Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English, 01-09-28

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From: The Athens News Agency at <http://www.ana.gr/>

CONTENTS

[01] Defense minister presents Armed Forces revised strategy for 2001-2015

[02] Greek president concludes official visit to Spain

[03] Greek FM to visit Berlin on Monday and hold talks with German counterpart

[04] Justice minister calls "suffocating" EUs anti-terrorist regulations timetable

[05] Fontaine: Political problem cannot block Cyprus EU entry

[06] Constantine Karamanlis Institute focuses on Greece in Europe

[07] Europarliament president meets Olympiad and party officials

[08] Gov't on reshuffle prospects after PASOK congress

[09] Greek commissioner reacts to Berlusconi's statement

[10] Defense minister to visit Cyprus

[11] Greece donates one million dollars to UN for Afghan refugee relief

[12] Powell and Turkish FM discuss regions of common interest

[13] Reactions in Greek Parliament to gunman attack in Switzerland

[14] Gov't to spend Dr 150 bln on boosting new economy

[15] Drys: Terror strikes may mean changes to 2002 budget

[16] Europarliament president pleased at Greeks' degree of familiarization with euro

[17] Information technology trade fair in Thessaloniki Oct 11-14

[18] BSECP discusses SMEs and political and economic environment

[19] PM outlines plans to fight unemployment through education

[20] Trade group says consumption down after terrorist attacks in US

[21] Athens airport unveils flight figures, comments on security

[22] EU Consumer Ministers Council discusses fiscal services

[23] Stocks rise in edgy trade

[24] Discussions between IOC and Athens 2004 committee officials

[25] IOC commission chairman meets with Greek culture minister

[26] Clashes break out at Athens anti-war rally

[27] PM cites efforts to reduce state bureaucracy

[28] Greek Orthodox Archdiocese in US website for donations to aid victims

[29] Nine convicted for Dystos maritime accident

[30] Renovation of all ISAP stations by 2003

[31] Clerides says "some priority" should be given to the solution of the Cyprus question

[01] Defense minister presents Armed Forces revised strategy for 2001-2015

Athens, 28/09/2001 (ANA)

Defense Minister Akis Tsohatzopoulos, during the presentation of the defense strategy revision, stressed that "by December the change of the structure of forces will be complete, giving emphasis on greater flexibility and great fire power."

He added that the arms procurement program has taken into account these changes that include upgrading the military's capabilities in new technologies.

The basic threat to Greece's security continues to stem from Turkey and the instability in the Balkans, while the idea of asymmetrical threats stemming from terrorism are added to the list along with organized crime, cyber war and illegal immigration, Tsohatzopoulos said.

Greece's armed forces should be in a position to effectively deal with problems on both levels, the conventional (Balkans-Turkey) and the non-conventional, he added.

The defense minister also said that he proposed to the Government Council for Foreign Affairs and Defense (KYSEA) to establish a crisis-handling center, which will be headed by the prime minister, Tsohatzopoulos said.

"Greece insists in maintaining a military of two levels, that is of conscripts apart from professionals. Beginning Jan. 1, 2001 there will be a reduction in the conscripts' tour-of-duty by two months in every branch of the military, while by the end of 2003 the tour-of-duty will be reduced to 12 months in the army, 14 months in the air force and 16 months in the navy," he said.

"In order to achieve savings in the Armed Forces it is necessary to connect spending for the Armed Forces to the economic capabilities of the country. Along with the reduction of the operational cost of the Armed Forces - which will not exceed 4 per cent of the GDP - new criteria will be introduced for the logistics of the arms procurement," he said.

He added that "the anti-aircraft defense systems of armed forces' branches, their logistical support, healthcare support, training and systems of management and controls will be unified".

Tsohatzopoulos stressed that the emphasis on all levels will be placed on human resources, calling it "our basic capital".

He called the establishment of the University of the Armed Forces imperative, saying that the programs for the professional orientation of conscripts will be upgraded.

The defense minister noted that Greece is lagging in the research and development areas, adding that the Armed Forces will support the Greek arms industry, both state and private, while the universities and the research centers of the country will become "equivalent interlocutors and partners".

He concluded by saying that the army is setting up a special sub-branch for nuclear, biological and chemical defense.

