Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English, 02-04-05

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

CONTENTS

[01] Greek, Russian defense ministers condemn spiraling Mideast violence

[02] FM Papandreou calls for EU involvement to defuse Mideast crisis

[03] Greece will continue efforts for Mideast settlement, FM tells MPs

[04] Eurodeputies to visit Israel, Palestinian occupied territories on Friday

[05] Greek and Danish PMs discuss goals of Danish EU presidency

[06] Greek defense minister receives visiting Russian counterpart

[07] Greek Alternate FM receives Britain's MacShane

[08] Greek FM receives Cyprus counterpart, focus on Cyprus, Middle East issues

[09] Greek defense minister meets with Cyprus FM

[10] Greek Deputy FM Magriotis meets Cypriot education minister

[11] Eurodeputy Katiforis to visit Paris at invitation of French PM Jospin

[12] Athens mayor meets European Parliament president

[13] Macedonia-Thrace minister meets FYROM PM

[14] New frigate enters service in Greek Navy

[15] Deputies who visited Israel to give press conference at FPA

[16] Gov't again focuses on ailing OA's privatization

[17] Merchant marine ministry ready for Greece's EU presidency

[18] Greek ambassador outlines Greek-Turkish economic relations

[19] Turkish finance minister to Greece for seminar

[20] Losses limited under gov't pensions reform, union chief says

[21] Culture minister to inaugurate SPORTEXPO 2002

[22] UBS Warburg keeps hold recommendation on OTE telecom

[23] New telecom chief seen lowering rates, boosting returns

[24] Greek bonds follow international markets lower in March

[25] ASE drifts lower in year-low turnover

[26] IOC says Olympiad projects must be stepped up as time was running short

[27] Australian Olympic Games minister meets with Alevras

[28] Quebec parliament to vote for resolution on Parthenon marbles' repatriation

[29] EU takes Greece to task over noise pollution Demiris)

[30] Greek President to be proclaimed honorary professor of Cyprus University

[31] Decision follows soccer violence after Panathinaikos - Olympiakos

[32] UN Security Council urges Cyprus leaders to narrow differences

[33] Government calls on Denktash to think again

[34] Cyprus to host UN meeting on Palestinians

[01] Greek, Russian defense ministers condemn spiraling Mideast violence

Athens, 05/04/2002 (ANA)

Roughly 300 Palestinians fighters have reportedly found refuge in the ancient cathedral since Tuesday, as Israeli forces ringed the Manger Square area of the West Bank town where tradition says Jesus Christ was born, one of Christianity's major shrines. In statements to reporters, Russian Defense Minister Sergey Ivanov said that if reports from the area are correct, then “Russia sternly condemns this dirty war in the Holy Land, this is the only sentiment that characterizes all Christians.”

On his part, Greek minister Yiannos Papantoniou referred to “tragic developments” that confirm the fact that unbridled violence “can lead even to the bombing of churches.”

Ivanov added that Moscow has intervened to attempt and defuse the dangerous situation that now threatens even the safety of Russia and Greece.

Regarding Cyprus, the Russian minister cited the paradox and danger emanating from a possible conflict between a NATO member-state and an EU member, ''and Cyprus, we're sure, will be an European Union member''.

Papantoniou also briefed his Russian counterpart on the course of Greek-Turkish relations, where he referred to an improvement, while warning that certain major problems remain un-resolved -- especially unilateral Turkish claims against Greece and the continuing occupation of one-third of Cyprus' territory by Turkish forces.

FM meets with visiting Russian defense minister: Foreign Minister George Papandreou on Thursday met with Russian Defense Minister Sergey Ivanov and discussed bilateral relations.

Following their meeting, Ivanov said that Greek-Russian relations have no problems "and this realization causes us only joy, they are developing in phases, with transparency, to the benefit of our societies".

On his part, Papandreou noted that the traditional friendship characterizes the relations between the two countries, while the bilateral relations are excellent, adding that in such meetings participants have the opportunity to discuss a wide spectrum of issues, such as security, economy and energy.

They also discussed, Papandreou said, the developments in the Middle East, conditions in the Balkans and Cyprus, as well as the confrontation of terrorist actions in the Caucasus and the Middle East.

The two men also discussed the Russian access to Kalinigrad, following the enlargement of the European Union.

[02] FM Papandreou calls for EU involvement to defuse Mideast crisis

BRUSSELS 05/04/2002 (ANA – V. Demiris)

The Greek FM also referred to “systematic contacts” by EU officials in the next few days with both sides, beginning with Spanish PM and EU Council president Jose Maria Aznar, who intends to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon and Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat.

