Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English, 02-05-16

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

CONTENTS

[01] Premier calls for EU collective defense system, guaranteeing security

[02] Lithuanian president's visit, meeting with Stephanopoulos

[03] FM holds talks on promoting Bulgarian, Romanian bids to join

[04] Athens rejects Spanish prime minister's proposal on Euroarmy issue

[05] U.S. State Department briefer on Euroarmy, Cyprus issue

[06] Development minister arrives in Cyprus

[07] Clerides, Denktash appear on CNN-Turk program

[08] Greek-Bulgarian ties 'excellent', deputy defense minister says

[09] EU member-states reps meet without result on 13 Palestinian exiles' issue

[10] Israeli envoy: No contacts with Athens over fate of '13' Palestinians

[11] Australian PM Howard to visit Greece in July

[12] Opposition attacks gov't over Auditing Council's report

[13] Public order minister briefs PM on crime prevention councils

[14] Alternate FM to attend EU-Latin America & Caribbean summit

[15] Tax evasion rate increased in 2001, report says

[16] Hellenic Railways signs contract for Athens-Spata railroad

[17] Europarliament approves fiscal report by Greek deputy

[18] Benaki Museum to receive public investments funds

[19] Shipping foreign exchange up $251.5 mln last year

[20] Greek stocks ease on profit taking on Wednesday

[21] July deadline in Athens Olympics accommodation tender

[22] Athens 2004 Paralympics to be held in three major sports facilities

[23] Culture minister presents six-month program of Cultural Olympiad abroad

[24] Fifty security forces' officers posted for training with Athens 2004

[25] Greek press counselor in Sofia dies of cancer

[26] Greek innovation in fight against oil pollution at sea

[27] President, UN Secretary General discuss ways to accelerate talks

[28] Bush supports Annan's mission to Cyprus

[01] Premier calls for EU collective defense system, guaranteeing security

Athens, 16/05/2002 (ANA)

In his speech, Simitis stressed that the European Union's common foreign and defense policy should be an effective system for the confrontation of crises, as well as a collective security system which would guarantee peace, stability and security.

The development of this common policy should operate for the strengthening of the security of all member-states, the protection of borders and the defense of the vital interests of each member-state and of the whole of the EU, Simitis said.

Thus the common foreign and defense policy should gradually assume the characteristics of a collective security system based on the principles of solidarity and mutual assistance, which should be incorporated in the treaty, the Greek premier said.

Such a system, without being opposed to NATO, should be based on institutional autonomy and serve the aims of the EU, he said, adding that Greece does not accept regulations in the defense of the EU that would be contrary to its autonomy and principles.

He underlined that this was the reason for Greece's ''rejection of the one-sided Ankara text,'' stressing that this text was the result of cooperation outside the EU's bodies.

He also noted that such decisions should not be made outside the relevant bodies and then be forced on member-states.

''Without amendments that satisfy our aims and safeguard our interests, no text will be acceptable,'' Simitis said, adding ''the security of the EU and much more so of the country cannot be an object of concessions or tentative regulations''.

In his address, Simitis also spoke of the EU's enlargement, which he called an irreversible historic choice, adding that Cyprus will be in the first wave of countries to enter the EU.

''We want and work toward the resolution of the political problem in Cyprus,'' Simitis said, adding that ''if the Turkish Cypriot side continues its intransigent position and we do not reach a solution, then Cyprus will join the EU in accordance with the Helsinki decisions''.

"We will strive based on this established position and Greece will use all the institutional means offered by the Treaty for this purpose," Simitis added.

[02] Lithuanian president's visit, meeting with Stephanopoulos

Athens, 16/05/2002 (ANA)

Adamkus is on an official visit here at the invitation of Greek counterpart Costis Stephanopoulos, with whom he met Wednesday morning.

After the meeting, Stephanopoulos expressed satisfaction over the steps accomplished by the Baltic countries, including Lithuania, in their 12 years of independence, with respect to the development of democratic institutions but also towards joining the European family.

Stephanopoulos expressed hope that Lithuania would also become a member of NATO, adding that given the growth of relations between Russia and NATO, Moscow's past reservations over the membership of Baltic countries in the Alliance would cease to exist.

During their meeting, the two Presidents reviewed international problems, including the crisis in the Middle East and the situation in the Balkans.

They also put emphasis on the growth of trade relations between Greece and Lithuania and the signing of a relevant agreement.