[02] Greek president concludes official visit to Spain

Athens, 28/09/2001 (ANA)

His arrival in Spain reciprocated a visit to Greece by Juan Carlos I and Queen Sophia in May 1998.

One of the events related to Stephanopoulos' visit was the organization of a business symposium in the Spanish capital on Wednesday evening with the participation of numerous Spanish and Greek entrepreneurs. Greek Deputy National Economy Minister Yiannis Zafeiropoulos also attended the symposium.

The latter pointed to Spain's multi-faceted ties with Latin America along with Greek business inroads in the Balkans and Black Sea region as "common ground" for increasing Greek-Spanish economic relations within the framework of Euro-Mediterranean cooperation.

[03] Greek FM to visit Berlin on Monday and hold talks with German counterpart

Athens, 28/09/2001 (ANA)

The same sources said that Papandreou and Fischer will discuss issues relating to "security", without providing any further details.

German diplomacy, however, has been focusing on terrorism issues, the Middle East problem and developments in the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM), in light Germany's undertaking the command of NATO's mission "Amber Fox".

[04] Justice minister calls "suffocating" EUs anti-terrorist regulations timetable

BRUSSELS, 28/09/2001 (ANA - G. Zitouniati)

"This timetable is unrealistic," Stathopoulos said, while addressing the council of justice and public order ministers, who convened here to discuss anti-terrorist measures.

He noted that the adaptation of the national legal systems to those measures requires the drafting of a bill and its approval by national parliaments.

The council of ministers discussed, on Thursday the process of establishing a "European arrest warrant", as well as the establishment of a commonly accepted definition of terrorism.

Greece, as well as other countries, preferred the definition which included criminal activities that already falls under the existing anti-terrorist legislation under special circumstances, such as "blind attacks" with innocent victims, to a more general abstract definition, which is especially difficult to be arrived at.

"Nothing has been decided yet," Stathopoulos said, adding that a relevant committee will deal with the particulars, as it will be supported by extra staff and will work intensively under the auspices of the council of ministers, which in turn will discuss the issue in all of its following meetings as an off the agenda issue.

The Greek minister stressed that it became very clear among ministers in this meeting that individuals' right to freedom and justice will not be downgraded for the sake of security.

He said that "our aim is to speed up the process without backtracking from the Human Rights Charter," hailing the stand of the Belgian EU presidency, which committed its efforts to that aim.

The council also dealt with the establishment of a European Judicial Authority and regulations for combating sexual exploitation of minors.

[05] Fontaine: Political problem cannot block Cyprus EU entry

Athens, 28/09/2001 (ANA)

"It is objectively evident that Cyprus fulfils the criteria and will be among the first new countries to enter the EU. There cannot be other accession conditions in the framework that has already been decided on," she said.

Fontaine also said that the island republic's entry into the EU could not be made conditional on achieving a solution to the Cyprus problem. On the contrary, she added, Cyprus' membership of the EU might act as a catalyst for resolving the problem.

According to Fontaine, the European Parliament would not agree to a first wave of countries entering the EU if Cyprus was not among them.

"I cannot, of course, determine my colleagues decisions in advance but I think I know the situation," she said.

Currently on an official visit to Greece, Fontaine made the statements while speaking before the Greek Parliament's European Affairs Committee.

Strengthening Euro-Mediterranean ties and 'reuniting the European family' was a priority, the European Parliament's president noted, adding that countries of east and central Europe, as well as Cyprus and Malta to the south, would each join when they were ready.

During her address, she also said that Europe had to contribute to the fight against terrorism and the resolution of regional disputes, while she urged the development of closer ties with the Arab world.

Turning to the tragic events of September 11 in New York and Washington, Fontaine said these had helped EU countries overcome misgivings about forging a single policy for security and justice, which they had previously been reluctant to do because of concerns over issues of national sovereignty.

"We decided that we could not fight terrorism effectively unless we went ahead with measures such as strengthening Europol and establishing a single European arrest warrant," she said.

The events had also prompted a greater sense of urgency regarding the resolution of regional conflicts such as the Middle East crisis, she added, which might help encourage fanaticism and religious fundamentalism.

