Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English, 05-10-03

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

CONTENTS

[01] EU ministers to resume talks Monday on Turkey's EU entry bid

[02] Gov't hopes Turkey will not miss historic chance to join EU

[03] Ecumenical Patriarchate on Turkey's EU prospects

[04] Greek and Turkish communists in anti-EU event in Istanbul

[05] Mutual respect, trust and friendship basis of Greek-Turkish relations, Sezer says

[06] FYROM says name issue may hurt bid for EU entry

[07] Cyprus celebrates 45 years of independence

[08] Main opposition marks anniversary of Cypriot independence

[09] Independence marked in Athens

[10] Opinion Poll: Main opposition takes the lead

[11] Pupils at special education schools to get PCs

[12] Development Minister wraps up US tour, expresses confidence Greece is on right track

[13] Greece to become energy hub through key projects

[14] Gov't sets priority on publicity for farm exports

[15] Deputy FinMin inaugurates "Kavala 2005" exhibit

[16] Gov't deplores assault on sports reporter

[17] Migrant traffickers caught imprisoning, torturing workers

[18] Problems caused by extreme weather conditions in northern Greece under control

[19] Hundreds participate in Athens run

[20] Aegean Games begin at renovated stadium

[21] Cypriot FM to meet British counterpart

[22] Cyprus marks 45 years of independence

[01] EU ministers to resume talks Monday on Turkey's EU entry bid

LUXEMBOURG, 3/10/2005 (ANA/M Spinthourakis, V Demiris)

The United Kingdom, which holds the bloc's rotating presidency, will present a new plan to be drafted after negotiations with Austria, which has sought privileged status for Turkey as an alternative to full membership, if required, a diplomatic source said.

"Major progress has been made towards attaining agreement....It is very likely to happen this morning," the same source said.

Austria and remaining member states were unable to forge a compromise over a working dinner on Sunday. Neither was agreement reached in a follow-up meeting ordained by the UK that ran into the early hours of Monday morning.

The UK's move was interpreted as a bid to exert pressure on Austria to drop its objection to the start of normal entry talks with Turkey, which were originally set for Monday, the source said.

"The Austrian side appears willing to accept Turkey's membership of the EU as the final goal, on condition, however, that concrete conditions will be set," the same source reported.

The conditions are reportedly to monitor that Ankara has fully met entry criteria, and that the 25-nation bloc itself is in a position to absorb the new member when the time comes for accession.

Foreign Minister Petros Molyviatis told the meeting that Greece supported normal EU entry talks for Turkey, as originally plan-ned, although the concerns of each member-state should be taken into account, diplomatic sources said.

The purpose of the entry process was eventual membership of a candidate country if all conditions were met, Molyviatis was quoted as saying.

The minister also noted that Greece was willing to discuss ways of accommodating Austria's position, but without changing the EU's line that the final objective of entry talks is membership for the candidate country.

[02] Gov't hopes Turkey will not miss historic chance to join EU

LUXEMBOURG, 3/10/2005 (ANA/M Spinthourakis, V Demiris)

Speaking to the Sunday Kathimerini newspaper, Molyviatis was commenting on anti-reactions in Ankara to doubts about Turkey's suitability to begin entry talks that have been expressed in the European Union.

"Respect for good neighborly relations must become a daily reality, which does not fit with military activity and acts of provocation in the Aegean," Molyviatis said.

"And neither with extension of this outmoded 'casus belli' between a candidate country and a member of the EU. At the same time there should be no illusions, as all this won't happen from one day to the next," he warned.

The minister rejected criticism by the main opposition Panhellenic Socialist Movement (PASOK) of his foreign policy.

Noting that the government had sought a special parliamentary debate on foreign policy, he said that PASOK had made demands that it could not meet during its 20 years in power.

"The government has succeeded in what it wanted (concerning foreign policy), Molyviatis added.

Turning to a name dispute with the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM), the minister noted that Greece had attained a powerful, constructive and trusted negotiating position through its diplomacy. In the past, the international community had placed Athens into the position of defendant.

Athens objects to the use by the neighboring Balkan country of the name "Macedonia", arguing that it conceals expansionist designs on Greece's northern province of the same name, which borders FYROM.

"In the name issue, a mutually acceptable solution must be found....We have accepted the latest proposals by (UN mediator) Matthew Nimetz as a basis for negotiation. This was a major decision, and nothing more should be expected from Greece. The responsibility is now on the other side, which must now make the next substantive goodwill gesture," Molyviatis said.

