Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English, 08-07-04

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

CONTENTS

[01] FinMin meets with Commission reps on 2008-2010 reforms program

[02] PASOK spokesman on economy

[03] Greece dismisses latest quip by FYROM leadership over 'new issues' on agenda of talks

[04] US envoy to Greece details positions on FYROM, Cyprus at AHEPA convention

[05] FM spokesman on political developments in Turkey

[06] Joint exercise with Israel

[07] Papoulias holds talks with Austrian leadership

[08] President Papoulias begins state visit to Austria, meets with Chancellor Kusenbauer

[09] Reminiscences of Antiquity in Modern Greek Art exhibition

[10] FM meets with Archbishop Demetrios of America

[11] Foreign ministry spokesman on release of Betancourt

[12] PASOK leader on rescue of FARC hostages

[13] Government continues to back Liapis over Siemens affair

[14] PASOK calls for Liapis' resignation

[15] Papariga on Siemens case

[16] Talks between Coalition-AKEL delegations

[17] PASOK MP blames gov't for lack of strategic planning

[18] Most Greeks opposed to nuclear power

[19] U.S. Ambassador Speckhard holds July 4th reception

[20] PASOK MPs address event on Andreas Papandreou

[21] General Assembly of Sino-Greek Chamber of Commerce

[22] Agriculture minister addresses PASEGES General Assembly

[23] Greek chemical industry growing strongly, report says

[24] Hellenic Petroleum, Edison announce strategic alliance deal in power production

[25] Greek stocks jump 3.10% on Thurs.

[26] ADEX closing report

[27] Foreign Exchange rates: Friday

[28] Former judges jailed for corruption, bribery

[29] Journalist sues magistrate in Zachopoulos case

[30] Fire in Gytheio, Peloponnese

[31] "Green Life in the City" programme unveiled

[32] Coop memo for protection of greater Athens environment

[33] 3rd International Geoparks Conference

[34] Bear returned to natural habitat after car collision

[35] Roman era tombs unearthed in Krinides, near Philippi

[36] Hot on Friday

[37] The Thursday edition of Athens' dailies at a glance

[38] Cypriot Parliament ratifies Lisbon Treaty

[39] Commission President congratulates Cyprus on ratification of Lisbon Treaty

[40] EP President welcomes ratification

[41] Cyprus one of Russia's major investors, says President

[42] Cypriot FM holds talks with Israeli counterpart

[01] FinMin meets with Commission reps on 2008-2010 reforms program

The government's goal is to achieve growth, employment and social cohesion, and also to enhance environmental policies, Alogoskoufis said, adding that the drafting of the updated program was being conducted at a time when the global economy was going through one of its most critical phases.

The minister also said that there were "clear indications" of signs of a slowdown of growth in the global economy, but as regards inflation, some specialists were already speaking of a "stationery inflation".

Alogoskoufis further said that the Greek economy's growth rate in the last few years has been substantlally high, and despite a minor slowdown, it remained significantly higher than the average in the euro-zone, and added that "spasmodic" moves in economic policy were not necessary.

[02] PASOK spokesman on economy

"At a time when the weakest classes and the middle class are being dealt a blow, to an unprecedented extent, as a result of the economic crisis and the results of the New Democracy party's five-year economic policy, it is impressive for us to be hearing Mr. Alogoskoufis congratulating himself and the government today for the achievements in the economy," he said.

The spokesman added that Alogoskoufis "has not realised what is taking place around him" since "it cannot be explained otherwise when he says that we must maintain our direction."

Referring to the announcement by the European Central Bank on an increase in loan interest rates by 0.25 percent, Papaconstantinou said that the government cannot avoid this development and claimed that "this will burden overindebted households even more and called on the government to present its proposal to relieve these households."

[03] Greece dismisses latest quip by FYROM leadership over 'new issues' on agenda of talks

Foreign ministry spokesman George Koumoutsakos termed comments by FYROM FM Antonio Milososki as a completely "baseless, unqualified and unsubstantiated attempt to create impressions" by the FYROM side.

Moreover, the spokesman reiterated that Greece's negotiating position, "and the way we understand and deal with negotiations, has been unwavering from the first moment; everything was clear, open. In fact, the consistency of Greece's positions was absolutely confirmed at the NATO summit in Bucharest. The validity of our positions is undisputed and our positions remain steadfast to the letter."

Milososki was quoted by local media in Skopje this week as saying "it would be good if we close all the possible issues that could cause misunderstanding in the future", after first accusing the Greek side of "piling on" more issues in negotiations, which acquired a distinct urgency for the FYROM side after Greek leadership more-or-less made clear its position of "no solution, no invitation" to NATO or the EU.

Asked during a regular press briefing at the foreign ministry about the most recent comments by Skopje government officials regarding a "Macedonian minority" in northern Greece and even discussion of such an issue in ongoing negotiations, Koumoutsakos said:

"For Greece there is one specific and defined objective in this negotiation process, in fact, this is the mandate under which the UN Secretary General's envoy, Matthew Nimetz, exercises his duties and mission. The obstructive delay tactics followed by the leadership of Skopje are revealed more and more every day.

"This is confirmed by a series of unacceptable, in terms of manner and content, statements, as well as by this unfortunate attempt to generate non-existent and baseless issues. Greece will not be influenced and will not participate in any attempt to divert negotiations from their objective, which is none other than a mutually acceptable solution to the 'name issue'. Greece will continue to work constructively for a solution," he concluded.

[04] US envoy to Greece details positions on FYROM, Cyprus at AHEPA convention

In touching on the timely issue that dominated much of the Greek foreign policy attention over the recent period, namely, the "name dispute" still separating Athens and the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM), Speckhard said that " I personally believe a solution can be found and that Athens and Skopje can reach it with political will and a focused effort, hopefully this year."

Referring to what he called a "top current issue" for Greece in the Balkans at the moment -- the "name of Greece's northern neighbour" -- Speckhard stressed that " I believe that Greece is a staunch ally, one of our oldest and strongest partners. At the same time, welcoming a new friend and ally in Skopje is not incompatible with this fact. But I also understand the sensitivity of this issue. Greece is rightly proud of its ancient history, as it was known to Alexander the Great and his father Philip, whose tomb I had the honor of visiting earlier this year in Vergina.

