The Hellenic Radio (ERA): News in English, 05-04-09

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From: The Hellenic Radio (ERA) <www.ert.gr/>

CONTENTS

[01] Confusion and Awkwardness in Skopje Papoulias' Message to FYROM

By Athina Saloustrou

Sources: NET - NET 105.8

The President of the Hellenic Republic, Karolos Papoulias, sent a message to FYROMs leadership, urging them to take advantage of this really good opportunity offered to them regarding the name, in an effort to support peace and security in the Balkans. The President, who is visiting Volos today, was referring to the proposal made by UN mediator Matthew Nimitz. Mr Papoulias, who had signed an interim agreement with Skopje in his capacity as Greek Foreign Minister, described the proposal as a great foundation for negotiations, just like current Foreign Minister Petros Molyviatis had said. At the same time confusion and awkwardness prevailed in Skopje. FYROMs President Branco Crvenkovski did not make any statements for 24 hours, prompting confusion among the countrys Press. In statements he made today, he questioned the existence of a proposal, although Nimitz has already declared that he had sent his proposal to both Athens and Skopje at the same time. Crvenkovski further added that, if a proposal by Mr Nimitz does exist and is the one presented by Greece, then FYROM would reject it.

Changes Needed

Greeces state and political leadership described the UN proposal for the name of the neighbouring country as a step towards commencing negotiations with FYROMs political leadership. However, the Hellenic President stressed that the Nimitz proposal is in need of changes. Following his meetings with the political leaders yesterday, the Greek Foreign Minister pointed out that the proposal did not fully satisfy Greece, while some points needed amendments. He did declare, though, that the name "Republika Makedonija-Skopje" was to be used untranslated. However, diplomatic sources are questioning Skopjes effort to doubt the existence of Mr Nimitzs proposal.

On the other hand, PASOKs President George Papandreou commented that the Government, which worsened the situation, was responsible for handling the matter, while KKEs General Secretary, Aleka Papariga, pointed out, "The term Macedonia will be a term and condition with clear geographical meaning and without nationalistic dimensions." SYNs President Alekos Alavanos was in favour of finding a mutually accepted solution; while he urged the Government to seek the support of the 25 EU Member-States and the EU for a mutually accepted international and not bilateral name. He further added, "A mutually accepted name by both sides would contribute towards reinforcing security in the area, which is facing new civil unrest, while it would provide Greece the opportunity to gather its strengths towards dealing with other foreign policy matters."

Skopje Rejects Proposal for International Name

On the other hand, the President of FYROM, Branco Crvenkovski declared that his countrys Ambassador to the US, Nikola Dimitrov, would be meeting with UN mediator Matthew Nimitz on Monday, at which time it will be officially established whether a proposal for a name does exist, as well as what the actual proposal is. "The Greek public opinion was presented with a proposal for a consensual solution regarding the name and claimed that this proposal originated from Mr Nimitz. I do not rule out the possibility of something like this having taken place. The composite name Republika Makedonija-Skopje constitutes a good foundation for conducting constructive talks with regard to finding a solution for bilateral communication between Macedonia and Greece. As an alternative, the Greek side could use that name for us. Concerning the name used for the international communication with our country, our position is set: the use of our constitutional name. In other words, the proposal presented by the Greek public opinion regarding the name is unacceptable for us."

Confusion among FYROM's Press

The silence of FYROMs government and the absence of an opinion or reaction to the proposal by UN Mediator Matthew Nimitz regarding the countrys name seem to have created confusion among FYROMs Press.

The government-friendly newspaper Utrinski Vesnik voiced doubts as to whether the proposal originated from special mediator Matthew Nimitz. Quoting anonymous UN diplomatic sources, the journalist mentioned that in essence, the proposal belonged to Athens, which engaged in diplomatic games and asked Mr Nimitz to present it as his own, aiming not to prompt the reaction of Greeces public opinion, while at the same time, exert pressure on Skopje. He further added that Mr Nimitz did not make any statements.

On the same matter, newspaper Vreme noted that is was nearly impossible for Mr Molyviatis to have organized meetings with Greeces political leaders in order to present Mr Nimitzs proposal, if this was not definite and confirmed.

