The Hellenic Radio (ERA): News in English, 06-05-15

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

CONTENTS

[01] Package of Measures from EU to Tehran Europe Calls On Iran

Sources: NET, NET 105.8, ANA

The 25 Foreign Ministers of the EU investigated the European proposal for exiting the crisis caused by Irans uranium enrichment programme. It is a package of measures that Tehran is called on to accept and spans the scientific partnership in the nuclear sector for peaceful purposes, economic partnership, as well as political incentives and guarantees to Tehrans regime. At the same time, the 25 FMs decided that a solution should be found by the UN Security Council, which will be binding for Iran. On Friday, the EU package of measures will be investigated by the negotiators of the five permanent members of the Security Council in London. In a Press conference, EU High Representative for Foreign and Security Policy Javier Solana stated that the European Union has programmed an offer of incentives, so that Iran suspends its sensitive nuclear activities, and will be much more than a "packet of treats" which Tehran rejected last year. "You will see that Europe can help Iran with an important and positive plan, which will proceed even more than the plans presented in August," stated Solana.

Important Diplomatic Initiative

Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis, who represented Greece in the proceedings of the General Affairs Council, stated that we are in the middle of an important diplomatic initiative, the aim of which is for Iran to use nuclear energy for peaceful purposes. In addition, Mrs Bakoyannis stated that the 25 FMs discussed the developments in the Middle East. The European Foreign Ministers appeared to agree on the need to create a special fund for aiding Palestinians, which will operate independently from the Hamas-led Government. The Fund could start operation as of June, under the condition that the World Bank will participate in it. The activation of the International Bank requires the green light by the US, an event which is quite unlikely at the time.

On behalf of the Greek side, Dora Bakoyannis underlined the need of EUs activation for the coverage of humanitarian needs of the Palestinian Authority, voicing the need of a positive response by the Israeli Government. The collapse of state structures of the Palestinian Authority is an exceptionally negative development, noted the Foreign Minister.

In closing, regarding the European Constitution, the 25 Foreign Ministers are not ready to agree on anything but a one-year extension of the so-called recollection period.

However, Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis voiced the hope of the Greek side that in the next informal Council of the FMs in Vienna, the Austrian Presidency will be able to present specific proposals for the further operation of the EU.

General Affairs Council Meeting

The improvement of procedures of the European Defence Organisation, the military capabilities of the EU, its presence in Congo, Sudan and Bosnia-Herzegovina, as well as more effective aid by the EU for facing emergency situations and disasters, were the issues concerning the Foreign and Defence in Brussels. On behalf of the Ministry of National Defence, Greece was represented by Defence Minister Vangelis Meimarakis.

Specifically, regarding the European Defence Organisation, the Ministerial Council agreed that research and technology are the cornerstones for the development of EUs defence capabilities. However, the insufficient funding for the defence sector was stressed. Mr Meimarakis stated that in his intervention to the Council, he stated that Greece is ready to participate in the formation of a body, which will promote and materialise EUs ambitious goals, specifically in research and technology.

Regarding the sector of military capabilities, the Council agreed that solutions have to found for deficiencies presented in the EU in strategic transports. In addition, the importance was stressed for the nautical dimension of the European Policy of Security and Defence. Intervening in the discussion, Mr Meimarakis noted "nautical powers of the EU on a state of alert are the most effective way for immediate reaction."

Relating to the EUs presence during the electoral procedure in Congo after a UN demand, the Council stressed that it has to be reliable, with clear goals and a suitable withdrawal policy. Mr Meimarakis repeated Greeces intentions to the Council for an effective contribution with a C-130 aircraft and a support group in Congo.

Referring to the Althea Operation in Bosnia-Herzegovina, he stated to the Ministerial Council that EUs presence should continue by the end of 2007, so there is a clearer picture in the western Balkans.

In closing, in relation to facing of crises and emergency situations, the EU Ministers agreed that defining military capabilities is necessary, as well as the coordination of their usage by the EU. Intervening in a joint meeting with the FMs, Mr Meimarakis noted that the citizens, when faced with a crisis or a disaster need an effective and speedy distribution of help and that not many are interested in an institutional or procedural character.

"The EU should broaden all possible choices and further develop its capabilities in facing emergency situations," conclude Mr Meimarakis.

Related News:

Focus on Iran

[02] After 26 Years of Tension US and Libya Restored Relations

Sources: ANA, Reuters, BBC

Following 26 years of tension, the US and Libya are restoring diplomatic relations after a decision by the US State Department to remove it from the list of countries supporting terrorism. The decision acknowledged Tripoli on its decision to suspend the production of mass destruction weapons. Meanwhile, Condoleeza Rice announced that the US Embassy will re-operate in Tripoli in the immediate future. The decision was excitedly hailed by the Foreign Ministers of both countries.

Historic Decision

In 1979 the US had described Libya as a country supporting terrorism and ended diplomatic relations in 1980.

In 1986, US President Ronald Reagan ordered an air attack against Libya in retaliation of bomb explosions in Berlin discoth&#232;ques, where two US soldiers lost their lives.