" The United States has consistently said it wants to see a solution to the name issue that is mutually acceptable to both Greece and Skopje, and that we would embrace whatever solution both parties could agree on," he said in inaugurating the convention, the first time in 38 years that the largest Greek-American organisation has held its biggest annual event in Greece.

Moreover, in the face of latent displeasure in Athens over the Bush administration's snap recognition of FYROM's "constitutional name" days after the US presidential election in November 2004, Speckhard reiterated that " the important point is that the US was and still is an ally and partner of Greece, including on the name issue. When, at the end of the day, a solution could not be found that satisfied Greece, we respected their decision, and in the tradition of the (NATO) Alliance, Skopje did not get an invitation. Do we still think it important for the Balkans, Greece, Europe, and most of all Skopje to become a member of NATO to anchor stability in this region? Absolutely. But we know this can only happen with a solution that satisfies our partner and ally Greece."

Cyprus

Regarding the Cyprus problem, the US envoy told an audience of distinguished Greek-Americans that Washington supports a unified, federal, bi-zonal Cyprus.

"I am encouraged by recent talks and the willingness of President (Demetris) Christofias and (T/C leader Mehmet Ali) Talat to sit down together. They have already taken a big first step in reopening the Ledra Gate. I know many of you want to see us more involved in the process. We are willing to do whatever we can to support a successful process and conclusion. However, our support and facilitation needs to be directed in such a way that helps and does not distract or the participants in the process from meaningful dialogue and compromises that will inevitably be necessary. So you will see our support, but we will be listening closely to those closest to the situation to know how and when we can support the process."

[05] FM spokesman on political developments in Turkey

Koumoutsakos also expressed hope that whatever internal developments in the country do not weaken its volition to work towards its European aspirations or become an obstacle towards necessary reforms and adaptation to Europe's accession conditions, principles and values.

He also said Athens hopes that the political situation in Turkey will also not block Ankara from "working in the direction of a continuous improvement in Greek-Turkish relations and a solution of the Cyprus problem."

Regarding a report on the situation of the dwindling ethnic Greek minority on the northeast Aegean islands of Imvros and Tenedos, composed by Swiss deputy Andreas Gross for the Council of Europe's (CoE) Parliamentary conference, the spokesman said the foreign ministry is studying the report, which he called substantive and objective, reminding that Greece's ambassador to Turkey recently toured the two islands, which were awarded to the Republic of Turkey via the 1923 Treaty of Lausanne.

The once predominately Greek populated islands retain only a tiny number of ethnic Greeks today, mainly elderly residents, following a mass appropriation of land by the Turkish state in the 1960s and an array of restrictive measures, i.e. inheritance restrictions, establishment open correctional facilities etc.

Additionally, Koumoutsakos said Athens was awaiting a response by Ankara after a specific Greek reaction against provocative content regarding Thrace on the Turkish foreign ministry's website.

Turning to the Cyprus issue, the spokesman said a meeting by Cyprus President Demetris Christofias and Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat earlier this week, was a "positive development", with a joint statement issued afterwards "moving in the right direction".

[06] Joint exercise with Israel

He reiterated that the training exercise is part of framework of bilateral agreements between Greece and Israel, all included in a relevant memorandum of cooperation signed by the two countries.

"There is absolutely no relation to what has been written," he added.

[07] Papoulias holds talks with Austrian leadership

Visiting Greek President Karolos Papoulias reiterated here on Thursday how important it was for the European Union that a solution to the protracted Cyprus problem be found, while underlining, at the same time, the "political absurdity of having a 40 percent of an EU member-states' territory occupied by a Union candidate country, namely, Turkey."

Addressing a joint press conference with his Austrian counterpart Heinz Fischer after their meeting, Papoulias said the talks covered a wide range of bilateral, European and international issues. They both agreed that, in light of the Irish rejection of the Lisbon Treaty, the EU should find ways by which the Union can move forward without being paralysed for a long period of time.

Referring to the ongoing world economic crisis, Papoulias said it was ascertained at the talks, that Europe should find solutions for the relief of people suffering most from the crisis.

Regarding bilateral relations, the Greek president said that there was common satisfaction for their excellent level, noting that there were still prospects for their further development.

On his part and referring to Turkey, Austrian President Fischer said that the neighbouring country "has made and will make every possible effort not to distance herself but, on the contrary, to develop and look for more paths for approaching and succeeding her target for EU entry."

Fischer also expressed his concern regarding current internal developments in Turkey.

The talks between the two presidents were followed by a meeting between Austrian and Greek delegations.

President Fischer was to host an official dinner in honor of Papoulias in the evening.

Talks with Chancellor Kusenbauer

Addressing reporters earlier, during a joint press conference with Austrian Federal Chancellor Alfred Kusenbauer after their talks, Papoulias expressed "sorrow over the intransigent, almost hostile" stance adopted by the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM) towards Greece.

"Greece, unfortunately, is on the receiving end of an unfounded irredentism, a hostile irredentism ... despite the fact that in the Interim Agreement it was agreed that there should be a mutually acceptable name."

Greece and FYROM signed an UN-brokered Interim Agreement in 1995, while Papoulias signed the document on behalf of the Greek side, as he was serving as foreign minister at the time.

Regarding Kosovo, the Greek president said Greece was following developments "with exceptional attention, considering that it is an extremely sensitive issue."

The two men also agreed over their support to the European prospects of western Balkan states.

[08] President Papoulias begins state visit to Austria, meets with Chancellor Kusenbauer

Greece and Austria, as the closest EU countries to the Balkans and countries with advanced economies, "have a great, common responsibility for the further development of the Balkans", Kusenbauer told ANA-MPA following his morning meeting with Papoulias.

The Chancellor said he and Papoulias had had a "good and detailed discussion" focusing chiefly on Balkan developments, and the situation in Serbia and Kosovo.

He said they had reaffirmed that Greece and Austria support stability in the Balkans, which, however, must be closely linked with the Balkan countries' course to EU accession.

