The Hellenic Radio (ERA): News in English, 05-11-06

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

CONTENTS

[01] France Erupts Chaos and Violence

By Betty Savourdou

Sources: ΝΕΤ - AFP - Reuters

Following an emergency meeting of the National Security Council on Sunday night, the French President declared that it is an "absolute priority" to re-establish order and security, after the 10th night of violence in France. "The law must have the last word. The Republic is quite determined to be stronger than those who want to sow violence or fear," added Jacques Chirac. On his part, Prime Minister Dominique de Villepin, who attended the emergency meeting with Interior Minister Nicolas Sarkozy and Defence Minister Michele Alliot-Marie, said more police would be deployed where troubles flared, stressing, "We will not accept any lawless zones." In addition, de Villepin noted that he will be announcing his plans for the underdeveloped areas on Monday. Riots were recorded on Saturday night both in the centre of Paris, as well as other cities, including Strasbourg and Nantes. More than 1,300 cars, two schools and a library were torched, while 300 people were arrested, just last night, the tenth consecutive night of violence. In the meantime, the citizens are reacting with neighbourhood patrols.

Under Siege

Violent incidents were also recorded in other French cities, including Marseilles, Nice, Toulouse, Lille, Bordeaux and Montpellier.

According to official estimates, more than 800 people have been arrested and 3,500 vehicles torched, since the riots started on 27 October.

Experts claim that the outbreak of violence in migrant African communities was prompted by the long-term discontent towards the Governments rejection, the high unemployment and the debasement of ghettos.

Translated by Vicky Ghionis

Related News:

Nights of Rage

[02] 1,300 Cars Burnt to Ashes Nights of Rage

By Anna Kourti

Sources: AFP, ANA

Riots and vandalisms continue for the tenth night in the Parisian suburbs and other French cities. At least 1,300 cars were burnt down, as well as two schools and a public library, as per the Police, which have proceeded with 312 arrests. This was the heaviest toll of damages since the start of riots on October 27. The number of cars burnt rises to 1,295, of which 554 were located outside Paris, a fact which indicates that the violent episodes are spreading in other cities as well. For the first time in ten days, several cars were also destroyed at the heart of the French capital. Seven helicopters are flying over the "sensitive" districts of Paris, while 2,300 more policemen are on alert to deal with the situation. In France, there are some 750 "sensitive urban areas," hit by a high percentage of unemployment, great poverty and a strong feeling of social shutout for the children of African immigrants.

Translated by Sofia Soulioti

[03] No Progress on Free Trade Area Talks Americas Summit Falls Through

By Betty Savourdou

Sources: ΝΕΤ - Reuters - Associated Press

Discussions at the Summit of the Americas in Mar del Plata, Argentina, reached a dead-end, as the 34 leaders failed to reach an agreement in the creation of a Free Trade Area, rejecting a relevant proposal put forward by the United States. The US faced opposition from five Latin American countries, which said the plan could damage their economies. The Summit was marred by violent anti-US protests throughout Argentina, while they are also spreading to Brazil, where the US President is on an official visit.

"The Five Musketeers"

Out of the 34 countries that participated in the Summit, 29 were in favour of the plan, while the other five opposed the proposal. The final document, which was signed at the end of the deliberations, contained an appendix with the two rival statements. It should be noted that talks continued for eight hours beyond the scheduled end of the gathering.

"Today the big loser was Mr Bush," declared Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez, calling the five opponents of the plan "the five musketeers".

Some of the countries in favour of the US proposal expected that a date would be set sometime in April, to resume talks; however, Brazil, Argentina, Venezuela, Uruguay and Paraguay did not agree.

The Summit of the Americas was overshadowed by violent protests, which ended in clashes with the police.

In addition, collective actions have also been recorded in Brazil, where George Bush arrived for an official visit. Specifically, some 1,000 protestors staged an anti-US Rally in Sao Paolo.

Translated by Vicky Ghionis

Related News:

Argentinean Tango for Demonstrators

Related Links:

Summit of the Americas

[04] Honouring the Macedonian Fighters Coexisting despite Differences

By Betty Savourdou

Sources: NET - ANA

Speaking from Krystallopigi, Florina, where he attended a commemoration ceremony for the 100-year anniversary since the death of Macedonian fighter Captain Kottas, the President of the Hellenic Republic underlined that nationalistic differences do not necessarily constitute a reason for conflict. In addition, Karolos Papoulias reapproached the matter of the impending developments in Kossovo, stressing that the problems in the Balkans do not arise from the differences between nations, but the strife between powerful forces to wield their influence. Furthermore, he noted that, although Greece is not being threatened by anyone, it should remain on alert.

