Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English, 06-02-25

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

CONTENTS

[01] Prime Minister reviews government's achievements

[02] Political party reactions to PM's speech

[03] Lefteris Zagoritis elected ND Central Committee secretary

[04] Foreign ministry says COREPER decision on financial regulation for Turkish Cypriots positive development

[05] COREPER agrees on financial regulation for Turkish Cypriots

[06] PASOK party official praises COREPER decision on financial regulation for Turkish Cypriots

[07] Greece, China to systematize bilateral contacts, ministers decide in Athens talks

[08] Meeting at foreign ministry on sea link between Maronia-Samothraki with Turkish port

[09] Public awareness key regarding bird flu, European Commissioner, Greek health minister say

[10] PASOK party spokesman criticises absence of PM from Parliament

[11] Greek Police chief George Angelakos resigns

[12] Greece to chair OECD ministerial meeting in May

[13] Behrakis sworn in as new Mayor of Athens

[14] President Papoulias lays foundation stone for new EAB unit

[15] Halkidiki farmers end blockade of Thessaloniki-Moudania national highway

[16] UN figures show serious aging problem of Greek population

[17] EU: Women in Greece earn 10% less than men

[18] Farm import prices up 4.3 pct in December, yr/yr

[19] Greek real estate is potential 68.2 bln market

[20] Greek borrowers not threatened by rising interest rates, bankers say

[21] Gov't on measures for smaller firms

[22] Germans show interest in buying holiday homes in Greece

[23] Labor minister meets with Phosphate Fertilizers employees

[24] SIDMA to launch Balkan steel network

[25] Athens Bus Organisation to raise its fares from March 1

[26] Italian company holds conference on undersea electricity networks

[27] N. African dust covers sky over greater Athens

[28] Reps for CoE's 'Creating Cultural Capital' programme meet in Athens

[29] Six more swans test positive for bird flu virus

[30] Hellenic Aid check for Philippines mudslide victims

[31] Medecins du Monde participate in AIDS awareness campaign

[32] General Secretariat for Equality partners with Greek CSR network to promote gender equality

[33] Organising Committee for International Secondary School Sports Events convenes on Friday

[34] Conference on bioethics, bioterrorism and the mass media

[35] Archbishop Christodoulos addresses conference organized by Greek Ultrasound Society for Obstetrics and Gynaecology

[36] Scholars of the Theological Boarding House to visit the Vatican

[37] Two more wanted for 'men in black' robbery in Athens

[38] Members of car stealing ring arrested in Ioannina

[39] Fire bombings target banks, diplomat's cars

[40] Fire causes extensive damage to bank, arson suspected

[41] Illegal immigrants detained at Didymoteicho border post

[42] Cypriot government welcomes decoupling of regulations

[43] Cyprus says Turkey showing real face to EU

[44] Cyprus says Turkey must explain ship incident to EU

[45] Cypriot president preparing for meeting with UN chief

[46] Central Bank Governor says Eurozone aim remains unchanged

[01] Prime Minister reviews government's achievements

ATHENS, 25/12/2006 (ANA)

"We fully respect and defend the rights and interests of all the citizens but the demands of one individual, however just, cannot be fought for in a way that creates risk for the lives or property of others, it cannot be demanded in ways that harm the interests of other, usually much larger, social groups," Karamanlis said.

This applied even more when sensitive sectors such as health, tourism, agriculture and the supply of remote areas were affected, he added.

The principles of democracy and legality, politics and social responsibility require that responsible leadership should - with respect for the Constitution and the laws - protect the interests of all the citizens, the premier said.

Thursday marked the end of a nearly week-long strike by the seamen's federation PNO, cut short by a controversial government mobilization order that obliged seamen to return to work. Some quarters questioned the legality of the move to end the strike, which had cut off communications to the many hundred Greek islands but was backed by the courts, saying that laws allowing the order had been rescinded a few years ago.

Referring to the government's work to date, Karamanlis said it had handled foreign policy issues with absolute success, had provided solutions to long-term problems for large sections of the population and had taken several important steps toward refounding the state, as well as creating a firm foundation for dynamic development and economic growth.

He also noted that the public deficit was being reduced in the most gradual way possible, with growth rates remaining above the EU average and a trend for rising unemployment curbed, while exports had surged, tourism was constantly rising and there was a recovery in private investments, both Greek and foreign.

Referring to the government's plans for the future, the prime minister outlined six main directions.

- A strategy for changes and reforms in all sectors, including the state, the economy, education and health.

- A strategy that will lead to refounding the state, in order to create an efficient and responsible state in the service of citizens.

- A strategy to establish a strong economy that created opportunities.

- A foreign policy that sought peace, cooperation and growth, full normalization of relations between Greece and Turkey and a solution to the Cyprus problem through a functional and viable solution.

- A strategy to establish a modern social centre in politics, seeking dialogue, understanding and cooperation with all political forces, with all productive groups and all the social partners.

- A strategy based on clearly defined relations between the party, the state, government and society.

Regarding the role of the party, in particular, Karamanlis stressed that this should engage in continual dialogue with citizens. It should support the government in implementing the party's programme but not blur the distinctions between party and state.

