Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English, 13-12-18

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

CONTENTS

[01] FinMin Stournaras pleased with approval of bailout loan tranche

[02] Eurogroup approves 1 bln euro aid tranche to Greece

[03] Eurogroup president satisfied over agreement on Greek aid tranche

[04] EFSF chief on disbursement of 1.0-billion-euro in aid to Greece

[05] Tough negotiation and insistence led to deal on EAS, Gennimata says

[06] Greece and troika closer to agreement on defence industry, Venizelos says from Brussels

[07] Hellenic Defence Systems restructuring plan will lead to downsizing, says KKE

[08] Greece offers 'significant investment opportunities', PM stresses in Manhattan webcast

[09] Gov't starts negotiations with EOPYY doctors

[10] Athens and Piraeus propose that EOPYY doctors continue strike

[11] All weak citizens will be protected, gov't spokesman says

[12] Draft bill on foreclosures to be tabled this week

[13] Dev' Minister on home foreclosures issue

[14] Central bank governor: 'Greek economy to start upward trend in 2014'

[15] BoG governor calls on for political stability

[16] Independent Greeks criticise gov't, citing Bank of Greece report

[17] Key points of new National Action Plan on Open Government outlined

[18] Admin. reform ministry's reply to SYRIZA over qualifications' crosscheck

[19] President Papoulias meets with main opposition SYRIZA leader Tsipras

[20] Seven EU Mediterrenean countries form Med Group

[21] Europe must help with refugees and illegal immigrants, Greek ambassador to Bulgaria says

[22] Tripartite police, border cooperation signing cancelled by Bulgaria

[23] Former defence ministry official testifies over money laundering charges

[24] Former transport minister Liapis charged for driving without license, insurance and fake number plates

[25] New series of strikes in University of Athens

[26] Special court rules on the justices' salary reductions

[27] Defence attorney of Tsohatzopoulos' wife resigns

[28] Avramopoulos meets with new Ambassador of Romania

[29] Shah Deniz consortium signs agreement for TAP natural gas pipeline

[30] European Commission welcomes the final investment decision on Shah Deniz II

[31] Development Minister Hatzidakis addresses SEV event on industrial policy

[32] SEV chairman stresses the importance of reindustrialisation

[33] Investments in Greece on the rise, SEV says

[34] Greece sells 1.3 bln euros of 3-month T-bills, yield steady

[35] SBBE proposes the establishment of National Council of Industry

[36] NBG sees improved business climate in SMEs

[37] Intracom Defence Electronics,SAAB clinch agreement on Greek Army radar system

[38] Allianz Greece increases its share in Greek insurance market

[39] Microsoft Hellas profits and revenues down

[40] Greek annual deflation of 2.9 percent in November, Eurostat

[41] OLP sees a 2.9 pct rise in 2014 revenues

[42] Franklin Templeton Institutional reduces its stake in Jumbo

[43] Greek bourse stabilises to close with marginal losses

[44] Greek bond market closing report

[45] ADEX closing report

[46] Survey shows that 16.9 pct of Greeks under 24 are not in work, education or training

[47] International conference on genetics, geriatrics, neuroscience on Corfu on April 10-13, 2014

[48] 30th journalism awards held on Tuesday, in the presence of President Papoulias

[49] National Archaeological Museum to extend Antikythera Shipwreck exhibition until June

[50] Temporary premises for National Gallery in Goudi

[51] Thessaloniki to welcome members of the 'European Youth Capital 2014'

[52] Prosecutor to investigate OKANA rehab programme mismanagement allegations

[53] 928 undocumented migrants arrested in 47 incidents in November

[54] Greek seaman abducted by pirates south of Guinea

[55] Red Cross of Apulia donates ambulance to Kavala

[56] The Tuesday edition of Athens' dailies at a glance Politics

[01] FinMin Stournaras pleased with approval of bailout loan tranche

Finance Minister Yannis Stournaras on Tuesday expressed contentment over the green light given by the Euro Working Group for the release of a 1-billion-euro tranche of bailout loans to Greece.

"A tough phase for Greece has ended," Stournaras said. He added that this time the prior actions had been "unprecedented," with the most difficult being the negotiation to decide the future of Hellenic Defense Systems (EAS), a state owned defence manufacturer.

The minister noted that excellent cooperation with all the ministries involved had played a central role in fulfilling the prior actions.

Stournaras added that the troika of lenders is expected to return to Athens by mid-January for a new round of negotiations, with the aim of clinching a deal before the Eurogroup meeting of January 27, so as to open the way for a disbursement of the next tranche of aid to Greece, amounting to 4.9 billion euros.

"Steps toward convergence" had been made on all matters associated with the fourth review of Greece's economy, the minister said, while at the same time acknowledging that a number of issues were still pending.

As for EAS, Stournaras explained that it was a very complicated issue, owing to the state subsidies of 1.1 billion euros granted to the defense company and also the fact that the troika had to be convinced that the company should remain open.

"I think we reached an agreement that fully covers national defence needs, is compatible with competition rules and addresses the need to tighten things up and do away with deficits," he stressed.

"For the time being, we won the bet for EAS, but the company's viability will be judged in December 2014," he added.

[02] Eurogroup approves 1 bln euro aid tranche to Greece

The same sources said that the disbursement of the tranche will be automatic, since it has already been approved by the governing council of the European Financial Stability Facility (EFSF).

[03] Eurogroup president satisfied over agreement on Greek aid tranche

Eurogroup President Jeroen Dijsselbloem on Tuesday expressed satisfaction for the disbursement this week of a 1.0-billion-euro tranche of bailout loans to Greece and the fact that the country has achieved the milestones associated with it.

