Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English, 04-09-18

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

CONTENTS

[01] The Athens 2004 Paralympic Games get underway with beautiful ceremony

[02] FM Molyviaties to address UN General Assembly, hold sideline meetings with international counterparts

[03] Foreign ministry spokesman says Greek government was aware of meetings between Cyprus president and Turkish Cypriots

[04] PM Karamanlis confers with Swiss President Deiss on bilateral relations, EU issues

[05] Executive Presidium of Socialist International to convene in Athens on Saturday

[06] Central bank reports rise in current accounts surplus, fall in c/a deficit

[07] Preliminary investigation into press allegations of financial mismanagement at ATHOC

[08] Macedonia-Thrace minister in Brussels for promotion of Thessaloniki's Expo 2008 bid

[09] Avramopoulos receives Thai counterpart, bilateral tourism pact pending

[10] LA.OS party leader Karatzaferis says economy in poor condition

[11] Greek merchandise trade deficit up 7.31 percent in July, yr/yr

[12] FAGE Company to open yogurt factory in United States

[13] GSEE leader warns against 'danger-mongering' vis-a-vis social security system

[14] Hellenic Shipyards clarify position in light of parent company's merger

[15] Black Sea Bank announces five million euros loan for Romanian bank

[16] Gov't extends operation of Investment Reception Centers until June 30, 2005

[17] Human limbs and personal effects retrieved from fatal Chinook in Halkidiki deeps

[18] Survey finds Greeks enthusiastic about Olympic Games

[19] Athens mayor awards German President Horst Kohler with Gold Medal of City of Athens

[20] WADA's general director gives evidence regarding Kenteris-Thanou case

[21] Air force officer suspended from duty on suspicion of accepting bribes

[22] Ecological disaster at Lake Koroneia kills hundreds of lake's fish

[23] EU cyclists visit European Parliament Office in Athens

[24] Albanian arrested for heroin possession, police on trail of drug smuggling ring

[25] National Council examines parties' positions on Annan Plan

[26] COREPER postpones discussion of proposal on financing of Turkish Cypriots

[01] The Athens 2004 Paralympic Games get underway with beautiful ceremony

Athens, 18/9/2004 (ANA)

The ceremony began with 150 children entering the stadium and approaching a tree standing in the centre. The tree - symbolizing the Tree of Knowledge - passed its light to the children, followed by fireworks that lit up the Athens night sky.

Immediately after, the President of the Hellenic Republic Kostis Stephanopoulos, President of the International Paralympic Committee Phil Craven, and Athens 2004 President Gianna Angelopoulos-Daskalaki were introduced. The spotlight then turned to the 750-member choir which sang the Greek national anthem accompanied by Greek singer Vicky Leandros.

After the anthem was sung and the Greek flag raised, six percussionists entered the Stadium, creating a beat to which the 3,850 athletes from 140 countries participating in the Paralympics marched. Greece's flag bearer was Paralympic gold medalist Constantinos Fykas.

Angelopoulos-Daskalaki addressed the thousands of spectators, after all the athletes had marched through the Stadium.

"The Games we open tonight are more than a great sports competition. They are a global celebration of strength and beauty; of diversity and inclusion. We celebrate the Games and the achievements of Paralympic athletes because you represent the best in all of us, the great human spirit that drives us to pursue our dreams and achieve what others view as impossible," the Athens 2004 president said.

"When the Paralympic Flame is carried into the Stadium tonight it will illuminate not disabilities, but athletes; one of the largest gatherings of talent and determination ever assembled. It is an honor for all of us here in Greece - the staff of ATHOC and our wonderful volunteers, to host such an extraordinary group of athletes," she continued, adding that Athens 2004 is the first organizing committee to be staging both the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

"As we built our facilities and worked to make your stay here a pleasant one, something wonderful happened: We also made our own lives in Athens more pleasant and fulfilling as well. Athens has become a more accessible city. After you leave, Athens will remain a better city for all of its citizens, and we thank you for showing us the way," Angelopoulos-Daskalaki said.

The IPC president also welcomed everyone to Athens after Angelopoulos-Daskalaki's address. Craven congratulated the city and the citizens for contributing to Olympic preparations, as well as the public authorities, the IOC, the media and the volunteers.

