Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English, 96-11-06

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From: The Greek Press & Information Office, Ottawa Canada <[email protected]>

ATHENS NEWS AGENCY BULLETIN (No 1033), November 6, 1996

Greek Press & Information Office
Ottawa, Canada
E-Mail Address: [email protected]

CONTENTS

[01] Gov't promises swift, in-depth probe over missile boat's sinking

[02] Opposition reactions

[03] Customs Code draft bill amended

[04] Simitis chairs meeting on Gov't economic policy, '97 budget

[05] Apostolakis to attend last phase of military exercise

[06] Rozakis concludes high-level contacts in Cyprus

[07] Kyprianou continues talks with Greek leadership

[08] KKE meeting

[09] Reppas: Latest Turkish violation of Cyprus' sovereignty again unveils Ankara's intentions

[10] Denial of effort to give sanctuary to Mount Athos

[11] Turkish warplanes violating Athens FIR intercepted on 15 occasions

[12] Turkish press reports call latest Attila exercise 'a response to Greece'

[13] Mitsotakis expresses hope for increased Clinton administration support on Greek national issues

[14] Papoutsis, Roubatis strongly criticize report presented to EU Commission

[15] New secretary general of secretariat for expatriate Greeks assumes post

[16] Koutchma to officially visit Greece early next week

[17] Simitis, Papoutsis meeting on Friday

[18] ND political council to convene on Thursday, three former premiers, Souflias to participate

[19] PASOK political secretariat discusses Gov't economic policy

[20] Venizelos discusses bilateral, European cultural issues with French counterpart

[21] Petsalnikos concludes tour of Australia with visit to Perth

[22] National Theater to participate in events marking Greek community's centennial in Melbourne

[23] EOT office to open in Belgrade

[24] Greek-Jordanian maritime accord signed

[25] Shipping exchange inflows increase in first six months of '96

[26] Increase in number of Finnish tourists to Greece recorded

[27] Nebiolo to head IAAF delegation's visit to Athens

[28] Athens 2004 Olympics candidacy

[01] Gov't promises swift, in-depth probe over missile boat's sinking

Athens, 06/11/1996 (ANA)

Four crew members of the warship were still reported missing at presstime yesterday.

Mr. Tsohatzopoulos warned that "subjective assessments" fail to contribute towards the finding of the truth, and adversely affect efforts being made by relevant bodies.

In statements, he said the navy will do all in its power to have the case resolved in the shortest period of time possible and have responsibilities assigned wherever they exist.

Mr. Tsohatzopoulos said the armed forces will continue the military exercise "Parmenion", which is part of national defense policy, and will continue to perform their duty with determination.

Asked whether there was any other ship participating in the exercise in the region near the accident - between the cities of Vathi and Karlovasi on Samos - Mr. Tsohatzopoulos said there was another missile boat a nautical mile away from the "Kostakos", which was on a scheduled course and location as part of the exercise.

Government spokesman Dimitris Reppas said earlier that the government wished that "ample light to be shed at the soonest" on the circumstances surrounding the accident.

If any persons were found to be responsible for the incident, he added, they would be punished in exemplary fashion, "because accidents like this are not only terrible but also unacceptable."

In a related development, two specially equipped Hellenic Navy vessels arrived yesterday in the sea region where the vessel sank. In addition, search efforts for the missing sailors continued.

Meanwhile, a special navy committee chaired by a high-ranking officer is investigating the cause of the accident, as is a permanent admiralty court.

According to Hellenic Navy General Staff sources, the missile boat was about half a nautical mile from Samos and taking part in the Parmenion military exercise when it was struck by the ferry boat "Samaina."

The same sources said that the ferry boat, sailing from Vathi to Karlovasi, suddenly changed course to port and hit the vessel in its aft starboard section.

The Kostakos had a crew of 38. No injuries were reported aboard the ferry boat.

Replying to questions, Mr. Reppas said that all necessary preparations had been made before the Parmenion exercise began to inform "all those who should know about the exercise so that they could take the necessary steps."

"The frequency of accidents in Greek waters, resulting in the loss of life, does not leave the government indifferent and we intend to take measures to improve rules of navigation," Mr. Reppas said, adding however, that "rules by themselves are not effective if they are not respected by individuals."