Adamkus said that in his country's 12 years of independence, it had achieved much growth, was partially due to the assistance of friendly countries such as Greece.

Stability, he said, was founded on good relations among the peoples, and as such Lithuania was prepared to join the European and Atlantic structures and undertake the obligations entailed. He further assured that, in undertaking those responsibilities, Lithuania would also respond in the direction of the EU's northern and eastern borders so that Europe could have a single voice.

Adamkus expressed pleasure over the double taxation avoidance agreement signed in Athens, saying it would serve as an incentive for businessmen of both countries for better development of trade relations between Greece and Lithuania.

Regarding Lithuania's membership in NATO, Adamkus said in reply to press questions that that relationship would comprise an important factor for stability in Eastern Europe.

He expressed his personal belief that Russia accepts Lithuania as a part of Europe, and consequently would not object to the Baltic countries' joining NATO.

Adamkus said that the Russia-NATO agreement was a positive development, while the Russia-US agreement to reduce the number of nuclear warheads was a positive step for stability.

PM receives visiting Lithuanian president: Visiting Lithuanian President Valdas Adamkus was received by Prime Minister Costas Simitis on Wednesday for talks on European Union and NATO enlargement - Lithuania aspires to join both - and bilateral relations between Lithuania and Greece.

The Greek premier assured Adamkus that Athens wanted the first wave of EU enlargement to include all 10 candidate-countries, while Greece had no problems with Lithuania and only stood to gain by its entry.

Regarding NATO, Simitis said that Greece believed its expansion should also take in northeastern Europe, since this would contribute to the security of the EU.

''Our foreign policy is based on the principle that Europe should acquire an identity and a single entity on foreign police and defense issues. Our viewpoint is that security in Europe requires the participation of all European countries in all Euro-Atlantic structures,'' he said.

The Greek prime minister also called for the development of trade relations with Lithuania, so that Greek businesses could become familiar with this market, make investments there and become established within its borders - especially those that currently had bases in nearby Poland, the Ukraine and other East European countries.

Simitis said the two countries could also establish closer ties in the defense sector, proposing that Lithuanian army officers take advantage of courses in peacekeeping operations offered by the Greek training center in Kilkis.

Adamkus said his visit to Athens was an opportunity to promote the opportunities offered by Lithuania in the economic sector but also in culture and science. Developing closer ties with Greece would be important in the future and the visit was a way for the two sides to examine the prospects for cooperation, he said.

Another important aspect of his visit was the opportunity for Lithuania to present its goals in foreign policy issues, such as its bid to join the EU and NATO with the support of Greece, he concluded.

President Stephanopoulos hosts dinner in honor of his Lithuanian counterpart: President of the Republic Kostis Stephanopoulos hosted an official dinner on Wednesday night in honor of his Lithuanian counterpart Valdas Adamkus who is on an official visit to Greece.

In his address, Stephanopoulos stressed that through Adamkus' visit, bilateral relations between Greece and Lithuania were further upgraded and reiterated Greece's support of Lithuania's efforts to join the Euroatlantic structures.

The Greek president also referred to the cooperation of the two countries at international fora. On the Middle East problem, he stressed the right of the state of Israel to live in secure borders and the right of Palestinians to live in an independent and viable state recognized by all, as foreseen by the United Nations resolutions.

Stephanopoulos said it was essential that UN resolutions be fully respected by all so as to secure required order in the international community. He expressed the hope that ''the tragic crisis of the previous months will constitute a catalyst for finding a final solution to the Palestinian problem.''

Concluding, Stephanopoulos referred to the Cyprus issue, expressing the hope that the procedure for the island republic's accession to the European Union'' will constitute a strong factor for a solution to the (Cyprus) problem.

Athens mayor receives Lithuanian president and Warsaw Metropolitan: Athens Mayor Dimitris Avramopoulos on Wednesday received visiting Lithuanian President Valdas Adamkus. The Lithuanian president is an ardent supporter of environmental protection and has helped environmentalist organizations in Baltic States to acquire necessary knowledge, know-how and equipment to implement programs in these sectors.

Both politicians agreed that what is important at present is Lithuania's accession to the European Union and NATO.

Avramopoulos also received the Metropolitan of Warsaw and All Poland Savvas in the presence of Archbishop of Athens and All Greece Christodoulos.

