Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English, 06-04-11

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

CONTENTS

[01] EU health commissioner Kyprianou meetings with prime minister, PASOK leader

[02] Papoulias meets Kyprianou

[03] EU external relations council convenes in Luxembourg

[04] Tourism Minister Palli-Petralia meets U.S. Undersecretary of State Burns

[05] Inner Cabinet meeting on Tuesday to focus on farm issues

[06] Greek army chief says Cyprus' security a component of strategic dogma

[07] ADAE report on phone-tapping deeply implicates Vodafone

[08] Government spokesman discusses mass media bill with party representatives

[09] PASOK leader will chair meeting of party's Parliamentary Group plenum on Tuesday

[10] KKE leader addresses party gathering in Athens

[11] Gov't, KKE condemn attack by PPC security guards in Chios against female journalist

[12] European Environment Commissioner speaks at New Bulgarian University

[13] Communist and workers' parties agree on joint initiatives for education during Athens conference

[14] Special Regional Council of Macedonia-Thrace ministry holds first meeting

[15] EDEK party leader speaks in Thessaloniki

[16] Military contingent in command of Kabul airport for 4 months returns

[17] AHEPA awards president, prime minister and parliament president

[18] AHEPA delegation to visit Greece, Cyprus, Ecumenical Patriarchate

[19] Greek-Americans try to raise awareness in Europe regarding Ecumenical Patriarchate

[20] Agreement on EU budget secures Greek govt's success, Deputy FM says

[21] Gov't to persist with fiscal adjustment program, FinMin says

[22] Main opposition slams govt's economic performance

[23] Local administration employees' Executive Committee decides to continue strike

[24] Gov't comments on garbage strike

[25] Labor confederation supports contract workers' demands

[26] Greek commerce publishes annual report

[27] Development minister on oil prices

[28] Main opposition leader meets tobacco grower's organization

[29] Greek consumers more optimistic over their income in 2006, survey

[30] Alpha Bank denies plans to acquire Denizbank

[31] First wind park inaugurated in Central Macedonia

[32] Greenpeace addresses open letter to PM on renewable energy sources

[33] Two exhibits promoting Greek products, services held in US

[34] Thessaloniki, theme city at 'Hermes-EXPO' int'l exhibition in Atlantic City, US

[35] International consultants company to prepare administration reorganization study for DOL

[36] Greek inflation at 3.3 pct in March, yr/yr

[37] Foreign investors raised equity holdings in the Greek market in March

[38] Greek exports up 13.2 pct in February, yr/yr

[39] Athens Economic University developing specialized postgraduate program in business administration

[40] Attica Holdings completes sale of two vessels to Estonia's Tallink Grupp

[41] Greek stocks end at highest level since Sept 2000

[42] Trial unification of ANA-MPA electronic networks begins on Tuesday

[43] Convicted judge in trial-rigging scandal sues Greek state in European Court for loss of income

[44] 5.2R earthquake jolts Carpathos island

[45] World Health Day observed during city of Athens event

[46] Half of child deaths in Greece due to road accidents, ELPA reports

[47] Radio marathon by UNICEF against exploitation of children

[48] Greek section of 'Doctors of the World' award Bob Geldof

[49] Three charged with killing parish priest on Crete

[50] President hopes talks on Cyprus will take place

[01] EU health commissioner Kyprianou meetings with prime minister, PASOK leader

ATHENS, 11/04/2006 (ANA)

After his meeting with the prime minister -- which was also attended by health and social solidarity minister Dimitris Avramopoulos and development minister Dimitris Sioufas -- Kyprianou told reporters that he briefed Karamanlis on matters falling under his jurisdiction, with emphasis on the present situation concerning the avian influenza (bird flu) outbreak, as well as consumer protection.

Kyprianou said there was a "good cooperation", which would be continued at both bilateral level and at Council of Ministers level, adding that the cooperation with Greece was "satisfactory" and that "we are all working for the best implementation of the measures".

The Commissioner said that the EU's preparation for confronting the bird flu problem was "at the highest level worldwide".

He explained that, in the EU, the bird flu virus was detected chiefly in wild birds, while only two cases have been detected in poultry farms, and stressed that there was a high level of monitoring".

Kyprianou further noted that measures were announced last week for the support of poultry growers, and that funds were being sought for the Solidarity Fund, as well as for the creation of a strategic reserve supply in medicines as a precautionary step in the event that a pandemic broke out.

Replying to a question on "medical tourism", Kyprianou said that the European Commission endorsed such a prospect, which entails Europeans traveling for tourism but also to seek medical care in other member states where such services were prospectively less expensive.

Sioufas referred to consumer protection issues, and outlined the institution of Consumer Ombudsman that has been implemented, while he also spoke of the full operation of the secretariat general for the consumer and the changes to the legislative framework which "will give impetus to the consumer organizations".

"The strength of the consumers is the absolute weapon for better quality," Sioufas said, stressing that "it also leads to better operation of the market".

Avramopoulos, in turn, said that Greece had a full plan for confronting all the problems created by the bird flu.

"We re fully prepared, and there is no cause for concern," the health minister said, adding that "the National Action Plan and the reinforcement of the infrastructures throughout the country fully shield us".

Avramopoulos also announced plans to table two bills in parliament on medical and therapeutic tourism.

Kyprianou also met later with PASOK leader Papandreou, with whom he discussed matters of health and consumer protection.

[02] Papoulias meets Kyprianou

ATHENS, 11/04/2006 (ANA)

Kyprianou noted that health and consumer protection were two issues that greatly interested all European citizens:

"One can never say that things are at a perfect level but in Europe we have reached a very good level of protection," he told Papoulias.

