20, Rojdestvensky bulvard, Moscow, +7916 2154619, videoconferencing ip 77.37.238.

August 2006 [Laboratory K ]

“HARBOR”
Leonid Gav, Archeologist:

“We have started to find

in sea thicknesses one
after another of various
fragments and anchors. F
irst even I have thought
that this cemetery of
the ships near under-
water reeves.” Head
of mobile laboratory
“Kosmopoisk” Leonid
Gav makes comments on
the first impressions of
scientists. “However,
at detailed underwa-
ter survey of a bay the
found stone blocks, bal-
last stones, stones for
sharpening for swords
have been found.
After that, it became
clear that here there
was a small port. We
ancient port artifacts
found possibly ancient
Greek port. These 2 lead wood-stone anchors
anchors, confirmed that
Wednesday 3 rd
the place was a port Same orb(with poluses) was founded in 1997 by russian explorer Yuri Sen-
since ancient times. It kevich and Thor Heyerdahl during Ra expedition.
is very convenient for
parking of the ships.
Flooded further, today
it is in three hundred
metres from a natural
bay and a beach. It lays
literally near by beach
of local residents.
Certainly, the most of
them demands for more
detailed study.

136 137
May 2006
Serbia/Montenegro is recovering rapidly.
Greece is highly appreciated in the Arab countries and there is a wish for closer liaisons with
Greece. Taking into account the difficulties of many countries to penetrate the region, Greek
businesses have the potential of becoming peripheral channels through which western products and
services can reach these markets.
Source: Hellenic Center for Investment e-News
Thursday 4 th
South East Europe: A Great Leap Forward
“Impressive progress was made within the South East European Cooperation Process (SEECP) framework
while the ongoing summit constitutes a qualitative and quantitative leap,” Foreign Minister Dora
Bakoyannis told a press conference after member-states’ foreign ministers met in Thessaloniki on
Wednesday.
Greece’s Chairmanship-in-Office of the SEECP was characterized as very positive, and in passing
the chairmanship to Croatia, Bakoyannis said that during its six-month presidency Greece moved along
two axes: the strengthening of regional cooperation as well as the European prospect of the SEECP
countries. A decision on the signing of a free trade agreement concerning the SEECP non-EU members
was reached to replace a complex network of 31 bilateral free trade agreements. The foreign minis-
ters also concluded that implementation of the Thessaloniki agenda for the Western Balkans, should
become more productive.
Bakoyannis stressed that the institutional upgrading of the SEECP is necessary and underlined that
the European Union should offer this opportunity to the SEECP, given the imminent changes in the
Stability Pact for Southeastern Europe. The establishment of a SEECP Secretariat is placed within
this framework. According to the Declaration signed by the foreign ministers, a formal liaison is to
be established between the SEECP and the EU.
On the Kosovo issue, Bakoyannis stressed that the desirable solution should be one that will promote
regional stability and security and that efforts will continue so that the SEECP views will be taken
into consideration by the international community when decision time arrives. The SEECP heads of
state and governments summit is due to convene today.
What is European Corridor X?
Transport and Communications Minister Michalis Liapis and his Former Yugoslav Republic of
Macedonia (FYROM) counterpart Xhemali Mehazi met Wednesday ahead of the meeting of the SEECP trans-
port ministers. Liapis and Mehazi discussed the construction of the European Corridor X’s road and
rail network and particularly those segments that will be located in FYROM and to which Greece will
contribute. Liapis and Mehazi will sign a protocol facilitating cross-border passage on the Corridor
X in June.
Info: Greece’s Transport Policy in South East Europe
Gas Concession in Egypt
Greece’s biggest oil refiner, Hellenic Petroleum (HELPE), has won a concession for oil exploration
and
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May 2006
production in Egypt’s West Obayed desert area, totaling 1,840 square kilometers, the company said in a
statement. HELPE had submitted bids for two of the 13 areas in the round of concessions opened for bid-
ding by the Egyptian Petroleum Corporation last year. The company’s contractual obligations for the
first three years of the exploration period include the conducting of seismic tests and three drills.
The first is expected in June 2007.
Development Minister Dimitris Sioufas and the chairmen of HELPE, Timos Christodoulou, and of Public
Gas Corporation, Asimakis Papageorgiou, have also been discussing energy issues with officials in Saudi
Arabia, Qatar and Bahrain while accompanying President of the Republic Karolos Papoulias on his visit
to these countries.
Adventure Sports Suit in Greece
Greece is seeking a place among nations hosting adventure and extreme sports competitions. The mountain
bike race Thasos Cup on the island of Thasos with, in which athletes rode 53 exhausting kilometers to
the peak of 1,204-meter-high Mount Ypsari. On May 6 and 7, the World Mountain Bike Marathon Cup is
to be held in the foothills of Mt Vermio, in northern Greece under the auspices of the International
Cycling Federation.
The number of competitors in the third Olympus Marathon, to begin on June 25, is expected to be double
that of last year. It is one of the most difficult races of its kind, over 43km, of which 36 are on nar-
row, rugged paths at heights of 2,780 meters. Mountain marathons on the island of Alonnissos and in
Nemea ancient site are to follow.
Eurovision 2006
Over 2000 journalists will cover the 2006 Eurovision Song Contest in Athens (18-20 May). The
Hellenic Broadcasting Corporation (ERT) reports that a record number of media applications
have been approved this year.
Greece’s representative Anna Vissi is currently touring Europe to promote her song “Every-
thing”. She continues to score well in fan polls and many bookmakers seem to offer ever-
shorter odds on Greece winning for a second consecutive year.