On ties between Greece and the US, he stated that the government's European policy was the backbone of overall foreign policy; and Athens maintained the best possible ties with Washington on all levels.

In a separate interview to NET state television, Molyviatis said he disagreed that a special status for Turkey with the EU would suit Greece. "When Turkey becomes a full member it will enjoy all rights, but also have obligations. A special relationship would not guarantee that Turkey also had obligations, as well as rights."

Asked if Athens could have a timescale imposed by the EU that would say, for example, that if Turkey failed to recognize Cyprus by 2006, entry negotiations would come to a halt, the minister said:

"First of all, no-one imposes anything on the EU. Neither have we declared a war against anyone or won a war to impose our decisions. The EU works through understanding, compromise and consensus. By means of these methods, we attained the maximum. And what is that? For the first time in a European document it is stated that Turkey is obliged to recognize the Cypriot Republic as soon as possible."

[03] Ecumenical Patriarchate on Turkey's EU prospects

ISTANBUL, 3/10/2005 (ANA/A. Kourkoulas)

In its statement, the Patriarchate underlines the fact that it, as well as Ecumenical Patriarch Vartholomeos personally, has supported since the early 1990s Turkey's right to join the Union.

"Turkey, with its social and religious structure, will enrich the European Union," the patriarchate states, adding that "we have a long road ahead of us with obstacles that need to be overcome."

Finally, the patriarchate also refers to the contribution of former prime minister and president of Turkey Turgut Ozal, who applied for Turkey's EU membership, as well as to the contribution of Turkish premier Tayyip Erdogan's government which made it possible for accession talks to begin.

[04] Greek and Turkish communists in anti-EU event in Istanbul

ISTANBUL, 3/10/2005 (ANA/A.Kourkoulas)

"The struggle is a common struggle," Dimitris Koutsoumbas, member of the KKE's political bureau, said in his address to the participants, adding that the EU was "a reactionary union of the capital against workers and peoples".

"The EU has neither been established by workers nor for the workers. The EU has been established by reactionary capital in order to exploit working people even harder, to proceed into coordinated attacks with the aim of abolishing rights and gains of the working and trade union movements," Koutsoumbas added.

On Saturday the Communist Party of Turkey and the KKE organized a conference here on "Developments in the imperialist system and the momentum of the struggle against imperialism".

[05] Mutual respect, trust and friendship basis of Greek-Turkish relations, Sezer says

ISTANBUL, 3/10/2005 (ANA/A.Kourkoulas)

"We wish Greece to continue its efforts to show the same will and to protect dialogue milieu," he said.

"Developments in relations ease solution of bilateral problems. Such a development is beneficial not only for Turkey and Greece, but also for the region," Sezer added.

[06] FYROM says name issue may hurt bid for EU entry

SKOPJE, 3/10/2005 (ANA/N Frangopoulos)

"We must not close our eyes. The rift over the name may affect our move towards EU entry," Prime Minister Vlado Buckovski said in an interview to the BBC's local service on September 29.

"The meeting with (UK premier) Tony Blair in Brighton and talks we had in London with British officials confirmed that Greek diplomacy has succeeded in placing the pending issue of the name on the EU's agenda, despite the fact that the name issue has nothing to do with the Copenhagen criteria," Buckovski was quoted as saying.

It was the first time FYROM's premier stated publicly that the name dispute could hurt the country's attempt to become a member of the 25-nation bloc. The United Kingdom currently holds the EU's rotating presidency.

Athens objects to the use by the neighboring Balkan country of the name "Macedonia", arguing that it conceals expansionist designs on Greece's northern province of the same name.

The latest name proposal by UN mediator Matthew Nimetz has been accepted by Greece as a good basis for negotiations; no positive answer has been given by FYROM.

[07] Cyprus celebrates 45 years of independence

NICOSIA, 3/10/2005 (ANA/A Viketos, CNA)

President Tassos Papadopoulos took the salute in a military parade, flanked by Defense Minister Kyriakos Mavronikolas and Greek National Defense Minister Spilios Spiliotopoulos.

In brief statements after the parade, Papadopoulos said his objective was to establish peace in Cyprus through a functional and just political settlement.