Dijsselbloem said that Greece has achieved the four milestones agreed with the troika institutions in the context of the third review of its economic adjustment programme.

He pointed out that "the EFSF will on this basis disburse the second sub-tranche of the fifth installment, amounting to 500 million euros. The disbursement will take place in the course of this week. This disbursement releases the remaining amount of 500 million euros related to the income that accrued on the SMP portfolio of euro area national central banks in 2012, which will be disbursed to Greece's segregated account".

He also said that he "is confident that the Greek authorities will swiftly conclude their discussions with the Troika institutions".

The Eurogroup president said that "the milestones include a number of important reforms. First, Greece has placed over 12,500 public employees in the mobility scheme as part of the strategy to make the public administration more efficient. Second, Greece has taken adequate measures to significantly restructure or liquidate three state-owned companies which were intended for privatisation. Third, a Code of Lawyers was adopted to enhance the functioning of this regulated profession. Finally, Greece took the required steps to improve the financial situation of the two main water companies, by clearing government arrears, in order to facilitate their privatisation".

[04] EFSF chief on disbursement of 1.0-billion-euro in aid to Greece

Greece is continuing to make progress in its adjustment process and this contributes to sustainable economic growth in the medium term, the head of the European Financial Stability Facility (EFSF) Klaus Regling said on Tuesday. He was speaking after the Euro Working Group approved the disbursement of a 1.0-billion-euro tranche of aid to Greece.

An EFSF announcement in Luxembourg said that its board had approved the disbursement of 500 million euros to Greece on Tuesday, after the country received a positive review and fulfilled the last of the prior actions required. It said the 500 million euros will be transferred to a Greek account within the week so that the government can cover funding needs in the framework of the budget.

Meanwhile, the European Stability Mechanism (ESM) will provide the remaining 500 million euros, derived from Greek bonds held by banks in the European system (SMP portfolio) from the profits in 2012.

With the disbursement approved on Tuesday, the total amount of aid to Greece from the EFSF amounts to 133.6 billion euros, with another 10.2 billion euros in aid remaining to be disbursed.

[05] Tough negotiation and insistence led to deal on EAS, Gennimata says

"EAS will neither close down, undergo liquidation, nor will go ahead with layoffs, and its export nature is safeguarded," Gennimata said, adding that "the deal meets mational defence needs and ensures supplies to Armed Forces."

The deputy minister said that the company will be restructured while in operation "with Greek taxpayers no longer paying a penny. Many jobs are being guaranteed, while there will be voluntary redundancy for those who leave."

"It is up to us to prove in December 2014 that the company is viable and has serious prospects," Gennimata stressed, adding that for this reason not even a single day should be wasted.

"We will stand by the side of management and workers. Together, we can succeed," she concluded.

[06] Greece and troika closer to agreement on defence industry, Venizelos says from Brussels

Greece and its troika of lenders are heading towards a jointly acceptable solution on the future of the defence industry in Greece, government Vice President and Foreign Minister Evangelos Venizelos said on Tuesday from Brussels, shortly after the European Commission's General Affairs Council.

"We cannot, rhetorically, be politically supportive of the defence industry and then have legal or technical problems arise," he said, adding, "I am glad this has been set out and we are going towards a solution."

Referring to the priority of the Greek EU presidency, Venizelos said Greece supports EU expansion and the Euro-Atlantic perspective of the western Balkans. "We will support their European perspective, as long as there are examples of good faith and compliance with European principles," Venizelos added.

On the issue of the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, the Greek minister said that it is not a bilateral issue, or an issue related to the name alone, but a deeper issue of democracy and state of law, an international issue in the UN framework and a trans-European issue of criteria of the Copenhagen agreement that all countries must fulfil."

Venizelos expressed satisfaction that negotiations over Serbia's accession to the EU will begin during the Greek presidency. "It is a very serious development, not just for Serbia's integration, but for the wider area as well, including Kosovo, because this way encourages fundamental dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina," he said.

[07] Hellenic Defence Systems restructuring plan will lead to downsizing, says KKE

"The promoted plan, presented as the result of a successful and hard negotiation, leads to the immediate downsizing of EAS and the 'entrapment' of the employees who will remain after the restructuring," KKE said.

The party also pointed out that by downsizing EAS, the country would have to increase imports of new weapons systems and increase the burden on Greek tax payers.

"This plan is tailor-made for weapons systems monopolies," KKE added, and part of the plan to create a bigger market for EU defence monopolies.

[08] Greece offers 'significant investment opportunities', PM stresses in Manhattan webcast

Greece offers significant investment opportunities, Prime Minister Antonis Samaras stressed in a webcast address at the 15th annual Capital Link Greek Investor Forum on the theme "An era of Opportunity," held in Manhattan on Tuesday.

The Greek premier stressed that a period of recovery was about to begin after Greece achieved a primary surplus for the first time, with the country in the process of jump starting its economy.

The pre-recorded webcast was addressed to hundreds of delegates participating in the forum, representing some of the largest investment firms in the United States, including banks.

Samaras reported "tangible results" from the ongoing effort for economic recovery being made by the Greek people and the government. Among the milestones in this effort, he referred to a drastic reduction in bureaucracy, especially that relating to investments, noting that the country now offered a "red carpet" to foreign investors as opposed to "red tape".

He spoke of the traditionally good ties and long cooperation between Greece and the U.S. and also highlighted an increase in the flow of tourists from the U.S. to Greece, which had helped to boost the Greek economy.

