Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English, 97-04-29

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From: The Greek Press & Information Office, Ottawa Canada <grnewsca@sympatico.ca>

ATHENS NEWS AGENCY BULLETIN (No. 1173), April 29, 1997

Greek Press & Information Office
Ottawa, Canada
E-Mail Address: grnewsca@sympatico.ca

CONTENTS

[01] Greece stands firm on EU-Turkey association agreement

[02] COREPER meeting

[03] Orthodox Easter celebrations

[04] Patriarch and Archbishop address Easter messages

[05] Black Sea meeting starts in Istanbul

[06] Turkish submarine spotted close to Farmakonisi

[07] Address at Marburg University

[08] Talks with Essen premier

[09] Constructive talks

[10] Invitation to Kohl

[11] Pangalos christens daughter of murdered Greek Cypriot

[12] Premier addresses message to expatriate Greeks

[13] Easter exodus claims 33 lives

[14] Defense Minister visits Greek troops stationed in Albania

[15] ESP leaders' meeting at The Hague

[16] Greece rated EU's poorest country

[17] Increased patrols along Corfu coast after Greek officer shot and killed

[18] Greek Raiding Forces reservists to cross Aegean

[01] Greece stands firm on EU-Turkey association agreement

Athens, 29/4/1997 (ANA)

Greece, which is not opposed to Turkey's European orientation and pursues rapprochement with the neighbouring country and has made a series of goodwill gestures towards Ankara, has stated that it will not lift, at today's Association Council, its veto f or the financial protocol unless Turkey responds to the preconditions set by the EU itself.

The Dutch EU presidency has made intensive efforts to have Ankara persuaded to make a statement with which it will accept the conditions set by the "15". The statement, if made, will have the nature of a positive response to the Greek side which has requested from Turkey respect for international treaties governing relations between Greece and Turkey and the lifting of threats of war and the use of force.

In the light of these developments and internal political fluidity in Turkey due to the feud between the generals and the government of Islamist Prime Minister Necmettin Erbakan, an exploratory meeting between Mr. Pangalos and Ms. Ciller cannot be ruled out in Luxembourg today despite the fact that such a meeting has not been scheduled.

Turkish Foreign Ministry spokesman Omer Akbel did not rule out the possibility of a meeting between Ms. Ciller and Mr. Pangalos which might be arranged at the last moment. Mr. Akbel said that the Dutch presidency is working actively to secure success for the session and added that "we are maintaining co-operation with the Netherlands and we believe that if there is support from the Greek side, the efforts might succeed."

Mr. Pangalos and Ms. Ciller might meet in Istanbul tomorrow on the sidelines of the Black Sea Co-operation Organization's session which started with the participation of Albania, Azerbaijan, Bulgaria, Armenia, Georgia, Moldova, Romania, Russia, Ukraine, Turkey and Greece.

Mr. Pangalos is expected to arrive in Istanbul tomorrow.

The session, under the sponsorship of Turkish President Suleyman Demirel, is expected to be attended by senior officials from member-states, as well as the presidents of certain countries participating.

[02] COREPER meeting

Brussels, 29/4/1997 (ANA/M. Spinthourakis)

The EU Dutch presidency has included a paragraph in the common position which the 15 ministers will be discussing today which mentions that EU funds which Turkey is entitled to by virtue of the Customs Union agreement with the EU will be disbursed "immediately", while Greece believes that these funds can be disbursed as soon as the presidency's efforts produce results so that Turkey will respond to what is contained in the decision taken on July 15.

Another issue remaining vague is the content of the European Union Association-Poland Council planned for today due to reservations raised by certain member-states, primarily Spain, in relation to farm products.

On the contrary, the signing of an economic co-operation agreement between the EU and the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM) is considered almost certain, as well as the convening of the EU Association Council with Bulgaria.

Today's session of EU Foreign Ministers is also expected to examine the Albanian issue, the situation in the Middle East and economic relations with Serbia.

[03] Orthodox Easter celebrations

Athens, 29/4/1997 (ANA)

President Kostis Stephanopoulos visited army camps in Missolongi on Sunday and in Tripoli, in the Peloponnese, yesterday. Similar visits to army camps were also paid by political party leaders.

[04] Patriarch and Archbishop address Easter messages

Athens, 29/4/1997 (ANA)

"Resurrection, therefore, light and happiness. And where all are invited to the happiness of the Lord, where nobody remains starving, lamenting or weeping, it is there where man and all humanity is saved," the message said.

