Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English, 16-07-19

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

CONTENTS

[01] Tsipras meets Moscovici, says specific measures for Greece's debt must be decided

[02] Greece closely monitoring developments in Turkey, Tsipras says

[03] Pace of reforms must not slacken, Mosovici says after meeting Tsakalotos

[04] Next elections in spring 2019, gov't spokeswoman says

[05] Moscovici addresses MPs, pledges 'unceasing' support for Greek efforts to solve the problems

[06] Tsipras: Greece supports democracy and Turkey's elected government

[07] FM Kotzias takes positive view of EU General Affairs Council statement on Turkey

[08] Greece is the European pillar for democracy, peace, stability and security, FM Kotzias says

[09] Greece's role upgraded to pole of stability, Dep.FM Amanatidis says

[10] As Turkey is in strange situation, measures are taken, Alternate Def. Min says

[11] Events in Turkey might affect refugee crisis in Greece, Mouzalas warns

[12] International Committee of Experts on labour issues to convene on Monday

[13] Education, expatriate vote are key issues for Greeks abroad, head of Greek community in Melbourne tells ANA

[14] Parliament to begin debating proposed changes to election law on Tuesday

[15] PM Tsipras to meet heads of non-Parliamentary opposition on Tuesday

[16] Debate on medical use of cannabis in Greece begins

[17] Greek stocks end slightly lower in record low turnover

[18] Greek bond market closing report

[19] ADEX closing report

[20] Rail workers call off planned strikes on Tuesday until Thursday

[21] Three Afghans accused of the murder of 16 year old refugee at Elliniko

[22] 2016 Secret Sound Festival on Skyros

[23] Wildfire reported near Corfu airport

[24] Court acquits 17 of 32 defendants in 'Noor 1' case; sentences to be passed on Wednesday

[25] Doctors Without Borders appeal to public for financial aid with a new TV ad

[26] Five NGOs collaborate on programme for unaccompanied minors reaching Greece

[27] The Monday edition of Athens' dailies at a glance Politics

[01] Tsipras meets Moscovici, says specific measures for Greece's debt must be decided

During the meeting, they underlined the need to speed up processes for completing the second review of the Greek programme as agreed and without departures for the European social acquis, the announcement said.

Emerging from the meeting, Moscovici noted that Greece had come a long way in the last year since concluding a very important agreement with its EU partners and was well on its way toward exiting the crisis and regaining confidence. It was very important for him to visit Greece on the anniversary of this agreement "and show that the present and future of Greece is in the core of the Eurozone," he added.

"We are no longer talking about Grexit; no one is talking of this. We are talking about success and I wanted to come here one month after the visit by [European Commission President Jean-Claude] Juncker to show that the Commission stands by the side of the Greek government and the Greek people, in order to continue the reforms that are already generating results in the real economy," he said.

According to Moscovici, now was a time to leave the crisis and crisis management behind and enter a period of "normality, stability, implementation and investments."

The figures appeared to indicate that the Greek economy was improving, that unemployment was falling and that a sense of confidence was returning, while the reforms already carried out or agreed were necessary to strengthen the structure of the economy and attract investments, the Commissioner said.

"We are moving in the right direction," Moscovici added, noting that Tsipras' recent trip to China was important in this regard. This did not mean that the reforms were finished, however, since a lot remained to be done and discussed in order to complete some of the prior actions of the first review and begin talking about the second review, he pointed out.

It was also important that all sides worked together cooperatively, so that the Greek side would take ownership of the reforms and "so we are in a good position to discuss measures to relieve the debt, especially with the International Monetary Fund (IMF)," the Commissioner noted.

"My message is one of trust and self-confidence and that now is the time for implementation and investments. We must have reforms that are good for the Greek people, which protect the economy and attract more investments," he said.

[02] Greece closely monitoring developments in Turkey, Tsipras says

Tsipras underlined that the Greek side supported democratic institutions and constitutional legality. "I hope that our neighbours will soon return to stability," he said. Tsipras noted that July had been a difficult month for Europe, packing in Brexit, the lethal terrorist attack in Nice and the attempted coup in Turkey. "We are very sensitive on that issue because we had a coup in 1967 that lasted seven years," he added.