Friday 5 th
South East Europe: A Bird’s view by the Greek Premier
The heads of state and government of the South East European Cooperation Process (SEECP) mem-
ber countries commenced their summit meeting Thursday morning in Thessaloniki, with an opening
address by Prime Minister Kostas Karamanlis, who outlined the progress and significant successes
achieved during Greece’s year-long chairmanship of the group, which was coming to a close.
Greece, he said, continued to fully back the European prospect of the region’s countries, and
was working consistently in that direction. However, he noted that “European principles and val-
ues must be respected, and all the criteria and prerequisites that have been put forward by the
EU must be fully implemented.” Karamanlis further said that a uniform free trade agreement among
the SEECP countries would give new impetus to trade, referring to a proposal adopted Wednesday at
the SEECP foreign ministers’ assembly in Thessaloniki.
May 2006
Regarding Kosovo, Karamanlis stressed that “the negotiations process for the future status of Kosovo
must contribute to the stability and security in South East Europe”.
On the sidelines of the summit, Karamanlis and his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan reviewed
Greek-Turkish relations yesterday, and expressed the desire for further improvement of relations. The po-
litical leaderships of the two countries have been encouraging entrepreneurship and the strengthening of
trade and business relations, in the framework of economic diplomacy.
With respect to Turkey’s EU prospect, which Greece backs, Karamanlis said that EU membership was depen-
dent on the specific commitments set out by the EU. Ankara needs to proceed in fulfilling the commitments
it has undertaken towards the EU, such as matters concerning religious freedoms.
Connecting People by Rail
Transport ministers from SEECP member-states signed a rail agreement in Thessaloniki yesterday, laying
out a framework that will allow the creation of an upgraded regional network. The agreement foresees the
development of a total of 16 rail axes in the Balkans. The most recent regional rail agreements in the
region inaugurated a Thessaloniki-Istanbul and Thessaloniki-Sofia route.
Rise in Agricultural Exports
According to provisional data from the National Statistics Service, exports of agricultural products in
January-February 2006 totaled 562.2 million euros, up 23% from the same period of 2005. Citing the
Hellenic Foreign Trade Board, the Agriculture and Foods Ministry reports that the product bringing the
highest revenue out of 150 products was olive oil, up 107.1%, followed by cotton, which rose by 74.6%
against the first two months of 2005.
Tourism Panorama 2006 Trade Fair
“Tourism Panorama 2006”, an exhibit which highlights regions and presents special kinds of tourism,
opened its gates in Anthoussa, Athens on Thursday. Launching the exhibition, Tourism Minister Fani Palli-
Petralia noted that the promotion of tourism investment, coupled with a dynamic publicity campaign, has
ensured that growth in internal tourism will be increasingly strong. This year, the fair will focus on
the healing-wellness tourism sector, in cooperation with the Association of Greek Municipalities and Com-
munities with Hot Water Springs and with related businesses.
Info: Travelling Around Greece
European Social Forum in Athens
The sessions of the 4th European Social Forum got under way in Athens on Thursday and will conclude on
Sunday with the movement’s assembly. According to the organizers, approximately 10,000 people from Euro-
pean countries have come to take part in the events. The forum is an annual conference held by members
of the movement against “neoliberal globalization” that allows social organizations, NGOs, and peace
groups to come together and discuss global issues.
Info: Daily program of activities
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May 2006
Happening In Greece
Two internationally distinguished leaders in management, Dr. Tom Peters and Professor Richard
Boyatzis, will speak at the Greek Leadership Congress, organized by the Association of Chief
Executive Officers on Tuesday, May 9 2006. The Greek Leadership Congress has been established
as the most important event on management in Greece. It is addressed to businessmen and com-
pany executives.
Monday 8 th
Marine Tourism Plan
Tourism Minister Fani Palli-Petralia on Sunday announced a new programme to boost marine tourism.
Under the plan, a map will be drawn up linking areas of historical and cultural value that will
be provided with yachting access, the minister told a meeting of the National Tourism Council held
on the island of Poros. She noted that priority would be given to 16 sites classified by UNESCO as
world heritage, including Mycenae and the old city of Rhodes.
In addition, a specialized publicity campaign for marine tourism would be slotted into the minis-
try’s overall drive to promote Greece abroad, the minister added. According to ministry data,
Greece holds a 5% share of the cruise market in Europe, which the government hopes to increase.
Greece - Egypt: Gas and Oil
Greece and Egypt on Sunday sealed a cooperation agreement in the natural gas and oil sectors that
places emphasis on research and exploration. “This is a historic agreement. The two countries,
which are laying the foundations for a new era and opening new avenues in their energy ties, have
high expectations of it,” visiting Development Minister Dimitris Sioufas said in Cairo.
Under the terms of the two-year pact, a joint committee will be set up to assess the viability of
selling and transporting Egyptian natural gas to Greece by means of a pipeline, and from there,
to other European countries. Greece is being transformed into a natural gas transportation chan-
nel from output countries in the wider region to major European consumption centres.
European Social Forum’s Anti-war Pledge
The 4 European Social Forum that took place in Athens renewed its pledge on Sunday to mobilize
th
for a complete withdrawal of troops from Iraq and Afghanistan and avert a new war in Iran. At the
end of its four-day meeting, the alter-globalization Forum repeated its opposition to the occupa-
tion of the Palestinian territories and its backing for nuclear disarmament, also calling for
the elimination of military bases in Europe. The Forum announced a week of action from 23 to 30
September 2006 and appealed for a international day of action on October 7, 2006 in Europe and
Africa.
A Gold Medal for Greece
Vlasios Maras on Sunday won the gold medal for horizontal bar in the men’s European gymnastics
championships held in Volos. Maras’ routine gained the top mark of 15.725. Taking the silver was
Russian Sergei Khorokhordan and the bronze, Christoph Schaerrer of Switzerland.
