Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English, 97-11-05
From: The Greek Press & Information Office, Ottawa Canada <grnewsca@sympatico.ca>
ATHENS NEWS AGENCY BULLETIN (No 1332), November 5, 1997
Greek Press & Information Office
Ottawa, Canada
E-Mail Address: grnewsca@sympatico.ca
CONTENTS
[01] Southeast European leaders pledge to work for region's prosperity
[02] Simitis press conference
[03] Greek refusal to Turkish request for dialogue on "all issues"
[04] Denial over appointment of reps
[05] Yilmaz said expectations from summit fulfilled
[06] Turkish FM: 'limited, but positive message'
[07] Ecevit says discussion better than conflict
[08] Paris lauds Simitis-Yilmaz summit
[09] Washington reaction to Simitis-Yilmaz meeting
[10] Simitis-Yilmaz meeting positively viewed by NATO
[11] Gligorov insists on name issue
[12] Nano-Milosevic talks focus on education issue
[13] Yilmaz stroll through central Irakleio's streets
[14] Turkish press comments on Balkan summit
[15] Yugoslav press highlights Simitis' statements over region
[16] Balkan leaders' wives on tour of Knossos
[17] Turkish warplanes continue multiple Athens FIR infringements
[18] Tzoganis invited to visit Turkey by Karadayi
[19] President at Mytilene ceremony
[20] Improved Gov't text for 'social dialogue' committee
[21] Private universities issue debated by constitutional committee
[22] Papoutsis underlines tourism's importance for creating new jobs
[23] Calm returns to Greek money markets
[24] Athens bourse recovers half of last week's losses
[25] Monetary crisis impact greater in 1998
[26] Final decision on 1998 budget due today
[27] Greek tour operators urge new strategic on tourism
[28] Economic prospects promising, report says
[29] Training course to Uzbekistani officials by HEPO
[30] Conference on tourism, golf concludes in Halkidiki
[31] Earth tremors near Athens
[01] Southeast European leaders pledge to work for region's prosperity
Athens, 05/11/1997 (ANA)
Southeast European countries yesterday pledged to work together
to create in the Balkan region conditions for prosperity in a
framework of peace, security, good-neighborliness and stability.
In a joint statement issued at the close of a two-day summit,
the first of its kind in the region, the leaders of seven
southeast European countries, and a Bosnian representative, also
expressed their determination to protect human rights and
promote a market economy.
Participating in the summit at Aghia Pelagia, near Irakleio on
Crete were the heads of state or government of Albania,
Bulgaria, the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, the Former
Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM), Greece, Romania and
Turkey.
Bosnia's Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mihovil
Malbasic, also attended as an observer.
Prime Minister Costas Simitis, the host of the summit, told a
press conference that it had been a success, adding that all
leaders participating expressed a conviction that regional
co-operation was a precondition for peace, security and
development.
"We shall work together to create in our regions conditions for
the prosperity of our nations in a framework of peace, security,
good-neighborliness and stability," the joint declaration said.
"We are determined to pursue southeastern Europe co-operation,
on a mutual and equal basis, in the firm belief that each of us
has much to learn from the other.
"We shall promote the State of Law, the protection of human
rights, including the rights of persons belonging to national
minorities, including interethnic dialogue, individual freedoms
and a market economy that will allow the individual enterprises
to flourish and generate employment and opportunities for all
and especially for the youth," the declaration said.
The declaration affirmed the countries' commitment to the UN
Charter, the Paris Charter and the Helsinki Final Act "including
all ten principles referred therein."
These principles are sovereign equality, respect for rights
inherent in sovereignty, refraining from the threat or use of
force, inviolability of frontiers, territorial integrity of
states, peaceful settlement of disputes, non-intervention in
internal affairs, respect for human rights and fundamental
freedoms, including the freedom of thought, conscience, religion
or belief, equal rights and self-determination of peoples,
co-operation among states and fulfillment in good faith of
obligations under international law. The countries also
underlined the importance of their European orientation as being
an integral part of their political, economic and social
development and said they had agreed to promote respect for
international law.
"We believe that Europe can not be complete without our
countries and our peoples representing civilizations and
historical traditions which are essential to the establishment
of a contemporary European identity.
"European and Euro-atlantic integration are essential in
promoting the aforementioned objectives.
"We shall encourage the co-operation of the genuine
representatives of our peoples in our national Parliaments, as
well as their common intention to create a forum of
understanding and friendly relations.
"We reconfirmed our support for already existing regional
initiatives sharing the same ideals with as such as Royaumont,
SECI, BSEC, CEI."
