The Hellenic Radio (ERA): News in English, 08-07-04

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

CONTENTS

[01] Siemens Case:

04 Ιουλ 2008 14:11:0 (Last updated: 04 Ιουλ 2008 17:10:5)

Sources: ΝΕΤ-ΝΕΤ 105.8-ΑNA/ΜPA

After Culture Minister Michalis Liapis publicized the receipts on his trip to Germany, the government considers his case closed. The government spokesman described the ministers explanations sufficient. Meanwhile, the PASOK president launched a fresh attack against the government and Mr Karamanlis after the end of the Political Committee meeting. At the same time, as per a Metron Analysis poll, commissioned by MEGA TV station, neither of the two big parties can combat corruption effectively. 23.1% believe that the ND party can do so and 15.8% PASOK. Meanwhile, the Magistrate has commenced examining the Siemens case.

"The Government Has Nothing Else to Say"

The government has put an end on rumor talk about Mr Liapis after the minister publicized evidence that proves that he had paid for his trip to Germany.

The evidence consisted of two plane tickets and three hotel receipts.

The two tickets, one for the minister and one for his son, had been issued by Olympic Airlines. They concern Athens-Berlin and Frankfurt-Athens trips that had taken place from 16-20 June, 2005.

The tickets bore receipts that prove that the minister had purchased them from a travel agency in Athens.

As for the hotel receipts, one was issued on 16 June, costing 181.10 euros and a second one covering the period from 17-19 June, cost 709.5 euros. The third receipt, issued on 20 June 2005 cost 704.10 euros. All three hotels had been paid by the ministers credit card. All three receipts had been paid by the ministers credit card.

At the same time, government spokesman Theodoros Roussopoulos declared Mr Liapis closed, stressing that his resignation or a government reshuffle is out of the question.

Meanwhile, Ta Nea newspaper has released today a document that shows that Mr Michalis Christoforakos secretary informed the Intercontinental Hotel about a five-room reservation during the above period. The handwritten word "minister" had been added below Mr Christoforakos name.

Mr Roussopoulos also stated that what is certain is that one million euros ended into PASOKs coffers, adding that Mr Liapis case is closed. As for the setting up of an inquiry committee, he commented he would not intervene into Justice. An inquiry committee would be set up after Justice concludes its work.

Papandreou Launches Attack

After PASOKs Political Council ended its meeting Mr Papandreou launched a fresh attack against the government.

He accused the PM of not resuming his responsibilities and of not revealing the truth. He described a serious political problem the fact that the minister, who was supervising important public bodies, was the host of the company which was receiving and providing commission to those bodies.

In parallel, he presented a number of initiatives that would shed light to the issue, demanding from the government to ask for compensations from Siemens. He also reported that the committee responsible to combat "dirty money" should get back into track.

Finally, he announced that he would ask from the Plenum in Parliament to proceed to the setting up of an inquiry committee.

At the same time, KKE (Communist Party of Greece) launched an attack against the ND and PASOK parties holding them responsible for the Siemens scandal and in parallel distracting the peoples attention from their serious problems. Sanitization will be achieved only when the anti-popular policy is abolished, the KKE concludes.

Barometre Opinion Poll

As per the Metron Analysis poll, Mr Simitis ousting closed the gap between the two big parties on the first week of the poll, while when the Tsoukatos case arose the gap increased to the benefit of the ND party.

In parallel, 23.1% believe that the ND party can combat corruption and 15.8% PASOK. Seven out of 10 citizens believe that the Siemens case will be covered and two out of 10 believe that the truth will be revealed.

Regarding voting intention SYRIZA (Coalition of the Radical Left) has receded. The ND party enjoys 30.5%, the KKE 7.7%, SYRIZA 12.6%, LAOS 4.7%, while 15.8% remain undecided.

Kostas Karamanlis is considered the best person as PM by 38.5%, followed by George Papandreou with 20.8%, while 21.5% are not satisfied with nobody. Aleka Papariga garners 4%, Alexis Tsipras 8.2% and George Karatzaferis 3.1%.

Translated by John Crystallidis

Related News:

Dramatic Developments

[02] 35yo Detained for Arson

By Athina Saloustrou

A 35-year-old woman held responsible for the fire that broke out in Papagou and Holargos on 27 August. Meanwhile, eyewitnesses identified the woman, who was also held responsible for the fire that broke out on Hymettus foothills in June. Meanwhile, the General Secretariat of Political Protection has issued a warning for high risk of fires in Chios, Samos, Ikaria, Hania, Rethymno, Lasithi and Messinia for Friday. In parallel, people are advised to abstain from outdoor works that might cause a fire.