[06] Constantine Karamanlis Institute focuses on Greece in Europe

Athens, 28/09/2001 (ANA)

Among others, the event was attended by main opposition New Democracy (ND) party leader Costas Karamanlis, European Parliament President Nicole Fontaine, Greek European Union Commissioner Anna Diamantopoulou and the Institute's President Yiannis Varvitsiotis.

Speakers outlined ascertainments and prospects, as well as the steps taken and those, which yet have to be taken in the wake of the terrorist, attack in the U.S. on September 11.

Fontaine spoke of a series of difficult steps necessitated by the new economic factors of globalization and competition, as well as the problems of enlargement, solidarity, defense and now security.

"Together we made Europe of peace. However, we saw at the gates of the EU that national dissensions can awaken the sufferings of war," she said, adding that the issue of enlargement is a great political responsibility and a great adventure.

Fontaine, referring to the accession of Cyprus to the EU, said the European Parliament is clear that the candidacy of Cyprus cannot be the object of any external factor and nor can it be linked to a solution to the Cyprus issue.

Diamantopoulou made an analytical account of Greece's 20-year presence in the EU.

"If accession constituted a strategic option of economic policy and defense stability for Greece, for Europe the acceptance of our country constituted a challenge and an experiment of political will which if successful, as was the case, would pave the way for enlargement with the other former dictatorships of Europe, such as Spain and Portugal," she said.

Diamantopoulou further said the governments of the 20-year period succeeded in utilizing the new opportunities and challenges and consolidating the country's interests and position in Europe.

Karamanlis started his address by referring to the new dramatic factors imposed by the terrorist act against the U.S. and the effect they will have all over the world and in Europe.

"We should stand united," he said and stressed that his party is in absolute solidarity with the efforts of the U.S. and the EU to handle the crisis.

Karamanlis further referred to the present-day challenges faced by Europe, such as enlargement, institutional reform, economic convergence and common defense, adding that they are challenges for a Europe we all need.

"We are living in a troubled neighborhood of the world. We are the only EU country receiving threats against its borders. The danger of nationalist passions being rekindled in the Balkans is always lurking," Karamanlis said.

[07] Europarliament president meets Olympiad and party officials

Athens, 28/09/2001 (ANA)

Fontaine has stated in the past that the 2004 Olympic Games, apart from being Games returning to their homeland, Greece, also constitute and event concerning the European Union as well. Fontaine also held talks with Communist Party of Greece (KKE) secretary general Aleka Papariga, Coalition of the Left and Progress leader Nikos Constantopoulos and Democratic Social Movement (DHKKI) leader Dimitris Tsovolas.

The recent terrorist attack in the U.S. and the role played by the European Union in developments were focused on during her talks with the party leaders.

Constantopoulos said in a statement that the EU should play a significant role and reiterated his party's position that there should be no blind war reprisals in reply to the terrorist attack against the United States.

He further said that apparatuses for suppressing freedoms should not be promoted in the framework of taking measures to combat terrorism.

On his part, Tsovolas said a convergence of views was reached with Fontaine to a great extent on moves which have to take place in the wake of the terrorist attack in the U.S. and both sides stressed the need for the EU to take an interest from now on in a convergence of real economies and the convergence of the prosperity levels of peoples.

Tsovolas added that concern is general but expressed the hope that hotheads will not prevail in the U.S. and sobriety will have the upper hand because violence begets violence.

[08] Gov't on reshuffle prospects after PASOK congress

Athens, 28/09/2001 (ANA)

Speaking during a regular press briefing in Athens, spokesman Dimitris Reppas said it was inconceivable that any reshuffle be constrained by certain restrictions, adding that PM Costas Simitis retains the constitutionally guaranteed power to change his Cabinet when he pleases.

[09] Greek commissioner reacts to Berlusconi's statement

Greek European Union Commissioner Anna Diamantopoulou, in the wake of a statement by Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi that the Western civilization is superior to that of Islam, referred on Thursday to respect for other people's values and their being different.

"Civilizations do not all have the same values but the condition for their peaceful coexistence is respect for the values of the other and of his being different. Every feeling of superiority or the corresponding downgrading of the collective identity of a society, nation or religion creates discriminations which in turn render creative cooperation at global level impossible," Diamantopoulou said.

Berlusconi had made his statement in Germany on Tuesday.