On his part, Moscovici stressed that what is happening in Turkey is very important for Europe and that Europe cares a lot about democratic legality in Turkey.

[03] Pace of reforms must not slacken, Mosovici says after meeting Tsakalotos

As for a Greek request to "relax" the primary surplus targets after 2019, currently set at 3.5 pct of GDP, Moscovici said he "did not want to have this discussion again" and that it had been raised during his meeting with Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras.

"We must put everything on the table during the negotiation that will take place in the autumn," he noted, while pointing out that the discussion on what was needed for the current programme to succeed had taken more than year.

Referring to milestones still pending, Moscovici said tail-end issues from the first review, such a new privatisation fund, the new public revenues authority and the non-performing loans (NPLs), needed to be wrapped up quickly. The prior actions for the start of the second review included labour law, growth strategy, fighting tax evasion and improving tax collection," he added.

"Countries that deregulated their labour market were able to create new jobs," he said.

Tsakalotos said that primary surplus targets will be discussed but only after "we see how it affects the needs of the economy and find a solution in that context," noting that primary surpluses, measures for the debt and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) participation in the Greek programme, could all be factors.

The minister said an economic recovery appeared imminent on the basis on existing indicators, while promising to quickly conclude the September milestones so that the second review might start as soon as possible. There had to be results on the issue of the IMF's participation, primary surplus targets and measures for the debt before Christmas, he added, announcing that six or seven important bills making major changes will be tabled over the summer.

The prime minister had asked that the Greek government be given greater freedom of movement in his meeting with Moscovici, Tsakalotos said, and pointed out the contradiction of asking for more Greek ownership while the institutions continued to micro-manage the programme. Athens had also asked for more tools to promote growth, greater flexibility in the National Strategic Reference Framework (NSRF) funds, the establishment of a development bank and measures to compensate for the loss of the EKAS low pension benefit.

Moscovici said support for those that lost EKAS was not a problem, provided it was fiscally compatible with the programme and expressed support for the IMF's return. He turned down Greek requests to change the law on bank managements, however, noting that the relevant legislation was only recently passed. He appeared confident of positive growth rates in the second half of this year and up to 2.7 pct growth in 2017 pct, provided Greece sticks to the agreements. Otherwise, he warned, the benefits will not become apparent to the people subjected to so many painful measures.

[04] Next elections in spring 2019, gov't spokeswoman says

Gerovassili also ruled out the possibility of cutting labour rights and salaries ahead of the second progamme review.

Regarding the issue of Turkey, she said that the Greek side displays the required calm and prudence and it will continue to do so without getting involved in Turkey's internal matters. "Our relations with Turkey - and I refer as Greece and EU - are governed by strong principles and certain terms and conditions," she stressed.

"Greece remains the most stable and secure pillar in the Eastern Mediterranean," she stated.

Tsipras has not stopped his contacts with his counterparts in the EU since he was elected prime minister and what is needed is "to create a left-wing coalition, the Social Democrats, even liberal progressive European forces that will try to stop a coordinated deadlock path of austerity across the EU."

The interview is available in Greek at ANA-MPA's website.

[05] Moscovici addresses MPs, pledges 'unceasing' support for Greek efforts to solve the problems

"We are not in a period of crisis management but in a phase where Greece is ...once again becoming a normal partner," Moscovici said, while addressing a special joint session of Parliament's European Affairs, Finance, and Production and Trade Committees on the topic "Building Greece's Future Together."

Talking to MPs, Moscovici placed emphasis on the need to continue and complete reforms, noting that nothing could be taken for granted or considered "given" since the dangers had not yet been eliminated.

"It is a time of strategic choices. There can be no backsliding but only support for the efforts already begun, so that they can be completed," he said.

The Commissioner said he had personally opposed Grexit proposals and always maintained that Greece's place was and remained in the heart of Europe. He noted the agreement signed between Greece and its EU partners in July 2015 had been "difficult" and that "we have to be on the alert to ensure that these expectations are fulfilled."