The Central Committee was next addressed by Meimarakis, in his last address as Central Committee secretary, who said the party had succeeded in creating bonds between its grassroots and society, which led to the broad social alliance that brought ND to power. ND politically supported the government and its reforms, informed the citizens, listened to society and conveyed its views to the government, he added.

Meimarakis also stressed that the government should on no account slow down the rate of changes and reforms through fear of the political cost in view of the upcoming local government elections.

The election process, in which the Central Committee will choose between the two candidates Lefteris Zagoritis and Katerina Papacostas, began at 11:00 and will end at around 14:30. A request by Papacostas for the two candidates to address the Committee before the vote was rejected as not foreseen under party regulations.

[02] Political party reactions to PM's speech

ATHENS, 25/12/2006 (ANA)

"Today, Mr. Karamanlis again played the same old tape. He read the same speech that he has brought out after his party's programme manifesto and onward. Every point in this speech is a lie but the fine, big words that Karamanlis recycles without a trace of self-criticism cannot hide the hypocrisy, the authoritarianism of his government," Athanassakis stressed.

The citizens were more interested in policies of the government, which was "conservative, right-wing, hiding its face behind fair words while it acted against the many and favored the few, decreased the country's prestige and increased uncertainty and insecurity for all," he added.

Responding to Athanassakis later on Friday, government spokesman Theodoros Roussopoulos replied that voters were able to understand who has "vision, strategy, an organized plan for progressing toward the future" and which side was able to "guarantee a better prospect for all".

"Greeks also know who is attempting to cover up their political poverty behind rising tension and polarization. Who, through denying every change and reform, wish to turn the country back to the past. Who, when they talk about the future, are thinking about their own petty party-political interests, rather than the interests of the country and its citizens," he said.

The Communist Party of Greece (KKE) commented on parts of the premier's speech referring to the government's obligation to take action in the face of "violence and excesses" and its response to striking seamen.

According to KKE, the 'excesses' referred to were not the just struggle and forms of fighting those workers had a right to choose.

"Excesses are the provocative profits of industrialists, of bankers, of ship-owners, of big traders, whose interests ND serves," a KKE announcement said.

Coalition of the Left, Movements and Ecology Political Bureau member Panayiotis Lafazanis commented on the address made by Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis at his ruling New Democracy party's Central Committee on Friday, saying that he was trying to beautify the government's course.

"Mr. Karamanlis, with his address today, tried to beautify the government's course. However, anti-labor options, civil mobilizations and police repression cannot be covered by make-up, nor can they be provided for bipartisan fictitious struggles. These policies can only be overturned and changed with the strength of working people's great unifying struggles," Lafazanis said.

[03] Lefteris Zagoritis elected ND Central Committee secretary

ATHENS, 25/12/2006 (ANA)

Zagoritis had a landslide victory over rival candidate Katerina Papacostas, receiving 402 out of 507 votes cast, from a total of 559 central committee members who were eligible to vote.

Papacosta received 70 votes, while 35 votes were blank or spoiled.

Commenting on his election, Zagoritis said Friday's process highlighted New Democracy as the foremost democratic party in the country, one with values, principles and positions, while stressing that the party will work to support the policies of Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis.

Zagoritis was first elected an MP for Athens in 2004 with New Democracy. He was one of the founding members of the New Democracy youth party ONNED and the student party DAP-NDFK, as well as publisher of the paper "Democratiki Protoporia".

A member of the board and vice-president of the Athens Bar Association, he became a member of ND's Executive Committee in 1994 and secretary of the party's organizational and trade union organs, as well as a member of the interior, justice and public order sectors. He was also elected a member of ND's Central Committee and Political Council.

He is married and has two children.

[04] Foreign ministry says COREPER decision on financial regulation for Turkish Cypriots positive development

ATHENS, 25/12/2006 (ANA)

By this decision, which according to Koumoutsakos is expected to be finalized by the Council of Foreign Ministers on Monday, "a correct solution is given to the longstanding pending issue of the funding Regulation with its separation from the issue of trade with the Turkish Cypriot community."

The foreign ministry spokesman said that "Greece steadfastly supports the economic development of the Turkish Cypriot community under the self-evident precondition that the ways and means for this economic development must be in accordance with the United Nation's relevant decisions and resolutions on the issue of Cyprus and contribute to the effort for the reunification of Cyprus."

Koumoutsakos further said that "today's development constitutes tangible proof of the constructive stance of the government of Cyprus which contributes to the implementation of the Conclusions of the Council of April 26, 2004, with which 'facilitating the reunification of the island with economic integration and the improvement of contacts between the two communities in Cyprus' was pursued."

Lastly, Koumoutsakos underlined the "decisive contribution of the Austrian Presidency towards achieving the lifting of the deadlock, for which previous Presidencies have also worked, particularly that of Luxembourg."

[05] COREPER agrees on financial regulation for Turkish Cypriots

BRUSSELS, 25/12/2006 (ANA-MPA/V. Demiris/CNA)

Friday's agreement will be sent to the General Affairs Council, to convene on Monday. It will be approved as a Point A without detailed discussion.

With the decision, the demands of the Republic of Cyprus are met, namely the decoupling of the two regulations and changing the legal basis for the direct trade regulation, which now comes under protocol 10, meaning that for approval there must be consensus and that Famagusta port opens under European Commission administration, Varosha is opened for resettlement by its legal inhabitants, and there is a moratorium on the further development of Greek Cypriot properties in the occupied areas.