Translated by John Crystallidis

[03] Heat Wave Expected

By Anna Kourti

Sources: National Meteorological Service

The temperature is expected to rise as of Monday, reaching 42 Celsius Wednesday. Local cloud and probably occasional rain is expected on the highlands from Saturday to Monday. The temperature is expected to range from 36-38 Celsius in the mainland. It will fine in Attica, with occasional cloud expected to develop as of the afternoon and 3-4 Beaufort winds blowing. The temperature will range from 24-38 Celsius. In Thessaloniki, cloud is expected to develop as of the afternoon, with the temperature ranging from 23-35 Celsius. Rain and occasional storms are also expected. The temperature will commence dropping as of late Wednesday afternoon.

Highest Temperatures Expected

Tuesday 8-7-08

Northern Greece: 38-40 ο C Western Greece: 39-41 ο C Thessaly-eastern mainland-eastern Peloponese: 38-40 ο C Eastern Aegean islands-Cyclades-Crete- Dodecanese: 35-37 ο C

Wednesday 9-7-08

Northern Greece: 37-39 ο C Western Greece: 37-39 ο C Thessaly-eastern mainland-eastern Peloponese: 40-42 ο C Eastern Aegean islands-Cyclades-Crete- Dodecanese: 37-39 ο C

Translated by John Crystallidis

[04] Changes in Railway Services

Sources: ΝΕΤ 105.8

According to TRENOSE announcement there will be changes in the services of the Hellenic Railways as of Sunday, July, 6. Specifically, changes in the Peloponnese line are the following:

Changes in the services of Intercity 11& 12 and trains 300, 301, 303, 304, 306 & 307 during all their routes.

Changes in the services of Intercity 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25 and trains 302, 305, 308&309 during the part of Kiato-Patras-Kiato route. All services to Pyrgos-Olympia/Katakolo Pyrgos are changed All services toAthens-Oinoi-Athens are changed Athens-Thesaloniki-Athens service 1521 is changed in all its route. All Thessaloniki-Ormenio-Thessaloniki services changed. For information passengers can call 1110 -24-hour line- or contact local stations.

Translated by Chrisanthi Sarantis

Read the story on other sources:

ΟΣΕ

[05] Research on Hemorrhagic Fever Begins

In cooperation with the Rural Development and Foodstuffs Ministry) KEEL (Hellenic Centre for Infectious Diseases Control) is commencing an epidemiological research on hemorrhagic fever. Spraying will take place in Rodopi, where the case had been detected, while vets will visit the area Monday. Farmers and stockbreeders are advised to be especially careful with their clothes and see that their bodies are covered. There is no danger for humans in beaches.

Translated by John Crystallidis

[06] Handed to Javier Solana

04 Ιουλ 2008 16:58:0

Sources: REUTERS

Iran responded on Friday to an incentives package offered by six world powers aimed at resolving a standoff over Tehrans disputed nuclear ambitions, the official IRNA news agency said. The agency quoted a senior source at Irans Supreme National Security Council as saying the response was handed to European Union foreign policy chief Javier Solana, but did not give any details about its content. The offer of economic and other incentives proposed by the six, the United States, China, Russia, Germany, Britain and France, was presented to Iran by Solana last month to try to persuade Iran to halt work they fear is aimed at making bombs.

[07] Violence and Inward Looking Policy in Zimbabwe

04 Ιουλ 2008 16:19:0

By Alexandros Moz

Sources: ANA-MPA, REUTERS

The EU called for new free elections in Zimbabwe, while Mugabe warned the African nations to cease criticizing him and ruled out talks with the opposition unless it accepts that he is the rightful head of state.

The European Union urged the Zimbabwean authorities to hold new "free and democratic" elections as soon as possible.

"The result of this vote must be the basis for a political settlement. This transition period must be as brief as possible," an EU statement said. "The aim of any solution must be the rapid holding of a new, free, democratic and transparent consultation of the Zimbabwean people," it said.

Thre

Threats to Neighbouring Countries

At the same time, Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe warned the neighbouring African nations to think twice before provoking his government, following the outcry triggered by his re-election at the run-off.

Earlier, Botswana had called the South African Development Community (SADC) to refuse to recognize Mugabes re-election at the helm of Zimbabwe.