May 2006
7th International Venture Capital Forum
The “7th International Venture Capital Forum” is a two-day event that will be held in Athens,
on June 28 and 29 for entrepreneurs, researchers and technology-based firms in Southeast Europe,
particularly from Bulgaria, Cyprus, FYROM, Greece, Israel, Romania, Serbia-Montenegro and Turkey.
The event also provides a forum for institutional and other investment professionals to meet with
policy makers, entrepreneurs and academics for an open exchange of views and ideas. This forum is
now the largest international private equity forum in Southeast Europe.
Summer Courses on Crete
DIAS International Academic Studies is a non-profit organization dedicated to offering students from
all over the world the opportunity to attend accredited summer courses at the University of Crete in
Rethymno, or the Technical University of Crete in Chania. Students are given the opportunity study
modern Greek culture, as well as the influence of Hellenism on other histories and cultures.a
Must See In Greece
Not surprisingly, the island of Hydra in the Saronic Gulf has gained the title of the artists’
colony.
The gracious stone, white and pastel mansions of Hydra town are stacked up the rocky hillsides
that surround the fine natural, steep-sided port.
The first foreigners to be seduced by its beauty were the film makers who began arriving in the
1950’s, using the island as a film location. The artists and writers moved in next, followed by
the celebrities, and nowadays it seems the whole world is welcomed ashore. The absence of motor-
ized transport, its unique architectural beauty, taken together with its proximity to Athens and
its important history have gradually raised the island to the level of an international tourist
Tuesday 9 th
Europe Day: A Silver Jubiler for Greece
Ahead of Europe Day celebrated today, Prime Minister Kostas Karamanlis said on Monday that through
systematic efforts in recent years, Greece paved the way for other countries in South East Europe
aspiring to become members of the European Union: “25 years since it joined the European family,
Greece possesses the experience, plays a part and has a say in European developments,” Karamanlis
said, adding that the European Union represents today roughly 450 million citizens and a unique mo-
saic of peoples, which constitutes its strength. “This strength gives Europe a greater voice on the
international stage,” he stressed. The premier concluded that the objective is to focus efforts on
bringing Europe closer to citizens, and work together with them in building a Europe they envision.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs: FAQ on the EU
Fiscal Deficit is Falling Down
In its spring forecast on Greece’s economic prospects, the European Commission said on Monday that structural measures will be needed to maintain a fiscal deficit below 3
% of the country’s GDP, while
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May 2006
economic growth will reach 3.5% this year. Minister of Economy and Finance Giorgos Alogoskoufis high-
lighted the progress achieved in the economy during the previous years, noting that the moderate fiscal
policy will continue, as weight will be given to restricting expenses by the public sector. He stressed
that there will be continuing efforts for preventing tax evasion, adding that the government’s goal
was to bring its fiscal deficit to 2.6% this year. The minister also announced a government program for
the unemployed in areas affected by high unemployment rates.
Ministry of Economy and Finance: Fact Sheet on the Prospects of the Greek Economy
Iranian Visit to Athens
Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis is meeting today with Secretary General of Iran’s Supreme National
Security Council, Ali Larijani, at the foreign ministry in Athens. The meeting will come in the wake
of a surprise development on Monday, as Tehran announced that Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad had
conveyed a letter to US President George Bush proposing “new solutions for getting out of internation-
al problems and the current fragile situation of the world.”
EasyCruise to Build Vessels in Greece
EasyCruise and Neorion Holdings S.A. on Monday announced the signing of a letter of intent for the
building of four cruise vessels at Neorion Holdings’ two shipyards in Elefsis and Syros. EasyCruise
said the ships, with a capacity of 500 passengers each, would be used for cruises to Greek islands.
After a meeting with Stelios Hadjioannou, chairman of easyGroup, Economy and Finance Minister George
Alogoskoufis told reporters that the economic environment in Greece is attractive for large invest-
ment plans. The specific investment will strengthen tourism and the country’s shipyards industry with
a positive impact on the economy. According to the plan, easyCruise’s vessels will operate weekend and
four-day cruises from the Faliro marina to the Cyclades islands.
Greece Partner Country in Bulgarian Fair
Greece is the partner country in Plovdiv’s 26th International Fair of Consumer Goods and Technologies,
Bulgaria. Taking part are 60 Greek companies under the aegis of the Thessaloniki International Trade
Fair, and chambers of commerce and trade groups from northern Greece. Greece is Bulgaria’s second-
largest foreign investor.
Turkey and the Greek European Experience
The Hellenic Centre for European Studies in cooperation with the Institute of European Integration
and Policy, University of Athens, in the framework of European Commission’s “Plan D” for Democracy,
Dialogue and Debate, is organizing a conference on: “Decoding Modern Turkey and the Greek European Ex-
perience.” It includes lectures on the “Dynamics of the EU Accession Process”, the “Kantianization
of Turkish foreign policy,” and the “Europeanisation of Greek - Turkish Relations.”
May 2006
Must See In Greece
The Sporades islands complex stretches out into the Aegean, east of the Pelion peninsula. On the
serene Sporades, life still continues along its old rhythms. Tourism has brought prosperity to
these islands without affecting much of their traditional lifestyle, especially on the island of
Alonissos (www.alonissos.gr).
The National Marine Park of Alonissos - unique in Greece - has been created for the protection of
the Mediterranean “monk” seal and protects several other rare species of sea life.
Wednesday 10 th
Tourism Investment a Top Priority
The government has set priority on attracting tourism investment to Greece and boosting business
activity in the sector, Tourism Minister Fani Palli-Petralia said on Tuesday. “Already we have
‘unblocked’ investment efforts that are linked to the development law and the (EU) Third Community
Support Framework. Concerning the investment law, five-start hotels will be financed throughout
Greece, except Athens and Thessaloniki,” she noted. The use of funding from the Fourth Community
Support Framework includes plans for the creation of a reception center for investment proposals and
business plans at the tourism ministry.
