Browse through our Interesting Nodes on the European Union (EU) Read the Convention Relating to the Regime of the Straits (24 July 1923) Read the Convention Relating to the Regime of the Straits (24 July 1923)
HR-Net - Hellenic Resources Network Compact version
Today's Suggestion
Read The "Macedonian Question" (by Maria Nystazopoulou-Pelekidou)
HomeAbout HR-NetNewsWeb SitesDocumentsOnline HelpUsage InformationContact us
Friday, 29 March 2024
 
News
  Latest News (All)
     From Greece
     From Cyprus
     From Europe
     From Balkans
     From Turkey
     From USA
  Announcements
  World Press
  News Archives
Web Sites
  Hosted
  Mirrored
  Interesting Nodes
Documents
  Special Topics
  Treaties, Conventions
  Constitutions
  U.S. Agencies
  Cyprus Problem
  Other
Services
  Personal NewsPaper
  Greek Fonts
  Tools
  F.A.Q.
 

Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English, 05-12-15

Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English Directory - Previous Article - Next Article

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

December 15, 2005

CONTENTS

  • [01] Nationwide strike a 'great success', labor unionists say
  • [02] Gov't categorically denies abduction claims involving 7 Pakistani nationals
  • [03] Bill on public utilities reform approved in principle
  • [04] Alternate Culture Minister wraps up China visit
  • [05] EU Summit begins on Thursday
  • [06] Eurodeputies consider British presidency's proposal on fiscal prospects 'unacceptable'
  • [07] British FM communicates with Greek counterpart for discussion on EU fiscal prospects
  • [08] President Papoulias receives new Jerusalem Patriarch Theophilos
  • [09] Congresswoman Lehtinen urges U.S. gov't to contribute in solution of FYROM name issue
  • [10] Molyviatis to receive leaderships of Pan-Macedonian groups
  • [11] 'Stable and effective' cooperation exists with Greek counterparts, Bulgarian minister says
  • [12] EU Parliament approves storage of telecoms data, Greek MEP objects
  • [13] Public order minister on Athens blast investigation
  • [14] Public order minister to hold quadripartite meeting with Iranian, Pakistani and Turkish counterparts
  • [15] Election of mayors and prefects with 42 pc secures strong local administration organizations, interior minister says
  • [16] Federation of journalists unions condemns attack on two journalists
  • [17] Support for Turkish novelist Pamuk expressed in Athens
  • [18] FM Spokesman on Iranian president's statement concerning the Holocaust
  • [19] Turkish warplanes violate Greek national air space
  • [20] Bill passed for creation of National Audiovisual Archive
  • [21] Greek economy on the right track, Swiss bank says
  • [22] Business start-ups in Greece declining, ICAP survey finds
  • [23] Commission opens new round of infringement proceedings against 10 EU members over telecoms rules
  • [24] PM and tourism minister discuss advertising campaign for Greece
  • [25] Public works ministry signs contract for Piros-Parapiros water supply project
  • [26] Eurobank assesses financial sector, economy
  • [27] Petrol prices in Greece amongst the lowest in Europe for November
  • [28] Gov't to step up market controls
  • [29] Greek funding for IT upgrades at Belgrade hospital
  • [30] Mechaniki signs contract for construction of dam in Patras
  • [31] NEL to sign memorandum with Calyon Bank for debt settlement deal
  • [32] Athens Bourse Close: Small cap shares lead rally
  • [33] Novel by Rea Galanaki presented officially at Cairo Opera
  • [34] Greek art exhibit to open in NY
  • [35] Environment Ministry on problem of illegal landfill in Hania, Crete
  • [36] UNSC discusses resolution on renewal of UNFICYP's mandate
  • [37] Spokesman says Turkish Cypriot side not changing policy on Ledra
  • [38] US Embassy denies allegations that the US will recognize occupation regime

  • [01] Nationwide strike a 'great success', labor unionists say

    ATHENS, 15/12/2005 (ANA)

    The "great success" of Wednesday's nationwide labor strike, according to labor unionists of the General Confederation of Workers of Greece (GSEE) and the Civil Servants Supreme Administrative Council (ADEDY), constituted a "message to employers and the government, as was the participation in the rally held at Pedion tou Areos Square, despite bad weather conditions, which gathered the biggest volume of demonstrators assembled by the unions in past years".

    GSEE President Christos Polyzogopoulos said in his address that the participation of working people in the strike and the rally "is already shaking government policy and shouting 'enough is enough' with neo-liberal policies".

    The public sectors well as public transport operated with problems on Wednesday due to the 48-hour strike held by GSEE and ADEDY, in reaction to the bill on public utilities and corporations (DEKO). Hospitals and ambulances operated with security staff, while Olympic Airlines flew one flight per destination. Ships were docked at ports while trains did not operate.

    On Thursday, the day when the bill on DEKO will be voted, public transport and DEKOs will not operate, while there will be no railway routes.

    Taking part in the strike were the Panhellenic Federations of Press Unions (POESY) with a work-stoppage in all mass media from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

    Private banks and private schools operated normally.

    Referring to the law on public utilities, due to be ratified in Parliament on Thursday, the GSEE president said "it is the most unacceptable for working people to be enacted during the post-junta period, since it is attempting to abolish all agreements, not only in the wider public sector but in the private sector as well."

    Polyzogopoulos said the laws on eight-hour work, working hours for shops and the social insurance issue regarding bank employees were class-related and unfair.