''As long as this solution is delayed because of Turkey's intransigence or Turkish refusal to negotiate in a substantive manner, it is our duty and priority to strengthen our defenses,'' he noted.

The president stated that Greece was a firm supporter and associate.

Earlier, Spiliotopoulos met the Cypriot president; and was briefed on the island republic's defense by Mavronikolas, the head of the National Guard, and other senior officials.

[08] Main opposition marks anniversary of Cypriot independence

ATHENS, 3/10/2005 (ANA)

"As a full member-state of the European Union, the Cypriot republic may reap the fruits of its endeavor with cooperation and backing from its partners in all crucial areas, such as trade and the economy," PASOK leader George Papandreou said in a message to Cyprus President Tassos Papadopoulos.

[09] Independence marked in Athens

ATHENS, 3/10/2005 (ANA)

"At this time there is great hope for Cyprus. For the first time since 1974, there is some light. As a nation, we are currently experiencing our best period as the Cyprus problem is a central issue for debate and resolution by the European Union's member countries and the United Nations," Yeoryis noted.

Similar celebrations were planned for other Athens squares named "Cyprus".

[10] Opinion Poll: Main opposition takes the lead

ATHENS, 3/10/2005 (ANA)

In the poll commissioned by the Kosmos tou Ependiti weekly newspaper, the Communist Party of Greece took 6.0% of the vote; the Coalition of the Left, Movements and Ecology 3.2%; Laos 2.5%; and other parties 0.4%. The undecided vote was 4.1%.

Asked to name the party most likely to win national elections, ND took the lead at 46%, followed by PASOK at 28%.

The nationwide poll was conducted by Dimel on 15-23 September, employing a sample of 2,000 people.

Opposition leader: Favorable opinion polls reflect the party's work

The leader of the main opposition Panhellenic Socialist Movement (PASOK), George Papandreou, said on Saturday that opinion polls showing a shift to his party by voters reflected work that had been done.

"These show the good work that's taken place in PASOK. Nevertheless, opinion polls are simply a useful tool, and not a guide or an end in themselves," Papandreou told PASOK's national council.

"Our guide is Greece's interest, the interests of the Greek public," he said.

A poll published on Saturday showed PASOK gaining 41.2% of voter preference with the ruling New Democracy (ND) party at 40.3%. Asked to name the party most likely to win national elections, respondents gave ND 46% and PASOK 28%.

Papandreou sharply criticized government policy in its entirety.

"I don't know what they will try to present, I don't know what they will want to say about 2007 as the year of concessions. I do know, however, that in reality, with their policy, they've been wrong on everything," the PASOK leader added.

[11] Pupils at special education schools to get PCs

ATHENS, 3/10/2005 (ANA)

"The ministry is also funding programmes for the improvement of conditions of entry into the education system for people in special categories," Yiannakou told a conference on European policy to upgrade the quality of life for people with special needs.

The conference was arranged by the European parliament's socialist group and the main opposition Panhellenic Socialist Movement (PASOK).

Opening the session, PASOK eurodeputy Evangelia Tzambaxi, said that as a person with a handicap, she felt that the key to assistance was the provision of autonomy.

[12] Development Minister wraps up US tour, expresses confidence Greece is on right track

Development Minister Dimitris Sioufas told the ANA that he is confident that Greece is on the right track as he wrapped up his United States tour on Sunday.

"We are leaving with greater strength and confidence that we are implementing the right development strategy through the plan we've formulated for our country and the broader region, as well as for our position in Europe and in the world," Sioufas said.

On Saturday, the minister met with executives of major corporations, members of the Federation of Hellenic Societies of Greater New York and Archbishop of America Dimitrios.

Dimitrios said that the meeting provided the opportunity for the two to exchange views regarding cooperation, economic development and education.

Sioufas acknowledged the important role the Archdiocese plays among the Greek community and beyond.

He said that he and Dimitrios discussed ways to expand the role of the Church and Orthodoxy in order to further reinforce the Greek community in the US.

On Saturday evening, Sioufas inaugurated the Greek company's Mastic Spa new store in New York's Soho district.

"We visited Washington, Chicago and New York in order to promote issues related to our country's development," he said.

"All the meetings we had with government officials in Washington and with members of the Greek community, as well as with business executives and scientists who are active in the US, have given us more strength to go on with our plans for the future, for the country's development, confident that Greek companies possess all the prerequisites needed to win over even more markets," he added.