"This would have been a great risk for Mr Molyviatis and the governing party in Greece," mentioned Vreme . The journalist also noted that Athens is moving towards settling the name, while Skopje remains idle. He further added, "Just before Mr Molyviatis publicized Mr Nimitzs proposal, Foreign Ministry sources spoke of rumours spread by Greek Media. However, when Mr Molyviatis made the mediators proposal public, FYROMs Foreign Ministry suddenly stopped making statements."

FYROMs Media broadcast the news concerning Mr Nimitzs proposal, referring to relevant comments by Mr Molyviatis in Athens.

Translated by Vicky Ghionis

Related News:

Proposal for Name Set Forth

[02] Jihad Towards Ending Truce Smells Like War in the Middle East

By Athina Saloustrou

As per hospital sources and eyewitnesses, three Palestinian youths were killed today by Israeli fire in Rafah, southern Gaza, close to the borders with Egypt. It is the first bloody incident since last February, when a truce was declared between Israelis and Palestinians. According to an Israeli military source, the attack took place when three men approached a roadblock close to the Israeli borders with southern Gaza, in the Rafah refugee camp. The soldiers fired against them, but the youths ignored the warning shots. However, eyewitnesses are refuting this version, claiming that an Israeli army tank fired against a group of young Palestinians who were playing football in an unauthorized area. As a result, the Palestinian group Islamic Jihad declared that, following the killing of the three Palestinian youths, it was no longer bound by the truce with Israel. Furthermore, the Palestinians are threatening with a third Intifada, if Jewish extremists continued their demonstrations in Jerusalems Temple Mount.

Palestinians Threaten with Third Intifada

"Jerusalems Brigades are now free of any commitment for a truce, following the blood of the three Palestinian brothers, which was shed today by Israeli fire," announced Jihads spokesperson Abu Abdallah. "We are no longer bound by any decision for truce," he concluded.

In the meantime, more than 10,000 Palestinians participated in three different demonstrations today in Ramallah, West Bank, and the Gaza Strip, warning of a third uprising if Jewish extremists proceed with their plans to hold protests on Sunday in East Jerusalems Temple Mount. The Jewish, though, are set on voicing their opposition towards the imminent withdrawal of Israel from the Gaza Strip.

"Thousands of martyrs are prepared to die, in order to protect the Temple Mount and the Al Aqsa Mosque," shouted the protestors, waving green flags, the colour of Islam. Furthermore, the protestors, which included many Hamas members, urged the Arab nations to protect the Mount. Israeli police has tightened security measures in Jerusalem, declaring that it would not allow Jewish demonstrators to enter what is considered Holy Land for both the Muslims and the Jewish.

However, speaking on Israeli radio, the countrys Public Security Minister, Gideon Ezra, feared that Jewish protestors would attempt to provoke, in an effort to stop the planned withdrawal from the Gaza Strip this coming June.

"If the Zionists head towards the Al Aqsa Mosque, they would be planting the seeds of the third uprising," warned Nizar Rayan, a member of the Hamas.

Translated by Vicky Ghionis

[03] Resolution in Peaceful Climate, Says Gul Progress by Both Sides of the Aegean

By Athina Saloustrou

Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul sent another message expressing willingness to resolve the Greek-Turkish problems in a peaceful climate, while he also spoke of taking steps towards the right direction. Furthermore, just days before Greek Foreign Minister Petros Molyviatis official visit to Turkey, Athens welcomed the statements made by the president of the Turkish National Assembly, Bulent Arinc. Yesterday, Mr Arinc announced to the Turkish Press his decision to propose lifting the 1995 decision, whereby any expansion of the Greek territorial waters to 12 nautical miles in the Aegean Sea was to be considered cause of war. "Greece and Turkey are willing to make efforts for the peaceful resolution of the problems between them," declared Turkish FM Abdullah Gul. On the other hand, Petros Molyviatis described the proposal as, "A step towards the right direction for the continuous improvement of Greek-Turkish relations." Finally, George Papandreou expressed the hope that Turkey would eventually lift casus belli.