    Speaking on incomes policy and the state budget, he said that working people were "voting against" this policy with their participation on Wednesday.

    ADEDY President Spyros Papaspyros, criticizing the budget, said that conditions of a "social winter" are being shaped. He also attacked "neo-liberal policies" and called for the resignation of Bank of Greece Governor Nikos Garganas who, as he said, is operating as an advocate of anti-labor policy.

    [02] Gov't categorically denies abduction claims involving 7 Pakistani nationals

    ATHENS, 15/12/2005 (ANA)

    The government on Wednesday again vehemently rejected charges that a handful of Pakistani workers living in Athens were abducted and interrogated last July by either Greek of foreign intelligence services, with the relevant public order minister referring to a "provocation or farce" in the case.

    Several Athens dailies over the summer initially published allegations by the seven Pakistanis, who said they were arrested in a central Athens residence, handcuffed, hooded and interrogated by English-speaking agents for some 48 hours outside of Athens regarding their connections with Britain and London. The alleged incident took place shortly after the suicide bombings in London.

    The issue again resurfaced following a BBC report that cited the fact that Greek police will begin an investigation of the allegations following repeated urgings by an attorney representing the seven and repeated inquiries by opposition political parties.

    Greek Public Order Minister George Voulgarakis pointed to the fact that the BBC report did not add any new information to the case, whereas he noted that neither the Pakistani embassy in Athens nor Pakistani authorities have been informed of such an incident.

    "No such incident existed or exists for Greek authorities," Voulgarakis said.

    His statements come ahead of a Thursday conference with Turkish and Pakistani officials over security issues and efforts to combat illegal immigration and organized crime.

    On his part, British Foreign Secretary Jack Straw earlier in the week called the allegations "complete nonsense".

    [03] Bill on public utilities reform approved in principle

    ATHENS, 15/12/2005 (ANA)

    Parliament approved in principle the bill aimed at reforming and restructuring state-run enterprises amidst heavy debate on Wednesday evening, with 160 MPs voting in favor and 119 voting against it.

    Main opposition PASOK leader George Papandreou accused the government of 'fake' reforms that have provoked the reaction of the Greek public, referring to nationwide strikes called by the country's leading trade unions.

    "The [Prime Minister Costas] Karamanlis administration claims that those striking are those who do not want to lose their privileges. If this was true you would find us supporters of your efforts. Your hunger for power, your arrogance and easy aphorisms have blinded you to the true needs of the average Greek citizen," Papandreou accused.

    "Changes in labor relations can be required in a globalized market. However, they must ensure security to workers and social consensus. You are even abolishing workers' rights to free and collective negotiations," he continued.

    Finance Minister George Alogoskoufis responded, saying that "the main opposition leader has proved, once again, that he remains trapped in the prejudices of his cadres and in political stalemates. He must decide whether he stands for the past or the future; whether he supports his party's past, corruption and graft."

    Alogoskoufis continued his criticism against the main opposition party, saying that "unfortunately, the main opposition proved that it condemns [reforms] and that it supports partisanship and state domination in economy. Unfortunately, you remain stuck in your past, which the Greek public condemned, since you left behind ruins and now you want to become plaintiffs."

    Aleka Papariga, Secretary General of the Communist Party of Greece (KKE), accused both the ruling party and the main opposition of being "completely devoted to their political programs, particularly regarding privatizations, which only serve the interests of major capital."

    On his part, Coalition of the Left, Movements and Ecology President Alekos Alavanos criticized the government, noting that "If this government wants to operate based on private [sector] criteria it should resign immediately. You are incapable of managing public assets; your strategy involves only exploiting it. You are a government of a 'divide and rule' philosophy."

    [04] Alternate Culture Minister wraps up China visit

    BEIJING, 15/12/2005 (ANA/S. Avramopoulos)

    Alternate Culture Minister Fani Palli-Petralia wrapped up her visit to China on Wednesday within the framework of the two countries' cooperation ahead of the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games with a lunch hosted in her honor by Chen Zhili, State Councilor and Beijing Organizing Committee's First Vice President.

    "The Chinese government awaits the visit of the Greek Prime Minister [Costas Karamanlis] next month, which will make ties between the two peoples, who share common historical roots, closer," Zhili told Petralia.

    It is within this framework that a relevant memorandum will be signed which will designate the period from September 2007 through the end of the Beijing Games in 2008 as "China's Year of Greece."

    "During the time that Greece will be the honored country, we want to highlight many common elements shared by the two peoples," Petralia said.

    Zhili expressed her satisfaction with the results of the first meeting of the Joint Cooperation Committee for the Olympic Games, adding that the Chinese government appreciates Greece's contribution in helping China prepare for the 2008 Games.

    [05] EU Summit begins on Thursday

    BRUSSELS 15/12/2005 (ANA)

    Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis will be arriving here on Thursday morning where he will be attending the European Union Summit beginning later in the day and focusing primarily on the EU budget.

    EU leaders will be meeting with European Parliament President Josep Borrell on Thursday afternoon.

    The summit will begin afterwards with a discussion of conclusions reached during the informal meeting at Hampton Court on October 27.

    A working dinner will follow where EU leaders will begin talks on the EU budget. A separate dinner will be held for EU foreign ministers who will focus on the Middle East issue.

    The Summit will resume on Friday morning with the aim of reaching an agreement on the EU's fiscal prospects.

