The Hellenic Radio (ERA): News in English, 00-09-19

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From: The Hellenic Radio (ERA) <www.ert.gr/>

CONTENTS

19/9/2000 10:13:26 рм

[01] Papandreou's radio interview

The interview was also broadcast by the "Kosmos FM" radio which belongs to the Greeks living in New York. Mr. Papandreou reiterated that Greece supported a solution of the Cyrpus issue based on the creation of a bizonal, bicommunal federation and described the rumors regarding the existence of different views on the issue in Cyprus as "gossip". The Greek Foreign minister pointed out that Greek-Turkish relations would improve only if the Cyprus issue was resolved.

Regarding Yugoslavia, Mr. Papandreou said that Greece as a friend advised Yugoslavia not to remain isolated but to enter the course of democratization by holding open and democratic elections. He stressed that the goal of the Greek Foreign policy is stability and not conflict, adding that after the elections in Yugoslavia the European Union and the international community should re-examine the issue of embargo imposed on Yugoslavia since Serbia's isolation did not contribute to stability in the region.

Mr. Papandreou also referred to the role the Greek-American loby played in the United States in promoting Greek national issues, stressing that the Greeks of the Diaspora were twice Greeks.

Finally, he stated that he would return back to the United States in October, visiting the West Coast in order to promote the idea of truce during the Olympic Games and meet with leaders of the region and Greeks living there.

[02] Concern over the rise of oil prices

Brent crude oil broke the barrier of $34 and is being sold at $34,62 per barrel a development caused partly by the new tension in the Middle East. In tandem Iraq accused Kuweit last week of stealing oil from Southern Iraq.

From its side, Saudi Arabia expects the rise of oil production before November 12, time when OPEC will convene. If oil prices continue to remain high, then unquestionably OPEC will decide for the increase of oil production by 500.000 barrels per day.

In the meantime, protests continue in all European countries reacting to the rise of oil prices.

[03] Klerides meets Soto

Mr. Klerides described the meeting as very good, adding that both men exchanged views. However, he avoided in revealing the subject of their discussion, remaining faithful to the absention of statements from both sides asked by the United Nations.

[04] Inflation in Europe

On the contrary the yearly inflation of the twelve-member countries of the Euro-zone fell from 2,4% in July to 2,3% in August.

The countries which sufferred the highest rates of inflation were Ireland with 5,7%, Luxembourg with 3,7%, Spain with 3,6% and Portugal with 3,6%. The countries with the lowest inflation rate were Britain with 0,6%, Sweden with 1,4% and Germany with 1,8%.

[05] 1,38% drop in Athens Stock Exchange yesterday

[06] Sydney Olympics

The Greek cycling team of Olympic sprint was also impressing. Lambros Vassilopoulos, Dimitris Georgalis and Kleanthis Barkas took the fourth place, losing the bronze medal- with a small difference- from Australia.

Despite his bad start, Greek Olympic champion Nikos Kaklamanakis came fifth yesterday in the third race of windsurfing and is holding the 11th position in general.

[07] Islamic Studies Centre to be ready in Athens in 2004

Replying to journalists' questions as to whether the founding of the Mosque served as a means of pressure for the re-opening of the Theological School in Chalki, a statement made by Mr.Erbakan, he said that the two issues were irrelevant, adding that Greece was not making a favour to Mr. Erbakan.

The Greek Culture minister added that the Greek Muslims have the right to believe in their religion on an equal basis.

[08] Panhellenic Marine Federation continues its mobilizations

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