"But the real heroes of the evening are the athletes. We are here to celebrate you and your sport, but there is more to it than that. You are a beacon of inspiration for millions of people around the world: For those who cannot be in the stadium tonight; for young athletes, who, watching you, will set their sights higher; for the families, friends and organizations that support those young athletes," Craven said.

"The essence of the Paralympic spirit is a Greek heritage, expressed in just two words: "kalos" and "agathos": harmony and excellence paired with nobility and ability. All of you here prove every day that you are all of these things. And tomorrow you will show the world that Paralympians embody the true Greek spirit. Olympians prided themselves on returning to their ancient homeland. The Paralympic Spirit has always been here," the IPC president emphasized.

After Craven's speech, Stephanopoulos declared the beginning of the 12th Paralympic Games.

Gov't, education minister praise Paralympic Games: Education Minister Marietta Giannakou on Friday emphasized that the athletes from roughly 140 countries expected to participate in the 2004 Paralympic Games of Athens will feel "right at home" and will be satisfied with the hospitality of the host-country.

The minister was speaking at the opening of an international Paralympic symposium for the rights of people with a disability, which took place in the Greek capital only hours before a sold-out opening ceremony is set to commence.

"These athletes require our attention, they have equal rights with everyone else," she said, adding that Athens was a difficult city for people with a disability, however, over the past few years it has friendlier for such people.

On his part, the UN Chief's representative, Adolph Oggi, praised last month's Olympic Games as very successful, before expressing his hope that the Paralympics follow suit.

In a related development, government spokesman Thodoris Roussopoulos lauded the pending Paralympic Games as well, saying they demonstrate the effort to surpass the boundaries of human endurance and that they also reward will-power.

A cauldron hosting the Paralympic flame will be lit on Friday evening at the main Olympic stadium, in the presence of Greek Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis, among others.

Meanwhile, special traffic lanes in Athens for accredited vehicles are in effect from Friday to Sept. 29.

Political parties welcome opening of Athens Paralympics: Main opposition Panhellenic Socialist Movement (PASOK) leader George Papandreou made the following statement on Friday regarding the beginning of the Athens 2004 Paralympic Games:

"The Athens Paralympic Games, which begin today, are a global event with special meaning. Not only are they a great sports event they are also a measure of our civilization and humanity.

I would like to welcome all the athletes, Greek and foreign, who are participating in these Games and to wish them good luck. Their participation constitutes for us a message of optimism and hope, a message of will and love for life. It is the strength of the soul and a lesson in life.

Our society, despite efforts and achievements so far, still has a long way to go before people with disabilities everywhere are able to fully and equally participate in the economic, social and public life of their respective country. This is a matter of planning and action, but most of all a matter of mentality and attitude.

I am certain that our wonderful volunteers will once again make us proud, while Greek spectators' presence in the stadiums will support all athletes' efforts," Papandreou said.

The Left, Movements and Ecology (SYN) party also issued an announcement on Friday on occasion of the 2004 Athens Paralympics. SYN urged the public to applaud the will, the participation and the human greatness of the Paralympic athletes, not just the medals they win and emphasized that these Games "have not been corrupted by marketing and commercialization, as have the modern Olympic Games unfortunately."

Additionally, SYN stated that society deprives people with disabilities of their rights to work, travel and quality of life, adding that "we must pursue a modern, social state which will ensure the social integration of people with disabilities."

[02] FM Molyviaties to address UN General Assembly, hold sideline meetings with international counterparts

Athens, 18/9/2004 (ANA)

Molyviatis will be in New York from September 19 to 24 for the UN General Assembly, and was scheduled to address the Assembly on September 23, the spokesman told reporters at a regular press briefing.

On the sidelines of the assembly, Molyviatis would meet separately with the US secretary of state and the foreign ministers of Turkey, Russia, Egypt, the Palestinian Authority and many Balkan countries, and others, he added.

Koumoutsakos said that Molyviatis' trip reflected the great importance placed by the Greek foreign ministry on the UN and aimed at advancing Greece's candidacy for a seat on the UN Security Council, the Cyprus issue, and other priority issues of Greek foreign policy Koumoutsakos said.

Molyviatis, who will be accompanied by deputy foreign ministers Yannis Valinakis and Evripides Stylianidis, would also meet in New York with either Cyprus president Tassos Papadopoulos or foreign minister George Iacovou.