Avramopoulos said that Savvas established new parishes, built new cathedrals and monasteries and upgraded the presence of the Orthodox Church in Poland.

''We are linked with your country with very old ties of friendship and common struggles for peace, progress and prosperity. However, the Poles living in Greece, many of whom are citizens of this city, are an important bridge between our two peoples,'' he said.

[03] FM holds talks on promoting Bulgarian, Romanian bids to join

NATO REYKJAVIK, 16/05/2002 (ANA)

Romania is concerned that the closer ties between NATO and Russia could hold up its own entry into the Alliance.

The plans discussed targeted the NATO summit in Prague this November and involve activating national parliaments and the European Parliament.

Greek Foreign Minister George Papandreou also had a brief one-on-one meeting with his Turkish counterpart Ismail Cem earlier on Tuesday, in preparation for their next meeting on the sidelines of the EuroMed conference in Mykonos on May 19-21, to review developments in the Cyprus issue.

Responding to questions from Greek reporters afterwards, Cem expressed hope that the contacts by United Nations Secretary General Kofi Annan in Nicosia would bring results.

On his part, Papandreou said that Annan's visit to the occupied territories in northern Cyprus was not an indirect recognition of the illegal Turkish-Cypriot regime, since the UN Secretary-General acted under the auspices of UN Security Council decisions.

[04] Athens rejects Spanish prime minister's proposal on Euroarmy issue

Athens, 16/05/2002 (ANA)

Spanish Prime Minister and President of the European Council Jose Maria Aznar in a letter he sent to Prime Minister Costas Simitis last Friday proposed an alternative formula for an end to the impasse concerning the issue of the Euroarmy, the spokes-man said.

According to Beglitis, this proposal concerns the inclusion of a special paragraph in the text of the conclusions of the European Council in Seville which would satisfy the Greek positions and concerns on the issue of European security and defense policy, maintaining, however, the so-called ''Ankara text'' intact.

Beglitis said the content of Aznar's letter and the Spanish proposal were examined by the prime minister and Foreign Minister George Papandreou during their visit to Belgrade and they rejected the proposal, which was deemed unsatisfactory for the Greek side.

According to the spokesman, Papandreou conveyed Athens' reply during a meeting he had in Brussels on Monday with his Spanish counterpart Jose Pique and EU high representative for foreign and defense policy Javier Solana, on the sidelines of the General Affairs Council.

[05] U.S. State Department briefer on Euroarmy, Cyprus issue

WASHINGTON, 16/05/2002 (ANA - T. Ellis)

Replying to a question, briefer Lynn Cassell said the U.S ''support the efforts of the EU Spanish presidency and the high representative, (Javier) Solana, to find ways to resolve this issue on the basis of the Nice implementation text. The Nice implementation text offers a good formula to address the concerns of non-EU NATO members regarding their participation in the European security and defense policy while fully respecting the autonomy of EU decision-making. We urge all parties to accept the text as soon as possible.''

In reply to a question concerning U.N. Secretary-General Kofi Annan's meetings in Nicosia on Wednesday, Cassell said: ''We, actually, actively support the U.N. in its efforts to reach a comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus issue. Our special coordinator for Cyprus, Ambassador Tom Weston, provides ongoing diplomatic support for the direct talks (between Cyprus President Glafcos Clerides and Turkish Cypriot leader Rauf Denktash), and we stand ready to continue assisting the U.N. secretary-general and his special advisor (Alvaro de Soto) in this important endeavor.''

Parliament President Kaklamanis continues his contacts with U.S. officials

WASHINGTON, 16/05/2002 (ANA - P. Dimitro-poulos)

Following his talks with Undersecretary of State for political affairs Marc Grossman, Kaklamanis had successive meetings on Wednesday with House of Representatives chairman Dennis Hastert and the Senate Majority Leader, Senator Thomas Daschle.

The Cyprus issue, the European rapid deployment force and international terrorism were at the center of their talks.

In the talks Kaklamanis had with Hastert, the cooperation between Greece and the U.S. in the combatting of terrorism was ascertained.

Daschle and Kaklamanis also discussed cooperation between the two countries in the region of southeastern Europe within the framework of the agreement they signed in 1998 for joint action in business.