Meanwhile, the public prosecutor of Samos yesterday initiated proceedings against Matthaios Pnevmatikakis and Antonis Tzouanou, the captain and first mate, respectively, of the "Samaina", for causing a shipwreck through negligence.

Both men were later released pending trial.

The navy committee investigating the cause of the accident was due to arrive in Samos yesterday afternoon on a Hellenic Air Force C-130 transport plane.

As part of its investigation, the committee will inspect the ferry boat which sank the Kostakos.

The depth of the water in the area where the Kostakos was struck is 100 meters and the distance from shore about 500 meters.

It has not yet been established at what point in time it was discovered that four crew members were missing, when the crew was assembling on deck or when they were boarding lifeboats.

According to initial estimates, however, the stern section of the vessels had already sank when the crew were still assembling.

[02] Opposition reactions

Athens, 06/11/1996 (ANA)

Mr. Papadongonas referred to what he called the prime minister's "pompous statement" that those responsible will be punished, adding that it does not absolve him and relevant ministers from their own responsibilities.

Communist Party of Greece (KKE) Secretary General Aleka Papariga, on her part, asked the merchant marine and national defense ministries to what extent commercial ships in the area knew the warship's scheduled course in order to be aware of the danger they could be in.

Ms Papariga stressed that there are responsibilities for the accident "either on one, or on the other side", while she expressed her belief that there would have been many more casualties if it had been the passenger ship that had sunk instead of the war ship.

Referring to the accident, Coalition of the Left and Progress leader Nikos Constantopoulos said there was a great deal of offhandedness in planning the exercise, in which the Kostakos participated, and in the coordination of the various ministries.

Mr. Constantopoulos said the probe on responsibilities being assumed should be swift and comprehensive, adding that he has requested a detailed briefing by Mr. Tsohatzopoulos on the tragic event.

The Social Democratic Movement (DHKKI) issued an announcement urging the government to "proceed immediately with an investigation in order to ascertain the conditions surrounding the accident."

[03] Customs Code draft bill amended

Athens, 06/11/1996 (ANA)

Mr. Drys amended clauses concerning the collection of dues from the fake withdrawal of used cars during the period 1990-93, so that private car owners can now pay without incurring penalties, fines and prosecutions, while car dealers and customs officials who have broken the law will have to face criminal proceedings.

Mr. Drys also amended the provision regarding debts of football companies, reducing the number of monthly interest-free installments from 90 to 48.

According to a list presented to the parliamentary committee, false withdrawals of used cars have cost the state 39 billion drachmas in lost income, while lost taxes on pleasure boats amount to 4.5 billion drachmas.

[04] Simitis chairs meeting on Gov't economic policy, '97 budget

Athens, 06/11/1996 (ANA)

The three-hour meeting was held with the participation of National Economy Minister Yiannos Papantoniou, National Economy Undersecretaries Nikos Christodou-lakis, George Drys and Christos Pachtas as well as Bank of Greece Governor Lukas Papadimos.

At the meeting, Mr. Papantoniou presented his ministry's final draft proposal regarding the 1997 budget.

He also presented a proposal regarding this year's budget and a public investment plan.

[05] Apostolakis to attend last phase of military exercise

Athens, 06/11/1996 (ANA)

The exercise has been held in the region since Oct. 31.

[06] Rozakis concludes high-level contacts in Cyprus

Nicosia, 06/11/1996 (ANA - G. Leonidas)

Speaking to reporters at the end of talks, Mr. Michaelides said they examined many sectors in depth, adding that "we hope and expect intense consultations on the Cyprus issue to start soon."

Stressing that a great deal of ground has been covered in connection with Cyprus' accession course, Mr. Michaelides went on to say that "just as in the past, future success is based on very close co-operation between Greece and Cyprus."

Mr. Rozakis referred to the possibility of Greece's contribution to issues concerning support for Cyprus during the run-up to accession.

Asked to comment on the initiative by the United States, Mr. Rozakis said so far, Athens has no specific information from an authoritative source on the kind of initiative Washington plans to undertake after the US presidential elections.