[10] Defense minister to visit Cyprus

Athens, 28/09/2001 (ANA)

The minister has been invited to attend Cypriot independence day celebrations and will depart the following day.

[11] Greece donates one million dollars to UN for Afghan refugee relief

Athens, 28/09/2001 (ANA)

During a press conference, Papandreou noted that the ministry decided to provide the funds in efforts to deal with the tremendous dimensions the refugee problem has reached.

UNHCR representative in Greece Flore Rohas-Rodrigues was also present at the press conference, along with popular Greek signer George Dalaras, who will perform in two concerts, one on Thursday and a second on Friday in Athens to benefit the refugee relief efforts of the U.N.

Papandreou lauded the efforts of the UNHCR, noting its continual efforts over the past 50 years, since its establishment.

He also said that a foreign ministry's official will depart for Pakistan over the next few days to coordinate the humanitarian efforts of Greek NGOs.

On her part, Rohas-Rodrigues expressed her gratitude for the government and people of Greece for their support to the UNHCR efforts, underlining that the world is currently facing one of the greatest humanitarian tragedies of all times.

[12] Powell and Turkish FM discuss regions of common interest

WASHINGTON, 28/09/2001 (ANA - T. Ellis)

Powell thanked Cem for the right to use Turkish air space, as well as for other facilities and the steadfast support offered to the U.S. by Turkey in many international forums such as the United Nations and NATO.

Cem stressed Ankara's strong support for the campaign launched by Washington against international terrorism, adding that "terrorism has neither religion nor geography" and the problem is global, while noting that his country fully understands the position of the U.S. since it too "has been struck by terrorism."

Cem further said that during the meeting with Powell they analyzed the situation in regions of common interest and underlined that his country supports the effort of the U.S. in practice.

[13] Reactions in Greek Parliament to gunman attack in Switzerland

Athens, 28/09/2001 (ANA)

"Such actions aim to harm democracy and harmed a center of democratic institutions. We must unite our voices against the scourge of terrorism as an international phenomenon," Niotis said, speaking in the Greek Parliament.

The attack was also condemned by main opposition New Democracy's parliamentary spokesman Prokopis Pavlopoulos, who said that "all terrorist attacks target democracy and the rights of peoples.

The grief of the Communist Party of Greece (KKE) for the victims of the attack was expressed by KKE parliamentary deputy Liana Kanelli.

[14] Gov't to spend Dr 150 bln on boosting new economy

Athens, 28/09/2001 (ANA)

The New Economy Growth Fund set up by the ministry will also work with private sector capital, Papantoniou told a launching ceremony for the venture.

He also announced that in future the ministry would offer fewer direct grants or subsidies, focusing instead on measures to improve the business climate, including a less restrictive tax system.

[15] Drys: Terror strikes may mean changes to 2002 budget

Athens, 28/09/2001 (ANA)

Drys said that growth rates were expected to slow down slightly in the coming year, thereby reducing state revenues and necessitating changes to the budget. He predicted that the main economic indices would remain within set targets for 2001.

While presenting his report on the implementation of the 2001 budget between January and August, Drys told reporters that the draft 2002 budget - drawn up prior to the terrorist strikes in the US - would be accompanied by an alternative scenario containing new predictions when it was submitted in Parliament on Monday. This would provide for cutbacks in spending on consumables to counteract reduced tax revenues from a slight dip in economic activity in 2002.

The revised scenario predicts that GDP will rise by 4 per cent instead of the initial 4.6 per cent. Similarly, revised estimates for 2001 are GDP growth of 4.3 per cent instead of 4.6 per cent.

Greece to suffer less than major economies from terrorism fallout: Greece will suffer less than major economies from the repercussions of terrorist attacks in the US earlier this month, the head of the Association of Greek Industries (SEB) said on Thursday.

The country was not at the epicenter of the global economy; inflows of European Union funds were major; and activity was guaranteed through projects for the 2004 Olympics to be hosted by Athens, SEB president Lefteris Andonakopoulos told a news conference.

"Of course, no one can say how long this will last if a crisis erupts. What we believe is that the recession in the world economy must end somewhere around 2002," he added.

Andonakopoulos also said that it was too soon to explain a drop in the rate of growth of domestic industrial output in the first half of 2001.

