Commenting on the relevant statements made by the FYROM Foreign Minister, Mr. Beglitis stated characteristically that he cannot understand why he made those statements and added that the talks on the issue of the name continue within the framework of the

United Nations.

Mr. Beglitis added that with the visible developments in the domestic procedures and the completion of the election procedure on September 15, we will be in a position to move ahead with the effort to find a mutually acceptable solution.

The statement is positive as it reflects reality namely, that the negotiations were completed without progress because of the Turkish Cypriot side, while it is recorded that the stance of the Turkish Cypriot side is not constructive in the development o f the talks, said Mr. Beglitis.

Mr. Beglitis also stated that the role of Mr. Kofi Annan, through his representative Alvaro de Soto, is positive adding that the Greek side expects that this role will be further strengthened in the talks that will continue shortly. Mr. Beglitis conclude d that the UN intervention and contribution to the efforts to find a solution in Cyprus will be positive.

However, he pointed out that the communication between Greece and Turkey, observed at all levels, is based on political principles and Greece believes that they cannot be affected by such developments.

Mr. Beglitis wished for a quick solution to the crisis.

Later in the afternoon, he will inaugurate two new halls in the Yugoslav Federal Parliament Building which were built with US$800.000 donated by the Greek Parliament. The halls will be named Democracy and State.

Mr. Kaklamanis will meet in Belgrade with Federal Republic of Yugoslavia President Voiclav Kostunica and Federal government Prime Minister Dragisa Pesic.

According to information, the Prime Minister pointed out that the investigation is in progress and stressed that the gathering of evidence is necessary in order to have positive results and break up the "17 November" terrorist organization. He said that careful steps are being made, adding that the issue will have absolute publicity.

From his side, Mr. Chrisochoidis pointed out that the Greek authorities will break up the terrorist organization and will rid the country of terrorism.

Of the stocks trading today, the overwhelming majority of 245 recorded losses and 62 had gains, while the value of 66 stocks remained unchanged.

Similar is the picture for those who were asked about their expectations in 2002 as 43% of them expect further worsening of their economic situation and only 14% look forward to an improvement.

Inflation is regarded as a major problem for the family income by the majority of the Greek households in spite of the fact that the cost-of-living index has dropped considerably compared to the recent future.

Meanwhile, in a written statement issued by the Greek Police Headquarters it is mentioned that the search continues in the "17 November" hideouts.

In the police statement it is also underlined that the investigation brought to light a large number of findings and it is necessary to be examined in a systematic and thorough way. The statement stresses that briefings will be made on the outcome of the

investigation whenever it is feasible and if the course of the investigation is not affected.

Early in the afternoon, Xiros' priest father, and his Spanish girlfriend were allowed to visit him for a few minutes and they were briefed on the state of his health.

Also, according to information, an unidentified man was arrested last night when he attempted to enter Evangelismos Hospital without being noticed. As it was made known, the man was questioned by police.

The prosecutor accepted the request made by Passaris' lawyer to have the indictment translated into Greek and postponed the trial to have the time to study it.

The security measures were very tough in the courthouse and Passaris appeared chained and guarded by 10 police officers. Also, his lawyer Julia Iliescu requested that her client be transferred to another jail because the treatment he has in Djilava Priso n is inhumane and she cannot visit him when she wants to.

Passaris also asked for another interpreter because he was not satisfied with the one he had but his request was rejected.

Macedonian Press Agency: News in English Directory - Previous Article - Next Article