Cyprus' Permanent Representative to the EU Ambassador Nicos Emiliou described the decision as ''the first result of the visit by President Tassos Papadopoulos to Vienna and the meetings he had with the Austrian presidency of the EU.''

Greece's Permanent Representative Vassilis Kaskarellis also expressed his satisfaction over the decision.

Emiliou pointed out that the decision was positive for the Turkish Cypriots, as it released the amount of 139 million euros.

The initial amount was 259 million euros, of which 120 million were lost as the date up to which it could be allocated had expired, but the need to allot this latter amount soon, was noted.

The direct trade regulation will be sent for further discussions with the changes agreed on unanimously by the 25 member states.

The European Commission welcomed Friday's's decision but will be awaiting the approval from the General Affairs Council on Monday before making an official statement.

[06] PASOK party official praises COREPER decision on financial regulation for Turkish Cypriots

ATHENS, 25/12/2006 (ANA)

"This agreement, which confirms the constructive stance of the Republic of Cyprus, constitutes a substantive step towards a new period of cooperation between Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots," he said.

Papoutsis added that he hoped the agreement will contribute substantively to efforts to solve the political problem and the reunification of Cyprus for the benefit of all its citizens in a common European future.

[07] Greece, China to systematize bilateral contacts, ministers decide in Athens talks

ATHENS, 25/12/2006 (ANA)

Gao pledged to help towards facilitation of the procedures for the import of Greek fresh produce (kiwis and apples) to China, which currently requires time-consumer paperwork, and called on Greece to back China's application for being granted "Market Economy Status" by the European Union.

Stylianidis replied that Greece supports China's petition, adding that this would facilitate Chinese exports, some of which (i.e. shoes) were currently at risk of facing EU anti-dumping measures.

The EU is currently investigating whether a surge in imports of Chinese and Vietnamese shoes was due to dumping -- selling a product for export at below its normal value so as to grab a market share by unfairly undercutting competitors or because of illegal state aid, and anti-dumping measures could include the imposition of customs duties -- anticipated at around 20 percent on the import price of the merchandise.

Stylianidis rather proposed, in the transition period, the creation of joint ventures with Greek and Chinese capital for completion of the manufacture of Chinese products, in Greece. Such a process, combined with a hook-up of Greek and Chinese ports and the cooperation between the two countries' standardization bodies "will aid Chinese exports and also protect your competitiveness", the Greek minister said, addressing Gao, adding that Greece, too, would benefit from the added value.

The two sides agreed to proceed in collaborations for materialization of the protocol on cooperation in SMEs signed by Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis during his recent visit to China.

They further agreed that the general directors of their respective ministries should meet twice yearly to prepare the groundwork and advance the topics ahead of the Mixed Inter-ministerial Committee meetings, and set the first meeting for October this year.

Stylianidis expressed satisfaction with the progress in bilateral relations following Karamanlis' trip to China, adding that the guarantee for achieving the targets was "the deep roots of our civilizations, mutual regard and mutual respect".

[08] Meeting at foreign ministry on sea link between Maronia-Samothraki with Turkish port

ATHENS, 25/12/2006 (ANA)

The purpose of the meeting was the coordination of agencies involved in light of the beginning of negotiations in Istanbul between the general directors of the foreign ministries of Greece and Turkey next week. The agencies will complete their proposals as soon as possible for the implementation of the plan.

The sea link of Maronia and of Samothraki with a port on continental Turkey (probably Canakkale) and with Imvros is a decision by the latest Joint Interministerial Committee of Greece and Turkey.

[09] Public awareness key regarding bird flu, European Commissioner, Greek health minister say

VIENNA, 25/12/2006 (ANA-MPA/D. Dimitrakoudis)

Speaking to the ANA-MPA, Kyprianou said that the EU's goal is to inform citizens that there is no cause for panic. Legislation is in place, as are measures which are being implemented he said.

The bird flu virus concerns poultry and is not a human illness, Kyprianou stressed, adding that efforts are being made to protect poultry.

Representing Greece at the meeting, Avramopoulos said that the country has handled the bird flu virus threat, responsibly, transparently and with the seriousness it deserves.

He proposed that a common communication policy within the EU and in cooperation with the countries present at Friday's meeting be adopted, a proposal which according to Kyprianou was well received and will be examined by the Commission.

Avramopoulos said that it is important for EU citizens to realize that member states and EU agencies are handling the problem responsibly.

He echoed Kyprianou's statements that people's health is not at risk at present, that the necessary measures have been implemented and that "we are ready to deal with this situation."

The Greek minister also noted that the message resulting from Friday's informal ministerial meeting is one of confidence, safety and calmness "so that we can go on living without the psychological consequences created by a sense of panic that seems to be increasingly intensifying."

In summing up, Avramopoulos said that the EU public must be informed as regards to the current status of the situation in order to dissipate any sense of panic and for everyone to return to their normal way of life and activities without the disruption of countries' basic economic sectors.

Finally, he praised the Austrian EU presidency for calling the emergency informal meeting.

