Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English, 05-04-20

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

CONTENTS

[01] Greek Parliament ratifies EU Constitution by overwhelming majority

[02] Bold steps are needed to make Europe an int'l political force, PM says

[03] Papandreou: 'Euro-skepticism' based on insecurity

[04] Greek business leaders address Economist conference in Athens

[05] Deputy FM Valynakis addresses Economist Conference, refers to Greek-Turkish relations, Cyprus issue

[06] Emerging new threats for international security stumbling block in unified Europe's path, DM says

[07] U.S. ambassador says U.S.-Europe relations on the mend

[08] Cyprus House Speaker Christofias says it would be a historic mistake to abandon effort for Cyprus solution

[09] Gov't on 'primary shareholder' bill: 'transparency a constant goal'

[10] Inner Cabinet considers draft law on immigration policy

[11] Deputy Interior Minister to attend int'l conference on cross-border cooperation

[12] FM Molyviatis, former Russian PM Primakov discuss bilateral relations, regional issues

[13] PASOK leader meets former Russian PM Yevgeny Primakov

[14] Deputy FM to attend informal conference of NATO FMs

[15] Karamanlis to meet with OECD Sec't-Gen. Johnston on Wednesday

[16] President of the Republic meets Cyprus House of Representatives president

[17] Development minister discusses bilateral Greek-US cooperation with U.S. envoy

[18] Gov't on Talat 'election' in occupied areas

[19] Synaspismos leader criticizes Barroso for not scheduling meeting

[20] Deputy FM Skandalakis concerned over state of expatriate Greek community in Georgian region of Chalka

[21] PASOK party leader makes positive evaluation of latest opinion poll

[22] Greek and Russian officials hold talks in Athens on TOR-M1 anti-aircraft missiles systems

[23] New director appointed for Military Bureau of Presidency of the Republic

[24] Ecumenical Patriarchate's Holy Synod reportedly focuses on situation in Jerusalem

[25] Greek gov't announces huge public works program

[26] Exports up in 2004, trade deficit remains

[27] Gov't bill adapts national law to EU rules on competition

[28] Tourism Deputy Minister in Beijing

[29] Greece and Cyprus sign memorandum for Trans-European Transport Networks

[30] Deputy FM stresses need to boost commerce and investment in Greece and S. Africa

[31] Greek inflation to jump to 3.4 pct in April, NSS forecast

[32] Greece, Syria work to build port authority cooperation

[33] First hydroplane routes to Greek isles on the horizon

[34] International conference on Mediterranean diet to take place in Athens

[35] Gov't publishes consumer rights guide

[36] Stocks rise in blue-chip buying

[37] Ecumenical Patriarch honored by UN as a 'Champion of the Earth'

[38] Health minister questions NGO numbers of trafficking victims

[39] Spokesman: Cyprus issue not topic for discussion at social encounters

[40] Greek Deputy FM Skandalakis to pay official visit to Cyprus

[41] EU Constitution to be ratified by Cyprus end of May

[42] Cyprus president visits Karlovy Vary in Czech Republic

[43] Cyprus minister to attend International Conference in Poland

[01] Greek Parliament ratifies EU Constitution by overwhelming majority

Athens, 20/4/2005 (ANA)

[02] Bold steps are needed to make Europe an int'l political force, PM says

Athens, 20/4/2005 (ANA)

He spoke of the need to support the European Union since "the stronger, more democratic and more social that the EU becomes the stronger its peoples, societies and citizens will be."

Karamanlis referred to the characteristics of the "new era", noting that "we are experiencing the age of globalization, of the Information Society, of the New Economy." According to the prime minister, these conditions demand change and reforms, such as the Lisbon Strategy, which calls for a series of reforms in order to make Europe more competitive and more dynamic.

Karamanlis also referred to the problems Greece faced in the past and the ones it had to overcome in order to achieve the goals set out by the Lisbon Strategy. He outlined the priorities the government has set for itself, which include cutting back on unnecessary costs in the public sector, fighting graft and corruption, addressing the issue of illegal commerce and tax evasion, and developing public property.

He emphasized the fact that Greece's new Stability and Development Program received positive feedback from the European Commission and noted that the government has declared 2005 as the year of competitiveness, an initiative aimed at ensuring high quality of Greek products and services.

Reference was also made to the accomplishments of his government to date, such as a new tax law, a development law, plans for liberalization of the electrical energy and natural gas markets. The government's next series of actions will focus on legislation for public-private partnership, implementation of a new immigration policy, and regulation of certain aspects of labor relations.