[06] Development minister arrives in Cyprus

NICOSIA, 16/05/2001 (ANA - G. Leonidas)

Speaking on arrival at Larnaca airport, Tsohatzopoulos expressed the hope that the UN secretary general's current visit to Cyprus, as well as all the efforts being made for a solution to be found to the Cyprus problem, will have a successful outcome.

Tsohatzopoulos said Greece supports the independence of Cyprus historically and consistently, as well as a just solution to the Cyprus problem based on UN Security Council resolutions.

He also expressed the hope that the prospect of Cyprus's accession to the European Union will be positive and will provide a new perspective and strength for all the Cyprus people.

Commenting on the exclusion of Cyprus from the European army at the recent Brussels summit, Tsohatzopoulos said that in no way will there be a linking of issues concerning the European army, the solution to the Cyprus problem and the accession of Cyprus to the European Union.

Tsohatzopoulos addresses event in honor of Lyssarides: Development Minister and member of Greece's ruling PASOK party's Political Bureau said here on Wednesday the name of Socialdemocrat Movement (KISOS) party Honorary President Vassos Lyssarides is synonymous with the struggles for freedom, independence, social justice and human dignity.

Tsohatzopoulos, who was the main speaker at an event organized by the Democratic Rally (DHSY) party in honor of Lyssarides, said the political event in honor of Lyssarides sends a message of national unity and struggle to all Cypriots.

Tsohatzopoulos referred to the joint defense doctrine between Greece and Cyprus, stretching from Thrace to Cyprus, reminding that Vassos Lyssarides contributed substantively to its shaping with his views and political activity, together with Cyprus President Glafcos Clerides and the memorable late Greek prime minister Andreas Papandreou.

He further said Cyprus constitutes a paramount national issue for Greece, adding that Cyprus is a European and international issue because at the dividing line of Attila the principles and values of international law, international organizations and the European Union are put to the test.

A review of Vassos Lyssarides' life and work was made during the event and his national, political and social activity and contribution was highlighted.

[07] Clerides, Denktash appear on CNN-Turk program

ISTANBUL, 16/05/2002 (ANA)

Clerides and Denktash appeared on a program hosted by noted Turkish columnist Mehmet Ali Birand.

[08] Greek-Bulgarian ties 'excellent', deputy defense minister says

SOFIA, 16/05/2002 (ANA - B. Borisov)

Ties were equally good in matters relating to regional development, such as building inter-European networks, plans to upgrade transport infrastructure, communications and energy networks, he added.

Apostolidis made the statements after a meeting with Bulgarian Deputy Foreign Minister Petko Draganov, which concluded the round of talks held by the minister during his two-day visit.

Draganov said his talks with Apostolidis had been ''yet another step in the friendly dialogue and cooperation between Greece and Bulgaria.

In a press conference after the meeting, the Greek minister said the two sides had confirmed their desire for closer cooperation between Bulgaria and Greece but also between Bulgaria and the European Union in issues such as security and in the fight against terrorism and crime.

Referring to the upcoming Greek presidency of the EU in the first half of 2003, Apostolidis said Athens wanted its presidency to mark the further enlargement of the EU that would include Bulgaria and Romania as well. ''We will work hard toward this target,'' he added.

According to Apostolidis, Greece's main priority was regional stability, which demanded strong political institutions, extensive economic cooperation, the building of infrastructure and the development of bilateral and multilateral ties in all fields, particularly the political and military.

In this context, the deputy minister underlined the importance of the European Observatory for crime, which would make a major contribution to the region's stability.

Apostolidis visited Bulgaria at the invitation of his Bulgarian counterpart Sonja Iankulova.

[09] EU member-states reps meet without result on 13 Palestinian exiles' issue

BRUSSELS, 16/05/2002 (ANA)

The EU has said that six of its member-states - Belgium, Ireland, Italy, Portugal, Spain and Greece - have agreed to receive the evacuated Palestinians, a gesture aimed at defusing tensions in the Middle East.

It was agreed that the permanent representatives will continue discussions on Thursday to determine the legal status of the 13 Palestinians, when they arrive in EU member-states.

Diplomatic sources in Brussels said that the issue of allocating the Palestinians to at least 6 different member-states included some legal and technical elements, which make the issue a particularly complicated one and for this reason it is difficult to resolve.

The same sources said that the 13 Palestinians will be granted a status of temporary protection for humanitarian reasons, based on the preconditions that are allowed by the domestic legal frameworks of the member-states that will host them.