Areas in which the countries pledged to co-operate included
science, education, culture and sports "as a means to strengthen
our mutual understanding and friendship".
They said they would also work together to combat organized
crime, terrorism, narcotics trafficking and "illegal and
irregular migration".
The declaration notes the countries' determination to intensify
efforts for greater economic co-operation, improve
infrastructures and enhance the investment climate.
For this purpose, the competent ministers will meet at least
once a year to assess progress.
"We shall promote the cross border co-operation and to that
effect we invite officials to meet regularly and Ministers of
Economy or Finance, or other Ministers responsible for it, to
meet at least once a year to review the progress achieved.
"We took into consideration different valuable proposals for the
establishment of institutes and centers for the promotion of
multilateral co-operation in various fields."
In addition, according to the declaration, the foreign ministers
of the countries will meet at least once a year "to conduct
political consultations and promote co-operation on issues of
regional stability and security" and political directors will
get together every three months for consultations.
The declaration added that the idea of establishing a joint
Secretariat would be discussed by the foreign ministers to
ensure continuity between subsequent summit or ministerial
meetings. The next summit will be held in the Turkish port city
of Antalya next October, while the foreign ministers will meet
in Istanbul in June.
[02] Simitis press conference
Athens, 05/11/1997 (ANA)
Mr. Simitis said he believed the summit had been a success,
noting that it was the first time Balkan leaders had all met to
discuss the problems of the region.
The premier added that it was the conviction of all at the
summit that without regional co-operation, it would not be
possible to create conditions of peace, security, development
and stability in the region.
"This co-operation should not be ad hoc but more permanent in
nature. This was discussed and accepted. It was also agreed that
the ministers of the various countries should have closer
contact in numerous sectors, although it is in nobody's
intentions t o create a new organization, since this presupposes
solid basis and experiences, which does not exist at the moment.
Our aim is to create a more cohesive area of political and
economic co-operation," Mr. Simitis said. He expressed the view
that the summit would have a positive effect on Greece's
national issues, stressing that any meeting in the region which
reduces the climate of antagonism "which does not befit the 20th
century" is positive.
"Of course, any kind of climate can be spoiled and this is why
the effort to build good relations must be permanent," the
premier added.
Mr. Simitis noted also that the summit had provided the
opportunity for talks at a bilateral level and discussion of
problems which for decades have bedeviled the countries of the
region. With respect to the further promotion of economic
co-operation in the region, he acknowledged that there was a
financing problem, but said it was right for ideas to be put
forward so that they could be examined in time and solutions
found.
[03] Greek refusal to Turkish request for dialogue on "all issues"
Athens, 05/11/1997 (ANA)
Prime Minister Costas Simitis clarified yesterday that he had
reacted "most negatively" to the position expressed by his
Turkish counterpart Mesut Yilmaz favoring a bilateral dialogue
on "all issues dividing the two countries".
Mr. Simitis was speaking at a press conference at the close of a
two-day summit of southeast European countries in Aghia Pelagia,
near Irakleio, Crete.
The Greek premier had talks on the sideline of the summit on
Monday with Mr. Yilmaz, which he later described as "useful".
Asked to comment on a remark reportedly made by Mr. Yilmaz after
the talks, according to which Mr. Simitis had responded "very
constructively" to the Turkish position in favor of a bilateral
dialogue on all issues, Mr. Simitis said his counterpart was
speaking in general about "constructive dialogue".
Mr. Simitis said the two leaders had "an open and frank"
discussion during which each expressed his opinion.
He reiterated that his talks with Mr. Yilmaz were "useful and
positive."
"The view that all bridges should be cut with Turkey and that
Greece should not talk tends towards increasing confrontation.
Therefore, it is detrimental for Greece, it puts the country in
the corner... Greece has reasons and arguments which it should
put forth in every direction," Mr. Simitis said.
"The worst thing is silence and confrontation," Mr. Simitis
stressed, adding that he would take Mr. Yilmaz up on his
invitation to visit Turkey "only if the prerequisites exist for
a successful outcome", clarifying that by this he did not mean
just a lessening of tension in the Aegean "but also other
matters".
Mr. Simitis reiterated on a number of occasions however that
Greece did not consider it expedient to cut off contact with
Turkey.
Mr. Simitis said he had raised the issue of Turkish violations
of Greek air space during his meeting with the Turkish premier,
adding simply that Mr. Yilmaz had presented his own view of the
issue.
On the Cyprus problem, Mr. Simitis said simply that "it was
ascertained that it is a problem which creates tension in the
region".