After his talks with the Austrian chancellor, Papoulias was received with military honors at the Presidential Mansion before his meeting with Fischer.

The Greek President, who is accompanied by culture minister Michalis Liapis, deputy foreign minister Yannis Valynakis and a Greek delegation comprising government officials and Greek businessmen, arrived in Vienna on Wednesday evening for a four-day official visit, reciprocating a state visit by Fischer to Athens in May last year.

On Thursday evening, Papoulias, his wife May and the Greek delegation will attend an official reception hosted in the Greek President's honor by Fischer and his wife.

Earlier, Papoulias will have separate meetings with Vienna mayor Michael Haupl, and Austrian parliament (National Council) president Barbara Prammer, the parliament's first woman president.

Shortly after his arrival in Vienna, Papoulias met with Metropolitan Michael of Austria and the Ecumenical Patriarchate's Exarch of Hungary and Middle Europe, at the Holy Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Austria, which houses the historic Greek National School of Vienna, the oldest Greek school abroad.

In statements to ANA-MPA, Papoulias said he was deeply moved and expressed his reverence at his visit to the historic Metropolis, and expressed the wish that the Hellenism of Vienna will carry on their glorious tradition.

Addressing Papoulias, Metropolitan Michael said that the Greek President's visit to the Metropolis constituted a pilgrimage and manifestation of tribute and memory to those who contributed to the spiritual revival of the Nation and the creation of modern Greece.

Michael noted that the Metropolis has for centuries been the center of Hellenism in Austria, and the manifestation of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, adding that the Greeks of Vienna, and of Austria in general, continue to enhance the friendly ties between the two friendly countries -- Greece and Austria.

The Metropolitan himself guided the President and the Greek delegation on a tour of the Metropolis, during which he referred to the long history of Hellenism in Vienna, and described as an important event the recent visit to the Metropolis and the two historic Greek churches in the Greek Quarter of Vienna by President Fischer and his wife.

On Friday, Papoulias and Fischer will take part in the Greece-Austria Economic Forum, followed by talks with Vice Chancellor Wilhelm Molterer, and a meeting with representatives of the Greek community.

On Friday night, Papoulias will inaugurate an exhibition titled "Reminiscences of Antiquity in Modern Greek Art" at Vienna's world renowned Kunsthistorisches Museum (Museum of Art History), followed by a reciprocal reception he will host in honor of the Austrian Presidential couple.

On Saturday, accompanied by Fischer, Papoulias will visit Salzburg, where he will be greeted by Salzburg State Governor Gabriele Burgstaller.

The Greek President and delegation will depart for Athens on Saturday afternoon.

[09] Reminiscences of Antiquity in Modern Greek Art exhibition

The exhibition, which comprises 53 works of art, aspires to present the reception of the classical spirit of ancient Greece (ideas, themes, figures) by modern Greek artists, the ways in which they have been inspired by it, as well as the ways in which they represented it in their art during the 20th century.

According to the organizers, with the exception of Constantine Parthenis (1878-1967), who belongs to an older generation, the major painters of this exhibition are representatives of the famous Thirties Generation and its spirit: Ghika, Tsarouhis, Moralis, Nicolaou, Engonopoulos, and Vassileiou, as well as Fassianos, a younger inheritor of the same tradition.

[10] FM meets with Archbishop Demetrios of America

"The Greek-American community is always on Greece's side, fully activated and vigilant to contribute to issues of national importance as well as to issues of education and culture," Demetrios stated after the meeting, adding that they had a productive and creative discussion.

"National issues, Orthodoxy and the Ecumenical Patriarchate demand the support of the Greek expatriates who are always ready to act," he added.

Archbishop Demetrios also referred to a concert by the Archdiocese of America children's choir of New York, which is scheduled to take place at the Zappeion Hall building on Thursday evening.

All proceeds will go in support of the Elpida Association of Friends of Children with Cancer.

[11] Foreign ministry spokesman on release of Betancourt

"A harsh and inhuman capitivity lasting for six years had a favourable end. This both pleases and moves us. We hope, however, that more hostages who are remaining in this state will also be released," he said.

Replying to a question on European policy on terrorism, Koumoutsakos said that "the characteristics that European policy has on tackling terrorism are a correct combination of handling conditions in which terrorism finds ground and determination as to the immediate response and punishment of those involved in acts of terrorism."

[12] PASOK leader on rescue of FARC hostages

"We learnt with great relief the news of the rescuing of 15 hostages of the Colombian Revolutionary Armed Forces. Among them is Ingrid Betancourt, who suffered captivity for over six years," he said, adding that "we congratulate the Colombian Authorities for the success of the rescue operation."

Papandreou added that "our thoughts are with those who are still being held captive and with their families. We call on the FARC to release the rest of the hostages and to go ahead with a peace agreement."

[13] Government continues to back Liapis over Siemens affair

"No one questions the trustworthiness of Mr. Liapis, who has been active in the political life of the country for more than 30 years," government spokesman stressed in response to press questions related to the affair and whether the government had asked Liapis to provide receipts showing that he paid for the trip himself.

The spokesman said that he had contacted the minister, who had assured the spokesman that he had organised himself and covered all the expenses for his visit to Germany with his son in order to watch Greece play at a football match.

According to the minister, everything else reported, if it happened, occurred without his knowledge.

Roussopoulos clarified that the government had not asked Liapis to provide receipts for the trip.

"He is a politician of many years with credibility. Mr. Liapis was not asked to prove to the [prime minister's office] the things that he stated at length and clearly in his public statement," the spokesman underlined.

On a related issue, the spokesman also commented on the criticism launched against Greek justices on Wednesday by the main opposition PASOK party, saying that this was only justifiable in those ignorant of the way justice works and wishing to create "different impressions".

Roussopoulos again repeated that the judicial investigation had not stopped and was continuing and that the full investigation was usually more thorough than the preliminary inquiry.

He also announced that the Special Audits Service would be looking into the case to investigate possible tax offences and money-laundering by Siemens after the end of the full investigation.

The spokesman also clarified that barring Siemens from participating in public tenders was not a political decision but a matter of law, which had to be handled through legal arguments.