Samaras noted that, while his address in 2012 had focused on efforts to overcome the crisis, the focus now was on Greece's course toward recovery and that more and more people were talking about a Greek "comeback".

The premier also outlined the many steps taken to carry out structural reforms and changes, especially in order to boost competitiveness and improve the investment climate.

"Our efforts are yielding results," he added, highlighting the investment opportunities arising in tourism, banking, energy and farming and stressing that this was the "right time" to invest in Greece.

[09] Gov't starts negotiations with EOPYY doctors

On Thursday, there is a seperate meeting of the presidents of EOPYY's doctors unions to decide whether they will continue their strikes after December 19.

The Health Ministry has repeatedly expressed its intention to start negotiations with the doctors as soon as possible since reforms cannot wait. According to sources, the ministry is hoping for an agreement by end January 2014.

Health Ministry Adonis Georgiadis will likely meet with doctors on Tuesday to set the agenda of the negotiations. The main problems are possible layoffs within the framework of mobility scheme as well as details regarding their working status.

[10] Athens and Piraeus propose that EOPYY doctors continue strike

According to their proposal the strike will continue for four more days until 24 December.

The doctors associations from all over the country will convene on Thursday to decide on their further actions.

The Health Ministry has repeatedly expressed its intention to start negotiations with the doctors as soon as possible since reforms cannot wait. According to sources, the ministry is hoping for an agreement by end January 2014.

[11] All weak citizens will be protected, gov't spokesman says

Kedikoglou added that those who have been affected by the crisis, those who can not cope, they will be protected.

Regarding negotiations with the troika, Kedikoglou said that the government has been in tough negotiations for a week now because it has full understanding of the fact that Greek society has reached its limits. "We will not make further concessions. We have a very clear picture of the difficult situation of the Greek people. That is why we are making a big effort to achieve our goals," he underlined.

As for real estate taxes, he noted: "You will see the final form ... In 75 percent of cases, home owners will pay less, in about 20 percent of cases, they will pay the same and only a 5 percent of people will pay more, which is not expected to exceed 7.5 percent."

[12] Draft bill on foreclosures to be tabled this week

The draft bill will probably be tabled in Parliament on Thursday and its processing by a Parliamentary committee will begin on Friday, going before the plenum for discussion and a final vote on Saturday.

[13] Dev' Minister on home foreclosures issue

[14] Central bank governor: 'Greek economy to start upward trend in 2014'

Asked what a return to growth after six years of recession would mean to the country's economy and to the Greek people, who have shouldered a lot of sacrifices, the governor of Greece's central bank said, "Four years of tough efforts and sacrifices by the Greek people are coming to a close in 2013. There is of course more to be done before our effort is completed, but we are optimistic that 2014 will be the start of an upward trend."

He added, "We must continue to work hard and we must also refrain from wasting time in fruitless disagreements, but within the framework of a national agreement we can prepare our country's future better, which I for one believe can be very optimistic."

[15] BoG governor calls on for political stability

According to the report, tabled in parliament by BoG governor George Provopoulos, Greece's GDP will grow by 0.5 percent in 2014, while unemployment will fall by one percentage point.

However, Provopoulos warned of risks and uncertainties due to the polarized political climate, underlining the importance of a stable economic policy focused on structural changes. He also said that fiscal adjustment cannot rely anymore on tax increases and that tax payers should be relieved.

He also recommended speeding up efforts for restructuring the public sector through shutdowns or mergers of public organizations and businesses, imposing better expenditure control mechanisms for both public entities and social security funds so as to ensure the sustainability of the pension system, the reform and modernization of the judicial system as well as improving tax administration and tax collection mechanisms for combatting tax evasion and establishing a climate of social justice.

The Bank of Greece governor also stressed the need for speeding up privatisations to boost the business climate and attract foreign investments. Regarding developments in the banking system, Provopoulos noted that following recapitalization, banks will have enhanced credit ability in the medium term.

[16] Independent Greeks criticise gov't, citing Bank of Greece report

Speaking about the recently released interim report by BoG governor George Provopoulos, who called for no more taxes on Greek citizens, Marias said, "At a time when even the well-known loan memorandum deputy George Provopoulos takes a stance against the introduction of additional taxes, the joint New Democracy-PASOK government continues its unrestrained taxation assault against property and it plans, once again, to circumvent parliament with a legislative act that unfreezes the (seizure and) auction of homes."

[17] Key points of new National Action Plan on Open Government outlined

The action plan will be focused on three main fronts: public participation in decision-making, through institutions such as the opengov.gr website; transparency and accountability; and access to public information.

The new plan will be submitted in March 2013 to the UN initiative for Open Government Partnership.

Mitsotakis noted that "on open government issues the key-word is trust," adding that trust is necessary between the people and the organizations that will implement the policy.

[18] Admin. reform ministry's reply to SYRIZA over qualifications' crosscheck

In an announcement, the ministry expressed hope that the main opposition leader did not agree with the "inconceivable position" that opposed the measure.

"We want to believe that there is no political leader prepared to stoop so low in order to win the votes of a minority of perjured civil servants," the announcement said.

SYRIZA had criticised a circular calling for a careful crosschecking of qualifications and other criteria used by public-sector staff to get their appointments, following evidence that some percentage may have submitted fake certificates.

[19] President Papoulias meets with main opposition SYRIZA leader Tsipras

Exiting the Presidential Mansion, Tsipras expressed concern about the two very important issues, noting that the parliament should have a role and should not be bypassed through the adoption of Legislative Acts.

