarch Theophilos III of Jerusalem.

Avramopoulos' visit completes the Greek-Israeli Interministerial Cooperation Council, which was held on October 8 without the participation of the two defence ministers because the Israeli minister was on a visit abroad.

Avramopoulos was accompanied by Chief of Hellenic National Defence General Staff, General Mikhail Kostarakos.

[07] Foreign Ministry official to meet with State Dept. officials in US

During his visit, a ministry announcement said, Mitsialis will have also a series of meetings with other State Department officials and with representatives of the Senate on issues of bilateral interest and international developments.

Moreover, Mitsialis will hold talks with top-level think-tank staff, whom he will brief on issues regarding Greek foreign policy as well as the priorities of the upcoming Greek presidency of the EU on January 1, 2014.

[08] Greek FM Venizelos telephones Turkish counterpart Ahmet Davutoglu

According to diplomatic sources, Davutoglu thanked Venizelos for the meeting and hospitality told him about his discussion with the leader of the Turkish-Cypriot Community Dervis Eroglu. Venizelos thanked Davutoglu for the update, but stressed that these issues are handled by the President of the Republic of Cyprus Nicos Anastasiades and the Greek-Cypriot side.

After his conversation with Davutoglu, Venizelos informed Cyprus Foreign Minister Ioannis Kasoulides.

[09] Turkish FM Davutoglu on visit to Athens

Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu on Monday expressed cautious optimism about the Cyprus issue and about Greek-Turkish relations, following his talks with the Greek prime minister and the foreign minister in Athens on December 13, in a statement released by the foreign ministry.

"This last week a strengthening dynamic is developing that relates to negotiations on Cyprus," the foreign minister said in a written statement. "Turkey and Greece, as guarantor powers and factors of security for Turkish Cypriots and Greek Cyprios, have the political will to contribute to this process. As long as Turkey and Greece share a common perspective, I am sure this will prepare the way towards peace on the island," he added.

Turkey considers the Greek EU presidency a great opportunity for itself, Davutoglu said, under a "new framework of relations" which will strengthen an existing dynamic with the signing next week in Ankara of an agreement granting Turkish nationals EU entry without a visa, and an agreement on Turkey's reapplication for EU membership. "This will offer the Greek presidency a golden opportunity," Davutoglu noted.

He also said that Turkey appreciates the steps recently taken by Greek PM Antonis Samaras and FM Evangelos Venizelos, and added: "We had a positive reaction to the concerns we expressed for unfavourable measures taken for certain mosques and we took the necessary mutual measures....Governments in Turkey and Greece can talk sincerely about all these issues."

Davutoglu also said that Turkey's prime minister had spoken by phone with Samaras two days ago on the Greece-Turkey Highest Level Council of Strategic Cooperation. "We have proceeded to the initial preparation of the Council's meeting," the foreign minister added, saying, "Thus we place importance on the occurrence of the meeting after elections" - in Turkey in March, and the local government and Europarliament elections in Greece - "in combination with the political calendar in both countries."

[10] Gov't spokesman Kedikoglou on SYRIZA leader Tsipras' bid for the EC presidency

Kedikoglou asked Tsipras if he accepted the backing by political parties in northern Cyprus, thus recognizing the Turkish-Cypriot pseudostate, if he will fight for the unhindered inflow into Greece of illegal migrants and the abolition of Frontex, if he cooperates with Ceausescu's "political descendents" and other purely Communist and Stalinist political parties/fossils of the past with extreme anti-European positions, if he has pledged to lead Greece out of NATO and who will be the EU's ally in case of a confrontation with the US.

"Mr. Tsipras, the Greek people wait for clear answers and not for hidden agendas," Kedikoglou underlined.

[11] SYRIZA calls on gov't to brief Parliament on contracts with 'bailout' consultants

According to the main opposition, the news report has unveiled a huge political scandal linked to the financial consultancies that have played a central role in all eurozone bailouts, leaving both the EU-IMF troika and the governments of those countries exposed.

In its report, euobserver.com said that "their 'independent' expertise is used by the 'troika' of international lenders - the European Central Bank (ECB), the European Commission and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) - to decide how much countries or banks need to prevent a default".

