Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English, 07-04-24

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

CONTENTS

[01] PM pledges 'full and active support' to Abbas efforts for independent, sovereign Palestinian state

[02] President Papoulias receives visiting Palestinian president Abbas

[03] Greece, Slovenia sign three agreements; Karamanlis meets with Slovenian PM Jansa

[04] Turkey's EU prospects, western Balkans

[05] PASOK leader meets with Slovenian PM

[06] Event on business cooperation prospects between Greece, Slovenia

[07] EU General Affairs Council probes Middle East peace process

[08] FM Bakoyannis to meet Britain's Hoon on Tuesday

[09] Inner Cabinet to discuss interior ministry topics on Tuesday

[10] Gov't on bond issue, minister

[11] Synaspismos leader on French presidential election results

[12] Events marking 92nd anniversary of Armenian genocide in 1915

[13] Greek fiscal deficit at 2.6 pct of GDP in 2006, Eurostat

[14] Deputy FM Stylianidis on Greek Plan for Economic Reconstruction of Balkans

[15] Economist conference to open on Tuesday

[16] President Papoulias opens regional conference of European trade unions

[17] Bank of Greece governor dismisses press reports over ECB interest rate policy

[18] North Asset Management examines JPMorgan's offer to buy back Greek bond

[19] Greece's second stem cell bank to open in Thessaloniki

[20] Employers' head calls for more reforms

[21] Biofuel production plant near Larissa

[22] Greek cooperative banks' assets up 26 pct in 2006

[23] Ombudsman's office praises draft law on sea transports, passengers' rights

[24] Coca-Cola Hellenic Bottling acquires Italian vendor machine company for 15.8 mln euros

[25] Nireus raises equity stake in Marine Farms to 29.88 pct

[26] 4th Conference of SE Europe Regulatory Authority Presidents

[27] European Reconstruction and Development Bank to have 10 pc stake in SENCAP share capital

[28] Capital Markets Commission suspends operation of ARTION Securities

[29] Otesat-Maritel signs cooperation agreement with Iridium Satellite

[30] Building cost index up 7.2 pct in March, yr/yr

[31] Greek stocks end 0.55 pct lower

[32] ADEX closing report

[33] Greek bond market closing report

[34] Foreign Exchange Rates - Tuesday

[35] Ministers present preparations for new traffic code, point system

[36] Interior minister presents Guide for Disabled

[37] Army celebrates feast day of patron saint, St. George

[38] Sea Diamond skipper testifies to Harbour Corps senior official

[39] Justice minister orders investigation on Malandrinos prison beating

[40] Phone call of bomb on OA flight a farce

[41] Greek Parliament delegation in Boston

[42] Sixty-six Greeks on show in Vienna's ARTmART

[43] Inmates protest at correctional facility

[44] Students hospitalized with gastroenteritis symptoms

[45] Police arrest suspected member of organised drug ring

[46] Partly cloudy on Tuesday

[47] The Monday edition of Athens' dailies at a glance

[48] Government: Cyprus fulfills all conditions for Eurozone accession

[49] Commission to adopt report on Cyprus' economy based on Maastricht criteria Politics

[01] PM pledges 'full and active support' to Abbas efforts for independent, sovereign Palestinian state

A solution to the Palestinian issue "will bring peace from the Mediterranean all the way to the Gulf," he added, speaking to journalists after the meeting.

Abbas thanked the Greek premier for the Greek government's steadfast support, and stressed the need for a lifting of the embargo, noting that "my people have been living a tragedy over the past year".

Karamanlis described the talks with Abbas as "constructive", stressing that the Palestinian President's visit was taking place at an "exceptionally criticial stage for the developments in the Middle East", but at the same time noted that the conditions for finding a solution were "riper than ever".

The premier spoke of Greece's steadfast support to President Abbas' efforts, particularly following the Mekka agreement and the formation of a government of national unity.

He described as an "immediate priority" the building of mutual confidence, in accordance with the Quartet criteria, adding that the building of confidence with the continuing dialogue between Abbas and Israeli prime minister Ehud Olmert would allow for a substantive discussion and negotiation of a just, final and viable solution to the major issues dividing the two sides.

A viable solution, he stressed, comprised a viable and democratic Palestinian state that would co-exist peacefully and im mutual security with the state of Israel.

Karamanlis outlined Greece's actions in the Un and the EU aimed at advancement of the peace process, as well as its contribution towards meeting the immediate needs of the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank.

He further reaffirmed the Greek government's readiness to support the peace process at bilateral level as well.

"Resolution of the Palestinian issue is of decisive importance, in order that the prerequisites will exist for peace in the wider area of the Middle East, from the Mediterranean to the Gulf. For this reason, we will continue to seek ways of advancing substantive negotiation and work for the consolidation of the peaceful coexistence between the Israeli and Palestinian peoples," Karamanlis said.

Abbas, in turn, stressed his conviction that a solution to the Palestinian issue would extinguish the war spots in the wider region, and expressed hope that progress would be achieved "in the immediate future", with the support of the US and the international community.

The Palestinian president said he and Karamanlis had discussed the Mekka agreement and the Arab initiative, which he said should be materialised as it constituted a "balanced solution", given that on the one hand it called on Israel to withdraw to the pre-1967 territories and on the other hand provided the ability for recognition of Israel by the Arab world.

He said they further discussed US President Bush's "vision" for peaceful coexistence between two independent states.