[14] PASOK calls for Liapis' resignation

The party's spokesman George Papaconstantinou said that it was "inconceivable" for the party that Liapis remained in the government, saying that the minister had not adequately explained his presence in the same country, the same hotel and at the same time as the former Siemens exec and nor provided any proof of his claim that the trip was not paid for by Siemens.

The government and Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis were in an equally untenable position for supporting the minister and retaining him in the government, the spokesman added.

"[Karamanlis] should have already asked for his resignation, because this creates a major issue of moral propriety," Papaconstantinou stressed, adding that both Liapis and the premier appeared not to appreciate the "presumption of political responsibility".

"Corruption scandals destroy the relations of trust that should exist between citizens and political parties, have direct economic repercussions on the citizens and, moreover, do not allow politics and politicians to deal with the real problems," the spokesman said.

Papaconstantinou referred to the "deafening silence" from the ruling party's camp concerning the culture minister's trip, followed by a statement on Thursday from the government spokesman that the government had not asked to see proof of the culture minister's claims because it implicitly trusted Liapis' word, adding that these were almost as good as an admission of guilt.

"The citizens can judge for themselves," he said, adding that PASOK would discuss the issue of Siemens at its Political Council and take action when it was ready.

Regarding an attack by PASOK leader George Papandreou against the justices handling the Siemens investigation, Papaconstantinou clarified that this was not an attack on justice as a whole but "on a few judges that have violated their oaths".

He also insisted on the main opposition's claim that the case had been "rushed" to the next stage because the government was attempting a cover up, questioning whether the one public prosecutor and his single assistance could possibly have examined all 90 dossiers in the evidence file, of which only 30 had been translated so far.

[15] Papariga on Siemens case

Papariga said that "if I have understood correctly, Siemens gave 100,000,000 euros and we are now speaking sometimes of 500,000 euros, sometimes of 100,000 euros, sometimes of a typrewriter and sometimes of a trip. Without it meaning that it is indifferent to us whether there are politicians and deputies who, in any case, pay nothing in order to secure their personal effects in offices, but what happened with the 100,000,000 euros that were brought to Greece to support mainstream parties to cope with the elections and to have money for their activities. This is what is most important."

[16] Talks between Coalition-AKEL delegations

Visiting Coaliton of the Left, Movements and Ecology (Synaspismos) leader Alexis Tsipras, speaking on Thursday following talks held between a delegation of his party and a delegation of the Cyprus left-wing AKEL party, said that the Coalition's goal is to "make the Left a leading force in political developments" in Greece as well.

Tsipras said that the Coalition takes as an example the efforts and the struggle of AKEL in Cyprus "that succeeded in the framework of a conservative and an increasingly conservatised European Union to have a European Union member a leftist president."

He also expressed the conviction that the presidency of Demetris Christofias is a considerable opportunity for a viable, workable and just solution to be found for the issue of Cyprus.

Tsipras also said that in the talks with AKEL's delegation his party expressed its solidarity and conveyed its assessments regarding current developments, concern over international developments, the international economic recession and developments in the EU, as well as developments on the Greek political stage.

[17] PASOK MP blames gov't for lack of strategic planning

In a press conference at the party headquarters in Athens, Gerekou accused the government of lacking strategic planning in the sector of tourism, adding that the tourism development ministry is the "weakest ministry, with limited potential and funds and an unclear jurisdiction."

[18] Most Greeks opposed to nuclear power

Greeks are overwhelmingly opposed to the use of nuclear power stations to generate electricity, with 79 percent rejecting nuclear power in a Eurobarometer poll released on Thursday.

In the 27 EU member-states as a whole, by contrast, opposition to nuclear power runs at roughly 45 percent.

Roughly one third of electric power generated in the EU is currently produced by nuclear power stations, while more than seven in 10 Europeans, or 74 percent, say they are not informed on nuclear power and the repercussions of radioactive waste. This figure is slightly higher in Greece, where 76 percent say they have minimal information on these issues.

Around 18 percent of Greeks are in favour of using nuclear power stations to generate electricity, compared to 44 percent of EU citizens throughout the Community. This puts Greeks among the strongest opponents of nuclear power in the EU, just after Cypriots (80 percent against) and Austrians (83 percent against).

Most in favour are citizens of countries that already possess nuclear power plants, such as Czechs and Lithuanians (64 percent for), Hungarians and Bulgarians (63 percent for), Swedes (62 percent for) and Finns (61 percent for).

The majority of Greeks, or 63 percent, agree that the use of nuclear power would help the EU differentiate its energy sources, while 32 percent disagree. This is close to the EU average, where 64 percent agree and 21 percent disagree.

On reducing dependence on oil, 57 percent of Greeks believe that greater use of nuclear power would help in this direction, compared with 63 percent of Europeans, while 41 percent of Greeks disagree, compared with 23 percent of Europeans.

Regarding the disposal of radioactive wastes, 51 percent of Greeks believes that there is no safe way to do this, compared with 41 percent of Europeans. The opposite view is taken by 32 percent of Greeks, compared with 31 percent of Europeans.

In reply to the questions "What would most concern you if a site for disposing radioactive wastes was opened near the area where you live," 61 percent of Greeks and 51 percent of Europeans said that they would be most concerned about the impact on the environment and on health, while 29 percent of Greeks and 30 percent of Europeans replied that they would be most concerned about the risk of radioactive leaks.

Nuclear power stations now operate in 15 member-states of the EU: United Kingdom, France, Germany, Spain, Belgium, the Netherlands, Sweden, Finland, Lithuania, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Slovenia, Slovakia, Bulgaria and Romania.

Even though the official EU stance toward nuclear energy remains cautious, the European Commission has proposed revising the approach on the issue of nuclear safety in the Action Plan for Energy Policy in Europe.

[19] U.S. Ambassador Speckhard holds July 4th reception

The reception was attended, among others, by Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis, Finance and Economy Minister George Alogoskoufis, Defence Minister Vangelis Meimarakis, Employ-ment Minister Fani Palli-Petralia, Deputy Interior Minister Panayiotis Hinofotis, Deputy Foreign Minister Petros Doukas, former Parliament president Anna Benaki-Psarouda, the secre-tary of the ruling New Democracy party's Parliamentary Group Yiannis Tragakis, the Parliamentary representative of the main opposition PASOK party Christos Papoutsis and the Deputies Louka Katseli and Grigoris Niotis.