The report underlined that "they are often hired without a public tender, raising questions of transparency and accountability. They are sometimes hired despite potential conflicts of interest, which arise from links to investment funds and other financial service providers. The consultancies also hire subcontractors, posing extra questions on who has access to inside information and how they use it. Aside from local law firms, the subcontractors almost always include one or more of the 'Big Four' accountancy companies - Deloitte, Ernst&Young, KPMG and PriceWaterhouseCoopers (PwC). The end result is a 'golden circle' of a dozen or so large firms with a de facto monopoly on handling EU bailouts".

SYRIZA called on the government to take a stand on the issue, to place all relevant contracts under Parliamentary scrutiny and explain where the taxpayers money is going.

[12] Admin. Reform Minister Mitsotakis asks for crosschecks of civil servants qualifications

"We are determined to continue this difficult effort to redress past injustices and prevent new ones, in the framework of reforming public administration," Mitsotakis said.

In the circular, Mitsotakis asked all public-sector services to crosscheck the certificates and other qualifications in each civil servant's records that are related to their appointment, transfer or change in employment status, in collaboration with the authorities that issued them. In cases of inaccuracies regarding qualifications such as degrees, success in exams, as well as in cases where the employee lacks the qualifications demanded for a position, the minister asked that the appointment in question be immediately revoked and a disciplinary inquiry launched to determine whether management might be considered liable for the illegal appointments, transfers or promotions.

"After four months of intensive checks, the first information is emerging regarding the existence of fake qualifications among the supporting documents used by public servants for their appointments or promotions. The inspection has revealed 45 cases within the [former] municipal police forces, where the appointments are gradually being revoked. The figures show that a problem with fake qualifications exists. Now we attempt to uncover its full extent," Mitsotakis said.

A second ministry circular, meanwhile, gave a January 15 deadline for the submission of assessment reports on employees of all public-sector agencies and services, with the exception of primary and secondary school teacers. According to the ministry, failure to meet this deadline or submitting a biased report will constitute a disciplinary offence.

[13] Interior minister meets Iraqi displacement and migration minister in Athens

Mihelakis also held talks with the Cypriot Ambassador in Athens Phaedon Anastasiou to discuss cooperation between Greece, Cyprus, Italy and Israel on a regional level for development projects.

The minister continued the round of meetings with talks with Qatari Ambassador to Greece Nayef Shahein Al-Sulaiti, who delivered an official invitation to Mihelakis to visit Qatar from the country's premier and interior minister.

There followed a meeting with Romania's ambassador in Athens Lucian Fatu on cooperation in local government issues.

[14] Greek politicians' source of wealth statements go online on Monday

The statements (for fiscal year 2011) total 694 and cover the spectrum of Greek politicians - the current and former prime ministers, current and former ministers and deputy ministers (whether they have served as MPs or not), current and former deputies and Eurodeputies, and current and former heads of political party finances.

Parliament Vice President Giorgos Kalantzis told the press that the statements have all been audited by certified public accountants.

The source of wealth statements include real estate property (and related rights), domestic or foreign shares and bonds (and all financial products), bank and similar deposits in Greece and abroad, vehicles of all types, and partnerships in companies. The audits checked for correspondence between the stated income and the cost of living data for each person.

The statements will stay online for a month, until January 14. According a change in the law, as of next year the "source of wealth" (pothen esches) statements for politicians will only be publicized when there is a change in assets.

Prime Minister Antonis Samaras' declared income in 2011 included no important changes compared with 2010, according to his source of wealth statement made public on Monday. His income from his Parliamentary compensation and other sources was 128,184.79 euros in 2011, while in 2010 his income was 127,212 euros.

The declared income of his wife Georgia Kritikou was 52,525.89 euros in 2011, while in 2010 it was 53,625 euros.

The couple in 2011 declared total bank deposits of 297,675.38 euros and 983.30 GBP, while in 2010 they had declared 276,679 euros, 25,119 GBP and 12,825 USD. They own 3,800 shares.

Details on the real estate property owned by the prime minister and his wife were uploaded on the Greek Parliament's website.