[16] Europarliament president pleased at Greeks' degree of familiarization with euro

Athens, 28/09/2001 (ANA)

Fontaine, who arrived Wednesday on a three-day visit, met Thursday morning with the boards of directors of the Central Union of Chambers (KEEE) and the National Confederation of Greek Commerce (ESEE).

Calling herself a 'devoted friend of Greece', Fontaine said she was pleased with the fact that Greece was taking part in the "euro adventure", and congratulated the KEEE and ESEE on their "important contribution" to the process of introducing the euro in Greece.

KEEE president George Kassimatis and ESEE president Christos Folias outlined the information campaigns their organizations had applied for their member-businesses, while Folias added that ESEE would soon launch a 'euro-van' that would travel more than 8,000 kilometers with stops in 53 prefectures, where officials would reply to questions on the euro by citizens.

Folias also said that a recent ESEE survey showed that 93.6 percent of merchants knew when the euro would be introduced in Greece, 83.6 percent were informed of when all transactions would be made only in euro, while 65 percent stated they were well informed on the euro and 91 percent knew the precise euro/drachma parity.

[17] Information technology trade fair in Thessaloniki Oct 11-14

Athens, 28/09/2001 (ANA)

Two international conferences will also take place as part of the Info system trade fair; image processing on October 7-10, and information technology applications on October 12-13.

State-owned Helexpo is arranging the trade fair.

[18] BSECP discusses SMEs and political and economic environment

ISTANBUL, 28/09/2001 (ANA - A. Kourkoulas)

Development Ministry secretary general Ioannis Kalogirou is currently in Istanbul and is participating in the BSECP's interministerial meeting on developing SME's in Black Sea countries.

[19] PM outlines plans to fight unemployment through education

Athens, 28/09/2001 (ANA)

In statements after a meeting with Education Minister Petros Efthymiou, Labor Minister Tassos Giannitsis and Deputy Labor Minister Christos Protopappas, Simitis announced plans to provide training for up to 600,000 workers until 2004.

He said that 188 billion drachmas would be spent on courses in technical vocational schools, 90 billion drachmas on initial skills training in Vocational Training Institutes (IEK) and 400 billion drachmas on acquiring further skills and retraining.

He said the government's aim was to allow employees to acquire knowledge and new skills throughout the course of their working lives and thus more easily find jobs.

Among measures announced by the prime minister for achieving this goal was the creation of a national council for professional education, an integrated and adequate system for predicting future needs in the job market and a system for certifying job skills.

[20] Trade group says consumption down after terrorist attacks in US

Athens, 28/09/2001 (ANA)

"There are companies that have not used their cash registers since then, and have not been able to able to order fresh supplies," the trade group's president, Christos Folias, told a news conference.

Banks should ease the crisis by offering loans at lower rates, said Folias, who is also a eurodeputy for the main opposition New Democracy party.

[21] Athens airport unveils flight figures, comments on security

Athens, 28/09/2001 (ANA)

In a written press release, chief executive officer Matthias Mitscherlich notes that "the horrible events in the United States have been a hard blow for international air transport. Although we are optimistic that traffic will rise again, we are prepared to face the new situation, and, together with our partners, overcome difficulties."

According to figures supplied by the Eleftherios Venizelos Airport, seven million passengers and roughly 85,000 flights had been recorded at the east Attica facility at Spata until Aug. 7, following its opening in late March. On average, the airport said around 600 landings and take-offs were recorded on a daily basis, rising to an average of 650 on the weekends and between 658 and 678 daily flights in July and August 2001.

Mitscherlich also stressed that the new state-of-the-art airport successfully coped with its first hectic summer season.

[22] EU Consumer Ministers Council discusses fiscal services

BRUSSELS, 28/09/2001 (ANA - V. Demiris)

Following months of negotiations, the Council reached an agreement on EU directive 97/7 on the sale of fiscal services from a distance. Apostolaki expressed satisfaction over the agreement, saying the directive provides the greatest possible protection for consumers.

On the question of creating an EU patent, the Council discussed the European Commission's draft regulation but reached no agreement. The Belgian EU presidency will present a new compromise proposal at the next Council meeting in an effort to break the deadlock.