"We recognize the problems of the unemployed, the low-wage earners, the low-pension earners, the farmers. However, things do not change by perpetuating the past. Change and reform are needed in order to strengthen social cohesion, in order to create employment opportunities, in order to create a sense of confidence and optimism," he said.

Finally, Karamanlis also touched on the country's foreign policy, including efforts to solve the Middle East problem through the creation of a Palestinian state and conditions of peaceful coexistence, negotiations regarding the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM) name controversy, normalization of Greek-Turkish relations, and the reunification of Cyprus.

[03] Papandreou: 'Euro-skepticism' based on insecurity

Athens, 20/4/2005 (ANA)

Papandreou, the former foreign minister, spoke at an "Economist" conference being held at a downtown Athens hotel.

He added, moreover, that the European Union is a beacon for Balkans and SE Europe, where "Euro-skepticism" is absent and where the region's peoples are more-or-less "Euro-enthusiastic".

In regards to Greece's position vis-a-vis neighboring Turkey, he said the framework of relations for the latter's European prospects, as laid out by previous PASOK governments, must be retained.

However, Papandreou said Turkey's recent provocations in the Aegean do not contribute to this direction, as they result in tension between Athens and Ankara. He also stressed that Turkish leadership must understand that whatever bilateral differences can only be solved via the principles that govern the EU.

[04] Greek business leaders address Economist conference in Athens

Athens, 20/4/2005 (ANA)

Addressing the conference, Kyriakopoulos said the European Commission should lift all bureaucracy hurdles burdening the flexibility and competitiveness of European enterprises and urged the EU's executive to contribute in creating competitive advantages through pressing for the deregulation of markets and services, emphasizing on labor flexibility.

"Greece can set an immediate and realistic goal to be included by 2010 amongst the 10 biggest countries in Europe in IT and telecommunications, Intracom's chief executive George Deliyiannis told the conference. Deliyiannis said the responsibility of achieving this ambitious goal should belong both to the political and business leaders of the country. The state should create an environment supporting innovation through tax measures, adequate capital and effective administration, while business leaders should invest on technologically important projects and to begin activities in technological markets beyond the Greek borders.

Delta Holdings' president Dimitris Daskalopoulos said the business world was a restructuring factor, as it promoted transparency in information, modern production process and it was adopting quality systems.

[05] Deputy FM Valynakis addresses Economist Conference, refers to Greek-Turkish relations, Cyprus issue

Athens, 20/4/2005 (ANA)

"Within this framework, it is difficult for someone to understand what the expediencies of the threat of war (casus belli) are, at a time when Greek-Turkish relations have acquired an intense European dimension of decisive importance. The casus belli is at the very least an anachronism, alien to a policy which should be shaped on terms of the future and not the past," Valynakis said and added:" It is not possible for a country to threaten with war anyone who does not agree with its own interpretation of international law."

Referring to the results of last Sunday's "elections" in the Turkish-occupied north of Cyprus, the Greek deputy foreign minister expressed the hope that the political change will shape new conditions which will allow for the resumption of efforts towards a solution and the reunification of the island."

Regarding the possibility of the undertaking of a new initiative for solving the Cyprus problem, he said:" The experience of the previous period must be taken into serious account, as well as the new situation created by Cyprus' accession to the European Union. We wish for a viable, functional solution, with negotiations based on the (UN Secretary-General Kofi) Annan Plan and in accordance with United Nations resolutions and European principles and values."

[06] Emerging new threats for international security stumbling block in unified Europe's path, DM says

Athens, 20/4/2005 (ANA)

Referring to the European Union, he said that defense unification is the "alter ego" of political unification since sustained political authority contributes to the shaping of a common European security doctrine.

On the question of relations between the NATO alliance and the EU, the minister said supplementation and equality are the keywords in their cooperation.

Focusing on the Balkans, he reiterated that Greece's strategic choice is for the region to become a region of peace, security, stability, prosperity and cooperation.

"This need for cooperation has been confirmed in our contacts with the bordering countries," he added.

[07] U.S. ambassador says U.S.-Europe relations on the mend

Athens, 20/4/2005 (ANA)

Ries pointed out that the US is handling its relationship with Europe with patience and with the willingness to communicate. He called on Europe to approach the issue with a similar attitude.

He said that the US understands that the movements of many European governments are limited by the intense anti-Americanism of public opinion in those countries. Ries, however, pointed out that a similar anti-Europeanism is also appearing in the US recently.