The possibility of freedom of movement for the 13 within the EU, based on the Schengen Treaty, as well as the determination of which countries will accept them, was also another two of the issues under discussion by the 15 representatives.

[10] Israeli envoy: No contacts with Athens over fate of '13' Palestinians

Athens, 16/05/2002 (ANA)

Speaking to local reporters at the Israeli embassy in Athens, envoy David Sasson said, "we are letting the Europeans deal with this subject the way they want to," although he added that his government still views the "13" as suspects in acts of terrorism.

Moreover, the Israeli envoy clarified that there have been no contacts over the issue between the Israeli embassy and Greek authorities.

The European Union's leadership has said that six of its member-states - Belgium, Ireland, Italy, Portugal, Spain and Greece - have agreed to receive the evacuated Palestinians a gesture to defuse tensions in the Middle East.

Wednesday's press briefing by Israeli diplomats in the Greek capital came as the volatile Mideast crisis apparently ebbed in the aftermath of a gradual pullout by Israeli forces from the Palestinian areas, and following weeks of bloody conflict. The incursion by Israeli forces into several of the Palestinians' densely populated West Bank towns generated stepped up criticism in the local press of Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon's actions and even sparked unprecedented street rallies against the Mideast violence and in favor of peace.

In his statements, Sasson mostly echoed the current Israeli government's position that Palestinian President Yasser Arafat is the biggest obstacle to peace, while also claiming that latter's support within Palestinian society is slipping and that moderate Arab states are also dissatisfied with the premier Palestinian leader.

Conversely, the Israeli ambassador declined to comment on any possible interlocutors amongst the Palestinian side that his government would prefer.

[11] Australian PM Howard to visit Greece in July

MELBOURNE, 16/05/2002 (ANA - S. Hatzi-manolis)

The Australian prime minister will be honored by the Australian-Greek society over the June 22-24 weekend in Canberra for his support of efforts to return the Parthenon Marbles to Athens.

The award will come just weeks before Howard arrives in Greece for an official visit between July 4-7 and talks with Greek leadership, including Prime Minister Costas Simitis.

Meanwhile, Greek President Kostis Stephano-poulos will arrive in Australia for an official visit in early June.

[12] Opposition attacks gov't over Auditing Council's report

Athens, 16/05/2002 (ANA)

''The country is not being governed, there is a pre-electoral cloud surrounding control that emanates from the prime minister and the government dauphins. This government does not want control, it cannot serve legality and transparency, its only purpose is to hold onto power and the state,'' he said.

According to Karamanlis, the Auditing Council's report revealed an unabashed wastage and plundering of public money, a regime of cover-ups and untransparency, the involvement of vested interests in state contracts and the assignment of public projects and that the government was being leaned on by large and smaller economic interests.

The main opposition leader was also scathing about the absence of government ministers during the debate and warned that his party would not stand by while the government abolished the exam system for public-sector appointments or tolerate problems with the electoral rolls.

The government struck back through Deputy Finance Minister George Floridis, who claimed that Karamanlis was setting up an 'alibi' for his party's defeat in the coming elections and accused him of being unprepared to debate the Auditing Council's report and of 'fabricating his own conclusions'.

He also announced government plans to strengthen the legal framework for the control of public spending through a bill that would give the Auditing Council additional powers to evaluate whether public money was being put to good use. Apart from this, he added, the government intended to introduce a new method for drafting the budget.

Coalition of the Left and Progress leader Nikos Constantopoulos also slated the government with allegations of graft and succumbing to vested interests, claiming the Auditing Council's report showed the government was keeping two sets of books.

According to Constantopoulos, the one set concerned 60 per cent of spending and was the one being discussed in Parliament, while the second concerned the remaining 30-40 per cent of public spending and was not subject to the control of anyone except, perhaps, certain European bodies.

The Coalition leader claimed that budgets were being systematically exceeded and called for a series of measures to increase transparency in the spending of public funds.

[13] Public order minister briefs PM on crime prevention councils

Athens, 16/05/2002 (ANA)

The councils are an institution currently being promoted by the public order ministry in close cooperation with local administration organizations.

The minister also briefed the prime minister on issues concerning police service restructuring and problems faced by the public order ministry in its effort to consolidate a feeling of security among the Greek people.