    If necessary, bilateral negotiations between the British EU Presidency and member states will be held on Friday afternoon.

    [06] Eurodeputies consider British presidency's proposal on fiscal prospects 'unacceptable'

    STRASBOURG, 15/12/2005 (ANA/O. Tsipira)

    The European Parliament on Wednesday rejected the British European Union's proposal on fiscal prospects as "unacceptable".

    European Parliament President Josep Borrel said that "what is unacceptable today cannot be acceptable tomorrow. If such a thing happens then it might become a boomerang for us."

    Borrel was speaking at the end of the marathon discussion held at the Plenum on the preparation of the European Council which will get under way in Brussels on Thursday.

    Ruling New Democracy party Eurodeputy Costas Hadjidakis, who is his group's (European People's Party) coordinator, said "there are many contrasts in discussions taking place at the Council and in the proposals of the British presidency."

    He added that "there is a great contrast between great words and ambitions for a strong Europe and the fact that we are giving the EU's budget less than 2.5 percent of the total public expenditures in the 25 member-states. Many rich member-states stand in particular on what they give to the EU's budget. However, they forget that, one way or another, they take back a large part of their contributions due to the unified market, as well as to the structural funds."

    [07] British FM communicates with Greek counterpart for discussion on EU fiscal prospects

    15/12/2005 (ANA)

    British Foreign Secretary Jack Straw communicated with Foreign Minister Petros Molyviatis on Wednesday afternoon to discuss the issue of the European Union's fiscal prospects for the 2007-2013 period, also in light of the upcoming European Council, according to a press release by the foreign ministry.

    [08] President Papoulias receives new Jerusalem Patriarch Theophilos

    ATHENS, 15/12/2005 (ANA)

    President of the Republic Karolos Papoulias on Wednesday received the new Patriarch of Jerusalem Theophilos, who is making his first official visit to Greece.

    Papoulias stressed in his talks that Greece was determined to help the Jerusalem Patriarchate overcome any difficulties and underlined the importance of the Patriarchate to Greece. Restoring calm and emotional balance in the Jerusalem Patriarchate after the recent upheavals that led to the dethronement of Irineos was the first priority, he added.

    "In such times we extend a hand to all, overcome any grumbling and, many times, criticism that is groundless," he said.

    The president also reiterated Greece's great interest in a smooth course for the Jerusalem Patriarchate, describing it as a "Patriarchate of great national importance".

    Theophilos said he was moved by the reception he had received and expressed thanks for the "active support and interest shown by the Greek State" and the president personally, noting that Papoulias had signaled the importance of the new election and the restoration of calm at the Jerusalem Patriarchate through his presence and in his capacity as president.

    [09] Congresswoman Lehtinen urges U.S. gov't to contribute in solution of FYROM name issue

    WASHINGTON, 15/12/2005 (ANA)

    U.S. House of Representatives International Affairs Committee Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen has sent a letter to U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice in which she calls on the administration of President George W. Bush to be engaged in the achievement of a compromise solution on the name of the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM).

    The Republican Congresswoman of Florida, who is a ranking member of the International Relations Committee, stressed that "is in the strategic interest of the United States to actively assist UN efforts to find a name that is mutually-acceptable to Greece and FYROM."

    She underlines that Washington "can play a valuable role, behind-the scenes, to find a win-win name to this now-13 year dispute between our long-time ally, Greece, and our new friend FYROM."

    Lehtinen asks of the Bush Administration "to particularly encourage our friends in FYROM" to contribute in finding a compromise solution and to accept the proposals submitted last March by the then UN special mediator Matthew Nimetz.

    The Congresswoman also noted that last year's unilateral decision by the U.S. government to recognize FYROM with the name "Republic of Macedonia" "was very injourious to the newly-elected and extremely cooperative government of Greece".

    [10] Molyviatis to receive leaderships of Pan-Macedonian groups

    ATHENS, 15/12/2005 (ANA)

    Foreign Minister Petros Molyviatis on Wednesday was due to receive delegations from the Pan-Macedonian Association of the United States and the coordination committee of the inaugural Pan-Macedonian National Conference -- two groups highly active on the international stage in deflecting propaganda regarding the 'name issue' by circles linked to the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM)

    [11] 'Stable and effective' cooperation exists with Greek counterparts, Bulgarian minister says

    SOFIA, 15/12/2005 (ANA/B. Borisov)

    Bulgarian Interior Minister Rumen Petkov said on Wednesday that "very stable and very effective cooperation exists with Greek colleagues".

    "We have very stable and very effective cooperation with Greek colleagues. And I would like to underline the understanding of the Greek side regarding the need for the modernization of the Bulgarian interior ministry with advanced technologies. We have substantive aid on the part of our Greek counterparts on the course of implementing this modernization which, in my view, constitutes a great priority of the ministry over the next four years," Petkov said in reply to a question by the Athens News Agency (ANA) at a press conference he gave here on the occasion of his completing 100 days since the assumption of his duties.

    Relevant Greek authorities have repeatedly provided the Bulgarian police with patrol cars, motorcycles and other equipment in past years, while during the visit to Sofia last May by Public Order Minister George Voulgarakis the training of Bulgarian security service men in Athens was agreed to enable them to benefit from experience obtained by their Greek colleagues in guaranteeing excellent security for the Athens Olympic Games, observers reminded.