Sioufas departs for Athens on Sunday.

[13] Greece to become energy hub through key projects

NEW YORK, 3/10/2005 (ANA/P Panayiotou)

"Greece is becoming an international energy hub. Its geopolitical role will be enhanced even more. Additional incentives are being created for new investments," Sioufas told the Hellenic-American Chamber of Commerce at the Harvard Club in New York.

"Also further reinforced are the foundations of peace and stability in the entire region," the minister said during a visit to the USA.

On October 25, 14 southeastern European countries will sign a charter in Athens that will form the base of a single regional energy market linked to European Union networks.

Another key project in Greece's move to the forefront in energy is a pipeline due for construction that will carry Russian oil through Bulgaria to northern Greece, acting as a supplementary route for the transportation of Black Sea oil to markets in Western Europe and the USA. A political pact has been signed for the project by the three governments involved, Sioufas recalled.

Two other key works are an undersea natural gas pipeline linking Greece and Italy that will also act as an extension of a Nat gas link between Greece and Turkey, taking the fuel into the heart of Europe, the minister noted.

"This is backed by the European Union as a priority project, as well as by the Greek and Italian governments, which have signed a protocol for the work," he said.

Construction of the pipeline with Turkey was launched in early July by the prime ministers of the two countries.

"Greece, due to its geopolitical location, is the gateway to Europe for countries in the eastern Mediterranean, the Middle East, Asia and North Africa," the minister said.

"We are not waiting around. We are moving ahead rapidly with clear-cut and worthy goals to make up for lost time," he added.

Finally, the minister repeated his call for investment in Greece, noting the work being undertaken to improve competitiveness.

[14] Gov't sets priority on publicity for farm exports

ATHENS, 3/10/2005 (ANA)

Working closely on the exports project with the Hellenic Exports Promotion Board (HEPO) were the ministries of finance, development, tourism development and agricultural development and foods, as well as sector trade groups, the minister told the end of a two-day conference on Greek food, beverages and gastronomy.

"Our aim is dynamic reinforcement of the performance of Greek food and beverages in large markets abroad," he noted.

Deputy Development Minister Yiannis Papathanasiou told the conference that imports accounted for about a third of consumption in the food and beverages sector.

"A decline in competitiveness, which is shown by the high penetration rate of imports in the Greek market, means that the food and beverages industry must reinforce an outward-looking trend," Papathanasiou noted.

According to Deputy Tourism Development Minister Anastasios Liaskos, a key objective was to publicize Greek cuisine and other domestic products abroad; focusing on tradition and quality; and the move was being made in conjunction with HEPO.

On the conference's first day, Finance Minister George Alogoskoufis had said that the government was trying to right a neglect of exports policy in the country's past through a concerted action plan that also made use of the National Exports Council and HEPO, which belongs to the finance ministry. Another move to aid exporters through a more competitive economy was a development law that had so far attracted many investment plans.

The conference on Greek food, beverages and gastronomy was held under the aegis of the finance ministry.

HEPO is due to announce its new business plan at Cologne's international food and beverages trade fair on October 7-13.

[15] Deputy FinMin inaugurates "Kavala 2005" exhibit

KAVALA, 3/10/2005 (ANA)

The Chamber's management thanked Folias for his contribution in ensuring Kavala's and Drama's inclusion in the Fourth Incentives Zone in accordance with the new development law.

In his brief address, Folias referred to the two prefectures' justified requests for inclusion as well as to the government's support following local authorities' documentation to back up the requests.

"When each one of us does what he or she is supposed to then the country makes progress," he said.

Folias also referred to the significant contribution the private sector has made in terms of Greek economic growth.

"It is private initiative that creates wealth, prosperity and growth," he said.

Regarding unemployment, Folias said that it is the result of limited business activity.

He called on local businesspeople to take advantage of the beneficial terms of the new development law and the incentives given to Kavala.

Chamber President Apostolos Mardyris thanked Finance Minister George Alogoskoufis and referred to the support measures available to local businesses through the government's programmes and initiatives.

He also referred to the infrastructure works that need to be done, primarily in Kavala's Industrial Zone and said that construction of the Industrial Park is moving at a satisfactory pace.

Mardyris also talked about steps taken recently in improving Kavala's economy but he also made particular reference to unemployment which has been a particularly acute problem for the prefecture over the past 15 years.