Also present at the reception was the Archbishop of America Demetrios, as well as representatives of the diplomatic, business, academic and artistic sectors.

[20] PASOK MPs address event on Andreas Papandreou

PASOK MPs Andreas Loverdos and Panos Beglitis addressed the event entitled "Andreas Papandreou's foreign policy: current teachings", referring to the late party founder's contribution.

Loverdos noted Andreas Papandreou's speech at the European Socialist Parties Summit meeting held in Madrid in 1992, where he attempted to modernize the socialist message during the crucial period of the collapse of extant socialism.

On his part, Beglitis underlined that Andreas Papandreou had been a deeply pro-European politician, stressing that he had incorporated European strategy elements into PASOK as early as the 70s when he was questioning the then European Community structure.

Financial News

[21] General Assembly of Sino-Greek Chamber of Commerce

The International Specialised Exhibition of Small and Medium-Size Enterprises (CISMEF) will be presented in the framework of the Regular General Assembly. The promotion of this specific event in Greece has been assumed by the Sino-Greek Chamber of Commerce in cooperation with the Development Ministry's International Industrial Relations Department.

The Sino-Greek Chamber of Commerce is developing into one of the biggest bilateral Chambers in the country. The number of businesses that are its members now totals 910, proving once again the momentum and the prospects of business cooperation between Greece and China, as well as the "thirst" of Greek businessmen for cooperation with China's vast market.

[22] Agriculture minister addresses PASEGES General Assembly

The measures include the payment to farmers within the month of the amount to be returned regarding the special fuel consumption tax. The amount to be returned covers the annual fuel consumption for farm production in its entirety.

Kontos also referred to the impressive turn taking place to biological crops and to different agriculture, as well as to the great absorption of agricultural development programmes.

[23] Greek chemical industry growing strongly, report says

Hellastat, in a report, said the sector was continuing its positive trend in 2007, when industrial production in chemicals jumped 13 percent. The sector is mainly export-orientated, accounting for more than 13 percent of total Greek exports.

Sales of 255 enterprises in the wider chemical industry -excluding pharmaceuticals- grew by an average 10.9 pct, with eight in 10 enterprises reporting higher turnover in 2007. Net profits grew an average 13.8 pct to 271.7 million euros (with

Neochimiki Lavrentiadis accounting for around 50 pct of total profits) while turnover totaled 2.9 billion euros.

The chemical industry, however, suffers from high debt burden, with the short-term bank borrowing as a percentage of sales at 25.8 pct. The sector operates with an expanded commerce cycle -more than four months- with inventories recycling almost every three months. Operating profits margin was 9.0 pct, while net profit margin was 3.3 pct in 2007, up from 2.9 pct in 2006.

[24] Hellenic Petroleum, Edison announce strategic alliance deal in power production

Timos Christodoulou, Hellenic Petroleum's chairman, speaking to reporters during a news conference, said the alliance will take the form of a joint holding company aiming to become a leader in electricity power in the Greece with an energy portfolio of 1,500-2,000 MW. The new company will also evaluate investments in the fields of renewable energy sources in Greece, natural gas production and distribution in the Balkans.

Under the deal, the new holding company will control 75 pct a new electricity production company, with the remaining 25 pct distributed among HED (a subsidiary of Hellenic Technodomiki Group) and Halcor. Hellenic Petroleum will receive 55 million euros from Edison and the holding company will receive 30.7 million euros from HED and Halcor.

Umberto Quadrino, Edison's chief executive, speaking to reporters, said the partnership will create the second largest electricity company in the Greece.

[25] Greek stocks jump 3.10% on Thurs.

Most sectors moved higher, with the Banks (5.44 pct), Oil (4.79 pct), Travel (3.87 pct) and Raw Materials (3.37 pct) scoring the biggest percentage gains of the day, while Food/Beverage (0.90 pct), Insurance (0.86 pct) and Utilities (0.25 pct) scored gains.

The FTSE 20 index jumped 4.08 pct, the FTSE 40 index ended 0.72 pct and the FTSE 80 index rose 0.43 pct. Broadly, advancers led decliners by 130 to 108 with another 48 issues unchanged.

Sector indices ended as follows:

Insurance: -0.86%

Industrials: +1.99%

Commercial: +1.45%

Construction: -0.40%

Media: +0.18%

Oil & Gas: +4.79%

Personal & Household: -0.21%

Raw Materials: +3.37%

Travel & Leisure: +3.87%

Technology: +2.37%

Telecoms: -1.33%

Banks: +5.44%

Food & Beverages: -0.90%

Health: +1.63%

Utilities: -0.25%

Chemicals: +1.71%

Financial Services: +1.66%

The stocks with the highest turnover were National Bank, OTE, Piraeus Bank and Alpha Bank.

Selected shares from the FTSE/ASE-20 index closed in euros as follows:

Alpha Bank: 17.70

ATEbank: 2.16

Public Power Corp (PPC): 19.30

HBC Coca Cola: 16.02

Hellenic Petroleum: 8.52

National Bank of Greece: 27.80

EFG Eurobank Ergasias: 14.40

Intralot: 10.00

OPAP: 22.70

OTE: 14.80

Piraeus Bank: 17.04

Titan Cement Company: 22.84

[26] ADEX closing report

Volume in futures contracts on the Big Cap index totaled 19,083 contracts worth 164.240 million euros, with 35,449 open positions in the market, while on the Mid Cap index volume was 16 contracts worth 330,3 83 euros with 130 open positions.

Volume in futures contracts on equities totaled 17,564 contracts worth 20.442million euros, with investment interest focusing on Marfin Popular Bank's contracts (2,989), followed by Eurobank (1,124), Piraeus Bank (1,121), National Bank (1,585), Alpha Bank (832), Intracom (1,157), Cyprus Bank (877) and MIG (852).

