Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English, 03-04-17

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

CONTENTS

[01] Historic accession treaty signing sets seal on European enlargement

[02] Greek premier and EU president Simitis welcomes 10 new EU member-states

[03] PM says accession is a historic event, creates new obligations

[04] Cyprus president hails accession as "peak point" of Cypriot struggle to join EU

[05] EU leaders seek draft constitutional treaty for Europe by June

[06] EU summit: Athens Declaration cites members' responsibilities, volition

[07] Historic EU enlargement summit opens - Europarl't president Cox press conference

[08] Blair-Annan: UN should play role in political, econ reconstruction of Iraq

[09] Schroeder says top priority now is aid for suffering people of Iraq

[10] Concern over future of Iraq shared by EU member-states, Chirac says

[11] Russian FM says situation in Middle East extremely dangerous

[12] Aznar wants EU to draft proposal on assistance to post-war Iraq

[13] Swedish PM Persson, UN chief Annan discuss post-war Iraq, Mideast peace

[14] EU presidency preparing declaration on situation in Iraq, sources say

[15] PM on Iraq, Cyprus, elections and polls in 'Ta Nea' interview

[16] FM denies that EU members are 'skirting' Iraq issue

[17] EU summit: 'Nothing new' to offer Cypriot communities

[18] Cyprus gov�t spokesman hopes EU accession will assist Cyprus problem

[19] Turkey charges 'EU has no right to take unilateral decisions' on Cyprus

[20] U.S. welcomes signing of EU Accession Treaty

[21] Greek president hosts dinner in honor of European dignitaries

[22] Incidents at protests against Iraq war during Athens EU summit

[23] Greek-Turkish exploratory talks - 10th round in Athens on Thursday

[24] Turkish warplanes violate Greek national airspace

[25] FinMin unveils shipping policy

[26] Greek March inflation second highest in the EU

[27] Greek stocks end lower on Wednesday

[28] Final statement of the World News Agencies Summit held in Istanbul

[29] Cypriots celebrate EU accession

[30] EU Ambassador says Cyprus' accession adds new focus

[31] US Ambassador congratulates Cyprus

[01] Historic accession treaty signing sets seal on European enlargement

Athens, 17/04/2003 (ANA)

The leaders of the 15 EU member-states and the 10 candidate-countries were joined by Greek President of the Republic Kostis Stephanopoulos and Parliament Speaker Apostolos Kaklamanis in the Attalus Arcade where they signed the 5,000-page treaty that enlarges the Union to 25 members.

Also present at the signing ceremony were main opposition leader Costas Karamanlis and Archbishop Christodoulos of Athens and All Greece, head of the Greek Orthodox Church.

Speaking first at the ceremony, Greek Prime Minister and EU Council President Costas Simitis spoke of a historic day in which Europe could overcome its division into two opposing camps, Eastern and Western Europe, that were a legacy of the Second World War since nearly all European countries now participated in the EU.

This unified whole was inspired by the principles and values which inspired the struggles of our societies for freedom, democracy and social justice, he added.

The Greek premier said the enlarged Union created new obligations to further advance the process of unification and to give the configuration the EU had created more complete form and content, especially with respect to external policy, security and defense that would allow the EU to play the role it aspired to.

''Not just to be called on to manage the aftermath of war but to have a decisive say in 'if' and 'when','' Simitis stressed.

He also stressed efforts within the EU to ensure employment and prosperity and to fight unemployment, poverty and social exclusion.

''We must promote a knowledge society with responsible, informed and able citizens,'' he said.

The rest of the 25 EU leaders each delivered a three-minute speech at the ceremony.

Addresses by EU leaders: Cyprus President Tassos Papadopoulos said a ''new chapter was opening in a Europe reborn'' and stressed that the island republic's EU accession would not import the Cyprus problem into the Union nor cause Cyprus to ease up efforts for a final solution to the political problem.

''We regret the artificial barriers that prevent the Turkish Cypriot citizens from accompanying us in a united Cyprus towards the road to Europe. I reaffirm my unwavering commitment to finding a peaceful, functional and viable solution to the Cyprus problem,'' he said in his address.

Cyprus was committed to fulfilling all its obligations emanating from EU membership, he said, and promised to redouble efforts ''to bring an end to our country's situation, which is the only divided nation in Europe.''

Europe was returning to its history, Estonian Prime Minister Arnold Ruutel told the gathered leaders.

''Estonia looks forward to entering the European Union to guarantee its progress, prosperity and security. We will contribute to the building of this Europe,'' he said.

British Prime Minister Tony Blair praised the eight east European countries entering the Union after decades of being under dictatorial rule, as well as the two Mediterranean island states, Malta and Cyprus. Looking forward to Romania and Bulgaria in 2007, he also commended Turkey`s progress:

''A great opportunity not just for Europe, but for Europe to give an example to the world'' Blair said in reference to what he called the universal principles espoused by the EU.

Spanish premier Jose Maria Aznar looked to the birth of a ''better Europe'' that would be more efficient and able to find answers to the hopes and ambitions of millions of Europeans.

''Today a good day for everyone, a good day for Europe,'' he stressed.

According to French President Jacques Chirac, enlargement would be a success if Europe was able to reform the European project.

''The EU is not just a big market, it is above all a collective ambition, the affirmation of solidarity,'' he said.

Europe was becoming richer because of its diversity but it had to maintain its cohesion, he said.

Thus Europe will bring all its weight behind a multi-polar world, he concluded.

Irish Prime Minister Bertie Ahern said the process of European integration ''lights the way'' and stressed that this was not yet over, with Bulgaria and Romania still to join.

Paraphrasing the famous saw by ancient mathematician and engineer Archimedes - who once said 'Give me a lever and ground firm enough to stand on and I will move the earth' - the Irish premier concluded by saying: ''Europe is firm enough ground''.

Italian PM Silvio Berlusconi said the ''15 and the 10 should become a beacon which can bring freedom and democracy in countries where their citizens do not have it.''

He called for more military spending in order to make Europe ''a major player along with others,'' and ''a true protagonist.''

Latvian President Vaira Vike-Freiberga said Latvia believed in the same values of human life, human rights, in the rule of law as the other countries of the EU. ''We do believe in Europe, we do believe in the future of Europe.''

Lithuanian President Rolandas Paksas said the EU '25' were ''today signing a legal, political act of great importance, which I can describe as the 'act of European unity'... we see that democratic and human rights end with triumph ... today we have proved that we can act together ... this is how we wish to act.''

''I am convinced that Lithuania will be a dynamic and active member of the European Union,'' he added.

Finally, he also stressed that Lithuania`s borders will now be the Union`s external borders, poignantly saying that they ''will be safe and friendly borders''.