George Souflias, President of the SME trade organization EOMMEX, also gave a brief speech, conveying a message from Development Minister Dimitris Sioufas that the government and the ministry have already launched a programme aimed at boosting private initiative and the country's business environment.

Souflias noted that "Kavala 2005" is a unique institution that enables the business community of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace to promote its accomplishments.

The Chamber's executive board appointed Folias honorary board member.

The exhibit will run through October 6 with many business delegations from Balkan countries scheduled to visit.

[16] Gov't deplores assault on sports reporter

ATHENS, 3/10/2005 (ANA)

"I unreservedly condemn such acts, which jeopardize people's lives and that evidently aim at gagging freedom of the press," Deputy Culture Minister George Orfanos, whose portfolio covers sport, said in a statement.

Pericles Stellas was attacked on Friday as he left his office at Goal News in the northern port city of Thessaloniki. He sustained injuries to the head and jaw from a sharp instrument, police said.

[17] Migrant traffickers caught imprisoning, torturing workers

ATHENS, 3/10/2005 (ANA)

The workers, also Romanian, were held in two basement apartments, the police's anti-trafficking division said in a statement.

The traffickers allegedly pledged to find their compatriots laboring work at a daily wage of 35 euros in return for a fee of 500 euros to cover travel expenses to Greece.

On arrival, the migrants were charged another 800 euros, which was gathered by withholding the entirety of their pay. Although promised jobs for three months, the workers were fired after the sum had been covered, and new victims were shipped in, police said.

The perpetrators allegedly tortured some of the workers, threatening others with a pistol. Food given to the captives was subsistence level.

Police are continuing their enquiries working with Interpol.

[18] Problems caused by extreme weather conditions in northern Greece under control

THESSALLONIKI, 3/10/2005 (ANA)

According to the official, the fire brigade responded to the more than 70 calls for help it received from residents in the area whose homes or commercial property had flooded.

The situation in the northern port town of Kavala, where a central shopping centre was flooded, is also under control according to the official.

Overnight rains on Friday through Saturday also flooded country roads disrupting traffic in the region.

The bad weather is expected to taper off on Sunday according to the forecast of the National Meteorological Service (EMY).

[19] Hundreds participate in Athens run

ATHENS, 3/10/2005 (ANA)

Of those participating, five will be chosen as Olympic torchbearers for the 2006 Winter Games in Torino.

Participants ran a total three kilometers starting from the old Town Hall and finishing at Zappeion Megaro where prizes and gifts awaited them.

Attending the event were Deputy Mayor Nikos Apergis, Samsung executives, athletes and artists.

In a brief address, Apergis noted that the event is dedicated to the Olympic Movement and to the values which it represents - participation in sports, culture, friendship between nations and social contribution.

[20] Aegean Games begin at renovated stadium

SAMOS, 3/10/2005 (ANA)

More than 400 children will be participating in the games.

Deputy Culture Minister responsible for Sports George Orfanos inaugurated the stadium, whose renovation was conducted by the General Secretariat for Sports and cost � 1.5 million.

During his brief address, Orfanos said that "We are all happy when we are able to deliver a new sports venue."

He added that "It is these types of facilities that provide boys and girls with alternatives to channel their energy instead of the coffee houses, TV and computers that are currently available to them."

Orfanos said that the ministry had a good working relationship with the Ministry of the Aegean, the Hellenic Association of Amateur Athletics (SEGAS) and the Municipality of Karlovassi.

"Thus we acquired a new sports facility that can host athletes from Ikaria, Fournoi and nearby islands," he said.

Orfanos also announced the ministry's public investments programme which has allocated � 500 million for sports infrastructure in the country's provinces in order to narrow the gap that the Athens Olympics created between the capital and the regions.

Earlier on Sunday, Orfanos, Pavlidis, Samos Prefect Manolis Karlas, Mayor of Karlovassi Costas Karaminas and other local government officials met to discuss issues related to sports infrastructure.

[21] Cypriot FM to meet British counterpart

NICOSIA, 3/10/2005(CNA/ANA)

''We need assurances on how the Presidency will handle the matter,'' said Iacovou who left Cyprus Sunday to attend the extraordinary Foreign Ministers Council in a last attempt to complete Ankara's negotiating framework.

Noting that there is a negative climate for Turkey because of Ankara's reactions, Iacovou said that he is optimistic that nothing more would come up in Monday's meeting, except issues raised by Austria.

