Athens News Agency: News in English, 09-11-25

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

CONTENTS

[01] Papandreou, Zapatero on Spain's EU presidency

[02] Stocks end sharply lower

[01] Papandreou, Zapatero on Spain's EU presidency

Papandreou referred to the international economic crisis as being the most outstanding problem facing the Union, along with the related problem of unemployment, for which he said the remedy lies in "green development" and greater investments in innovation, technology, education and renewable energy sources.

The Greek prime minister stated that he agreed with the priority set by Spain regarding "Mediterranean issues", meaning greater protection of the basin's ecosystem, and he termed a related summit in Barcelona as an "excellent initiative".

Referring to bilateral relations between Athens and Madrid, Papandreou said that he looks forward to cooperation between Greece and Spain regarding the transfer of know-how from the latter for renewable energy sources.

He also mentioned the discussion he had with his Spanish counterpart on Greece's views vis-à-vis the Balkans, ties with Turkey and the Cyprus issues, which he said will also arise during the Spanish EU presidency.

Zapatero predicted that the economic crisis will soon be overcome, while he referred to the significance of Mediterranean issues, stressing, in particular, that the Spanish EU presidency places heightened importance on cracking down on illegal immigration.

Referring to the Balkans and Turkey, the Spanish prime minister said that within the framework of his government's policy on these issues there will be close cooperation with the Greek prime minister.

Earlier, the Papandreou held a meeting with visiting Bulgarian President Georgi Parvanov at the Maximos Mansion and hosted reception for him.

Caption: A file photo, dated 10 July 2008, shows Spanish Prime Minister Jose Luis Zapatero (L) with Greek Prime Minister George Papandreou (R) during a meeting in Athens. The latter was then main opposition leader. ANA-MPA / EPA/PANTELIS SAITAS

[02] Stocks end sharply lower

Most sectors moved downwards with the Health (4.61 pct), Banks (4.13 pct), Media (3.99 pct) and Technology (3.70 pct) suffering the heaviest percentage losses of the day, while Travel (0.79 pct) and Chemicals (0.06 pct) scored gains.

The FTSE 20 index fell 2.79 pct, the FTSE 40 index ended 2.80 pct down and the FTSE 80 index plunged 3.19 pct. Broadly, decliners led advancers by 183 to 39 with another 32 issues unchanged.

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