Finally, Ries noted that Euroatlantic relations are at a good stage in general and added that even in problematic times the two sides succeed in cooperating in sectors in which there is a convergence of views.

[08] Cyprus House Speaker Christofias says it would be a historic mistake to abandon effort for Cyprus solution

Athens, 20/4/2005 (ANA)

In his address to the 9th annual Economist Conference, he said that the contents of a solution must remove the causes that have led to the destruction of the island and pointed out that the solution must be agreed upon and not imposed.

Christofias said that certain factors that have emerged in the recent past could help break the current impasse, including Cyprus' accession to the European Union, Turkey's position that no solution is not a solution, Ankara's European aspirations and efforts to normalize of relations between Greece and Turkey.

''It would be a historic mistake to abandon the efforts for a solution to the problem. Partition in Cyprus is not a solution because it does not solve, on the contrary it maintains and deepens all those problems which constitute a grave threat for peace and stability in the region and are a source of problems for the internal cohesion and functionality of the EU itself,'' he said.

The House President called on the international community to meet successfully the question of Cyprus, which he described as ''one of the great challenges'' the UN and the EU have to tackle.

''A solution must be an agreed solution and not a given one, it must exclude the possibility of intervention by third parties in the internal affairs of Cyprus, it must give emphasis to the uniting and not the dividing elements and respect human rights and fundamental freedoms of the people,'' he pointed out.

He expressed hope for a solution as soon as possible and said the Greek Cypriot side is ready to respond to a new UN initiative towards this goal, stressing that with good will and substantive negotiations a UN-proposed solution plan can be amended to render it acceptable to the Greek Cypriots.

A reunited, prosperous and peaceful Cyprus, he concluded, could become a bridge to unite people in peace, cooperation and stability in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East.

Deputy FM and Russia's Commercial Chamber President satisfied with bilateral economic relations

Deputy Foreign Minister Evripidis Stylianidis and Eugeny Primakov, President of Russia's Chamber of Commerce and Industry, expressed satisfaction over the economic relations of both countries, during a brief meeting they had on Tuesday evening on the sidelines of the Economist conference held in Athens.

"Following Prime Minister [Costas] Karamanlis' visit to Moscow, the first agreements are already beginning to materialize, such as the signing of the political agreement regarding the Burgas-Alexandroupolis pipeline and the hosting of the Greek-Russian business forum tomorrow [Wednesday] in Athens," Stylianidis said.

Stylianidis and Primakov also discussed holding a biministerial meeting and sending a business delegation to Moscow in June, as well as the issue of exports.

[09] Gov't on 'primary shareholder' bill: 'transparency a constant goal'

Athens, 20/4/2005 (ANA)

"Our own strategy on transparency remains unaltered: it is a constant goal," he told reporters in response to questions citing statements by European Commission President Jos� Manuel Barroso on Monday, who indicated that the Greek law was not fully compatible with European laws and suggested the need for a "different strategy" by the Greek government.

"The Greek government has one strategic target from which it will not be deflected: to defend transparency, public funds and Greek citizens in an equal way," he said.

The 'primary shareholder' law enacts an article of the Greek Constitution that seeks to prevent media involvement in the process of awarding state contracts, in a bid to promote transparency and ensure that the media fulfill their institutional role. In effect, the law forbids individuals or companies that own at least 1 percent of a media enterprise from bidding for state contracts, while the ban also extends to their spouse and close relatives.

According to Roussopoulos, the government's goal was to pass legislation that will discourage phenomena of graft rather than "create hothouse conditions for such phenomena, as in the past".

He stressed that Athens was still waiting for the Commission's formal reply to a letter sent by the government to defend the necessity of the bill, refusing for this reason to answer questions on whether suspending implementation of the bill was a possible option.

At the same time, the spokesman stressed that ruling New Democracy had been the one that first put Greece on the path toward European Union membership and all that this entailed.

"When we belong to a group of states, we have an obligation to act according to rules that we ourselves have accepted - rules accepted in common," he said.

Roussopoulos also pointed out that an equivalent to the government's "primary shareholder" bill had been passed by the previous PASOK government, which he described as "full of loopholes and containing articles that had been judged unconstitutional by the Council of State". He stressed that the issue had only hit the headlines when ND had introduced new legislation that tightened up the previous laws.

"The bill refers to stamping grounds of the few but interests all Greek citizens, because it refers directly to the essence of democracy. The government's argument with the European Commission concerns the compatibility of article 14, paragraph 9, of the Greek Constitution. We argued that we must defend our Constitution. Were we supposed to not pass laws enacting our Constitution and forget our pre-election pledges to introduce a process for transparency?" he added.