Moreover, he said contacts between the EU’s leadership and Arab League officials are also scheduled, while British Prime Minister Tony Blair was asked to convey the Union’s positions to Washington -- during his upcoming visit -- regarding the full implementation of UN Security Council resolutions for the region, including the pull-out of Israeli forces from Palestinian areas and the lifting of a siege on Arafat’s headquarters.

EU leaders have made it clear that Washington’s active support towards this direction is paramount.

Additionally, Papandreou said Athens is ready to offer its good services towards mediation efforts, as Greece constitutes the nearest EU territory to Israel and the Palestinian areas.

Finally, he praised the role of the Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem, before adding: “Amid these tragic events we wish to ensure the protection of places of worship and religious freedom.”

[03] Greece will continue efforts for Mideast settlement, FM tells MPs

Athens, 05/04/2002 (ANA)

He identified the greatest problem in the current crisis as the Israeli siege of Palestinian Authority President Yasser Arafat and said Athens would seek to ensure his safety and his release, as well as a solution to the crisis based on United Nations resolutions.

Briefing the committee on his talks over the Mideast crisis in Cairo and at a meeting of European Union foreign ministers in Luxembourg on Wednesday, Papandreou said that Athens would be sending diplomatic missions to Arab countries and Israel in order to seek a way out of the tragic cycle of violence that now had the region in its grip.

He stressed that any initiatives would not be easy, but said that Greece's advantage lay in its special relationship with the Palestinians, Arafat and the Arab countries, as well as its good bilateral relations with Israel.

The foreign minister also pointed out that Arafat was the recognized leader of the Palestinian Authority and should be treated as a head of state, not a terrorist.

''It is with Mr. Arafat that the international community and Israel should seek to find a solution,'' he said.

Reporting on the results of his talks in Cairo, Papandreou noted Arab concern at a seeming lack of support for Palestinians from the international community and the United States and also Arab demands for immediate US involvement.

Unless this was forthcoming, extremism among Arab governments and people would rise and suicide bombers would gain legitimacy, he warned.

The foreign minister also commented on the Greek doctors deported from the region and said there would be a demarche from the Greek side, while he said the health ministry was organizing an aid consignment containing 20 million drachmas worth of drugs and medical supplies.

108 PASOK MPs express 'abhorrence' over Mideast 'bloodbath': A majority of ruling PASOK's Parliament deputies sent a letter to the European Parliament president and the presidents of EU states' national parliaments expressing their "abhorrence and concern" over the "bloodbath" in the Middle East, as they said.

The letter, signed by 108 PASOK MPs, expresses "abhorrence and concern over the bloodbath in the Middle East and (Palestinian) President Yasser Arafat's being held hostage by the Israeli army".

The MPs further accused the Israeli government of "contempt of international legality, UN Security Council resolutions, and appeals of the European Union and many governments".

The letter calls on the United States, the EU and other international organizations to undertake coordinated efforts, and diplomatic and political initiatives to protect Arafat's life and for the immediate restoration of peace in the region.

"The appeals and wishes are not sufficient, and it is time for the assumption of initiatives and the coordination of the necessary actions for an immediate truce, immediate cessation of the deadly attacks by both sides, and the restoration of peace in the Middle East," the letter states.

Gov’t spokesman: During his later press briefing, meanwhile, the government spokesman referred to a “particularly positive initiative by PASOK’s deputies”.

Regarding a visit by an EU delegation to Jerusalem – following Wednesday evening’s decision by the Union’s “15” foreign ministers – spokesman Christos Protopapas said this initiative was still evolving.

Greek MPs of all parties condemn Israeli attacks in Ramallah: In a statement presented on Thursday, Greek MPs from all parties in Parliament condemned the ''blatant attacks by the Israeli army in Ramallah against the Palestinian Authority and president [Yasser] Arafat, which threatens to extinguish all hope for a peace settlement in the region.''

They also asked the international community, particularly the European Union, to intervene immediately and decisively in order to stop the bloodshed and find a just and final solution based on United Nations resolutions.

Finally, the MPs urged the Greek government to undertake initiatives for peace in the region.

[04] Eurodeputies to visit Israel, Palestinian occupied territories on Friday

A six member European Union Parliament delegation will depart for Israel on Friday, aiming to express the Union's stance for an immediate end to the Israeli attacks in the Palestinian occupied territories, as well as their solidarity to the Palestinian people.

Greek Eurodeputy Alekos Alavanos will participate in the delegation.

The Eurodeputies will attempt to enter Ramallah and other war zones, where European Union citizens reside.

Greek Archbishop calls for respect of Temple of Christ's Birth: Archbishop of Athens and All Greece Christodoulos on Thursday said the Greek Orthodox Church was following developments in the Middle East with great anxiety, in a statement in connection with damage caused by the Israeli armed forces to one of the gates of the Birth of Christ's church in Bethlehem.