Referring to the same issue, Mr. Michaelides said what the Cypriot side is aware of are official statements by US President Bill Clinton on the assumption of substantive initiatives and actions for a solution to the Cyprus issue.

According to press reports, common strategy moves set out by Athens and Nicosia include issues concerning disinvolvement and military dialogue, as well as counter-proposals on confidence-building measures in the event they are raised in intercommunal talks.

The reports said long-term planning includes a strong diplomatic campaign based on seeking a wide agreement framework with backing by the US and the European Union on the accession of Cyprus to the EU, and an end to Turkish aggression in the Aegean.

In exchange for Turkey's compliance, Greece will offer its consent for a further rapprochement between Turkey and the EU.

Nicosia and Athens agree that Turkey's stance is the key to lifting the deadlock and, more specifically, to what extent the disposition on a positive approach formulated by the diplomatic establishment in Ankara will be finalized as its official policy without backtracking.

Mr. Rozakis is due back in Athens this morning.

Earlier yesterday, Mr. Rozakis had a series of contacts in Nicosia, including a meeting with the Archbishop of Cyprus' Autocephalus Church, Chrysostomos.

Speaking to the press after his meeting with Chrysostomos, Mr. Rozakis said the Church's positions should be taken into consideration.

He also met with General Attorney Alecos Markides, with whom he discussed the legal aspect of an initiation of dialogue regarding a Cyprus-EU accession.

[07] Kyprianou continues talks with Greek leadership

Athens, 06/11/1996 (ANA)

He made the statement after his successive meetings yesterday with the leaders of the main opposition New Democracy, Miltiades Evert, Coalition of the Left and Progress party, Nikos Constantopoulos, and Social Democratic Movement (DHKKI), Dimitris Tsovolas.

Mr. Kyprianou referred to efforts which he said both the Greek Parliament and the Cyprus House of Representatives should make in the direction of briefing parliaments in countries which can pressure Turkey to take "logical" steps regarding settlement to the Cyprus problem.

Sources said Mr. Kyprianou and Mr. Evert agreed that the prospect for a Cyprus-EU accession is the most important prospect for the island and that negotiations for the island's accession to the Union will contribute to the finding and consolidation of a solution to the Cyprus issue.

After his meeting with Mr. Kyprianou, Mr. Tsovolas said the Parliaments and political leadership of both countries must work for "a just and viable solution to the Cyprus problem.

After his meeting with Mr. Kyprianou, Mr. Constantopoulos said the Greek government should work towards coordination of action between Athens and Nicosia as well as a common policy to deal with initiatives taking place at present regarding the Cyprus problem.

[08] KKE meeting

Athens, 06/11/1996 (ANA)

"I am concerned because the indications from talks I had are that they are considering a solution to the Cyprus issue which will be based approximately on faits accomplis achieved by the invasion, with some small differences and which is very close to Turkish positions," he said. Mr. Kyprianou said nobody exerts pressure on Turkey and the European Parliament's recent resolution "constituted an object of polemics both by the US, and indeed before the elections, and certain European Union governments."

On her part, Ms Papariga expressed the view that the initiative by the US comprises the Aegean, the Cyprus issue and the Balkans as a "package" and "comes to consolidate the supremacy of the US in the Aegean."

[09] Reppas: Latest Turkish violation of Cyprus' sovereignty again unveils Ankara's intentions

Athens, 06/11/1996 (ANA)

"There is no honest stance on the other side for finding a solution to the Cyprus problem, since Ankara persists in its tactic of creating tension," Mr. Reppas added.

[10] Denial of effort to give sanctuary to Mount Athos

Belgrade, 06/11/1996 (ANA - M. Mouratidis)

"I have never visited Agion Oros (Mount Athos) and no one has assigned me to such a mission," the Bosnian Serb minister told the "Flash" news agency in Banja Luka.

[11] Turkish warplanes violating Athens FIR intercepted on 15 occasions

Athens, 06/11/1996 (ANA)

Greek fighters intercepted the intruders in all instances, some of which developed into close engagements.