"We must all work together for this goal, so that these changes are lasting," he added.

On the issue of labour law, the Commissioner asked for measures while acknowledging the difficulties and the fact that "few governments have carried out so many reforms in such as short space of time as Greece."

He noted that the Greek economy had shown significant resilience in 2015, that investments were supported, exports were satisfactory and new jobs were created, while citing Commission predictions for a return to growth within the year.

Referring to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Moscovici said that its presence in the Greek programme "now and in the future is a factor of visibility and credibility for Greece."

"We want more investments, greater growth, better employment conditions, a better future for Greece and the Eurozone," he added, while thanking Greeks for their support during the recent terrorist attack in Nice.

[06] Tsipras: Greece supports democracy and Turkey's elected government

According to government sources, Tsipras underlined Greece's support to democracy, constitutional legitimacy and elected government in Turkey. Moreover, the prime minister wished the quick restoration of normality.

The same sources said that the issue of the Turkish asylum seekers will be examined as soon as possible and with full respect to the international law and treaties on human rights.

The two officials also stressed the importance of safeguarding peace and stability in the region.

Yildirim thanked Tsipras on Greece's support in the difficult times Turkey is experiencing as well as for the immediate return of the helicopter.

[07] FM Kotzias takes positive view of EU General Affairs Council statement on Turkey

In statements to Greek journalists, Kotzias said agreement was reached on three issues: that there will be a condemnation of the coup and an expression of support for the institutions and constitutionality in Turkey; that the Turkish government will be asked to take action in accordance with international law and protection of human rights; and that Turkey show restraint.

There was also a trend among Council members to also ask for the abolition of the death sentence in Turkey in order for its relations with the EU to continue, Kotzias reported.

Regarding the eight Turkish officers that have requested asylum in Greece, Kotzias said the matter had not been raised by his EU partners but that he raised it himself, in order to demonstrate the difficulties and particularities of relations between Greece and Turkey.

"We will apply European and Greek law and deal with this case on this basis, taking into account that they are eight officers that took part in the coup," he added.

Regarding the negotiations with the EU on the issue of China and the South China Sea, Kotzias said he was expecially pleased with "three exceptional results" that had been achieved.

"The first is that the wording is such that it suits Greece's interests, because it is a country with special interests as regards the implementation of the Law of the Sea and especially as regards the Aegean. The second is to deflect an effort to blame Greece if a decision could not be reached - though it was finally other countries that refused to let this decision be issued - and thirdly, the tone and wording was such that they maintain dialogue and friendly relations between the EU and China, especially those of Greece with China," he said.

[08] Greece is the European pillar for democracy, peace, stability and security, FM Kotzias says

[09] Greece's role upgraded to pole of stability, Dep.FM Amanatidis says

Referring to Turkish asylum seekers, he reiterated the Greek government's position. "The Greek legislation and the international law will be fully respected."

Amanatidis underlined that the ministers are expected to show their firm support to the value of democracy and constitutional order in Turkey, but at the same time protect the rule of law and stressed that what is important is to have restraint, end violence and restore normality.

[10] As Turkey is in strange situation, measures are taken, Alternate Def. Min says

He also expressed his hope that Turkey's stance on the refugee issue and the agreement signed with the EU would not change. "It is in the interest of Turkey not to change. The whole procedure should continue to the end. We will do what we need to do and what we have agreed to do," he underlined adding that refugee flows have not increased over the last days.

Regarding the asylum seekers, he said: "The situation is under the Greek and international law. Decisions will be taken by the judges. So, we can speak only politically. Politically, I would say, what is in Greece's interest is to solve these cases quickly and have no pending issues. Of course, some associate it with the European Union - Turkey agreement (for refugees), and this should be taken into account at political level."

[11] Events in Turkey might affect refugee crisis in Greece, Mouzalas warns

"Parliament must stand united, with concessions on the part of the ruling coalition and concessions on the part of the opposition so that we can face [any repercussions] promptly, because the problem may get more difficult," he said in response to a main opposition New Democracy question.