''We are watching with great anxiety the developments in the Holy Lands. It is natural to have special sensitivities because they comprise the all-holy pilgrimages, most of which belong to the Greek Orthodox Church and the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem, as it is well known,'' the Archbishop said in his statement.

''From the first moment we stood by the side of Patriarch Irineos, as well as other holy sepulcher church members. We are praying and we are making every kind of demarche which will avert the bloodshed and of course every harmful action against the ancient monument of all Christianity, which is the temple of the Birth of Christ in Bethlehem,'' he stressed.

''I have the reassurances of the Israeli Ambassador to Athens David Sasson that his government has given explicit instructions for the monument not to be harmed and to avert bloodshed,'' he added.

''Today, at this time we were informed that there was an explosion at one of the gates of the Holy Temple. If this is true it creates in us disappointment, great sorrow and disapproval. Because Temples were always places of asylum, where the hunted found refuge,'' Christodoulos said.

''On the part of the Palestinians, calm reaction should be shown, because reports are unclear, and at the moment we are not in a position to allocate blame. What we are interested in is for peace to prevail and of course the ancient monument of the Birth of our Lord to remain unharmed as it has been respected for so many centuries by so many conquerors,'' he said.

[05] Greek and Danish PMs discuss goals of Danish EU presidency

Athens, 05/04/2002 (ANA)

Rasmussen is currently carrying out a tour of EU capitals to exchange views with EU leaders and be briefed on all the issues before the Danish presidency begins.

The talks with Simitis also touched on the latest developments in the Middle East, the Cyprus problem and relations between the EU and Turkey.

In a joint press conference afterward, the two premiers said they were in full agreement over EU enlargement. Rasmussen said that Denmark was prepared to essentially complete accession negotiations with all 10 EU candidate-states during its presidency, so that the Greek presidency in 2003 would only have to mark their formal conclusion.

Simitis said that the two countries would be cooperating closely from June onward, since Greece would be filling Denmark's place in the presidency of the Eurogroup, which it could not take up because it was not in the Euro-zone.

The Danish prime minister also said his country strongly supported Cyprus' accession to the EU, since it had made impressive progress in its accession course.

A solution to the Cyprus problem was desirable but not a condition for the island republic becoming part of the Community, he added.

He expressed hope, however, that Greek-Cypriots and Turkish-Cypriots would work together and take advantage of the new opportunities for growth and progress that EU membership would bring and said his presidency would make every possible effort in this direction.

Regarding Turkey's accession to the union, however, Rasmussen appeared more doubtful and said his country was not yet ready to propose a time frame for Turkey to join the Union since Ankara had not yet met the criteria set by the EU.

[06] Greek defense minister receives visiting Russian counterpart

Athens, 05/04/2002 (ANA)

Papantoniou stressed that Greece, during its European Union presidency, aims to contribute to the strengthening of the EU's relations with Russia in the defense sector and to encourage the development of cooperation between the two sides on the armaments programs field.

On his part Ivanov reiterated Russia's will for a substantial and not superficial content in its cooperation with NATO, adding that the sectors of cooperation include the joint confrontation of terrorism and threats that stem from the proliferation of mass destruction weapons and denied reports that Russia sold nuclear missiles to Iran.

He noted that Russia was constructing a nuclear reactor of light water in Iran which, however, cannot be used to produce plutonium. Speaking on Russia's military cooperation with Iran, he said that it does exist and that it is not subject to any international limitation.

Concerning the cooperation of Russia with the European Union, Ivanov said it aims at coordinating action in the weapons systems' manufacturing and in the field of security toward possible threats.

Europe and Russia cannot only produce weapons systems but for example, transportation systems as well, he said, calling the possibility of the creation of an anti-missile system by EU and Russia on the basis of the S-300 system, beyond any imagination.

On his part, regarding Russia's participation in tenders for Greece's armaments programs, Papantoniou reiterated that great competitiveness, reliability and quality were the necessary preconditions for the participation of a country in the relevant purchases.

Possible cooperation in armaments programs between Greece and Russia concerns anti-aircraft defense, the Navy, the missile systems and the artillery systems.

Existing agreements are valued at over 1 billion dollars, Ivanov said.

[07] Greek Alternate FM receives Britain's MacShane

Athens, 05/04/2002 (ANA)

The troubling situation in the Middle East and the European Union’s role in attempts to defuse the crisis were also discussed.

In comments afterwards, Yiannitsis noted that a great deal of work remains to be done so that the Balkan region achieves greater democracy, stability and a European vocation, although he did emphasize the progress recorded to date in stabilizing the often strife-riddled area.