The government has forged a long-term policy to tone up demand in tourism products, strengthen sup-
ply, and improve services. Legislative bills on spa tourism and agro-tourism are in their final phase
and a call centre is being created to answer visitors’ queries in several languages.
The Iranian Nuclear Issue
Following a meeting with Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis, Iranian nuclear negotiator Ali Lari-
jani reiterated in Athens yesterday that his country does not seek to develop nuclear weapons or
include such weaponry in its defence dogma. Bakoyannis stressed that Greece - which is currently a
non-permanent member of the United Nations’ Security Council (UNSC) - backs both the International
Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the Security Council’s processes to defuse the ongoing crisis. She
emphasized the government’s “sincere expression of its positions” revolving around the need for
nuclear non-proliferation. She also said Athens believes the UNSC and IAEA have a “crucial role”
to play in the matter, while underlining that the Greek government is aligned with the positions of
its partners.
International Distinction for Hellas Sat
Managing Director of Hellas Sat, Christodoulos Protopapas, has been elected as vice president of the
European Satellite Operators Association (ESOA). According to the company, the election constitutes
“confirmation of the strengthened position” held by Greece in European space technology. The ESOA
plays an important role in shaping European space policy and represents the interests of satellite
organizations in decisions on regulations, political and commercial issues in the space technology
sector.
The Peloponesse University in Kalamata in cooperation with the American, Canadian and Australian
144 145
May 2006
Federations and the World Confederation of Messinians Abroad have organized Greek language summer les-
sons for students (aged 14 to 23) and teachers.
Thursday 11 th
Competitiveness of Economy Rises
Greece’s standing in the world competitiveness table rebounded last year for the first time since
2001, the International Institute for Management Development says in its World Competitiveness
Yearbook 2006. Greece climbed to 42nd from 50th place in 2005 among 61 states and regions. The
country recorded improvements in the government efficiency index (climbing from 52 to 46), business
efficiency (to 47 from 49) and infrastructure (to 33 from 37), but the economic performance index
remained unchanged, ranking 49 .th
Development Minister Dimitris Sioufas said that Greece managed to improve its position in the
world competitiveness ranking, reversing a five-year decline. He added that this year’s report
was the first to solely present figures from the current government’s tenure and Greece surpassed
countries such as Portugal, Turkey, South Africa and Jordan, while it recorded the third biggest
annual improvement after China and India.
Tourism, exports and portfolio investments by foreign funds were the country’s main advantages,
the IMD said in its report. Greece ranked eighth among 61 countries in tourist activity as a per-
centage of GDP, and ninth in export of services, while also ranked 15th in foreign investments’
reserves in equities.
FM Met with Iran’s Nuclear Negotiator
Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis met with Iranian nuclear negotiator Ali Larijani on Tuesday, who
reiterated that his country does not seek to develop nuclear weapons or include such weaponry in
its defence dogma. Bakoyannis stressed that Greece, a non-permanent member of the UN Security
Council - backs both the International Atomic Energy Agency and the Security Council’s processes
to defuse the ongoing crisis.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Dora Bakoyannis Statements
Donation to the UN World Food Program
Deputy Foreign Minister Evripides Stylianidis signed a memorandum of cooperation on Thursday with
the UN’s World Food Program, and announced an additional 1.1-million euro donation, thus in-
creasing Greece’s contribution to international aid efforts, which total 1.7 million euros.
Greece to host OECD conference on SMEs
Development Minister Dimitris Sioufas and Economy and Finance Minister George Alogoskoufis are
key organizers in a program promoted by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Develop-
ment (OECD), in cooperation with New Zealand. The conference will focus on approving actions and
recommendations to abolish hurdles facing small and medium-sized enterprises in efforts to expand
activities in international markets. A total of 500 representatives from around 80 countries are
expected to participate in the conference.
May 2006 May 2006
“Thrace 2006” Exhibition in Komotini Council of Europe Awards Olive Initiative
The 15 “Thrace 2006” Exhibition will open in Komotini, northeast Greece, on May 25-28 with the
th
The “Routes of the Olive Tree” cultural itinerary will be awarded the “Major Cultural Route
participation of over 100 exhibitors. It is organized by the Thessaloniki International Trade Fair of the Council of Europe” title on May 13, 2006, by Council of Europe General Secretary Maud
with the support of the Eastern Macedonia-Thrace Region International Exhibition Center. The goals de Boer-Buquicchio. On the occasion of the award ceremony, an International Forum on the Euro-
are to attract dynamic enterprises and foreign exhibitors (mainly from Bulgaria and Turkey). pean Cultural Routes will be held at the European Cultural Centre at Delphi. The events are under
the auspices of the Culture Ministry within the framework of the “Olive Year 2006.” An inter-
nationally recognized initiative carried out in cooperation with other Mediterranean and European
Happening In Greece countries, the “Routes of the Olive Tree” was declared in 2003 2nd World Cultural Itinerary by
UNESCO.
The Ecocinema 2006 film festival opens in Athens today and continues until May 17; screenings
take place at Apollon filmcenter. The films cover a wide range of vital issues facing the world Alecos Fassianos Exhibit in Beijing
today - man and the environment, globalization, societies in crisis, and war – and the creative
One of Greece’s most acclaimed contemporary painters, Alecos Fassianos, is exhibiting his work in
ways that people have found to deal with them.