Mr. Simitis said he had restated to Mr. Yilmaz yesterday
Greece's long-standing position that Athens was not opposed to
co-operation between Turkey and the European Union for
political, religious and cultural reasons.
But, he continued, this presupposes the settlement of certain
major problems, including respect for international law and
human rights, and for Turkey to recognize "all the rules
emanating from international treaties."
Commenting on current Turkish military exercises in the Aegean,
the Greek premier said Greece had planned its own exercise long
before the neighboring country's.
"Turkey should not have proceeded to such action," he added.
Replying to other questions, Mr. Simitis said there had been no
developments on the issue of the name of the Former Yugoslav
Republic of Macedonia (FYROM) during his talks in Crete on
Monday with FYROM President Kiro Gligorov.
Mr. Simitis said he had conveyed the Greek position on the issue
to Mr. Gligorov, as well as Skopje's obligation to adhere to the
bilateral interim agreement.
He said Mr. Gligorov responded by saying that he had taken the
steps which he considered to be necessary.
Mr. Simitis said he had discussed with Mr. Gligorov matters
related to economic co-operation, tourism and investments.
[04] Denial over appointment of reps
Athens, 05/11/1997 (ANA)
Government sources yesterday denied that during Monday's
Simitis-Yilmaz meeting it was decided that the two prime
ministers would appoint representatives to continue the dialogue.
The question arose both as a result of Turkish press reports and
from Mr. Yilmaz's statement to a Turkish TV channel that he and
Mr. Simitis would appoint two personalities of their confidence
in order to maintain contact, rather than study themselves the
possible solutions.
The same sources said an official statement on the matter was
possible.
[05] Yilmaz said expectations from summit fulfilled
Athens, 05/11/1997 (ANA)
Turkish Premier Mesut Yilmaz said yesterday his expectations of
his talks with Prime Minister Costas Simitis and the first
summit of Balkan leaders had been fulfilled.
Speaking to reporters at the end of the two-day summit of
southeast European leaders on Crete, Mr. Yilmaz said as far as
Greek-Turkish relations were concerned, his aim was "to make a
new start" with Mr. Simitis, adding "I hope we did this".
Mr. Yilmaz said he and Mr. Simitis had agreed to speed up the
operation and implementation of "the mechanisms and agreements"
which already existed between the two countries, adding that "we
shall now think about the next steps and what additional
measures should be taken".
The Turkish premier said he was opposed to a proposal by Cyprus
President Glafcos Clerides for the demilitarization of the
island republic, one third of which is occupied by Turkey.
"I am not interested in this proposal. I am interested in more
realistic ideas," he said.
Mr. Yilmaz said "everyone wants to contribute to the solution of
this complex long-standing problem", stressing that the Turkish
Cypriot community must be treated "as an equal member of the
federal state".
Otherwise, he added, it would not be realistic to expect any
progress. On Turkey's customs union with the European Union, Mr.
Yilmaz said the EU had committed itself to promoting economic
co-operation with Ankara but had been unable to fulfill its
obligations due to Greek objections.
"This is a problem for the EU, not Turkey," adding that Ankara
did not need the money.
Asked whether he believed there was a divergence of views
between Mr. Simitis and Foreign Minister Theodoros Pangalos, Mr.
Yilmaz replied:
"We shall overcome this obstacle."
[06] Turkish FM: 'limited, but positive message'
Athens, 05/11/1997 (ANA)
Turkish Foreign Minister Ismail Cem, spoke of a "limited but
positive" message deriving from Monday's talks between Mr.
Simitis and his Turkish counterpart.
"We are going through a period in which each initiative which
reduces rather than increases tension is very positive," he said.
Mr. Cem reiterated the Turkish position that problems in
Greek-Turkish relations should be resolved through dialogue
between the two countries.
To the extent that dialogue proves to be insufficient, he added,
Turkey was open to all existing mechanisms for the peaceful
resolution of disputes as set out in the UN Charter, while not
ruling out recourse to the International Court at The Hague.
Asked by reporters about Greece's proposal that Turkey should
have recourse to the International Court concerning its claims
on the Greek islet of Imia, Mr. Cem replied:
"The Greeks want to talk about only one case and one type of
solution, while Turkey is counter-proposing all the methods
foreseen by the UN, including that of The Hague."
[07] Ecevit says discussion better than conflict
Istanbul, (ANA- A. Kourkoulas)
"Discussion is in all cases better than conflict," Turkish
Deputy Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit said yesterday in response
to Monday's Simitis-Yilmaz meeting.