[03] EU external relations council convenes in Luxembourg

LUXEMBOURG,11/04/2006 (ANA-MPA/M. Spinthourakis)

The issue was raised by Hungary's delegation, which briefed the EU on the problems the country faces as a result of recent floods.

Greek Deputy Foreign Minister Yiannis Valinakis, who along with Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis represented Greece, said that the EU must support Hungary but also stressed that Greece is facing similar problems, particularly in the north, after floods caused by the overflowing Evros River.

Additionally, he said that due to the recent floods, the issue of the fund specially established by the EU for natural disasters must be re-examined.

Valinakis said that the criteria for countries' eligibility must be revised and that EU intervention must become more flexible and effective.

[04] Tourism Minister Palli-Petralia meets U.S. Undersecretary of State Burns

WASHINGTON, 11/04/2006 (ANA-MPA/T. Ellis)

Palli-Petralia who is in Washington to take part in the World Tourism Conference which is taking place these coming two days, described the 45-minute discussion as excellent, noting that Burns "is a good friend of Greece and knows Greek reality."

She called for the need of cooperation aimed at attracting American tourists to Greece, noting that "the Greek government's priority is to attract American tourists to our country, as the benefit from high level tourism will be important."

Burns agreed with the Greek tourism minister that "following the successful hosting of the Olympic Games in 2004, Greece constitutes an important and safe tourism destination, while it also henceforth possesses ultra-modern infrastructures."

Earlier, Palli-Petralia had a working luncheon with travel agents to whom she presented the Greek tourism environment and discussed details of services which Greece offers.

[05] Inner Cabinet meeting on Tuesday to focus on farm issues

ATHENS, 11/04/2006 (ANA)

Meanwhile, the premier will be honored on Monday evening by the Greek-American organization AHEPA at a downtown Athens hotel.

[06] Greek army chief says Cyprus' security a component of strategic dogma

NICOSIA, 11/04/2006 (ANA-MPA/A.Viketos/CNA)

Hinofotis, who is paying an official visit to Cyprus, visited the National Guard General Staff, where he held separate meetings with Cyprus' Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Constantinos Bisbikas and Cypriot Defense Minister Kyriakos Mavronicolas, and was briefed on the state of the National Guard.

Addressing officials of the National Guard, Hinofotis said his visit to the island shows the unreserved interest of Greece in the security of the Hellenism of Cyprus and in general in the security of the Republic of Cyprus and also indicates the excellent cooperation, continued coordination and close relations between the chiefs of the Greek and Cypriot armed forces.

''Greece's active contribution to Cyprus' security is a goal of the national defense policy, a component of the country's strategic dogma and is included in the guidelines of the armed forces defense planning, in the framework of the more effective implementation of the Joint Defense Pact,'' he added.

Bisbikas said that ''despite the improvement of the security climate from Cyprus' accession to the EU, the military environment on the island has not changed, since the Turkish occupation forces continue to improve both in quality and quantity and present a continuous threat.''

He noted that this creates the need to be vigilant and alert and for increased operational readiness and fighting capability of the army, adding that ''in this context we are taking all the necessary measures to counterbalance the quantity we never had with the quality which is within our measures.''

Bisbikas added that ''we seek in cooperation with the Greek National Defense General Staff to improve preconditions and infrastructure for

the unimpeded implementation of the Joint Defense Pact, which contributes considerably to security and to the defense of the island.''

Hinofotis was earlier received by President of the Republic Tassos Papadopoulos and House of Representatives Speaker Demetris Chrostofias. He also visited the Greek Armed Forces (ELDYK).

[07] ADAE report on phone-tapping deeply implicates Vodafone

ATHENS, 11/04/2006 (ANA)

"Based on this report, a public prosecutor should immediately press charges against Vodafone," Karamarios told reporters.

Confirming that he had received the 27-page document prepared by the Authority of Assurance of Information and Communication Privacy and Security (ADAE), Karamarios said that he had sent it on to Parliament President Anna Psarouda-Benaki so that it might be distributed among the members of his committee, which is currently investigating the scandal.

Listing points made in the report to journalists covering Parliament, the ruling party MP noted that five Vodafone executives had access to the company's digital centre in Paiania on the day when the problems with the SMS messages began and that the last to leave the building was a person with a visitor's entry pass, which indicated a member of Vodafone's staff working for the company but not at the Paiania centre.

On pages 20-21 of the report released on Monday, ADAE experts said that the network problems that led to the discovery of the illegal phone-tapping software in Vodafone's systems were caused by a partial installation of the 'rogue' software at the Paiania centre on January 25, 2005. They also ruled out that this modification of the illegal software on that day might have been carried out by someone accessing the system from outside, but only by someone working via an internal Vodafone network or someone physically present at one of the company's digital centers.

"...based on the evidence submitted to ADAE, the possibility of external access on January 24, 2005 is ruled out and it is ascertained that the modification of the intruder software, on that date, was carried out either via an internal network of the company Vodafone, or through physical presence at the digital centre. In every case, for the modification of the intruder software on January 24, 2005, the assistance of a person within Vodafone with the appropriate physical access and system access rights is deemed necessary," the report concludes.

ADAE experts said they were led to this conclusion by comparing the time when the first errors were recorded at the Paiania centre and files at Ericsson and Vodafone recording who had access to the system and when.

The problems first appeared with the system on 18:56 on January 24, 2005, with failed SMS transmissions from Q-Telecom subscribers that the ADAE report said were caused by "the installation of part of the intruder software".