    The Bulgarian police are working hard and as a result crimes perpetrated in the country have been reduced in number and the percentage of murders, armed robberies and other felonies has dropped by 30 percent, according to the relevant minister.

    [12] EU Parliament approves storage of telecoms data, Greek MEP objects

    STRASBOURG, 15/12/2005 (ANA/O. Tsipira)

    The European Parliament on Wednesday approved a bill requiring telecommunications companies to store telephone and internet data from between 6-24 months as part of its fight against crime.

    The directive, which does not involve the storage of content, was adopted after intense debate.

    It includes amendments that were a compromise between the PES (Socialists) and EPP (Christian Democrats) groups with the Council and differed in some key points with the draft directive initially adopted by the Civil Liberties Committee.

    In the final text adopted, MEPs are proposing that retention of data be carried out only in specific cases, such as terrorism and organized crime, and not for the prevention of all crimes.

    The directive was adopted by 378 votes in favor, 197 against and 30 abstentions.

    Ruling New Democracy MEP and head of the party's Parliamentary Group Ioannis Varvitsiotis voted against the directive, saying that "I believe the measures being adopted through the directive will prove completely ineffective in practice. It is certain that criminals will find ways to bypass them - by using internet cafes, for instance - in order to achieve their criminal objectives."

    He also noted that the international community needs to agree on a common approach, while better coordination of measures, proper evaluation of data and improved cooperation between national law enforcement agencies are necessary.

    Finally, Varvitsiotis also cited technical difficulties in implementing the measure, concluding that "for exactly these reasons, I cannot vote for this directive."

    [13] Public order minister on Athens blast investigation

    ATHENS, 15/12/2005 (ANA)

    The Public Order Ministry is working around the clock in order to discover those responsible for the blast that rocked Athens' centre earlier in the week, Minister George Voulgarakis said in a statement issued on Wednesday.

    "We are working systematically and methodically in order to arrest those individuals involved and take them to court based on indisputable evidence," Voulgarakis said.

    "There are some who are anxious to find 'skeletons in the closet' and to dismantle law enforcement agencies. However, this is not a solution to the problem; rather the opposite," he concluded.

    [14] Public order minister to hold quadripartite meeting with Iranian, Pakistani and Turkish counterparts

    ATHENS, 15/12/2005 (ANA)

    Public Order Minister George Voulgarakis will attend a two-day conference, beginning in Athens on Thursday, with his counterpart interior ministers from Iran, Pakistan and Turkey in the framework of cooperation on tackling illegal immigration, drugs and organized crime.

    Talks between the ministers will focus on the joint handling of illegal immigration, and of human trafficking in particular, and strengthening cooperation to combat drug trafficking and organized crime in general.

    The quadripartite meeting follows the official visit Voulgarakis made to Pakistan in May this year, where an initial discussion was held on the need for cooperation between the four countries to confront terrorism, drugs, illegal immigration and organized crime.

    The conference had initially been planned to take place in Athens on October 10-11 but had been postponed due to the strong earthquake that had struck Pakistan.

    [15] Election of mayors and prefects with 42 pc secures strong local administration organizations, interior minister says

    ATHENS, 15/12/2005 (ANA)

    Interior, Public Administration and Decentralization Minister Prokopis Pavlopoulos said on Wednesday that the election of mayors and prefects with at least 42 percent of votes secures the existence of strong local administration organizations.

    Speaking during the debate of the bill titled "Arrangement of issues concerning national, prefectural and municipal elections", Pavlopoulos said that the Municipal and Community Code being processed will also be characterized by the trend to strengthen the role of the two fifths minority. The bill also contains the clause that blank ballots will not be taken into consideration in the election indicator.

    Local elections are due to take place in the country in October 2006.

    [16] Federation of journalists unions condemns attack on two journalists

    ATHENS, 15/12/2005 (ANA)

    The Panhellenic Federation of Journalists Unions (POESY) on Wednesday condemned an attack made on two journalists with crowbars by unidentified persons, saying that in essence the assailants turned against freedom of the press and the public's right to information.

    The two journalists, Christos Michalopoulos and Alexis Ponse, who work for the MEGA television channel, are being treated at an Athens hospital where they were visited by POESY President Dimitris Tsalapatis, General Confederation of Workers of Greece (GSEE) President Christos Polyzogopoulos, Athens Labor Centre President Grigoris Felonis and Athens Journalists Union (ESHEA) President Panos Sombolos.

    The board of POESY condemned the attack "in the most categorical way," stressing that "such acts, from wherever they may come and regardless of the expediency that they might be serving, will not dampen the spirit of working people."

    "Journalists, together with all working people, are struggling against the commercialization of information, they are demanding the abolition of anti-labor and anti-insurance laws and clauses, the safeguarding of all jobs and the consolidation and implementation of collective labor agreements in both the private and public sectors," the announcement by POESY said.

    [17] Support for Turkish novelist Pamuk expressed in Athens

    ATHENS, 15/12/2005 (ANA)

    Support for internationally acclaimed Turkish novelist Orhan Pamuk was expressed here on Wednesday by the Athens-based Greek Writers' Society, days before the latter goes on trial in Istanbul for statements he made concerning the Armenian genocide of 1915.

    "We consider that the public admission of a past historical event will contribute to a catharsis and the affirmation of respect for the standing principle of freedom of expression as a crown jewel of modern civilization, something that absolutely does not harm a country's national stature," a resolution, delivered to the Turkish embassy in Athens, stated.