Responding to reporter's questions after a meeting with Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis on Monday, Barroso had said that the entire issue was an "object of legal evaluation", adding that he did not want to make political statements on the matter.

The former prime minister of Portugal said a first assessment showed that the Greek law did not fully comply with European law and expressed hope that the problem would be solved without recourse to the European Court of Justice.

[10] Inner Cabinet considers draft law on immigration policy

Athens, 20/4/2005 (ANA)

The new draft law on immigration, presented by Minister of the Interior, Public Administration and Decentralization Prokopis Pavlopoulos and Public Order Minister George Voulgarakis at a joint press conference on Tuesday, aims to fill the gaps in the legislative framework regarding immigration.

With this bill, the government hopes to establish an immigration policy that will protect both immigrants' rights as well as the country's interests.

Among the most significant changes the draft law calls for regarding entry and the issuance of residence permits to immigrants includes combining the residence permit with a work permit into one procedure, which will be issued by the Secretary General of each District. Additionally, legalization of an immigrant's status in the country will fall under the districts' jurisdiction; until now this responsibility belonged to the prefectures.

By January 1, 2006 special agencies will be created in the districts. An immigrant wishing to apply for a permit will request it from the district. The district will then process the request through its committee, which will decide whether or not to issue the permit. However, a background check by the relevant consulate or embassy will have been conducted before the district proceeds with its review process.

Residence permits will be issued for those wishing to work or study in Greece, as well as to those who have been victims of trafficking. The draft law is also sensitive in the case of families that have been separated.

The draft law also includes severe penal and administrative penalties as a way to prevent the unchecked entry of foreigners into the country.

According to Pavlopoulos, the bill protects immigrants, allows them to freely exercise their rights and at the same time enables the authorities to enforce the laws.

[11] Deputy Interior Minister to attend int'l conference on cross-border cooperation

Athens, 20/4/2005 (ANA)

The conference is being held on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the signing of the Madrid Convention which defined the EU framework for cross-border cooperation.

The conference will focus on the role of cross-border and cross-regional cooperation in Europe's course towards unification, the results of its implementation, future prospects, and countries' roles in its further development.

[12] FM Molyviatis, former Russian PM Primakov discuss bilateral relations, regional issues

Athens, 20/4/2005 (ANA)

Primakov visited Molyviatis at Athens' Errikos Dynan hospital, shortly before the minister's release from the hospital where he underwent minor surgery.

The two men held a "warm" discussion on Balkan issues, the Cyprus problem, and commercial and energy topics.

Primakov is in Athens for an international conference.

Foreign minister discharged from hospital after vascular surgery Foreign Minister Petros Molyviatis was discharged from hospital on Tuesday with a clean bill of health, after undergoing minor vascular surgery over the weekend.

[13] PASOK leader meets former Russian PM Yevgeny Primakov

Athens, 20/4/2005 (ANA)

During a half-hour meeting, the two men discussed international developments and events unfolding in Kosovo, Iraq, Turkey and Cyprus, as well as the Burgas-Alexandroupoli oil pipeline.

Also present during the meeting was PASOK MP Christos Papoutsis and the Russian Ambassador to Athens Andrei Vdovin.

Primakov is currently president of Russia's Chamber of Commerce.

[14] Deputy FM to attend informal conference of NATO FMs

Athens, 20/4/2005 (ANA)

Relations between the organization, the European Union and the UN will be discussed at the conference, as well as issues of international concern, such as the situation in the Middle East, Afghanistan and the Balkans.

[15] Karamanlis to meet with OECD Sec't-Gen. Johnston on Wednesday

Athens, 20/4/2005 (ANA)

Afterwards, the premier will receive visiting OECD Secretary-General Donald Johnston, followed by separate meetings with Labor Minister Panos Panayiotopoulos and Merchant Marine Minister Manolis Kefaloyiannis.

[16] President of the Republic meets Cyprus House of Representatives president

Athens, 20/4/2005 (ANA)

[17] Development minister discusses bilateral Greek-US cooperation with U.S. envoy

Athens, 20/4/2005 (ANA)

[18] Gov't on Talat 'election' in occupied areas

Athens, 20/4/2005 (ANA)

Government spokesman Theodoros Roussopoulos expressed a hope that "Mr. Talat will maneuver within the framework of international legality and contribute more than his predecessors in the effort to solve the Cyprus problem."