Apostolaki said, regarding the discussion on the introduction of the common currency in EU member-states, the Belgian presidency praised Greece for the degree of the country's preparation in light of the euro's circulation.

Apostolaki briefed her counterparts on measures taken in Greece regarding the stability of prices in euro and rounding off prices downwards. She further referred to the double listing of prices already in practice, adding that as of October 1 prices will be listed in euro first and then in drachmas in an effort to familiarize the public with the new currency even more.

[23] Stocks rise in edgy trade

Athens, 28/09/2001 (ANA)

The general share index gained 0.67 percent to end at 2,172.46 points. Turnover was 111.36 million euros.

The index rose due to a last-minute round of buying. Volatility seen during the session was likely to continue in the short term, analysts said.

The FTSE/ASE-20 index for blue chip and heavily traded stocks ended 0.76 percent up; the FTSE/ASE-40 for medium capitalization paper 1.13 percent higher; and the FTSE/ASE-80 for small cap equities 0.65 percent up.

Advances led declines at 176 to 126 with 58 issues remaining unchanged.

The most heavily traded shares were Hellenic Telecommunications Organization, National Bank of Greece, Hellenic Industrial Development Bank, Rilken and Giannousis.

Equity futures end at smaller discount: A discount on equity futures on the Athens Derivatives Exchange narrowed on Wednesday following a rise on the main market.

The underlying FTSE/ASE-20 index for heavily traded stocks and blue chips gained 0.76 percent; and the underlying FTSE/ASE-40 for medium capitalization stocks ended 1.13 percent up.

Changing hands were 6,026 contracts on turnover of 33.0 million euros, traders said.

Bond prices rise in heavy trade: Bond prices in the domestic secondary market on Thursday finished higher in heavy trade focusing on long-term paper.

The Greek benchmark 10-year bond showed a yield of 5.25 percent, and the yield spread over German bunds was 48 basis points.

Turnover through the central bank's electronic system totalled 1.3 billion euros.

Buy orders accounted for the bulk of turnover.

[24] Discussions between IOC and Athens 2004 committee officials

Athens, 28/09/2001 (ANA)

Initially, the IOC Coordinating Committee objected to the construction of the journalists' village at Aghios Andreas arguing that it was too far away from the points of the Olympic installations. This position taken by the IOC Coordinating Committee drew strong reaction by the Athens 2004 Organizing Committee.

At the same time, Romero, who is responsible for the radio and television production of the Athens 2004 Olympic Games, stressed that if the timetable for the construction of the radio and television center was not fully adhered to, it would be unable to operate. According to the timetable, the contractor should be proclaimed by November 9.

In another development, government spokesman Dimitris Reppas denied press reports claiming that World Council of Hellenes Abroad (SAE) President Andrew Athens had said that thought should be given as to whether the holding of the 2004 Games should be given to another country.

Reppas said that he was denying these reports on behalf of both the government and Andrew Athens.

Replying to claims that IOC President Jacques Rogge had issued a strict warning about delays in major Olympic projects, Reppas said that there was neither a strict warning made nor a conclusion drawn concerning delays in Olympic projects. Reppas added that Rogge reiterated IOC's position to monitor at close hand Greece's preparations for the Olympic Games.

Reppas also recalled the IOC president's statement that the selection of Athens to host the 2004 Olympic Games was final and was not subject to revocation, thus denying in this way various press reports from abroad.

[25] IOC commission chairman meets with Greek culture minister

Athens, 28/09/2001 (ANA)

The two men discussed the progress of projects related to the Athens 2004 Olympic Games, and Oswald made special mention of the need to keep up with the timetables for the completion of the projects.

"I am convinced of the success of the Games. However, we want the strict adherence to the timetables. This is the reason for pressuring. We have a responsibility to the athletes. They are some of the top athletes of the world and everything should be ready when they get here, both for the trials and for the regular Games," Oswald said.

"We are confident in you on the subject of constructions. We are certain that you can achieve it. Sometimes, however, you do not understand how great is the project you have undertaken," he added.

On his part, Venizelos said that Greece was making very good progress in preparation for the Athens 2004 Games, adding that there are some legal and archaeological problems with some of the construction projects.