Luxembourg premier Jean-Claude Juncker welcomed the 10 new member-states and also saluted Bulgaria and Romania, who are to join in 2007.

He said new members Malta and Cyprus would ''contribute to a policy for the high seas.''

According to Hungarian prime minister Peter Medgyessy ''Separation (from Europe) was cruel and unjust,'' and he hailed the ''peaceful reunification'' of Europe that began with ''the fall of the Berlin Wall and the cutting of the Iron Curtain.''

''We celebrate this event with the Europeans, and I express the gratitude of my whole nation for this ... We want to make a contribution to the common European heritage,'' he said.

Malta's premier Fenech Adami said the Maltese people were proud to be ''taking our rightful place in the European Union'' and wanted to add our own understanding to the Community.

German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder hailed the final collapse of the Iron Curtain signified by this historic day.

''Europe was divided, so as Germany was united, so is Europe, another wall falls and now we are building a united and peaceful Europe. We thank the Eastern Europeans for their courage in taking the course toward United Europe. We thank our friends on the other side of the Atlantic, they helped build Europe,'' he said.

Netherlands Prime Minister Jan Peter Balkenende said that ''A dream is now realized, we are united as a continent, we can be proud of what we accomplished today. It is truly only today that the Berlin Wall has fallen. The challenges facing us are enormous, the European Union has to reassume its economic dynamism. We must fulfill the promises we made to each other and our citizens.

Austrian Chancellor Wolfgang Schuessel stressed the ''perseverance and work of the European Commissioner Guenter Verhuegen and his team that made this day possible,'' and said the present day would go down in the collective memory of Europe. ''We in Austria were raised with the experience of secure borders with barbed wire. The closer we come, the freer we will be to shape our own future,'' he said.

Polish President Aleksander Kwasniewski said Poland's dreams had become reality with the accession treaty signing.

''Today Poland is ready to take up the responsibility for Europe's future along with the other countries. I thank the people of Poland, the country's politicians and the church for their work toward the European integration,'' he said.

Portuguese Prime Minister Jose Manuel Durao Barroso said that history was again being written in Greece and that by opening its door to 10 new states, the EU was doing ''justice to those citizens that for so long could not freely decide their destiny.'' ''This new Europe we are building is a Europe that involves us all ... where all are equal in dignity ... we will have achieved our objective if the new Europe is one of peace and justice,'' he added.

According to Slovenian President Janez Drnovsek the project of a united Europe was marching onwards and this was an important day for Slovenia and all of Europe.

He also stressed the common goals and values of European co-existence, such as peace and a balanced economic management, the rule of law, nature and human rights, which he said were becoming the foundations of a common European identity.

Slovak President Rudolf Schuster said the path of ahead was still difficult, ''but at the end we have a clear vision of the future.'' He also cited a need to continue to support candidate-countries, referring to peace and prosperity, ''which inspired Europe.''

Finnish President Tarja Halonen described EU membership as ''both a challenge and opportunity'' that was not a matter for a ''small elite alone.''

''Benefits are undeniable ... the best advice I can give to new members is to set priorities and complete your preliminary planning. Finland has also supported EU enlargement. It is important to develop cooperation between the Union and its new members. Finland and the Finnish people are happy to welcome the new members into the European Union,'' he said.

Statements by European Commission president, Greek President: European Commission President Romano Prodi hailed the day as one on which ''we can really be proud of what we have achieved in Europe.''

''Today we must thank the peoples of the 10 countries joining the European Union for the peaceful revolution that they have conducted ... we open wide our arms to the 80 million new citizens,'' he said.

''The Iraq war showed us what we must achieve in terms of foreign policy and in regards to the tools to ensure security and defense. Recent history, Balkan history, has showed us that world is a dangerous place,'' Prodi said.

''For those who are marginalized, I would like to send a message of solidarity to Africa, to Latin America, to send a brotherly salute from a continent that is finally being united.

''Finally, I turn to my American friends and allies in saying that no one in Europe forgets that we owe them our freedom ...''

''If Europe is our house, then a free and fair world is our prospect,'' Prodi concluded.

Greek President of the Republic Kostis Stephanopoulos called on the 25 European leaders to gather for a ''family portrait'' at the end of the addresses.

[02] Greek premier and EU president Simitis welcomes 10 new EU member-states

Athens, 17/04/2003 (ANA)

''I would like to note that this effort began in Copenhagen, the candidate countries expended great effort and they deserve our thanks for that, to integrate and meet with the rest of the European Union. Thus we are building a space of security, stability, peace,'' he added.

''The enlarged European Union will face challenges. First of all an EU of 25 members and expecting another two, it cannot anymore function as it did to date,'' he said, adding that new ways have to be found for the development of a common foreign policy, defense and a better economic orientation, as well as the development of relations with the neighboring countries and ways to make it more democratic and transparent to its citizens.

Following the Greek premier, the leaders of the new member-states stressed the importance of this historic day.

Cyprus' President Tassos Papadopoulos stressed that ''this day is historic, maybe the most significant one since Cyprus' independence. We will work for Cyprus toward the better integration of Europe.''

The Prime Minister of the Czech Republic Vladimir Spidla said ''I would like to stress that the Czech Republic has experienced something very historic and we are very pleased and thrilled that the continent is united.''

Hungary's Premier Peter Medgyessy underlined that ''after our very tempestuous history as Europe'', now the continent is coming together, adding that ''we are now very excited that we find ourselves within the borders of the European Union. We very much hope that the other candidates also find their way in. I am of course speaking of Bulgaria and Romania, also the other countries close to our hearts in Europe''.

Latvian President Vaira Vike-Freiberga said that ''in the name of Latvia I would like to thank the member-states for placing their trust in placing us within the European Union. Historical conditions have not been easy but the Greek presidency has made it possible for this day to happen''.

Lithuanian Prime Minister Algirdas Mykolas Brazauskas stressed that ''this is the most significant act of our time ... The most important step that will go down in the history of Europe, a step in solidifying democracy in our countries''.

Maltese Prime Minister Edward Fenech Adami underlined that ''I will go back to 1970 when the Maltese president signed the treaty of association with the European Union, over these years we built an economy of prosperity and now with great satisfaction I signed the treaty of accession. The European Union is our home, one of values, freedom, democracy, human rights, solidarity and the social model of transparency.''

Polish Premier Leszek Miller stressed that ''the fact that we are participating in a historic event will not be repeated. It is a particularly felicitous moment as the effort to enter has ended. A very difficult period of transformation has come to an end, so it is a happy day ... It is difficult to imagine a better venue for the signing of the treaty than Greece.''