Abbas also appealed to the international community to lift the embargo, saying that "my people have been living a tragedy for the past year".

"Whoever wants to help must lift this embargo," he said.

[02] President Papoulias receives visiting Palestinian president Abbas

During the meeting, which was conducted in a particularly warm and friendly climate, Papoulias expressed Greece's steadfast and unswerving support for the creation of an independent Palestinian state and hope that a solution to the Palestinian problem was near at hand.

Abbas referred to the intervention of the Greek government in 1983, when Papoulias had been foreign minister, to assist the safe departure of trapped Palestinian resistance fighters and the late Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat from Lebanon on Greek ships.

"It was a very brave decision to accept us," Abbas said, while extending an invitation to Papoulias to visit the Palestinian Territories.

PASOK leader calls for end of embargo on Palestinians

Main opposition PASOK leader George Papandreou called for the lifting of an embargo imposed on the Palestinians after a meeting on Monday with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, who is currently on a visit to Athens.

Papandreou stressed the need for a government initiative for lifting the embargo at the European Union, stressing that the blockade should be lifted "so that we do not see another outbreak of extremism in the Palestinian territories."

He also repeated PASOK's positions in favour of establishing an independent Palestinian state.

Communist Party leader meets Palestinian president Abbas

Communist Party of Greece (KKE) General Secretary Aleka Papariga on Monday met visiting Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, stressing the KKE's determination to continue the struggle in support of the Palestinian people.

"We are aware that in recent years, both New Democracy and PASOK [the ruling and main opposition parties, respectively] have happily to consent under pressure and have not maintained a consistent stance on the Palestinian issue," she noted.

"Thanks to the many years of bloody resistance by the Palestinian people, recently from the Lebanese people and the Iraqi resistance, the Palestinian problem has not yet ended negatively," she added.

According to Papariga, the United States and "other imperialists" had not yet succeeded in "burying" the problem.

"For this reason, the road must be kept wide open for seeking a substantive solution of the Palestinian problem by creating a truly independent Palestinian state, and not a protectorate as the plans of the imperalists say," KKE's leader concluded.

Abbas meets SYN leader Alavanos

Abbas also held a meeting with the leader of the left-wing Coalition of the Left, of Movements and Ecology (SYN) party Alekos Alavanos on Monday.

In statements afterward, Alavanos said that he had expressed the party's support of efforts to implement UN resolutions on the Palestinian issue.

"We consider it important that the Greek government not consent to be influenced by the United States, especially on the issue of immediately ending the economic blockade of Palestine, which effectively creates a hothouse for violence. On the contrary, it must actively contribute to a European policy that is different to that of the U.S., which seeks a speedy solution of the Palestinian problem through political means, so that two states can coexist, Israel and Palestine, with their pre-1967 borders and with East Jerusalem as capital," he said.

[03] Greece, Slovenia sign three agreements; Karamanlis meets with Slovenian PM Jansa

The agreements deal with cooperation within the framework of a multinational coordination centre for strategic maritime transports, cooperation between the two countries' oceanography services and tourism cooperation.

In his round of contacts with Greek leaders, Jana also held talks with main opposition PASOK leader George Papandreou.

In terms of the bilateral pacts, Greek defence minister and the Slovenian foreign minister, Evangelos Meimarakis and Dimitrij Rupel, respectively, signed the first two agreements on behalf of the two governments, whereas the tourism deal was signed by Tourism Development Minister Fani Palli-Petralia and Slovenia's Minister of Economic Affairs Andrej Vizjak.

Vizjak also met separately with Economy and Finance Minister George Alogoskoufis.

In talks on all levels, both sides expressed volition to increase trade and economic ties.

Jana's official visit to Athens follows an invitation by Karamanlis, made during the latter's visit to Ljubljana last January for the ceremonies honoring Slovenia's much-coveted "euro zone" accession.

In brief statements, the Slovenian PM noted that his country assumes the EU's rotating presidency in the first half of 2008, while emphasising the need for greater trade and investments between the two countries. Along those lines, he said a "Slovenia Week" was underway this week in Athens, with two initial goals being to boost maritime transports via Piraeus and a direct Slovenia-Greece air link.

[04] Turkey's EU prospects, western Balkans

He nevertheless repeated Athens' leitmotif of absolute adherence to conditions set out by the Union -- "full compliance (with the EU's conditions) means full accession", Karamanlis repeated, while adding: "when time allows."

He also again voiced his support for western Balkan states' European prospects.

On his part, Jana said his country favors an "open doors" policy, and in specifically referring to EU hopeful Turkey, he underlined that the EU has demonstrated its seriousness, although he observed that a latest "chill" in Ankara's accession course is due to its failure to meet pre-conditions

The Slovenian leader added that candidate-states themselves are responsible for meeting, or not meeting, their obligations vis-à-vis the Union.

Kosovo

Asked about the nagging Kosovo question, the Greek premier remarked that although major differences still separate the two sides -- even as negotiations have entered their final phase -- efforts to find a violable and functional solution should not end.

"Whatever solution must, at least, be acceptable by all," he said, adding that a deal will also require approval by the UN Security Council.

Jana said Kosovo remains an "open issue" that must be resolved as soon as possible via a solution acceptable by all sides, whereas the Ahtisaari proposals are "in the right direction".

FYROM

Additionally, Karamanlis merely noted that Greece's positions over the "name issue" with the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM) remain unchanged, as the target still remains a "mutually acceptable solution".