[10] PASOK party spokesman criticises absence of PM from Parliament

ATHENS, 25/12/2006 (ANA)

"Nobody from the government wants to reply on its so-called first great reform. The prime minister does not feel the need to support his, supposedly first great, reform which is currently facing specific problems at the European Commission," Athanassakis said.

The PASOK party spokesman also said that during the two years of the country's governance by the New Democracy party, the prime minister "has gone once to the 'Prime minister's hour'" in Parliament.

[11] Greek Police chief George Angelakos resigns

ATHENS, 25/12/2006 (ANA)

It was officially revealed by the public order ministry that the minister and the chief talked in a friendly climate and that Polydoras accepted the resignation of Angelakos, telling him that "the successful also leave" and that his term at the post of chief had been excellent.

Angelakos will be submitting his resignation to the minister in writing on Saturday, after an event to be held at the public order ministry that will include the unveiling of a monument built in honor of policemen killed in the line of duty.

Angelakos will be remaining at the post of chief formally until Tuesday, but he will be on regular leave. The Government Foreign Affairs and Defense Council (KYSEA) will be convening on Tuesday to select the new Greek Police chief.

[12] Greece to chair OECD ministerial meeting in May

STRASBOURG, 25/12/2006 (ANA/O Tsipira)

The topic was agreed on Friday at a meeting of Finance Minister George Alogoskoufis and the international organization's secretary general, Donald Johnston.

Alogoskoufis told reporters that the OECD's half-yearly report would be presented, to be followed by debate on global growth and the balance of payments; reform needed to spur growth and employment; and international trade.

In addition, Johnston would resign, to be replaced by Angel Gurria of Mexico.

"Chairing an annual meeting of the OECD is major publicity as it is a great opportunity for a country to advance its viewpoints," the minister noted.

The host country for OECD meetings is decided by the organization's board. No rotation system exists.

"Chairing the meeting is a major success for Greece," Alogoskoufis said.

[13] Behrakis sworn in as new Mayor of Athens

ATHENS, 25/12/2006 (ANA)

Municipal councilor Behrakis was elected as the new Mayor on Thursday, during a vote held within the municipal council. The new mayor belongs to the same New Democracy- affiliated party that originally won the municipal elections, with former Mayor Bakoyannis heading the ticket.

Behrakis received 14 of the 25 votes and his opponent Angelos Moschonas received 10, while one blank ballot was also cast. A third candidate withdrew from the race shortly before the voting began.

The vote was held after the elected mayor Dora Bakoyannis resigned her post in order to join the government as foreign minister, during a recent cabinet reshuffle.

Behrakis will hold the mayor's post until the next municipal elections in October this year, when he has made it clear that he will step down and not seek re-election, making way for New Democracy's chosen candidate Nikitas Kaklamanis, the highly popular former health minister.

The swearing-in ceremony was attended by Bakoyannis, who said that she felt comfortable in the knowledge that she was leaving in Athens in good hands.

On his part, Behrakis said that the Athens municipal council should continue its "exemplary work" of the past three years, undeterred by the fact that it was entering a pre-election period.

[14] President Papoulias lays foundation stone for new EAB unit

ATHENS, 25/12/2006 (ANA)

The new unit will construct cutting-edge technology aircraft parts made of complex synthetic materials, such as carbon fibers, glass-fiber and others.

These materials have today replaced metallic components in modern fighter aircraft for up to 60 per cent of the structural weight, while in civilian aircraft this percentage is nearing 50 percent.

The facilities in which the new unit will be housed will be constructed by Aktor (a contractor for Eurocopter), while the total cost of the investment (including production equipment, transfer of know-how, technical support and training for EAB staff) will be more than � 34 million.

It is covered by the company Nato Helicopters Industry, in which participants are Eurocopter, Agusta and Fokker, and forms part of the offset benefits agreement signed by the defense ministry as part of the agreement for the purchase of the new transport helicopters NH-90.

The new unit is scheduled to go into operation in the second half of 2007, while EAB will construct structural parts for the NH-90 and EC-135 helicopters for a period of seven years for Eurocopter and Agusta. The manufacturing burden for EAB will be � 15 million, while it will also have the option to participate in programmes for the new passenger planes Airbus and A-350 Boeing 787.

[15] Halkidiki farmers end blockade of Thessaloniki-Moudania national highway

THESSALONIKI, 25/12/2006 (ANA)

The farmers from the prefecture of Halkidiki, Macedonia, had been protesting over the fines imposed on them by the Public Power Corporation (PPC) for excessive consumption of electricity.

The farmers were fined between 3,000 and 5,000 euros after an inspection by the corporation in 2003 revealed excessive consumption of energy.

The farmers claimed that DEH proceeded in 2004 in a change of the status of reduced charges, without informing them.

This is the reason why the farmers proceeded in restraining order against the PPC, which will be examined for 26 persons at a court in Polygyros on Monday and for the other 21 people on March 13.

On its part, the PPC refers to a reduction of its demands by 50 per cent and the paying off in 24 installments, while the farmers are asking for the annulment of their debts.

[16] UN figures show serious aging problem of Greek population

ATHENS, 25/12/2006 (ANA)

Currently, the percentage of the Greek population over the age of 60 is 24 percent, while the 2050 forecast dramatically raises the figure to 41 percent.