[14] Alternate FM to attend EU-Latin America & Caribbean summit

Athens, 16/05/2002 (ANA)

[15] Tax evasion rate increased in 2001, report says

Athens, 16/05/2002 (ANA)

A report, presented by the squad's chief Dimitris Batzelis, also revealed that the average rate of tax offences in the first quarter of 2002 was around 19 percent, a rate expected to increase further in the following months.

The report said that the average rate of tax evasion in some of the major sectors of the economy in 2001 was: self-employed 25 percent, entertainment clubs and bars 28 percent, service sector 34 percent, tourism companies 31 percent, wholesale companies 25 percent, construction companies 35 percent and retail companies 30 percent.

The report noted that tax evasion was particularly evident in large and medium-sized enterprises using forged or virtual invoices worth 21 billion drachmas last year. Self-employed people were also active in tax evasion (mainly doctors, lawyers) by concealing their real incomes, custom goods smuggling that cost the state around 120 billion drachmas annually, and finally the operation of offshore companies.

The financial crimes squad said it would begin its summer inspection program in June.

[16] Hellenic Railways signs contract for Athens-Spata railroad

Athens, 16/05/2002 (ANA)

The contract envisages the construction of four-line railway track system, infrastructure projects and building of all railway stations in a new railway line linking Athens with the Spata international airport.

[17] Europarliament approves fiscal report by Greek deputy

BRUSSELS, 16/05/2002 (ANA - Y. Zitouniati)

The report by Yiannis Marinos, a Eurodeputy for the main opposition New Democracy party, criticized high deficits in Germany and Portugal.

It also opposed creative accounting practices Marinos said were employed by many countries, including Greece.

[18] Benaki Museum to receive public investments funds

Athens, 16/05/2002 (ANA)

Referring to the recent strike by Benaki Museum staff, Venizelos said that with his latest document to the finance ministry he is requesting subsidization by the state budget for the Benaki Museum in accordance with its contribution to the cultural sector.

Venizelos also mentioned other similar bodies, which are subsidized by the state, such as the National Opera House and the Athens Concert Hall Organization, with proportionate amounts.

[19] Shipping foreign exchange up $251.5 mln last year

Athens, 16/05/2002 (ANA)

A central bank's report said that the services' balance in the country's shipping foreign exchange recorded revenues totalling 8.1 billion dollars and payments worth 4.7 billion dollars last year. Tourist foreign exchange recorded revenues of 9.1 billion dollars and payments of 4.1 billion dollars over the same period.

Merchant Marine Minister George Anomeritis said the figures highlighted "Greek shipping industry's significant contribution to the country's economic growth and its large participation in the country's external trade balance."

[20] Greek stocks ease on profit taking on Wednesday

Athens, 16/05/2002 (ANA)

Turnover was an improved 132.1 million euros.

The Retail, Telecommunications and Insurance sectors suffered the heaviest percentage losses of the day (2.04 percent, 1.06 percent and 0.94 percent, respectively), while the Investment, Publication and Food-Beverage sectors scored gains (1.55 percent, 0.67 percent and 0.34 percent).

The FTSE/ASE 20 index for blue chip and heavy traded stocks fell 0.82 percent, the FTSE/ASE MID 40 index eased 0.22 percent and the FTSE/ASE SmallCap 80 index ended 0.63 percent lower.

Broadly, decliners led advancers by 197 to 125 with another 44 issues unchanged.

Market sources said the Greek bourse urgently needed some positive news to continue its move upwards and noted that a recent improvement in turnover was a significant boosting factor.

They noted that an expected decision to raise the sum of money invested in equities by pension funds' reserves, an issue currently discussed by the government, would give a further boost the market climate.

Among the most heavily traded shares in value were Public Power Corporation, EFG Eurobank Ergasias, National Bank of Greece, Alpha Bank, and Hellenic Telecoms.

Equity index futures at discount: Equity index futures on the Athens Derivatives Exchange on Wednesday traded at a slight discount, tracking a downward correction on the main market.

Turnover was heavy at 125.4 million euros.

The underlying FTSE/ASE-20 index for heavily traded stocks and blue chips shed 0.82 percent; and the underlying FTSE/ASE-40 for medium capitalization stocks lost 0.22 percent.

Bond prices slump in heavy trade: Bond prices in the domestic secondary market on Wednesday finished lower in heavy trade focusing on 10-year paper.

The Greek benchmark 10-year bond showed a yield of 5.57 percent, and the spread over the corresponding German bund was 29 basis points.