[27] Foreign Exchange rates: Friday

U.S. dollar 1.601

Pound sterling 0.805

Danish kroner 7.517

Swedish kroner 9.529

Japanese yen 169.97

Swiss franc 1.622

Norwegian kroner 8.111

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General News

[28] Former judges jailed for corruption, bribery

After a lengthy court case lasting several months, the court imposed sentences two and 20 years imprisonment on seven of the defendants. Apart from the two judges, who were led straight to jail, the court handed down suspended sentences for the other five defendants found guilty.

Specifically, Bourboulia was sentenced to serve 12 years in prison for legalising income from illegal activities (money-laundering), relating to the 40 million drachmas she was given in 2001 by businessman Sotiris Kritikos, and also for attempting to abuse her authority.

Kalousis received the stiffest sentence handed down by the court, being ordered to serve 20 years and two months in prison for passive bribery, legalising income from illegal activity, attempted extortion, breach of duty, abuse of authority and morally instigating abuse of authority, as well as concealing reasons for his recusal.

The other defendants sentenced were the lawyer Sakis Kehagioglou, who got six years for assisting in money laundering with subsequent good behaviour admitted as a mitigating circumstance; businessman Sotiris Kritikos, who was sentenced to four years and one month in prison for morally instigating an attempt to abuse authority and assisting in acts of money-laundering, again with subsequent good behaviour admitted as mitigating circumstance; Bourboulia's former husband Thomas Amorgianos, who got four years for assisting in money laundering, with subsequent good behaviour and previous good character admitted as mitigating circumstances; businessman Efstratios Valyrakis, who was sentenced to four years and six months in prison for active bribery, attempted extortion, being a direct accomplice in breach of duty and assisting in money laundering; businessman Antonis Georgiou, who was sentenced to two years in prison for bribery.

The court acquitted lawyer George Nikolakopoulos due to reasonable doubts and ship's captain Vaios Evaggelopoulos, due to an error in law.

[29] Journalist sues magistrate in Zachopoulos case

Anastassiades has accused the magistrate of abusing his authority and verbal abuse, while at the same time withdrawing a request that he submitted to the first-instance court on Tuesday that the magistrate be recused from the case.

The journalist has been called to appear before a session of the Misdemeanours' Court Judges Council in the next few days, alongside those filing civil suits in the case, while earlier on Thursday he was given a new extension to make his plea on charges of being an accomplice in breaking laws on personal data protection.

[30] Fire in Gytheio, Peloponnese

Authorities were forced to close off the Gytheio-Sparti national road due the fire, while a strong fire-fighting force was sent to put out the blaze, assisted by three water-bombing aircraft.

The road was opened again later on Thursday afternoon, after the fire in Asimi was put out and the fire brigade was continuing efforts to get the fire under control.

[31] "Green Life in the City" programme unveiled

Alogoskoufis said that the 100-million-euro pilot programme is co-financed by the EU (75 percent) and state resources (25 percent) under the 2007-2013 National Strategic Reference Framework (NSRF), while a decision on whether it will be implemented in more urban centers across Greece will be reached based on its results.

The specific programme will give solutions to environmental pollution problems, according to Deputy Economy and Finance Minister Papathanasiou, who underlined that the objective is to create a new urban reality that will make life in the city more livable.

The interventions included in the "Green Life in the City" programme concern the creation of functional public spaces and upgraded urban environment (playgrounds, routes for pedestrians, sports facilities for students and the public, tree plantings on sidewalks, city squares and open spaces, upgrading of urban forests, green rooftops on municipal buildings, projects reducing urban noise pollution, environmental awareness municipal centers).

In addition, the programme is aimed at improving accessibility and mobility in the city while promoting horizontal actions such as the preparation of technical studies for the implementation of the "Green Life in the City" programme within a time framework of 2.5 years combined with public awareness actions.

[32] Coop memo for protection of greater Athens environment

Local Union of Municipalities and Communities of Attiki Prefecture (TEDKNA) President Dimitris Kalogeropoulos referred to University of Aegean research, according to which, in 2002 "green space" corresponding to each resident was 4.7 sqm, reduced to 2-2.5 sqm in 2005.

"If Mt. Pikilo (overlooking Athens from the west) was all green it would filter the carbon dioxide emitted as a result of the various activities in the Thriasio Pedio (industrial) district, while temperatures in western Athens during the summer would have been up to 5C degrees lower," Kalogeropoulos said.

[33] 3rd International Geoparks Conference

Important decisions concerning the island of Lesvos include the holding in the city of Mytilene of the International Conference of Geoparks in September 2010, under the auspices of UNESCO and with the participation of representatives of Geoparks of the European and International Network.

The Conference will be taking place on the occasion of the celebration of the 10th anniversary of the establishment of the first Geoparks and the creation of the European Geoparks Network.

[34] Bear returned to natural habitat after car collision

Her cub is missing since the accident and in order to increase chances for them to be reunited she was released near the place where the accident occurred, and after being fitted with a GPS collar.

Contrary to initial fears following a spinal cord injury, the endangered mammal made a full recovery after being treated for five days at the Arcturos wildlife refuge and vet station. Members of the environmental NGOs "Callisto" and "Arcturos", which treated her, named the bear "Tyheri" (the Greek word for lucky).

[35] Roman era tombs unearthed in Krinides, near Philippi

The town of Krinides (or Crenides) is a town and ancient site that also includes the famed archaeological site of ancient Philippi in the Kavala prefecture in eastern Macedonia, and the seat of the municipality of Philippi.

Krinides is situated just a few kilometers from the world-renowned archaeological site of ancient Philippi, and the modern-day town sits atop the ruins of the ancient city that bore the name of King Philip II of Macedon, and consequently the accidental discovery of archaeological finds is usual in the area, according to archaeologists.

Archaeologists from the 10th Ephoria of Classical Antiquities were called in immediately after the discovery, and work would begin directly to unearth more finds and for their safe transport to the Archaeological Museum of Kavala.

According to archaeologist Thanassis Salonikios, a total of five tombs were discovered, all of them intact, as well as several more tombs that had been opened in the past. Most date back to the Roman era, while there are also finds dating to the Byzantine era. Specific dating, however, will be made following lab studies.

