Athens News Agency: News in English, 12-01-02

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

CONTENTS

[01] Cruise season opens with vessel's arrival at port of Piraeus

[02] Gov't launches hydrocarbon exploration tender

[03] President: Backing for Papademos government

[01] Cruise season opens with vessel's arrival at port of Piraeus

The 293-meter-long vessel was built in France in 2010 and features 17 decks. It host up to 3,200 passengers and 1,100 crew members. The vessel also has a theatre, sports facilities and a specially designed retractable roof, ideal for winter cruises. amna

A total of 800 cruise ships have already included Piraeus in their itineraries for 2012. amna

In 2011, the port of Piraeus hosted 936 cruise ships and recorded roughly 2,515,191 passenger arrivals/departures, a 35-pct increase. www.amna.gr

The Magnifica and its captain, Giuseppe Maresca, will be welcomed by Development, Competitiveness & Shipping Minister Mihalis Chryssohoidis and Piraeus Port Authority (OLP S.A.) board members. amna

[02] Gov't launches hydrocarbon exploration tender

Candidates must submit their interest by July 2, 2012. www.amna.gr

Environment, Energy and Climatic Change Minister George Papaconstantinou said on Monday that "reducing energy dependence and security of energy supplies impose an energy policy which dynamically promotes the development of domestic energy sources. Today�s tender is another significant step towards this direction�. amna

[03] President: Backing for Papademos government

"It is my sentiment that, with the Papademos government, there is an abatement, the dust cloud has settled," Papoulias said, asked by reporters whether he saw a restoration of the climate of society's confidence in the political system.

Papoulias added that the prime minister was facing a war against him. "I see it in the newspapers, with comments that could have been avoided, since we all say and seek a lot of money from Europe," he said.

The President appeared optimistic on the country's course, noting that the economic figures at his disposal indicate that the conditions are better for dealing with the crisis, as well as the fact that during his own Christmas holiday in Germany, where he visited his children, he ascertained that the Greek businesses abroad are beginning to develop.

"Since a technocrat such as Mr. Papademos is optimistic, we should all share that optimism," the President continued.

On the need for unanimity among the political parties backing the government, Papoulias said that, from his own experience as minister in the past, he understands that a government with such breadth has difficulties. Besides, he added, the Italian government, with a much smaller size, also faces difficulties.

As for whether elections will take place before or after Easter (which falls on April 15 this year), Papoulias refrained from taking a position, referring reporters to the relevant statements by the political party leaders, but stressed that he is prepared to contribute if asked of him.

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