    Pamuk was quoted in a magazine article as saying that 30,000 Kurds and one million Armenians during the last vestiges of the Ottoman era were killed in Turkey, and "no-one dares talk about it".

    [18] FM Spokesman on Iranian president's statement concerning the Holocaust

    ATHENS, 15/12/2005 (ANA)

    Foreign Ministry Spokesman George Koumoutsakos on Wednesday commented on a recent statement attributed to the President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Mr. Ahmadinejad, concerning the Holocaust.

    Koumoutsakos said:"The recent statements by the President of Iran, concerning the Holocaust are apparent that on the one hand they ignore the historic reality and on the other, not at all contribute to the promotion of peace and the creation of a climate of confidence, which is so important, in the broader region of the Middle East."

    [19] Turkish warplanes violate Greek national air space

    ATHENS, 15/12/2005 (ANA)

    National Defense General Staff sources said that on Wednesday 17 formations of Turkish aircraft infiltrated the Aegean without submitting flight plans - 20 infringements of air traffic regulations in the Athens Flight Information Region were recorded - and in 13 cases they violated national air space in the region of the central and southern Aegean.

    In all cases, the 45 Turkish aircraft were recognized and intercepted by Greek air force jets, while in three cases the interception process developed into mock dogfights. Seven Turkish formations were armed.

    The Turkish aircraft are participating in the exercise being carried out by NATO's air operations centre in Izmir under the code-name Command Lightning.

    [20] Bill passed for creation of National Audiovisual Archive

    ATHENS, 15/12/2005 (ANA)

    The bill for the creation of a National Audiovisual Archive was also passed on articles by the Parliament's Public Administration Committee on Wednesday.

    It is noted that the provision of the bill for the merger of the Macedonian Press Agency and the Athens News Agency was unanimously voted.

    [21] Greek economy on the right track, Swiss bank says

    ATHENS, 15/12/2005 (ANA)

    The Greek economy is on the right track and positive steps have been taken regarding economic policy, according to a report released by Switzerland-based Banca del Gottardo.

    According to the bank, Greece's GDP growth for the past four years has exceeded not only the European Union average, but also the average growth rate of OECD (Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development) member states.

    Greece's performance can be attributed to the reduction in interest rates and economic reforms that were implemented when the country was preparing for European Monetary Union accession in 2001, resulting in increased investments and private consumption, the bank says.

    In order to stay on course and to maintain the upward trend in GDP growth in the near future, the government must remain committed to institutional reforms that will improve labor market conditions and increase competitiveness, while also proceeding with the privatization of certain state-run companies, the report says.

    Additionally, reform of public funds must be undertaken in the near future, while the pensions issue will need to be addressed in the mid-term, the bank recommends.

    Banca del Gottardo believes that the current administration has taken correct steps but urges for a more consistent approach in the future.

    The bank forecasts that the Greek economy will grow by 3.8% in 2005 and by 3.5% in 2006.

    [22] Business start-ups in Greece declining, ICAP survey finds

    ATHENS, 15/12/2005 (ANA)

    The number of business start-ups in Greece has been steadily declining in past years while there is also a trend for new businesses to be smaller and have less initial capital, the ICAP market research organization said in a survey released on Wednesday.

    It said that 3,904 new societe anonyme (AE) and limited liability (EPE) companies had been set up in the year 2004, or 8.7 pct less than the previous year, confirming a trend established in the years since 2001.

    Of these, 50.5 pct belonged to the "miscellaneous services" sector, 30.3 pct were commercial concerns and 12.9 pct were industrial, while the rest belonged to the tourism sector. The biggest decline was in industry, where the number of new businesses was 18.9 pct less than in 2003.

    The ICAP study showed the majority of the new companies (63.0 pct) were based in Attica, while the reduction in the number of new companies was evident in all regions of Greece with the exception of the Aegean, the Peloponnese and western Greece, which displayed an impressive recovery since 2003.

    The concentration of new start-ups in Attica continues to be marked even after the different population densities are taken into account (correcting for the fact that population figures are an indication of potential business people in each area). With this measure, there were 6.26 new companies formed in Attica for every 1,000 inhabitants in the year 2004, compared to a nationwide average of 3.54 companies per 1000 inhabitants.

    The figures for 2004 also confirmed a trend for start-ups to have less initial capital - ¬ 422.5 million in total, or 26.0 pct less than the year before - resuming a decline that appeared to have slowed down in 2003.

    The drop in initial capital had been more dramatic in the years 2001 and 2002 but this was because four massive companies - including banks and the natural gas utility - had started up in the previous years and artificially boosted the total.

    Analysts said the drop in 2004 reflected both a reduction in the number of new businesses but also the reduced size of most new start-ups in 2004, whose average initial capital was ¬ 108,200 compared with ¬ 135,100 in 2003.

    There is also a trend for a reduction in the spread of initial capital between start-ups, with a convergence toward the lower end of the scale.

    Bucking the trend were new businesses in the tourist sector, where initial capital increased by 5.9 pct in spite of a reduction in the number of new start-ups.

    [23] Commission opens new round of infringement proceedings against 10 EU members over telecoms rules

    BRUSSELS, 15/12/2005 (ANA)

    The EU Commission on Wednesday sent reasoned opinions to Greece and another nine member-states -- the Czech Republic, France, Latvia, Malta, Poland, Slovakia, Germany, Finland and the United Kingdom -- demanding that they proceed with the compilation of fixed line and mobile phone subscribers' data.