In a similar message, Archbishop of Athens and all Greece Serapheim termed the life-giving tomb of the resurrected Lord a spiritual sun and a source of grace and sanctification of people.

"The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the greatest historical event in the world and contains the significance of entity and salvation for man. The resurrection alerts our ancestors Adam and Eve, as well as every christened Christian who longs for redemption and salvation from sin, decline and death," his message said.

[05] Black Sea meeting starts in Istanbul

Istanbul, 29/4/1997 (ANA/A. Kourkoulas)

The meeting, under the sponsorship of Turkish President Suleyman Demirel, is expected to be attended by senior officials from member-states, while the presidents of some of the countries participating are also expected. More than 600 people are expected in all.

The Turkish presidency started on October 25, 1996, and over this period a conference for Transport Ministers was organized in co-operation with the initiative group from central Europe. The role of Greece, being an important economy and a European Union member-state, as well as the role of Russia as a major power in the region, are emerging from the course of the Black Sea Co-operation Organization's work.

Greece, Russia and Turkey, which took the initiative to establish the organization, constitute the main poles of the emerging regional co-operation system, analysts say and stress the great potential contained in this regional co-operation. The meeting will pay particular attention to energy, transport, telecommunications and environmental issues.

The 9th session of Black Sea Co-operation Organization Foreign Ministers will be presided over by Turkish Foreign Minister Tansu Ciller, who might have a meeting with Greek Foreign Minister Theodoros Pangalos who is expected to arrive in Istanbul tomorrow.

[06] Turkish submarine spotted close to Farmakonisi

Athens, 29/4/1997 (ANA)

Because the submarine, possibly due to weather conditions, approached the coast of the island closer than regulations allow, the soldiers fired warning shots in the air in accordance with standing orders. According to defense ministry sources, Hellenic Navy vessels monitored the course of the submarine from a discreet distance.

[07] Address at Marburg University

Bonn, 29/4/1997 (ANA/P. Stangos)

At the same time, the premier underlined the preconditions for such a dialogue, namely that Turkey abandons all threats or use of force and accepts "the activation of an international body with jurisdiction" for resolving differences.

Mr. Simitis made clear however that the party whose territorial integrity was being disputed did not have any obligation to enter into negotiations.

On the contrary, he said, the party which puts forward the relevant claims is obliged to have recourse to the International Court at the Hague and await its decision.

The premier was addressing an audience at Marburg University where he was awarded an honorary doctorate.

The official part of Mr. Simitis' visit to Germany ended on Thursday with talks with German Chancellor Helmut Kohl and Foreign Minister Klaus Kinkel focusing on Greek-Turkish relations and European Union issues.

The main part of Mr. Simitis' address at Marburg University focused on the Greek government's European perspective.

The economic convergence program being implemented by the government since 1996, he said, would gradually lead Greece by 1998 to the fulfillment of conditions for the country's accession to EMU. Mr. Simitis based this assessment on the Greek economy's progress during the last three years, particularly the curtailment of the public deficit by 6.5 per cent, the drop in inflation from 12 per cent in December 1993 to 6.8 per cent in February 1997 and the rate of growth of GDP which now stands at 2.5 per cent, from -1 per cent in 1993. The premier noted that this progress had been achieved without any wage freezes or dramatic increase in unemployment.

Among the government's targets for 1997, Mr. Simitis said, was a further drop in the public deficit to 4.2 per cent, GDP growth of 3 per cent and inflation of 5 per cent.

Although the prospects for the Greek economy were good, Mr. Simitis told his audience, the country's increased defense spending may place pressure on the main indicators of public finances.

[08] Talks with Essen premier

Wiesbaden, 29/4/1997 (ANA/P. Stangos)

In a private meeting they had earlier, the two leaders discussed the possibility of closer economic co-operation between Greece and Essen as well as matters pertaining to the European Union. They also discussed problems of the local Greek community, with a focus on Greek language education.

Mr. Simitis called for German investment in the Balkans, in co-operation with Greek enterprises, using the city of Thessaloniki as a base.

Mr. Eichel outlined the preparations made in that direction, with the upgrading of German presence in the Thessaloniki International Trade Fair and the co-operation between Helexpo, the organizing body of the Greek trade fair, and the Frankfurt Expo.

The dinner at the residence of the social-democrat premier was attended by representatives of state and private banks, chemical and pharmaceuticals' industries, the local chamber of Commerce, Frankfurt Airport and the Justice Minister of Essen.

The subject of the Greek community of Essen was discussed at length with both leaders agreeing on the creation of a "multicultural" element.