Given the large number of messages moved between the two companies and the fact that the intruder software could not be installed into Vodafone's network without an operator being physically present, the report concludes that the time elapsed between the introduction of the intruder software and the appearance of the first efforts at the Paiania centre was in the area of a few seconds or, at the most, a few minutes.

It also cites evidence given by Ericsson, such as work orders at Vodafone centers and records of remote access to Vodafone's systems, showing that Ericsson employees had an order to work on Vodafone centers until 17:00 on January 24, 2005, with the last Ericsson employee entering Vodafone's Operating Sub-System (OSS) management platform at 16:49 and exiting two minutes later at 16:51.

Vodafone's records for entry and exit to the OSS from 19:00 until 19:56 show that five Vodafone employees had access to the Paiania digital centre through the OSS at 19:56.

In terms of physical access to the Paiania centre, the company's clearance forms for access to Vodafone facilities show that the last work done by a Vodafone employee ended at 16:30 on that day.

Entry and exit records for the Paiania building showed that the last access was at 16:15:46 by a person issued with a Visitor's pass. A Visitor's pass is issued to all external visitors in every Vodafone installation, even if they are company employees that do not have access rights to the specific installation.

The report also notes that identifying those entering with Visitor passes during that specific period is impossible because the exit and entry books were destroyed, according to Vodafone.

Completed entry/exit forms at the security centre at the Paiania centre do not exist, according to a written statement by Vodafone, whereas records of this type do exist and were submitted for the digital centers at Kifissos and Pireos street.

The phone-tapping plot involving Greece's top mobile phone provider Vodafone was revealed by the government in February, after a nearly year-long covert investigation by the authorities had failed to find those responsible. It said the roughly 100 phones that were tapped included those of the prime minister, members of the government, high-ranking police and armed forces personnel, activists, journalists, business people and even one U.S. Embassy employee.

It was first brought to the government's attention in March 2005 by Vodafone chief executive George Koronias, who said it operated through a piece of sophisticated intruder software that had activated a legal "low-phone interception" system developed by Ericsson to allow legal phone surveillance but was able to mask its presence when inactive.

[08] Government spokesman discusses mass media bill with party representatives

ATHENS, 11/04/2006 (ANA)

The spokesman held two-hour talks with representatives of parties represented in Parliament, with the exception of the Communist Party of Greece (KKE) which will table its proposals in Parliament during the debate on the bill.

"The discussion was interesting, and generally speaking there were no major disagreements. The settlement of certain issues remains pending, which will take place after the proposals and positions of the deputy-members of the Parliamentary Institutions and Transparency Committee are heard during the discussion to be held on Wednesday afternoon," Roussopoulos said.

The spokesman further said that from then on the government "will proceed with speedy steps because the process for the proclamation and beginning of licensing must not be delayed and issues which had not been settled must be arranged."

[09] PASOK leader will chair meeting of party's Parliamentary Group plenum on Tuesday

ATHENS, 11/04/2006 (ANA)

Papandreou will make an address at the close of the plenum's sessions.

At 2:30 p.m., Papandreou will meet with the Presidium of the Union of former Deputies-Eurodeputies at his office in Parliament.

[10] KKE leader addresses party gathering in Athens

ATHENS, 11/04/2006 (ANA)

Papariga criticized both the ruling New Democracy party and the main opposition PASOK party, saying that "these two parties which alternate in government are responsible for the problems facing the country".

She also said that no separation can take place between problems in local administration and other problems since they are in their entirety the result of policies followed by the two mainstream parties.

Papariga called on voters to take this reality into serious consideration and to condemn both parties in the elections.

[11] Gov't, KKE condemn attack by PPC security guards in Chios against female journalist

ATHENS, 11/04/2006 (ANA)

"The use of violence is condemnable, more so when it is used against a journalist who is carrying out his/her duty," Antonaros said.

Journalist Angeliki Hatzidimitriou was injured in the attack on Saturday.

On its part, the Communist Party of Greece (KKE) in an announcement on Monday said "the criminal attack by private policemen against Angeliki Hatzidimitriou at the PPC plant in Chios is not a coincidental incident," noting that "that even the life of a journalist is in danger, simply because she tried to do her work is the result of the policy of privatization, the intensification of autocracy and terrorism which privatizations entail."

The announcement added that the KKE "condemns the 'murderous' attack against Angeliki Hatzidimitriou and expresses its support to the journalist and calls on the working people do draw the necessary conclusions."

[12] European Environment Commissioner speaks at New Bulgarian University

SOFIA, 11/04/2006 (ANA-MPA/B. Borisov)

"The EU plays an important role in environmental policymaking. Environmental problems, such as air and water pollution, climate change and the decline in biodiversity, do not respect borders, so cooperation at EU level is necessary and well developed," Dimas said, adding that the EU is also taking "the global lead" in promoting environmental protection.

Dimas explained that environmental protection is necessary not only in terms of protecting natural beauty and ensuring a high quality of life for citizens, but also that it is important economically.

"The cost of doing nothing in terms of negative effects on human health, on our economies and on the stability of societies around the world would be disproportionately higher than the cost of taking protection measures," he said.

Referring to Bulgaria, he said that the country has made 'significant efforts' in environmental protection, noting however, that "there are a few areas where more efforts are needed. For example, the administrative capacity to put EU environmental legislation into practice must be further strengthened, particularly at local and regional levels, and there are three areas of legislation - waste, water and horizontal legislation - where transposition still needs to be completed and implementation assured," Dimas said.