    These 10 countries now have two months in which to respond before facing possible action before the European Court of Justice if they fail to comply with the EU telecom rules. In addition, the Commission sent letters of formal notice (step one in the infringement procedure) to the United Kingdom, Portugal, Cyprus, the Czech Republic and Lithuania.

    "Reasoned opinions" constitute "step two" in the Commission's infringement procedure under Article 226 of the EC Treaty.

    "Implementing EU electronic communications rules is essential to enable competition and to deliver improved services. I find it regrettable that since the entry into force of the new rules in July 2003, the Commission had to open altogether more than 50 infringement procedures to remedy shortcomings in implementation," Information Society and Media Commissioner Viviane Reding stated on the Commission's website, while adding:

    "However, I am pleased that our efforts are now showing positive results in a number of Member States and that we can close today a whole series of cases. I encourage all Member States against whom infringement proceedings are still pending to get the job done as soon as possible, as further delay could seriously endanger growth and jobs in this key sector of Europe's economy."

    [24] PM and tourism minister discuss advertising campaign for Greece

    ATHENS, 15/12/2005 (ANA)

    Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis received Tourism Development Minister Dimitris Avramopoulos on Wednesday for a routine meeting to discuss tourism policy.

    The meeting focused on current issues at the tourism ministry and the progress of its campaign to advertise Greece as tourist destination that is now underway in all the major cities of the world.

    [25] Public works ministry signs contract for Piros-Parapiros water supply project

    ATHENS, 15/12/2005 (ANA)

    The Environment, Town Planning and Public Works Ministry on Wednesday signed the contract for the Piros-Parapiros water supply project in Patra, western Greece, and its construction will begin immediately.

    The project's budget amounts to 130 million euros and the contractor company is "Michaniki SA."

    Public Works Minister George Souflias said in a statement that "with the signing of the contract for the 'Piros-Parapiros' project, the construction of yet another great project in the prefecture of Achaia (in the Peloponnese) will begin immediately."

    He added that "with the Piros-Parapiros water supply dam a final solution will be provided for the acute water supply problem of Patra and Northwestern Achaia until the year 2035, serving 297,390 permanent inhabitants, 11,200 seasonal inhabitants and two million passengers passing through the port of Patra every year and of water supply for 4,035 stremmas of the Patra Industrial Region."

    The contract for the Piros-Parapiros dam project includes the construction of the Asteriou and Vardamoura dams on the Parapiros and Piros rivers respectively, as well as related work.

    [26] Eurobank assesses financial sector, economy

    ATHENS, 15/12/2005 (ANA)

    Consumer and corporate credit will continue to grow in 2006, although at a slower rate than in 2005, while banks' profitability will also remain high in the coming year, according to EFG Eurobank forecasts released on Wednesday.

    Specifically, the bank's management predicts a 20%-25% increase in consumer credit and growth in corporate lending of 6%-7%.

    As for the possibility of Credit Agricole increasing its stake in state-run Emporiki Bank (from an approximate 11% currently), Eurobank believes that this will benefit competition in the sector and in turn consumers.

    Regarding Greek banks' expansion in Southeast Europe, Eurobank recommends that any Greek bank looking to expand further in the region should consider doing so independently, since according to Eurobank, acquisition costs will be high.

    According to Eurobank's management, economic reforms to date - in terms of liberalizing certain sectors and helping the country to achieve economic convergence with its eurozone peers - are in the right direction.

    [27] Petrol prices in Greece amongst the lowest in Europe for November

    ATHENS, 15/12/2005 (ANA)

    Greece and Luxembourg apparently enjoyed the lowest gas prices in western and central Europe for the month of November, according to figures announced by the Geneva-based European Road Information Centre (ERIC) and Britain's Automobile Association (AA).

    Diesel prices in the east Mediterranean country for November were listed as second lowest on the continent amongst 25 countries in a relevant survey.

    According to a continent-wide survey taken on Nov. 16, 2005 -- when Brent crude sold for roughly US$54 per barrel -- Greece and Luxembourg recorded prices of 1.02 euros per litre. The highest price was recorded in the Netherlands, 1.35 euros per liter, followed by Belgium and Germany (1.32 euros/liter)

    Diesel was recorded at 0.99 euros per liter in Greece, with only Luxembourg (0.89) recording a lower price.

    [28] Gov't to step up market controls

    ATHENS, 15/12/2005 (ANA)

    The government will be stepping up checks in the marketplace to ensure food safety and consumer protection, Development Minister Dimitris Sioufas announced after a meeting with ministry officials on Wednesday.

    The ministry will be sending a circular to the country's prefectures to inform them of its decision.

    [29] Greek funding for IT upgrades at Belgrade hospital

    BELGRADE, 15/12/2005 (ANA - N. Pelpas)

    Greece's ambassador to Serbia-Montenegro on Wednesday signed a contract here allocating 38,000 euros -- part of the foreign ministry's ambitious Balkan Reconstruction Plan - to the Serbian Clinical Centre for modernizing the facility's IT systems.

    The centre was represented by its director, Prof. Vojko Djukic.