"The Greeks of Essen surely wish to retain their national identity, but should also gain a second European identity, to achieve a cultural balance," said the Greek premier.

[09] Constructive talks

Frankfurt, 29/4/1997 (ANA)

Mr. Simitis said problems were examined which are not usually discussed at European Union bodies, such as issues concerning the European Union, problems faced by Greeks working in Germany and national issues and, as Mr. Simitis said, common views were ascertained at many points.

Replying to a questioner on whether he found greater understanding in relation to national issues, compared to his visit to Germany last year, Mr. Simitis expressed the assessment "that we have proceeded a great deal".

[10] Invitation to Kohl

Marburg, 29/4/1997 (ANA/P. Stangos)

In an interview to the German radio DLF Mr. Simitis rejected criticism addressed to Greece by Germany for failing to recall the Greek ambassador from Tehran when the verdict was issued on the murder of four Kurd politicians in Berlin, attributing responsibility to the Iranian leadership for having given instructions to the perpetrators.

Mr. Simitis exercised criticism over the hasty character of recalling ambassadors which was demanded by Germany, as well as for the absence of necessary processes in the framework of the European Union in connection with the issue.

"We were of the view, and I believe rightly, that it was not necessary for us to decide at that moment but that we could have waited for two days to discuss them jointly so as not to make one step forward and two backwards," he said.

[11] Pangalos christens daughter of murdered Greek Cypriot

Nicosia, 29/4/1997 (CNA/ANA)

Mr. Pangalos came to Cyprus on Sunday to represent the Greek government, which has undertaken the child's upbringing.

Tasos' friend and best man at his wedding, Evgenios Papageorgiou, is also the godfather of the eight month-old child.

Anastasia, which literally means resurrection in Greek, was given her father's name yesterday, Easter Monday, during a ceremony at the church of Agios Georgios, in the south-eastern coastal town Paralimni, attended by hundreds of Greek Cypriots who had watched Tasos' brutal murder on TV.

In statements after the christening, Mr. Pangalos said he was moved, but satisfied and happy because the event proves that Hellenism knows how to honour those who fight for freedom and democracy.

The Greek minister sent the message to all countries dealing with the Cyprus problem that the fait accompli on the island cannot be accepted.

He reiterated Greek support and said Athens will continue its efforts for a peaceful and viable solution to the Cyprus question.

Mr. Pangalos also called on everyone to continue towards the "resurrection" of the island, divided since 1974 when Turkish troops invaded and occupied 37 per cent of its territory.

Tasos, 24, was killed by Turkish extremists during a peaceful anti-occupation march on August 11, 1996, and his daughter was born September 17.

Mr. Pangalos was due to return to Athens last night.

[12] Premier addresses message to expatriate Greeks

Wiesbaden, 29/4/1997 (ANA)

Mr. Simitis, currently on a visit to Germany, also addressed the congregation in the Greek Orthodox church of Saint George in Wiesbaden where he attended the church service on Friday night.

Mr. Simitis said he wanted to give the message that Greece is united with expatriate Greeks and that "living abroad does not mean that the bonds uniting us with the homeland stop. That the Greeks, wherever they may be, have common targets, common efforts to make and live a lifestyle which gives its individuality to all of us."

[13] Easter exodus claims 33 lives

Athens, 29/4/1997 (ANA)

The mass exodus was one of the biggest in recent years, with buses, trains and ships booked to capacity. Demand for train, ferry and air tickets rose by more than 50 percent compared to last year.

[14] Defense Minister visits Greek troops stationed in Albania

Athens, 29/4/1997 (ANA)

Mr. Tsohatzopoulos arrived in Tirana in the afternoon and visited Greek troops stationed near the Albanian capital.

Due to bad weather conditions, Mr. Tsohatzopoulos canceled his trip to the southern port of Vlore where a company of the Greek contingent is stationed.

Mr. Tsohatzopoulos also met with Albanian Prime Minister Bashkim Fino and his Albanian counterpart as well with Orthodox Archbishop Anastassios.

Mr. Fino extended an invitation to Mr. Tsohatzopoulos to pay an official visit to the neighbouring country. The date of the visit will be set through diplomatic channels.

The two men discussed issues related to the multinational force.

Mr. Tsohatzopoulos is scheduled to meet in Rome today with his Italian counterpart on the Albanian issue.

In a related development, the Army General staff announced it will conduct an investigation into the circumstances surrounding a detonator explosion in Albania, which resulted in the slight injury of an army corporal of the Greek contingent.