"There are obviously difficult problems between us, and the fact
that Greece has the support of the European Union makes more
difficult a realistic treatment of the problems between us, but
we hope that this problem can be overcome through the process o
f dialogue," he added.
[08] Paris lauds Simitis-Yilmaz summit
Paris, 05/11/1997 (ANA/AFP)
The French government yesterday expressed its satisfaction with
the meeting of the Greek and Turkish prime ministers, Costas
Simitis and Mesut Yilmaz, on Crete and also expressed the wish
that the "current (Turkish) military exercises will take place
without incidents". "We count on the sense of responsibility of
the Greek and Turkish leaders to promote a de-escalation and
abstain from anything that could increase tension in the area,"
said the French foreign ministry's deputy spokesman Yves
Doutriaux.
"We hope that the decision reached for a return to 'the spirit
of Madrid' and a continuation of the deliberations of the
committees of experts will permit an effective opening of the
road to a permanent normalization of relations between Greece
and Turkey, two countries friendly to France, and that the
bilateral disputes still pending will be settled peacefully," he
added.
[09] Washington reaction to Simitis-Yilmaz meeting
Washington, 05/11/1997 (ANA - T. Ellis)
The US received the outcome of Monday's meeting between the
prime ministers of Greece and Turkey in Crete with reserved
optimism.
"We understand that the meeting was constructive and useful.
Each side reiterated its support for the need to decrease
tension in the Aegean and its desire to have bilateral problems
resolved. We are satisfied that the two Prime Ministers had the
opportunity to discuss bilateral issues," US State Department
spokesman James Rubin said yesterday.
Mr. Rubin said "a great deal of work remains for results to be
achieved", adding that the US will continue to work "together
with our Greek and Turkish allies", supporting their efforts for
a solution to problems.
[10] Simitis-Yilmaz meeting positively viewed by NATO
Brussels, 05/11/1997 (ANA - M. Spinthourakis)
Yesterday's meeting between the prime ministers of Greece and
Turkey has been viewed in positive terms at the NATO
headquarters.
Sources inside NATO's top echelons described the Simitis-Yilmaz
meeting itself as positive, stressing that it was important for
the two sides to be able to hold talks peacefully, in spite of
tensions in the past few days.
According to the same sources, NATO will continue efforts
through Secretary General Javier Solana to normalize relations
between Greece and Turkey on the basis of certain proposals
already submitted with the two sides.
The proposals relate to the so-called confidence-building
measures, as well as to other measures which could be deemed
necessary in future.
[11] Gligorov insists on name issue
Athens, 05/11/1997 (ANA)
The president of the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia
(FYROM) Kiro Gligorov yesterday insisted on Skopje's positions
on the issue of the name of his country, following the two-day
summit of southeast European countries.
"It is a basic right of all peoples to choose their own name,"
Mr. Gligorov told a news conference.
"No leader (of FYROM) can sign a document changing the name."
Greece objects to the former Yugoslav republic's use of the name
"Macedonia", saying it implies expansionist designs against its
northern province of the same name.
Under an interim agreement signed by the two neighboring
countries in New York in September 1995 under UN auspices,
Greece and FYROM are to proceed with discussions to find a
mutually acceptable solution for the name issue. These talks are
being conducted under UN auspices.
Mr. Gligorov stressed that the people of FYROM did not want to
identify themselves with the ancient Macedonians, "nor to usurp
the history and civilization of other peoples".
He said that at a "joint evaluation" on the implementation of
the interim accord between the two countries, both he and Prime
Minister Costas Simitis had agreed that the unresolved issue of
the name should not be an obstacle to bilateral relations.
He said his meeting with Mr. Simitis had been "an important step
forward in mutual understanding". "Mr. Simitis is a modern and
realistic politician who does not follow the policies of his
predecessor Andreas Papandreou. Mr. Simitis wants to leave his
own stamp on modern Greek history," Mr. Gligorov said.
Earlier, Mr. Simitis told reporters there had been no
developments on the issue of the name during his talks with
Gligorov.
Mr. Simitis said he had conveyed the Greek position on the issue
to Mr. Gligorov, as well as Skopje's obligation to adhere to the
bilateral interim agreement.
He said Mr. Gligorov responded by saying that he had taken the
steps which he considered to be necessary.
Mr. Simitis said he had discussed with Mr. Gligorov matters
related to economic co-operation, tourism and investments.
FYROM Foreign Minister Blagoja Hatzinski told reporters that
economic co-operation with Greece was "on a positive course".
"The difference over the name is an obstacle to the finalization
of the procedure to normalize bilateral relations", he said.
He said the Simitis-Gligorov meeting could not have been
expected to resolve the issue, although there was agreement that
the UN talks continue.