Responding to questions on rumors that UN secretary general Kofi Annan intended to seek a change in the nature of the UN Peacekeeping Force on Cyprus (UNFICYP), Koumoutsakos said that the situation in Cyprus had not altered in such a manner as to justify a significant change in the operational structure and mandate of the UNFICYP.

Deputy FM attends informal ministerial conference on western Balkan countries:

Deputy Foreign Minister Yiannis Valinakis attended an informal ministerial conference in Slovenia on Friday, focusing on possibilities of providing know-how to enable western Balkan countries to be incorporated in the European Union as soon as possible.

Valinakis stressed Greece's steadfast adherence to the incorporation of western Balkan countries in the EU, placing emphasis on the country's continuous and extensive cooperation with all the countries in the region which are orientated towards the EU.

Practical ways with which EU member-states can help this process were examined at the conference and during the deputy minister's bilateral contacts.

[03] Foreign ministry spokesman says Greek government was aware of meetings between Cyprus president and Turkish Cypriots

Athens, 18/9/2004 (ANA)

As for the second part of the question, Koumoutsakos said that "even though this is now history, I only have to simply state that at one point of the long procedure of the negotiations at Burgenstock and in view of the evident impasse for a mutual agreement to be reached by the two sides for a solution, this was also examined as an eventuality."

According to Koumoutsakos "this is proof that there was real will by the Greek Cypriot side for the achievement of an agreed solution."

[04] PM Karamanlis confers with Swiss President Deiss on bilateral relations, EU issues

Athens, 18/9/2004 (ANA)

No statements were made after the meeting.

[05] Executive Presidium of Socialist International to convene in Athens on Saturday

Athens, 18/9/2004 (ANA)

During the sessions, discussions will centre on international developments, with particular emphasis on the Middle East. Also under discussion will be the action of Socialist International as well as the preparations for its next Council which will be held in Johannesburg, South Africa from November 15-16, 2004.

The members of the Executive Presidium of Socialist International were due to observe on Friday night at the Olympic Stadium the opening ceremony of the Athens Paralympic Games, following an invitation by main opposition PASOK leader George Papandreou.

[06] Central bank reports rise in current accounts surplus, fall in c/a deficit

Athens, 18/9/2004 (ANA)

It attributed the substantial year-on-year increase to a rise in the services surplus, mainly through the growth of net transport receipts from shipping, and a decline in net payments for ''other'' services. By contrast, net travel receipts fell. Also a factor was the growth of the transfers surplus in July that reflected an increase in net EU transfers to general government and lastly, to a lesser extent, a narrowing of the income account deficit owing to a drop in net interest, dividend and profit payments.

By contrast, the central bank reported a widening of the trade deficit due to an increase in the non-oil trade deficit and a rise in the net oil import bill. According to other sources, this has increased by 8.5 per cent and now exceeds 14.3 billion euros. During this time, exports increased by 13.14 percent and imports by 11.78 per cent.

The Bank of Greece has also noted a considerable decrease in the current account deficit from January to July 2004 over the same period of 2003, which fell by � 1,295 million to reach � 4.480 billion. It said this development mainly reflected a rise in the services surplus and an increase in the transfer surplus, as well as a small decline in the income account deficit, all of which together more than offset a considerable widening of the trade deficit (which grew by � 1,124 million relative to the same period of 2003).

Specifically, a � 1,916 million (or 11.7%) increase in the non-oil import bill more than offset both a � 739 million (or 13.2%) rise in non-oil export receipts and a small decrease (of � 53 million) in the net oil import bill. The services surplus grew by � 1,859 million owing to a big rise (of � 1,681 million) in net transport receipts (mainly from shipping) and, to a much lesser extent, a drop in net payments for   other services  , while net travel receipts remained virtually unchanged. Finally, the � 516 million growth of the transfers surplus is accounted for by a � 486 million increase in net EU transfers to general government, largely stemming from high inflows in February and July.

According to a financial report by Alpha Bank, the widening trade deficit reflects the low competitiveness of domestic products, also seen in falling production in traditional labor-intensive sectors that are unable to increase production in spite of increasing domestic demand due to the falling competitiveness of their products.

The Bank of Greece also reported a positive net picture for the financial account balance in July, despite a slow rate of net inflows.