Responding to a question by reporters on Wednesday's discussion in parliament on SYRIZA's proposal to set up a parliamentary fact-finding committee to investigate the submarine case, Tsipras said that it will be interesting to see how the prime minister will handle the discussion.

Tsipras briefed Papoulias on the recent European Left congress and his nomination as the party's candidate for the European Commission Presidency, noting that it is a choice that honors the Greek people's struggle to exit the crisis. He underlined that he will use his candidacy to restore the country's image abroad and strengthen its negotiating ability.

During the meeting, President Papoulias said that Tsipras' candidacy marks a change in the country's image abroad.

Papoulias pointed out that it is "a personal success which has an impact on the European Left," noting that it is a force that will play an important political role in the near future.

The president underlined that he refers to Germany's Die Linke which he believes to be the stronger group in the European Left.

[20] Seven EU Mediterrenean countries form Med Group

At the Cyprus delegation offices in Brussels, the decision will give the Med Group network the coordination of all joint initiatives by the Foreign Affairs Council, and by extension, by the EU in general.

The Med Group's coordination will take place at the level of permanent representatives and foreign ministers, prior to the meetings of the Foreign Affairs Council, or, if possible, on an annual basis by an informal Foreign Ministers meeting.

Any of the countries in the Med Group that holds the EU presidency will automatically become coordinator of the Med Group. Therefore, Greece will be also the coordinator of the Med Group during its presidency of the EU in the first six months of 2014.

[21] Europe must help with refugees and illegal immigrants, Greek ambassador to Bulgaria says

Europe needs to find a joint approach to deal with the issue of illegal migration and refugees, Greek Ambassador to Sofia Dimosthenis Stoidis said in an interview on the Tuesday edition of the Bulgarian daily Standard.

"The issue of dealing with the refugee issue, according to the Greek stance, cannot be dealt with on national level or at the level of cooperation between two countries only, such as Greece and Bulgaria," Stoidis was quoted as saying. "A joint European approach and dealing with it is necessary, because it does not affect these two countries alone. Our countries may lie at the EU's external borders, but the aim of a large number of refugees is to go to other European countries," he added.

Greece was among the first member-states to raise the alarm about the issue of immigration and mentioned among other things the steps the country has taken to strengthen land and sea borders, the ambassador noted.

Countries like Greece, Bulgaria, Italy and Malta - which are on the front line of immigration - must insist on solidarity and jointly present to EU institutions a unified plan of dealing with refugees. The issue is among Greece's basic priorities for the EU presidency it will assume on January 1, 2014, he added.

The ambassador noted that Greek-Bulgarian relations were excellent in all sectors, as befit friends, neighbours and strategic partners in the EU and NATO. The completion of an agreement on air policing, the opening of a new border pass at Makaza-Nymfea, and Greek investments in Bulgaria, where Greece is the third largest foreign investor and its enterprises occupy over 50,000 people are among the examples Stoidis noted.

[22] Tripartite police, border cooperation signing cancelled by Bulgaria

The signing of an inter-state agreement among Greece, Bulgaria and Turkey on a joint Centre for Police and Customs Collaboration scheduled for Tuesday was cancelled, the Bulgarian Interior Ministry announced.

No further details were provided.

The collaboration was seen by Bulgarian media reports as the first step towards applying a recent decision between the European Commission and Turkey on the management of undocumented migrants.

[23] Former defence ministry official testifies over money laundering charges

Kantas served as alternate director for armaments purchases in the period 1996-2002.

His lawyer Yannis Matzouranis said that his client intends to say the whole truth to the magistrate for the 13.7 million dollars that were transferred from offshore companies to a Singapore bank account that appears to be owned by Kantas.

The suspect had been arrested again a few months ago and charged with bribery and money laundering over 500,000 euros in one of his bank accounts that were linked to the case of the Ermis 2 armament programme for the extension of the military telecommunications programme assigned to Siemens.

After his testimony Kantas was released on 500,000 bail and restrictions.

[24] Former transport minister Liapis charged for driving without license, insurance and fake number plates

Appearing before a police court later the same day, Liapis was given an extension until Thursday to prepare his defence and stand trial.

The case against him will be forwarded to a police court, where Liapis is expected to request an extension to prepare for his trial.

Speaking to reporters before entering the prosecutor's office, Liapis said that "it was bad timing" and "the fear of his battery running out" that brought him before justice.

He said that he had handed over the car's real license plates to the tax office for financial reasons, in order to avoid taxation, noting that he is a pensioner and that the economic crisis has affected him as well.

"I'm not saying that I'm poor," Liapis underlined, clarifying that he kept his car in a warehouse in Porto Rafti and because he was going to be on a trip to Asia he moved the car to have its battery recharged. He said that he had paid the 2013 circulation fees but the car was uninsured because he was not using it. "It was bad timing. I should receive the punishment I deserve," he said.

[25] New series of strikes in University of Athens

The decision was reached after the strike committee's general assembly to discuss future strikes, conducted with a relatively low turnout representing a minority of the workers.

Those participating in the assembly gave the representatives of the majority faction which voted in favour of ending the strike, a legal document saying that they no longer recognise the current board of directors and proclaiming elections to vote for a new board on Friday.

The current board of directors stressed that it will not support employees that do not work.

Monday was the first day of classes at UoA, though administrative offices were not functioning fully and many lectures did not start because of students' general assemblies. However UoA Rector Theodosis Pelegrinis announced that the university is operating normally.