In closing, the commissioner thanked Bulgaria for what it has done to implement EU legislation and to improve environmental protection.

"I am looking forward to Bulgaria's accession because, among other important benefits, it will enrich Europe's natural and cultural heritage and strengthen our efforts to advance environmental protection at international level. Thus, it will bring us a step closer to sustainable development," he said.

Dimas is on a two-day official visit to Bulgaria.

[13] Communist and workers' parties agree on joint initiatives for education during Athens conference

ATHENS, 11/04/2006 (ANA)

According to an announcement issued by KKE on Monday, the discussion was "rich and substantive" since "it was shown that adjustments in education promoted by the EU have a unified and general direction. Their content is reactionary and they are planned with the criterion of the needs of capital."

The communist and workers' parties participating in the meeting "hailed the struggles of the French working class and youth over a period of many days for the labor rights of young people" and agreed on joint initiatives and decided that the first step for joint action for the modern rights of young people of the labor and popular family in education should take place in September 2007.

Apart from KKE, foreign parties participating in the meeting included the Bulgarian Communist Party, the British Communist Party, the New Communist Party of Yugoslavia, the AKEL party of Cyprus, the Portuguese Communist Party, the Polish Communist Party, the Communist Party of the Russian Federation and the Turkish Communist Party.

[14] Special Regional Council of Macedonia-Thrace ministry holds first meeting

THESSALONIKI, 11/04/2006 (ANA)

A briefing was held during the meeting, lasting for about two hours, on the projects' course so far, while priorities set by regions were also examined.

It was decided that a special meeting on planning the 4th Community Support Framework should take place in June and after decisions expected from the finance and economy ministry have been taken in the meantime.

[15] EDEK party leader speaks in Thessaloniki

THESSALONIKI, 11/04/2006 (ANA)

"We're entering a new phase of mobility and prospects, but the paramount condition is for new developments is for Turkey to abandon its expansionist moves against Cyprus and to accept -- especially in light of its European course -- that a solution must be based on the principles of international law and not a reasoning of division and suzerainty over Cyprus," Omirou said.

[16] Military contingent in command of Kabul airport for 4 months returns

ATHENS, 11/04/2006 (ANA)

The remaining 15 staff-members requested that they remain at the airport for another two months under the successor Romanian command, reports state.

The entire group of returning servicemen was received on Monday by the national defense ministry's leadership.

In praising the Greek military command of Kabul airport, the airport general staff office noted that the Afghanistan capital's primary airport did not close even for a day during the four-month December-March period, even during heavy snowfall. Additionally, an average of 130 civilian and military aircraft took-off and landed from the airport every month during the Greek command's tenure, including planes carrying roughly 25,000 pilgrims to Mecca for Ramadan.

[17] AHEPA awards president, prime minister and parliament president

ATHENS, 11/04/2006 (ANA)

President Papoulias received the "Hellenism Prize", Premier Karamanlis the "Socrates Prize" while Parliament President Benaki-Psarouda received the "Pericles Prize".

In a short speech, President Papoulias thanked the AHEPA delegation, headed by AHEPA Supreme President Gus J. James, II, and referred to the excellent cooperation he had with the Association at the time when he was Greece's foreign minister in matters of national interest.

Premier Karamanlis thanked the one hundred-strong delegation for its presence in Greece and its support on issues of great importance for the nation, while Benaki-Psarouda highlighted the Greek-American association's contribution in promoting Greece's national issues.

U.S. Ambassador to Athens Charles Ries addressed the AHEPA banquet, praising the Greek-Americans' struggle against racism.

The banquet was organized within the framework of the annual Hellenic-American Forum 2006, which this year convened in Athens and is aiming at strengthening Greek-American relations.

Also present at the banquet was Economy and Finance Minister George Alogoskoufis who also addressed the event. A message by Archbishop of Athens and All Greece Christodoulos was also read out.

[18] AHEPA delegation to visit Greece, Cyprus, Ecumenical Patriarchate

ATHENS, 11/04/2006 (ANA)

The excursion will end on April 24.

[19] Greek-Americans try to raise awareness in Europe regarding Ecumenical Patriarchate

VIENNA, 11/04/2006 (ANA-MPA/D. Dimitrakoudis)

Specifically, the delegation met with Austrian President Heinz Fischer, House Speaker Andreas Kohl, American, Greek and Turkish ambassadors in Vienna and other officials.

Fischer and Kohl, after being briefed on the problems the Patriarchate in Turkey faces, stressed the need for the respect of European principles and values as well as religious freedoms, prerequisites for the progress of Turkey's EU accession talks.

Speaking to the ANA-MPA, Christoforos Stratakis, executive board member and legal advisor of the Order, stressed the problems that threaten the patriarchate's future, such as Ankara's refusal to recognize the ecumenical character of the patriarchate, the fact that neither the patriarchate nor the churches that belong to it are considered legal entities by the Turkish authorities, meaning they cannot own property and are not registered in the land registry.

Before meeting with political leaders in Austria, which currently assumes the EU's six-month rotating presidency, members of the Order had also met with European Commission officials in Brussels and members of European Parliament in Strasbourg.

[20] Agreement on EU budget secures Greek govt's success, Deputy FM says

ATHENS, 11/04/2006 (ANA)

Valinakis' comments were made to reporters, in response to questions regarding the recent inter-body agreement on the EU budget for the 2007-2013 period.

The deputy minister said that Greece came out 'a winner' from December's negotiations with an agreement that constitutes "a shot in the arm regarding development and which serves Greek interests in the best possible way."