Slovakian President Rudolf Schuster noted that ''Slovakian citizens have been waiting long for this moment. In a month's time there will be a referendum in my country. Slovakia will be an active member of the European Union. Slovakia is coming back to Europe although it lies in the very heart of Europe. All Slovakians will work very hard within the European Union. We were very envious when Greece, Portugal and Spain entered the Union.''

President of Slovenia Janez Drnovsek said ''European history is in the making here in Athens. Some 70 per cent of Slovenians are for the accession to the European Union. We are well aware that numerous problems exist in the European Union but we are willing to work to resolve them.''

European Commission President Romano Prodi stressed ''I would like to note the Commission's great satisfaction over the completion of this most major task. Now we have to work extremely hard for the second part of the project by helping the Balkan countries to enter, taking them by the hand maybe faster than in the past.''

Prodi added that the European Union is not only a union of people is also a union of countries thus each country should maintain its identity, and although no decision was made each country may have one commissioner.

European Commissioner for enlargement Guenter Verhuegen said ''you have completed a very significant part of the work for entry. As a side product to the enlargement is the gaining of the know-how for aiding countries toward such processes.''

Verhuegen also spoke of the Turkish candidacy noting that Turkey should be encouraged to continue the reform toward democratization, noting at the same time that Turkey is in a difficult position and needs the understanding of the Europeans.

Speaking of the transatlantic relations he said ''we must not think that this is the end and that these are difficulties that can not be overcome ... We have already decided to have a discussion on transatlantic relations because we want to have strong transatlantic relations.''

Prodi concurred with the statements of Verhuegen and added that Europe and the United States have already been working very close on many issues, such as research on energy issues and called the EU's policy toward the U.S. a ''long term policy of friendship''.

FM hails Accession Treaty as historic moment in development of European Union: Foreign Minister and European Union Council of Ministers President George Papandreou said on Wednesday the signing of the Accession Treaty is a historic moment in the development of the EU.

''The signing of the Accession Treaty for the 10 new members is a historic moment in the development of the European Union. It is an unprecedented development: we are increasing our population in Europe by 105 million people and we are extending the size of Europe by 34 percent,'' he said.

Papandreou hailed the new countries' efforts, even in difficult moments, to reform their economic and political structures to enable them to be harmonized with EU legislation.

He also expressed his conviction that Bulgaria and Romania will be able to join the EU in 2007.

The foreign minister reiterated the Greek EU presidency's support for Turkey's desire to continue reforms to enable a decision to be taken in December 2004 as to when the neighboring country's negotiations with the EU will get underway.

ND leader hails historic day for Europe, Cyprus and Hellenism: Main opposition New Democracy party leader Costas Karamanlis, in a statement on Wednesday on the European Union's enlargement, said the present day is a historic one for Europe, Cyprus and Hellenism.

Karamanlis said it is the biggest enlargement and peaceful association of democratic countries in history.

He reminded that Greece was in this position 22 years ago through the insight and initiatives of Constantine Karamanlis, adding that the signing of the Accession Treaty comes at a crucial moment for the EU which, taught by the past, should handle the challenges of the new era effectively.

Karamanlis called for deeper political unification and the creation of common foreign and defense policy, while noting that the time for great decisions has come for EU governments which should honor their mission.

[03] PM says accession is a historic event, creates new obligations

Athens, 17/04/2003 (ANA)

Greek Prime Minister and President of the European Council Costas Simitis speaking at the Accession Accord signing ceremony hailed the event as historic and said it created new obligations.

The full text of the prime minister's speech follows below:

�Today is a historic day:

� Because we are overcoming the division of European countries into two opposing camps, Eastern and Western Europe, a division caused by the Second World War.

� Because almost all the countries of Europe are now participating in the European Union.

� Because this unified whole is inspired by the principles and values which inspired the struggles of our societies for freedom, democracy and social justice.

� Because today it is once again affirmed that cooperation and solidarity among us has created a political and economic area with an important role in developments in the global community, an area which attracts and inspires, an area that is respected and heeded.

Today is a historic day.

Because our achievement today creates new obligations for us:

� To see the present and the future with sincerity and creativity.

� Not to settle for just managing our achievements to date, but to advance the process of unification. To give the configuration we have created a more complete form and new content.

� To give the Union greater substance vis-a-vis external policy, security and defense, so that it can play the role befitting its potential and aspirations. So that we are not simply called on to handle the situation in the aftermath of war, but have a decisive say about �if� and �when�.

� To serve in the international community as a pole of peace, cooperation and support to peoples.

� To press ahead with this unprecedented experiment of a process which unifies but also endeavors to safeguard our particularities. Cooperation which binds us but also expands our freedoms. To further the experiment of many countries with different levels of economic growth and social development, which are however intertwined in a single area of freedom and democracy.

This day creates new obligations:

� To ensure employment and prosperity for our citizens by combating unemployment, poverty and social exclusion.

� To adjust the European social model to the new social conditions, so that our progress ensures greater social cohesion and justice.

� To win the battle for sustainable development and put an end to the downgrading of the environment.

� To promote a society of knowledge with responsible, informed and competent citizens. A civil society.

Here, in this place, the Agora of Athens, two and a half thousand years ago, people from different races and countries, people with different convictions, came into contact. They met one another with a feeling that they were in one of the centers of the civilized world.

Here we can realize that there is no end to history. Life will continue after today. It is up to us whether this continuation will be a history of peace, creation, cooperation and solidarity. This is what we want from the European Union�.

[04] Cyprus president hails accession as "peak point" of Cypriot struggle to join EU

Athens, 17/04/2003 (ANA)

At the same time, he expressed regret that the ongoing division of the island republic by ''artificial walls and a separating line imposed by force'' prevented Turkish-Cypriots from joining their Greek-Cypriot countrymen within a reunited Cyprus on the path toward Europe.

''As President of the Cyprus Republic, I repeat from this spot, at this historic hour of the signing of the Treaty, my unwavering commitment to use all my strength in the effort to find a peaceful, functional and viable solution to the Cyprus problem that will reunite the now divided people and country in a united and now enlarged European Union.

This commitment is not just the announcement of intention. It is a confirmation of an immovable position,'' he said.

Hailing the ceremony for signature of the accession accords beneath the Athens Acropolis as a ''new chapter in the history and course of renewed Europe,'' he said that 'little Cyprus' pledged to play its part in the collective effort of enlarged Europe to deal effectively with the mounting challenges and demands of the present era.

He particularly stressed that the Cyprus problem would not make the Cyprus Republic's presence within the Community problematic, nor would its accession slow down efforts to achieve a solution.

''On the contrary, we feel more urgently the need to redouble our efforts for a functional solution that allows the implementation of the EU acquis communautaire throughout the Cyprus Republic and that will reverse our country's tragic singularity in being the only divided country in united Europe,'' he said.