[12] International Committee of Experts on labour issues to convene on Monday

The committee will come up with a report which describes the way in which the institutional framework of labour relations in Greece will align with best practices in the European Union.

Among the issues to be discussed is the restoration of the collective negotiations set by the Greek government as well as the union law and mass layoffs raised by lenders.

Labour Minister George Katrougalos has reassured that the issue of abolishing the two extra salaries has not been raised while it has set red lines as regards mass layoffs.

[13] Education, expatriate vote are key issues for Greeks abroad, head of Greek community in Melbourne tells ANA

Papastergiadis said education was an important issue for Greeks living in Australia, which needed close cooperation with Greek diplomatic services.

"We already have good cooperation with the services here in Australia but we need more communication with the education ministry in Greece for various programmes. For example, programmes for the hospitality of children. It is very important to draw and bring our children closer to Greece. And this can happen via camps and these will be organised for a short period of time, with the Greek community contributing the money to send the children here. That only needs the organisation by the Greek state," he said.

Papastergiadis also called for student exchange programmes for highschool students and teacher-training programmes where teachers from Greece would train colleagues in Australia on the teaching of Greek language and culture.

Giving expatriate Greeks the right to vote in elections but also a taxation system that made it easier for expatriates to invest in Greece were other major issues for the Greek community in Australia, Papastergiadis said.

"In other words, to resolve the tax issues between the two countries so that they are not taxed in both. Because this will help investment by expatriates in Greece," he noted.

Asked whether there had been an increase in the number of Greek emigrating to Australia during the crisis years, Papastergiadis said that more than 20,000 had come to Melbourne but the majority already had ties or Australian nationality through a grandparent or spouse.

"I think we also have roughly 1,500 students in Melbourne and then there are those arriving on a visa. But this number is not large because the process takes time and most prefer to emigrate or travel to Europe," he said.

[14] Parliament to begin debating proposed changes to election law on Tuesday

The debate will be concluded with a vote next Thursday, after three evening sessions, in order to give all the parties time to fully present and explain their positions.

[15] PM Tsipras to meet heads of non-Parliamentary opposition on Tuesday

Tsipras will start by meeting former prime minister and president of the Democratic Socialists Movement George Papandreou at 13:00, followed by the Ecologists-Greens at 14:30 and the head of the Unifying Movement of the European Left Fotis Kouvelis at 15:30.

[16] Debate on medical use of cannabis in Greece begins

The group's mission is to assess the contemporary use of the cannabis and the legislative framework, and to propose feasible regulations that would make the medicinal use of cannabis possible.

It's findings will be advisory and the working group is to submit its propositions to the minister of health by October 30, 2016.

Financial News

[17] Greek stocks end slightly lower in record low turnover

Folli Follie (2.35 pct), OTE (1.39 pct) and Aegean Airlines (0.90 pct) scored the biggest percentage gains of the day among blue chip stocks, while National Bank (5.0 pct), Piraeus Bank (3.03 pct) and Eurobank (2.90 pct) suffered heavy losses. Among market sectors Commerce (2.35 pct) and Telecoms (1.39 pct) scored big gains, while Banks (3.04 pct) and Industrial Products (1.19 pct) suffered losses.

National Bank and Piraeus Bank were the most heavily traded securities of the day. Broadly, decliners led advancers by 52 to 42 with another 16 issues unchanged. Varvaresos (20 pct), Motodynamic (20 pct) and Lavipharm (16.22 pct) were top gainers, while Flexopack (10 pct), Elinoil (10 pct) and Naftemporiki (9.72 pct) were top losers.

[18] Greek bond market closing report

In interbank markets, interest rates were mixed. The 12-month rate fell to -0.061 pct from -0.060 pct, the nine-month rate rose to -0.124 pct from -0.129 pct, the six-month rate was -0.191 pct, the three-month rate fell to -0.295 pct from -0.291 pct and the one-month rate was -0.371 pct.

[19] ADEX closing report

General News

[20] Rail workers call off planned strikes on Tuesday until Thursday

Trains will be running normally throughout the rail network from Tuesday, with staff due to meet again on Friday to reconsider their stance, depending on the reply they are given by HRADF on collective agreements.