In 2011, PASOK leader and government vice-president Evangelos Venizelos declared that his Parliamentary compensation was 94,310.05 euros, 7,593 euros less compared with 2010 when his parliamentary compensation was 101,903.80 euros.

His wife earned 55,607.37 euros in 2011 and 60,049.80 in 2010.

According to the statement, Venizelos, his wife and daughter have bank accounts with a total of 1.6 million euros, reduced by 700,000 euros compared with 2010. They also declared 128,730 euros, 61 USD and 84,444 GBP.

They also own shares and bonds. No change has been declared in the couple's real estate property in 2011.

Main opposition Radical Left Coalition (SYRIZA) leader Alexis Tsipras' income is reduced by 8,500 euros in 2011 compared with 2010.

In 2011, his Parliamentary compensation was 72,330 euros, while 1,740 euros came from other sources (total income 74,070.24 euros), compared with 2010 when his declared income was 82,572.54 euros.

In 2011, he declared bank deposits of 100.075 euros compared with 11,360 euros in 2010.

His real estate property is a 114sqm house in Athens.

Opposition Democratic Left (DIM.AR) leader Fotis Kouvelis' income was reduced in 2011, as well as his bank deposits.

His parliamentary compensation in 2011 was 88,735 euros, compared with 104,978 in 2010.

His wife Fotini Palla earned 15,063.87 euros in 2011, compared with 30,678 euros in 2010.

The couples' bank deposits were reduced from 172,299 euros in 2010 to 119,529 euros in 2011.

Their real estate property is unchanged. They own a total of 15 apartments, building plots and farmland. They also own 5,000 shares worth 17,608 euros.

According to opposition Communist Party of Greek Parliamentary group leader Aleka Papariga's source of wealth statement, her Parliamentary compensation was 70,612.71 euros in 2011 compared with 79,367.56 euros in 2010, reduced by 9,754.85 euros.

Her pension increased by 2,140 euros as in 2011 she received 42,305.96 euros, compared with 40,174 euros in 2010.

Her real estate property remained unchanged. She owns 62.5 pct of a 90sqm apartment she inherited.

Opposition Independent Greeks (AN.EL) leader Panos Kammenos' Parliamentary compensation was 86,088 euros in 2011, while rental income amounted to 72,000 euros compared to 2010 when his Parliamentary compensation was 88,027 euros and rental income was 66,000 euros.

His wife Eleni Tzouli in 2011 declared earnings of 9,980 euros from her law practice and rental income 3,600 euros, compared with 2010 when her declared income was 34,844 euros.

Kammenos' bank deposits were reduced by 6,400 euros in 2011, falling to 1,600 euros, while his wife's bank account has only 36 euros compared to 11,000 euros in 2010.

The stocks and the real estate property he owns remain unchanged.

Opposition Golden Dawn (GD) leader Nikos Mihaloliakos declared an income of 23,939.21 euros in 2011 and his wife GD MP Eleni Zaroulia 33,698 euros from different sources.

They do not declare their Parliamentary compensation because they were elected to Parliament in 2012.

Mihaloliakos has a bank account with 399 euros, while his wife has 26,096 euros in the bank.

The couple's real estate property is unchanged.

More details at www.hellenicparliament.gr.

[15] Parliament to discuss suspending state funding for Golden Dawn party on Tuesday

The committee's proposal will be discussed before the Parliament plenum on Tuesday and concerns the last installment of funding to GD, amounting to 300,000 euros.

"It is inconceivable for the government, the state and tax-payers to fund parties that are accused of being criminal or terrorist organisations, who seek to disguise themselves under the mantle of a political party," said Interior Minister Yiannis Mihelakis while addressing the committee.

Meanwhile, in the latest development in an ongoing judicial investigation into the party's activities, the examining magistrates in charge of the case decided that three GD members already facing charges for attacks on trade unionists and Communist Party of Greece (KKE) members in Perama should also be remanded in custody for the additional charge of joining a criminal organisation.

[16] Transport minister presents new 'digital' Post Office

The changes will help ELTA "to soar", Chryssohoidis said. He stressed that post office workers will not be among those included in the mobility scheme for reducing the size of Greece's public sector and that there were no immediate plans for the privatisation of the service.