''I believe the issues that concern Cyprus have been secured,'' he added.

Commenting on reports that the British Presidency has pressured Cyprus to accept the removal of provisions in Turkey's negotiating framework pertaining to Cyprus, in return for the termination of Turkey's stance to veto the possible entry of Cyprus to international organizations, Iakovou indicated that the negotiating framework has been agreed by the EU 25 member-states.

Noting that Turkey advocates that it cannot accept the negotiating framework, Iakovou pointed out that ''some countries both within and outside the EU has urged Cyprus to assume a more constructive stance.''

''We and other states have said that it is impossible for the negotiating framework to change, since it is a document agreed by the 25 member-states,'' he added.

Asked if Straw's address on Monday will include references to Cyprus, the foreign minister explained that this address will be made by the President of the European Council of Ministers, adding that the Presidency should defend EU common positions.

Furthermore, in an interview with Turkish ''Referents'' Iacovou said that it is perfectly normal for Turkey to be able to join the European Union, adding that the impression that Turkish EU vision is faced with obstacles set by Cyprus is totally wrong.

''Cyprus has never set obstacles to Turkey's EU bid,'' the minister said, pointing out that many of the issues considered by Turkey as obstacles have been created by Ankara's stance.

He specifically indicated Ankara's ''uninvited and provocative'' declaration that Turkey issued after the signing of the Protocol expanding its Customs Union with the ten EU member-states, including the Republic of Cyprus.

In the unilateral declaration, Ankara said the signing of the protocol was not tantamount to recognition of the Republic of Cyprus.

[22] Cyprus marks 45 years of independence

NICOSIA, 3/10/2005(CNA/ANA)

President Tassos Papadopoulos took the salute, flanked by Defense Minister Kyriakos Mavronikolas and Greek National Defense Minister Spilios Spiliotopoulos, representing the Greek government.

In brief statements after the 45-minute long parade, President Papadopoulos said his objective is to establish peace in Cyprus through a functional and just political settlement.

''As long as this solution is delayed because of Turkey's intransigence or Turkish refusal to negotiate in a substantive manner, it is our duty and priority to strengthen our defenses,'' he added.

In this, he continued, Greece is a firm supporter and associate.

Welcoming warmly the presence of the Greek minister, Papadopoulos said this sends a message of encouragement, enthusiasm and satisfaction to Cypriot Hellenism.

''I wish to congratulate the National Guard leadership for the work it carries out. I express love, care and concern for those serving in the armed forces,'' he concluded.

The Greek minister congratulated all participants in Saturday's parade, noting they had displayed once more that ''Cyprus' defense and security is in very good hands.''

''Greece stands by Cyprus in its just battle for the reunification of the island through a viable, just and functional solution in line with the acquis communautaire and UN resolutions,'' he said.

He wished the 45-year-old Republic well and assured that Greece would continue to support its just struggle to achieve its goals.

Cyprus' defense minister said this month's annual military exercise of the National Guard, Nikiforos, is being prepared.

''The final decision is likely to be taken in the coming days,'' he said, when asked whether Nikiforos will in fact take place.

Responding to questions on the Greek military exercise Toxotis, which takes place in conjunction with Nikiforos, he said he was talking about this matter with his Greek counterpart and added that the respective foreign ministries are also discussing the issue.

The island's political leadership, top military brass, civil and religious leaders, representatives of the foreign diplomatic corps and thousands of people watched the military parade.

Participating in the parade were infantry, artillery and naval forces and members of the Greek military contingent stationed in Cyprus in accordance with the 1960 Treaty of Establishment of the Republic, the police, the fire brigade, the forestry and the civil defense services.

Commando units, naval forces and various branches of the Republic's armed forces also paraded.

The Cyprus Police band led the parade, before taking its place opposite the officials to play for the duration of the parade, which began with a T-80, followed by Milan missiles, the French AMX 30B2, the Russian TOMA BMP3, rocket launchers, Mistral anti-tank missiles, ASPIDE missile launchers and Exocet missiles as well as other components of the republic's armed forces.

A 21 gun-salute was fired at dawn and was repeated at sunset.

President Papadopoulos and First Lady Fotini hosted a reception for the public in the evening at the Presidential Palace. Earlier, President Papadopoulos received the congratulations of the diplomatic and consular corps.

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