Positive Reactions by Athens

Answering to the reporters questions concerning territorial waters and casus belli, Mr Gul declared, "Greece and Turkey are countries willing to make efforts for the peaceful resolution of the problems between them."

As per the International Treaty for the Law of the Sea, provided Greece desires to do so, it can make use of its lawful right, ie to expand its territorial waters from 6 nautical miles, which is the case today, to 12. This matter has been a sore point between Greece and Turkey for years.

Referring to the territorial waters, the Turkish FM pointed out, "We have to demonstrate our efficiency, which would bring about a solution, while steps are already being made towards that direction."

Greek FM Petros Molyviatis, who will be visiting Ankara next week, welcomed Bulent Arincs statements, clarifying, "Greece aims to improve the relations with its neighbour, an aim which is also shared by the Turkish Government."

The leader of the Turkish Opposition, Deniz Baykal, also seems to be embracing this positive climate. Although he insists on keeping casus belli by saying, "Turkey has declared that Greece should not attempt something that we believe would be a cause of war. Our stance has prevented Greece from doing anything until today," he did, however, appear in favour of finding a solution through dialogue and spoke of a new equilibrium. "If a new equilibrium is achieved at this stage, this should not take place based on the one-sided statements to the Press by Turkish officials, but on discussion."

Brief History

The first time Ankara described any expansion of Greek territorial waters as "unacceptable" was in 1975, voiced by the then FM, Ihsan Sabri &#199;aglayangil.

In 1982 and following the approval of the International Treaty for the Law of the Sea, Ankara declared that it would consider any expansion as a cause of war. Since then, Ankara has remained fixed on its stance, a fact that was also decided by the Turkish National Security Council.

The whole discussion, which was prompted by the infamous casus belli, focused on the decision made by the Turkish National Assembly on 8 June 1985. It was decided that the then Turkish Government was authorized to implement all the necessary measures, including the deployment of the military, in case Greece expanded its territorial claims.

In statements made yesterday by the president of the Turkish National Assembly, Bulent Arinc, he underlined that it was not a matter of decision, but of ratification. In effect, Mr Arinc attempted to question the validity of the decision, saying that it had not been put to a vote, but was approved by applause.

However, the decision in question was not effectively an authorization for declaring war, since that is a decision that has to be made by the Turkish National Assembly. The decision was mainly a repetition of Turkeys fixed stance regarding cause of war. Anyhow, the authorization related to the former National Assembly towards the former Government, meaning that it is not in force any longer, since, following the elections, both the Government and the National Assembly body have changed.

Therefore, the decision in question and any discussion relating to it being in force do not express Ankaras current stance.

Translated by Vicky Ghionis

Related News:

End of "Casus Belli"

[04] Charles and Camilla: Officially Together after 35 Princely Wedding

By Athina Saloustrou

British Crown Prince Charles got married at noon to his eternal lover, Camilla Parker-Bowles, in an austere ceremony, which lasted just over 20 minutes. After waiting for a whole 35 years since the beginning of their turbulent relationship, the couple was wed in Windsors Guildhall, in a civil ceremony attended by a few friends and family, while Queen Elisabeth was absent. 56-year-old Charles and 57-year-old Camilla arrived at Guildhall at approximately 12:30pm (local time) in a black Rolls Royce Phantom VI, owned by the Queen. The bride was dressed in an oyster silk basket-weave coat with herringbone stitch embroidery and a chiffon dress. Her hat was made of natural straw, overlaid with ivory French lace and trimmed with a graphic fountain of feathers. The groom was dressed in a traditional, black morning suit. Only 28 guests were invited at the ceremony, while the Press was not allowed to enter the Hall. The couple departed from Windsors Guildhall a little after 1pm under the cheers of the gathered crowd, while they then headed for Windsor Castle, for a blessing at St Georges Chapel, conducted by the Archbishop of Canterbury. A reception will follow, with 800 invited guests, which will also be attended by Queen Elisabeth and her husband Prince Phillip.