MacShane said his visit is part of the Blair government’s intention to increase bilateral relations between Athens and London even further, especially with the Greek government and Prime Minister Costas Simitis. He added that more visits by British ministers to Athens are expected in the near future, while citing Greece’s EU presidency in the first half of 2003 and the 2004 Olympics Games as increasing the east Mediterranean country’s international role in the upcoming period.

“We want to see the countries between Greece and the Alps, namely, the countries of the former Yugoslavia, return to a normal political life and to be transformed into normal European states,” MacShane said.

Along these lines, the British minister referred to three goals: Increased investments and further privatizations; bringing war crimes suspects before an international tribunal at The Hague, and finally, EU initiatives to promote stability throughout the Balkans.

[08] Greek FM receives Cyprus counterpart, focus on Cyprus, Middle East issues

Athens, 05/04/2002 (ANA)

Following their meeting, Papandreou said that their talks were dominated by the developments in the Middle East and they decided to jointly coordinate their action, since Greece, an EU member and Cyprus a candidate member, are the two European countries geographically closest to the crisis.

On his part, Kasoulides called the discussion an especially useful review of developments, noting that ''it allows us to see which points we can improve, even more so regarding our course''.

''We are moving successfully toward the targets we have set,'' he added.

Alternate FM meets Cypriot FM: Alternate Foreign Minister Tassos Yiannitsis met Cypriot Foreign Minister Ioannis Kasoulides in Athens on Thursday to discuss issues related to the island republic's accession to the European Union and the efforts for a solution to the Cyprus problem.

In statements after the meeting, which was held in the framework of regular updates between Athens and Nicosia, the two men said that Cyprus would undoubtedly be among the countries that would next join the EU.

The Cypriot minister reported that accession negotiations between Cyprus and EU would be all but completed by the end of the Spanish EU presidency, with just two or three chapters remaining to be completed during the upcoming Danish presidency.

Apart from joining the EU, Kasoulides said that one of Nicosia's main priorities was to find a solution to the Cyprus problem and it was making every constructive effort in this direction.

He stressed that all foreign observers, as well as governments within and outside the EU had praised the constructive stance and political will displayed by Cyprus President Glafcos Clerides on this issue.

Cyprus was seeking a solution that would be compatible with its identity as an EU-member, functional and long lasting, Kasoulides added, and was not responsible for the failure to find such a solution thus far.

During the statements, Yiannitsis also announced that he would be making his first official visit to Cyprus on April 18-20.

[09] Greek defense minister meets with Cyprus FM

Athens, 05/04/2002 (ANA)

Papantoniou noted that ''we should be guarded, but also with a tone of optimism toward the talks,'' which as he said can not be conducted for ever and should conclude at some point''.

On his part, Kasoulides said that the full understanding between the agencies of foreign and defense policies is necessary.

[10] Greek Deputy FM Magriotis meets Cypriot education minister

NICOSIA 05/04/2002 (ANA - G. Leonidas)

In statements after his meeting with the Cypriot minister, Magriotis expressed the conviction that ''Cyprus in the following months will take the great step towards the EU,'' noting that ''it belongs to the European family.''

[11] Eurodeputy Katiforis to visit Paris at invitation of French PM Jospin

BRUSSELS 05/04/2002 (ANA - G. Zitouniati)

Katiforis, along with other European socialist deputies and Eurodeputies will take part in a pre-election gathering by Jospin in the French capital.

[12] Athens mayor meets European Parliament president

BRUSSELS 05/04/2002 (ANA - Y. Zitouniati)

Cox hailed the accession of Avramopoulos party to the Liberal Democrats group, to which he belongs himself, and will visit Greece on the occasion of the Liberal mayors of Europe's conference and the conference of the ''Mayors of the World'' to be held in Athens in September.

Avramopoulos underlined that his party is joining the Liberals' political group as a full member, despite the fact it is not represented neither in the national nor in the European Parliament.

[13] Macedonia-Thrace minister meets FYROM PM

SKOPJE 05/04/2002 (ANA - N. Frangopoulos)

Paschalidis reiterated the Greek government's positions for peace, stability and development in the Balkan region.

Their talks also focused on economic cooperation between the two countries. Also examined was the Greek plan for the reconstruction of the Balkans, which was voted recently by the Greek Parliament, as well as the similar plans for the region within the framework of the Stability Pact.

They also discussed cooperation in the transport sector as well as environmental issues.

[14] New frigate enters service in Greek Navy

Athens, 05/04/2002 (ANA)

The ship was named "Bouboulina" after the only female admiral of the Greek war of independence in the 1820s.