Thanking the Greek EU presidency, the EU member-states and other EU institutions for their help in Cyprus' EU accession course, he said they had given the island republic the opportunity to join the area where it belonged, historically, geographically, politically and culturally.

[05] EU leaders seek draft constitutional treaty for Europe by June

Athens, 17/04/2003 (ANA)

At a press conference after the summit, Prime Minister Costas Simitis, current EU president, European Commission President Romano Prodi, Convention for the Future of Europe president Valery Giscard d' Estaing and EU high representative for common defense and security policy Javier Solana reported on the results of the meeting and said that the Community was on track with reforms to EU institutions in light of enlargement, despite differences among member-states.

Simitis said the aim of the meeting had been to hear the points of view of the 25 member-states regarding the reform of the Union's institutions, not to decide what should be done. He noted that the discussion on the Convention for the Future of Europe had been originally scheduled for March but had been postponed due to events in Iraq.

''We agreed that Mr. Valery Giscard d'Estaing should present during the summit in Thessaloniki on June 20 the draft of the Constitutional Treaty,'' Simitis said.

He said that five central issues regarding EU institutional reforms had been presented and that there had been general agreement on some but also disagreements on others.

''The time is short, thus the result may not be the best possible. During the Summit in Thessaloniki we will decide when the intergovernmental conference will meet and with what mandate,'' Simitis said.

He also noted that Wednesday's council had given the 10 new member-states an opportunity to participate and present their views for the first time, though there had been both agreements and disagreements.

''It is the general view that the role of the European Commission should be central. The community model of the European Union will be maintained but will be integrated into more effective venues. We want a more effective Union which will be simpler, more democratic and more transparent,`` Simitis said.

Also, some countries had stressed the need for greater stability and a longer-term presidency that could be more effective, while others maintained that the present system with a six-month rotating presidency should continue, the Greek premier added.

According to d'Estaing, meanwhile, the EU member-states had agreed to appoint an EU foreign minister that could talk on an equal footing with the foreign ministers of the United States and Russia.

The head of the Convention for the Future of Europe also stressed that equality of rights among the Community's citizens and between its member-states was a central issue.

''All Europeans are entitled to equal representation. The rights of states and citizens should be balanced,'' d'Estaing said.

''New members also want to have commissioners, but they are beginning to understand that a rotational system can be used to achieve results and provide equal treatment,'' he added.

Lastly, the head of the Convention pointed out that the existing schedule was very ''tight'' but reiterated his commitment to present a draft constitutional treaty to the European Council in June.

On his part, Prodi said talks had focused on incorporating the Human Rights Charter into the Constitution and issues such as immigration, common police institutions, economic governance, foreign affairs and security, the role of the European Commission and that of the states and the institutions.

''We had some differences of opinion, but there was also convergence of views on major issues,'' Prodi said.

He said the talks in Athens had achieved significant progress and allowed expectations that the work of the Convention would be completed in good time and achieve good results.

The accession process for the 10 new member-states that signed treaties in Athens on Wednesday will be concluded in May 2004.

[06] EU summit: Athens Declaration cites members' responsibilities, volition

Athens, 17/04/2003 (ANA)

Greek Prime Minister Costas Simitis, the host of the two-day historic European Council informal summit, announced the agreement during a press conference after Wednesday morning's opening session, adding that the Declaration further noted the historic importance of the summit.

The Athens Declaration further states that ''Europe is the creation of all, and belongs to all,'' the Greek premier continued, noting that the future of the EU institutions and their reform had been discussed at the morning session.

''The purpose of the discussion was not to issue conclusions, but to mutually inform each other,'' Simitis said, adding that the chairman of the Convention for the Future of Europe, former French President Valery Giscard d`Estaing, had ''listened'' to the views put forward by the member-states` leaders.

''... I cannot give you a detailed account of what transpired in the discussion...We agreed that Mr. d`Estaing will present the constitutional treaty at the Thessaloniki summit on June 20", Simitis told reporters at a joint press conference with d'Estaing and European Commission president Romano Prodi.

Simitis further said that time was short, adding that the results thus far concerning the changes to the European institutions were not up to expectations.

The Greek premier said other points discussed included the role of the European Commission, which he said should be significant, as well as the need to achieve a more ''effective Union... more democratic and more simplified''.

He also said differences over the EU presidency's scope and function were aired, saying some views opposed a six-month rotation of the European Council`s leadership, while other leaders, he added, felt that a more long-term tenure would cause problems in transparency and democratic operation.

D`Estaing, in fact, said that the issue was among the most contentious in earlier deliberations, although a ''middle ground'' was expressed.

The full text of the Athens Declaration is as follows:

Informal European Council: Athens

Declaration, April 16th, 2003

''We the representatives of the citizens and States of the European Union meet today on this symbolic site, under the Acropolis, to celebrate an historic event: The signing of the Accession Treaty for Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, the Slovak Republic and Slovenia.

Our achievement is unique. This Union represents our common determination to put an end to centuries of conflict and to transcend former divisions on our continent. This Union represents our will to embark on a new future based on cooperation, respect for diversity and mutual understanding.

Our Union represents a collective project: A project to share our future as a community of values.

We are proud to be part of a Union founded on the principles of freedom, democracy and the rule of law. A Union committed to furthering respect for human dignity, liberty and human rights. A Union devoted to the practice of tolerance, justice and solidarity.

The essential value of this project lies in the ability of the Union to empower both its citizens and its member states. By working together we and our countries can hope to confront the challenges of tomorrow.

On the threshold of this enlargement, we confirm that the European Union should focus on those tasks that are crucial to the well-being, security and prosperity of its citizens.

We will continue to uphold and defend fundamental human rights, both inside and outside the European Union, including the fight against all types of discrimination on the basis of gender, race, ethnic origin, religion or convictions, disability, age or sexual orientation.

We shall act together to foster sustainable development locally and globally, to combat environmental degradation, and to guarantee a better quality of life for future generations.

We underline our commitment to a dynamic and knowledge-based European economy, open to all, focused on sustainable growth and full employment, but also on social inclusion and economic cohesion.

We shall make the Union a genuine area of freedom, security and justice, and shall continue to uphold each of these core values.

We shall respect the dignity and rights of third country nationals living and working in the EU. The values we cherish are not reserved for our own nationals but apply to all those who submit to the laws of our lands.

On this historic day, as we celebrate the enlargement of our Union, we reaffirm the commitment we made in Copenhagen to �One Europe�, our collective desire to see it continue to develop into an inclusive Union.