[26] Special court rules on the justices' salary reductions

The ruling was issued by two sessions of the special court that settles court justices' salary disputes, following an appeal filed by judicial associations and individual court justices. A third session had found the controversial salary reductions to be constitutional.

The ruling of the third session is set for reconsideration, according to all indications.

[27] Defence attorney of Tsohatzopoulos' wife resigns

Kougias resigned after a decision to postpone until February 3, 2014 the trial on a petition filed by Stamati to have her sentence suspended, noting that "all legal, judicial or common sense has been abolished".

Stamati, who serves a 12-year prison term, requested to be released from prison citing serious physical and psychological problems, including suicidal tendencies.

[28] Avramopoulos meets with new Ambassador of Romania

Financial News

[29] Shah Deniz consortium signs agreement for TAP natural gas pipeline

In an announcement, the consortium said the official signing took place Monday in a ceremony in Baku and was witnessed by Azerbaijan's president Ilham Aliyev, who was joined by leaders from nations along the Southern Corridor, the European Commission and other countries.

Prime Minister Antonis Samaras was forced to abandon plans to attend after safety issues with the prime ministerial aircraft. The trip was cancelled about 15 minutes into the flight to Baku, after problems caused by instrument failure. It was not possible to arrange for other means of transport for the Greek mission to Baku in time for the signing.

The Greek delegation's visit would have involved the signing of an agreement for the privatisation of the Hellenic Gas Transmission System Operator (DESFA) between the state privatisations agency Hellenic Republic Asset Development Fund (HRADF) President Konstantinos Maniatopoulos and the CEO of Azerbaijan's state-owned oil company Socar, Rovnag Abdullayev.

The consortium said that the decision to start construction "triggers plans to expand the South Caucasus Pipeline (SCP) through Azerbaijan and Georgia, to construct the Trans Anatolian Gas Pipeline (TANAP) across Turkey and to construct the Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP) across Greece, Albania and into Italy. Together these projects, as well as gas transmission infrastructure to Bulgaria, will create a new Southern Gas Corridor to Europe."

The total cost of the Shah Deniz Stage 2 and South Caucasus Pipeline (SCP) expansion projects will be around $28bn. 16 billion cubic metres per year (bcma) of gas produced from the giant Shah Deniz field will be carried some 3,500 kilometres to provide energy for millions of consumers in Georgia, Turkey, Greece, Bulgaria and Italy. First gas is targeted for late 2018, with sales to Georgia and Turkey; first deliveries to Europe will follow approximately a year later.

Today's decision means that gas sales contracts with nine European companies will now come into effect. As a result some 10 bcma of Shah Deniz gas are expected to be delivered for 25 years to customers in Italy, Greece and Bulgaria. In addition, some 6 bcma of Shah Deniz Stage 2 gas will be delivered to consumers in Turkey, the consortium said.

According to separate sources of information, construction in Greece will begin in 2015, and the gas from Azerbaijan is expected to start transmission in 2019. The consortium has begun the process of compensation to owners of land the pipeline will cross.

The Greek section of TAP - from Kipi in the Evros prefecture borderland with Turkey and the Dipotamia border area with Albania - will total 550 km and cost about 1.5 billion euros. It is expected to create 2,000 direct and 10,000 indirect job opportunities.

[30] European Commission welcomes the final investment decision on Shah Deniz II

According to the European Commission "with this long-awaited decision, it is confirmed that Europe will get 10 billion cubic metres per year starting from 2019. All decisions taken so far - including to choose TAP as the pipeline to bring gas to Europe - were conditional on this final investment decision".

EU Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso said that the decision by the Shah-Deniz-II-Consortium is a strategic door opener for stronger European energy security and a major milestone for the diversification of energy supplies to the benefit of European consumers and businesses.

On his part, EU Energy Commissioner Gunther Oettinger noted that the pipeline will have the potential to meet up to 20 pct of the EU's gas needs in the long term.

[31] Development Minister Hatzidakis addresses SEV event on industrial policy

Addressing an event on industrial policy hosted by the Hellenic Federation of Enterprises (SEV), he said that the laws promoted by the ministry in cooperation with the World Bank provide for the utilization of the self-compliance tool in enterprise licensing, meaning that enterprises will be able to start operation by submitting a statement declaring that they will comply with the law. He said that enterprises will be checked during their operation by certified independent authorities.

Hatzidakis also presented future initiatives including the establishment of an organization promoting extroversion, the Hellenic Investment Fund, the implementation of the logistics strategy, the implementation of OECD proposals aimed at boosting competitiveness in the sectors of food, retail market, tourism and building materials, the new NSRF and the Plan on Innovation and Young Entrepreneurship that will include a number of institutional reforms and specific actions such as the Innovation and Young Entrepreneurship Network.

He said that industrial policy will be the main issue under discussion in the European Council meeting in February and in the informal council to take place in Athens in May.

[32] SEV chairman stresses the importance of reindustrialisation

"The real exit from the crisis will not be achieved through the troika's programme, regardless of how much political tolerance Greece's lenders and the Greek people demonstrate," Daskalopoulos said during a speech at a conference on industrial policy held by SEV.

Daskalopoulos downplayed the achievement of "even a small primary surplus", saying that it is certainly a positive development, but "even if it is ratified by the Eurostat in April, it will be based on fiscal compression and the downgrading of our standard of living," adding that Greek economy remains deficient.

He also raised ten priorities to converge with Europe in industrial policy, including a competitive and stable tax system, restructuring of public sector, less bureaucracy and improved extroversion of Greek companies.