In statements to the press, Papantoniou stated that the armaments program will continue, "because we want to have strong, reliable and effective Armed Forces, that are able to confront any threat".

[15] Deputies who visited Israel to give press conference at FPA

Athens, 05/04/2002 (ANA)

The deputies are George Kyrkos (ruling PASOK), Elsa Papadimitriou (main opposition New Democracy party), Antonis Skyllakos (Communist Party of Greece) and Panayiotis Lafazanis (Coalition of the Left and Progress).

[16] Gov't again focuses on ailing OA's privatization

Athens, 05/04/2002 (ANA)

According to sources, the prospect of handing over some 94 million euros owed by the greater public sector to state-owned OA in the near future was discussed at the meeting, which also included participation by Transport Minister Christos Verelis and National Economy Minister Nikos Christodoulakis.

The meeting follows a decision by the European Commission early last month to initiate a probe into whether the Greek state allocated illegal subsidies to debt-ridden OA over the past decade. The Commission also said it intends to closely examine a 19.5-million-euro loan provided by the Greece’s state-run Commercial Bank to OA in February.

In late February, the government announced that it would seek 100 to 150 million euros in private capital to keep the ailing state carrier flying, days after the latest OA privatization tender was aborted.

Separating OA’s flight operations from other activities (ground services, catering, ticket offices etc.), possibly dividing the domestic and overseas divisions, along with 2,000 job reductions through transfers and voluntary retirement were cited at the time as part of a last-ditch OA rescue plan.

The tender was declared void after an Australia-based consortium – Integrated Airline Solutions (IAS) -- failed to cover monetary guarantees demanded by the Greek government for the tender to proceed.

[17] Merchant marine ministry ready for Greece's EU presidency

Athens, 05/04/2002 (ANA)

The minister said he expected the presidency to back shipping issues of interest to Greece, whose fleet ranks top in vessel capacity in the 15-member EU.

In addition, the ministry would promote European shipping issues at international agencies including the International Maritime Organization, Anomeritis said.

He added that the merchant marine and transport ministries had jointly proposed two ministers meetings during the Greek presidency - on March 17-18, 2003 in Brussels and June 16-17, 2003 in Luxembourg.

Furthermore, an informal ministers meeting had been proposed for May 17-19 in the form of a cruise of the Greek islands, Anomeritis said.

[18] Greek ambassador outlines Greek-Turkish economic relations

ISTANBUL 05/04/2002 (ANA - E. Aretaios)

Turkey, underlined the economic crisis which hit Turkey and the absence of a bilateral agreement on the avoidance of double taxation.

Korantis was addressing an event organized by the Union of Exporters of Turkey, in cooperation with the Rotary Group, and focused on latest developments in economic relations between Greece and Turkey and Greece's experience in the European Union.

He mentioned the considerable increase in trade transactions between Greece and Turkey, adding that about 50 Greek companies are active in Turkey and this figure is expected to increase soon.

Korantis also referred at length to Greece's experience in the EU, noting that Greece is always willing to assist Turkey on its course towards the EU.

[19] Turkish finance minister to Greece for seminar

Athens, 05/04/2002 (ANA)

The bank said in a statement on Thursday that the seminar would look at business activity in the Black Sea region, methods of funding and investment opportunities in the region.

The bank will also hold its annual board meeting the same weekend.

The Black Sea Trade and Development Bank launched operations in June 1999 in order to aid growth in the Balkans and Black Sea region and boost economic ties among shareholding countries.

The Black Sea bank's share capital of 1.2 billion US dollars is distributed among Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bulgaria, Georgia, Greece, Moldova, Romania, Russia, Turkey and Ukraine.

[20] Losses limited under gov't pensions reform, union chief says

Athens, 05/04/2002 (ANA)

Christos Polyzogopoulos, president of the General Confederation of Workers of Greece (GSEE), told reporters that the government's plan affected a total of two million employees in the private sector, the state companies and banks.

A number of people would retire under more favorable terms while slightly over 45 percent would receive their pensions under the current regime, Polyzogopoulos said.

Certain people would also benefit from an earlier retirement age under an option for women to receive an early pension at 55 years; mothers at age 50; and men who complete 35 years of service at 60 instead of 65 years of ago, he noted.

Also to benefit would be young people entering social insurance after December 31, 1992, whose pensions would represent 70 percent of pay instead of 60 percent, Polyzogopoulos added.

[21] Culture minister to inaugurate SPORTEXPO 2002

Athens, 05/04/2002 (ANA)

The sports trade fair, organized by Helexpo with the support of culture ministry and the country's sports authorities, will be held at the Thessaloniki International Trade Fair Center April 11-14 April.