Beijing. The display, entitled “Vivid Myths,” features 50 works in mixed media - paper, card-
http://www.ecocinema.gr/ecocinema1en.htm boards, oil and bronze - along with a 2004 commemorative edition of stamps, as well as paint-
ings and installations the artist designed on the occasion of the 2004 Athens Olympic Games. The
exhibit opens at the prestigious Jin Tai Art Museum on May 11, and runs through May 21, 2006.
Friday 12 th

Greek Sale at Sotheby’s

Premier in Vienna for EU-LAC Summit Works by notable Greek artists will be on sale in two auctions planned by Sotheby’s in London,
Prime Minister Kostas Karamanlis arrived on Thursday afternoon in Vienna, where he is attending the on May 22 and on May 24. The sale will feature the “Naughty Grandchild” by Nikiforos Lytras and
4th EU - Latin America /Caribbean (LAC) summit organized by the Austrian EU presidency. five works by the creator of Greece’s finest seascapes, Konstantinos Volanakis. Greek art in the
Participants include the heads of state and government of 60 countries in total. 20th century is represented with Michalis Economou and works by Nicos Hadjikiriakos-Ghikas, and
The issues to be discussed include democracy and human rights, multilateral cooperation for peace,
stability and respect for international law, terrorism, drugs and organized crime, the environment
and energy. On the sidelines of the summit, Karamanlis is meeting with his Turkish counterpart Re- Eurovision 2006 Counting Down
cep Tayyip Erdogan, and Cyprus President Tassos Papadopoulos.
Eight days before the final Eurovision 2006 Song Contest, rehearsals are underway.
Proposals for Constitutional Revision A Press Center located in the southern part of the Athens Olympic Indoor Hall, the largest
indoor venue in use at the 2004 Athens Olympics, is already in operation to assist all jour-
Substantial changes that focused on seven main areas, including the sanctioning of private universi-
nalists covering the event. The staff will keep accredited journalists and fans updated by
ties and the easing of an absolute ban on members of parliament engaging in professional or business
providing news and information.
activity while in office, were included in a set of proposals outlined yesterday by Prime Minister
Kostas Karamanlis for revising the Constitution. The changes placed emphasis on modernizing educa-
tion, independent justice, environmental protection, protection of property (including intellectual
property), strong local government, and laws that guaranteed transparency. Several of the proposed Monday 15 th

changes also concern Parliament and party finances.

Karamanlis Meet Erdogan
GDP Up by 4% in First Quarter of 2006
Prime Minister Kostas Karamanlis met with his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Friday
The country’s GDP increased by 4% in the first quarter of 2006, compared to the corresponding quar-
in Vienna, on the sidelines of the summit meeting of the EU, Latin American and Carribean coun-
ter in 2005, and contributed to an increase in the final demand of the economy by 3.9%, according to
tries, and discussed mainly economic and business issues, particularly in view of the commence-
the National Statistical Service (NSS). Moreover, the economy’s growth rate increased by 2.7% in
ment of the tourism season. Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis and Turkish minister of State Ali
the first half of 2006, compared to the fourth quarter of 2005. The NSS reported that investments
Babacan were also present. The discussion was held within the framework of the two PMs’ policy
also increased by 5.3% and contributed to an increase in the economy’s final demand by 1.1%.
of frequent bilateral contacts. Karamanlis said that the main focus of his talks with Erdogan on
Friday had been economic, particularly on tourism and cooperation in the tourism sector. Discus-
sions also encompassed Greek-Turkish cooperation in the energy sector.

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May 2006
Greece to Chair OECD Meeting
This year’s Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Ministerial Council
Meeting will be held at the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Paris on May 23 and 24 under the
chairmanship of Greece, with the main theme of “Delivering Prosperity”. The Meeting will bring to-
gether ministers of economy, finance and trade to discuss ways to increase growth and employment and
achieve a successful conclusion to the Doha trade talks. Selected emerging and developing economies
have been invited to send representatives to some sessions of the meeting.
Journalists are invited to media briefing in advance of the annual Ministerial Council Meeting, given
by
Economy and Finance Minister George Alogoskoufis and OECD Secretary-General Donald Johnston today at
OECD headquarters.
Greece@OECD: www.oecd.org/greece
OECD Ministerial Council Meeting: www.oecd.org/mcm2006/
New Momentum for Cyprus Issue
Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis was quoted on Sunday in an interview with the “Ethnos” news-
paper as stressing that “history does not forgive missed opportunities”, although she noted that
there was “new momentum on the Cyprus problem” following Cyprus President Tassos Papadopoulos’
meeting in Paris with UN Secretary General Kofi Annan in late February. Bakoyannis said progress was
already being made in the direction of setting up “technical committees” that will discuss certain
issues of common interest.
Athens Music Forum 2006
A conference dedicated to the music industry in Greece is taking place for the 2nd year in Athens.
The “Athens Music Forum” is a meeting place for representatives from all professional areas di-
rectly or indirectly involved with in the music industry, where they obtain information and dis-
cuss topics that affect the particular sector. The conference is taking place at the Dais Center in
Maroussi, northern Athens, from May 15 to 16, 2006.
Art Project to Support New Toys Museum
Fifty Greek artists willingly responded to an invitation issued by the “Lacoste Project 12.12“
exhibition curator Iris Kritikou and created fifty unique works of art, inspired by the renowned
Lacoste polo shirt with the little green crocodile. During the exhibition, all of the revenues
will be donated for the creation and support of the new Benaki Museum Annexe, the Museum of Child-
hood, Toys and Games.
Santorini Vineyards Trace Back to 1700 BC
For centuries, the Aegean island of Santorini has been producing renowned wines. Christos Doumas,
Emeritus Professor of Archaeology at the University of Athens and head of the excavations at the
Akrotiri archaeological site, says that the Cycladic island’s famous vineyards go back at least
to 1700 BC.