He Denies Dialogue

Mugabe also said that he has no intention of holding talks with the opposition parties, which boycott the run-off, unless it drops its claim to power.

"I am the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe and that is the reality. Everybody has to accept that if they want dialogue," said he, while addressing his supporters who welcomed him at the Harare airport.

"There shall never be acceptance to us of anything else but the meaning and significance of the vote passed on the 27th of June."

Translated by Areti Christou

[08] Exchange of Fire in FYROM

Nine people have injured in clashes among Albanians in the Skoplje suburb of Radu&#353;a. According to unofficial information, among the injured was Democratic Union for Integration (DUI) MP Rafis Alitis son. The injured were transferred to a FYROM (Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia). The police have launched a manhunt; however they do not have any information as to what has sparked the incident.

Translated by John Crystallidis

[09] Metro Itinerary to Airport to Be Suspended

Metro service to Eleftherios Venizelos airport will be suspended as of autumn and last six months. During that period of time, Ethniki Amyna station will serve as a terminal

Metro service to Eleftherios Venizelos airport will be suspendedas of autumn and last six months. During that period of time, Ethniki Amyna station will serve as a terminal. When the service is restored, the Nomismatokopio station will be open, hosting one of the biggest park lots of the Metropolitan Railway.

Translated by John Crystallidis

[10] Israel-Hezbollah to Exchange Prisoners

By Nasos Bratsos

Sources: ANA-AFP

Israel received a report from the Lebanese Hezbollah militia that an Israeli airman reported missing in Lebanon since 1986 has been dead for more than 10 years, the Haaretz daily reported on Friday. In parallel, there is concern over the fate of four Iranian diplomats, who disappeared in Lebanon in 1982. Irans Embassy argues that they had been jailed in Israel, while the later believes that Christian militia murdered the diplomats. Israel and Hezbollah are expected to exchange prisoners within the next ten days.

Translated by John Crystallidis

[11] Tsipras Visits Cyprus

By Nasos Bratsos

Sources: NET 105.8, ANA

During his two-day visit to Cyprus, which is concluding today, SYN (Coalition of the Left) party leader Alexis Tsipras spoke about a joint stance among political parties and hopes for a positive solution of the Cyprus issue. Before concluding his visit, Mr Tsipras will meet with President of the Cyprus Republic Dimitris Christofias. Earlier, the SYN president had met with the President of the Cyprus Parliament Marios Karoyan, DISI President Nikos Anastasiadis, EDEK President Giannakis Omirou and EVROKO President Dimitris Sillouris. Mr Tsipras hoped that the Cyprus issue would be resolved in a positive way, describing the Turkish-Cypriots change of stance on one sovereignty and one nationality especially important. The Cypriot political party leaders described Mr Tsipras visit important.

Translated by John Crystallidis

[12] Ignorant of Danger & Consequences!

By Alexandros Moz

Sources: ANA-MPA

As per the publicized eurobarometre poll, 79% of Greeks are against the production of nuclear power, compared to 45% of EU citizens, with over seven out of 10 Europeans stating that they are ignorant of the nuclear power and refuse consequences.

Greeks [Cypriots (80% against) and Austrians (83% against)] are the most strongly opposed citizens in the EU.

It is noteworthy that about 1/3 of electricity produced in the EU is produced by nuclear plants.

Only 18% of the Greeks are in favour of energy deriving from nuclear plants, while 79% are against. The respective percentages in the EU are 44% and 45%. However, the citizens of countries that have nuclear power plants are in favour of nuclear power. Specifically Czechs and Lithuanians (64% in favor), Hungarians and Bulgarians (63% in favor), Swedes (62% in favor) and the Finish (61%) are among those who favor nuclear power.

Translated by John Crystallidis

[13] Biofuels to Blame for 75% Rise in Food Prices

By Athina Saloustrou

Biofuels have caused a 75 % increase in world food prices since 2002 according to World Bank new report says British newspaper "Guardian" in its todays issue. According to the newspaper, the report was completed last April but it was not released as it indicates that the rise in food prices is far greater than US Government claim that plant-derived fuels contribute less than 3% cent to food price hikes. The World Bank report confirms a 140% rise in food prices between 2002 and February 2008. The report concludes that rises in prices of oil and fertilizers are blamed for 15% rises in food prices while development of biofuels are blamed for 75%. The World Bank report says that the US and EU drive to use more biofuels has had the most severe impact on food prices. Its argument goes against President George W Bush, who has claimed that an increased food demand from India and China has led to the price spiralling. In parallel, large drought period in Australia has had an impact on food price rises. The report says: "Without the increase in biofuels, global wheat and maize stocks would not have declined appreciably and price increases due to other factors would have been moderate."