Meanwhile, Defense Under-secretary Dimitris Apostolakis traveled to Bosnia yesterday on the occasion of the Orthodox Easter, to visit Greek peacekeeping troops serving there.

[15] ESP leaders' meeting at The Hague

The Hague, 29/4/1997 (ANA/M. Spinthourakis)

"Developments in Turkey are alarming," Mr. Scharping said and added that although he was among those who pressured and worked for the signing of Customs Union with Turkey he feels very skeptical at present.

"I hope Turkey will be able to walk on the path of democracy so as to create strong bonds with unified Europe," he went on to say.

Commenting on recent statements by the Christian Democrats that Turkey cannot join Europe "for religious reasons", Mr. Scharping said it is a "mistaken position" and that "the problem with Turkey is not religious but political and lies with the lack of respect for democracy and freedom in this country."

Speaking to the press shortly after the end of the morning session, National Defense Minister and Deputy President of the European Socialist Party Akis Tsohatzopoulos, who represented Greece, said there is strong skepticism among the European socialists in light of developments related both to the Intergovernmental Conference and the EU's economic and monetary union.

Referring to issues of joint defense and security policy, Mr. Tsohatzopoulos stressed the importance entailed for Greece by the scheduled "absorption" of the West European Union by the European Union in the framework of shaping an EU defense policy.

With this development the main responsibility for taking decisions on defense policy issues will pass to the European Union Council, he said, adding that Greece's option to consent to a settlement of the problem of associated countries participating, such as Turkey and Norway, in processes for taking decisions in the WEU was absolutely correct, given that these countries have the possibility to influence the WEU's decisions in the framework of the NATO alliance.

"What is important is that the responsibility for decisions on European defense and security policy will lie with the European Union Council," he said.

[16] Greece rated EU's poorest country

Brussels, 29/4/1997 (ANA/P. Pantelis)

This data was included in the special bulletin published by the EU statistical service on the "rich and poor" in the EU with data referring to 1994.

The bulletin stated that in 1994 the average income per capita in the EU in ECU and Agricultural Potential Units (APU) amounted to 16,644. On the basis of 100 for the EU, Greece has an income per capita of 65 (7,193 in ECU and 10,799 in APU). Portugal h ad an income per capita of 67 (7,224 in ECU and 11,348 in APU), while Luxembourg has an income per capita of 169 (30,446 in ECU and 28,069 in APU).

Eight regions in the EU exceed the average income per capita 1.5 times. Hamburg holds first place with almost double the income per capita with 196 (37,786 ECU and 32,687 APU) with Brussels coming second with 183 (30,864 ECU and 30,525 APU).

Epirus is the poorest region with an income per capita of 43 (5,211 ECU and 7,112 APU), followed by the French overseas territory, the Azores and the Northern Aegean.

[17] Increased patrols along Corfu coast after Greek officer shot and killed

Athens, 29/4/199 (ANA)

Police said the 22-year-old officer, Marinos Zapatis, was killed when his patrol boat came under fire from the gunmen on a speedboat off the island of Corfu.

Police said the gunmen did not heed a warning to stop for a check and opened fire with automatic weapons before heading for the Albanian coast. The officer was shot in the head and died on the spot.

The Greek coast-guard officers returned the fire, and according to the police, at least three of the speedboat passengers were hit.

[18] Greek Raiding Forces reservists to cross Aegean

Athens, 29/4/1997 (ANA)

According to the program, 70 reservists in 12 inflated boats, capable of speeds of up to 40 mph in calm seas, will leave Sounion for Alexandroupoli from where they will sail for Kastellorizo on May 2.

The crossing of 1,100 nautical miles is part of celebrations marking the surrender in 1945 of the last units of Nazi armies in Europe, according to Lt. General (Ret.) Nikolaos Mangafossis, President of the Raiding Forces and Sacred Regiment Veterans.

The celebrations will culminate on May 8 in Rhodes, where the boats will arrive on their return trip from Kastellorizo.

"With the participation of our Raiding Forces reservists, we want to remind everyone that the islands of the Aegean and especially the Dodecanese were not handed over to Greece but liberated by Greek fighters," said General Mangafossis, announcing the crossing at the Club of Open Sea Yachtsmen in Piraeus last week.

After setting out from Alexandroupoli, the boats will stop at Samothrace, Lemnos, Aghios Efstratios, Plomari in Mitylini, Psara, Chios, Samos, Agathonisi, Farmakonisi, Leros, Kalymnos, Psarimos, Nisyros, Tilos, Chalki, Rhodes and finally, Ro on Kastellorizo.

End of English language section.

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