Referring to the incidents, Defense Minister Akis Tsohatzopoulos described them as "common", in view of an on-going Turkish military exercise.

[12] Turkish press reports call latest Attila exercise 'a response to Greece'

Athens, 06/11/1996 (ANA)

Live ammunition is to be used in the exercise, which seems to be a reply to last month's "Nikiforos" exercise by the forces of the Cyprus Republic.

According to reports, Turkish Cypriot units are also due to participate in the exercises, while Turkish air force warplanes are scheduled to fly over the divided island on Nov. 15, the anniversary of the declaration of the Turkish Cypriot pseudo-state.

Only Turkey recognizes the pseudo-state.

Meanwhile, Turkish F-16s are participating in another military exercise, "Determination '96", taking place in the occupied part of Cyprus and in international waters of the eastern Mediterranean.

[13] Mitsotakis expresses hope for increased Clinton administration support on Greek national issues

Athens, 06/11/1996 (ANA)

American voters went to the polls yesterday to vote for a new US president.

Mr. Mitsotakis made the statement to the press in view of yesterday's elections and after a meeting with Archbishop Iakovos.

Noting that the Cyprus problem has matured, Mr. Mitsotakis said that Washington could play a "decisive" role in efforts to find a solution.

Turning to his meeting with Iakovos, Mr. Mitsotakis described it as "useful," adding that it focused on the great problems facing Hellenism, Greek foreign policy issues and Greek-American relations.

Iakovos also wished that the new government in Washington "based on the experience of the past four years will be willing to review its position and attitude towards our great national issues, which also constitute part of European national issues."

[14] Papoutsis, Roubatis strongly criticize report presented to EU Commission

Brussels, 06/11/1996 (ANA - F. Stangos)

The report, entitled "Half-finished Peace", was presented in the European Commission's press room by External Affairs Commissioner Hans van den Broek, in the presence of ICB chairman and Christian Democrat Deputy Leo Tindemans as well as former European Parliament president Simon Weil. The commissioner said that "in general terms, he endorsed the analysis of the situation and the recommendations of the committee."

Asked to what extent the references to Greece's negative record as regards minorities, and the use of the name "Macedonia," instead of the UN-accepted term Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM) represented the European Commission, Mr. van den Broek declined to reply directly, but expressed the hope that "in our next interview we shall be able to use an international name that will also be acceptable by Greece, and not the term FYROM, which is something artificial".

He went on to refer to the recent improvement in Greek - Albanian relations, "which are also affected by the existence of minorities."

After the presentation, during which ICB chairman Tindemans stressed that the committee was not dependent on either the UN, the EU, or any of its member-states, Mr. Papoutsis made an official statement stressing that the Commission had not even been briefed on the findings of the committee, and advised greater care and responsibility in the handling of such issues, "particularly at a time when, at least in the area of the Balkans, there is an on-going effort by all sides to find solutions that establish peace, security and co-operation. "It is not possible for various institutes or private initiatives, even if they are directed by prominent EU personalities, to differentiate, in certain points, international treaties, which offer, if you like, the only possibility for finding solutions in the area of the Balkans," he said.

In a question to the European Commission, Mr. Roubatis asked whether it endorsed the findings of the committee, "as the presence of Mr. van den Broek seems to indicate," and if this was not the case, what Commission President Jacques Santer intended to do so that there might be "immediate and public clarifications."

At the same time, in a letter to Mr. Tindemans, Mr. Roubatis drew attention to historical inaccuracies contained in the report, stressing that during a critical period for the Balkans, "it is dangerous to publish judgments and assessments based on an inadequate knowledge of the history of the area," as it might lead to an increase in tension.

[15] New secretary general of secretariat for expatriate Greeks assumes post

Athens, 06/11/1996 (ANA)

[16] Koutchma to officially visit Greece early next week

Kiev, 06/11/1996 (ANA/AFP)

The main goal of the visit is "the deepening of political dialogue and expansion of economic collaboration," a foreign ministry announcement said.

In addition, a friendship and collaboration treaty as well as other bilateral agreements are expected to be signed during the visit.

Mr. Koutchma is scheduled to meet President of the Republic Kostis Stephanopoulos, Prime Minister Costas Simitis and Parliament President Apostolos Kaklamanis.