On a global level, the UN estimates the number of seniors today around the world at 629 million, while the 2050 estimate is two billion.

The figures were announced ahead of the 6th conference of the Northern Greece Geriatrics and Gerontology Society, which will take place between March 1 and 3 in Thessaloniki.

[17] EU: Women in Greece earn 10% less than men

BRUSSELS, 25/12/2006 (ANA/V Demiris)

In the EU-25 overall, the gap is 15%, the report on each member state said.

In Greece, the differential in gross hourly wage for women fell from 13% in 1999 to 10% in 2004, remaining flat in 2006.

The Commission's annual report presented an overview of the main developments in gender equality in the bloc in 2005.

[18] Farm import prices up 4.3 pct in December, yr/yr

ATHENS, 25/12/2006 (ANA)

NSS, in its monthly report, said farm export prices rose 3.4 percent over the same period.

The 4.3 pct increase in farm import prices in December reflected an 11.1 pct rise in equipment and supplies, a 15.3 pct increase in energy and lubricants, and a 6.2 pct rise in fertilizers.

The 3.4 pct increase in farm export prices in December reflected a 45.2 pct jump in olive oil prices, a 2.1 pct rise in livestock prices, and a 29.1 pct jump in potato prices.

[19] Greek real estate is potential 68.2 bln market

ATHENS, 25/12/2006 (ANA)

According to Epaminondas Panas, head of statistics at the Athens Economic University, the market signals investment opportunities from home and abroad.

[20] Greek borrowers not threatened by rising interest rates, bankers say

ATHENS, 25/12/2006 (ANA)

Filaretos said 51.6 pct of Greek households have not signed any borrowing contract with banks, while he stressed that domestic banks were very careful in approving loans.

Melina Mouzourakis, a legal adviser of the consumer union EKPOIZO, however, said Greek households are already overdebted and warned it could develop into a crisis in the next few years. Rising interest rates in the Eurozone would be a further blow to borrowers, Mouzourakis said, adding that domestic banks' interest rates are already higher compared with the EU.

Udo Reifner, a professor at the University of Hamburg and head of the Institute of Financial Research, said that with unemployment rate at around 9.0 percent in Greece, 30 percent of the country's population could face difficulties in servicing their debts in the medium- to long-term period, a prospect that banks should consider before adjusting their products and pricing policies.

Finally, Christos Gortsos, secretary-general of the Bank Association of Greece, said there was no danger of negative consequences from rising European interest rates to Greek consumers, since a stricter monetary policy was already discounted by the market.

[21] Gov't on measures for smaller firms

ATHENS, 25/12/2006 (ANA)

Folias was referring to a third round of funding for manufacturing and tourism firms under the EU programme.

He was addressing the Hellenic-American Chamber of Commerce in Thessaloniki.

Separately, Development Minister Dimitris Sioufas, announced the outcome of a programme to support very small service sector firms.

Submitted were 6,578 applications worth 219.4 million euros. Of the total, 2,588 plans were approved, worth 169.9 million euros, Sioufas said.

In parliament, Sioufas and his deputy, Yiannis Papathanasiou defended the government's record on measures for smaller firms, replying to a question tabled by the main opposition PASOK party on sector retail firms.

Papathanasiou reported that the rate of increase of retail sales in 2005 was 3.5%.

In addition, funded were 3589 manufacturing and tourism investment plans at public expense of 225 million euros.

In November 2005, turnover for general trade improved by 5.1% and the employment index in the third quarter of 2005 rose by 2.4% versus a year earlier, Papathanasiou said.

[22] Germans show interest in buying holiday homes in Greece

ATHENS, 25/12/2006 (ANA)

According to the president of the German-Greek Union for the Protection of Real Estate Owners, Dimitrios Kouros, who on Friday addressed the Real Estate-New Era conference which is being held in Thessaloniki, Macedonia, within the framework of the 23rd INFACOMA, the many islands and the countless beaches offer thousands of expanse with a view of the sea and render Greece "a hidden ace", an appealing country for the buying of a holiday home, at a moment when the prices in Spain for a corresponding investment range between 3,500-7,000 euros per square meter.

Kouros said the basic criteria which Germans set to by a holiday home in Greece, are sunshine, view of the sea, the size of the house which should not be less than 120 square meters, easy access during the summer and winter and the infrastructures around the home but also in the broader region.

If the home fulfils all the specifications, Kouros said the buyers are prepared to invest between 2,500 and 5,000 euros per square meter.

[23] Labor minister meets with Phosphate Fertilizers employees

THESSALONIKI, 25/12/2006 (ANA)

Tsitouridis assured employees that he will hold a meeting with the company's management and Macedonia-Thrace Minister Yiorgos Kalantzis and any other entities involved in upcoming days to discuss the company's future course.

Kalantzis, also present at the meeting, said that the government would do its best to ensure that no job is lost and to address the problem.

[24] SIDMA to launch Balkan steel network

ATHENS, 25/12/2006 (ANA)

Benardout said the company had forged a strategic alliance for the project in the two countries with Packer Plada of Israel, a member of the Africa-Israel multinational group.