"We have taken the necessary steps, but we've only witnessed an intransigent stance by the other side; we're waiting for this (stance) to change," he said.

Finally, asked to comment on the first round in the French presidential elections on Sunday, Karamanlis simply stated that "we'll wait and see what happens in the second round".

On Tuesday, Jana will be awarded the Gold Medal of Merit of the City of Athens Athens Mayor Nikitas Kaklamanis during a ceremony at City Hall.

[05] PASOK leader meets with Slovenian PM

"After the issue, which emerged regarding Cyprus' accession to the eurozone, I underlined that the Slovenian presidency should, without any other preconditions apart from those existing for all member-states, accept the accession of the Republic of Cyprus to the eurozone," Papandreou told reporters.

German Minister of Finance Peer Steinbrueck was reportedly quoted last week as saying that Cyprus' accession to the eurozone may have political repercussions, and thus should be discussed on a political level.

"Unfortunately, the New Democracy government was taken by surprise on this issue again, as was the case on other issues, such as the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia's (FYROM) name. It seems that it has no plan on foreign policy. It seems that it has a plan only for the (Social Security Funds) bonds," Papandreou charged.

[06] Event on business cooperation prospects between Greece, Slovenia

The finance minister ascertained that "Greek-Slovenian relations are on a very good level and are being strengthened daily."

"The cooperation between the two countries within the framework of the European Union is creative and effective and it is ascertained that within the framework of South East Europe that the cooperation between the two countries bears fruit for the entire region. However, we have the possibility of proceeding even further, both on a political level as well as on the economic and business level. The cooperation of the Greek business community with the Slovenian one is certain that it will lead to important results," Alogoskoufis said.

In his speech, the finance minister underlined that Greece and Slovenia can gain a great deal from the further strengthening of their cooperation. "We can strengthen the flow of investments between our countries. We can consolidate a climate which will encourage entrepreneurship and formulate the prerequisites for an even closer and integrated cooperation in trade, tourism and services. Today, the conditions for the promotion of our cooperation are more favourable than ever before," Alogoskoufis added.

On his part, Slovenian Prime Minister Jansa referred to "the friendly relations between the two countries" and noted that Slovenia these past years has made important efforts which led to the great growth of its economy and had as culmination its accession to the European Union and the Eurozone. The Slovenian prime minister recognised "Greece's important help towards this target" and noted that this will further strengthen, given that Slovenia will assume the Presidency of the European Council in the first six months of 2008.

According to the president of the Central Union of Chambers of Greece (KEEE) and of the Commercial and Industrial Chamber of Piraeus, George Kasimatis, Slovenia constitutes one of the richest states of former Eastern Europe, possessing the highest per capita Gross Domestic Product, reaching 86 per cent of the average percentage of the European Union. Its relatively high inflation in the past was reduced to 2.3 per cent in 2006. The country's economy is moving steadily and is growing at an annual rate close to 5 per cent in the past five-year period. All the more restrictions to foreign investments are slowly being eliminated and as a result, the index of foreign investments is expected to present an important increase, Kasimatis said.

According to data of the Panhellenic Federation of Exporters, Greece in 2006 exported to Slovenia goods worth 200.8 million euros against 37.8 million euros in 2005, marking a 431 per cent increase. Slovenia in 2006 exported to Greece goods worth 79.2 million euros, against 52.5 million euros in 2005, marking a 50.2 per cent increase. In January 2007, Greece's exports to Slovenia reached 21.7 million euros, against 5.7 million euros of imports.

[07] EU General Affairs Council probes Middle East peace process

The peace process in the Middle East was the main issue discussed at the European Union's General Affairs Council here on Monday. Greece's positions were outlined by Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis.

Bakoyannis said in a statement that during the relevant discussion at the Council, Greece maintained that all efforts must be aimed at supporting the Palestinian government, alleviating its economic ordeal and continuing contacts with certain ministers in this government, particularly the foreign minister and the finance minister.

She added that the Greek side presented the Council with a proposal for the Palestinian foreign minister to be invited to the General Affairs Council for an extensive discussion, as is the case with all the sides involved.

According to Bakoyannis, Greece also maintained that the process of contacts between the "quartet" and the four Arab countries involved in this issue must go ahead and that these consultations must then be continued with the participation of the Palestinians and the Israelis as well.

The foreign minister stated that the aim is for suitable pressures to be exercised at a crucial moment so that, provided this is possible, a new impetus can be given to the peace process in the Middle East.

Replying to a question on the results of the first round of the French presidential elections, Bakoyannis said that the mass participation of the French people in the election process is an extremely encouraging message and a reply to all who believe that democracy is experiencing difficult times and that a representation crisis exists.

Also commenting on the course of Cyprus' accession to the eurozone, the foreign minister said that the relevant decision must be taken only on the basis of economic criteria, as is the case for the rest of the candidate countries.

She further said that no exception must be made in the way with which Cyprus will be handled and made the assessment that there will be no political criteria for the accession of Cyprus to the eurozone.

The issue was also discussed on the sidelines of the Council by Cyprus Foreign Minister George Lillikas and the presiding German Foreign Minister Frank Walter-Steinmeier.

Lillikas stressed the conviction in a statement that only economic criteria will apply for the accession of Cyprus to the eurozone and that political criteria will not be taken into consideration.

