The Hellenic Radio (ERA): News in English, 04-03-03

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

CONTENTS

[01] Greek doctors save Turkish infant's life in Cyprus

A suffering child has broken barriers on divided Cyprus, where Greek Cypriot authorities bent their own rules to save a Turkish life. Seven-month-old Oguzhan Giftgi was back at home with his Turkish-born parents in the north of the island today, after 24 days of intensive treatment for acute renal failure in the Greek Cypriot south. Against their own regulations, Greek Cypriots allowed Oguzhan's parents into the south every day with a United Nations escort.

[02] Britain warns Greek Cypriots against complacency

Britain waded into the Cyprus peace process today with an implicit warning to the Greek Cypriots that they cannot afford to be complacent about their future position in the European Union. British Foreign Secretary Jack Straw, on a visit to Turkey, said a "no" vote by Greek Cypriots and a "yes" vote by Turkish Cypriots to simultaneous referendums on April 21, could harm the Greek Cypriot cause.

[03] ND leader pledges favourable measures for farmers

The main opposition New Democracy leader Costas Karamanlis today pledged a final settlement of debts owed by farmers and cattle breeders to the Agricultural Bank. He announced an extension of their social security coverage, a reduction in the interest on loans and production costs, as well as the immediate payment of any compensation owed by the state. This evening, the ND leader will speak at an open-air rally in Larissa.

[04] PM defends governments' policies

The governments policies since 1996 were defended today by Prime Minister Costas Simitis, who is currently touring the island of Zakynthos. Simitis noted that his governments were successful in economic growth, a tangible improvement in the living standards of the Greek people, increased wages, pensions and incomes, reduced unemployment, and a redistribution of wealth.

[05] Tax/investment law changes ahead - Papandreou

Pasok leader George Papandreou revealed today crash changes to Greek tax and foreign investment laws, if his socialist party retains power in Sunday's general election. The would-be prime minister also said he would take personal charge of Athens' preparations for the August Olympic Games, even holding a grand review of delayed projects within hours, if he is elected.

[06] Friction increases between Pasok and ND over public officials

Friction is intensifying between the two major parties Pasok and New Democracy following yesterdays statements by ND deputy Vyron Polydoras regarding the dismissal of thousands of officials, considered loyal to the ruling Pasok party, in public administration, if the opposition party comes into power after the March 7 elections.

Pasok leader George Papandreou described it as a divisive policy that would set the country back many years.

[07] Weather forecast

A rainy and cold day is forecast, with some snow in the hills. Temperatures in Athens will range from 8 to 12 degrees centigrade, and in Thessaloniki from 4 to 8 degrees.

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