This year's fair will present 141 exhibitors, of which 67 are direct exhibitors and 74 indirect, with foreign exhibitors from Austria, Belgium, Germany, Switzerland, US, Japan, Spain, Italy, Canada, UK, the Netherlands, Hungary, Slovenia and Sweden.

[22] UBS Warburg keeps hold recommendation on OTE telecom

Athens, 05/04/2002 (ANA)

At the same time, the target price for the paper had been raised slightly to 17.5 euros from 17 euros, UBS Warburg said in a statement.

OTE recently acquired a new president and chief executive officer, Lefteris Antonakopoulos, the first head of the company to be elected by shareholders. The positions were formerly held by state appointees.

In addition, the investment house switched its recommendation to buy from hold for Cosmote, OTE's mobile phone arm; and for Vodafone, another Athens quoted mobile phone operator, the statement said.

UBS Warburg noted that Greek telecoms operators were in sound financial shape while operating in a protected market; and there was still a great deal of leeway for growth in the mobile phone sector.

[23] New telecom chief seen lowering rates, boosting returns

Athens, 05/04/2002 (ANA)

In his first news conference since taking office, Antonakopoulos also indicated that he was considering lowering rates for consumers.

He said that he planned to make full use of human resources, and adopt an aggressive pricing policy.

The provision of fixed-line services, on which OTE recently lost a monopoly under European Union rules, would be fuller for the company's roughly six million customers in the sector, said Antonakopoulos, a senior official of the Federation of Greek Industry for many years.

He added that management would expand its communications policy.

The telecom's new chief executive officer also reported that he was in talks with Dimitris Kopelouzos, a major operator in the oil business; and that meetings were planned with the founder and president of Intracom, Socrates Kokkalis, as well as with senior executives of Siemens.

Antonakopoulos is the first head of OTE, a heavily traded stock on the Athens bourse, to be elected by shareholders. The appointment was formerly made by the state.

As OTE's main shareholder, the state can now make recommendations on board or management choices no longer install appointees.

[24] Greek bonds follow international markets lower in March

Athens, 05/04/2002 (ANA)

The central bank, in its monthly report, said that turnover totalled 37.3 billion euros in March, up from 36.5 billion euros in February, and more than double the same month in 2001 (18 billion euros).

International bond markets came under pressure in March as signs of economic recovery in the US and the eurozone shifted investors' interest towards the riskier stock markets, while worries over the future trends of monetary policy in both sides of the Atlantic also kept bond markets volatile.

Greek stock bonds, however, performed better compared with other state securities in the European core, a trend reflected in a fall in the spread between the average return of Greek 10-year bonds with the German 10-year benchmark bonds to 34 basis points in March from 38 basis points in February.

Long-term bonds fell by 236 to 302 bps, in the 15- and 20-year durations respectively, in March while in the medium-term section of the yield curve (5-7 years) losses ranged from 148 to 187 bps.

The 10-year Greek benchmark bond price ended March at 97.47 (yielding 5.58 percent), from 99.48 (yielding 5.31 percent in February.

The central bank's monthly report said that talk of an early increase in US interest rates led international state bonds' returns higher in March, leading to a flatter yield curve. The spread between the three-year and the 20-year bonds fell to 124 basis points at the end of March from 127 bps the previous month.

The 20-year Greek bond was the most heavily traded security, with a monthly turnover of 4.3 billion euros in March.

[25] ASE drifts lower in year-low turnover

Athens, 05/04/2002 (ANA)

The general index ended 0.04 percent lower at 2,200.41 points, off the day's losses. Turnover was an extremely thin 62.5 million euros.

The Construction and Insurance sectors recorded the heaviest percentage losses of the day (1.27 percent and 0.99 percent, respectively), while the Retail and Food-Beverage sectors scored small gains (0.14 percent each).

The FTSE/ASE 20 index for blue chip and heavy traded stocks fell 0.19 percent, the FTSE/ASE MID 40 index eased 0.25 percent and the FTSE/ASE SmallCap 80 index ended 0.54 percent lower.

Broadly, decliners led advancers by 177 to 126 with another 56 issues unchanged.

The most heavily traded shares were Sex Form, Hellenic Telecommunications Organization, Alpha Bank, Cosmote, Public Power Corporation, and National Bank of Greece.

Investment firms gain right to offer derivatives services: Investment companies will have the right to provide services in Athens derivatives, including execution orders, market authorities said on Thursday.

In order to comply with market rules, the companies will have to prove they have staff approved by the derivatives market to handle orders, the authorities said in a statement.

Equity index futures at discount: Equity index futures on the Athens Derivatives Exchange dropped in scant trade on Thursday with blue chip paper ending at a discount of about 0.50 percent and mid-cap contracts around 1.0 percent down, traders said.