[08] FM Bakoyannis to meet Britain's Hoon on Tuesday

Hoon will be on a working visit to Athens. Regional issues of mutual interest, such as recent developments in the Cyprus problem and the Balkans, especially Kosovo, and EU issues will be at the focus of the meeting.

[09] Inner Cabinet to discuss interior ministry topics on Tuesday

[10] Gov't on bond issue, minister

Antonaros told reporters that a response has repeatedly been given on the question, dismissing speculation on whether or not the premier has requested the minister's resignation.

[11] Synaspismos leader on French presidential election results

"When the Left is divided then it is marginalised, as we saw in the French elections. If one imagines only one candidate, instead of the six different ones, then the Left's role would have been more decisive in these elections," Alavanos underlined.

"If we remember the miracle achieved by the cooperation of these same forces, which led to the collapse of the entire Euro-constitution, then we can understand that the only road for the Left is common action. It is the road that we, of the Coalition of Radical Left (Syriza), follow steadfastly in Greece," he added.

[12] Events marking 92nd anniversary of Armenian genocide in 1915

Those who gathered at Syntagma Square organised a march to the Turkish embassy to deliver a memorandum, holding a huge Armenian flag, torches and placards, while shouting slogans against the Turkish government which, as they said, despite international pressures, "is insisting intransigently on the position of absolute denial of historical truth and the genocide it carried out in 1915 against a people with 1,500,000 victims."

It was added that pressures being exerted are coming from both the European Parliament and the Council of Europe that have recognised the genocide and are calling on Turkey to assume its responsibilities.

The memorandum stressed, among other things, that "Turkey must be aware that as long as the crime of genocide and the flagrant violations of human rights are casting a shadow on its past and present, the gates of Europe, that it ardently desires to join, will remain closed. Democratic Europe will never accept to become an accomplice of a hideous crime."

Financial News

[13] Greek fiscal deficit at 2.6 pct of GDP in 2006, Eurostat

Eurostat, in an announcement, said the Greek fiscal deficit totaled 5.1 billion euros in 2006, or 2.6 pct of GDP, from 5.5 pct in 2005 (9.9 billion), 7.9 pct in 2004 (13.3 bln) and 6.2 pct in 2003 (9.6 bln euros).

Hungary (9.2 pct), Italy (4.4 pct), Poland (3.9 pct), Portugal (3.9 pct) and Slovakia (3.4 pct) recorded the biggest fiscal deficits in 2006, while Denmark (4.2 pct), Finland (3.9 pct), Estonia (3.8 pct) and Bulgaria (3.3 pct) recorded fiscal surpluses last year.

Greece's public debt eased to 104.6 percent of GDP in 2006 (204.2 bln euros), from 107.5 pct (194.6 bln) in 2005, 108.5 pct (182.7 bln) in 2004 and 107.8 pct (167.7 bln euros) in 2003.

Italy (106.8 pct) recorded the biggest public debt among EU member-states last year, while Estonia (4.1 pct), Luxembourg (6.8 pct), Latvia (10 pct) and Romania (12.4 pct) recorded the lowest public debt rates in 2006.

Eurostat said public spending in Greece totaled 46.1 pct of GDP in 2006, slightly up from a 45.8 pct average rate in the Eurozone.

The statistics agency said the Greek figures were based on non-revised GDP figures offered recently by the country's National Statistics Service. Eurostat said revised figures were under examination by community services.

[14] Deputy FM Stylianidis on Greek Plan for Economic Reconstruction of Balkans

He said that "the European Corridor X" is expected to constitute for Thessaloniki and the broader region of northern Greece, the basic pillar for the growth of trade transactions and of the tourism flow, mainly by road, from western Balkan countries, but also from countries of central Europe.

As he said, the project, which constitutes one of the most important public works of ESOAB, is being tendered, with the objective of its construction starting within 2007. The total length, which Greece will co-finance through ESOAB, comes to about 108 kilometres, with a total budget of 625 million euros and the Greek participation being estimated at 150 million euros.

Regarding private productive investments, Stylianidis said that there are great margins for the financing of companies by ESOAB, for Serbia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Montenegro and Kosovo, while Albania, Bulgaria and Romania have absorbed the total amount of the funds which correspond to them. The total to date approved investments comes to 41.6 million euros, against 29.3 million euros in 2004, with 57 new units in the region, from which more than 3,500 new jobs were created.

Presenting ESOAB's general course, Stylianidis stressed that the total commitments at present come to 270.6 million euros, that is, 52.1 per cent of ESOAB, against 6.8 per cent in 2004, of which 227 million euros concern public investments or 55.4 per cent of the budget, against 1.4 per cent in 2004. In ESOAB's "special code" there are secured funds of 50 million euros, while also other funds which have derived from cuts from non-governmental organizations.

[15] Economist conference to open on Tuesday

Speakers at the conference include prime minister Costas Karamanlis, main opposition PASOK leader George Papandreou, ministers, europarliamentarians, ministry secretaries general, heads of organisations, and corporate CEOs.

Foreign speakers include EU economic and monetary affairs commissioner Joaquin Almunia, US ambassador to Greece Charles Ries, German former foreign minister Joschka Fischer, ministers and representatives of Southeast European countries and the Arab world, senior officials of international economic organisations, the World Bank and the World Trade Organisation.

The Economist 11th Roundtable with the Greek Government reflects the important role played by Greece, as a SE European country and EU member, for peace, security and the consolidation of democracy in the wider region. The broad participation of officials of public life and important international personalities indicates the success of the Economist conferences in Greece, according to Economist public relations chief in Greece, Panayotis Tsafaras, which he said have become an institution in the country and point to Greece's geostrategic and economic importance in the wider region.