"ELTA had sunk in the stagnation that was characteristic of us all in recent years. Today, though, I am satisfied and proud because both the management and the staff have made many and important steps of progress toward reform," he said.

The changes planned include the introduction of digital stamps and other innovations that are expected to modernise and enhance the reliability and quality of the postal service. The new stamps will be equipped with a 'Quick Response Code' (QRC) tile that, when scanned, links the user to the ELTA site on the internet. Using a cell phone, customers can obtain information on all ELTA services and the addresses and opening hours of ELTA branches, as well as all e-shop services.

[17] Public order minister meets with Iraqi Migration minister

During their meeting, they discussed issues of bilateral interest, focusing on illegal immigration and bilateral cooperation in internal security and in dealing with terrorism, among other issues.

[18] KKE says anti-popular measures will continue

KKE added that "those who are on this side, like the government and the rest of the political parties of the European one-way street, do not want or can stop the anti-popular downhill course".

[19] PASOK leader congratulates Kouvelis on reelection as DIM.AR's president

"The Parliamentary and in general institutional role of the President of a Parliamentary party is concerned with the functioning of our democratic constitution and therefore surpasses the boundaries of party politics," Venizelos said, expressing confidence that Kouvelis will fully meet the requirements of this aspect of his position.

[20] KKE leader and Palestinian Authority envoy discuss Palestinian problem

According to a KKE press release, "during the meeting the need to strengthen the solidarity movement and support the struggle of the Palestinian people against the Israeli occupation, was taken into account."

Koutsoumbas confirmed KKE's steadfast solidarity with the Palestinians' struggle and repeated the party's positions on the Palestinian problem, calling for the development and creation of an independent, viable and sovereign Palestinian state having the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital and the withdrawal of Israeli army forces.

[21] Left-wing parties say gov't must comply with ECHR ruling on same-sex cohabitation agreements

"We all have the same fundamental rights. The Greek state must intervene and not deny a fundamental right to people of different sexual orientation; the right to shape their own life together," said Greek Union for Human Rights General Secretary Evangelos Mallios.

[22] Former FinMin Papantoniou indicted on tax evasion charges

Papantoniou's wife, Stavroula Kourakou, is being charged for direct complicity in the former minister's act. The case regards deposits of about 1.33 million euros in a Swiss bank that were detected through the so-called Lagarde list. The money had not been declared in 2008 or in subsequent years by either of them.

The former minister is already facing charges over his source of wealth statement in 2008, along with his wife. They have both testified and were released on bail amounting to 50,000 and 200,000 euros, respectively, last April. Papantoniou claims that he was unaware of the existence of the controversial amount of money since the bank account was an asset belonging to his wife from her previous marriage.

Financial News

[23] EU Commissioner Hahn approves Greece's major motorway projects

European Commissioner for Regional Policy Johannes Hahn on Monday approved EU financial support worth 2.97 billion euros for the construction of four major motorways in Greece.

According to the Commission, these investments, considered to be among the most important infrastructure projects in Greece, will play a decisive role in the country's economic recovery, connecting its regions with fast and safe motorways. The Commission also found that the financial support granted by Greece is in line with EU state aid rules.

The European Commission and the Greek authorities have identified the motorways as "priority projects" investments, key to creating jobs and to the development of the country and its regions. It is expected that more than 6,000 jobs will be created during their construction. The projects should be completed by the end of 2015 and roughly 1,700 people will be employed in managing them.

Commissioner Hahn, who signed the co-financing decisions, following ratification of the projects by the Greek parliament last week, underlined that "these projects and their abrupt interruption were visible casualties of the crisis in Greece. Their resumption and the fact that the European Commission and several European companies are again prepared to invest in them, is a sign of growing confidence in Greece's recovery".

He also added that "the Trans European Network for Transport of which these motorways are a part of (PAThE), is essential for connecting the continent and for the smooth functioning of Europe's single market," noting that "the competitiveness of the regions they pass through will be improved, making them more attractive to investors". He underlined that the investments will create the right conditions for growth and jobs and improve the citizens' quality of life.