Only Turkey, the occupying power, recognizes the breakaway T/C state on the island republic.

[19] Synaspismos leader criticizes Barroso for not scheduling meeting

Athens, 20/4/2005 (ANA)

Synaspismos leader Alekos Alavanos noted that his party is a member of the European United Left/Nordic Green Left (GUE/NGL), a fact that should have earned the Commission president's respect.

The 300-MP Greek Parliament is expected to ratify the treaty later on Tuesday.

Both the ruling New Democracy party and main opposition PASOK have declared their support for the first-ever European Constitution.

[20] Deputy FM Skandalakis concerned over state of expatriate Greek community in Georgian region of Chalka

Athens, 20/4/2005 (ANA)

Skandalakis referred to the lack of security, arbitrary acts against the property of expatriate Greeks, cases of violence and tension prevailing in the region of Chalka where the majority of them live.

The foreign ministry has sent demarches to the relevant authorities of Georgia to take measures for the effective protection of the Greek expatriate community and of their property in the region.

The ministry also stressed in an announcement that it will continue to monitor developments in the region, while Skandalakis will make a visit to the region of Chalka, for an on-the-spot examination of the situation, on a date to be set in the near future.

[21] PASOK party leader makes positive evaluation of latest opinion poll

Athens, 20/4/2005 (ANA)

Papandreou said that not only the latest opinion poll but the previous ones as well are positive for PASOK, but overenthusiasm is not necessary.

"We must stand by the citizen and PASOK must stand by its grassroots," he said and added that the electorate's turn must be handled in connection with local societies in view of the next municipal and prefectural elections.

[22] Greek and Russian officials hold talks in Athens on TOR-M1 anti-aircraft missiles systems

Athens, 20/4/2005 (ANA)

According to defense ministry sources, the discussion was held in a good and constructive climate and concerned, among other things, issues of communication and spare parts regarding the Russian systems.

According to the same sources, the discussions will be repeated ten days later when the Russian delegation will visit Athens again.

[23] New director appointed for Military Bureau of Presidency of the Republic

Athens, 20/4/2005 (ANA)

He has also served in the past, among other posts, with the 117 Combat Squadron as a pilot and trainer for F-4E Phantom jets.

Mandylis had also been an adjutant for an alternate defense minister and of defense ministers, as well as director of the Air Force War Academy and air force attache at Greece's embassy in Washington.

[24] Ecumenical Patriarchate's Holy Synod reportedly focuses on situation in Jerusalem

Istanbul, 20/4/2005 (ANA)

A high-profile letter signed by nearly a dozen top Jerusalem Patriarchate clerics has already been sent to the Church hierarchy here.

According to sources, the Ecumenical Patriarchate is considering the dispatch of a fact-finding committee to determine the extent of the crisis.

[25] Greek gov't announces huge public works program

Athens, 20/4/2005 (ANA)

Addressing a conference by the Technical Chamber of Greece, Souflias said the program included all major road works to be assigned to private groups, with construction works expected to begin in the summer of 2006. The Greek minister said the ministry would begin projects worth 5.0 billion euros this year, of which 3.5 billion euros have already been tendered, while projects worth 500 million euros are expected to be signed by Friday.

Souflias noted that all new contracts were signed rapidly with full transparency and within two months from the day they were announced. He also criticized the Council of State saying its judges were delivering decisions as if they were the legislators in the country.

The Greek minister said the EU congratulated the government for its initiative to reform a system of assigning projects, saying the new system was effectively combatting corruption. Souflias rejected criticism over delays in project procedures and reiterated the government's will to completed projects and to help the engineering sector overcome its current crisis.

[26] Exports up in 2004, trade deficit remains

Athens, 20/4/2005 (ANA)

Imports in 2004 totalled 41.9 billion euros, the association said in a statement after processing data from the Eurostat, the European Union's statistics service.

The proportion of exports to imports was 28.3% in 2004, the lowest figure in the last five years, the statement said.

[27] Gov't bill adapts national law to EU rules on competition

Athens, 20/4/2005 (ANA)

The bill devised by Development Minister Dimitris Sioufas replaces an outmoded 1977 law on control of monopolies and protection of free competition, bringing the market up to contemporary standards.

Approved by the cabinet in November 2004, the bill has since been the subject of consultations with trade groups at home and in the EU.

Among the terms of the legislation are enhanced powers for the Competition Commission, and a lasting framework of cooperation with EU authorities.