[33] Investments in Greece on the rise, SEV says

The survey, based on 2,000 companies, showed the percentage of companies that have made an important investment has reduced from 63 percent in 2009-2010 to 53 percent in 2011-2012, but it is seen rising to 57 percent in 2013-2014. The survey also showed that profitable businesses are expected to increase to 60 percent in 2013 from 50 percent last year, while a 26 percent of companies expect sales growth in 2013 compared with a 18 percent in the previous survey.

According to the survey, the extroversion of Greek enterprises has increased compared to previous estimates, especially in manufacturing.

[34] Greece sells 1.3 bln euros of 3-month T-bills, yield steady

The T-bills were priced to yield 3.90 percent, unchanged from a November auction. The sale's bid-cover ratio was 1.92, down from 2.03 in the previous sale.

The amount raised included 300 million euros in non-competitive bids. The settlement date for Tuesday's auction will be December 20.

[35] SBBE proposes the establishment of National Council of Industry

According to SBBE's letter on Tuesday to Development Minister Costis Hatzidakis, the council's main duty will be the support of local producers, especially in new products, and the opening of the international markets.

[36] NBG sees improved business climate in SMEs

According to the survey, based on a sample of approximately 1,000 companies, business climate has improved and more and more SMEs turn to innovation.

Moreover, the improved business climate leads SMEs to more aggressive investment plans. Specifically, 80 percent of SMEs intend to make some sort of investment over the next two years, compared to 67 percent at the end of 2012.

Regarding funding, the situation has improved - with 31 percent of the SMEs to seek funding and 70 percent of them achieving approval of the application.

[37] Intracom Defence Electronics,SAAB clinch agreement on Greek Army radar system

The agreement provides for the provision of spare parts and immediate service in the field using Greek technicians for the Greek Armed Forces high technology radar system. In addition IDE has undertaken the joint production, completion and final inspection of the ARTHUR systems in its facilities in Koropi.

According to the announcement, IDE's and local defence industry's involvement in programmes supporting the country's Armed Forces aims on the the enhancement of security of supply, and on the main weapon systems life cycle's cost reduction.

[38] Allianz Greece increases its share in Greek insurance market

Based on data of the Association of Greek Insurance Companies, Allianz Greece managed to increase its overall market share to 5 percent from 4.5 percent at the end of 2012.

Turnover came to 153.8 million euros in the first nine months of 2013, down 1.6 percent compared to the same period last year. Operating profit fell to 14.8 million euros in the nine-month period versus 21.7 million euros in 2012.

Allianz Greece offers insurance coverage to more than 330,000 customers, having expanded its customer base within nine months by more than 37,000 customers.

[39] Microsoft Hellas profits and revenues down

Microsoft Hellas, a subsidiary of the US technology giant, said gross profit dropped 50 percent to 3.36 million euros from 6.71 million euros in the same period last year.

Earnings before taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) fell to 1.66 million euros versus profit of 5.12 million euros a year ago, down 67.6 percent.

Profit before tax reached 1.78 million euros compared with 4.49 million euros in the previous fiscal year, down 60.4 percent. Net income, after provision for income tax and other taxes, came to 0.68 million euros compared with net profit of 2.86 million euros in the same period last year, down 76.2 percent.

[40] Greek annual deflation of 2.9 percent in November, Eurostat

In eurozone, inflation rose to 0.9 percent in November from 0.7 percent in October and 2.2 percent in November last year. In EU-28, inflation rose to 1.0 percent versus 0.9 percent last month and 2.4 percent in the same period last year.

Greece is followed by Bulgaria (-1.0 pct) and Cyprus (-0.8 pct). Estonia and the UK (2.1 pct) and Finland (1.8 pct) recorded the highest inflation rates.

[41] OLP sees a 2.9 pct rise in 2014 revenues

The company expects total cost of 104.6 million euros, down 2.3 percent, while staff cost is estimated at 53.8 million euros, down 4.5 percent, OLP chairman and CEO George Anomeritis said following the approval of the 2014 budget by the company's board of directors.

The operating result is expected to reach 14.4 million euros in 2014. Profit before tax is estimated at 14.9 million euros, compared with 9.06 million euros in 2013 and 6.32 million euros in 2012 .

[42] Franklin Templeton Institutional reduces its stake in Jumbo

In a letter to Jumbo, Franklin Templeton Institutional LLC said that its stake in the company has fallen below the threshold of 10 percent as of December 12, 2013.

The total number of voting rights of Jumbo, held indirectly by Franklin Templeton Institutional LLC on December 12, 2013 was 12,728,037 or 9.8 percent while the number of voting rights before the transaction was 12,994,423 or 10 percent.

[43] Greek bourse stabilises to close with marginal losses

The Large Cap index rose slightly by 0.17 pct and the Mid Cap index fell 0.73 pct. Corinth Pipeworks (4.59 pct), OPAP (3.66 pct), Ellaktor (2.57 pct), Terna Energiaki (2.43 pct) and PPC (2.04 pct) were top gainers among blue chip stocks, while Jumbo (-4.14 pct), Metka (-2.79 pct), Piraeus Bank (-2.68 pct), EYDAP (-1.90 pct) and GEK Terna (-1.52 pct) made the biggest losses.

The sectors with the biggest percentage gains during the day were Travel and Leisure (3.37 pct), Telecoms (1.63 pct) and Utilities (1.37 pct). The sectors with the biggest losses were Personal Products (-3.37 pct), Industrials (-1.60 pct) and Banks (-1.26 pct).