The concessioners, Greek construction companies and European companies from several EU member states, have recently signed the recasting of the project. Financing sources, besides the Greek state, include the European Investment Bank (EIB) and about 40 Greek and international banks.

The four investments come under the EU Regional Policy programme "Reinforcing Accessibility", funded through the European Regional Development Fund and the Cohesion Fund in Greece.

The Ionian motorway concession relates to the construction of the 196km-long section Antirio-Ioannina along with the works to upgrade existing sections of the PATHE motorway (namely, the Patra-Athens-Thessaloniki motorway, which is part of the Trans European Transport Network). The motorway will pass through four Greek regions: Epirus, Western Greece, Sterea Ellada and Attiki. The European Regional Development Fund will finance 723.6 million euros and reduction in road accidents is expected to be above 37 pct.

The completion of the Maliakos-Kleidi concession passing through the regions of Thessaly and Central Macedonia, is about the construction of the Evangelismos-Skotina (24,71 km) stretch, along with works to upgrade existing sections (204,70 km) of the PATHE motorway. The Cohesion Fund will finance 699 million euros and reduction in road accidents is expected to be more than 30 pct.

The completion of the Elefsina-Corinth-Patras motorway concession refers to the construction of the Corinth-Patras (120 km) section, including the upgrade of existing sections (81,5 km) of the PATHE motorway. The motorway will pass through the regions of Western Greece, Peloponnese and Attiki. The European Regional Development Fund will finance 977 million euros, with an estimated reduction in road accidents of more than 38 pct.

The completion of the Central Greece motorway concession for the E-65 motorway, relates to the construction of the 78.5 km long section of Xyniada-Trikala. The motorway runs through Thessaly and Sterea Ellada and the Cohesion Fund will finance 570 million euros. The estimated reduction in road accidents is expected to be more than 30 pct.

[24] FinMin to extend statute of limitations in tax audits approaching deadline

Their statute of limitations expires on December 31, and the Finance ministry is seeking to extend it to two years to give tax bureaus time for a review.

In a memo to the tax service, Theocharis outlined the manner in which these would be carried out. They include cases of inheritance or transfer of property, property for which mortgage or collateral debt has been used for tax credit, agricultural land with buildings on it.

Tax, insurance fund debts to be withheld from reimbursements to individuals as of Jan. 1

Any individual expecting a reimbursement from the government will be obliged to provide proof of whether they owe anything, in which case their return will be used to cover outstanding debts to the state, according to a decision in effect January 1, 2014.

The joint decision by Alternate Finance Minister Christos Staikouras and Deputy Minister Giorgos Mavraganis relates to any debts from taxes or insurance funds.

According to the decision, reimbursement will be frozen if the individual has not filed a tax return until he or she does so.

The Finance Ministry hopes to collect outstanding debts to the state and insurance funds.

[25] Dodecanese Bank to use Alpha Bank's network as of Monday

During their first visit to any branch of Alpha Bank, customers must provide the required proof of identification (ID card or valid passport or other official identification document) and the account number they used to have at the Dodecanese Bank.

[26] Attiki Region needs anti-flood investments worth over 2.5 billion euros, regional gov. says

Addressing a Regional Council meeting, he referred to the projects already completed, noting that since 2003 the Athens Prefecture and its successor, the Attiki Regional Authority, have completed a total of 153 anti-flood projects with a budget of 211 million euros, while the projects currently underway have a budget of 254 million euros. Sgouros also noted that available community resources and own resources are being utilized.

He underlined that within the next 2.5 months he will submit a detailed report on all high-risk areas in the Region of Attiki, noting that resources have been cut 67 pct.

[27] AEGEK signs preliminary agreement for 10 pct stake in Aegean Motorway

More specifically, Aegek signed a preliminary agreement with the other shareholders of the concession project Maliakos-

Kleidi Aegean Motorway SA to transfer to them, according to their share capital in the Aegean Motorway, 50,000 shares owned by Aegek, which represent 10 percent of the share capital of Aegean Motorway, for 3 million euros.