Security Measures Cost 1.5 Mil Euros

The British Authorities implemented draconian security measures, costing 1.44 mil euros. Over 500 police officers were posted around Windsor Castle. Furthermore, dozens of Scotland Yard agents guarded the interior and snipers were positioned on the roofs of buildings, while officers dressed in civil clothes were among the crowd and specially trained dogs were used to prevent any mishaps. Meanwhile, 60 cameras were mounted at key positions, to record any suspicious activities.

Camilla arrived from Clarence House, Prince Charles home in London, while the Prince arrived in Windsor from his summer home in Highgrove, west England. The newlyweds broke tradition, as they arrived at Windsor Guildhall together.

Translated by Vicky Ghionis

Related News:

Charles and Camilla Are Getting Married

[05] Italian Press For Papal Beatification "Santo Subito"

By Athina Saloustrou

The entirety of the Italian Press today repeated the crowd's request for the immediate beatification of Pope John Paul II during yesterday's funeral ceremony at St Peter's Square. The crowd shouted "Wojtyla Santo", said the Republica in its front page, while Corriere della Serra said "Farewell to the Pope: Santo, Santo". The article featured in the Republica entitled "Santo Subito" reported that "the entire square was asking for Pope John Paul's beatification. It is an appeal about which there is no question." The day following the Pope's funeral started with a Mass in St Peter's Basilica, while processes for the election of a new Pontiff have unofficially started. However, none of the candidates seems to have the lead so far, as per the German Cardinal Karl Leman, president of the German Catholic Bishops. However, the beatification of John Paul II lies in the exclusive jurisdiction of the new Pontiff, stated today Vatican spokesperson Joaquin Navvaro-Valls. In the same interview, which he gave after today's general meeting of 103 Cardinals, Mr Navvaro-Valls revealed that during the meeting it was unanimously decided to break all contacts with the media until the beginning of the Conclave, which will be completed with the election of the new Pope.

Without Definite Favourites

"From what I can see so far, there are no definite candidates and no fixed alliances for that matter," stressed Cardinal Leman in an interview in Allgemeine Zeitung Mainz.

"We should move towards consensus through agreements, contacts and talks," he added. "Cardinals have the time to know each other better before the conclave. We shouldn't forget that the great number of candidates renders this move inevitable," stressed the German Cardinal.

"First of all, we need a reliable, convinced and convincing successor to the Holy See, which will be worthy of Pope John Paul II," stated Leman. "Of course, we do not wish for a copycat. The colour of his skin, his origin and certain other issues which have been brought up, are of minor importance," he added.

Referring to the next Pope, he underlined that he will deal with political issues in China and Africa, as well as with the challenge of corrupted faith in traditional Catholic strongholds, like in Spain, Ireland and Latin America.

Cardinal Leman will participate in the Conclave of the Cardinals, which will convene on April 18 and will typically last for 12 to 13 days. Vatican sources estimate however that the electoral process of a new Pope will be short. Until the day of the conclave's start, the Cardinals will hold daily official meetings. Until the election of a new Pope is completed, two Cardinals will be chosen to inform the members of the Conclave on the current affairs of the Catholic Church.

Translated by Sofia Soulioti

[06] Iakovos in Hospital

By Mary Lou Tzempelikou

The health condition of former archbishop of Northern and Southern America, who is hospitalized, is deemed as critical. According to an announcement issued by the Greek Orthodox Archbishopric of America, 94-year-old Iakovos is on special medication, after undergoing surgery for respiratory problems. The same announcement underlined that "Archbishop Dimitrios, who visited the former archbishop of N and S America in hospital, calls the respectable crew of the Holy Archbishopric of America to warmly pray to God, the doctor of souls and bodies, to restore the health of beloved and honourable Archbishop Iakovos."

Translated by Sofia Soulioti

[07] Kallithea Takes Step Toward Staying

By Vasilis Kalpinos

With a golden goal by Koutsospyros in the 79, Takis Lemonis squad defeated Panionios and took a major step towards staying in division one. The game for the 25th round of the Greek championship was not as exciting, but in the end it was the three points of victory that counted. On the other hand, Egaleo played better, but could not convert its efforts to a goal. The only sore point of the match was the protests by some of Kallitheas fans towards Egaleos coach, Ilie Dumitresku, for substituting Agritis.