    [30] Mechaniki signs contract for construction of dam in Patras

    ATHENS, 15/12/2005 (ANA)

    The construction firm Mechaniki AE on Wednesday announced that it had signed a contract with the public works ministry for the construction of a dam and reservoir on the Peiros and Parapeiros rivers in the prefecture of Patras, worth a total of ¬ 74,609,695.

    Steel pipes required for the project will be supplied by Elliniki Solinourgeia AE, a subsidiary that is 100 per cent owned by Mechaniki AE.

    The project is due to be completed in April 2009.

    [31] NEL to sign memorandum with Calyon Bank for debt settlement deal

    ATHENS, 15/12/2005 (ANA)

    The Lesvos Maritime Company (NEL) on Wednesday announced that it will be signing a memorandum with Calyon Bank for a debt settlement deal.

    The shipping line's debts came to ¬ 94.5 million on December 31, 2004 and had reached ¬ 97.8 million at the end of September this year.

    The terms of the agreement call for the payment of a lump sum of ¬ 30 million to Calyon Bank and 10 pct of the net sum that NEL expects to receive as a result of compensation claim against the company Pielstick, in exchange for the full payment of the loan and release of the company of all its debts toward Calyon.

    Calyon is acting on behalf of all the banks participating in the loan in this case, which also include JP Morgan, Natexis Banques Populaires, Credit Foncier de France and KBC Bank NV.

    If the above agreement is concluded and after expenses, NEL's net financial position is expected to improve by roughly ¬ 61 billion.

    [32] Athens Bourse Close: Small cap shares lead rally

    ATHENS, 15/12/2005 (ANA)

    The Athens general share index closed at 3,555.91 points on Wednesday, posting an increase of 0.70 percent mostly on the back of increased buyers' interest for small cap stocks. Turnover was 244 million euros.

    The FTSE/ASE-20 index for high capitalization shares ended 0.77 percent up; the FTSE/ASE-40 for medium cap stocks closed 0.66 percent higher; and the FTSE/ASE-80 for small cap shares finished higher by 2.12 percent.

    Of stocks traded, advances led declines by 180 to 81 with 64 remaining unchanged.

    Stock Futures:

  • Most Active Contract (volume): OTE (7722)

  • Total derivatives market turnover: 277.3 million euros

    Bond Market Close: Buyers lag sellers

  • Greek benchmark 10-year bond (exp. 20.7.2015): 3.56% yield

  • German benchmark 10-year bund: 3.33%

  • Most heavily traded paper: 10-year bond, expiring 20.7.2015 (1.1 bln euros)

  • Day's Total Market Turnover: 2.7 bln euros

    Foreign Exchange Rates: Thursday

    Reference buying rates per euro released by the European Central Bank:

    U.S. dollar 1.211

    [33] Novel by Rea Galanaki presented officially at Cairo Opera

    ATHENS, 15/12/2005 (ANA)

    The work by Rea Galanaki "The life of Ismael Ferik Pasha", a novel touching on the borders of history, has now become one of the leading literary links between Greece and Egypt.

    The recent translation of the work by the "Al Ahram" publishing firm, with financial support by the Hellenic Culture Foundation, was presented officially at the Cairo Opera at noon on Wednesday, while it had also been presented at the Alexandrian Library on Monday.

    Galanaki was warmly received during both events, which occurred as a result of the novel which depicts the life of a Greek from the city of Rethymno, on the island of Crete, Emmanuel Papadakis, who had been converted to Islam and then became Egypt's war minister in the 19th century.

    [34] Greek art exhibit to open in NY

    NEW YORK, 15/12/2005 (ANA/P. Panagiotou)

    Deputy Culture Minister Petros Tatoulis was due to inaugurate an exhibit featuring Greek art created during the Turkish occupation at the Alexander S. Onassis Public Benefit Foundation here on Wednesday.

    The exhibit will feature 137 works of art on loan from the Athens-based Benaki Museum and spans more than four centuries from 1453-1830.

    The Foundation's President, Antonis Papadimitriou and the Museum's Curator Angelos Delivorrias elaborated on the content, significance and timelessness of the exhibit during a joint press conference on Tuesday.

    Attending the press conference were Tatoulis, former Culture Minister Evangelos Venizelos, National Art Gallery Curator Marina Lampraki-Plaka and others.

    [35] Environment Ministry on problem of illegal landfill in Hania, Crete

    ATHENS, 15/12/2005 (ANA)

    The Environment, Town Planning and Public Works Ministry in an announcement on Wednesday attributed responsibility to the previous governments and agencies of local government for the problems which has been created in the landfill of Kouroupitos, in Chania, Crete.

    The announcement clarified ":The problem in the illegal landfill of Kouroupitos dates back to 1998 and Greece was sentenced by the European Court in 2000 with a daily fine of 20,000 euros. Therefore, our country paid the total sum of 5.4 million euros until March 2001. The decision of the European Commission to reopen the issue of Kouroupitos-Mesomouri-Korakia by sending a warning letter to the Greek government on April 1, 2005 is based on a report which was made in 2003 by independent experts for the European Commission, on the basis of which new violations for human health and the environment were ascertained. This decision, unfortunately, constitutes the indifference shown on the issue by the governments of PASOK and agencies of local government from 2000 onwards."

    [36] UNSC discusses resolution on renewal of UNFICYP's mandate

    UNITED NATIONS, 15/12/2005 (CNA/ANA)

    The UN Security Council expresses its concern over the "differences that have arisen" regarding the construction activity related to the proposed additional crossing point at Ledra Street, in the divided old city of Nicosia, and urges both sides to co-operate with UN peace-keeping force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) to resolve this issue.