The above agreement will be completed upon fulfillment of the conditions listed in the preliminary agreement, no later than on February 28, 2014.

[28] State budget cash balance shows net deficit of 4.0 bln euros, central bank announces

The central bank noted that this turns to a surplus of 3.131 billion euros, however, if the revenue amounting to 1.500 billion euros regarding Securities Market Programme (SMP) income transfers from Eurosystem central banks is included and expenditure of about 5.638 billion euro for the repayment of arrears is excluded.

The central government cash balance in the same period showed a deficit of 9.964 billion euros, compared to a deficit of 7.672 billion euros in the same period in 2012. During this period, ordinary budget revenue, excluding revenue of 1.5 billion euro regarding Securities Market Programme (SMP) income transfers from Eurosystem central banks, amounted to 41.64 billion euro, compared to 42.92 billion euros in the corresponding period of last year. Ordinary budget expenditure, including expenditure of about 5,638 million euros for the repayment of arrears, amounted to 52,080 million euros, from 48,830 million euros in January-November 2012.

[29] Employment seems to stabilise, minister says for Jan.-Nov. period

More specifically, recruitments came to 1,039,397 in the January-November period, up 29.9 percent on a year-to-year basis, while dismissals reached 925,908. Some 625,805 of them were the result of break or end of contract or fixed term maturities, while 300,103 were voluntary redudancies. The largest number of recruitments (14,341) was recorded in June and the highest number of redudancies (34,999) in October.

"November employment data in the private sector seem to confirm and consolidate the trend of stabilisation in labour market," Labour Minister Yiannis Vroutsis commented following the announcement of employment data collected automatically through the Ergani system, which documents the changes in private sector employment.

[30] Employment in retail trade down 1.1 pct in Q3

In the food sector, the index increased by 0.6 percent while in the non-food sector, except automotive fuel, decreased by 3.8 percent.

The index of number of persons employed in retail trade increased by 0.4 percent in the third quarter 2013, compared with the second quarter this year. In the food sector, the index increased by 0.9 percent while in the non-food sector, except automotive fuel, increased by 0.3 percent on a quarter-to-quarter basis.

[31] Union of Greek Shipowners delegation received by U.S. government officials

The delegation was received by the heads of private shipping organizations, such as the World Shipping Council, the Chamber of Shipping of America, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the U.S. Grains Council. Discussions focused on the positive impact of lifting barriers to the shipping services' market during the trade negotiations between USA, EU and the Pacific countries. In addition, issues such as pollution caused by ships emissions and how it can be monitored, were discussed.

[32] Greek trade deficit at 14.5 bln euros in Jan-Sep, Eurostat

The EU executive's statistics service said that Greek exports grew 5.0 pct in the nine-month period, while imports fell by 3.0 pct.

Eurostat said that France recorded the highest trade deficit in the EU-27 (57.5 bln) followed by the UK (55.1 bln euros), while the highest trade surplus was recorded by Germany (148.3 bln euros), Holland (40.5 bln) and Ireland (28.5 bln).

[33] Greek stocks slide below 1,150-point 'barrier'

The Large Cap index fell 0.48 pct and the Mid Cap index fell 0.79 pct. Coca Cola HBC (2.27 pct), Alpha Bank (1.71 pct), Terna Energiaki (0.82 pct), Piraeus Bank (0.68 pct) and Titan (0.51 pct) were top gainers among blue chip stocks, while Folli Follier (-3.42 pct), Ellaktor (-3.12 pct), GEK Terna (-2.94 pct), Hellenic Petroleum (-2.74 pct) and MIG (-2.68 pct) made the biggest losses.

The only sector with posting gains during the day was Foods (2.25 pct). The sectors with the biggest losses were Retail (-3.43 pct), Health (-2.67 pct) and Oil and Gas (-1.87 pct).

Broadly, decliners led advancers by 93 to 46, with another 21 issues unchanged. Minerva (21.81 pct), NEL (19.61 pct) and Proodeftiki (14.96 pct) were top gainers, while Perseus (-19.31 pct), Pegasus (-19.05 pct) and Boutaris (16.42 pct) were top losers.