Commercial exchanges between the Ukraine and Greece have risen from US$113.3 million in 1995 to $116.2 million for the first eight months of 1996.

The Ukraine could increase its exports of metallurgical and chemical products to Greece and collaborate in the sectors of maritime transport as well as construction and repair of merchant ships, a Ukrainian source underlined.

According to reports, roughly 100,000 people of Greek descent currently live in the former Soviet republic.

[17] Simitis, Papoutsis meeting on Friday

Brussels, 06/11/1996 (ANA - M. Spinthourakis)

Issues expected to be discussed at the meeting include EU matters such as the course of the Intergovernmental Conference (IGC) and the economic and monetary union (EMU), relations between the EU and eastern and central European countries as well as with Balkan states, some of which Mr. Papoutsis has visited recently.

[18] ND political council to convene on Thursday, three former premiers, Souflias to participate

Athens, 06/11/1996 (ANA)

The decision was taken in light of a letter by 22 deputies to the party's prominent members, which called for high-ranking party members to agree on procedures for the congress.

It was, at any rate, decided during the meeting that procedures towards the congress would take place according to the party charter, and would not involve the holding of internal elections, as called for by dissenters.

According to sources, it was again proposed to deputy party leader Ioannis Varvitsiotis to head the congress' organizational committee, however, he declined.

In addition, some of Mr. Evert's close aides were reported to be recommending the holding of the congress as early as April.

On his part, Mr. Souflias yesterday continued his contacts, with meetings with former premiers George Rallis and Tzannis Tzannetakis.

Meanwhile, ND honorary president and another former premier, Constantine Mitsotakis, was reported to have told party deputies that he was "resolved to undertake an initiative in order to give a final end to the crisis."

[19] PASOK political secretariat discusses Gov't economic policy

Athens, 06/11/1996 (ANA)

Reliable sources said that all members of the political secretariat expressed their views on the government's economic policy.

Central committee Secretary Costas Skandalidis said the joint meeting between the party's central committee and Parliamentary group is to be held before the 1997 budget is tabled.

Within the framework of a party reorganization, PASOK's prefectural councils throughout the country are to be convened between Nov. 9-11, in order to discuss the central committee's latest decision and steps for party reorganization.

Regional councils are to be convened on Nov. 23, 24, while political events will be held on the subject of the economy and party restructuring.

Mr. Skandalidis said the party's executive committee will begin meetings in 10 days, at the rate of two meetings daily, with the participation of PASOK deputies from every region.

[20] Venizelos discusses bilateral, European cultural issues with French counterpart

Paris, 06/11/1996 (ANA- Y. Zitouniati)

Mr. Venizelos is expected to brief Mr. Doust-Blanci on his initiative for a meeting of EU culture ministers to discuss the principle of culture equality between member-states for inclusion in the new Union Treaty which is expected to emerge from discuss ions falling in the framework of the Intergovernmental Conference.

Mr. Venizelos proposed that an unofficial meeting of EU culture ministers be held in Thessaloniki on Jan. 29-30 to coincide with the inauguration of events to mark the city as Europe's Cultural Capital for 1997.

The two ministers are also expected to discuss a French proposal for closer regional co-operation between the five Mediterranean countries of the EU with a Greco-Latin culture, with the aim of reinforcing the European cultural identity.

The five culture ministers of the European South are expected to meet in Paris in December, following an invitation of the French minister.

While in Paris, Mr. Venizelos will visit the Delacroix Museum and pay tribute in a special ceremony to French and European Philellenes.

A show featuring the works of Delacroix and other European painters who had been inspired by Greece's independence struggle against Ottoman rule, entitled "Greece in Rebellion (1815-1848)" is currently exhibited at the museum.

During his visit to the French capital, the culture minister will also visit the Institut de France.

[21] Petsalnikos concludes tour of Australia with visit to Perth

Perth, 06/11/1996 (ANA-S.Theologidis)

Mr. Petsalnikos had a working breakfast with State Minister of Family Planning and Equality between the Sexes, Cherry Edwards.