Accession is a new contract between our citizens and not merely a treaty between states. As citizens of this new enlarged Union we proclaim our commitment to the citizens of the candidate countries. We are also committed to developing ever deeper ties and bridges of cooperation with our neighbors and to share the future of this community of values with others beyond our shores.

We believe the Union has an essential role to play in the world. We shall work for a more open and equitable global economy and a truly shared global information society, to the benefit of all, especially people in less favored parts of the world. To this end, we will promote relentlessly the dialogue among civilizations and contribute uncompromisingly to strengthening the institutions of global governance and expanding the reach of international law.

We are committed to facing up to our global responsibilities, we will support conflict prevention, promote justice, help secure peace and defend global stability. We are determined to work at all levels to tackle global terrorism and stem the weapons of mass destruction. To this end, the Union will continue to enhance its civilian and military capabilities to enhance stability beyond its borders and further its humanitarian goals. The Union pledges its support to the United Nations and its efforts to assure international legitimacy and global responsibility.

Our collective project, our European Union, is a dynamic one. Constant renewal, while learning from our rich traditions and history, is our very nature. We look forward to the proposals of the Convention on the Future of Europe and to further reassessments of both the structures and the membership of the Union. Our future Europe belongs to all its citizens, without exceptions or exclusions.

We pledge our commitment to defending the fundamental freedoms upon which democracy depends. The democratic ideal must be the rock on which our community of values flourishes, not just for the citizens of today, but for our children and their children. Only through the active participation of its citizens and civic organizations will the Union continue to grow in strength and legitimacy. Reaffirming our commitment to democracy as the fundamental value underpinning the Union, we recognize it also constitutes the fundamental challenge confronting us today.

Our Europe is a Europe for all''.

[07] Historic EU enlargement summit opens - Europarl't president Cox press conference

Athens, 17/04/2003 (ANA)

Just a few short hours before the leaders of the 15 EU member-states and 10 Acceding-States gathered for the signing ceremony beneath the foot of the Acropolis and under a sunny Athenian sky, European Parliament president Pat Cox kicked off the proceedings with a press conference, during which he endorsed the holding of a special European Council (EU summit) on June 30 to advance the procedures of the Convention for the Future of Europe.

''In the European Parliament's view, the timetable laid down in Copenhagen (for the conclusion of the Convention) and confirmed by the decision to call a special European Council on 30 June must be adhered to...There is a momentum in the Convention's work which risks dilution of a later deadline was set now,'' Cox said, noting that ''after the period of disarray in the Union over Iraq, dragging out the Convention process would be the worst signal, it would tell our citizens that we are hesitating about the future course of the Union''.

The Convention would be followed by the IGC (Inter-governmental Conference), which he said needed to be ''completed in good time before'' the Europarliament elections ''so that the voters know what perspective there is for the Union, and the (Euro)Parliament they will be electing''.

Cox said the Convention was ''vital in order to make a Europe of 25 member states work'', noting that ''we must also demonstrate courage and a mature capacity for compromise'' and adding that ''the Convention method is working; it has stimulated public debate...it has allowed conclusions to be drawn...it has been open''.

The proposal for the special summit is consistently gaining ground, and if it does take place, the Greek EU presidency will hold the record for the most (five) Summits held under one six-month presidency. It is recalled that two summits have previously taken place in February and March under the Greek EU presidency, the third is currently in session, while a fourth, marking the end of Greece's presidency is scheduled in Thessaloniki on June 21 ahead of Italy's assumption of the rotating presidency on July 1. The special summit on June 30 would be the fifth under the Greek presidency.

On the Union's enlargement, Cox said it was ''on track'', noting that ''the courageous reforms -- economic, political and social -- that the Accession States have made since the fall of the Berlin Wall, building democracy, the market economy and adopting the acquis communautaire, have involved sacrifices, courage and patience''.

Turning to the European Commission, with respect to its size and composition, he said many in the Europarliament believed that ''all the member states should be represented in all the institutions''.

''If we wish the Commission to be strong, if we want to bolster its authority to take the difficult decisions in implementing the EU policies, public opinion requires that members from all the states sit round the table''.

As for the nomination and posers of the Commission president, ''we welcome the idea that the Europarliament, and not a hybrid body, should elect the President, as we as approving the Commission as a whole''.

''I believe that a vote requiring a majority of all MePs would provide safeguards for the impartiality and independence of the Commission President. Council assent would add legitimacy to such a nomination. But the key is to safeguard the authority of the President of the Commission, particularly i the nomination of his/her colleagues and in the assignment and reshuffling of portfolios and the right to force a Commissioner resignation when warranted'' Cox said. ''This is the greatest guarantee for an impartial presidency'', he added.

On the subject of continuity in the European Council and democratic accountability, Cox was in agreement with making the Council more efficient ''so that its deliberations are better prepared and its decisions vigorously followed up'', but opposed what he called a ''super presidency'' of the EU, which he warned would endanger the ''checks and balances'' of rule in the Union and overall accountability.

As for the creation of an EU Minister for Foreign Affairs, Cox said that the European Parliament "supports the idea that the functions of the High Representative and the Commissioner for External Affairs should be merged", but warned that "we want fusion without confusion".

"This can be achieved if the future Minister for Foreign Affairs is a member of the Commission, proposed by the Council, with the agreement of the Commission President, and like all other Commissioners given their exercise of executive and budgetary responsibilities, subject to a European vote...as a whole," he explained.

"A (EU) Minister of Foreign Affairs would be successful if he/she has sufficient resources -- diplomatic, technical and financial -- at his/her disposal," he said, but warned that "we could end up with a Minister, an apparatus and procedures without substance, unless there is the political will in the member states to make this work". If not, he continued, "we would have a Foreign Minster without a foreign policy: a high office, strong in aspiration, (but) weak in capacity to act".

On the Iraq crisis, Cox said "we don't need a constitutional treaty to get our act together" on Iraq reconstruction, a roadmap for the Middle East and the Union's policy in the western Balkans

Asked about reports that Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul will be "snubbed" at Wednesday's ceremony because the internationally recognized government of Cyprus will sign the Accession Treaty on behalf of the island republic, Cox declined to comment on what he called "speculation". However, he did note that the European Parliament preferred that a reconciled Cyprus would have joined the Union, although stressing that the failure of a settlement should not be a barrier for Cyprus to join the EU.

Finally, he said he hoped Wednesday's signing would be an "incentive" for all sides to achieve a solution.

Later, in a moving reference to the recent road accident in which a truck rammed into a coach carrying high school pupils back to Veria after an excursion to Athens, in which 21 teenagers were killed, Cox expressed his grief and extended his condolences to the children's families, noting that he, too, had lost a child in an accident.