Among advantages of the commission's wider jurisdiction will be protection for small and medium sized firms dependent on larger concerns that try to impose illegal trading terms.

[28] Tourism Deputy Minister in Beijing

Beijing, 20/4/05 (ANA)

During his visit in Beijing, Liaskos will meet with Chinese government officials and will speak to Chinese media.

Greece's Tourism ministry, as part of a strategy to open new markets, is strengthening its presence in China with a tourism office in Beijing.

Deputy Culture and Tourism ministers discuss alternative tourism, development of joint policy

Deputy Culture Minister Petros Tatoulis and Deputy Tourism Minister Anastasios Liaskos discussed the need to develop new forms of alternative tourism as well as to develop a joint policy between their two ministries, during a meeting they had on Tuesday.

The two officials agreed that a joint, biministerial committee should be established, whose task will be to define the collaboration between the two ministries and to prioritize areas of joint cooperation in order to create a uniform policy for cultural tourism.

[29] Greece and Cyprus sign memorandum for Trans-European Transport Networks

Athens, 20/4/2005 (ANA)

According to an announcement by the Greek Merchant Marine Ministry, Greece has also signed a similar memorandum with Italy as part of a policy currently being pursued by Merchant Marine Minister Manolis Kefaloyiannis.

The bilateral agreements seek to establish common positions during negotiations within EU organs and to make cooperation between Greece and neighboring EU member-states for preparing and submitting joint proposals to the EU for transport projects more specific.

The Greek government's policy is to strive for the inclusion of as many ports as possible in the Trans-European Transport Networks, in order to secure funds for major infrastructure development and facilities at these.

Other goals are to boost business activity in the areas of small-distance shipping and combined transport in the Mediterranean.

The agreement signed with Cyprus will seek to upgrade Greek and Cypriot ports and create new lines between Greece and Cyprus.

[30] Deputy FM stresses need to boost commerce and investment in Greece and S. Africa

Athens, 20/4/2005 (ANA)

The forum is the realization of one of the goals set during the visit of South African President Thabo Mbeki to Greece in February.

Stylianidis said that the total volume of commercial transactions for both countries between 2000-2004 totaled approximately $70 million annually. He added that Greece's trade deficit does not reflect the country's true potential.

He therefore suggested that both Greece and South Africa should focus on promoting closer cooperation between the public and private sectors, exchange of business delegations, and encourage participation in trade exhibits. For Greece, he also said that cultural events should be promoted.

South African Ambassador to Greece Jannie Momberg talked about the positive prospects of the 'new South Africa', from which racism and xenophobia are absent. Momberg asked that Greece restrict bureaucratic procedures for those interested in investing in the country and suggested that Greek authorities adopt tax collection mechanisms used in his country, which have proved effective.

[31] Greek inflation to jump to 3.4 pct in April, NSS forecast

Athens, 20/4/2005 (ANA)

The officials said this significant increase in the annual inflation rate reflected mainly higher oil prices and, to a lesser extent, higher VAT factors.

[32] Greece, Syria work to build port authority cooperation

Athens, 20/4/2005 (ANA)

Heading a visiting delegation from Syria is the country's deputy maritime transport minister, Imadeddine Abdel Hay, accompanied by officials including the secretary general for ports, Mohsen Hassan.

At a meeting chaired by Greece's secretary general for ports and port policy, George Vlahos, the delegation heard presentations from Greece's ports - Alexandroupoli, Volos, Elefsina, Igoumenitsa, Iraklio, Thessaloniki and Piraeus. Also attending was a representative of the foreign ministry.

Port authority representatives said that they would like to establish contact with Syrian harbors, with a view to creating alliances. The Syrian side proposed twinning arrangements.

In addition, the Syrian side expressed the government's desire to open ports to the global shipping market, following planned improvements to harbor infrastructure.

The visiting officials also linked the growth of Syria's transport capability to the reconstruction of Iraq and a resulting boost for business in the region.

Finally, Abdel Hay pledged to examine problems faced by Greek vessels in Syrian ports; and proposed that the next meeting in the current series should be held in Syria.

[33] First hydroplane routes to Greek isles on the horizon

Athens, 20/4/2005 (ANA)

A hydroplane took off from the Neo Faliro coastline -- the district that hosts several 2004 Olympic seaside venues - for the remote Cyclades (central Aegean) island of Serifos, the latest in a series of test flights by hydroplanes around the Aegean.

Tuesday's flight comes ahead of the upcoming publication of a presidential decree by the transport ministry laying out the rules and guidelines for establishing private hydroplane carriers, licensing, routes, landing points etc.