[16] President Papoulias opens regional conference of European trade unions

General Confederation of Workers of Greece (GSEE) president Yannis Panagopoulos, speaking to reporters, repeated the demand for the return to pension funds of all the money lost through the structured bonds affair, stressing that interest on the monies should also be paid by those responsible.

He pointed out that GSEE has assigned a team of legal advisers to issue an expert opinion on the bonds losses and file lawsuits in national and European courts.

GSEE and the Confederation of Civil Servants (ADEDY) have already requested to meet with the prime minister and the political party leaders to brief them on their positions on the bonds affair, while the GSEE-ADEDY National Council will convene on Tuesday to organize the May 1 and May 15 strike action.

[17] Bank of Greece governor dismisses press reports over ECB interest rate policy

[18] North Asset Management examines JPMorgan's offer to buy back Greek bond

"North is examining the proposal and has communicated with JP Morgan regarding its terms," the brokerage firm said in a statement.

JP Morgan last week offered to buy back the 280-million-euro structure bond it underwrote, from North Asset Management at its selling price and then to submit an offer of returning the bond to the Greek state under the initial terms of issuance.

JP Morgan said it hoped that others involved in the bond sale would follow its example.

[19] Greece's second stem cell bank to open in Thessaloniki

The Athens Academy stem cell bank is the only such bank currently in operation in Greece.

Stem cells are primal cells common to all multi-cellular organisms that retain the ability to renew themselves through cell division and can differentiate into a wide range of specialized cell types. The stem cells can be taken only in the case of in vitro fertilization and clinical tests made so far were aimed at treating people with cancer.

[20] Employers' head calls for more reforms

Addressing an event organised by the Foreign Press Association, Dimitris Daskalopoulos said: "Somebody played with our money, workers' and employers' contributions and our reserves. There are management and legal responsibilities in the case. There are also political responsibilities but we do not seek them in persons, but in the taking of measures to rid pension funds from party pressures".

Daskalopoulos reminded that SEB has unveiled seven actions for a better management of pension funds.

Commenting on questions over the possibility of early elections in the country, Daskalopoulos said he supported quick procedures.

"It's speed we need. We do not favour extended pre-election periods".

He said efforts in the economic sector seemed to bring results, with infrastructure expanding, the country's fiscal condition improving, a more stable tax regime, higher investments, lower unemployment, inflation under control, a dynamic stock market and higher inflows of foreign capital in the country.

He added, however, that despite all this the country still lagged behind in all competitiveness lists and said there was no room for complacency.

Daskalopoulos noted that the state was raising hurdles to needed reforms and stressed that "political party consensus has become an alibi for inaction".

[21] Biofuel production plant near Larissa

Experts stress that the specific biofuel is environmentally friendly because it comes from plants that have absorbed equal or larger quantities of carbon dioxide compared to the carbon dioxide that will be released into the atmosphere when the biofuel is burned.

[22] Greek cooperative banks' assets up 26 pct in 2006

Savings deposits rose 27 pct to 2.1 billion euros, loans rose 21 pct to 1.9 billion euros and pre-tax profits rose 21 percent to 43.3 million euros.

Nikos Myrtakis, the Association's president, said last year's results highlighted a very good performance by cooperative banks, while he noted that banks' members totaled 174,612 last year.

Panhellenic Bank SA said assets jumped 37 pct to 626 million euros, loans rose 45 pct to 455 million euros, deposits totaled 567 million euros (up 40 pct) and pre-tax profits jumped to 5.1 million euros in 2006, form 500,000 euros in 2005. The bank operates a network of 172 branches, the eighth largest network in the country.

PanCretan Bank is the largest cooperative bank in Greece (1.2 bln in assets and 51 branches), followed by the Hania Bank, Dodecanese, Achaia Bank, Trikala, Lamia and Evia.

[23] Ombudsman's office praises draft law on sea transports, passengers' rights

The Ombudsman's office notes that the initiative is significant and aims at dealing with problems that arise during the busy summer months, such as vessels' break-downs and the overall effective operation of coastal shipping.

Other observations refer to compensation of passengers in case of scheduled route cancellations or delays, ticket refunds, the option of written passenger complaints or praise, passenger insurance, publication of passengers' complaints and solutions adopted by route operators for people with disabilities.

[24] Coca-Cola Hellenic Bottling acquires Italian vendor machine company for 15.8 mln euros

Doros Constantinou, Coca-Cola Hellenic Bottling's chief executive, said the acquisition offered the Greek company the opportunity to strengthen its presence in Italy's vendor machine market.

The acquisition is not expected to have any significant impact on Coca-Cola Hellenic Bottling's profitability because of the Italian company's small size.

[25] Nireus raises equity stake in Marine Farms to 29.88 pct

The Greek-listed company had bought 17.9 pct in the Norwegian company in April 27.

Nireus Group said it expected this year's sales to reach 300 million euros and its pre-tax and minorities profits to reach 35 million euros, after the integration of Marine Farms' accounts, and said its investment in the Norwegian company totaled 35 million euros.

The Greek company has expanded into international markets with acquisitions and direct investments in Turkey and Spain.

[26] 4th Conference of SE Europe Regulatory Authority Presidents

The conference was held in cooperation with the Serb Electronics Communications Regulatory Authority in the framework of the 2nd International Conference on broadband services.