In 2003, Libyas decision to suspend the production of mass destruction weapons and compensate the victims families over the bombing of a Pan Am aircraft in Lockerbie, Scotland, in 1988, assisted the restoration of relations with Washington.

Libyan Foreign Minister Abd al-Rahman Shalgam described the decision as "a new chapter" in the two countries relations.

"This was a result of contacts and negotiations. It is not unilateral. It is a result of mutual interests, agreements and understandings," he added.

In Washington, US Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice in an announcement stated: "I am pleased to announce that the United States is restoring full diplomatic relations with Libya."

"Todays announcements are tangible results that flow from the historic decisions taken by Libyas leadership in 2003 to renounce terrorism and to abandon its weapons of mass destruction programmes," she said.

Translated by Eirene Nisiriou

Read the story on other sources:

BBC: US to renew full ties with Libya

[03] Over the Pakistani Abduction Issue "I Insist on My Statements"

Sources: NET, ANA

Minister of Culture Giorgos Voulgarakis is insisting on statements he made as Public Order Minister over the Pakistani abduction case at Parliament. Answering to a relevant question, the Minister of Culture referred to his statement, noting "I gave a detailed account at Parliament and I insist on my statements." Moreover, he commented on PASOKs position for his removal from the Government, saying "in the previous months the opposition has not made any actions, but is only asking for my resignation." Commenting on articles with new accusations by Pakistanis over abductions and interrogations in Greece, alternate Government spokesperson Evangelos Antonaros spoke of fictional details.

"Nothing has changed since my statements on Friday," added Mr Antonaros, noting that the issue is being investigated by the justice, following an order by the Government.

Actually, in a question over the contacts of US agent Mrs Townsend in Greece, Mr Antonaros referred to the relevant Press releases issued by the Public Order Ministry, in relation to Giorgos Voulgarakis and Mrs Townsends meetings in Greece and the US.

"All the meetings were made in public and nothing has been hidden," said the Government spokesperson.

PASOK Press spokesperson returned to the issue of Mr Voulgarakis and the Government.

Nikos Athanasakis said that as long as Mr Voulgarakis remains in the Government, Mr Karamanlis problem will grow and noted that a minister who continuously lies over such a serious issue cannot be a member of a government anywhere in the world.

Referring to the Government, he stated that no one can hide behind the justice and the supposed completion of an investigation. The issue, he added, is not judicial or legal but political and should be immediately dealt with.

Translated by Eirene Nisiriou

[04] Ongoing Disputes PASOK Infighting

Sources: ΝΕΤ

The recent differentiated stances PASOK members took on controversial issues has prompted talks within PASOK. In his interview with paper Ta Nea, PASOK parliamentarian Mihalis Chrysohoidis described the reviving of personal strategies as self-destructive. Another PASOK PM, Evangelos Venizelos said that Mr Chrysohoidis did not referred to him and added that should some people imply that he must act in a more usual and conventional fashion, he might as well do so.

In his interview with paper Ta Nea, Mihalis Chrysohoidis commented on the infighting triggered off by differentiated stances some PASOK officials took on several matters, including the Naoussa amendment, the social security issue and the Constitutional review.

The PASOK former secretary claimed there has been a reviving of personal strategies, which he termed as self-destructive, for they are indicative of periods of decline.

"Some have been vying to convince us that they care for PASOK more than others," he agued, adding that party conscience is not a monopoly, nor is it defined by petty ideologies that rather shrink it

Answering, Mr Venizelos said he did not think that Mr Chrysohoidis was referring to him, yet he admitted there are personal strategies and spoke of the dilemma every politician comes up against.

At the same time, he claimed that he discusses all issues with the PASOK leader and within the partys Political Council.

Translated by Areti Christou

[05] Contact Lens Solution by Bausch & Lomb Inc. ReNu MoistureLoc Recalled

Sources: NET

As per a decision by the manufacturing company, all packages of ReNu MoistureLoc contact lens solution are being recalled worldwide. The product is available in the Greek market and it was found that it may be increasing the relative risk of Fusarium infection in unusual circumstances. Initially, the company believed the problem was due to a contamination in its facilities in Greenville, North Carolina, US. The contact lens solution was recalled in the American market and some Asian countries, but following it was observed that the problem was presented in other regions as well, which resulted in its pull-out.

Translated by Eirene Nisiriou

[06] By an Announcement of the Prosecution Sanidas' Case Filed Away

Sources: NET, ANA

The preliminary criminal investigation of Athens First Instance Prosecution over articles involving Supreme Court Vice President Giorgos Sanidas in the trespassing of forestland in Porto Germano was filed away. In an announcement, the Supreme Court Prosecution explained that a criminal offence did not emerge and there was no issue of trespassing, as it was privately-owned property. Circles of the Prosecution, which is conducting the investigation on the justices purgation, announced that Mr Sanidas was verbally informed by third-parties to not get involved in the extrajudicial ring investigation.