[26] Clashes break out at Athens anti-war rally

Athens, 28/09/2001 (ANA)

Those who were guarding the rally were mainly people from the Athens Labor Center and members of the youth organization of the Communist Party of Greece (KKE) who forced the anarchists away following a clash with stones, sticks and other objects.

Finally, the group guarding the ant-war rally managed to repel the anarchists, forcing them to follow at a short distance the march to Parliament.

The police were not involved in the clashes, while the riot squad followed the anarchists and prevented them from causing more trouble.

[27] PM cites efforts to reduce state bureaucracy

Athens, 28/09/2001 (ANA)

In a brief address, the Greek PM said the Ombudsman institution has substantively helped efforts at creating conditions for a more effective public sector, which has often hampered generations of Greeks via a sluggish bureaucracy and red tape. Simitis noted, in fact, that problems still plague many citizens in their dealings with the public health sector, welfare and pension funds as well as town planning authorities.

On his part, the Ombudsman director Nikiforos Diamantouros said more than 25,000 requests by citizens have been filed since October 1998.

The office has been operating in Greece for the past three years.

[28] Greek Orthodox Archdiocese in US website for donations to aid victims

Athens, 28/09/2001 (ANA)

The website, "www.goarch.org/september11/ donate.html", accepts donations via credit card for the "September 11 Relief Fund" for the families of the victims of the September 11 hijacked planes attacks in New York and Washington D.C.

[29] Nine convicted for Dystos maritime accident

Athens, 28/09/2001 (ANA)

According to an 800-page indictment and expert testimony, the "Dystos" sank due to overloading, poor cargo placement, the presence of (metal) plating on the deck and at the stern, inadequate water-tightness of its hatchways, defective and illegal maintenance as well as inclement weather conditions.

The vessel overturned and capsized in rough seas off the large island of Evia, central Greece, on Dec. 28, 1996 while sailing from Volos to Piraeus with a cargo of 5,300 tons of cement.

Among those convicted were the technical director of Greece's maritime registry, Dionyssis Melissinos, and AGET-Heracles port skipper Nikos Mavros.

All of the convicted individuals filed an appeal and were set free.

[30] Renovation of all ISAP stations by 2003

Athens, 28/09/2001 (ANA)

Transport Minister Christos Verelis also touched on security for the urban rail line and its stations, during a tour at the under-renovation Aghios Eleftherios station in central Athens.

[31] Clerides says "some priority" should be given to the solution of the Cyprus question

NICOSIA, 28/09/2001 (CNA/ANA)

Commenting on Wednesday's UN Security Council statement on the Cyprus peace effort, Clerides said it "was not the end of the story".

At the same time, government spokesman Michalis Papapetrou described the statement as "diplomatic and political pressure on the Turkish side," which earlier this month turned down an invitation to talks by the UN Secretary General Kofi Annan.

President Clerides said the island's economy will be affected by the current situation and future developments and appealed to its people for austerity. "Since they (the US and the coalition to be formed) want a strong front, they will have to solve disputes as well and give some priority to a Cyprus solution and to other disputes between Greece and Turkey," the president said, after watching a Russian helicopter being tested in fire fighting.

Invited to comment on the Security Council statement, he replied that the Council was briefed by Annan's Special Adviser on Cyprus Alvaro de Soto and its President issued a statement which Reuters described as "a slap on Turkey." "This however is not the end of the story," Clerides said.

In its statement, the Council expressed "disappointment for the unjustified decision by the Turkish side to decline" the invitation from Kofi Annan to "resume the search for a comprehensive settlement in New York this month."

The Council also said that "progress can only be made at the negotiating table."

Clerides explained that there are two schools of thought, one which advocates that problems such as the Middle East and other issues will be pushed towards their resolution and the other which believes that such problems will take second place in the world arena.

"This is an issue which we should monitor, to see how things develop," he said, adding that his own assessment is that there will be a combination of the two schools of thought. He said efforts should be made to pave the way for a settlement of the Middle East question.

Referring to the economic repercussions from current and future developments on a worldwide scale, the Cypriot president said the government is following the situation as it unfolds. "The local economy will be affected, whatever we do, the question is to what extent," he said.

"I urge everybody to adopt a policy of austerity until the situation is cleared," he added.

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