He added that Skopje had informed the Greek side of the
restrictions in FYROM that would prevent a change of the name
and that Mr. Simitis would not be visiting Skopje before a
resolution of the name issue.
According to the latest figures, trade between Greece and FYROM
is steadily improving and is forecast to reach 300 million US
dollars in 1998 from 180 million last year.
According to figures released earlier this year by the National
Statistics Service (ESYE), Greece ranks fourth in FYROM's
external trade after Germany, the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia
and Slovenia.
[12] Nano-Milosevic talks focus on education issue
Athens, 05/11/1997 (ANA)
The education issue for ethnic Albanians was the focal point of
talks between Albanian Prime Minister Fatos Nano with Yugoslav
President Slobodan Milosevic and Former Yugoslav Republic of
Macedonia (FYROM) President Kiro Gligorov.
Speaking at a press conference at noon yesterday, Mr. Nano said
he called on Mr. Milosevic to commit himself on the
implementation of the agreement on the educational issue, which
he signed last year with the leader of the Kosovo Albanians
Ibrahim Rugova, and the setting of a date for the opening of
educational establishments in Kosovo.
Mr. Milosevic avoided making any commitment and the issue was
referred to experts from the two countries.
"There must be a political will both on the part of Pristina and
the part of Belgrade to have the agreement implemented", Mr.
Nano said. In his talks with Mr. Gligorov, Mr. Nano agreed to
the signing of the 14 agreements which are still pending, as
well as three additional ones proposed by the Albanian side,
with a formula mentioning "the Albanian and 'Mace-donian'
government".
On the question of the legalization of the Albanian-language
university at Tetovo, Mr. Nano told the ANA: "I want common
educational establishments and what I requested from Mr.
Gligorov was that Albanians should be able to be educated up to
the highest level of education ".
[13] Yilmaz stroll through central Irakleio's streets
Athens, 05/11/1997 (ANA)
Turkish Prime Minister Mesut Yilmaz walked through the streets
of Irakleio, Crete with his wife and a 10-person entourage under
tight security measures.
He traveled to the city's Venetian district outside Irakleio's
Town Hall.
The group later headed to a well-known local restaurant,
greeting several Irakleio residents on the way, before sitting
down for dinner. The Turkish premier departs from Crete this
morning.
Albanian Premier Fatos Nano had earlier in the afternoon also
walked through the city's streets.
[14] Turkish press comments on Balkan summit
Ankara, 05/11/1997 (ANA - A. Abatzis)
The Turkish press expressed optimism yesterday in commenting on
the results of the first day of the Balkan summit on Crete.
Hurriyet observed that the Greek prime minister did not take
with him to the meeting with Turkish counterpart Mesut Yilmaz
"his inept foreign minister (Theodoros Pangalos) who calls the
Turks rapists".
It referred to a statement by Mr. Yilmaz that "Simitis is
sincere in his desire to resolve Turkish-Greek differences".
Sabah maintained that the Greek foreign minister called the
police when approached by two Turkish journalists on Crete. The
newspaper's correspondent in Crete Fatih Cekirge said "this
stance by the Greek minister clearly describes ... Greek-Turkish
relations".
Under the headline "Ditente in the Aegean", it also drew
attention to Mr. Simitis' acceptance of an invitation to visit
Turkey.
Another columnist in the same newspaper claims that "the most
rational solution is a moratorium, which will freeze bilateral
problems between Greece and Turkey", saying it was impossible to
resolve the problems in the Aegean at this stage.
Milliyet, under the headline "Ditente on Crete", said that the
two prime ministers had decided to defuse tension in the Aegean.
Referring to "an atmosphere of peace on Crete" it nevertheless
stressed that the two prime ministers had not managed to
overcome their differing views as to the way to resolve
problems".
Cumhurriyet emphasized Greece's insistence on the International
Court of Justice in the Hague and also recalled Mr. Simitis'
statement to the magazine Der Spiegel that Turkey was an
aggressive country.
[15] Yugoslav press highlights Simitis' statements over region
Belgrade, 05/11/1997 (ANA - M. Mouratidis)
Most of the Yugoslav press yesterday stressed Prime Minister
Costas Simitis' reference to what he said were the three major
challenges facing the countries of the region.
Mr. Simitis called globalisation of countries' economies, the
search for new approaches to all crucial problems, as well as
the "fragile" matters concerning peace, stability and security
in the region as the three major challenges.
Particular reference was made to bilateral contacts held by
Yugoslav President Slobodan Milosevic, especially with Albanian
Prime Minister Fatos Nano, which was termed as historic.