Sector indices on Monday ended as follows:

Industrials: -1.51%

Retail: -3.43%

Construction-Materials: -1.00%

Oil & Gas: -1.87%

Personal & Household: -1.71%

Raw Materials: -1.60%

Travel & Leisure: -1.53%

Technology: -1.43%

Telecoms: -0.22%

Banks: -0.16%

Food & Beverages: 2,25%

Health: -2.67%

Utilities: -1.33%

Financial Services: -0.79%

The stocks with the highest turnover were OTE, Piraeus Bank, OPAP and Folli Follie.

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

Alpha Bank: 0.594

Public Power Corp (PPC): 10.30

Coca Cola HBC: 19.36

Hellenic Petroleum: 7.80

National Bank of Greece: 4.17

Eurobank Properties : 8.07

OPAP: 9.55

OTE: 9.20

Piraeus Bank: 1.49

Titan: 19.55

[34] Greek bond market closing report

In interbank rates, interest rates posted a marginal rise. The 12-month rate rose to 0.563 pct from 0.0.556 pct on Friday, the nine-month rate rose to 0.484 pct from 0.477 pct, the six-month rate rose to 0.387 pct from 0.38 pct, the three-month rate rose to 0.29 pct from 0.282 pct and the one-month rate rose to 0.234 pct from 0.225 pct.

[35] ADEX closing report

Volume in futures contracts on equities totaled 33,441 contracts worth 12.721 million euros, with investment interest focusing on MIG contracts (9,474 ), followed by Piraeus Bank (5,409), Mytilineos (3,487), Alpha Bank (2,566), OTE (2,204), PPC (1,748), OPAP (1,523), Ethniki Bank (1,082) Ellaktor (943), GEK (916), Jumbo (689), Intralot (572), Eurobank (413), EYDAP (312), Hellenic Petroleum (263), Terna Energiaki (247), Hellenic Exchanges (227), Sidenor (213), Frigoglass (211), Motor Oil (197), Titan (153), Eurobank Properties (142), Corinth Pipeworks (126), Metka (123).

General News

[36] Glyptothek of Munich director talks to the ANA-MPA on the role of art in Greek-German relations, the crisis and the Parthenon Marbles

The dresses in the show are made by AMD student Katja Heidrich and will be displayed in the Glyptothek's gallery of Greek sculptures collected by Bavaria's King Ludwig I, father of King Otto of Greece.

In between Greek and Roman sculptures, most of them dating from the 6th century BC to the 6th century AD, a special "catwalk" will be set up and eight silk dresses from the company's 2014 collection will be presented. The clothes are inspired by all the connecting points of Thrace and Bavaria.

On the occasion of the event, Glyptothek of Munich Director Dr. Florian Knauss talked to the ANA-MPA about the role of art in relations between Greece and Germany. In addition, Dr.Knauss talked about the Greek economic crisis and the Parthenon Marbles.

ANA-MPA: Can ancient and modern art, through events like this specific fashion show, make relations between Greece and Germany closer?

Dr. Florian Knauss: "In my opinion, common historical and cultural traditions bind us with stronger links than an economic union. The ancient Greeks, especially, still play a crucial role as a standard for many of us. Part of the essence of ancient Greek sculpture was the empasis on the person - not on gods and kings, but on human beings in general. These sculptures were not just people wearing tunics, but humanity itself. That is why ancient Greek art is timeless to a certain degree and served as a model for subsequent generations of artists. The modern Greek fashion show connected to the ancient sculptures makes it clear to the public that this art can never be old-fashioned and obsolete. This also applies to the German public, which did not learn much about ancient Greece at school."

"I am sure that both the Glyptothek of Munich and "Arsinoe of Thrace" will benefit from this cooperation. I cannot think of a more beautiful setting for this fashion show than our museum. The people of our museum are also very happy that our collections will be shown in this way to visitors who did not know them until today," added Dr. Knauss.

When asked whether he considers that there are elements of Greece's historical past, from which Greeks could draw inspiration for overcoming the crisis, Dr.Knauss noted that "every country can look back at its past with pride, perhaps especially Greeks."