Turnover through the central bank's electronic system was 3.1 billion euros.

[21] July deadline in Athens Olympics accommodation tender

Athens, 16/05/2002 (ANA)

Eligible to apply are banking, banc assurance, real estate, travel and service sector companies.

Two or more winners are expected to be chosen in the tender called by the national organizers of the games, with guarantee set at about 600,000 euros for each short listed consortium, according to sources.

The outcome of the tender will be announced by the end of 2002.

The project was ordered to ease an accommodation problem for the flood of visitors expected at the world event.

Changes have to be made in the law before the rental program, which is to include tax relief for homeowners, can be implemented.

The Greek National Tourism Organization is to evaluate the quality of homes offered in the program.

[22] Athens 2004 Paralympics to be held in three major sports facilities

Athens, 16/05/2002 (ANA)

This was announced at a meeting of the Paralympic Games Advisory Committee on Wednesday.

A total of 950 referees-judges from Greece and abroad will be used for the games. The Greek judges will be chosen and trained by the National Paralympics Committee.

[23] Culture minister presents six-month program of Cultural Olympiad abroad

Athens, 16/05/2002 (ANA)

Venizelos noted that Greece was requesting of all countries that actively participate in the Olympic Movement to establish national Cultural Olympic committees, aiming to establish the international character of the institution.

During the press conference, the minister and the president of the Cultural Heritage S.A. company presented the program that includes arts festivals, theater plays, exhibitions and conferences in Greece and abroad.

[24] Fifty security forces' officers posted for training with Athens 2004

Athens, 16/05/2002 (ANA)

They will be the future commanders of the Olympic Games' facilities security, as they will undertake those posts as soon as they complete their training.

[25] Greek press counselor in Sofia dies of cancer

Athens, 16/05/2002 (ANA)

Frangopoulos served with Greek Embassies in Washington, Nicosia, Belgrade and Sofia. His funeral will be held in Thessaloniki on Thursday.

[26] Greek innovation in fight against oil pollution at sea

Athens, 16/05/2002 (ANA)

The ship called ''Cleanmag I-Nancy'', after the name of the innovation ''Cleanmag'' was inaugurated on Wednesday in Piraeus by Merchant Marine Minister George Anomeritis, and belongs to the Piraeus Technical Institute.

The new technology incorporated on the ship was developed by Prof. George Nikolaidis in 1996, while the pilot program for its application was funded by the European Union Life program, with a budget of two million euros. The program was also supported by the Greek government and the Piraeus Technical Institute.

Clean Mag is a porous and magnetic material in the form of beads, which has the ability to absorb oils and petrol only, in a volume six times its weight and still remain afloat, irrespective of weather conditions.

The material is spread on top an oil sleek and once it has absorbed it, the ship nears and with a magnetic conveyor belt it picks it up from the sea.

[27] President, UN Secretary General discuss ways to accelerate talks

NICOSIA, 16/05/2002 (CNA/ANA)

He also said he discussed ways and means to speed up the pace of the UN-led direct talks, which began in mid January this year.

''We had a very good meeting, we discussed how we can accelerate the negotiations,'' the president told dozens of journalists, Greek Cypriots, Turkish Cypriots, Turks and others who were covering the meeting.

Invited to identify the main obstacle in the peace talks, the president said he thought it would not be ''wise'' at this moment for each side to say what the main obstacle is.

''Let us wait to see if the Secretary General will succeed in getting understanding from both sides how to accelerate the talks,'' he said.

The morning meeting lasted 90 minutes and was attended by close aides of the two men, Annan's special adviser on Cyprus Alvaro de Soto, who conducts the direct talks, and Under-Secretary to the President Pantelis Kouros.

Later on Wednesday evening President Clerides had a joint meeting with Annan and Turkish Cypriot leader Rauf Denktash, before retiring to enjoy a dinner hosted by the Secretary General at the residence of his Acting Special Representative and Chief of Mission here Zbigniew Wlosowicz.

Annan is expected to make a statement on departure on Thursday.

Annan meets Turkish Cypriot leader: Annan met on Wednesday afternoon with Denktash. The meeting took place in the Turkish-occupied northern part of Nicosia, the world's last divided capital.

After the two-hour meeting, Denktash said he had a sincere exchange of views with the UN Secretary General, adding he hoped that Annan had benefited from this exchange of views.