Translated by Chrisanthi Sarantis

[14] Alogoskoufis-Provopoulos Meeting

Economy and Finance Minister George Alogoskoufis held his first meeting with the new Governor of the Bank of Greece George Provopoulos. Two men will meet each month to discuss issues that concern the economy. After their meeting today, they made no statements.

Translated by John Crystallidis

[15] London Abhorrent Crime

By Athina Saloustrou

Two French research students, both 23, found stabbed to death, with some 250 horrific stab wounds to the head, neck and chest before being set alight. The murder occurred in a London suburb on Sunday evening when all residents in the area were watching Euro Championship final. The bodies of the two students were found in a ground-floor flat in New Cross, south-east London, on Sunday night. The biochemistry students had been studying at Imperial College, London. The motive of the murder is not known yet, police believe that the attack was a case of mistaken identity as they can not find anything in the young mens background to suggest they were involved in any criminality, that they had done anything wrong.

Translated by Chrisanthi Sarantis

[16] Works Conclude on "Theofilos"

Sources: ΝΕΤ 105.8-ΝΕΤ

Repair works on "Theofilos" are concluding today. The port authorities will decide when the ship will depart for Piraeus. Meanwhile, "Theofilos" passengers are continuing their voyage on "Lissos". At the same time, the port authorities will decide today whether the cars on board the ship will be unloaded on Chios or in Piraeus.

Meanwhile, car ferry "Taxiarchis" suffered mechanical failure and had to return to Piraeus for repair works free of load and with only one of its engines operating.

Translated by John Crystallidis

[17] Police Officers' Health Improving

By Athina Saloustrou

The health of two police officers, who were seriously injured by a hash producer at Malades, Heralion is improving. Theodoris Genitsaridis, who was injured in the head, has regained consciousness and will leave the intensive care unit in the coming days. Giorgos Poulianakis is undergoing kinesitherapy.

Translated by John Crystallidis

[18] High Risk of Fires Today

By Athina Saloustrou

Civil Protection general Secretariat has issued fire warning category 3- on Friday for Hios, Samos, Ikaria, Hania, Rethymno, Lasithi and Messinia. The Civil Protection General Secretariat has informed responsible sectors to be on increased alert and appealed to citizens to avoid outdoor activities which could spark a fire unintentionally.

Translated by Chrisanthi Sarantis

[19] Supreme Court Ruling

04 Ιουλ 2008 10:52:0

Sources: ΝΕΤ 105.8

Names and photographs of people sentenced or wanted (murderers, rapists, pedophiles, drug traffickers) could be released from now on provided that prosecutors permission has been given. A Supreme Court ruling has given the green light for the release of names and pictures of people convicted or wanted with the aim to protect society, the underage as well as vulnerable and weak groups of people. Furthermore, the Supreme Court ruling neither offends personality of the arrested nor violates his personal data rights.

Translated by Chrisanthi Sarantis

[20] Bomb Attack in Pakistan

By Vivian Papastefanou

city of Quetta, south-western Pakistan killing an eight-year-old girl and wounding 13 people

Sources: REUTERS

A bomb planted on a motorcycle exploded on Friday outside a bank in the Pakistani city of Quetta, south-western Pakistan killing an eight-year-old girl and wounding 13 people. A police officer announced that four police officers were among the wounded. "The girl was a beggar, she succumbed to her wounds during surgery in hospital," said city police chief Mohammad Akbar. Baluchistan is Pakistans poorest province and many of its people say they do not get a fair share of the profits from its resources. Nationalist rebels have waged a low-level insurgency for decades, attacking gas pipelines, infrastructure links and the security forces.

Translated by John Crystallidis

[21] Deliberations for a Government in Skopje Continue

VMRO-DPMNE mandatory PM Nicolas Gruevski is continuing deliberations with the two big Albanian parties to form a government. Mr Gruevskis deadline to table the composition of the new government and its programme to Parliament ends on 12/7. Then, the President of the Parliament will have to convene the plenum within 15 days for a confidence vote to the new government. Out of the 120 seats, the leading VMRO-DPMNE party has 63 seats; thus it can form a self-contained government. However, Mr Gruevski favours the participation of an Albanian party in the government to achieve balance among various nationalities living in FYROM.

Translated by John Crystallidis

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