[08] Blair-Annan: UN should play role in political, econ reconstruction of Iraq

Athens, 17/04/2003 (ANA)

Speaking to reporters after a meeting with Annan on the sidelines of an EU summit in Athens and in reply to questions regarding the protests generated by his presence in Athens, the British prime minister said he respected the right of people to have their own view and to protest, adding that war was a terrible thing but also that in the thirty years of Saddam's reign hundreds of people had died.

Blair said that the UN was not going to have a small role in post-war Iraq and that a representative government in Iraq, as well respect for human rights and the rights of the Iraqi citizens, constituted a primary global benefit.

On his part, Annan said that he had had a ''very good talk'' with Blair regarding Iraq and the role of the international community and that of the UN, adding that he expected this role to become clearer within the next few weeks.

Blair downplayed reports of widespread disagreement with the war that has generated large protests both in Greece and throughout Europe, saying ''such protests and dissent is a staple of democracy, something the Iraqi people will now be entitled to following the collapse of the Saddam regime.''

[09] Schroeder says top priority now is aid for suffering people of Iraq

Athens, 17/04/2003 (ANA)

Schroeder said that this must be done in accordance with the UN resolutions.

The second issue, the German Chancellor said, is the restoration of order in Iraq so as to enable the procedure for the start of the country's reconstruction. ''They must do it and the allies have started doing it,'' he said.

The third issue, Schroeder said, is that ''the start of the reconstruction phase prerequisites a UN umbrella which I must discuss with the allies.''

Schroeder made clear that Germany is willing to help in the reconstruction of Iraq under the prerequisite that the United Nations will offer the legality.

[10] Concern over future of Iraq shared by EU member-states, Chirac says

Athens, 17/04/2003 (ANA)

Speaking at the French delegation's press conference, French President Jacques Chirac said the EU's common views on Iraq will be summed up in a relevant declaration on Thursday.

Chirac denounced the destruction and looting of Baghdad's museum and library, saying that following consultations with European Commission President Romano Prodi and the Greek presidency an initiative will be undertaken by the EU to save Iraq's cultural wealth which constitutes a global heritage.

''For those who have even minimum respect for culture and the past what is going on in Iraq is a real crime,'' he said, adding that the EU supports every relevant initiative by UNESCO.

The French president further said that the EU encourages the initiative by the European Commission and its president for the creation of a ''bridge'' with Baghdad to at least enable children in need of treatment to be taken from Iraq to hospitals in Europe.

Referring to the Athens summit, Chirac said the Greek presidency organized and handled it with ''cleverness, quality and finesse.''

[11] Russian FM says situation in Middle East extremely dangerous

Athens, 17/04/2003 (ANA)

He said that if there are issues of weapons of mass destruction or whatever else concerning Syria, bilateral diplomatic and political channels exist and are suitable.

Ivanov made his statements after meeting UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan, who avoided any comment on the same question. The two men discussed the problems of Iraq and of the peace process in the Middle East.

Annan said discussions are being held between the members of the Security Council and efforts are being made to restore the Council's unity, adding that the road map for the Middle East issue is very important and must be delivered as soon as the new Palestinian government is formed, while Ivanov agreed with this position.

The Russian minister said the unification of all Security Council members on a solution to the problem of Iraq and its reconstruction is essential now.

He further said the role of the UN is not merely a main one but it is an irreplaceable one as well and added that Russia will do all that is necessary to enable mutual understanding between the Security Council members on the issue of its role in Iraq. The UN secretary-general said the international organization�s role in Iraq is far wider than that, for example, it was called on to play in Afghanistan.

He also had meetings with the prime ministers of Spain and Belgium, while he is also due to meet the leaders of Ireland and Germany and the foreign ministers of Britain, France and Germany.

Annan, responding to a question by the ANA, expressed sadness over the killing of 10 Iraqi demonstrators in Mosul by U.S. occupation forces in Iraq.

Annan, who was speaking after meeting Danish Prime Minister Anders Fogh Rasmussen, reiterated the appeal he made at the beginning of the crisis on the need to protect the lives of non-combatants.

On his part, Rasmussen expressed his sadness and certainty that the ''allied'' forces will pursue the protection of non-combatants.

Replying to an observation that the deaths of the non-combatants were the result of the invasion, Rasmussen, visibly irritated, replied that tragedies always occur in wars.

The Danish prime minister said he desires an important role for the UN in the humanitarian sector, the administration of Iraq and its reconstruction and ''foresees'' an international mandate by the UN for a security force in Iraq.

Annan avoided any comment when asked whether the UN's reconstruction role and U.S. strategic presence can be combined, saying the issue of when and at what stage of the conflict the UN will become involved should be settled.

[12] Aznar wants EU to draft proposal on assistance to post-war Iraq

Athens, 17/04/2003 (ANA)

Referring to a meeting he had in the Greek capital on Wednesday with European Commission President Romano Prodi, Aznar said discussion focused on �various ways� in which the EU could offer humanitarian and economic assistance to post-war Iraq.

In addition, Aznar told reporters that during a telephone contact he had on Tuesday with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, he reassured him that his country was not a target of a military operation.

[13] Swedish PM Persson, UN chief Annan discuss post-war Iraq, Mideast peace

Athens, 17/04/2003 (ANA)

At a joint press conference after the meeting, the Swedish prime minister said that he had reiterated to the UN secretary general his country's support for the multi-lateral international system and that he had briefed him on his upcoming visit to the Middle East, also stressing the need for support to both sides of the Palestinian-Israeli issue toward peaceful negotiations.

Persson also said that he had reiterated to Annan his country's stance in support of a central UN role in Iraq's reconstruction process.

''I believe that it will not be possible for reconstruction to be concluded without a central role played by the UN. We might be able to start the reconstruction process, but its management, however, the participation of companies and international organizations, is not a unilateral issue. It requires a multilateral approach and this can be implemented under the aegis of the UN'', he said.

On his part, Annan expressed his appreciation to the EU for its support for the UN.

Replying to a press question whether the divergence in stance within the EU impacted the functions of the UN Security Council vis-a-vis Iraq, Annan said that what mattered now was for all European leaders to support the UN and a multilateral approach in the management of the situation in post-war Iraq.

''International cooperation is the only way to solve problems that we confront'' the UN secretary general said.

[14] EU presidency preparing declaration on situation in Iraq, sources say

Athens, 17/04/2003 (ANA)

According to the plan by the ''4'', the UN should assume a main role in the effort both for the relief of the Iraqi population and the country's reconstruction, while the EU will be disbursing about 40 million euros for healthcare to be provided.

According to other reports, the declaration will recognize the role of the United States in Iraq but as a transitional one. The reports also coincide with a statement made earlier by France on UN and EU cooperation with the British and Americans who ''are already in the region.''