Broadly, decliners led advancers by 87 to 51, with another 22 issues unchanged. Hellenic Aquaculture (20.00 pct), NEL (19.67 pct) and HOL (17.92 pct) were top gainers, while Ktima Lazaridi (-21.81 pct), Pegasus (-20.00 pct) and Selonda (19.49 pct) were top losers.

Sector indices on Tuesday ended as follows:

Industrials: -1.60%

Retail: 0.72%

Construction-Materials: 0.01%

Oil & Gas: -0.43%

Personal & Household: -3.37%

Raw Materials: -0.33%

Travel & Leisure: 3.37%

Technology: 0.43%

Telecoms: 1.63%

Banks: -1.26%

Food & Beverages: -0.01%

Health: -0.05%

Utilities: 1.37%

Financial Services: 1.04%

The stocks with the highest turnover were OTE, OPAP, Piraeus Bank, NBG and PPC.

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

Alpha Bank: 0.590

Public Power Corp (PPC): 10.51

Coca Cola HBC: 19.36

Hellenic Petroleum: 7.73

National Bank of Greece: 4.15

OPAP: 9.90

OTE: 9.35

Piraeus Bank: 1.45

Titan: 19.45

Eurobank Properties: 8.13

[44] Greek bond market closing report

In interbank rates, interest rates posted a marginal rise. The 12-month rate rose to 0.567 pct from 0.563 pct on Monday, the nine-month rate rose to 0.49 pct from 0.484 pct, the six-month rate rose to 0.39 pct from 0.387 pct, the three-month rate rose to 0.298 pct from 0.29 pct and the one-month rate rose to 0.243 pct from 0.234 pct.

[45] ADEX closing report

Volume in futures contracts on equities totaled 40,627 contracts worth 17.438 million euros, with investment interest focusing on Piraeus Bank contracts (7,628 ), followed by Mytilineos (4,553), GEK (4,232), Alpha Bank (4,056), OTE (2,826), NBG (2,668), MIG (2,466), PPC (2,211), Ellaktor (1,404), Intralot (1,248), Terna Energiaki (825), OPAP (809), Frigoglass (758), Corinth Pipeworks (706), Metka (661), EYDAP (618), Hellenic Petroleum (565), Sidenor (509), Jumbo (472), Motor Oil(444), Hellenic Exchanges (308), Eurobank (280), Titan (108).

General News

[46] Survey shows that 16.9 pct of Greeks under 24 are not in work, education or training

The survey was carried out by GSEE's Centre for Development of Training Policy (KANEP), in cooperation with the University of Crete, Greek Public Opinion (GPO) and the Foundation of Research and Technology (ITE). The results were presented during an event organized by the municipality of Ilion.

According to the survey, Greece has among the highest rates of young people Not in Education, Employment, or Training (NEETs) within the EU countries. The survey reports that there is a 50 pct increase of NEETs in Greece during the years of the recession.

The majority of NEETs in Greece are women, while young persons with lower or medium-level education, young immigrants, persons with disabilities, people with physical or mental problems and those from a troubled family background are most at risk of becoming NEETs. In addition the survey stresses that close Greek family ties play for NEETs, providing psychological and financial support that helps them persevere with efforts to find a job and averting emotional outbreaks that in many countries often result in delinquent behaviour.

The event was attended by Ilion Major Nikos Zenetos, New Democracy (ND) MEP Marietta Giannakou, Radical Left Coalition (SYRIZA) MP Apostolos Alexopoulos, Kallithea Major Kostas Askounis and Panteion University Professor Savvas Rompolis.

[47] International conference on genetics, geriatrics, neuroscience on Corfu on April 10-13, 2014

The conference will focus on the progress made in the research field, the latest scientific breakthroughs, clinical practice and pharmaceutical applications.

GeNeDis 2014 will be held under the auspices of the ministry of health supported by the European Commission. The conference organizers are the Ionian University Computer Information Department in cooperation with Open University and the Scienceview NGO, which promotes science communication and closer relations between the scientific community and society, and is the European Union of Science Journalists' Associations (EUSJA) representative in Greece.

[48] 30th journalism awards held on Tuesday, in the presence of President Papoulias

"The Botsi Institution each year awards journalists, printed publications and the media that respect the citizens' right to be informed," stressed Panos Karagiannis, President of the Institution.

"We are in times of crisis, journalism and the media are in times of crisis. This is a difficult era," said government spokesman Simos Kedikoglou. "We must create new ideas through crisis. We must insist on principles, ethics and journalism's timeless values. We must seek new forms. The electronic media can give solutions. Our goal is to improve the position of journalists," said Kedikoglou.

The head of the nationwide journalists' union federation POESY Giorgos Savvidis talked about the difficult and problems faced by journalism, whereas Athens journalists' union ESIEA President Maria Antoniadou noted that, in spite of the adversity that the industry faces, the majority of journalists proved the value of their role and mission during this past year.

The four Institution awards were given by Hellenic Republic President Karolos Papoulias to: Rena Kouvelioti of "Alpha" TV station for her revealing and exclusive reports over the past year. Andreas Panagopoulos was awarded for hisresearch into Greece's online news reports, Kostas Argyros for his series of television broadcasts on the "EU 27". The Macedonia-Thrace Daily Newspaper Authors Union was awarded for the sum of its cultural action, as an organization, but also as a contribution by journalists. The award was given to Makis Voitsidis, President of the Macedonia-Thrace Daily Newspaper Authors Union.