The Regulatory Authorities of Albania, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Croatia, Montenegro, FYROM and Serbia participated in it, while representatives of the European Commission and the Stability Pact also attended.

The next conference of presidents will be taking place in October 2007 and will be hosted by Bosnia-Herzegovina, following a request made by the Bosnian Regulatory Authority.

[27] European Reconstruction and Development Bank to have 10 pc stake in SENCAP share capital

Consequently, the company's new share composition will be:DEH SA 45 percent, ContourGlobal LLC 45 pc and EBRD 10.

EBRD is an international fiscal foundation in which 60 countries, the European Union and the European Investments Bank (EIB) are participating. It has a presence in 27 countries with investments amounting to 33.3 billion euros since 1991 in the countries of eastern and southeastern Europe, Russia and the countries of central Asia.

[28] Capital Markets Commission suspends operation of ARTION Securities

The Commission said, however, ARTION Security would continue to offer intermediary security transaction services to its customers.

The decision to suspend the operations of the company was taken after the Capital Markets Commission's inspections found that ARTION was an active player in state bond transactions in the period March 2003 until January 2005 in prices sharply higher compared with prices prevailing in the Greek electronic secondary bond market, leaving Greek pension funds with significant losses.

[29] Otesat-Maritel signs cooperation agreement with Iridium Satellite

According to an announcement, the agreement signals for Otesat-Maritel a further widening of its trade portfolio with the accession to it of Iridium satellite products, as well as the strengthening of its position in the Greek and international telecommunications satellite services market.

The Iridium Satellite LLC company provides voice, fax and data services that are directed to land, air and sea with global coverage, including the five oceans and the two poles.

[30] Building cost index up 7.2 pct in March, yr/yr

The statistics service said the building cost index was up 0.8 pct in March from February 2007.

The statistics service said the building price category composite index rose 3.5 pct in the first quarter of 2007, compared with the corresponding period in 2006, and was up 0.5 pct from the fourth quarter of 2006.

[31] Greek stocks end 0.55 pct lower

Most sectors ended lower with the Oil (1.80 pct), Media (1.07 pct) and Telecommunications (0.85 pct) suffering the heaviest percentage losses of the day, while Utilities (1.43 pct), Personal/Home Products (1.05 pct) and Travel (0.58 pct) scored gains.

The Big Cap fell 0.59 pct, the Mid Cap index rose 0.05 pct and the Small Cap index ended 0.70 pct higher.

Imako Media (20 pct), ANEK Lines (19.48 pct) and Altec (9.52 pct) were top gainers, while Galis (16.23 pct), Atermon (7.41 pct) and Klonatex (5.71 pct) were top losers.

Broadly, advancers led decliners by 130 to 122 with another 55 issues unchanged.

Sector indices ended as follows:

Insurance: -0.09%

Industrials: -0.74%

Commercial: +0.28%

Construction: -0.70%

Media: -1.07%

Oil & Gas: -1.80%

Personal & Household: +1.05%

Raw Materials: +0.27%

Travel & Leisure: +0.58%

Technology: +0.19%

Telecoms: -0.85%

Banks: -0.63%

Food & Beverages: -0.83%

Health: -0.85%

Utilities: +1.43%

Chemicals: +0.13%

Financial Services: -0.11%

The stocks with the highest turnover were Alpha Bank, National Bank, OTE and Marfin Popular Bank.

Selected shares from the FTSE/ASE-20 index closed in euros as follows:

Alpha Bank: 24.16

ATEbank: 3.92

Public Power Corp (PPC): 18.48

HBC Coca Cola: 32.50

Hellenic Petroleum: 11.14

Emporiki Bank: 21.20

National Bank of Greece: 42.00

EFG Eurobank Ergasias: 31.16

Intralot: 24.04

Cosmote: 23.16

OPAP: 28.24

OTE: 21.60

Titan Cement Company: 43.00

[32] ADEX closing report

The June contract on the FTSE 20 index was traded at a discount of 1.50 percent, while the April contract on the FTSE 40 index at a discount of 0.45 pct.

Volume in futures contracts on the FTSE 20 index was 5,311 contracts worth 67.701 million euros, with 32,610 open positions in the market, while on the FTSE 40 index volume was 854 contracts worth 26.129 million euros, with 1,847 open positions.

Volume in futures contracts on equities totaled 2,753 contracts worth 3.007 million euros, with investment interest focusing on ATEbank's contracts (349), followed by OTE (139), PPC (304), National Bank (266), Alpha Bank (106), Intracom (161), GEK (260) and Mytilineos (321).

Volume in stock repos was 922 contracts and in reverse stock repos 50 contracts.

[33] Greek bond market closing report

The 10-year benchmark bond (July 20, 2017) was the most heavily traded security with a turnover of 921 million euros. The yield spread between the 10-year Greek and German bonds was 0.23 percent, with the Greek bond yielding 4.44 pct and the German Bund 4.21 pct.

In the domestic interbank market, interest rates were largely unchanged. National Bank's overnight rate was 3.84 pct, the two-day rate was 3.84 pct, the one-month rate 3.85 pct and the 12-month rate rose to 4.28 pct from 4.26 pct on Friday.