Greek Foreign Minister and EU Council of Foreign Ministers President George Papandreou has unofficially undertaken the responsibility of sounding the intentions of partners during a dinner on Wednesday night.

[15] PM on Iraq, Cyprus, elections and polls in 'Ta Nea' interview

Athens, 17/04/2003 (ANA)

The Greek premier stressed that steps had to be taken to prevent Cyprus becoming a 'hostage' to the political problem within the EU.

He also noted that once the political problem was solved, Cyprus would be able to take advantage of its geostrategic position and its developed economy and obtain maximum benefits from its EU membership, thus also increasing its influence.

The Greek prime minister warned that it would be catastrophic for Greece and Cyprus if petty party-political concerns were allowed to overshadow the Cyprus issue, or if attempts were made to make use of the issue on a domestic level.

In questions regarding Iraq, Simitis said it was too soon to reach any conclusions regarding stability and security in the region and that he would continue his efforts to ensure that the United Nations was given the central role that it ought to have in humanitarian aid efforts and in the economic and political reconstruction of Iraq.

Without the legality and legitimization that only the United Nations could provide, he added, the international system could not attain balance and ensure world peace and security.

The Greek PM said there was a real danger that the UN's role would be downgraded, while saying that this would be in no one's interest.

Regarding the impact of the Iraq crisis on the European Union, Simitis disagreed that it had fully divided Europe though admitting that the Community had shown itself weak in foreign policy.

''There is not one member-state that does not want to close this rift,'' he added and stressed that Greece took a positive view of all initiatives and prospects that reinforced the EU and a common EU defense policy.

Turning to domestic issues and recent polls that showed the ruling party slipping behind the opposition, Simitis said that the government did not rule through opinion polls but based on what was good for Greece.

''Otherwise, we will be led to a policy of handouts that has often been followed in Greece in the past with bad repercussions for the economy and the country's international position''.

He also underlined that the government would exhaust its term and not call early elections.

[16] FM denies that EU members are 'skirting' Iraq issue

Athens, 17/04/2003 (ANA)

''I think it is unfair to say that we do not discuss issues concerning Iraq. They have been discussed exhaustively, we all of us discuss the Iraq issue,'' he said.

According to Papandreou, EU ministers had the opportunity to discuss Iraq at the EU General Affairs council the day before yesterday, and he said that more opportunities for talks on the issue would arise during the meetings in Athens and at an informal EU foreign ministers' council to take place in a few days time.

''Of course, there will also be an exchange of views here but definitely tomorrow, during the wider discussion on international issue, it is certain that many will discuss it. I think that both Europe and European leaders have proved that they have their views and when they believe them they can express them, whether others agree or disagree,'' he added.

[17] EU summit: 'Nothing new' to offer Cypriot communities

Athens, 17/04/2003 (ANA)

Simitis will be visiting the island republic as part of a tour of Greece's 14 EU partners and the 10 Acceding countries -- which will be signing the EU accession treaty in Athens later Wednesday at a special ceremony during the extraordinary EU summit.

The purpose of the tour, which will be conducted in Simitis' capacity as EU president-in-office, is to confer on the agenda of the June EU summit in Thessaloniki, but will also include discussion of the latest Cyprus developments, Simitis told reporters.

''`I have nothing (new) to offer the two communities (on the island republic). the EU has announced its policies and its assistance to the Turkish Cypriot side... this procedure must proceed,'' he said.

[18] Cyprus gov�t spokesman hopes EU accession will assist Cyprus problem

Athens, 17/04/2003 (ANA)

The spokesman added the fact that the �official� Turkey was absent from the Accession Treaty singing, was aimed at harming Cyprus.

�Whether they (Turkey) want it or not, Cyprus is officially entering the EU as a member-state and this may give shape to the framework for carrying on efforts to achieve a solution to the Cyprus problem, a solution that would be to the benefit of both Turkish-Cypriots and Greek-Cypriots,� Chrisostomidis noted.

Chrisostomidis, is currently in Athens in the context of the signing of the EU Accession Treaties by ten candidate members-states, which are to fully join the Union on May 1, 2004 with Cyprus being among the ten.

[19] Turkey charges 'EU has no right to take unilateral decisions' on Cyprus

ISTANBUL 17/04/2003 (ANA/A. Kourkoulas)

''Turkey does not accept from a legal and political aspect the Accession Treaty of the Greek Cypriot Administration of Southern Cyprus regarding its full accession and the relevant protocol,'' the announcement stressed. It further charged that the European Union ''does not comply with the prevalence of the law and the principles of democratic legality'' because ''it accepted in its ranks an international dispute which is still before the UN Security Council, despite the objection of the Turkish side.''

Denktash comments on EU accession of Cyprus Republic: Turkish-Cypriot leader Rauf Denktash on Wednesday urged the Turkish Foreign Minister not to attend the ceremony for the signature of the Accession Act between the European Union and the Republic of Cyprus.

Denktash, currently on a tour in Turkey, said that ''we would prefer that Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul had not gone to Athens'', adding ''Turkey has its own assessments, but we hope that he (Gul) will not be present when the Greek-Cypriots sign.''

A historic European Union summit marking the 15-nation bloc's biggest enlargement opened Wednesday in Athens, where 10 Acceding Countries, including the Republic of Cyprus, will sign the Acts of Accession that will formally cement their member-ship in the Union as of May 1, 2004.

[20] U.S. welcomes signing of EU Accession Treaty

WASHINGTON 17/04/2003 (ANA/T. Ellis)

Asked to comment on Wednesday's summit in Athens, Riker replied that the U.S. welcomes the signing of the Accession Treaty of the 10 new members in the EU, stating that ''although the U.S. is not a member of the EU, it systematically supports the enlargement of the EU as a force of stability, peace and prosperity.''

He further reminded that ''after the historic summit in Copenhagen in December, the White House in a statement described it as bold and a historic step which promotes the creation of a Europe, united, free and peaceful, objectives which were the foundation of American foreign policy for decades.''

Concluding, the State Department spokesman said ''the U.S. looks forward to cooperation with the EU and its new members so that there may be greater security and prosperity in the world for the good of all of us.''

[21] Greek president hosts dinner in honor of European dignitaries

Athens, 17/04/2003 (ANA)

Addressing the foreign leaders and officials attending the dinner at the Asteras hotel in Vouliagmeni, a resort just outside Athens, Stephanopoulos expressed the wish that the day will soon come when all the citizens of the continent of Europe feel for united Europe the same feelings of love which they each have for their country.

Having expressed his feelings of joy, respect and genuine friendship to his official guests, he referred to a new era of great expectations which is starting, with the signing of the Accession Treaty, going on to explain that that these expectations are based on the guarantees offered by the past.

