The Hellenic Radio (ERA): News in English, 04-03-17

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

CONTENTS

[01] Denktash not to attend next round of Cyprus talks

Turkish-Cypriot leader Rauf Denktash said today he would not attend a next round of UN-backed reunification talks that will include Greece and Turkey, because he did not believe that the situation would change. Under the United Nations' timetable, officials from Greece and Turkey - the island's so-called "motherlands" - were to join the peace process for one week in Switzerland after March 22, if the Greek and Turkish Cypriot leaders were unable to forge a deal.

[02] Pasok leader to define party's opposition strategy

The leader of the main opposition Pasok party, George Papandreou, today held successive meetings with party officials, in view of the upcoming policy statements debate on Saturday. At tomorrows first meeting of Pasoks parliamentary group, Papandreou is expected to define in more detail the partys opposition tactics. Evangelos Venizelos said he would accept the post of Pasoks parliamentary spokesman, if appointed by Papandreou.

[03] Swearing-in of new parliament tomorrow

The new 300-member parliament will be sworn in tomorrow morning, while on Friday it will convene to elect a new speaker. On Saturday, a debate is scheduled on the governments policy statements, which will last until Monday midnight. A roll-call ballot will then be held to pass a vote in confidence in the new government.

[04] Opposition accuses government of trying to create false impressions

In a counter-attack, the main opposition party accused the New Democracy government of trying to create the impression that there were problems and that it would implement magic solutions. Pasok deputy Evangelos Venizelos said that to date 17 sports facilities have been delivered on time, and the rest will be ready in the very near future.

[05] Olympic Stadium roof to be ready on time say contractors

Olympic projects were also the focus of Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis agenda today, as he met with the Deputy Culture Minister, Fani Palli-Petralia and Athens Mayor Dora Bakoyanni. Petralia, who visited the Olympic Stadium, was assured by construction contractors that the spectacular roof, designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, would be ready by July 20.

[06] Ministers note delays in Olympic projects

The first post-election clash between the new government and the main opposition party took place today over preparations and security for the Athens Olympic Games in August. Ministers inspecting Olympic projects today noted some delays, for which they said efforts would be made to overcome, so that the works would be ready on time.

[07] Weather forecast

A mainly fine and mild day is forecast, with temperatures in Athens ranging from 9 to 20 degrees centigrade, and in Thessaloniki from 6 to 18 degrees.

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