[21] Gov't to persist with fiscal adjustment program, FinMin says

ATHENS, 11/04/2006 (ANA)

The Greek minister stressed that a preparatory dialogue on the pension system would begin after the Easter holidays and noted he was in continuous cooperation with Labor Minister Savvas Tsitouridis on the issue.

Commenting on the inflation rate, Alogoskoufis said the March 3.3 percent figure could not be described as particularly negative for Greece amidst a huge increase in international oil prices. He acknowledged, however, that the country faced an inflation problem since the consumer price inflation has not be reduced as much as it should be, five years after Greece entered the EMU.

Alogoskoufis said Eurostat would publish its final figures for the country's fiscal deficit in 2005 and in previous years and stressed that despite any reviews of the deficit, the government would persist with its fiscal adjustment program and its fiscal goals for 2006.

[22] Main opposition slams govt's economic performance

ATHENS, 11/04/2006 (ANA)

Vasso Papandreou, head of the Finance Division of PASOK's Political Council, accused Alogoskoufis of taking stabs at PASOK because "he's found himself at an impasse."

She added that "Speaking supposedly of PASOK's 'secret' program, Mr. Alogoskoufis is simply implementing in Greece [Italian Prime Minister Silvio] Berlusconi's practices, in other words, slandering his political opponents."

On their part, Rodoula Zisi and Christos Protopappas, Coordinator and Deputy Coordinator of the parliamentary group's Production and Commerce Division respectively, said that the inflation data released by the National Statistics Agency (ESYE) "provides indisputable evidence of the negative situation in the marketplace."

They added that "inflation is increasing at a greater rate than last year and that the high cost of basic goods and services is further pressuring household incomes."

[23] Local administration employees' Executive Committee decides to continue strike

ATHENS, 11/04/2006 (ANA)

Municipality employees were led to this decision after considering the position of the interior ministry on their main demand, the sector's inclusion among heavy duty and unhygienic professions, to be unsatisfactory.

POE-OTA general assemblies will convene on Tuesday afternoon to decide on their further action.

The meeting between POE-OTA President Th. Balasopoulos and Deputy Interior Minister Athanassios Nakos ended without the demands of municipality employees being satisfied, according to statements made by the employees' representatives.

Nakos reassured the leadership of POE-OTA that the commitment made by Interior Minister Prokopis Pavlopoulos that a dialogue will begin, particularly for permanent workers employed in the local administration cleanliness sector will be valid.

Earlier in the day, the workers had gathered outside their offices in Karaiskaki Square and marched to the interior ministry, where they met with the deputy minister and the ministry's secretary general.

After the meeting, they headed for the interior ministry on Vassilis Sophias avenue with the purpose of meeting Pavlopoulos who, however, was not in his office.

Balasopoulos said that they received no substantive reply to their demands and that the workers will continue their industrial action.

[24] Gov't comments on garbage strike

ATHENS, 11/04/2006 (ANA)

Alternate spokesman Evangelos Antonaros added that a relevant announcement by the interior ministry proves that municipal workers' demands have been met, while adding:

"The government is taking all the necessary steps to protect public health and legality without harming trade union rights."

Moreover, he noted that whoever wanted to return to work should have the right to do so, an answer in response to a press query on whether the government was preparing a "striking-breaking system".

"Those responsible for the situation (tons of rubbish on city streets) should consider their responsibilities..." the spokesman added.

[25] Labor confederation supports contract workers' demands

ATHENS, 11/04/2006 (ANA)

The case concerns a revocation appeal by the Sikyonioi municipality against a Citizens Service Centre (KEP) contract worker and a court decision which ruled that her contract was one of an indeterminable duration, paving the way for her being granted permanent status.

According to GSEE's legal adviser Nikolitsopoulos, the "public sector's aim of excluding the possibility of judicial vindication for all contract workers is evident, following additional intervention by the Hellenic state in favor of the municipality and against the contract worker".

He added that the consequences of such a decision will be decisive for the country's contract workers in their entirety.

[26] Greek commerce publishes annual report

ATHENS, 11/04/2006 (ANA)

Labor Minister Savvas Tsitouridis, speaking on the sidelines of the presentation of an annual report by the National Confederation of Greek Commerce, said the legislation on restructuring public sector enterprises was to the benefit of employees and all Greek citizens, while the president of GSEE -- Greece's largest trade union umbrella group -- Christos Polyzogopoulos said imposed reforms lead to labour reaction and confrontation. Polyzogopoulos said the government had huge responsibility for an "unacceptable" increase in prices, while Development Minister Yiannis Papathanasiou sounded optimistic over developments in domestic prices.

GSEBEE -- the union of small- and medium-sized enterprises -- said small- and medium-sized enterprises could not continue absorbing fuel price increases in their costs and noted that at some point this cost would be rolled-over to the consumer.

Main opposition PASOK deputy Anna Diamantopoulou criticized the government for allowing domestic prices to increase significantly in the past 12 months, as she said.

Development Minister Dimitris Sioufas, addressing the event, said he was expected for specific recommendations by Greek commerce on changes in the winter sales season and stressed that the commercial sector raised employment by 6.0 percent, its sales grew 11 percent and net profits were up 10 percent in 2005. The minister said the government would facilitate access to community funds for the retailing sector and support expanding cooperation with banks.

ESEE's president Dimitris Armenakis said the commerce sector was determined to help a government effort to promote the triptych competitiveness-productivity-entrepreneurship in the country.