In July 2004, a net inflow of � 89 million was recorded under direct investment. The most important direct investment in Greece by non-residents was the acquisition of   Delta Singular Outsourcing Services  (a subsidiary of   Delta Singular S.A.  ) by the US company   First Data  (� 206 million). Under portfolio investment, a net inflow of � 1,275 million mainly reflects the fact that non-residents purchases of Greek government bonds exceeded residents purchases of bonds issued by non-residents. Finally, as regards "other investment", a net outflow of � 1,230 million resulted from an increase in residents claims on non-residents (mainly an increase in credit institutions and institutional investors deposits and repos abroad), as well as a decrease in residents liabilities vis-�-vis non-residents.

In January-July 2004, non-residents direct investment in Greece reached � 748 million, while residents direct investment abroad came to � 312 million, resulting in a net inflow of � 435 million under direct investment. Over the same period, a substantial net inflow of � 6,846 million was recorded under portfolio investment, mainly reflecting non-residents purchases of Greek government bonds (� 12,132 million), which more than offset residents purchases of foreign bonds (� 6,560 million). Finally, a net outflow of � 3,068 million under   other investment  is largely associated with domestic credit institutions sizeable outflows (of � 7,495 million) to deposits and repos abroad and, to a lesser extent, outflows (of � 854 million) for the repayment of loans granted by non-residents, which more than offset non-residents inflows to deposits and repos (� 5,319 million).

At end-July 2004, Greece s reserve assets came to � 3.5 billion, the central bank said.

[07] Preliminary investigation into press allegations of financial mismanagement at ATHOC

Athens, 18/9/2004 (ANA)

The investigation order was based on recent reports by Greek daily newspapers "To Vima", "Kathimerini" and "Avriani", according to which two retired high-ranking judicial officials - former members of the State Auditors' Council who also served on ATHOC's three-member Auditing Committee- accused ATHOC of financial mismanagement.

ATHOC rejected the accusations. In a statement issued to the press later, ATHOC said that under Article 25 of Law 3254/2004, which was passed by parliament in June 2004, all inspections on the ATHOC management and operations were required to be conducted by active judicial officials, and consequently all the retired judiciary officials serving on the ATHOC three-member Auditing Committee and their alternates had been replaced by active judges, two of which were from the State Auditors' Council.

There were three levels of audit at ATHOC, the announcement continued: chartered auditors, an internal audit -- which ATHOC itself established for the preliminary audit of all contracts and payments -- and an outside audit conducted by active judicial officials, in accordance with the new law passed in June.

ATHOC defended its management practices saying they were always in line with the Greek law, and carried out with absolute respect to legality and undisputable transparency.

ATHOC further said that the two retired judges making the accusations, which it identified as George Kokalakis and Panayotis Paraskevopoulos, had both concluded, in audits that they carried out in the period 2000-2001, that the general management "was in accordance with the legal and regulatory provisions" governing ATHOC and the administration of affairs "was conducted in accordance with the principles and regulations" governing its management.

Replying to related questions at a regular press briefing, government spokesman Theodoros Roussopoulos clarified that the task of financial audit was carried out by an auditors' committee, the composition of which was set out under a 1998 law.

The auditing of ATHOC was initially carried out by an auditors' committee comprising active judges, but in 1999, due to the imminent retirement of certain judges, the then government (PASOK), with an amendment, allowed the two members of the auditing committee who had been pensioned (Kokalakis and Paraskevopoulos) to remain in those posts, in an exception to the law, Roussopoulos explained.

The New Democracy government, with an amendment, reinstated the initial provision, and thus the work of the auditing committee is conducted by active judges, the spokesman added.

Roussopoulos said that the latest audit report, which was submitted on April 29, 2004 to Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis in his capacity as culture minister, referred to the management period of 2001-2002 and concluded that the general administration of ATHOC was in accordance with the applicable legislation, regulatory provisions and rules of corporate management.

Regarding the press reports, Roussopoulos said that in every instance and in every organization, auditing of the financial management would be carried out with severity, adding that it was self-evident that "the laws must be adhered to".

This, he added, was the demand of the Greek citizens, and consequently an audit was underway and the relevant report on the entire management period would be submitted at the end of 2005.

[08] Macedonia-Thrace minister in Brussels for promotion of Thessaloniki's Expo 2008 bid

Macedonia, 18/9/2004 (ANA)

Thessaloniki is in the running with Trieste, Italy, and Saragoza, Spain.

Romanian dignitaries briefed on Thessaloniki bid to host EXPO 2008: More than 40 mayors, organization presidents and local government representatives from Romania met Friday with Macedonia-Thrace minister Nikos Tsiartsionis and ministry secretary general Loukas Ananikas in Thessaloniki.