Captain Kottas' Heavy Legacy

During a luncheon hosted at the Officers Club by the Prefect of Florina, Giannis Stratakis, the Greek President gave a speech, referring to Slav-speaking Macedonian Fighter Captain Kottas, who was executed by a Turkish firing squad.

"When we reflect on this great historical figure, we should keep two things in mind. Firstly, that he was a Slav-speaker, a fact demonstrating that nationalistic differences are not an implicit reason for conflict. Secondly, his unfortunate death by a Turkish firing squad, after being betrayed by his co-fighters, demonstrates that on many occasions, it is the minor things discords and bigotry that eradicate the major issues, while, during turbulent times, the recognition of historical truth becomes tough," he underlined.

Mr Papoulias also referred to the developments in the Balkans, in view of finalising the situation in Kossovo, noting that Greece believes in the European prospects of the Balkan countries and is working towards that direction.

Meanwhile, he declared that, although Greece is not being threatened by anyone, it should remain on alert, in order to maintain its titles.

On his part, the Prefect stressed that Florina is the last Greek region to still be paying for the consequences of the civil war. He also added that the matter concerning the political refugees living in FYROM, and who cannot return to Greece, should be resolved. "Our country [Greece] has nothing to fear from a few old men that want to return and be buried in their homeland," he noted, while he proposed that the issue should be finalised with the erection of a National Reconciliation monument.

Earlier the President of the Hellenic Republic inaugurated a painting and memorabilia exhibition, dedicated to the liberation of Florina from Turkish occupation.

Translated by Vicky Ghionis

[05] 23rd Athens Classic Marathon Kenya and Ethiopia

By Anna Kourti

The 23rd Athens Classic Marathon was completed with absolute success on Sunday. More than 4,500 runners participated in the classic race and the 10km road race, finishing at Panathinaiko Stadium. Kenyan James Saina with a time of 2:16:05 and Sisay Measo from Ethiopia with 2:38:39 finished first in men and women respectively. Top Greek athlete and winner of the Greek Championship was Gerasimos Kokotos who ranked seventh overall with a time of 2:24:52. Georgia Abatzidou finished third with 2:42:50 and received the title of the Greek Championship for a fifth year in a row. Gold Olympian Stefano Baldini signalled the start of the Marathon. During the race, traffic was interrupted gradually around Athens. The opening ceremony was held on Saturday afternoon at the Olympic Complex in Paleo Faliro. The Athens Classic Marathon is held every year in honour of Grigoris Labrakis.

Translated by Sofia Soulioti

[06] Closer to the Citizens

By Betty Savourdou

Sources: NET 105.8 - ANA

Greek PM Kostas Karamanlis message to the party and the ND MPs, in view of the legislative initiatives in Parliament and the attacks by the Opposition at a political level, will be: "Closer to the citizens, based on NDs programme and precipitation of the Governments reform project." On Monday, the PM will meet with NDs general manager, Kostas Simeoforidis, and the secretary of the partys parliamentary group, Apostolos Stavrou, to discuss the mobilisation of party members and MPs, on the occasion of the municipal elections. At the same time, in an interview to newspaper Kyriakatiki Eleftherotypia, NDs Central Committee secretary, Vangelis Meimarakis, proposed that a dialogue, initiated by the Government, is needed that will focus on the review of the Constitution. In addition, he appeared in favour of a sincere dialogue to deal with any problems arising within the party.

Final Judges

Specifically, Mr Meimarakis announced the commencement of a discussion to review the Constitution, based on the Governments programme for the creation of private non-profit universities, provided the constitutional obstacle is lifted. This would, as he added, contain the outflow of money towards foreign countries and help develop healthy competition, so that state universities can also upgrade their curriculum. "I believe that a dialogue, initiated by the Government, is needed to review the Constitution on this specific matter, and not only," he noted.

With regard to the recent cases of "colleague backstabbing", Mr Meimarakis declared that they will be dealt with, mainly through dialogue, while at the same time reminding that "the citizens are the final judges."

As for the municipal elections, he repeated that ND would not be striking deals with other parties, but would encourage cooperation at a local level, based on the scheduled principles.

Finally, referring to their political message, he reminded that ND does not view the municipal elections as political, while he added that the conclusions arising from the specific electoral process are not completely safe, since there are other factors that influence the Local Self-Government elections.