Annan did not make any statement following the same procedure as earlier in the day when he met Clerides, at the Presidential Palace, in the government-controlled southern part of Nicosia.

The UN chief had gone to the occupied part of Nicosia through the Ledra Palace checkpoint, accompanied by de Soto, who conducts the Clerides-Denktash direct talks.

Members of the extremist group known as ''Grey Wolves'' gathered outside Denktash's residence, where the meeting took place, holding Turkish flags and placards, which, among others, read ''The direction we follow is that of Turkey's''. They chanted slogans against the European Union.

Denktash optimistic about settlement by June: Denktash said he is optimistic a settlement of the Cyprus problem will be reached by June and noted he still hopes the Greek Cypriot side ''will realize they are not our government''.

Speaking after his meeting with Annan, Denktash said ''we exchanged views'', noting that Annan did not bring any papers, but ''discussed the Cyprus problem in depth''.

Invited to say whether the UN Chief exercised any pressure, Denktash said ''no''. Asked if he was happy from what he heard from Annan, the Turkish Cypriot leader said ''I am always happy when I hear anybody''.

Asked if he was optimistic, Denktash said ''as you know I was always optimistic that we will find a settlement by June when I believe Greek Cypriots will realize they are not our government'', adding ''I still hope''.

Cox sends message of encouragement: President of the European Parliament Pat Cox has asked Euro MPs to join him in sending a message of support and encouragement, and to urge both parties in Cyprus to seize the moment of opportunity and settle the Cyprus problem.

Cox, who was addressing a European Parliament plenary session in Strasbourg on Wednesday, said the visit of Annan to Cyprus "will hopefully give a new impetus to the face-to-face talks on Cyprus being conducted through the good offices of the UN."

Cox said, "this is a crucial and decisive moment for enlargement, and especially for Cyprus", adding "the compelling deadline stemming from the negotiations on the accession of Cyprus to the EU has brought about an unprecedented window of opportunity for a comprehensive settlement."

"I ask the House to join with me in sending a message of support and encouragement, and to urge both parties to 'seize the moment of opportunity'," he told Euro MPs. Pat Cox visited Cyprus last week.

Relatives of missing persons appeal to Annan: ''Annan, we want our children back,'' chanted black-clad Greek Cypriot women, relatives of missing persons, who lined the street outside the Presidential Palace to greet Annan and press on with their demand to have the fate of their loved ones established.

Some 25 women, wives, daughters and mothers of missing persons, staged a peaceful demonstration holding a huge banner in English that read ''Your Excellency, we demand respect for human rights in our island. 200,000 refugees in Cyprus.''

''His motorcade slowed down and we shouted out loud that we want our children back. Mr. Annan greeted us and that pleases us,'' Androulla Aristodemou, one of the women, said.

She said she hoped the Secretary General will ask to learn about us.

''Our message is clear: we want to find out what has happened to our loved ones and we want a just settlement in Cyprus,'' she said.

Kyrenia Bishop calls on UN to impose sanctions on Turkey: Bishop of the Turkish occupied town of Kyrenia, Pavlos, sent a letter Annan by which he underlines that ''the compulsion of Turkey to conform with Security Council resolutions will be achieved only through the imposition of sanctions which the UN can impose if the organization truly seeks a just and viable solution of the Cyprus problem.''

The Bishop noted that in order for the UN to be effective ''you should demand the withdrawal of all Turkish troops and Turkish settlers and the return of all refugees to our homes and properties''.

''As the Secretary General of the United Nations Organization you are the person with the prime responsibility to order the implementation of its resolutions, and I think it is justifiable to expect you to show the appropriate determination to order this'', he added.

The Bishop said the essence of the problem was the 1974 Turkish invasion and the continued illegal occupation of part of Cyprus' territory by Turkey.

[28] Bush supports Annan's mission to Cyprus

WASHINGTON, 16/05/2002 (CNA/ANA)

The letter was sent to Annan Monday, prior to his departure for Cyprus. Bush expressed strong support to Annan's visit to the island and underlined the importance for a solution in Cyprus the soonest possible, noting that June is ''an important date'' for the efforts under way.

Annan arrived in Cyprus yesterday to meet today with Cyprus President Glafcos Clerides and Turkish Cypriot leader Rauf Denktash in their capacities as Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot leaders, respectively.

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