Anyone's Game

Neither team scored any goals during the first half. Although Egaleo was making some initiatives, there were not any great opportunities for goals, while the two goalkeepers were mere spectators.

The second half was somewhat better. The sure thing, though, was that whichever team scored a goal would also be taking the three points. Egaleo missed a great opportunity in the 61 by Barkoglou, while Kallithea answered back in the 76 with a strong kick by Petkovic. Finally, the sole goal of the match was scored in the 80, by the home team. Karatzas centered the ball and with a beautiful header sent the ball to the nets, giving Kallithea a valuable victory.

Referee: Finokaliotis Yellow Cards: Tsigas, Aggos, Sidibe, Koutsospyros

KALLITHEA: Bartzokas, Dragicevic, Vokolos, Karatzas, Koulakiotis, Tzorbatzakis (50 Dabrowski), Petkovic, Kyriakos, Savvidis (68 Telkinski), Alexandris, Tsigas (75 Koutsospyros).

EGALEO: Sidibe, Alexopoulos, Psomas, Papoutsis, Edusei, Fotakis, Aggos (86 Friesenbichler), Tsatsos, Barkoglou, Agritis (77 Nikolopoulos), Manousakis (72 Chloros).

Translated by Vicky Ghionis

[08] Kerkyra Gets Clobbered

By Stathis Petropoulos

Surely it is very rare for six goals to be scored in just one half of a football match, but even rarer if they are all amazing! During the game that signaled the commencement of the 25th round in Greeces division one, Iraklis crushed Kerkyra by 5-1, in a match that seemed to be hanging on the balance in the first half, but luckily the teams played better in the second half. During the first 45 minutes there werent many opportunities for either side, while the pace was quite slow. However, Iraklis controlled the match and Kerkyra was playing defensively, which continued in the second half. This time around, though, Iraklis strikers seemed to find the mark. To be more precise, they were inspiring.

Late Start

Just in the 50, Kofidis put Papapostolou in, who almost immediately passed beautifully to Epalle, who had taken Drougas spot, sending the ball to the nets, while Gitkos seemed unable to react. However, the equalizer came shortly, giving Kekryra hopes for a comeback. The scorer was Niniadis, whose free kick in the 54 found its mark. From then onwards, Iraklis charged ahead, seeking a second goal. This came approximately 20 minutes later, but it was a quite spectacular goal by Papapostolou. From that point onwards, Kerkyras resistance dwindled, resulting in another three goals by the team from Thessaloniki. Fortuzi scored from up close, following a kick by Katsiabis, marking the third goal. Then, Kapetanos scored the fourth goal with a simple, strong kick. Finally, the instigator of the massacre, Epalle scored the fifth and final goal, with yet another great long kick.

Referee: Vasiliou Yellow Cards: Fortuzi

IRAKLIS: Abaris, Snaucner, Seghiri, Katsabis, Papazacharias, Ioannou, Poursanidis (70 Keita), Drougas (46 Papapostolou), Epalle, Lagos, Fortuzi (84 Kapetanos K).

KERKYRA: Gitkos, Georgiou, Sfakianakis, Syros (60 Ioannou), Carlos, Gitas, Gebro (81 Antoniou), Boughanem, Petras, Fofonka (45 Niniadis), Edaye.

Translated by Vicky Ghionis

[09] Everyone by his Side National Grief for Great Greek Singer

By Anna Kourti

As of 11.00 this morning the mortal remains of the great Greek singer Grigoris Bithikotsis are exposed for public veneration at the chapel of the Athens Metropolitan Church. His funeral is due on Monday at 15.00 at public expense in the 1st Cemetery of Athens. The "Sir" of Greek Music breathed his last on Thursday afternoon at "Ygeia" hospital, where he was hospitalized since January. According to the medical announcement, the Greek popular singer was suffering from blood poisoning and most of his organs had failed him.

Translated by Sofia Soulioti

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