[34] Foreign Exchange Rates - Tuesday

U.S. dollar 1.366

Pound sterling 0.683

Danish kroner 7.511

Swedish kroner 9.271

Japanese yen 162.2

Swiss franc 1.655

Norwegian kroner 8.171

Cyprus pound 0.586

Canadian dollar 1.534

Australian dollar 1.640

General News

[35] Ministers present preparations for new traffic code, point system

The ministers declared the start of a series of seminars to train the management of the traffic police and transport directorates in prefectures on the new traffic code and other road safety rules.

Liapis said the seminars ushered in Global Road Safety Week - established by the United Nations for the first time this year - in the best possible way, and demonstrated the very high level of cooperation between the transport and public order ministries for improving road safety and reducing motor accidents.

The two ministers also presented the upgraded and modernised point system - dubbed the Driver Behaviour Monitoring System and known by its Greek acronym SESO - that will be used to monitor the proper implementation of the new traffic code. Its aim is to make sure that regular offenders, who are the most dangerous for road safety, do not go unpunished.

An electronic link between the two ministries begins pilot operation on Monday, ensuring up-to-date infrastructure for the efficient implementation of the SESO.

Under the new traffic system, drivers that accumulate 25 points in three years - or two years for professionals - will be stripped of their driving licence. They will also lose their licence if they are booked for the same dangerous traffic code violation - such as drink-driving or running a red light - in the space of a year, regardless of the total points on their licence.

Offenders whose licence is taken away will only be able to get it back by taking driving lessons and retaking the driving test.

The highest penalties - each adding nine points to the licence per offence - are for drink-driving, failure to observe a red light or a stop sign, street racing, illegally entering a level crossing, illegal U-turns, parking in a disabled space and failure to use one's headlights in tunnels.

[36] Interior minister presents Guide for Disabled

The guide was produced by a committee comprised of staff from the interior and health ministries, the Health Service Inspectors Body and representatives of disabled persons' organisations.

In his address, Pavlopoulos said that one of the greatest problems for society was developing equality and freedom of personality, as well as protection for the disabled. He stressed that the latest revision of the Constitution had introduced articles guaranteeing the autonomy, professional integration and participation of people with disabilities in the country's social, economic and political life.

While admitting that there were great shortfalls on these issues, the minister said that measures taken in recent years by order of Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis were slowly filling the vacuum and each service was taking the measures required.

According to ministry officials, the new guide provides useful information for disabled people that would help in their social integration, such as the subsidies they were entitled to, new facilities - such as access to public transport - and new services begun in recent years, such as the Social Support Centres and the Disability Card.

[37] Army celebrates feast day of patron saint, St. George

This year's ceremony was held at the Halkida infantry academy, with Deputy Defence Minister Vassilis Mihaloliakos representing the government and MP Theodoros Pangalos the main opposition.

[38] Sea Diamond skipper testifies to Harbour Corps senior official

The cruise ship had struck a reef on the island and sank the following day. Two French nationals, a father and his daughter, are missing.

The possibility cannot be excluded of the testimony of the skipper of the sunken cruise ship continuing on Tuesday as well, if it is not concluded by late Monday night. The other officers of the ship who were on shift at Sea Diamond's bridge will also be called on to testify.

Legal proceedings have already been launched against the captain of Sea Diamond on misdemeanor charges.

[39] Justice minister orders investigation on Malandrinos prison beating

Special penitentiary secretary F. Vlachos is also on his way to the prison for a briefing on the demands of the approximately 85 detainees, who are refusing to return to their cells and to have their meals.

The detainees (from two wings in the prison) claim that they have harsh treatment by prison guards. The regional public prosecutor has also arrived at the prison.

[40] Phone call of bomb on OA flight a farce

The 129 passengers aboard OA flight 145 en route from Athens to Brussels via Strasbourg, included 11 Europarliamentarians, were all safely evacuated from the airplane, and a stringent security search by German police had not turned up anything suspicious.

Greece's Consul General in Munich rushed to the airport to provide any necessary assistance.

The airplane took off at 9:15 a.m. from Athens, and about an hour later, at 10:10 a.m., an unidentified caller phoned a police station near Athens' international airport warning that "an explosive device has been planted on the airplane carrying out OA flight 144".

Given that there was no OA flight 144 scheduled at the time, the crisis management committee, in an emergency meeting, decided to put out an alert on the airplane carrying out flight 145, and ordered the pilot to land at Munich airport, where strict security measures were put in force.

The passengers resumed their destinations after a delay of more than six hours.

[41] Greek Parliament delegation in Boston

The March 25 Greek Independence Day was celebrated in a solemn ceremony in Boston during which Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick signed a proclamation on Greece's National Independence Day.

The ceremony, held at the Massachusetts Governor's Mansion, was attended by a Greek parliamentary delegation headed by Parliament vice-president Sotiris Hatzigakis, who was bestowed a special distinction by the Governor of Massachusetts. Among those who also received distinctions for their contribution in politics and philanthropy were, Metropolitan Bishop Methodius of Boston and Dr. George Behrakis, while a distinction was also awarded to the late Paul Tsongas, a former Massachusetts Senator and a Democratic Party nominee for the US Presidency.

Hatzigakis also received a special distinction bestowed by the Senate and House of Representatives of the New England states in recognition of his contribution to Hellenism.

The Greek delegation attended a gala at the Greek Consulate in Boston on the occasion of the March 25 Greek Independence Day celebrations.

The Greek Parliament vice-president had also the opportunity to address an audience at Harvard University on The new challenges for the world today - Joint responsibilities and prospects, and met with Dean Joseph McCarthy, Greek faculty members and students.