[25] Athens Bus Organisation to raise its fares from March 1

ATHENS, 25/12/2006 (ANA)

From March 1, the fare for bus and electric-bus in Athens will rise to 0.50 euros from 0.40 euros currently, while single fares for the Athens Metro's line 1 will rise to 0.70 euros and for the lines 2 and 3 to 0.80 euros. Tram and Suburban Railway fares will be unchanged, as well as all daily, weekly and monthly fares.

[26] Italian company holds conference on undersea electricity networks

ATHENS, 25/12/2006 (ANA)

The presentation was attended by senior officials of Prysmian from Italy, the chief of the Trade and Economy office of the Italian embassy in Athens Francesco Capecchi and development ministry representatives.

Prysmian Cavi e Sistemi Energia, through its exclusive representative in Greece Powertec EPE, intends to make its successful presence in Greece, lasting for decades, even stronger.

The company wants to contribute to the study of reliable electricity networks that will respect the environment and will be in a position to satisfy ever-increasing needs in the energy sector.

[27] N. African dust covers sky over greater Athens

ATHENS, 25/12/2006 (ANA)

Air quality in Athens, meanwhile, was absolutely dreary at daybreak and throughout the day, as a thick cloud of dust blanketed the area, the result of rare, for the season, southerly winds blowing in from North Africa.

[28] Reps for CoE's 'Creating Cultural Capital' programme meet in Athens

ATHENS, 25/12/2006 (ANA)

[29] Six more swans test positive for bird flu virus

THESSALONIKI, 25/12/2006 (ANA)

Two positive samples came from dead swans found in Xanthi, three from the Evros delta and one from the prefecture of Imathia.

All six samples have been sent to the Community Reference Laboratory (CRL) in London for further tests to see if they belong to the deadly H5N1 strain of the virus that can also be transmitted to humans.

Meanwhile, the customary precautionary measures have been imposed for the areas where the dead swans were found.

[30] Hellenic Aid check for Philippines mudslide victims

ATHENS, 25/12/2006 (ANA)

In presenting the check, Deputy Foreign Minister Evripidis Stylianidis also expressed Athens' and the Greek people's compassion for the victims and their families.

[31] Medecins du Monde participate in AIDS awareness campaign

ATHENS, 25/12/2006 (ANA)

The goal of the campaign is to raise funds for the orphanage Hellas in Ivory Coast, the non-profit organization Zoi and the UN programme UNAIDS.

The campaign will include a poster exhibit, featuring posters designed over the past 25 years and dealing with the AIDS theme. It will run in Thessaloniki from Saturday until March 5 and in Athens from March 3 until March 12.

Also within the context of the campaign, Salif Keita will be performing in Athens and Thessaloniki, while a televised marathon will be broadcast on Mega Channel on February 28.

[32] General Secretariat for Equality partners with Greek CSR network to promote gender equality

ATHENS, 25/12/2006 (ANA)

"The promotion of equal opportunities for men and women is a significant productivity factor and a tool for creating jobs, sustainable development and competitiveness of national economies," Secretary General for Equality Evgenia Tsoumani said during the event that was held at the offices of the Federation of Greek Industries (SEB) in Athens.

On his part, Nikos Analytis, President of the Greek Network for CSR, noted that creating equal opportunities for both sexes is not just a matter of moral and social sensitivity but an issue with very important economic dimensions.

"It goes without saying that progress and development in today's reality cannot be achieved if we continue to passively accept social stereotypes and allow half of our population - which today possesses if not superior, certainly equally valuable knowledge, skills, talent and the desire to contribute dynamically to the economy and society - to remain on the sidelines of economic activity," he said.

During the signing ceremony, two corporate members of the Greek Network presented their practices for promoting gender equality.

Within the context of the two entities' cooperation, the General Secretariat announced that it will reward annually those corporate members of the network which implement policies and practices in accordance with the memorandum's content.

Additionally, the Secretariat will also establish an "Equality Award" to be given to a company which distinguishes itself for promoting gender equality.

[33] Organising Committee for International Secondary School Sports Events convenes on Friday

ATHENS, 25/12/2006 (ANA)

The meeting was attended by Education Minister Marietta Yiannakou, Deputy Culture Minister responsible for sport George Orfanos and Deputy Education Minister George Kalos.

The structure of organizing and the selection of manpower, which will staff various departments, was ratified during the meeting. George Gourdouvelis was appointed organizing director and Athanassios Vassiliadis technical director.

A total of 45 countries have declared their participation in the events so far. The figure is expected to increase by March 10 when the time limit for declaring participation will end.

Apart from European countries, the countries which have declared participation include China, Korea, India, Taiwan, Brazil, Argentina and the United States.

[34] Conference on bioethics, bioterrorism and the mass media

ATHENS, 25/12/2006 (ANA)

Questions raised during the conference were whether biotechno-logy and biogenetics create fear of mistaken use and irreversible results. The role of the artist who uses these sciences in understanding or "undermining" or overturning their achievements was also examined.

Special reference was made of the case of Steven Gerch, a professor of Modern Art at Bufallo University, who had been accused of bioterrorism, since the FBI found a laboratory in his home in 2004 in which he was experimenting on digital works of art, using biotechnology and exercising criticism of the policy of the U.S. government.