"However, today there are now new demands placed on each country. People can feel proud more through their own efforts and less through their ancestors' achievements. Greeks are charismatic. Young, Greek people are very intelligent, technicians are talented and businessmen are smart. Just as in ancient Greece, today the country must rely on its human resources, intelligence and the original creativity of its people," he said.

As for the Parthenon Marbles, Dr. Knauss said that Greece benefits from the Greek art collections exhibited in museums throughout the world. "Having the opportunity to see Greek sculptures or vases in London, Paris or New York, millions of people learn and recognize the beauty and meaning of Greek culture. They fall in love with Greece because they admire these masterpieces. This is why they decide to visit the country from which these specific art objects originate," stressed Dr. Knauss.

According to Dr. Knauss, the world's art, not only that of ancient Greece, has been dispersed among museums in many countries as a result of the course of history and all countries had large losses. "For over a century, there have been international laws related to the sale of archaeological finds. With few exceptions, the law states that they have to remain in the country that they were found," said Dr. Knauss. "We must respect this law, but not try to turn back the wheel of history. Greece and especially the Acropolis Museum and the National Museum already have plenty of masterpieces to offer to visitors."

[37] Northern Greek ski resorts open, snow at low levels

Three ski lifts are in operation at Vassilitsa (which has 70cm of snow), in the Grevena area, while in Pisoderi, near Florina, which has only 40cm of snow, the only lift in operation is the babylift.

The snow quality in 3-5 Pigadia near Naoussa is excellent due to the artificial snow system. A total of 23 snow production 'cannons' are producing snow, providing excellent conditions for skiing.

At the Elatochori skiing centre, in the Pieria area, only an airlift is in operation, allowing visitors to tour the resort.

[38] Chania: Municipality's care program for stray animals

So far, 182 strays have already been examined by veterinarians who have a contract with the municipality for this purpose. Another 174 animals were tagged with a microchip, and more than 140 were vaccinated.

According to the municipality, 182 animals have been examined by vets, 188 animals have been vaccinated and 61 animals have been spayed or neutered, while 34 injured or sick animals received care. Thirteen animals were adopted by citizens.

The programme, funded by the municipality, includes veterinary examinations, electronic microchip tagging, deworming, spaying, neutering and responding to emergencies like injuries and poisonings.

[39] Panathinaikos FC fans donate two tons of food, staples to City of Athens programme

"When charity is converted into a solidarity movement we can hope that fewer and fewer of our fellow citizens will be deprived of the essentials," Athens Mayor Giorgos Kaminis said, expressing his gratitude towards Panathinaikos' club managers.

"Panathinaikos' fans mass participation in this effort is not just moving, generating a sense of satisfaction and responsibility, but is also an example of participation and public awareness," Kaminis said.

[40] Patras authorities arrest traffickers and migrants

Police reported the arrests of an Egyptian, Dutch and Iraqi national for trying to facilitate the illegal transportation of migrants to Italy.

Port authorities also intercepted 14 foreign nationals from Syria, Palestine, Pakistan and Nigeria who tried to travel to ports in Italy using fake travel documents, as well as two traffickers and eight foreign nationals who tried to stow away on ships leaving for Italy by hiding in goods vehicles.

[41] Court acquits all defendants in stock market bubble case

The 42 defendants, including entrepreneurs, investors, brokers and shipowners, were facing heavy offenses, such as fraud and money laundering.

The court's decision held that the documents and the hearing could not establish the charges of fraud, because it showed that the selling price of the disputed shares did not affect their prices at the Athens stock exchange during specific period.

The case was tried thirteen years after the prosecutions first initiated by the public prosecutor Dimitris Asprogerakas in 2000 following a 1999 investigation into possible manipulation of shares.

[42] The Monday edition of Athens' dailies at a glance

ELEFTHROTYPIA: Between the devil and the deep blue sea.

ELEFTHEROS TYPOS: The secrets for pension with successive insurance.

ESTIA: Taxpayers' salvation wanted.

ETHNOS: 'Secret' salaries and pensions targeted.

NAFTEMPORIKI: Businesses sell assets to boost liquidity.

TA NEA: State will halt payment in case of tax or social security debts.

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