The Romanian visitors were briefed in detail on Thessaloniki's candidacy to host the EXPO 2008 international exhibition which, according to Tsiartsionis, would place the wider region and quality of its agricultural products at the center of international interest.

On Romania's course to EU accession, the two Greek ministry officials reiterated Greece's support for this effort, stressing that the two peoples were "brothers in a common course, the course of the European Union".

The minister said he believed that the difficult years had passed for the region, and that great things were ahead. "In the future, we must, together, build upon the differences in our cultures. This difference is our wealth in the region," Tsiartsionis said.

The Romanian delegation expressed appreciation for Greece's support for his country's European prospect, and expressed certainty that their excellent bilateral cooperation would continue.

[09] Avramopoulos receives Thai counterpart, bilateral tourism pact pending

Athens, 18/9/2004 (ANA)

The visit by the Thai minister comes after Avramopoulos' visit to the Southeast Asia country last June, whereas a bilateral agreement in the tourism sector is expected to be signed in Thailand by the two ministers in the coming period.

Earlier, the Greek minister received visiting Albanian Foreign Minister Kastriot Islami, who expressed his country's interest in expanding its nascent tourism sector.

[10] LA.OS party leader Karatzaferis says economy in poor condition

Athens, 18/9/2004 (ANA)

The country's largest trade exhibition is a traditional stopover for party leaders following the more-or-less unofficial summer season in local politics.

Speaking during a press conference, the outspoken Karatzaferis also called for a change in Athens' policy towards the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM).

Moreover, he said the public expected more from the premier's state-of-the-economy speech last week, an address that serves as the inauguration of TIF every year. Finally, he charged that the government's economic policy is similar to that of previous PASOK governments.

[11] Greek merchandise trade deficit up 7.31 percent in July, yr/yr

Athens, 18/9/2004 (ANA)

NSS, in its monthly report, said that the value of imports-arrivals totalled 3.619 million euros in July from 3.418 million last year (an increase of 5.9 percent), while the value of exports-deliveries totalled 1.083 million euros from 1.055 million euros over the same period, respectively, for an increase of 2.7 percent. Both figures are provisional with final data due to be announced in the next few days.

[12] FAGE Company to open yogurt factory in United States

Athens, 18/9/2004 (ANA)

The decision was taken by the company as a result of the great acceptance of its yogurt in the United States, after it began to export its products to the U.S. four years ago, achieving great success and receiving many awards for the quality of its products, which prompted it to establish the FAGE U.S.A. company.

Increased demand for FAGE's products and the company's intention to meet increased needs in all states in the United States, together with special legislation in the U.S. on imported goods, led to the decision to open the factory.

[13] GSEE leader warns against 'danger-mongering' vis-a-vis social security system

Athens, 18/9/2004 (ANA)

He also referred to what he called "danger-mongering" on whether pension funds will be able to meet their commitments in the future, saying such a development damages confidence in social security. Finally, he said such an "atmosphere of insecurity" causes more and more employees to seek early retirement.

[14] Hellenic Shipyards clarify position in light of parent company's merger

Athens, 18/9/2004 (ANA)

According to the announcement, Skaramangas Campus "will continue fulfilling the contractual obligations it has committed to, in terms of deadlines, quality and cost and will continue contributing to the company's further development."

The upcoming merger of Thyssen Krupp and HDW Shipbuilding will result in the creation of a large European group that will cover the entire range of shipbuilding and ship-repairing activities.

According to Hellenic Shipyards SA, the Greek company, due to its expertise, experience and geographical location, will constitute an integral and independent member of the larger European group.

This development is expected to positively affect Skaramangas Campus in terms of modernization, upgrading and further development.

[15] Black Sea Bank announces five million euros loan for Romanian bank

Athens, 18/9/2004 (ANA)

According to a relevant announcement, the funds will be forwarded, through the Banca Transilvania, to support business cooperation on import and export issues and the development of Romanian production and exports in general.

[16] Gov't extends operation of Investment Reception Centers until June 30, 2005

Athens, 18/9/2004 (ANA)

The decision also envisaged the formation of a working group with the aim to improve the operations and upgrade services offered by Investment Reception Centers. The commission, headed by Industry secretary-general Spyros Papadopoulos, will have to submit its recommendations by October 15.