“The excavation at Akrotiri on Thera (modern-day Santorini) has given us more information about vi-
ticulture in the Cyclades in the Bronze Age. Thanks to modern methods and techniques now used in ar-
chaeology, and drawing information even from the humblest finds, we have concluded that Akrotiri had
148 149
May 2006
Greece In South East Europe
The South East European Cooperation Process (SEECP) Summit meeting has taken place in Thes-
saloniki on May 3 and 4 under Greece’s Chairmanship-in-Office. SEECP constitutes the only
indigenous cooperation forum that stems from the countries of South East Europe.
Now available online:
SEECP Thessaloniki Declaration (May, 4 2006)
th
Action Plan on the Institutional enhancement of the SEECP
Tuesday 16 th
Premier meets with Pakistani Counterpart
Prime Minister Kostas Karamanlis met on Monday with visiting Pakistani premier Shaukat Aziz, while
the tourism ministers of the two countries signed a cooperation agreement.
Karamanlis called Aziz a “good friend of Greece”, noting that the Pakistani prime minister had
lived in Greece for many years. He told reporters after the meeting that bilateral relations
were on an “upward course,” adding that his talks with Aziz covered a wide range of topics, in-
cluding regional issues, as well as the challenges faced by the international community, such as
terrorism. Both leaders expressed their interest in further developing bilateral relations in the
sectors of commerce and investments.
Karamanlis also noted that the Greece-Pakistan Joint Ministerial Committee, which coordinates such
efforts, would meet soon, and added that there was also cooperation in the sector of culture, cit-
ing more specifically the program for the Kalash ethnic group, whose roots trace back to Alexander
the Great. Also discussed were developments in the European Union, Turkey’s EU prospects, Balkan
issues,
Cyprus, the Middle East, Iraq and Afghanistan.
“Battle of Crete” Commemorated
Events commemorating the 65 anniversary of the Battle of Crete began in Sfakia, on the island of
th
Crete, and will culminate on Sunday, May 21 with the reenactment of the battle at the historic
Maleme airfield.
Prime Minister Kostas Karamanlis, Australian Prime Minister John Howard, Prime Minister of New
Zealand Helen Clark, and British MP for Islwyn and former UK defense secretary Don Touhig sent
messages to mark the anniversary and referred to the role and significance of the Cretan and allied
resistance.
The Battle of Crete began on May 20, 1941 when Nazi forces launched an unprecedented airborne in-
vasion of Crete, code-named “Merkur.” The operation was successful in that it wrested control of
the island from Allied forces, although the victory was so costly due to the stiff resistance by
ANZAC troops and local Cretans that the Wehrmacht never again attempted a major airborne opera-
tion.
A Distinct Shipping Chair
Spyros Polemis has been elected Chairman of the International Chamber of Shipping / International
May 2006
Efthimios Mitropoulos is serving as Secretary-General of the UN’s International Maritime
Organization.
Archaeological Research in Egypt
“1998-2005: 13 archaeological researches in Alexandria.” is the title of a lecture today at Athens’
Center for the Acropolis Studies by the head of the Hellenic Institute of Ancient and Mediaeval
Alexandrian Studies, Harry Tzalas. A second lecture will be given by the renowned archaeologist, Jean-
Yves Empereu, with the theme: “Underwater and land research of the French mission in Alexandria”,
The event takes place on the occasion of the 29th Book Fair, which is focusing this year on the theme
“Greece-Egypt: Crossroads of Cultures.”
Underwater Archaeology in Greece: www.underwaterarchaeology.gr
Anglo-Hellenic Review: New Issue
The 33rd edition of the biannual Anglo-Hellenic Review, out in spring 2006, covers a variety of topics.
In 1990, the Anglo Hellenic League began the publication of the Review, with the purpose to inform all
those who are interested in Greek affairs both past and present. Its contributors, British and Greek, are
experts in their respective disciplines.
eKathimerini: “Greek history through the ages with AHR”
Happening In Greece
The International Writing Program at the University of Iowa is holding “The New Symposium,”
which will convene writers, artists, and thinkers from around the world, to focus on “The Com-
mons - what we hold in common.” The group will gather from May 17 to 23 on the island of
Paros, and is co-sponsored by the Fulbright Foundation in Greece, the European Center for the
Translation of Literature and the Human Sciences and the Mayor of Paros. The program is direct-
ed by Christopher Merrill, whose books have been translated into sixteen languages.
Wednesday17 th
Improving Economic Climate
“There is tangible evidence that the climate is improving. Greece is winning its daily battles,
and has achieved major victories,” Prime Minister Kostas Karamanlis told a general meeting of the
Federation of Greek Industries.
“Over the past two years, basic innovations have been advanced, bold reforms, and substantive
changes that guarantee safe but brisk growth in a sound fiscal environment.” Changes include a new
development law, strong confidence in the capital market, and an objective and transparent framework
for public works, Karamanlis explained. Competitiveness had improved according to a recent report
by the International
Institute for Management Development, the absorption rate of European Community funds had risen,
exports had surged, unemployment had declined, and tourism had increased, the prime minister said.
Among priorities for economic policy were a national zoning plan, privatization focusing on banks,
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May 2006
Resources’ and revitalization of the wider public sector.
Ministry of Economy and Finance: May 2006 - Fact Sheet on the Prospects of the Greek Economy
(PDF)
ekathimerini daily: “Energy in for recharge”
Greece-China: Business Partners
A business forum for Greece and China as economic and trade partners will be held in Athens on May
23. The meeting is arranged by the Hellenic Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industries and the
Greece-China Business Council. The meeting coincides with a visit to Athens by the President of
China’s parliament, Wu Bangguo and the country’s Deputy Minister of Trade, Yu Guangzhou.