The annual report by the National Confederation of Greek Commerce said the sector absorbed 21.6 pct of unemployed people and that two-thirds of wage-employed workers were based in Athens and Thessaloniki. Personal, limited and society anonym companies continued moving into different directions in 2004, with more than 45 percent of personal companies reporting stable sales, gross and net profits.

Personal companies mainly distributed domestically-manufactured products (39.5 pct), followed by EU-made products (34.1 pct) and imports from third countries (26.4 pct). This category of enterprises also reported limited borrowing and steady cash flow conditions in 2004.

[27] Development minister on oil prices

ATHENS, 11/04/2006 (ANA)

Greece fluctuated between third and 11th place, he said.

[28] Main opposition leader meets tobacco grower's organization

ATHENS, 11/04/2006 (ANA)

During the meeting, Papandreou stressed that tobacco growers must be supported by the government as well to avoid future problems for the sector after 2013, when the EU stopped subsidizing their crop.

He said the government should have negotiated to obtain the necessary funds through the EU budget.

[29] Greek consumers more optimistic over their income in 2006, survey

ATHENS, 11/04/2006 (ANA)

The survey, on consumer confidence, showed that a 27 percent of Greek households were more optimistic that 2006 would bring positive developments to their income, up eight percentage points from 2005, while a 35 percent of households were more pessimistic, up four percentage points from 2005.

GfK's survey said 52 percent of Greek households said their financial situation was worsened in the last 12 months, with the rate of increase accelerating since October 2004.

Nineteen percent of households said they expected the Greek economy to improve in the future, while the percentage of pessimistic households fell by three percentage points to 50 percent.

Only one in 10 Greeks had a positive view of economic changes in the last 12 months, while seven in 10 said the economy has worsened in the same period. Greek households, however, said they were more satisfied with the economic situation in the period March 2005-February 2006, compared with the period from July 2004 to June 2005.

The vast majority of respondents (95 pct) said consumer good prices rose in the last 12 months, with another 84 pct expecting prices to rise further this year.

Greeks also sounded slightly more optimistic over developments in the labor market with 68 pct of respondents expecting a decline in unemployment, compared with a 77 pct rate in June 2005.

Five in 10 Greeks said they barely afford to live with their income, while two in 10 said they borrowed money to meet their demands.

The survey was conducted February 13-14 on a sample of 1,000 Greek citizens.

[30] Alpha Bank denies plans to acquire Denizbank

ATHENS, 11/04/2006 (ANA)

Responding to a related question posed by the Athens Stock Exchange, Alpha Bank wrote that "the said reports express the conjectures of their writers that are not real."

The press reports appeared shortly after National Bank of Greece last week announced that it will acquire a 46% stake in a medium-sized Turkish bank, Finansbank.

[31] First wind park inaugurated in Central Macedonia

SERRES, 11/04/2006 (ANA)

It is the biggest investment in energy in the Serres prefecture and the first wind energy investment in the region of Central Macedonia.

According to an announcement issued by the company on Monday, it concerns an investment amounting to 17 million euros that was included in the support terms of the 3rd Community Support Framework, contributing to the absorption capacity of EU funds.

The investment is expected to lead to a decrease in carbon dioxide emissions by 43,000 tons a year, contributing to both the national target of having energy production from renewable sources constituting 20.1 percent of the total quantity by 2010 and to environmental protection.

[32] Greenpeace addresses open letter to PM on renewable energy sources

ATHENS, 11/04/2006 (ANA)

According to the organization, "the most recent actions of the Greek government show a hostile stance towards renewable energy sources, both at a national and international level."

It also stressed that "the most recent form of the draft law on renewable energy sources, presented by the development ministry a few days ago, is not capable of providing an impetus for renewable energy sources."

[33] Two exhibits promoting Greek products, services held in US

WASHINGTON, 11/04/2006 (ANA-MPA/A. Ellis)

Greece Expo 2006 Luxury Greek Travel and Culture Showcase were held at Manhattan's Lincoln Center.

An event in honor of Greek-American director Alexander Payne was held on the sidelines of the exhibit.

The second exhibit, titled Hermes Expo and founded by Greek-American Pavlos Kotrotsios, was held in Atlantic City.

[34] Thessaloniki, theme city at 'Hermes-EXPO' int'l exhibition in Atlantic City, US

ATLANTIC CITY, 11/04/2006 (ANA)

The delegation from Thessaloniki had a series of contacts with officials aimed at attracting investments and tourists. About 5,000 people visited the exhibition where advertising material was distributed, as well as a DVD with a small film on Thessaloniki, which was produced particularly for this event, by the Local Unions of Municipalities and Communities (TEDK).

HELLEXPO was represented by its managing director Themis Kartsiotis.

During the event, the Thessakoniki Municipality and the TEDK of Thessaloniki Prefecture honored Democratic Senator Paul Sarbanes.

[35] International consultants company to prepare administration reorganization study for DOL

ATHENS, 11/04/2006 (ANA)

[36] Greek inflation at 3.3 pct in March, yr/yr

ATHENS, 11/04/2006 (ANA)

NSS, in its monthly report, said the inflation rate rose 2.3 percent in March from February. The statistics service attributed to 3.3 percent increase in the consumer price index to a 7.6 pct rise in housing prices, a 4.0 percent increase in transport prices, a 3.7 pct increase in education prices, a 3.4 pct rise in healthcare prices and increases of 2.0 pct, 2.1 pct and 2.7 pct in entertainment, food-beverage and hotel-restaurant prices, respectively.

Greece's harmonized inflation rate rose 3.3 percent in March from the same month last year.