[17] Human limbs and personal effects retrieved from fatal Chinook in Halkidiki deeps

Athens, 18/9/2004 (ANA)

Patriarch Petros VII of Alexandria and All Africa, as well as another 16 people, were killed when the VIP flight went down on Saturday, while making its approach to land at the monastic community on Mount Athos.

The main section of the helicopter's fuselage has been located at a depth of 865 meters below sea-level. The bathyscaphe and attached equipment were transported to the Athos peninsula by the oceanographic vessel "Aegaio", which is taking part in the search for the helicopter and those on board.

In charge of the on-going operation is the Hellenic Centre for Marine Research, attached to the development ministry, which stressed the huge difficulties involved in retrieving human body parts and other items from such great depths and noted that this had been achieved in the space of just 60 hours.

Meanwhile, government spokesman Theodoros Roussopoulos told reporters in Athens on Friday that the government had decided to take the remains of the crash victims to Larisa to facilitate the transportation of relatives for the identification of the bodies.

He said the government had provided a C-130 plane for their transportation to save time.

The spokesman also reiterated that all the evidence was being examined and that the reports compiled by the two committees currently conducting inquiries into various aspects of the accident and the state's response would be made public as soon as they were completed.

He clarified that factors that may have contributed to the helicopter's fall or to the delay in informing the government would be included in these files.

Commenting on a demand by the Communist Party of Greece (KKE) for a Parliamentary inquiry into the accident, Roussopoulos said the matter remained open for the future.

Prosecutor calls for file on Chinook helicopters procurement from defense ministry: An Athens prosecutor has called on the national defense ministry to forward the file on the procurement and delivery of the specific lot of Chinook helicopters that contained the Chinook that crashed over the weekend, killing Patriarch Petros of Alexandria and All Africa and 16 other persons, it was announced on Friday.

The file was requested by prosecutor Evangelos Kassalias, who has been assigned by chief prosecutor Dimitris Papagge-lopoulos to conduct a preliminary investigation as to whether any acts punishable by law were made in the procurement.

[18] Survey finds Greeks enthusiastic about Olympic Games

Athens, 18/9/2004 (ANA)

The survey, which was conducted between September 10 and 13 in Athens and Thessaloniki, involved phone interviews of 600 people randomly chosen. Of those surveyed, 79% said they were interested in watching the Paralympic Games, while the successful opening and closing ceremonies of the Olympic Games has piqued the interest of 93% of those surveyed who plan to watch the Paralympic ceremonies.

In terms of how the Olympic Games benefited Greece, 69% believe the greatest benefit was the exposure the country enjoyed worldwide, while 43% cited the improved and expanded public transport system.

Additionally, 63% of those surveyed said the most positive event of the Games was the opening ceremony, 41% said it was the volunteers, 30% cited the effective security measures and 28% the smooth staging of the Games.

In terms of negative impressions, 62% cited the doping scandals, 56% the absence of Greek sprinters Costas Kenteris and Katerina Thanou, 34% the cost of tickets, 28% the media's focus on illegal performance-enhancing substances and 27% the increased prices of products and services.

[19] Athens mayor awards German President Horst Kohler with Gold Medal of City of Athens

Athens, 18/9/2004 (ANA)

"The city of Athens honors a distinguished scientist and a wonderful politician and international technocrat today. It also honors a European who became aware of the problems of Europe, in the most intense way, from the early years of his youth. Above all, it honors the President of the Federal Republic of Germany, the biggest country in the European Union, with which the Hellenic Republic enjoys the highest possible level of relations," Bakoyianni said in her address.

"The limits for the development of both our bilateral relations, as well as of inter-European ones, are still great. Athens and all of Greece look forward with optimism to Greek-German cooperation in the future as well, as an important factor of stability and growth for all of their wider region," she added.

President Kohler thanked the mayor for the honor and the hospitality and focused on the need for the further strengthening of relations between the two peoples.

Queen of Sweden meets Athens Mayor Dora Bakoyianni: Queen Sylvia of Sweden met with Athens Mayor Dora Bakoyianni at the Athens Town Hall on Friday in the context of her visit to Greece on the occasion of the Paralympic Games.

During the meeting, the two sides noted the excellent relations between the two peoples, while on her part, the Queen of Sweden congratulated the mayor of Athens for the successful hosting of the Athens 2004 Olympic Games and pointed out the improved changes and the better image which the Greek capital has acquired.