Congress on Artificial Intelligence, Crete
The 4th Hellenic Congress on Artificial Intelligence takes place at the Atlantis Hotel in the
city of Heraklion, Crete between May 18 and 20. The congress is organized by the Hellenic Ar-
tificial Intelligence Society in collaboration with the Institute of Computer Science at FORTH
(Foundation for Research & Technology - Hellas) and the Department of Computer Science at the
University of Crete.
Getty Museum to Return Antiquities
Culture Minister George Voulgarakis met yesterday with visiting director of the J. Paul Getty
Museum, Michael Brand, and discussed the solution of pending matters for the return of antiqui-
ties to Greece in the near future. “The satisfaction of Greece’s requests will render possible
a fruitful cooperation which will include long-term loans of works of art” a Culture Ministry
announcement said. The Museum’s representatives agreed to recommend to the Foundation’s board
the return of part of the contested antiquities.
Greek Lace - Special Exhibitions
Greek lace from the Victoria & Albert collections is the subject of an exhibition held at the
Benaki Museum (May 17 - June 18) offering a comprehensive sample of the techniques used in Greece
from the 16 to the 20 centuries. The exhibition is organized within the framework of the OIDFA XII
th th
International Conference (International Bobbin and Needle Lace Organisation) that takes place in
Athens (26-28 May). Another exhibition of the same kind is presented at the Museum of Greek Folk
Art, from May 24 to June 24, 2006. The exhibition under the title “Laces: Conjectural Meeting of
Tradition with Contemporary Art” features laces from the Museum’s collections as well as pieces
of art made by the German artist Gabrielle Grohmann.
Exploring Greece
Nisyros, one of the most unique of all Greek islands - an unspoiled haven of peace and tran-
quillity - is located on the Hellenic volcanic arc, a curved-line of volcanoes stretching from
the Methana peninsula in the east to Kos island in the west.
The nucleus of Nisyros is one of the most fascinating volcanic places in Greece, combining lush
vegetation with dramatic moonscapes. This creates a curious rarity whereby the island, although
May 2006
waterless, is nonetheless fertile. The mineral-rich earth holds moisture and yield olives, vines,
figs, citrus fruit and almonds.
The island is the perfect place for walking tours and discoveries off the beaten track. Here, one
still experiences an unspoilt part of Greece at its best: despite its beauty, mass tourism has not
yet discovered the island, probably due to its relative remoteness and limited size. Nisyros pos-
sesses the clear water quality of the Aegean sea coupled with a small village atmosphere.
Thursday18 th
Greek President on EU’s Future
President of the Republic Karolos Papoulias addressed a formal session of the European Parliament on
Wednesday, to mark the 25th anniversary since Greece joined the European Union.
Papoulias appealed for a return to the founding principles of freedom, equality and social solidar-
ity, with humane policies centered on people and against unemployment. He stressed that the demo-
cratic participation of Europe’s citizens in decisions regarding its future was essential - and
that the European Parliament had a key role in bringing this about. He included references to the EU
as a “superpower of humanitarianism,” EU enlargement, Turkey’s accession to the EU, the division
of Cyprus, and international terrorism.
The last Greek president to formally address the European Parliament was Konstantinos Karamanlis in
1983, when Greece took over the rotating presidency of the EEC for the first time since the country
joined the Community on January 1, 1981.
European Parliament: “Greek President calls for citizens to drive the future of Europe”
Minister of Foreign Affairs: The course of Greece in the European Union
Hellenic Centre for European Studies Newsletter: European Developments - The Greek View
Russian Ombudsman in Athens
The social problems of daily life, but also corruption and the abuse of power by police are the basic
matters which preoccupy the Commissioner for Human Rights in the Russian Federation Vladimir Lukin,
as he himself described in a lecture he delivered on Wednesday at the office of the Greek
Ombudsman in Athens.
Lukin is currently on a visit to Greece, in the context of the “Eunomia” project for the promotion
of ombudsman institutions in south-eastern Europe, carried out by the Greek Ombudsman under the
auspices of the Council of Europe. The Greek Ombudsman Giorgos Kaminis said that he would brief his
Russian counterpart on all issues of importance to the Ombudsman authority in Greece.
Giorgos Kaminis is the Greek Ombudsman elected on April 2003, as successor of Nikiforos
Diamandouros who is serving as European Ombudsman.
Eurovision 2006
The Eurovision Song Contest final takes place on May 20 in Athens. Internet users may have ac-
cess to related news and events through: www.eurovisionathens.gr Greek contestant Anna Vissi’s
personal website: www.annavissi.net
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May 2006
International Philosophy Conference, Crete
The City of Heraklion and the University of Crete Department of Philosophy & Social Studies are
hosting an International Philosophy Conference on “Ethics and Politics” from May 24 to 28. Par-
ticipants are from 20 countries and include some of the world’s leading scholars in philosophy,
humanities, and social sciences. The event will include plenary lectures, workshops and paper
presentations. It will be held in the Venetian Basilica of St. Mark, situated in Heraklion old
city centre.
Keynote speakers: Noam Chomsky, Edgar Morin, Agnes Heller, Richard Wolin, Martin Jay, Ernesto
Laclau and Claus Offe.
Exploring Greece
There are approximately 6000 islands in Greece, of which 227 are officially inhabited. The
Greek Archipelago takes up 7,500 km of the country’s total 16,000 km coastline (Greece is 2 in
nd
the world in coastline/area ratio).