[37] Foreign investors raised equity holdings in the Greek market in March

ATHENS, 11/04/2006 (ANA)

Foreign institutional investors' equity holding rose to 41.73 pct of the Greek market's capitalization in March from 40.83 pct in February. Their participation in the FTSE 20 index rose to 45.70 pct in March from 44.89 pct in February, in the Mid-40 index jumped to 34.25 pct from 32.30 pct and in the FTSE-80 index rose to 15.26 pct from 14.55 pct over the same period, respectively.

Foreign institutional investors were net buyers in the Greek market in the first quarter of 2006 (with buys totalling 1.75 billion euros). The value of transactions in the Greek market in March totalled 8.883 billion euros, up 15.4 pct from February.

[38] Greek exports up 13.2 pct in February, yr/yr

ATHENS, 11/04/2006 (ANA)

NSS, in its monthly report on the country's merchandise trade, said the value of import-arrivals totaled 3.689 billion euros in February, from 3.283 billion euros in the February 2005, while the value of export-deliveries totaled 1.218 billion euros from 1.076 billion euros over the same period, respectively.

[39] Athens Economic University developing specialized postgraduate program in business administration

ATHENS, 11/04/2006 (ANA)

Last August, the postgraduate program (MBA International) of the University's Administrative Science and Technology Department officially received accreditation from the AMBA organization (Association of MBAs).

According to the director of the postgraduate program, Professor Grigoris Prastakos, accreditation by the AMBA places the postgraduate department on the international map of MBA programs, together with the leading business schools in Europe and constitutes the basis for the program's new phase of development on an international basis.

[40] Attica Holdings completes sale of two vessels to Estonia's Tallink Grupp

ATHENS, 11/04/2006 (ANA)

Attica Holdings will raise 310 million euros from the sale of its three vessels. Afterwards the Group's cash flow will increase by 102 million euros. Part of the proceeds will be used to repay a loan for the ships (196.6 mln euros) and other transaction costs (11 million euros).

Superfast VII and Superfast VIII have operated in the Baltic Sea since May 2001, while the Superfast IX vessel is servicing a sea route between Germany and Finland.

[41] Greek stocks end at highest level since Sept 2000

ATHENS, 11/04/2006 (ANA)

The index rose 0.25 pct to end at 4,302.62 points, with turnover an improved 466.1 million euros, of which 150 million euros were a pre-arranged block trade in Cosmote's shares.

The Big Cap index fell 0.15 pct, the Mid Cap rose 0.24 pct and the Small Cap index ended 1.09 percent higher.

The Healthcare and technology sectors recorded the biggest percentage gains of the day (3.32 pct and 3.20 pct respectively), while the Bank index suffered the heaviest percentage losses of the day (-1.60 pct), followed by the financial services index (-1.49 pct).

Hellenic Telecoms' shares jumped 3.49 percent and Cosmote's shares ended 2.04 pct higher.

Broadly, decliners led advancers by 152 to 123 with another 48 issues unchanged.

[42] Trial unification of ANA-MPA electronic networks begins on Tuesday

ATHENS, 11/04/2006 (ANA)

For the necessary technical adjustments, there will be a halt in the flow of news and of other services from Monday midnight until Tuesday 6 a.m.

The website of the united national agency will be www.ana-mpa.gr.

The known electronic addresses www.ana.gr and www.mpa.gr will redirect the users to website www.ana-mpa.gr.

The codes which are already used by subscribers will also continue to be valid after the fusion of the two websites.

The managements of ANA-MPA call for the understanding of their subscribers in the event of any problems that may arise during the first few days of operation of the unified website.

The common aim of ANA-MPA is the creation of a stronger and more reliable Athens News Agency-Macedonian Press Agency, of the country's national news agency, on the basis of Article 13 of Law 3444/2-3-2006, with which was ratified the merger of the two news agencies with the consensus of all of the country's political forces.

[43] Convicted judge in trial-rigging scandal sues Greek state in European Court for loss of income

ATHENS, 11/04/2006 (ANA)

A three-member appeals court on April 5 sentenced former justice Kalousis to serve three and a half years in prison for taking bribes in order to release suspected drug dealers from jail. The court found Kalousis guilty of demanding 50 million drachmas in 2001 in order to arrange the release of G. Iatridis, who was then facing charges narcotics-related charges. Kalousis was acquitted of a charge of breach of duty, again connected to the Iatridis case, with the court finding that it had not been proved that Kalousis, then an examining magistrate, had proceeding with actions as a magistrate on the instructions of third parties. The former judge denied the charges and claimed that the case against him was "fixed" and based on "lies and libel". Among the witnesses in the case were Iatridis and his ex-wife, a U.S. national that was also facing drugs charges. They confirmed that Kalousis had asked for bribes in order to secure their release from prison. Court decisions are still pending for criminal and misdemeanor charges against the former judge concerning his participation in a trial-fixing ring.

In his recourse to the European Court, Kalousis claims his remanding in custody was "invalid and illegal", and accuses the judicial functionaries that handled his case of succumbing to "expediencies and journalistic dictatorship".

Kalousis is seeking 3 million euros in indemnities from the Greek state for the loss of his salary and pension, claiming that his life has been "totally destroyed".

[44] 5.2R earthquake jolts Carpathos island

CARPATHOS, 11/04/2006 (ANA)

According to the Thessaloniki Aristotelion University's Geophysics Laboratory, the earthquake was recorded by its telemetric network at 2:27 a.m., with the epicenter at a short distance off the southern coast of the island.