Salonikios, who is overseeing the works, said that there were two probable explanations for such a dense concentration of burial monuments in such a small area: the findings are either a family burial place, given that many of the tombs were found at the same depth, or the site was the center of a crowded cemetery.

Crenides, founded in 360 BC by the exiled Athenian politician Callistratus of Aphidnae in the foothills of Mt. Orbelos (Mt. Lekani, today), was a small colony of the island of Thassos.

Weather Forecast

[36] Hot on Friday

[37] The Thursday edition of Athens' dailies at a glance

ADESMEFTOS TYPOS: "(Culture Minister) Michalis Liapis responds with lawsuits to the rumours that he travelled together with (former Siemens Hellas boss Michalis) Christoforakos".

APOGEVMATINI: "European Commission directive on hospital treatment for all in Europe regulates cross-border healthcare and patients' rights".

AVGHI: "Government liable, Liapis exposed - (Ruling party New Democracy) ND affected by the Siemens scandal pendulum".

AVRIANI: "Officer heading C4I reception committee defrauds (Greek Police) ELAS of 700,000 euros - (Interior Minister Prokopis) Pavlopoulos orders his suspension".

CHORA: "10 million euro to recipients (of money in Siemens affair) with 'erased' names".

ELEFTHERI ORA: "Culture Minister Liapis responds to 'Eleftherotypia' report with livid statement and 2 million euro lawsuit".

ELEFTHEROS: "ND MPs call on the prime minister to proceed with sweeping reforms in the political system".

ELEFTHEROS TYPOS: "Black payments by Siemens in the 2004 elections campaign - Christoforakos admitted political party funding to ensure favourable treatment".

ELEFTHEROTYPIA: "Is this a rumour too? - The hotel room was indeed booked by Siemens".

ESTIA: "Institutional measures to control political money are imperative".

ETHNOS: "Tourist minister left hanging - Siemens booked the Leipzig hotel room".

KATHIMERINI: "Alarm sounds in Europe on the course of the economy - Ominous forecasts in expectation of rise in interest rates".

LOGOS: "Liapis' response over the trip to Germany - Alleges political terrorism and mud-slinging".

NIKI: "Greeks forced to take smaller vacations".

RIZOSPASTIS: "The people should not be entrapped in the ND-PASOK disorientation ploys".

TA NEA: "Interest rate loop suffocates market, consumers - Economy crisis deepens".

TO VIMA: "Interest rate Russian roulette - (European Central Bank President Jean-Claude) Trichet to pull the trigger - Discord over the 'medicine' that will cure the European economy".

VRADYNI: "I paid for the trip myself - Liapis launches counterattack on the trip to Leipzig".

Cyprus Affairs

[38] Cypriot Parliament ratifies Lisbon Treaty

Cyprus House of Representatives ratified Thursday the Lisbon Treaty, after a debate which lasted over five hours.

Opposition right-wing Democratic Rally party DISY, Democratic Party, Social Democrats EDEK Movement and the European Party voted in favour of the Treaty.

Ruling left-wing AKEL party voted against the ratification of the Treaty. Ecologists-Environmentalists Movement MP abstained.

In total 31 parliamentarians voted in favour of the ratification, 18 against and 1 abstained.

During the morning session, representatives of the six parliamentary parties delivered their speeches. In the afternoon session, the leaders of the parliamentary parties took the floor.

Cyprus is the 20th EU member state which ratifies the Lisbon Treaty, which has been and rejected by the Irish people in a referendum last month.

In his speech, AKEL parliamentary representative Nicos Katsourides, said that his party, which voted against the Treaty, deems that the content of the Treaty is not beneficial for the people of Europe, and especially the labour force.

He called upon the "leaders of Europe and the bureaucracy in Brussels to realize that it is high time for them to abandon Neo-liberalism and to proceed with substantive changes for the benefit of the people of Europe, especially the working people, the youth and the pensioners."

Among the negative provision of the Treaty is, according to Katsourides, the attempt to institutionalize the neo-liberal model of economic development, the abolition of unanimity in decision-making process, the rotating system for the European Commissioners.

"Having as a pretext the improvement of competition and viability of economy, we deem that attacks against social security systems will be intensified", he said.

AKEL, he added, will work so that the leaders of Europe bring those necessary changes to the Treaty that would not trigger off a negative reaction on behalf of the people or the states.

President of the right-wing Democratic Rally party (DISY) Nicos Anastasiades said that his party had paved the way for the accession of Cyprus to the EU and thus it has a clear stance towards the Treaty.

''Our party led Cyprus to the EU. Our responsible stance, as an opposition party, has allowed Cyprus to join the eurozone and today our responsible stance will again help Cyprus send a very positive message to the rest of Europe," he said.

Anastasiades said that the EU is ''a power of democracy and not a threat for democracy'' and added, "The process of European integration is necessary for the safety, the progress, the welfare of each European citizen and it is not something that is being imposed on the citizens for political reasons".

He noted that the great prospect for Cyprus "is a reunified Cyprus in a united and democratic Europe, which will constantly develop, opening new roads". "This is the message we would like to convey today with our positive vote", he said.

Democratic Party (DIKO) parliamentary representative Andreas Angelides said that every new institution concentrates various views and interpretations, as something unknown as regards its effectiveness concerning the 27 EU members.

He said that brainstorming is still going on in the EU as regards the Treaty. Furthermore, he noted that ''we can hope for a future Constitutional Treaty that will be the result of knowledge acquired by the implementation of the Lisbon Treaty. We deem that there is hope that citizens will be progressively able to demand further development and formation of a right Constitutional Treaty for the peoples of Europe,'' he added.

He noted that in a Union of 27 member states it is not easy to reach unanimous convergences, and so steps towards any amendment must be small with a view to achieve new political accomplishments, as a Europe of rights and values, of freedom, solidarity and security.

Angelides expressed hope that with the Lisbon Treaty, Europe will acquire a strong voice that will be heard worldwide.

The ratification of the Lisbon Treaty is a positive reply to the evolution of the European Union, Social Democrats Movement EDEK leader Yiannakis Omirou said.

''Our positive vote means giving our consent to Europe's course into the future," he said in his speech at the House Plenary. He added that the positive vote of his party "means exploiting the possibilities for improvement and change in the future as Europe is developing".