With regard to the meeting between the Greek and Turkish prime
ministers, the Yugoslav press observed that while Mr. Simitis
had called the meeting "beneficial", the two prime ministers had
nevertheless made separate statements after their talks.
[16] Balkan leaders' wives on tour of Knossos
Athens, 05/11/1997 (ANA)
The wives of leaders and ministers from Balkan countries
participating in the two-day Southeastern Europe Summit visited
antiquities at Knossos yesterday without the presence of the
wives of Turkish Prime Minister Mesut Yilmaz and Turkish Foreign
Minister Ismail Cem.
Daphne Simiti, the wife of Prime Minister Costas Simitis,
declined any comment on the absence of the two Turkish wives,
saying in reference to Ms Yilmaz that "she has her own program
as I have mine..."
The women arrived at Knossos at 10:40 a.m. and left at 11:50
a.m. They were given a guided tour by the head of the 23rd
Classical Antiquities.
Ms Yilmaz stayed at the Kapsis Hotel in the morning and went to
Irakleio at noon where she dined at the well-known restaurant
"Kyriakos."
On Monday night she dined at the traditional Cretan village of
Arolithos.
[17] Turkish warplanes continue multiple Athens FIR infringements
Athens, 05/11/1997 (ANA)
Violations of Greek airspace and infringements of Athens FIR
regulations by Turkish warplanes continued unabated yesterday.
Exactly 48 Turkish F-16 and F-4 fighters entered the Athens FIR
without submitting beforehand a required flight plan, while on
30 occasions intruders violated Greek airspace.
All Turkish aircraft were intercepted by Hellenic Air Force F-16
and Mirage 2000 fighters, as eight interceptions turned into
airborne engagements.
Sources said later that infringements of the Athens FIR were
reported mainly in the region between the islands of Lesvos and
Hios and around Rhodes, Kos, Limnos and Lesvos.
The same sources said 48 Turkish F-16 and F-4 fighters - in
groups of two and four - were all armed.
[18] Tzoganis invited to visit Turkey by Karadayi
Ankara, 05/11/1997 (ANA - A. Ambatzis)
Turkish military chief Gen. Ismail Hakki Karadayi has extended
an invitation to his Greek counterpart, Gen. Athanasios
Tzoganis, to visit Turkey. The unofficial invitation was
extended while the Turkish official was speaking to the press
here on Monday.
[19] President at Mytilene ceremony
Athens, 05/11/1997 (ANA)
President of the Republic Kostis Stephanopoulos will visit
Mytiline on Saturday as guest of the mayor of the island's
capital, to participate in events marking the 85th anniversary
of the liberation of the island from Ottoman rule.
Mr. Stephanopoulos will attend a church service and observe a
parade, before returning to Athens the same day.
Tomorrow, the president will also be in Mytilini to observe the
final phase of the "Parmenion '97" military exercise.
[20] Improved Gov't text for 'social dialogue' committee
Athens, 05/11/1997 (ANA)
The government is coming to today's final session of the "social
dialogue" coordinating committee with an improved text, aiming
to achieve an agreement which will finally be ratified by the
plenum of social partners on Monday.
Agreement will be sought on three basic issues: Firstly, wages
policy. It will be proposed to trade unions that wages be
subject to restrained increases in the coming years, based on
the inflation rate and a part of the national productivity
increase.
Secondly, taxation policy. The government promises an
overturning of the direct/indirect taxes ratio by reducing the
second category which is considered regressive. The government
will also appear willing to make a small concession on the issue
of tax breaks for wage-earners and pensioners by introducing a
limited inflation-indexing of the tax scale.
Finally, unemployment. The government appears to be adopting
specific steps, but also calling on trade unions to show
solidarity with the unemployed. Sources said measures will be
announced aiming to provide immediate relief to the unemployed
under 29 years of age and those over 55.
[21] Private universities issue debated by constitutional committee
Athens, 05/11/1997 (ANA)
Culture Minister Evangelos Venizelos and former New Democracy
deputy leader Ioannis Varvitsiotis clashed during yesterday's
debate by Parliament's committee for constitutional revision on
the issue of opening private universities in Greece.
Mr. Venizelos charged that ND, which supports the proposition,
does not explain how students will be admitted to private
universities, or whether the Constitution can allow two types of
universities.
Mr. Varvitsiotis posed the question of what will happen if large
EU-based universities decided to operate in Greece.
The minister replied that if they wish to do so, they can enter
into contractual agreements with the Athens Polytechnic
University or the University of Thessaloniki.