[35] Archbishop Christodoulos addresses conference organized by Greek Ultrasound Society for Obstetrics and Gynaecology

ATHENS, 25/12/2006 (ANA)

Archbishop Christodoulos said the termination of pregnancy is the termination of life and pointed out that the Christian moral conception of life and death differs from so-called "social ethics."

"The Orthodox Church always promoted respect for the uniqueness of God Creator and the priceless value of the human image as an absolute assessment and moral criterion for every cultural reality," he said.

Archbishop Christodoulos added that according to the principle that the human image dominates modern culture, "it is necessary that the aim of research and of the implementation of pregenital control must not be determined or limited to the search for useful purposes or scientific ones."

He also referred to the bad use of new genetics methods, saying that "the problem might appear to be a philosophical one and, therefore, one without practical implications, but it is basic that one should give a reply to the question of what the nature of this knowledge can or must be. In other words, the problem is set at its base and at its beginning. Namely, if this knowledge can ultimately determine the spiritual substance of man, moving it from the level of Divine origin to a mechanistic conception."

[36] Scholars of the Theological Boarding House to visit the Vatican

ROME, 25/12/2006 (ANA)

It is the first visit of this kind to the seat of the Roman Catholic Church and the mission will be comprised of thirty students of the Theological Boarding House who will be accompanied by the director of the Apostolic Ministration, Bishop of Phanar Agathangelos.

[37] Two more wanted for 'men in black' robbery in Athens

ATHENS, 25/12/2006 (ANA)

The warrants issued on Friday are for Grigorios Tsironis, 28, and Marios Seisidis, 25, who are being sought by police as members of the five-member gang. Arrest warrants were also issued about a month ago for 30-year-old Simeon Seisidis - the elder brother of Marios Seisidis - and Giannis Dimitrakis, the 28-year-old that was injured and caught in an exchange of fire with police during the chase.

Meanwhile, the public prosecutor in charge of the case has also pressed additional charges for repeated counts of joint robbery, forming a criminal organization (based on the anti-terrorist law), repeated counts of attempted homicide, legalizing income from illegal activities, illegal weapons possession and weapons use.

The file, containing the new charges and all the evidence collected by police so far, has now been forwarded to a magistrate, who will launch the main inquiry into the case. The new evidence also formed the basis for the latest arrest warrants.

Police have appealed to the public to come forward with any information regarding the wanted men, urging them to call the police emergency number 100, while descriptions and photographs have been released to the press.

Authorities say that the evidence uncovered during the investigation indicates that Dimitrakis - currently being held in Korydallos prison - and the three wanted men, along with a fifth man whose identity remains unknown, had formed a gang over the past three years. In that time they had carried out six armed robberies in banks throughout Attica, in addition to the robbery at the National Bank of Greece in Solonos Road on January 16, coming away with an estimated total loot of � 739,028.

[38] Members of car stealing ring arrested in Ioannina

IOANNINA, 25/12/2006 (ANA)

Of the 13 suspects, all of them Ioannina residents, seven owned auto mechanic shops, where the stolen cars would be transferred, their identification numbers altered and then sold in the price range of � 10,000-� 15,000. All stolen cars were BMW and Mercedes.

The ring's liaisons were two Greek nationals living abroad, one of which has been arrested in the past on drug and other charges.

The group was primarily active in Germany, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands and other countries members of the Schengen Treaty.

[39] Fire bombings target banks, diplomat's cars

THESSALONIKI, 25/12/2006 (ANA)

Three vehicles, a bank branch and a local office of ruling New Democracy were the target of firebombs in Thessaloniki, with two out of the three vehicles sporting diplomatic license plates.

According to authorities, the cars belonged to a Swedish national employed at the Thessaloniki-based European Union agency for Balkan reconstruction.

Meanwhile, in Athens, unknown suspects thoroughly torched a National Bank branch in the Gyzi district.

All of the attacks are believed to be the work of self-styled youthful anarchists and anti-state militants.

[40] Fire causes extensive damage to bank, arson suspected

ATHENS, 25/12/2006 (ANA)

The fire broke out at 2:30 a.m. and spread quickly; causing extensive damage to the bank and to three cars parked outside before a 14-member strong team of firefighters with 6 fire engines were able to extinguish the blaze.

Security police and the Fire Department's forensics team were investigating the fire.

Police investigating the incident told ANA they believed that unidentified persons broke the bank's glass front and set fire, using inflammable liquid, but no evidence of arson or other causes of the fire ha yet been found.

[41] Illegal immigrants detained at Didymoteicho border post

ALEXANDROUPOLI, 25/12/2006 (ANA)

The illegal immigrants, mostly Somali and Palestinian aged 20 to 40, were taken before the Orestiada public prosecutor.

Also arrested was the truck's owner, while the driver was being sought.

[42] Cypriot government welcomes decoupling of regulations

NICOSIA, 25/12/2006 (CNA/ANA-MPA)

Spokesman George Lillikas said the government considers the adoption of the financial regulation "as an important step and expresses its commitment to contribute in a more practical and effective manner in the implementation of today's decisions."

"Today's adoption of the financial regulation opens the road to make available to the Turkish Cypriot community the remaining 139 million Euro since the remaining funds were lost" because the regulation was not adopted by December 2005 "for the reasons that we all know," said Lillikas.