[20] WADA's general director gives evidence regarding Kenteris-Thanou case

Athens, 18/9/2004 (ANA)

Howman was called to testify in order to clarify the rules surrounding doping control as well as to disclose any information he may have related to the case.

Furthermore, the doctors of KAT hospital who signed the press releases regarding Kenteris' and Thanou's condition, after the two were admitted on the evening of August 12 following an alleged motorcycle accident, also appeared before the prosecutors to give evidence.

KAT hospital doctors give evidence to public prosecutor in Kenteris-Thanou case: The doctors that treated Greece's star sprinters Costas Kenteris and Katerina Thanou at KAT hospital after an alleged motorbike accident on August 12 - the same day that they went missing from the Olympic Village and failed to show up for a doping test - on Friday gave evidence before public prosecutors Spyros Mouzakitis and Athina Theodoropoulou, who are carrying out a full-scale investigation into doping in Greek sports.

The investigation has now focused on how the two athletes were admitted into KAT on the night of August 12 and their five-day stay in hospital until August 17.

The prosecutors have called up all seven doctors who, along with the hospital director, counter-signed the medical bulletins issued on the two athletes by the hospital on August 15 and August 16, as well as other doctors at KAT to give evidence.

According to sources, for some of the doctors called to give evidence the two prosecutors have activated a special procedural clause under which they are considered suspects for the offence of issuing a false medical expert opinion.

The affair caused an uproar leading up to the Athens Olympics that kicked off on August 13, given that it involved two of Greece's strongest hopes for Olympic medals. Kenteris had won the gold in the men's 200m in Sydney, while Thanou had won the silver. Public opinion was further angered by revelations that their coach Christos Tzekos was heavily implicated in doping-related scandals. The pair was called before an IOC Disciplinary Commission on their release from hospital to explain their no-show for the doping test, where they voluntarily surrendered their accreditation and withdrew from the 2004 Olympics.

[21] Air force officer suspended from duty on suspicion of accepting bribes

Athens, 18/9/2004 (ANA)

According to sources, the officer arrested by police on Thursday was a lieutenant colonel and he was placed on 12-month suspension, the maximum penalty that is allowed. He was caught receiving money from the contractor in a central Athens hotel, for work at the 251 Air force General Hospital. The officer was allegedly negotiating for the sum of 10,000 euros, while police made the arrest on the basis of 1,900 euros in marked notes that were found on him after his meeting with the contractor.

The order for the officer's suspension was given by Deputy Defense Minister Vassilis Michaloliakos after consultation with Defense Minister Spilios Spiliotopoulos.

Meanwhile, Air Force General Staff chief, Major-Gen. Giorgos Avlonitis, has ordered an internal investigation (Sworn Administrative Inquiry) that will send the officer before a military Court of Inquiry. The Air Force inquiry will also investigate whether the officer, who was entitled to award Air Force contracts, was involved in similar offences in other cases.

Commenting on the affair, Mihaloliakos stressed that the government will be ruthless and unrelenting in its efforts to stamp out corruption and impose full transparency in Armed Forces contracts and procurements.

"Every last euro paid by the Greek people for strong and battle-worthy Armed Forces will be saved," Mihaloliakos stressed.

He also underlined that the ministry's political leadership had confidence in Armed Forces officers:

"The very few that, through their actions, offend the honorable officers' corp. will be cast out. Transparency will shine. The truth will prevail," Michaloliakos said.

[22] Ecological disaster at Lake Koroneia kills hundreds of lake's fish

Athens, 18/9/2004 (ANA)

The Thessaloniki prefecture on Friday banned all fishing in the area, while samples of the waters, the dead fish and blood plasma taken from dead birds found at the lake in previous weeks will be sent to a specialist lab in Great Britain on Monday by order of Thessaloniki Prefect Panagiotis Psomiadis, in collaboration with the appropriate services at the agriculture ministry.

So far, authorities have not been able to determine the exact causes of the huge ecological catastrophe at Lake Koroneia.

The first indications of the disaster came in the second week of September, when more 3,000 dead birds, many belonging to rare species, were found over a small section of the lake's shoreline. Specialists estimated that some 10-15,000 birds may have died along Lake Koroneia in previous weeks.