Turnover was 68.17 million euros.

The underlying FTSE/ASE-20 index for heavily traded stocks and blue chips shed 0.19 percent; and the underlying FTSE/ASE-40 for medium capitalization stocks fell 0.24 percent.

Bond Prices rise in moderate trade: Bond prices in the domestic secondary market on Thursday finished higher in moderate trade focusing on seven-year paper.

The Greek benchmark 10-year bond showed a yield of 5.51 percent, and the spread over the corresponding German bund was 31 basis points.

Turnover through the central bank's electronic system was 1.6 billion euros.

Buy orders accounted for the bulk of turnover.

[26] IOC says Olympiad projects must be stepped up as time was running short

Athens, 05/04/2002 (ANA)

During Thursday's meeting between the ATHOC and IOC Coordinating Committee officials, a multitude of issues were discussed concerning the organization of the Games, mainly that of the ATHOC budget which was approved and amounts to 1.96 billion euro for the period 1998-2005. Over the next six months the budget for the Paralympics will be established.

Oswald will meet Prime Minister Costas Simitis on Friday prior to a press conference he will give.

Culture minister meets IOC Coordinating Committee president: Culture Minister Evangelos Venizelos expressed his satisfaction over the progress which has been made these past two months in preparation for the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens following a meeting he had on Thursday night with visiting International Olympic Committee (IOC) Coordinating Committee President Denis Oswald.

Venizelos said that the problem of Olympic hospitality has been greatly reduced, given that only 1,300 rooms are remaining to be secured in comparison to 2,800 rooms two months ago.

Oswald made no statements.

ND leader discusses 2004 Athens Olympiad

with IOC official: Main opposition New Democracy party leader Costas Karamanlis discussed the 2004 Athens Olympic Games with visiting International Olympic Committee's Coordinating Committee President Denis Oswald on Thursday.

Speaking to reporters, Karamanlis later expressed certainty that the next elections and a possible change in government will not affect the holding of the Games.

Oswald, who was accompanied by Athens 2004 Organizing Committee President Gianna Angelopoulos-Daskalaki, said the IOC ''is ready to work with every government. Our responsibility is to cooperate well with all.''

Commenting on the time of the elections, he said ''it does not concern us if the elections take place four months before the Games or take place next year'', adding that the issue concerns all Greeks and Greece and is not related to parties.

Karamanlis said problems existing in the infrastructures, transport and hospitality sectors are serious but not insurmountable and that the Greeks together will organize the best Olympic Games.

[27] Australian Olympic Games minister meets with Alevras

Athens, 05/04/2002 (ANA)

They discussed issues concerning the better organization of the Olympic Games of Athens, as well as the course of the Olympic Games construction projects.

Knight expressed his satisfaction over the course of the projects and his belief that the Athens Olympic Games will be of the most successful.

[28] Quebec parliament to vote for resolution on Parthenon marbles' repatriation

MONTREAL 05/04/2002 (ANA - I. Frangouli)

The resolution stated that ''This parliament supports the request of Greece, which aims at the return of the Parthenon sculptures, expressing the warm wish, so as the common heritage of humanity be able to return to the local of its origin in time for the Olympic Games of 2004 in Athens''.

Montreal City Councilwomen Eleni Photopoulou and Maria Deros also tabled a similar resolution to the municipal council, which approved unanimously.

[29] EU takes Greece to task over noise pollution

BRUSSELS 05/04/2002 (ANA - V. Demiris)

Similar letters giving a detailed breakdown of why each member-state was in breach of EU regulations - the last step before the Commission has a right to initiate legal proceedings against a member-state - were also sent to Germany, Italy and Portugal.

The EU regulations in question concern specific types of outdoor machinery, such as chain saws, cement mixers, cranes, hydraulic diggers, pneumatic drills, garbage-collecting vehicles and others.

Greece and the other three countries are being called to order because they have failed to brief the commission on the steps they have taken to harmonies their legislation with that of the EU and to implement community directives within the July 3, 2001 deadline.

The regulations in question state that tools and machinery for outdoor use can only be put on the market if they meet certain noise level criteria and provide detailed breakdowns of noise level guarantees.

[30] Greek President to be proclaimed honorary professor of Cyprus University

NICOSIA 05/04/2002 (ANA - G. Leonidas)

Contacts will be held with President Stephanopoulos to determine the date of the ceremony. The university is planning to hold the ceremony in autumn to coincide with the 10th anniversary of its founding.

Greek Prime Minister Costas Simitis was the first honorary professor of the Cyprus University.

