The Hellenic Radio (ERA): News in English, 04-02-06

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From: The Hellenic Radio (ERA) <www.ert.gr/>

CONTENTS

[01] Moscow metro blast kills 39

A bomb blast ripped through a packed Moscow underground train in the early rush-hour today, killing at least 39 passengers and wounding more than 100. Police called the blast a "terrorist act" and President Vladimir Putin accused a Chechen rebel leader of being behind the explosion.

[02] EU Commissioner confident of Cyprus reunification deal before May 1

EU Enlargement Commissioenr Guenter Verheugen has said he is "confident" that a deal to reunite Cyprus will be struck before it joins the European Union on May 1. UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan has invited Greek and Turkish Cypriot leaders to New York next Tuesday for a renewed effort to resume disrupted talks. Verheugen said a resumption of talks meant that "both parties had already agreed" there would be a settlement.

[03] Greece's readiness tested for possible terrorist attacks during Games

Greek forces began a series of mock terrorist attacks today to test the country's readiness for potential threats during the Athens Olympics in August. More than 1,000 police, coast guard and fire officers will take part in the 3-day exercise. They will practise what to do in the event of chemical, biological or nuclear attacks.

[04] Communist party urges solution to dock workers' problems

Communist party General Secretary Aleka Papariga today called for an immediate solution to the problems faced by dock workers, during her tour of the port of Piraeus. She also took the opportunity to comment on and criticize the ruling Pasok party.

[05] Karamanlis reiterates ND's support for Athens Olyampics

Visiting the Peace and Friendship Stadium today, main opposition New Democracy leader Costas Karamanlis reiterated his partys active support for preparations and completion of the 2004 Olympic Games projects. He emphasized that the major aim was the success of the Athens Olympics, and this meant putting aside any omissions and delays.

[06] Pasok congress approves Papandreou's candidacy

The majority of delegates at todays Pasok congress approved George Papandreous candidacy for party leader, as well as the policy statement for the 4-year term 2004-2008. This includes 5 aims, involving education, employment, agriculture, health and a new method of governing the country. Prime Minister Costas Simitis also addressed the congress, referring to the work of his government, with special mention of the economy and the strengthening of the countrys international position.

[07] Papandreou outlines format for change at Pasok congress

With the words, I undertake the great responsibility for the course in the new epoch, with reforms and changes, with the citizen in the front line of the battle for a new Greece, Foreign Minister and the sole candidate for Pasok leadership, George Papandreou, today addressed the partys congress, which began this afternoon. He stressed that his aim was to ensure decentralization and transparency in public life, and outlined the priorities for a Pasok government for the next four-year term.

[08] Weather forecast

A fine and mild day is forecast, with temperatures in Athens ranging from 9 to 21 degrees centigrade, and in Thessaloniki from 8 to 19 degrees

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