Among others, operation licenses for sea ports will reportedly be granted only to EU nationals.

In related statements, Transport Minister Mihalis Liapis said the establishment of hydroplane routes between mainland Greece and the islands, or between island destinations themselves, should boost tourism, as well as serving emergency needs.

Hydroplanes had long been frowned on by past governments and the state, partly out of concerns over smuggling and security.

[34] International conference on Mediterranean diet to take place in Athens

Athens, 20/4/2005 (ANA)

The conference is organized by the company 'Iliotopos' and is taking place under the auspices of the development ministry, the City of Athens municipality, the Unified Foodstuffs Control Agency (EFET) and the Research and Techological Development Society (ETAT).

It is also sponsored by several associations representing the Greek food, farming, olive oil and wine industries and the National Institute of Agricultural Studies (ETHIAGE).

During the conference, Professor Dimitris Trihopoulos of Harvard and Athens Universities will present the results of research showing that people that follow a Mediterranean-style diet greatly reduce their chances of developing heart disease and cancer.

Speakers will also present the main hallmarks of the traditional Mediterranean diet - which is based on simply-prepared foods using vegetables, pulses, fruit and olive oil - and the deterioration in the overall health of Mediterranean populations following their recent adoption of a more Western-style diet and the consumption of fast foods, saturated fats and refined carbohydrates.

[35] Gov't publishes consumer rights guide

Athens, 20/4/2005 (ANA)

In an introduction to the work, Development Minister Dimitris Sioufas said the government wanted consumers to take an active part in the market by knowing their rights and exercising them.

"Informed consumers are a safety valve for normal operation of the market, a bulwark against high prices, and a guarantee for continuous improvement of the quality of goods and services," the introduction said.

[36] Stocks rise in blue-chip buying

Athens, 20/4/2005 (ANA)

The Athens general share index closed at 2,905.20 points, marking an increase of 0.56%. Turnover was 155.6 million euros.

The FTSE/ASE-20 index for high capitalization shares ended 0.62% up; the FTSE/ASE-40 for medium cap stocks closed 0.40% lower; and the FTSE/ASE-80 for small cap shares finished 1.00% up.

Foreign Exchange Rates:

U.S. dollar 1.310

[37] Ecumenical Patriarch honored by UN as a 'Champion of the Earth'

New York, 20/4/05 (ANA)

The UN's Environment Program (UNEP) named seven leaders in the field of the environment as "Champions of the Earth" for "setting an example for the world to follow".

"His All Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew (Vartholomeos), known in Europe as the 'Green Patriarch', has taken the lead among religious leaders in his concern for the environment. His Holiness, who was born in the village of Aghioi Theodoroi on the Aegean island of Imvros in Turkey, has initiated seminars and dialogues to discuss the need for the mobilization of moral and spiritual forces to achieve harmony between humankind and nature. Among his many environmental achievements is a series of symposia on the conservation of the seas, as part of 'Religion, Science and the Environment', with the latest being 'The Caspian Sea -- Linking People and Traditions'. The symposium also aims to encourage understanding and a dialogue between the Christian and Islamic faiths," a UN press release noted.

The other recipients include:

-- The King and people of Bhutan;

-- Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al-Nahyan of the United Arab Emirates (posthumously);

-- President Thabo Mbeki and the people of South Africa;

-- Julia Carabias Lillo, the former environment minister of Mexico;

-- Sheila Watt-Cloutier of Canada, president of the Inuit Circumpolar Conference; and

-- Zhou Qiang and the All-China Youth Federation.

[38] Health minister questions NGO numbers of trafficking victims

Athens, 20/4/2005 (ANA)

He recognized that the problem of human trafficking is a real one in Greece, but he said that some statistics were exaggerated so that certain NGOs could secure more EU funding.

According to Kaklamanis, only 13 women are staying at the five shelters which have been established nationwide for this purpose. He said that the ministry invested in the creation of major infrastructure ahead of the Olympic Games, but later realized that there was a significant discrepancy between those seeking protection and the numbers of trafficking victims - women and children - reported.

"I believe there are more cases [of trafficking victims] than actually reported. However, we are obligated to formulate policy based on official and recorded data. The ministry's responsibility is not to record these cases, but to provide psychological and social support whenever necessary," he said.

Furthermore, the minister also clarified that there are many, serious and noteworthy NGOs operating in the country, but at the same time he could not accept that Greece was in a much worse position in terms of trafficking cases than other European countries.