Translated by Vicky Ghionis

[07] Political Responsibilities for DEKA

By Betty Savourdou

Former ND President Miltiadis Evert presented evidence for political responsibilities, which lie with the leadership of the Economy and Finance Ministry during the PASOK rule for their handlings regarding the Public Enterprise for Liquid Assets (DEKA). At the same time, in an interview he gave to Vima tis Kyriakis newspaper, Mr Evert stressed he is against a cabinet reshuffling, but in favour of a flexible combination including Dora Bakoyannis. As for him, he would not wish to participate in the new Government combination, as he is pleased with his present task. The former ND President also thinks that chosing Nikitas Kaklamanis for Athens Mayor is ideal for ND and said that Parliamentarian Nikos Georgiadis should be stricken from the party because of his positions regarding FYROM's name.

Translated by Sofia Soulioti

[08] Major Damages Arson Attack against Bank

By Anna Kourti

Sources: NET

A group of unknown youths launched an arson attack against a Bank of Cyprus branch, on 71-73 Akadimias Street, in the centre of Athens, by throwing homemade Molotov cocktails. The troublemakers broke the storefront and threw the makeshift bombs inside, resulting in a fire. The young men fled the scene immediately. The fire was put out a little later by the Fire Department; however, it caused major damages, estimated at 100,000 euros.

Translated by Vicky Ghionis

[09] 18 Died Killer Tornado

By Betty Savourdou

Sources: NET

A tornado struck Indiana and part of Kentucky, USA, during the night, resulting in the death of at least 18 people and the injury of a further 110. However, the authorities expressed fears that the death toll may rise, since the rescue crews are continuing their searches. The extent of the damages was revealed by first light. Hundreds of building and cars were destroyed, while thousands of homes remained without power. According to the US Media, the National Weather Service issued warnings for the area about 30 minutes before the tornado struck, but the citizens did not have time to evacuate the area, since most of them were asleep at the time.

Rare Occurrence

The tornado struck unexpectedly, touching down in northern Kentucky first, at around 2am (local time), before crossing into south Indiana. Warning sirens sounded 10 minutes before it struck.

The tornado caused damages extending 32km long and 1.3km wide, from north Kentucky to south Indiana.

Such a severe tornado is rare in the American Midwest in November, according to the US Storm Prediction Centre. Peak tornado season is generally from April through June, although Ohio was hit with a similarly deadly funnel cloud in November 2002, according to Storm Prediction Centre spokesperson Corey Mead.

Translated by Vicky Ghionis

[10] 3 out of 3 for Olympiacos

By Vasilis Kalpinos

During a great game behind closed doors, Olympiacos defeated Maroussi in the Peace and Friendship Stadium with a score of 71-67, for the 3rd round of Division A1 in the Greek basketball championship. The team from Piraeus is now in at the top of the rankings, along with Panathinaikos and Aris. Tyus Edney was the top scorer for Olympiacos with 17 points, while Blackney and Kolokas scored 16 points each for Maroussi. The score per period: 28-22, 44-43, 56-58, 71-67.

Translated by Vicky Ghionis

[11] Second Win for Olympia

By Vasilis Kalpinos

Olympia Larissa scored yet another victory, the second one in three games, defeating Iraklis by 78-74, during the game for the 3rd round of Division A1 in the Greek basketball championship. It was an exciting encounter right from the start, ending in a victory for the home team. Prodromos Nikolaidis of Olympia was the top scorer with 20 points. As for Iraklis, this was their second defeat. The score per period: 17-17, 35-34, 55-53, 78-74.

Translated by Vicky Ghionis

[12] Olympiacos Returns to the Top

By Stathis Petropoulos

Although Xanthi managed to climb to the top of the scoreboard unexpectedly, it crash-landed today, since it could not live up to the challenge against Olympiacos. The truth is that Xanthi had a run-in with bad luck early on in the game, as just in the 2, Torosidis scored an own-goal, while trying to clear the ball away. From that point onwards, Olympiacos seized the opportunity and played stress-free, while the guests were unable to turn the situation around. In the second half, Trond Soleids squad finished off the game quite quickly once again. Torosidis, who could not shake off his bad luck, knocked over Stoltidis in the box and was sent off with a yellow-red card. That gave Djordjevic the opportunity to score a successful penalty kick. Xanthi finished off the game with nine players, as Antzas was also shown a red card.

Referee: Zografos (Athens)

Yellow Cards: Kafes (Olympiacos) Luciano, Torosidis, Lambriakos (Xanthi) Red Cards: Torosidis (yellow-red), Anztas

OLYMPIACOS: Nikopolidis, Pantos (46 Mavrogenidis), Anatolakis, Georgatos, Stoltidis, Toure, kafes, Rivaldo, Babagida, Dani, Djordjevic

XANTHI: Pizanowski, Torosidis, Sikov, Paviot (71 Kazakis), Papadimitriou, Antzas, Emerson, Chiquinho, Mineiro, Luciano, Lambriakos.