[31] Decision follows soccer violence after Panathinaikos - Olympiakos

Athens, 05/04/2002 (ANA)

A fine of 87,000 euros was also handed down by a special sports judge in Athens, one day after Panathinaikos posted a 1-0 victory at home against Spanish powerhouse FC Barcelona in the first game of their Champions League quarterfinal match up.

Furthermore, the popular Athens club’s president, Angelos Filippidis, was banned from entering football stadiums for 18 months for his brief on-field charge at the referee just moments after the Panathinaikos-Olympiakos game ended. For the record, second-place Olympiakos tied the match, 1-1, in injury time with a penalty kick.

Panathinaikos coach Sergio Markarian was also banned from playing fields for 40 days. Conversely, two of the Uruguayan skipper’s assistants were acquitted of any wrongdoing.

Olympiakos, meanwhile, was fined 33,000 euros.

[32] UN Security Council urges Cyprus leaders to narrow differences

UNITED NATIONS 05/04/2002 (CNA/ANA)

In a statement after a Security Council meeting, during which the UN chief's Special Adviser on Cyprus Alvaro de Soto briefed the members on the outcome of the second round of talks between Cyprus President Glafcos Clerides and Turkish Cypriot leader Rauf Denktash, Council President Sergey Lavrov said the members of the Council ''called upon the parties to cooperate fully with the Secretary General and his Special Adviser and to look to them for assistance in order to move forward on the substance''.

Lavrov said the members of the Council took note that Thursday's briefing ''was part of the review being conducted by the Secretary General at approximately the half-way point between the opening of the face-to-face negotiations in January and the target date of June for agreement, referred to by each of the two leaders''.

''In particular'', he continued, ''they urged the two leaders to focus without delay on narrowing the differences between them on all issues that must be resolved as part of a comprehensive settlement, taking into full consideration all relevant council resolutions and treaties''.

Lavrov added that ''the members of the Council reiterated their full support for the Secretary General's mission entrusted to him by the Council in Resolution 1250'' and said ''they called upon the parties to cooperate fully with the Secretary General and his Special Adviser and to look to them for assistance in order to move forward on the substance''.

Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkey invaded and occupied its northern third. President Clerides and Denktash have been engaged in face-to-face talks since January 16, with a view to reach a settlement.

[33] Government calls on Denktash to think again

NICOSIA 05/04/2002 (CNA/ANA)

Government spokesman Michalis Papapetrou said here on Thursday that everybody has realized that Turkey is serving its own interests in Cyprus and not those of the Turkish Cypriots.

He also said that the case of Cyprus is not on offer for ''inventions'' with regard to a settlement and noted that both Britain and the US have a special role to play in the peace effort.

Papapetrou was commenting on remarks by Rauf Denktash, leader of the Turkish Cypriot community, that an agreed solution must provide for one Cyprus, with one head and two legs, which must have separate sovereignty.

''Every single state has one indivisible sovereignty and since the solution will provide for one state, as UN resolutions state, there can be only one sovereignty, one citizenship and one international personality,'' Papapetrou stressed.

He invited the international community to take seriously into consideration the well-acknowledged view that Ankara is interested in serving its own objectives in Cyprus and not those of the Turkish Cypriots.

Referring to the role London and Washington play in the Cyprus peace effort, he said the US role is ''decisive'' in that America's special relation with Turkey places that country in a better position to influence Ankara.

He said Britain is one of the three guarantor powers (Greece and Turkey are the other two) of Cyprus' independence, it maintains military bases on the island and has been engaged here for years.

The Spokesman dismissed suggestions from Denktash that the Greek Cypriot side should show understanding to avoid a Palestinian-Israeli type of conflict in Cyprus.

''The situation in the Middle East is one in which Israel violates UN resolutions and in this respect there is a great similarity with what is happening here, where Turkey has been ignoring UN resolutions for nearly three decades,'' the spokesman said.

[34] Cyprus to host UN meeting on Palestinians

UNITED NATIONS 05/04/2002 (CNA/ANA)

The announcement was made Wednesday by Cyprus' permanent representative to the UN, Ambassador Sotos Zackheos, during a marathon meeting of the UN Security Council on the situation in the West Bank.

Ambassador Zackheos expressed ''profound concern and sorrow at the worsening situation in the Middle East and condemned violence and any actions resulting in innocent victims, Israelis or Palestinians''.

Zackheos also expressed ''full sympathy and solidarity with President Yasser Arafat'', whom Cyprus ''considers the legitimate leader and representative of the Palestinian people.''

He called on Israel, ''as the occupying power to abide by its international obligations and to exercise maximum restraint'', condemning at the same time strongly ''any and all forms of terrorism, for which there is no justification and we support the right of Israel and all states of the region to live in peace and security''.

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