[39] Spokesman: Cyprus issue not topic for discussion at social encounters

Pafos, 20/4/05 (CNA/ANA)

The spokesman pointed out that the question of Cyprus is far too serious an issue to be discussed at social meetings, adding that the problem must remain within the UN framework and the good offices mission of the UN Secretary General with a more active role on the part of the European Union to help find a negotiated settlement.

His comments come two days after Talat was declared the winner of a poll in Turkish occupied Cyprus. He will now take over from veteran leader Rauf Denktash as the leader of the Turkish Cypriot community.

''I would not rule out the possibility of a social meeting between Papadopoulos and Talat but the Cyprus problem is far too serious to be discussed at such meetings, be they for coffee or otherwise. The question of Cyprus is an issue that should be resolved under the UN auspices,'' the spokesman said, replying to press questions.

He said that any meeting should be well prepared to ensure a successful development and added ''the whole effort is to resume the talks as soon as possible with a view at reaching a solution and with the necessary preparation prior to the talks.''

On Sunday's poll in occupied Cyprus, he said the political reality of the situation in the occupied areas must be taken into consideration when talking about ''free and democratic elections'', in that Turkey exercises effective control in that part of the country, by virtue of the massive presence of its troops, and is responsible for what takes place there.

Talat represented the Turkish Cypriot community at last year's talks, under UN auspices, which ended inconclusively. He has since been in the foreground, sidelining Rauf Denktash and has on various occasions launched scathing attacks against Papadopoulos.

[40] Greek Deputy FM Skandalakis to pay official visit to Cyprus

Nicosia, 20/4/05 (CNA/ANA)

An official press release issued here on Tuesday said Skandalakis will be received by Cyprus President Tassos Papadopolos and House President Demetris Christofias and hold consultations with Iacovou.

Skandalakis will also have meetings with Nicosia Mayor Michael Zambelas and associations of Greeks living in Cyprus.

[41] EU Constitution to be ratified by Cyprus end of May

Nicosia, 20/4/05 (CNA/ANA)

Cleanthous said that the House Foreign Affairs Committee is expected to reach a conclusion as regards the issue of British Bases in Cyprus discussed at the Committee, before the ratification of the European Constitution.

The European Affairs Committee on Monday discussed the difficulties it faces concerning the role it is called to play within the new conditions and mainly concerning the exercise of parliamentary control on time and before the discussion of legislation proposals before the Council of Ministers.

Cleanthous said the Committee decided to set up a Subcommittee, under his presidency, to discuss various issues with Cypriot ministries.

Social Democrats Movement EDEK Honorary President Vassos Lyssarides had written the issue of political and legal aspects of British Bases at the Foreign Affairs Committee, because as he said the British have integrated into the European Constitutional Treaty the agreements regarding their Bases in Cyprus, linking them with certain provisions of the European Constitution.

[42] Cyprus president visits Karlovy Vary in Czech Republic

Prague, 20/4/05 (CNA/ANA)

President Papadopoulos and his entourage were welcomed by local authority officials who accompanied him during his tour of the historic town that became renowned in 1358 when Holy Roman Emperor Karl IV found its springs.

After tasting the Karlovy Vary water, President Papadopoulos visited the town's glass factory and the Orthodox Church of Peter and Paul.

The Cypriot president's official visit was due to wrap up on Tuesday night with a meeting with Czech Parliamentarians, members of the Cyprus-Czech Friendship Group.

On Tuesday evening he was due to take part in a live television program on Czech TV entitled "Facts and Comments".

President Papadopoulos returns home on Wednesday afternoon via Zurich.

[43] Cyprus minister to attend International Conference in Poland

Nicosia, 20/4/05 (CNA/ANA)

The Conference jointly organized by the Ministry of Interior and Administration of the Republic of Poland and the Council of Europe, will take place in Warsaw on April 21-22.

The conference coincides with the 25th anniversary of signing the European Framework Convention on Transfrontier Cooperation between Territorial Communities or Authorities in Madrid, the so-called "Madrid Convention".

An official press release issued here on Tuesday says the Cypriot minister is expected to evaluate the facts presented at the Conference regarding the experiences of states that have already signed and implemented the Convention, to decide whether he will suggest Cyprus' accession to it.

The representatives of Member States of the Council of Europe (46 countries) at ministerial level, responsible for issues related to cooperation of local and regional authorities, as well as representatives of the European Union, the Council of Europe, international bodies, euroregions and other subjects involved in transfrontier cooperation, have been invited to participate in the Conference.

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