Translated by Vicky Ghionis

[13] Unimpressive Win for PAOK

By Stathis Petropoulos

PAOK continues eyeing the top of the rankings, after defeating Panionios today in Toumba with a score of 1-0, reaching 15 points and trailing Panathinakos by two. Although the home team did not put in an impressive performance, they met no resistance from Panionios, scoring a victory with a penalty shot by Salpigidis, towards the end of the first half. The penalty was awarded to Mieciel, after he was knocked over by Cichon. The second half was quite uninteresting, since PAOK was trying to hold on to its lead, rather than making efforts to score.

Referee: Polatian (Pella)

Yellow Cards: Giannopoulos, Kiassos, Nalitzis, Shikabala, Zagorakis

PAOK: Fernandez, Akyel, Udeze, Chasiotis, Charalambous, Zagorakis, Shikabala, Feutchine (86 Karypidis), Maladenis (59 Balafas), Salpigidis, Mieciel (59 Christodoulopoulos)

PANIONIOS: Vaniak, Kontodimos, Cichon, Giannopoulos, Magdy (46 Sheppard), Nalitzis, Kiassos (84 Exouzidis), Makos, Smiljanic, Fernandez, Breska (60 Oravec).

Translated by Vicky Ghionis

[14] Panathinaikos' 3-pointer in Crete

By Vasilis Kalpinos

Panathinaikos remained as a contender for the title, scoring an away victory against OFI with 2-0, in a match for the 9th round of the Greek A Division championship. It took Panathinaikos just three minutes to score two goals in Pankritio Stadium, winning the three points of victory. In the 64, Flavio Conceicao scored the first goal of the match, as well as his first goal wearing Panathinaikos colours, with a direct free kick. Three minutes later, in the 67, Dimitris Papadopoulos, who also scored his first for the season, doubled his teams goals with a header, sealing Panathinaikos victory.

Referee: Pamboridis (Kilkis)

OFI: Sifakis, Davidson, Gonzales, Tomach (74 Kazantzis), Koltzos, Dejanov, Stavrakakis, Kounenakis, Pitsos, Machlas, Nwafor (62 Triantafyllou)

PANATHINAIKOS: Galinovic, Nilsson, Morris, Goumas, Vintra, Conceicao, Gonzales (72 Andric), Charalambidis, Wooter, Papadopoulos (80 Torghelle), Gekas (56 Mantzios).

Translated by Vicky Ghionis

[15] Tie for Akratitos in Leivadia

By Stathis Petropoulos

Todays game between Levadiakos and Akratitos could also be entitled "Escape from Leivadia", since, despite the fact that the home team had many opportunities to claim a victory, they tied against the guests with 1-1. As for Akratitos, after a whole 688 minutes without a goal, today, they managed to score, ending their streak of bad luck. Akratitos took the lead in the 58, with a goal by Londo, while Levadiakos tied the score in the 72 with Rusev.

Referee: Vasileiou

Yellow Cards: Dimou, Macquet, Sales, Vanoli (bench)

LEVADIAKOS: Zafiropoulos, Kallimanis, Chrysafis, Theodosiadis, Dimou (70 Masara), Dimitropoulos, Zisopoulos, Bassala (46 Veletanis), Gourma, Rusev, Bushi (62 Karakatsanis)

AKRATITOS: Stelea, Paganin, Badas, Obradovic, Pipinis, Zuela, Skoufalis (70 Marinescu), Sales (82 Defrancesco), Macquet, Gustavo, Londo.

Translated by Vicky Ghionis

[16] Return to Victories for Ionikos

By Vasilis Kalpinos

In the match for the 9th round of the Greek A Division championship, Ionikos defeated Apollon Kalamaria by 2-0 and returned to the victories. This was the first win for the team since 25 September, when they beat Kallithea by 2-1. The goals in todays match were both scored by Makor. The first came early on in the game, in the 4, while the second was scored towards the end, in the 82.

Referee: Dentsis

Yellow Cards: Perrone, Pappas Red Card: Samouilidis (yellow-red)

IONIKOS (Tsiolis): Beqaj, Poulopoulos, Vourexakis, King Ferreira, da Costa, Makor (87 Efthimiou), Melabianakis, Lettieri, Tsiblidis, Coimbra (62 Konstantinidis), Perrone (78 Benitez)

APOLLON KALAMARIA (Kokotovic): Kovac, Amponsah (83 Myroforidis), Samouilidis, Ioannou, Cleyton, Karamanlis, Murawski, Karaliopoulos, Orfanos, Pappas, Christoforidis (46 el Omari).

Translated by Vicky Ghionis

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