''The European Union has achieved many things and can achieve more in the years to come because it is in a position to overcome any existing difficulties,'' the Greek president said, adding that ''our hopes are justified from the important work being made by the Convention for the Future of Europe and the anticipated institutional reorganization of Europe.''

Enumerating the principles and the ideas - sources of inspiration and cohesion - in which will be based the momentum of Europe of tomorrow, Stephanopoulos referred to democracy, solidarity, international law and the aspiration of peace through its implementation.

''Our strength, economic policy and any other, is dedicated to the strengthening of international legality and the institutions which serve it. We respect all those who share with us the same principles and we seek cooperation with them,'' the president said.

[22] Incidents at protests against Iraq war during Athens EU summit

Athens, 17/04/2003 (ANA)

Police immediately converged on the scene and responded with tear gas and noise bombs, though the incidents were taking place at some distance from the sites of the accession treaty signing ceremony and the informal council meeting by EU leaders and guests.

Despite efforts to contain the rally and ensuing march to the British and American embassies, however, this spilled out onto streets surrounding Syntagma for some time.

Some 2,000 anti-war and anti-globalization activists gathered in Syntagma opposite the Greek Parliament to voice their opposition to the horrors of the war in Iraq and the collaboration of British Prime Minister Tony Blair and Spanish Prime Minister Jose Maria Aznar - whom they termed 'undesirables' - in the United States-led war.

Some of the protestors' ire was also directed against the Greek government and EU enlargement, which they said was desired by "plutocrats, imperialists and big capital without the slightest interest in the democratic and human face of the EU".

The march ended in an orderly fashion at around 12:30.

[23] Greek-Turkish exploratory talks - 10th round in Athens on Thursday

Athens, 17/04/2003 (ANA)

Beglitis said that the Greek side would be represented by Foreign Ministry General Secretary Ambassador Anastasios Skopelitis, and Turkey by his counterpart Ugur Ziyal.

The exploratory talks began on March 12, 2002 and continue in a closed framework, without statements to the press.

The process aims to identify ''points of convergence'' that might lead to more structured dialogue and ultimately an agreement on referring the issue of delineating the Aegean Sea continental shelf to the International Court of Justice at The Hague

[24] Turkish warplanes violate Greek national airspace

Athens, 17/04/2003 (ANA)

The infringements developed into 70 violations of national airspace in regions lying to the south of the islands of Chios and Rhodes. In all cases, the Turkish aircraft were recognized and intercepted by Greek warplanes, while in 11 cases the interception process developed into an engagement.

Nine of the Turkish aircraft intercepted by Greek jets were armed, the reports said.

[25] FinMin unveils shipping policy

Athens, 17/04/2003 (ANA)

Addressing a shipping conference in Athens, Mr Christodoulakis stressed that Greece was the only EU member-state to have a Merchant Marine Ministry with executives operating actively with all international shipping organizations promoting Greek shipping interests.

"Our policy is to create the best possible preconditions for the Greek shipping sector and the best prospects for Greek economy. These preconditions are created when Greek shipping is equally participating in international competitiveness...Our shipping policy main principle is to promote free and fair competition and to abolish any protective measures," the Greek minister said.

Mr Christodoulakis said the Greek shipping fleet has to have quality to become competitive. "We aim to a continuous improvement of vessel quality and services," he noted.

The Greek minister stressed that combined policies were needed for the success of government goals and noted that all related government ministries were cooperating towards that goal.

Mr Christodoulakis said that the Greek EU presidency offered the opportunity to promote serious shipping issues, highlighting Greece's significant role in forming a European policy. "Greek shipping accounts for 40 percent of the EU shipping sector, which means that every time transport councils discuss about shipping, practically they talk about Greek shipping," he noted.

Greek shipping sector contributes foreign exchange inflows worth 8.0 billion euros, or 20 percent of the country's trade balance, it employs around 200,000 workers, both at sea and in land services, while the sector's gross added value accounts for 4.7 percent of Greece's Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

Mr Christodoulakis said that the government has adopted a package of measures, including tax incentives, social welfare and pension support and offering shipping services to international organizations.

These measures already have began bearing fruit, with a total of 73 new vessels entering Greece's shipping register in 2002 with an average age of eight years, while 38 vessels entered the register in the first quarter of 2003 (with an average age of four years). A total of 80 vessels were withdrawn from the Greek register in 2002 and another 18 vessels in the first quarter of 2003, leaving the register in balance.

Mr Christodoulakis said that shipping safety and protecting the sea environment should be covered by international law and in accordance with the policy of the International Maritime Organization.

He said that the government would seek to repatriate Greek shipping businesses, mainly from London and New York, a move that "will enhance the country's strength and the role of the shipping sector."

Mr Christodoulakis stressed that the government was giving equal importance to the development of passenger shipping and cruise sectors.

[26] Greek March inflation second highest in the EU

Athens, 17/04/2003 (ANA)

The EU executive's statistics agency, in its monthly report, said that Ireland (4.9 percent) recorded the highest inflation rate in the EU-15, followed by Greece (3.9 percent) and Portugal (3.8 percent). Germany (1.2 percent), UK (1.6 percent) and Belgium (1.7 percent) recorded the lowest rates.

Annual inflation was unchanged at 2.4 percent in the eurozone in March from the previous month, down from 2.5 percent in March 2002. The inflation rate was unchanged at 2.3 percent in the EU-15, both from the previous month and March 2002.

Belgium, France, Italy and Luxembourg recorded the highest increases in the inflation rates in March from February, while Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands recorded the biggest falls in the March 2003-March 2002 period.

Eurostat said that Germany (1.1 percent), Belgium (1.3 percent) and UK (1.3 percent) recorded the lowest average inflation rates in the 12-month period March 2002-March 2003.

[27] Greek stocks end lower on Wednesday

Athens, 17/04/2003 (ANA)

The general index fell 0.40 percent to end at 1,622.54 points, with turnover a low 105.75 million euros.

The Telecommunications sector was the only one to score gains (up 0.41 percent), while the Textile (7.75 percent), IT Solutions (5.14 percent), Wholesale (3.26 percent), Publications (3.04 percent) and Insurance (2.94 percent), sectors suffered the heaviest percentage losses of the day.

The FTSE/ASE 20 index for blue chip and heavy traded stocks fell 0.08 percent, the FTSE/ASE MID 40 index ended 1.60 percent lower, the FTSE/ASE SmallCap 80 index dropped 2.58 percent and the wider FTSE/ASE 140 index fell 1.60 percent.

Broadly, decliners led advancers by 282 to 48 with another 27 issues unchanged.

Derivatives Market Close: Turnover at 68.3 mln euros Wednesday

Equity Index Futures: