The Hellenic Radio (ERA): News in English, 10-02-01

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

CONTENTS

[01] Greek PM: "We Aim to Free Greece from Profiteering"

"We should turn the sense of injustice we feel into a power for change. We do not have the luxury for petty claims. We cannot afford prolonged roadblocks and strikes," said Greek Prime Minister George Papandreou, who invited the political leaders in bilateral talks. Opposition leader Antonis Samaras called for a joint campaign against corruption and requested immediate measures..

The off-the-agenda debate focused on corruption and took place upon the request of the ND head, who stressed: "Consensus before the crisis is necessary. If you take painful measures, we will offer you our backing, but do something." He then claimed that ND does not want to rule in ruins in the future. He then called on the Prime Minister to abort the German model with regard to the electoral law, to freeze the immigration draft-bill, and to give a second though to the "Kallikratis" plan.

"Our effort is not to establish order in Greece. This is a prerequisite to get rid of custody. Our intention is to free Greece from surveillance and profiteering. This is what we all have to do, although there are specific responsibilities."

George Papandreou

George Papandreou blasted the opposition party for having nourished corruption during its rule: "You managed with your policies to expose Greece to profiteering. Serious investors question our credibility. Our partners have asked for painful sacrifices."

"Greece has become the weakest part of the eurozone. Borrowing terms are getting worse and worse day in day out. It is a national debt to annul all efforts made to push the country even further. The government is determined to do whatever it takes lest the danger should become reality," commented the Prime Minister.

Finally, responding to New Democracy's call for a bipartisan committee against corruption, George Papandreou counter proposed the boosting of the Standing Committee on Transparency and Institutions.

News item: 32749

[02] 21yo Male Arrested for Involvement in Terrorist Group

A 21-year-old male was arrested for his involvement in the "Conspiracy of Fire Cells" terrorist group. His fingerprints had been located on a bag and a brochure at the hideout in Halandri district. The arrest warrant had been pending since 13 January and he was arrested Monday evening outside his house. He will be referred to the magistrate in the coming hours.

Source: ΝΕΤ 105.8 News item: 32748

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