Mr. Stefanopoulos greeted the efforts of Croatia to "turn the page that has recorded on it the unpleasant events of the previous decade, and to turn to the future".

Furthermore, he underlined that "for the international community, the need to bring to justice all those accused of committing war crimes, is imperative".

The "Knossos Palace" arrived at the Heracleon port at 06:10, but there was a problem with the platform for disembarking, and the passengers were forced to use an airport staircase brought to the port, thus making the whole procedure last several hours, c ausing great discomfort to the passengers. The problems were caused due to overheating to the ship's circuitry during the fire that was put out earlier

In statements following his meeting with Special Coordinator for the US State Department on the Cyprus issue, Ambassador Thomas Weston, Mr. Papandreou stressed: "I have proven I fully respect the institutions. I have supported, still support and will con tinue to support the decisions of the Prime Minister and President of PASOK Costas Simitis."

He also added that he had not authorized anyone to express his views for him, which, he said, "I express myself", while he asked for "the scenarios to end because we have a crucial battle ahead, which we will win".

In his statements, Mr. Mesic, who is carrying out a formal visit to our country, thanked Greece for its support in Croatia's efforts for European integration.

He also stated that he was impressed with Greek history, the notion of the Olympic Truce and its revival.

On his side, Mr. Papandreou said that Croatia's European prospects are important, and he characterized the EU as one of the greatest "constructs of peace".

Mr. Simitis suggested the establishment of an inter-Balkan cooperation organization and Mr. Mesic pointed out that he is interested in the cooperation with countries of former Yugoslavia, while he observed that something, which has ended twice in blood, is impossible to be revived.

The Croatian President referred to the progress made by his country regarding its adjustment with the European Union standards and the reforms in legislation and the economic sector. Mr. Simitis praised the progress made by Croatia and assured that Greec e will continue to back these efforts.

The two leaders also referred to the importance of the Ionian Road (it will link western Greece with the Adriatic and western Europe). Mr. Simitis stated that the part of the Ionian Road, which is on Greek territory, is going to be completed by 2007.

The following months will be crucial because Cyprus will become formally a member of the EU and Turkey's position on the Cyprus problem and a number of other issues will be evaluated, pointed out Mr. Papandreou. He added that Greece repeatedly has stated

that it backs Turkey's European prospect, stressing that lingering problems can be faced within the European framework.

On his part, Mr. Weston referred to the importance of regular contacts, stressing that this way cooperation for the solution of the Cyprus problem and Turkey's European course is being strengthened.

Of the stocks trading today, the overwhelming majority of 220 had gains, while 95 recorded losses and the value of 76 stocks remained unchanged.

Mr. Protopapas stated that the scenarios in question are unacceptable and that the statement made by Mr. Papandreou puts an end to them He also observed that there was never a problem between the Prime Minister and Mr. Papandreou and that their relations

were always excellent and very close.

Responding to relevant questions, Mr. Protopapas stated that the position of Mr. Papandreou was always clear, adding that he does his job systematically, defends the country's interests around the world and his contribution to the activities of the gover ning Socialist Party of PASOK is very important.