Parliament President Evangelos Meimarakis presented the awards coverage of Parliament, with Penelope Gkaliou at SKAI TV and radio receiving the "Yannis Fatsis" award for complete coverage of Parliament's legislative work and control and Antigoni Panelli of the ANA-MPA receiving the "Christos Pasalaris" award for ten years of objective coverage of Parliament's work, as well as the successful projection-analysis of Parliamentary issues.

Awards for financial reporting, sponsored by the Athens Chamber of Commerce and Industry, were awarded Giorgos Poulere from the newspaper "Ta Nea" for complete coverage of economic and business activity and to Christina Kopsini for her coverage of economic, labour and social/economic issues for "Kathimerini".

[49] National Archaeological Museum to extend Antikythera Shipwreck exhibition until June

"There has been a great response to the exhibition in Greece and abroad and we believe that people who visit our country because of the presidency will admire the show," the museum's deputy director Georgios Kakavas told the ANA-MPA. "The benefit is that, with this exhibition, the museum's revenues have grown from 45% to 81% each month."

The exhibition was launched in April 2012 and was initially scheduled to run for one year, while its duration has been repeatedly extended. It focuses on the famous shipwreck that yielded the mysterious AntiKythera mechanism - also dubbed the world's first analog computer wreck - that occurred at approximately 60-50 BC. The exhibits include other items of cargo on board the vessel, which may have been heading for Rome when it sank, which were mainly bronze and marble statues dating from the 4th to the 1st century BC.

The cargo was accidentally discovered in 1900 by divers from the island of Symi and was raised in two stages: in the year of 1900-1901 and in 1976 by the Greek Archaeological service and Jacques Yves Cousteau's oceanographic ship "Calypso".

[50] Temporary premises for National Gallery in Goudi

Questioned about problems that have arisen in the construction of the new building, Lambraki-Plaka commented only that "modern technology can deal with all problems." She explained that the problem had arisen when it was discovered that original studies had miscalculated the depth of the Ilissos River course that runs through the site, with the river found to be fully eight metres higher than estimated and roughly level with planned basements where the gallery intended to house temporary exhibitions or store its collection.

She appeared confident, however, that the problem will soon be addressed, pointing to big museums abroad located near the waterfront, even "museums built in the sea."

Some 120 of the 480 paintings permanently on display in the old building will be exhibited at the sculpture gallery, divided into four sections covering an overview of modern Greek painting up to about 1950.

[51] Thessaloniki to welcome members of the 'European Youth Capital 2014'

During the year, Thessaloniki will host over 130 international and local events for the youth. Conferences, seminars, competitions, labs, presentations, collaborations with international organizations, institutions and other European and world agencies, as well as the city's non-governmental organizations, are included at the "European Youth Capital 2014" program.

"Thessaloniki has 120,000 young university and college students, and this makes the city more lively. You walk down the streets, see young people and it is a pleasant feeling. This is a huge advantage that we must exploit and support," said Yannis Boutaris, mayor of Thessaloniki.

[52] Prosecutor to investigate OKANA rehab programme mismanagement allegations

In a press conference held one day after Health Minister Adonis Georgiadis asked for the resignation of OKANA president Meni Malliori, the deputy health minister said that an investigation into OKANA's finances has shown that 8.4 million euros are not properly for, of which 3.4 million euros in unused funds have completely disappeared.

According to Makri, the remaining 5.0 million euros were part of a 10-million-euro installment given to OKANA by the Center for Disease Control & Prevention (KEELPNO) to open drug addiction prevention centers and hire the necessary staff for their operation. She underlined that OKANA has presented no proof on how the money was used.

Makri also accused the OKANA president of administering drug substitutes to addicts in a non acceptable manner, clarifying that the center's doctors advised the addicts on the programme to chew the drug substitutes, instead of administering them hypoglossally, to speed up the process.

The OKANA president has rejected all allegations, responding that "the organization is open to any investigation" and underlining that there are "no black holes" in its finances.

[53] 928 undocumented migrants arrested in 47 incidents in November

In 59 separate incidents in the same months, 195 persons were arrested for attempting to exit from the country as well as 24 human traffickers while three vessels and 12 vehicles were confiscated. Police also found 66 fake travel documents.

Finally, Coast Guard intervened in 20 drug dealing cases for which 21 persons are being charged.

[54] Greek seaman abducted by pirates south of Guinea

According to the announcement, the ship had an 18-member crew and the first engineer was the only Greek national among them. The remaining members of the crew are safe on board the ship.

[55] Red Cross of Apulia donates ambulance to Kavala

The ambulance will cover needs of the General Hospital of Kavala.

Metropolitan Prokopios of Phillipi, Neapolis and Thassos who is also president of the regional dept of Kavala Red Cross travelled to Bari and received the ambulance and also attended the twinning ceremony of Apulia and Kavala Red Cross depts.

[56] The Tuesday edition of Athens' dailies at a glance

EFIMERIDA TON SYNTAKTON: Troika (of Greece's lenders) demands new memorandum with exchange freeze of interest payments for two years.

ELEFTHEROTYPIA: Rich (political) leaders, very poor country.

ELEFTHEROS TYPOS: The list with 4,413 hirings in municipalities and regions.

ESTIA: Wasteful state not a modern phenomenon.

ETHNOS: 12-month moratorium to home foreclosures.

IMERISSIA: Taxes press the Athens Stock Exchange Market.

KATHIMERINI: Unilateral decisions for home foreclosures.

NAFTEMPORIKI: Capitals to small and medium sized enterprises via corporate bonds.

RIZOSPASTIS: The people must turn its back to the political system's facelift.

TA NEA: MPs state of wealth a disgrace!

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