Compact version |
|
Sunday, 22 December 2024 | ||
|
Athens News Agency: News in English, 05-09-23Athens News Agency: News in English Directory - Previous Article - Next ArticleFrom: The Athens News Agency at <http://www.ana.gr/>CONTENTS
[01] Heavy showers cause floods, problems in AtticaHeavy showers over the past 24 hours caused several problems throughout the Attica region on Friday, ranging from floods to traffic problems to interrupted train service.Showers began on Thursday evening and continued into Friday with the Fire Brigade receiving over 100 calls due to floods in various neighbourhoods in the centre of Athens and the northern suburbs. Traffic problems resulted when main roads throughout the city became impassable, while numerous traffic lights stopped operating. The national meteorological service (EMY) has predicted more rainfall on Saturday, with showers expected to taper off in the evening. [02] Deputy FM discusses Turkey's EU negotiations, FYROM name issue with State Dept. officialsDeputy Foreign Minister Yiannis Valynakis discussed Turkey's European Union accession negotiations as well as the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM) name issue during his meetings with State Department officials in Washington on Friday.Valynakis said that Greek-US issues, European and international developments as well as developments in southeast Europe were discussed during his meetings with Daniel Fried, Assistant Secretary of State - European Affairs, and Matthew Bryza, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs. The deputy minister said that both Greece and the US are working together to transform the Balkans into a "European neighbourhood", into a region of cooperation, peace, security and stability. In reference to Turkey, Valynakis said that "if all goes well, and I think it will, Turkey will begin accession negotiations on October 3," adding that Turkey will have to fulfill all criteria and requirements defined by the EU in order to become a full-fledged member state. Finally, Valynakis said that Greece presented its positions regarding the FYROM name issue and that the Greek government considers UN Special Envoy Matthew Nimetz' proposal submitted last spring as the basis for negotiations. "We believe that this matter must be resolved through a mutually-acceptable solution that will help Skopje's European prospects," he added. Athens News Agency: News in English Directory - Previous Article - Next Article |