Deputies of the Communist Party of Greece (KKE), Achilleas
Katartzis, and of the Coalition of the Left, Photis Kouvelis,
disagreed with the establishment of private universities.
On another issue, Mr. Venizelos also said he was in favor of the
right to conscientious objection to military service being
established constitutionally. ND rapporteur Vyron Polydoras
disagreed.
The two major parties agreed that the death penalty should only
apply during wartime and only for military personnel.
[22] Papoutsis underlines tourism's importance for creating new jobs
Brussels, 05/11/1997 (ANA - P. Pantelis)
EU Commissioner Christos Papoutsis yesterday stressed that the
considerable potential offered by the tourism industry for the
creation of new jobs should be properly tapped, calling on EU
leaders to adopt specific measures i n that direction.
"The guidelines that should orient the action and the
initiatives in the tourism sector must be the creation of a new
entrepreneurial spirit, the creation of a new spirit in the
potential for professional integration, support and
encouragement to the potential adjustment to the new
requirements of the market, and finally the promotion of the
policies for equality of opportunity," he specified in his
opening address at a conference entitled "Employment and
Tourism", organized by the Commission in Luxembourg.
The EU Commissioner further argued that the continuous growth of
the service industries was particularly favorable for small- and
medium-size enterprises (SMEs).
"The tourism sector is 95 per cent comprised of SMEs. Of these,
most employ less than 10 people. Thus, this sector represents 60
per cent of total employment in Europe," he said, adding his
personal belief that "tourism is the ideal sector for the
application of integrated strategies for the creation of new
employment positions".
Finally, Mr. Papoutsis said that the European tourism industry,
with its considerable tradition, could become an effective
exporter of know-how to third countries, and stressed the need
for the formulation of a special Community policy for tourism
which would coordinate all policies influencing the sector.
The conference ends today.
[23] Calm returns to Greek money markets
Athens, 05/11/1997 (ANA)
Greece's money markets returned to normal trading conditions
yesterday leaving behind them last week's turbulence which saw
the drachma hit by speculators and interbank rates soaring to
150 percent. The Bank of Greece, the country's central bank,
reported inflows of 150 million ECUs in addition to inflows of
250 million on Monday, a sign that confidence was restored on
the Greek market.
Interbank interest rates de-escalated rapidly to fluctuate
around 15-30 percent, reflecting optimism over the course in the
inflation rate which was estimated at 4.8-4.9 percent in October.
In the domestic foreign exchange market the drachma was
considerably higher against the US dollar. It was firmer against
the DMark and stable against the ECU.
[24] Athens bourse recovers half of last week's losses
Athens, 05/11/1997 (ANA)
Greek equities soared to sharply higher levels for the second
consecutive session on the Athens Stock Exchange with market
sentiment improved by a stable domestic money market, falling
interbank rates and news of a new drop in the inflation rate for
October.
The general index closed 4.72 percent higher at 1,613.78 points,
recovering almost half its previous week's losses in the first
two sessions of the week.
Trading remained heavy with turnover at 34.7 billion drachmas.
All sector indices scored big gains. Banks rose 3.75 percent,
Insurance increased 4.32 percent, Leasing jumped 4.80 percent,
Investment was 4.49 percent higher, Construction rose 4.45
percent, Industrials were 5.33 percent up, Miscellaneous soared
7.14 percent and Holding was 6.34 percent higher.
The parallel market index for small cap companies rose 4.67
percent. The FTSE/ASE index was 4.41 percent higher at 942.48
points.
Broadly, advancers led decliners by 228 to 17 with another 11
issues unchanged.
Goody's Viochalco, Bank of Greece, Sanyo, Aegek, Bank of Athens,
Intrasoft, Intracom scored the biggest percentage gains, while
Ermis, Desmos, Zampa and Sarandopoulos Mills suffered the
heaviest losses. National Bank of Greece ended at 29,600
drachmas , Ergobank at 17,000, Alpha Credit Bank at 19,100,
Delta Dairy at 3,900, Titan Cement at 15,000, Intracom at 13,925
and Hellenic Telecommunications Organization at 6,020.
[25] Monetary crisis impact greater in 1998
Athens, 05/11/1997 (ANA)
Greece's National Economy and Finance Minister Yiannos
Papantoniou said that the impact of the recent monetary crisis
would be insignificant during the current year, but greater in
1998 and that the final burden on the economy would be
determined by the duration of the crisis.
Speaking yesterday to reporters after a meeting with workers'
representatives, Mr. Papantoniou said that the foreign exchange
crisis limited the scope for extra hand-outs by the government.