Their deaths were originally attributed to the poor quality of the water in the wetland - which is protected under the Ramsar and Natura 2000 international conventions and is used by migrating birds as a resting area - due to over pumping and pollution.

Lake Koroneia, one of the most important wintering sites for rare waterfowl in Greece, lies at the upper end of the Migdonia Basin about 15 km from Thessaloniki in Northern Greece. Notable wintering species include Podiceps cristatus, Casmerodius albus, and the globally threatened species Pelecanus crispus and Phalacrocorax pygmeus. Some 15 km downstream is a larger inland lake, Lake Volvi. These are large but quite shallow lakes, enclosed by ranges of hills, which connect with the sea through a gorge into Strymonikos Bay.

Water levels in Lake Koroneia have fallen steadily over the past 20 years due to falling groundwater levels and lower than average rainfall. The lake has been eutrophic since 1995 and is now an average less than 1 m deep and filled with grey-green algae.

[23] EU cyclists visit European Parliament Office in Athens

Athens, 18/9/2004 (ANA)

The cyclists, aged up to 85 years of age, had set off from Paris to Athens.

Their welcome to the Greek capital in an enthusiastic atmosphere was undertaken by the Office for Greece of the European Parliament and in particular by Deputy Director Yiannis Kokalas who stressed that the European Parliament always supports such admirable efforts.

[24] Albanian arrested for heroin possession, police on trail of drug smuggling ring

Athens, 18/9/2004 (ANA)

They said the Albanian, whose name was not released, was arrested in downtown Thessaloniki following surveillance. A search revealed five packets with a total of 2.560 kilograms of heroin hidden under the seat of the detainee's moped.

The Albanian was due to be taken before a public prosecutor.

[25] National Council examines parties' positions on Annan Plan

NICOSIA, 18/9/2004 (CNA ANA)

Government spokesman Kypros Chrysostomides, reading a statement issued after the meeting, which was chaired by President Papadopoulos and which lasted over three hours, said the discussion will continue at the next session of the Council, when the president returns from trips to New York and Brussels.

Council members also exchanged views on the handling of the EU regulation for the financial assistance of Turkish Cypriots.

Chrysostomides said ''the president informed (the members) on the overall positions on the Annan Plan submitted by the parties during their separate meetings'' with the president.

He said a discussion followed, which will be continued during the next meeting of the National Council, top advisory body to the President on the handling of the Cyprus problem.

The spokesman said President Papadopoulos informed in detail Council members on his meetings with representatives of the Turkish Cypriots, noting that all members agreed that the discussion of the issue is over.

Opposition parties have criticized President Papadopoulos for not revealing meetings with Turkish Cypriot politicians prior to the April referenda on the Annan Plan.

Council members also ''exchanged views on the handling of the EU regulation concerning financial assistance of Turkish Cypriots,'' Chrysostomides concluded.

[26] COREPER postpones discussion of proposal on financing of Turkish Cypriots

NICOSIA, 18/9/2004 (CNA/ANA)

EU permanent representatives in Brussels (COREPER) did not discuss on Thursday the regulation in detail because a presidency document with proposed changes to the regulation circulated as late as Tuesday and did not give sufficient time to EU ambassadors to consider the paper.

According to community sources, Cyprus' Permanent Representative Ambassador Nicos Emiliou pointed out that he did not have instructions either to engage in substantive discussions on the matter or to make any commitment because the new document was presented on Tuesday evening and there was not enough time to study it.

Cyprus Foreign Minister George Iacovou, speaking in Nicosia on Thursday, said "it is not possible to have documents circulate at 7-8pm in the evening and expect us to discuss them in the morning."

The presidency document, backed by Britain, is not considered satisfactory by the Cyprus government because it does not secure the right of Greek Cypriots to property.

Regarding a regulation on direct trade between the Turkish occupied areas of Cyprus and the EU, Emiliou stressed he would not discuss the substance of the issue, if the legal basis of the regulation, which has been questioned by the government of Cyprus and the Council's Legal Department, was not changed.

Attempts by the Dutch presidency to discuss the matter in depth failed because of objections from Cyprus and other countries.

Greece's Permanent Representative Vassilis Kaskarelis pointed out that Nicosia's objections concerning the protection of the property rights of Greek Cypriots are justified because this is a serious issue.

On the regulation on direct trade, he repeated that a debate on the matter must be postponed until the Green Line regulation on intra-island trade produces results.

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