[21] Three Afghans accused of the murder of 16 year old refugee at Elliniko

They are also accused of the attempted murder against two Afghans, 19 and 31 year old, while the police investigation continues to identify and arrest their accomplices.

[22] 2016 Secret Sound Festival on Skyros

It is an annual Freestyle Music Festival in Greece that brings live dj set shows and live music performances together. "Our ambition is the Secret Sound Festival to become a meeting point for Greek and foreign producers and groups of the freestyle music scene," they said in an announcement.

This year's Secret Sound Festival will host among others iLLBiLLY HiTEC from Berlin and Dub Pistols from London. It is a three-day event full of Reggae, Dub, Bass, Jungle & Hip Hop. Parallel activities such as exhibitions, riding lessons, hiking, botany courses are included in the festival programme.

[23] Wildfire reported near Corfu airport

The head of the Ionian Islands fire brigade chief Efthymis Georgakopoulos said five municipality water trucks and 10 Corfu fire engines manned by 40 firemen were battling to put out the flames, while two PZL water-bombing aircraft were lending assistance from the air. The airport was not in any danger, he added, and flights were being carried out as normal.

[24] Court acquits 17 of 32 defendants in 'Noor 1' case; sentences to be passed on Wednesday

Among those convicted were the two Greek nationals responsible for leasing the ship, Dubai shipping broker Giorgos Bourdouvalis, who arranged for its journey from the United Arab Emirates to Elefsina, and ship owner Efthymios Yiannousakis, owner of the Filothei villa where 500 kilos of drugs were found. The two were found guilty of joining a criminal organisation and for the transportation, storage and possession of narcotics.

Three Turkish nationals were also found guilty as members of a criminal gang, while three more Greeks were found guilty as accomplices for the transportation of drugs.

The ship's owner Pantelis Kalafatis was acquitted due to reasonable doubts, as were the rest of the crew - barring one Iranian man acting as an "escort" for the heroin, who was found guilty as an accomplice in the transportation of drugs.

The court is expected to read out the sentences on Wednesday morning, taking into account any mitigating circumstances raised by the counsel for the accused. Until the court's verdict, there is no change in the restrictions imposed on the defendants during the trial, despite the public prosecutor's proposal that those found guilty should be detained.

[25] Doctors Without Borders appeal to public for financial aid with a new TV ad

Citing a need to maintain its independence and ability to help those in need in an unbiased way, the NGO recently announced that it will no longer accept any funding offered by European Union member-states or institutions. For this reason, they asked private citizens to make their support to the organization regular and dependable, without necessarily increasing it.

MSF claim that they can provide 234 vaccines against measles, receiving only one euro per week from the donations. With two euros per week they are able to provide 192 packages for treating seriously malnourished children and with three euros they can provide 70 patients with a full medical kit.

The organisation helps nine million patients in the most inaccessible places all over the world.

The ad can be viewed online here and for online donations click here.

[26] Five NGOs collaborate on programme for unaccompanied minors reaching Greece

The programme, which will last until December 2017, includes actions such as the identification and registration of 500 unaccompanied children and the running of a hospitality facility, able to host 280 unaccompanied minors temporarily or until their final settlement in permanent hospitality structures.

The 50 professionals who will work with the unaccompanied children hope to teach them the Greek language through the programme, while they will also conduct an investigation aiming to discover the reasons why such a high percentage of the youngsters cared for in Greece fail to stay in the hospitality facilities.

[27] The Monday edition of Athens' dailies at a glance

EFIMERIDA TON SYNTAKTON: Mass clearances

ELEFTHEROS TYPOS: Turkey's at the edge

ESTIA: Greece is front of a rare chance

NAFTEMPORIKI: US help to combat tax evasion

TA NEA: Refugee issue-Concerns over the EU-Turkey agreement

36, TSOCHA ST. ATHENS 115 21 GREECE * TEL: 210 64.00.560-63 * FAX: 210 64.00.581-2 INTERNET ADDRESS: http://www.ana.gr * e-mail: anabul@ana gr * GENERAL DIRECTOR: MICHALIS PSILOS

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