    In its draft resolution regarding the renewal of the UNFICYP operation, the Security Council expresses its full support for UNFICYP and decides to extend its mandate for a further period ending 15 June 2006.

    The debate on the draft resolution began in New York on Wednesday.

    The Security Council reaffirms all its relevant resolutions on Cyprus, in particular resolution 1251 (1999) of 29 June 1999 and subsequent resolutions and calls on the Turkish Cypriot side and

    Turkish forces to restore in Strovilia the military status quo which existed there prior to 30 June 2000.

    It urges both sides to avoid any action which could lead to an increase in tension and taking note with concern, in this context, of the conduct, for the first time since 2001, of the ''Nikiforos'' military exercise, of the Cyprus National Guard and, afterwards, the ''Toros'' military exercise of the Turkish occupation forces.

    According to the draft resolution, the Security Council regrets that progress towards a political solution ''has been negligible at best'' and urges both sides to work towards the resumption of negotiations for a comprehensive settlement.

    It also welcomes the Secretary-General's continuous engagement in the search for a comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus problem.

    Regarding the humanitarian issue of the missing people, the Security Council reiterates its call to the parties to assess and address the issue with due urgency and seriousness, and welcomes in this regard the resumption of the activities of the Committee on Missing Persons since August 2004, as well as the Secretary-General's intention to appoint a Third Member as of January 2006 and to reinforce his office.

    Regarding developments at the Ledra Street, the Security Council "expresses concern that, since the release of the Secretary-General's report, differences have arisen over construction activity related to the proposed additional crossing point at Ledra Street and urges both sides to co-operate with UNFICYP to resolve this issue."

    It welcomes the fact that over nine million crossings by Greek Cypriots to the north and Turkish Cypriots to the south have taken place, and encourages the opening of additional crossing points.

    The Security Council welcomes all efforts to promote bicommunal contacts and events, including, inter alia, on the part of the UN, and urges the two sides to promote further bicommunal contacts and to remove any obstacles to such contacts.

    It welcomes all demining activity in the buffer zone, including the agreement to begin the clearing of Turkish Forces minefields in Nicosia and surrounding areas within the buffer zone.

    In its draft resolution the 15-member body welcomes and encourages efforts by the United Nations to sensitize peacekeeping personnel in the prevention and control of HIV/AIDS and other communicable diseases in all its peacekeeping operations.

    It is noted that the Government of Cyprus is agreed that in view of the prevailing conditions in the island it is necessary to keep UNFICYP beyond 15 December 2005.

    The Security Council expresses its gratitude to the Government of Cyprus and the Government of Greece for their voluntary contributions to the funding of UNFICYP and urges other countries and organizations contribute as well.

    "Taking note of the assessment of the Secretary-General that the security situation on the island continues to be stable and that the situation along the Green Line remains calm, welcoming in this context the further decrease in the overall number of incidents involving the two sides, while noting nonetheless that there were incidents of significant concern, "it expresses its full support for UNFICYP and decides to extend its mandate for a further period ending 15 June 2006," the draft text concludes.

    [37] Spokesman says Turkish Cypriot side not changing policy on Ledra

    NICOSIA, 15/12/2005 (CNA/ANA)

    The Turkish Cypriot side is handling the Ledra Street issue in a one-sided, arrogant and unprompted manner and shows no intention of changing its policy on the issue, Government Spokesman Kypros Chrysostomides said here Wednesday.

    ''There is no development on the Ledra Street issue. On the contrary, statements from the Turkish Cypriot side show that they are handling the issue in a one-sided, arrogant and unprompted manner and do not show any intention of changing their policy, despite pressure by Turkish Cypriot business-people who are demanding the demolition of the monstrosity, the bridge of division constructed by Mr. (Mehmet) Ali Talat,'' Chrysostomides said.

    Asked whether the government was satisfied with the draft Security Council resolution calling for the renewal of the mandate of UNFICYP, the spokesman said at sight, the government is satisfied, although it is expecting to final approval of the resolution.

    [38] US Embassy denies allegations that the US will recognize occupation regime

    NICOSIA, 15/12/2005 (CNA/ANA)

    The US Embassy categorically denies allegations that the US intends to recognize the regime in the Turkish occupied areas of Cyprus and repeated its commitment to the reunification of Cyprus.

    In a statement on Wednesday, the US Embassy said it ''categorically denies allegations carried in the Turkish press that the US intends to recognize'' the regime.

    ''We remain firmly committed to the reunification of Cyprus through a negotiated agreement supported by majorities on both sides,'' the US embassy said, noting that ''this has been our position for more than thirty years.''

    It also called on the media to contact the Embassy ''before printing articles on US policy.''

    Cyprus has been divided since 1974 when Turkish troops invaded and occupied the island's northern third. The unilateral declaration of independence (UDI) by the Turkish Cypriots, on 15 November 1983, was branded ''legally invalid'' by the United Nations.


    Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English Directory - Previous Article - Next Article
  • Back to Top
    Copyright © 1995-2023 HR-Net (Hellenic Resources Network). An HRI Project.
    All Rights Reserved.

    HTML by the HR-Net Group / Hellenic Resources Institute, Inc.
    ana2html v2.01 run on Thursday, 15 December 2005 - 21:34:53 UTC