[42] Sixty-six Greeks on show in Vienna's ARTmART

Borrowing a concept originated by the Cheapart gallery in Greece, ARTmART offers the public the opportunity to buy any of the 2,000 works of art in the exhibition at the flat-rate price of just 70 euros - and also acts as an experimental field for new artists and new collectors.

The exhibition is taking place in the framework of Vienna Art Week and is sponsored by the Organisation for the Promotion of Greek Culture, while the Cheapart Gallery has taken on its organisation and the choice of the Greek artists taking part.

[43] Inmates protest at correctional facility

Inmates in three prison wings reportedly declined to report to the commisary for lunch and staged sit-in protests against improper behavior by prison staff and poor living conditions, i.e. an interruption in the tap water supply.

[44] Students hospitalized with gastroenteritis symptoms

Forty of them remained in hospital during the night for further tests and the rest were accommodated in local hotels.

The first symptoms appeared after the students and their teacher escorts had dinner in the town of Kalabaka before departing for Sparta.

The attending doctors believe that food poisoning caused the gastroenteritis symptoms and a police investigation is underway in all restaurants and food stands visited by the students.

A similar incident was recorded roughly a month ago involving Glyfada, Athens high school students who were also on a school trip and had the gastroenteritis symptoms on their way back from Kalabaka.

[45] Police arrest suspected member of organised drug ring

They said the man was caught in the Paleo Faliro area in Athens following a manhunt lasting several days.

During a search of his car, police found and confiscated a can filled with cocaine weighing 365 grammes and a package of powder used cut cocaine weighing 30 grammes. In the man's home, they found and confiscated 2.138 kilos of cocaine crystals, about 32 kilos of powder used to cut cocaine, several packages of cannabis weighing 87.5 kilos in total, two guns, one of which was fitted with a silencer, 105 cartridges of various calibres, two precision scales, 2,500 euros, as well as equipment and materials for packaging drugs.

The man has appeared before a public prosecutor and will go before an examining magistrate.

Weather Forecast

[46] Partly cloudy on Tuesday

[47] The Monday edition of Athens' dailies at a glance

ADESMEFTOS TYPOS: "The new salary scale in the Security Corps following the passing of the relevant law".

APOGEVMATINI: "No tolerance for corruption".

AVRIANI: "Sarkozi's triumph in France directly influences the political developments in Greece as well - Full steam ahead for the Presidency, leaving behind the socialist candidate by five percent".

CHORA: "80 percent of the Fourth CSF (Community Support Framework) will be channeled to the periphery - Karamanlis: Our handlings are consistent and produce results".

ELEFTHERI ORA: "Karamanlis...drowning the periphery with money - 80 percent of the 4th CSF to go to the periphery".

ELEFTHEROS: "George Papandreou (main opposition PASOK leader) described the iniquitous PASOK model, speaking to his party".

ELEFTHEROS TYPOS: "Post-graduate studies under new terms - The provisions of the education ministry's bill".

ELEFTHEROTYPIA: "Hostages of the bonds - Karamanlis attempts to change the agenda, in vain".

ESTIA: "Indication of victory for the Centre-Right - The French voters gave substantial lead to Sarkozi".

ETHNOS: "Karamanlis shielded himself behind the 4th CSF in order to escape the bonds affair".

TA NEA: "The 42 million euros...fib - What they were saying: Disinformation that the Funds will suffer losses from the structured bonds - What they are saying: We will seek, in all ways, the return of every last euro".

VRADYNI: "Royal flush by Sarkozi - French elections: easy lead by right-wing candidate".

Cyprus Affairs

[48] Government: Cyprus fulfills all conditions for Eurozone accession

The Republic of Cyprus fulfills all conditions for accession to the Eurozone on January 1st, 2008, said Monday Acting Government Spokesman Vasilis Palmas.

"I can assure you that Cyprus fulfills all conditions and all economic criteria and thus we are entitled to enter the Eurozone", Palmas stressed.

He was commenting on statements attributed to German Finance Minister Peer Steinbrueck that the June EU Council, which will decide whether Cyprus adopts the Euro from next year, should also examine the "political implications".

The acting government spokesman said that ''it has not been confirmed yet whether Steinbrueck has made such a statement", adding that the government has asked the German Embassy in Nicosia for more information on the matter.

He also said that Cypriot Minister of Finance Michalis Sarris will contact his German counterpart for clarifications.

"If there is such a statement, then, for the first time, political criteria would play a role in one European aspect which until now, has been considered as a solely economic area", he noted.

The Republic of Cyprus entered the EU in May 2004. The government has set as its goal to enter the Eurozone on January 1st, 2008.

Cyprus has been divided since 1974 when Turkish troops invaded and occupied its northern third.

[49] Commission to adopt report on Cyprus' economy based on Maastricht criteria

Head of the European Commission Representation in Cyprus Themis Themistocleous said on Monday that the European Commission will be judging on May 16 the report on Cyprus' accession to the Eurozone, based on the Maastricht criteria.

Invited by CNA to comment on remarks attributed to German Minister of Finance Peer Steinbrueck that Cyprus' accession to the Eurozone might have political repercussions and thus should be discussed on a political level, Themistocleous noted that ''the Commission will adopt the report on Cyprus' economy on May 16, taking into consideration the Maastricht criteria alone, as in all previous cases.''

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