Aristotelion University seismologist Vassilis Karakostas told ANA-MPA that the epicenter was pinpointed in the southeastern section of the Greek Arch, while it was not followed by strong aftershocks.

"There are no indications of seismic exacerbation of the southeastern Aegean region," Karakosta said, adding, however, that conclusions could be reached after the passage of the first 48 hours after the trembler.

[45] World Health Day observed during city of Athens event

ATHENS, 11/04/2006 (ANA)

Volunteers, clad in special vests and hats and holding a yellow ribbon, formed a human chain which took the shape of the human body. At the same time, other volunteers handed out information pamphlets regarding the "Health Dos and Don'ts" of good health, as well as invitations for a complimentary check-up at one of the city of Athens' seven municipal health clinics.

[46] Half of child deaths in Greece due to road accidents, ELPA reports

ATHENS, 11/04/2006 (ANA)

ELPA advises parents and teachers to teach children basic road safety rules, urging parents to accompany their children on routes that they will use frequently to show them how to safely get to their destination, as well as teaching children to avoid dangerous games near roadways.

Parents are also advised to make sure that school buses are equipped with necessary safety fixtures, and those children under 12 must always travel in special car seats designed for their age and weight. According to ELPA, only one in three children under four travel in a car seat suitable for their age in Greece, compared with 80 percent in other countries.

In Thessaloniki, meanwhile, traffic police have launched a campaign to discourage drivers from using their mobile phones when they are at the wheel, writing tickets for 525 offenders in the first three months of 2006.

Police stress the dangers of using mobile phones while driving, noting that it can slow reaction times by up to 18 percent, while limiting free movement and distracting a driver's attention.

[47] Radio marathon by UNICEF against exploitation of children

ATHENS, 11/04/2006 (ANA)

Taking part in the effort, are NET 105.8, Sky 100.3, Antenna 97.2, Flash 96.0, Alpha 98.9, Athina 984, 2nd Program 103.7, Melodia 99.2, Red 96.3, Diesi 101.3, Soho 89.8, Sportime 89.2, regional stations and tens of private radio stations from all over the country.

Donations can be made on the day of the Radio marathon, at the telephone centre 210 - 33 62 800.

Donations can also given to National Bank of Greece account number 169 / 480020-64 and Agricultural Bank of Greece account number 017 04 0044 16-70, and other banks.

[48] Greek section of 'Doctors of the World' award Bob Geldof

ATHENS, 11/04/2006 (ANA)

Geldof has shown social solidarity to countries plagued with poverty and AIDS.

For his humanitarian action, Geldof is again a candidate this year for the Nobel Peace Prize.

[49] Three charged with killing parish priest on Crete

HANIA, 11/04/2006 (ANA)

The three were led before the magistrate on Monday morning to answer charges of murder and robbery but were given an extension so that the lawyers appointed to represent them on Monday - following the resignation of the lawyers that had originally taken their case - could study the case file.

Police said that all three admit being involved but are each trying to pin responsibility on the other two for killing the priest.

[50] President hopes talks on Cyprus will take place

LARNACA, 11/04/2006 (CNA/ANA-MPA)

President Papadopoulos was speaking before his departure to India for an official five-day visit at the invitation of Indian President, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, from April 11 to 16.

A joint statement issued after President Papadopoulos' February meeting in Paris with SG Kofi Annan said ''the leaders of both communities have agreed that bicommunal discussions on a series of issues, agreement on which is needed for the benefit of all Cypriots, will be undertaken at the technical level.''

Asked whether UN Secretary General's Special Representative in Cyprus Michael Moller during their last meeting, provided answers as to whether the Turkish Cypriot side has given any explanations for its delay in answering if it accepts what was agreed in Paris, President Papadopoulos said "we hope that finally the start of the preparations for talks will become possible and that the discussion of the issues as set out in my meeting in Paris with the UN Secretary-General will take place".

President Papadopoulos said the government has adopted a self-imposed restriction on statements concerning efforts to resume the dialogue for a Cyprus settlement.

However, he added that "despite Ankara's pursuits or expediencies, our aim and goal has always been to properly prepare a new round of negotiations for a Cyprus settlement".

On his visit to India, President Papadopoulos described it as a way to "pay tribute and thanks to India for its firm and consistent stance on Cyprus.

He said "the great country of India is distinguished for its firm support towards the people of Cyprus and the positions which we support to justify our struggle" adding that during his contacts there, the Cyprus problem, bilateral relations and other political issues will be raised.

President Papadopoulos also praised India for its "impressive progress" as he said in the field of high technology noting that Cyprus and India have signed a memorandum of understanding in an effort "to benefit from the technology and know-how India has in this field since it is considered one of the leading countries in the world in high technology".

During his visit to India, President Papadopoulos will hold official talks with his Indian counterpart, Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, and other members of the Cabinet, with whom he will discuss the Cyprus problem, ways to enhance Cyprus-India relations, the United Nations reform, as well as other international matters.

He will also address the business symposium organized by the chambers of commerce of New Delhi, and will be the key speaker at a conference by the Indian World Affairs Council.

President Papadopoulos will also visit the Mumbai Stock Exchange and Indian industries of high technology in Bangalore.

President Papadopoulos will be accompanied by Minister of Foreign Affairs George Iacovou, Minister of Commerce, Industry and Tourism

and Government Spokesman George Lillikas, Director General of the Ministry of Finance Christos Patsalides and the President's special advisor Chrysis Pantelides.

Moreover, a delegation of Cypriot businessmen and academics will accompany the president during his visit.

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