He also attended a lunch which former minister and Labor Party deputy Bill Thomas gave in his honor. During his 20-hour visit to Perth, Mr. Petsalnikos also addressed a gathering of Greek-Australians and visited Wanneroo, a model tourist resort of 400,000 residents. During a series of meetings with Perth deputies and city authorities representatives, Mr. Petsalnikos noted the increasing importance of Greece as a peace and economic development factor in the Balkan region.

After his visit, Mr. Petsalnikos flew to Sydney. The Greek delegation is expected to return to Athens today.

[22] National Theater to participate in events marking Greek community's centennial in Melbourne

Melbourne, 06/11/1996 (ANA - S. Hatzimanolis)

Mr. Fountas said Mr. Dalaras, together with his band, will give a concert in Melbourne, the National Theater will stage an ancient tragedy, while Mr. Angelopoulos will give lectures on the sidelines of the screenings of his films.

[23] EOT office to open in Belgrade

Belgrade, 06/11/1996 (ANA - M. Mouratidis)

Mr. Stefanidis said the office will operate through the Greek embassy at first and will provide information on Greek tourism.

In Thessaloniki, Yugoslav tourist agents brought up the subject of tourist visas to Greece and delays in their issuance to Yugoslav citizens by the Greek embassy in Belgrade, due to implementation of Schengen Accord procedures. Mr. Stefanidis said Development Minister Vasso Papandreou had been informed of the problem and has promised to act during the next few days in order to provide a solution.

In addition, agreements were signed in Thessaloniki between tourist agents for arrival of some 3,000 Greek tourists to ski resorts in Serbia over the Christmas break. An announcement issued from Belgrade said a Serbian Tourist Organization office is to open in Athens in the near future.

[24] Greek-Jordanian maritime accord signed

Athens, 06/11/1996 (ANA)

The agreement provides for the unrestricted access of the two countries' vessels to the ports of each nation as well as provision of all possible facilities to the vessels while in port.

In addition, it provides for facilities for the crews of the two countries' merchant vessels, reductions in port fees for environment-friendly tankers, assistance to vessels of either country in distress while in the territorial waters of either Greece or Jordan. The accord also establishes most-favored-nation status on the basis of reciprocity with respect to harbor charges and dues concerning the loading and unloading of cargo as well as the embarkation and disembarkation of passengers.

[25] Shipping exchange inflows increase in first six months of '96

Athens, 06/11/1996 (ANA)

[26] Increase in number of Finnish tourists to Greece recorded

Helsinki, 06/11/1996 (ANA - V. Patouhas)

According to data released by Finland's Union of Tourism Enterprises, the total number of arrivals from Finland in Greece in 1996 will reach 150,000 by the end of the year, while an increase of 18.8 per cent was noted during the summer season over the same period last year.

Rhodes is the most popular Greek destination for Finnish nationals, showing an increase in arrivals of 30 per cent, and followed by Crete and Kos. In a related development, the Greek Tourism Organization (EOT) is sponsoring a three-week-long promotional campaign featuring traditional Greek food, dances and live music until Nov. 24 aboard Viking Line passenger ferries, which sail between Finland and Sweden.

[27] Nebiolo to head IAAF delegation's visit to Athens

Athens, 06/11/1996 (ANA)

During the three-day visit, Mr. Nebiolo will meet with President of the Republic Kostis Stephanopoulos, Sports Under-secretary Andreas Fouras, Athens Mayor Dimitris Avramopoulos and officials of the Greek Olympic Committee as well as the Greek Athletics Federation (SEGAS), which last month precipitated a mini-crisis by withdrawing from the committee organizing the championship, due to differences with the sports under-secretariat.

Mr. Nebiolo will give an official press conference at noon on Friday, at a central Athens hotel.

[28] Athens 2004 Olympics candidacy

Athens, 06/11/1996 (ANA)

He added that Athens ought to make a corrective addition in the file of its candidacy, regarding co-operation between first and second tier local government, in order to make it clear that there will not be dysfunctional symptoms during the Olympics, similar to those observed during the Atlanta Games last summer.

It also became known that if Athens succeeds in its bid, it will receive $840 million from the IOC in television rights.

End of English language section.

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