Cyprus, he noted, has joined its prospects with the prospects of 460 million Europeans to create a future of prosperity and social solidarity for a peaceful future.

"For the Cypriot people, the EU is our natural geopolitical and cultural space. In this space we seek political support and we aim to create the environment to promote our national interests for the survival of our people", Omirou added.

Speaking before the House of Representatives Plenary session, the President of the European Party Demetris Syllouris said his party would approve the Treaty of Lisbon because Cyprus' national interests are better promoted by enhancing European integration.

"Despite the Treaty's weakness and inefficiencies, we are convinced that European integration promotes effectively the national interests of our country", he said, and added, "Cyprus' accession to the EU has given us confidence, political and diplomatic tools, and international clout. In our struggle for freedom and survival, we need the European Union to meet global challenges and gain international political and economic clout".

Syllouris pointed out that the "Treaty of Lisbon is not the constitution for Europe which the European Party wished it to be, but it is a much improved treaty than the Treaty of Nice. It is a political compromise that leaves room for improvement in the future", he added.

The Treaty of Lisbon, Syllouris said, "aims to enhance the efficiency of European policies, the transparency on EU institutions and the involvement of the European citizen in the Union's decision-making process."

General Secretary of the Ecologists and Environmentalists Movement Giorgos Perdikis called for amendments on the content of the Lisbon Treaty, saying that there is room for improvement.

He described as "crime against democracy" the fact that the leaders of the EU �chose to proceed without taking into consideration the citizens' views", adding that the EU leaders are responsible for the ignorance and the lack of interest on behalf of European citizens as regards the Treaty.

He expressed disappointment for the fact that his Movement's proposal to organize a referendum for the Treaty in Cyprus had been rejected.

According to Perdikis, a referendum on the Treaty would have a special political importance in Cyprus.

''A referendum among the legitimate citizens of the island, would restore the law order, which unfortunately was overthrown by the logic of the separate referenda in 2004. Our people, Greek Cypriots, Turkish Cypriots, Armenians, Maronites, Latins, through the single referendum, would forge their sovereignty as a united entity", he concluded.

[39] Commission President congratulates Cyprus on ratification of Lisbon Treaty

President of the European Commission Jose Manuel Barosso congratulated Cyprus on the ratification of the Lisbon Treaty by the Cypriot House of Representatives.

"I believe that today's (Thursday) approval of the Treaty is a strong signal of how important it is that all Member States are heard during the ratification process,'' Barosso said in a written statement.

The President of the European Commission thanked the government of Cyprus as well as the Parliament for their strong support for the Treaty.

"I want to congratulate Cyprus on the approval of the Treaty of Lisbon today. I want to thank the Cypriot Government and Parliament for their strong support for the Treaty", Barosso said.

[40] EP President welcomes ratification

''Coming after the Irish Referendum, the approval by a big majority of the Members of the Cyprus House of Representatives is a very positive signal that the Lisbon Treaty is in Europe's vital interest,'' Pottering said.

''Twenty Member States of the European Union have now ratified the Treaty. Ratification should go on and all Member States should continue to express their positions on the Treaty by the end of this year. The aim is that the Treaty will have entered into force in time for the European Parliament elections in June 2009,'' he added.

''I am particularly pleased that approval in Cyprus was achieved on the basis of a wide political consensus, including both parties in Government and opposition,'' Pottering concluded.

[41] Cyprus one of Russia's major investors, says President

President of the Republic Demetris Christofias has welcomed the significant number of important Russian companies based in Cyprus and assured that he would continue to make their operations from here "as comfortable as possible''.

Addressing Thursday the 18th International Business Conference "Russia and Emerging Markets: Ways to avoid global financial crisis", in

Limassol, organised by Otkritie Financial Corporation and RBC, President Christofias said the number of Russian tourists to Cyprus has increased by 30% last year and indications are that the same increase will be achieved this year.

In the past few years Cyprus has ranked as one of the major investors in Russia, he added.

''Cyprus and its people are indeed grateful to the Russian government and the Russian people for their long standing support in the efforts to find a peaceful solution of bizonal, bicommunal federation to the Cyprus question, based on Security Council resolutions, international law and European values'', he noted.

Such a settlement, he said, will reunify the island and its people and give them opportunities for prosperity, peace and enjoyment of their fundamental freedoms in a secure environment.

The Republic of Cyprus, which is a full EU member since May 2004, is a strong advocate of growing cooperation between the EU and Russia, he added. ''We believe in the strategic character of this relationship since Russia is very important for European prosperity and security and vice versa'', he stressed.

President Christofias said Cyprus offers a strategic location, favourable tax environment, educated and multilingual workforce, excellent telecommunications, modern banking, accounting and legal infrastructure which make the country the perfect business bridge for the European Union, Russia and Central Asia, the Middle East and North Africa.

''Our country has a proven record of macroeconomic stability and has recently joined the Eurozone. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that

Cyprus has established itself as a key outpost in the eastern Mediterranean from which to launch a business or investment venture, taking advantage of the low corporate tax and more than 40 Treaties of Avoidance of Double Taxation, concluded with countries across the globe'', he added.

President Christofias said Cyprus aspires to become one of the region's economic and financial operations centres, a communications and transport hub, a destination which provides excellent medical care and a meeting place for peoples and cultures.

Moreover, he added, life in Cyprus for foreign investors and their families is pleasant with 360 days of sunshine annually and one of the lowest crime rates in Europe.

''I would like to welcome you to Cyprus and invite you, besides attending this important conference, to explore the plethora of opportunities Cyprus has to offer'', he concluded.

[42] Cypriot FM holds talks with Israeli counterpart

Minister of Foreign Affairs Marcos Kyprianou concluded a working visit in Israel during which he briefed his Israeli counterpart Tzipi Livni and Jerusalem Patriarch Theophilos III over the latest developments regarding the Cyprus problem.

According to diplomatic sources, during his meeting with Deputy Prime Minister Livni, the Cypriot FM also discussed bilateral and EU issues in view of the Paris Mediterranean Union Summit.

Livni briefed Kyprianou over the latest developments of the Middle East peace process.

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