Translated by Eirene Nisiriou

[07] The Rikomex Trial Adjourned

Sources: ΝΕΤ - ΝΕΤ 105.8

The trial of those charged with the collapse of the Rikomex factory in 1999s earthquake killing 39 people, was adjourned for September 19. The factorys architect and engineer, who were initially found guilty of a misdemeanour, will be at the dock of the Multi-Member Appellate Court. The Prosecutor filed an appeal against the first ruling, so the two are now facing felony charges.

[08] Authorities on Alert Mt Merapi Volcano Erupting

By Anna Kourti

Sources: Reuters, BBC, ANA

The authorities on the isle of Java, in Indonesia, are on alert since Mt Merapi, which has started to throw ashes, gas and solid pieces of lava, is expected to erupt. Already the residents of the mountainsides have fled their homes, while the region is being gradually evacuated. Many residents refused to leave their homes. So far, the number of residents living in the immediate danger zones has not been announced. Last week Vice President of Indonesia Jusuf Kalla had announced that the warning concerned 34,000 residents.

Eighty-Eight Volcanic Explosions

As per the regions vulcanologists, Mt Merapi has started erupting, while from midnight to 06:00 (20:00 on Sunday to 02:00 Monday, Greek time) there were 88 eruptions of volcanic hot clouds.

It is noted, that since 1548 Mt Merapi has started to erupt 68 times. The worst case was in 1930 when 1,300 persons had lost their lives, while the last eruption occurred in 1994 resulting in 60 people to die by the fumes.

Translated by Eirene Nisiriou

Read the story on other sources:

Reuters: Merapi volcano erupts with gas and ash

BBC: Java volcano activity increases

Related News:

Indonesian Volcano Ready to Erupt

[09] Distribution of 34.84% of Shares Denationalisation of GPSB Proceeding

Sources: NET, ANA

Denationalisations in banks are proceeding in a quick pace. The public offer for the admission of the Greek Postal Savings Bank in the Athens Stock Exchange will take place as of 24 to 26 May. 34.84% of shares will be distributed from 140.8 million shares. 30% of shares are expected to be given to institutional and private investors, 1.24% to employees and 3.6% will be used for special circumstances of high purchasing interest. The prices will range from 10 to 13 euros. The Greek Postal Savings Bank has deposits totalling 10 billion euros and 2.5 million active accounts. The granting of loans was increased by 47.5% in 2005.

Translated by Eirene Nisiriou

[10] AEK in the Champions League

By Stathis Petropoulos

AEK did not know what to go after the most in the last match of the season versus Xanthi. They wanted to win of course and secure their qualification to the Champions League preliminaries, however they had to be very cautious faced with a dangerous team like Xanthi. As a result, there was a slight confusion among the players of the home team and the nil tie was the expected outcome. As for the Champions League, although AEK and Panathinaikos have equal points in the rankings, AEK are the ones to qualify thanks to defeating Panathinaikos 3-0 in the first round.

LINEUPS

AEK: Sorrentino, Georgeas, Morras, Alexopoulos, Tziortziopoulos, Katsouranis, Emmerson, Ivic, Soares (90' Chanko), Lakis (72' Sezar), Kapetanos (90+ Sapanis)

XANTHI: Pizanowski, Maghradze, Paviot, Antzas, Torosidis, Fliskas (64' Baroglou), Garpozis (Kazakis), Quintana, Cicinio, Labriakos, Delgado (62' Baikara)

Translated by Sofia Soulioti

[11] Review of EKDDA's Work

Sources: ANA, NET

On Monday, Interior Minister Prokopis Pavlopoulos, Deputy Minister Apostolos Andreoulakos, EKDDA General Secretary Giorgos Voutsinos and V. Andronopoulos reviewed the important work of the National Centre for Public Administration and Self-Government (EKDDA) in 2004-2006. "The centre was under-operating the last 21 years. In two years it acquired an operable organisation, personnel and infrastructure. Currently, the Centre has funds, which increased from 14 million euros in 2004-2005 to 44 million euros in 2006-2007. In addition, the training quality of civil servants improved and nine Regional Educational Institutes were founded, while two more will be created in Thrace and the Aegean within the year," said the Interior Minister. Moreover, the circular signed by Mr Pavlopoulos and sent to ministerial administrations foresees the creation of citizen reception centres in all ministries, aimed at assisting the citizens facing their cases.

Translated by Eirene Nisiriou

[12] For Professional Drivers Seat Belt Use Becomes Mandatory

By Anna Kourti

Sources: ΝΕΤ

The exemption of professional drivers from the seat belt safety law will be history as of September. Following his meeting with a delegation of professional drivers, Transport Minister Michael Liapis announced that according to the revised Driving Code, the seat belt use becomes mandatory for all professional drivers. Furthermore, the seat belt use will also be mandatory for the passengers of regional buses, as well as the front-seat passenger of taxis. The revised Driving Code also provides for twofold tickets for seat belt and helmet violators. In the context of smooth traffic flow inside city limits, driving licenses will be removed from those drivers illegally occupying parking lots specially designed for the disabled. Furthermore, the ticket imposed on drivers using bus lanes increased from 83 euros to 166 euros.

Translated by Areti Christou

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