He stressed that the economy overcoming the crisis was an
important factor but noted that problems remained. These
difficulties should be dealt with through 1998's budget.
Economy and finance minister urged all social classes to work
together in dealing with these problems and that the government
would set an example by slashing public spending.
Mr. Panantoniou reiterated that the government was firm in its
pledge to secure and gradually improve workers' incomes in 1998.
[26] Final decision on 1998 budget due today
Athens, 05/11/1997 (ANA)
Greece's national and finance ministries held the last
preparatory meeting ahead of a final decision on 1998's budget
due today.
A final decision on next year's budget will be taken during a
meeting chaired by Prime Minister Costas Simitis.
During the preparatory meeting, National Economy and Finance
Minister Yiannos Papantoniou and Finance Undersecretaries George
Drys and Nikos Christodoulakis discussed last details of the
budget and specifically the issue of new taxes.
[27] Greek tour operators urge new strategic on tourism
Athens, 05/11/1997 (ANA)
Greek tour operators urged the Hellenic Tourism Organization to
draft a five-year program on tourism with the help of an
international consultant.
The aim of the program would be attracting quality tourism,
extending the tourist period to 12 months and enriching it with
new forms of tourism, Greek tour operators union's chairman
Spyros Cocotos said during a press conference yesterday.
Mr. Cocotos also urged the government to seek further community
funds to upgrade tourism infrastructure in Greece and set
European standards in the country's hotel ratings.
The union asked for special tax incentives for winter tourism in
Greece, securing air links with foreign countries and supporting
of specialized small tour operators of Greek interests operating
abroad.
[28] Economic prospects promising, report says
Athens, 05/11/1997 (ANA)
Economic prospects for the remainder of 1997 and beyond look
promising according to Alpha Credit Bank's latest forecast on
the short-term economic and financial outlook in Greece.
The decision of the International Olympic Committee to entrust
the city of Athens with the organization of the 2004 Olympic
Games has pleased the markets, representing a definite vote of
confidence on the Greek economy, the report said.
Inflation dropped substantially in September to its lowest since
the 1960s while the rising trends of oil prices and the US
dollar have been reversed, it said.
Moreover, the government's decision to speed up structural
reforms with a new timetable of privatizations also helped
sentiment. Also, next year's budget aimed at reducing the
general government deficit to less than 3.0 percent of GDP,
improved economic prospects, Alpha Credit Bank said.
The report suggested that economic activity remained robust
despite a weak performance in manufacturing output, with
construction and services expanding rapidly.
Despite some deterioration in the current account, the
sustainability of the drachma exchange rate continued to be
supported by an appropriate policy mix and strong fundamentals,
the report, which was drafted before the recent monetary crisis
broke out, it said.
[29] Training course to Uzbekistani officials by HEPO
Athens, 05/11/1997 (ANA)
The second part of a training course on modern requirements by
state services and private enterprises in a free and unified
economy is organized by the Hellenic Foreign Trade Board (HEPO)
and offered to Uzbekistani officials. It will commence on Nov.
14.
The seminars are being held in Greece within the framework of
the country's participation in developmental assistance offered
by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development
(OECD).
The focus will be on analyzing modern trends in international
transactions, issues relating to the establishment, organization
and operation of export businesses, etc.
[30] Conference on tourism, golf concludes in Halkidiki
Athens, 05/11/1997 (ANA)
Although investments in building golf courses are expensive and
depreciation is regarded lengthy, such investments are seen as
efficient since they contribute to attracting higher income
tourists.
That was the main conclusion of the first conference on tourism
and golf, organized by the ministry of development and the Greek
Tourism Organization (EOT), which wound up yesterday in
Halkidiki.
Foreign experts attending the event stressed that Greece -
wishing to make its presence internationally felt in the golf
sector - should take extra care in the study and construction of
golf courses.
[31] Earth tremors near Athens
Athens, 05/11/1997 (ANA)
Two weak earth tremors were recorded by the Geodynamic Institute
near Athens at noon yesterday, one at 12.30 measuring 4.3
Richter and one at 12.33 measuring 4.1 Richter. Both epicenters
were situated around 30 km west-northwest of Athens, north of
Elefsina.
Seismologist Vassilis Karakostas of the Geophysical Laboratory
of Thessaloniki University said later that the two quakes did
not give cause for concern.
He told the ANA that the area around the quakes' epicenter had
never produced any remarkable seismic activity, being further
south than the seismic zone that produced the 1981 earthquake
near the Alkyonides Islands in the Gulf of Corinth and which
measured 6.7 Richter.
End of English language section.
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