The initial amount was 259 million euros, of which 120 million were lost as the date up to which it could be allocated had expired.

The Cypriot spokesman reminded that the Cypriot government had proposed on April 26, 2004 that the 259 million euros for 2004-2006, destined for the Turkish Cypriots in the event of a Cyprus settlement, should be made available to them.

The spokesman thanked the Austrian presidency "for its efforts as well as all of Cyprus' EU partners that supported the Austrian proposal."

Lillikas said that Friday's decision, which will be made final when it is sent to the General Affairs Council, to convene on Monday and to be approved as a Point A without discussion "includes and a commitment to continue deliberations and the work required to promote the conclusions of the April 26, 2004 Council that aim to ease the island's reunification with its economic completion and to improve contacts between the two communities on the island."

He said that with Friday's decision "it is also agreed to continue the discussion aiming to reach an agreement on all the issues that constituted the basis of negotiations that took place under the

Luxembourg Presidency's initiative and which culminated in June 2005."

The spokesman reminded that those negotiations covered issues such as the return of Varosha for resettlement by its legal inhabitants, the movement of goods to the EU through Famagusta port which will be under the Commission's administration, an end to the illegal exploitation of Greek Cypriot properties in the occupied areas, according to the decision of the European Court of Human Rights and to improve the Green Line regulation.

Lillikas said that on all these matters, the Council will proceed based on Protocol 10 of the Accession Act.

[43] Cyprus says Turkey showing real face to EU

NICOSIA, 25/12/2006 (CNA/ANA-MPA)

Commenting on Erdogan's statement that Turkey was not taking into consideration the necessity to meet its obligations towards Cyprus, on the occasion of refusing to allow a Cyprus-flagged ship to dock at a Turkish port, Lillikas said that ''such political behavior, which is provocative to insulting for the EU, neither creates the best conditions for Turkey to continue its European course nor does it create the image Erdogan wanted to form of a so-called European Turkey.''

''It is yet another expression of the expansionary policy, either military or political, which is also expressed towards the EU, and this must perturb us Cypriots regarding how Turkey would express itself in other instances towards the Republic of Cyprus, which is much smaller than the EU,'' Lillikas said.

Replying to questions, Lillikas said he was certain no European leader or politician dealing with the EU and Turkey's relations with the EU would have been especially satisfied with this reaction.

He added that the EU does not respond to every statement, be they by a Turk or anyone else, but pointed out that this kind of behavior ''is taken into consideration.''

Asked about Cyprus' stance regarding a possible veto against Turkey, Lillikas said ''twice we did not block Turkey to begin its accession course, we want Turkey to proceed to the EU and we explain why and we remind that Turkey has obligations and cannot be differentiated from the other countries that have become members or are candidates.''

''We say that if Turkey does not meet its obligations, it will not leave us any other option than to exercise the veto,'' Lillikas said, adding that President Tassos Papadopoulos has said that ''it is our inalienable right and we will not abrogate this national right of ours.''

[44] Cyprus says Turkey must explain ship incident to EU

NICOSIA, 25/12/2006 (CNA/ANA-MPA)

Commenting on press reports that for the first time the Turkish authorities had issued an official document regarding their refusal to allow the ship to dock, which was subsequently sent to a company in Athens associated with the ship's agent, the Spokesman said the government had been informed about this by the press.

''We are expecting further briefing from the company, which reserves all its rights to press for compensation from Turkey for the loss of income or any economic losses,'' he said.

Lillikas noted that ''this document is not in the hands of the government and thus I cannot confirm or deny it.''

''We did what we ought to do, that is we informed the European Commission and now Turkey is expected to give explanations to the Commission,'' Lillikas said.

Replying to questions, Lillikas said the Cypriot government had been in contact with the Greek government regarding the incident.

[45] Cypriot president preparing for meeting with UN chief

NICOSIA, 25/12/2006 (CNA/ANA-MPA)

Replying to questions, Lillikas said that frequent contacts take place through diplomatic channels as well to prepare for the Paris meeting between President Papadopoulos and Kofi Annan, and that

Friday's meeting between the president and Moller aimed at making the Paris meeting more productive and effective.

Lillikas noted that both President Papadopoulos and Annan know what they will be discussing in Paris, adding that the agenda would not be made public.

Papadopoulos and Annan meet on Tuesday in the French capital to "review and take stock of the situation in Cyprus and discuss ways of moving forward the process of reuniting the island."

[46] Central Bank Governor says Eurozone aim remains unchanged

NICOSIA, 25/12/2006 (CNA/ANA-MPA)

Replying to questions, Christodoulou said ''the decision for Cyprus' accession to the Eurozone on 1st January 2008 is an aim of the Republic of Cyprus,'' which was taken ''a few weeks ago'' and in order for it to be fulfilled, the convergence criteria must be met.

Christodoulou noted that ''in the framework of enlightenment and briefing of the political parties and the professional groups by the Minister of Finance and the Central Bank Governor, there was a reservation or even a position to postpone accession to the Eurozone.''

Referring to the government's social policy, Christodoulou said the Central Bank believes it could always be more generous, as long as it is set on a healthy and stable economy, which will create the conditions to have a surplus instead of a deficit, so that ''we can both join the Eurozone and have a more comfortable social policy.''

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