Travel writers have tended to concentrate on specific island chains but none has ever traveled
from Corfu in the West to Crete in the South to the Eastern edges of the islands in the Aegean
and on to Thessaloniki in the North. Travels in the Dolphin’s Wake is a tale and a blog of
just such a journey, taking in every island chain and traveling to at least 40 of the Greek
islands. The first leg of Harry Bucknall’s trip “looking for the perfect Greek Island” began
on May 15 when he departed Venice for Corfu by ship. Over the next six months, he wants to
create a vibrant tale with vignettes of the Greek islands as they are now.
Harry Bucknall’s Blog: travelsinthedolphinswake.blogspot.com
A book + a collection of links: www.greekislandhopping.com
Sailing in Greece: www.sailingissues.com/greek.html
Matt Barrett’s compilation of various info: www.greektravel.com/islands.htm
Friday 19 th
Surge in Public-Private Sector Projects
Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), which involve the construction on public projects with private
capital, with the investors also managing the projects for a pre-determined period, have already
drawn proposals for projects worth 850 million euros, Economy and Finance Minister Giorgos Al-
ogoskoufis said on Thursday.
The projects proposed involve, state agencies’ facilities, tourism and environmental infrastruc-
ture, healthcare and others. Private operators can invest their capital and transfer their know-
how to the public sector. The PPPs would play a decisive role in the development of the economy
over the next few years. “By attracting funds, know-how and the dynamism of the private sector
we ensure better quality, lower costs and the speedier completion of projects,” Alogoskoufis em-
phasized.
Defence Minister in Berlin
May 2006
on Global Security yesterday, stressed the role of Greece as a pillar country for security, stability and
cooperation in South East Europe. Referring in particular to Kosovo, the minister outlined the position
of the government that “procedures to settle the problem and relevant consultations must go ahead with
care and wisdom.” Meimarakis and his German counterpart Franz Joseph Jung expressed their satisfaction
over the level of
Greek-German cooperation in all sectors, following talks in the framework of the scheduling of a more
general cooperation policy and coordination policy between the two countries. Apart from developments in
the Balkans and the issue of Iran, the talks included the prospects of NATO and the strengthening of the
defence aspect of the EU.
Statements made by the two politicians made it clear that the issue of Eurofighter warplanes constituted
an object of consultations but its examination still remains at the level of relevant experts.
Five Firms Win Best Workplaces Awards
Five companies based in Greece - Colgate Palmolive Hellas, Piscines Ideales, Genesis Pharma, Wyeth
Hellas, Procter & Gamble Hellas - have been included in a list of 100 European companies with the best
working environment. The five companies received their awards during a special event held in Berlin on
Wednesday, organized by the Great Place to Work Institute.
Eurovision 2006
First-time contestants Armenia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Finland, FYROM, Ireland, Lithuania,
Russia, Sweden, Turkey, and Ukraine are the 10 countries that qualified in the early hours of
Friday for the 51st Eurovision Song Contest Final on Saturday night, following viewer voting
late Thursday among the 23 contestants at the spectacular semi-final held in the Olympic Indoor
Sports Center.
The ten best semi-finalists elected on Thursday will now compete in Saturday’s final with the 14
top songs of last year’s Eurovision song contest: Switzerland, Moldova, Israel, Latvia, Norway,
Malta, Denmark, Romania, Croatia, the four major countries which traditionally participate in
the competition - Spain, Germany, France and the United Kingdom - and 2006 host country Greece,
which won the Eurovision song contest in 2005.
The event is hosted by Greece’s Eurovision 2004 third-place winner, pop star Sakis Rouvas and
Greek-American reporter and actress Maria Menounos, who will also host the final on Saturday.
Writers’ Workshop on Andros
The “Summer 2006 Creative Writing Workshops” cycle of the Aegean Arts Circle is taking place on
the island of Andros in the months of June and July, 2006. Award-winning writers Nicholas Papan-
dreou, Beatriz Badikian, June Gould will lead the writing workshops, which will include various ex-
ercises, daily feedback and discussion on different writing techniques. Registrations end on May 22.
Ekathimerini daily: “Workshop deadline due”
Nanobiotechnology Summer School
The Nano2life summer school 2006 is being held in Athens June 26 - July 7, by the National Center
for
Scientific Research “Demokritos”, in collaboration with the Foundation of Biomedical Research of
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May 2006
the Academy of Athens, and invited experts from other Nano2Life partners.
War and Identities Conference
The Hellenic Studies Program at Yale University and the Hellenic Observatory of the London School
of Economics and Political Science are holding a conference entitled War and Identities (Macedo-
nia, Occupation & Civil War, and Cyprus) on May 26 and 27 at the Gennadius Library, Athens.
Monday 22 nd
Premier to Chair OECD Annual Meeting
The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development’s (OECD) annual Ministerial Council
Meeting will be held at the French Foreign Ministry in Paris on 23-24 May 2006 under the chair-
manship of Prime Minister Kostas Karamanlis, with discussions focusing on the theme of “Deliver-
ing Prosperity.” Ministers from OECD countries will discuss various topics including the short-
term economic outlook, how to ensure economic stability and improve economic performance, ways to
increase growth and employment and achieve a successful conclusion to the Doha trade talks; and
the future strategic direction of the OECD.
Greece@OECD: www.oecd.org/greece
OECD Ministerial Council Meeting: www.oecd.org/mcm2006/
Hellenic Aid Hosts “Walk the World 2006”
The Foreign Ministry’s “Hellenic Aid” Service, in collaboration with the UN’s World Food Pro-
gram
(WFP), hosted the world walk against hunger amongst children - Walk the World 2006. “Walk the
World” is an initiative of the WFP, and is being held within the framework of the Millennium
Goals, in the form of a symbolic walk, held every year at the same time all over the world. It is
part of the campaign to fight hunger and raise funds for the eradication of hunger among 300 mil-
lion children, mostly in the developing world.
Pakistan Premier States His Views
Last week, Prime Minster of Pakistan Shaukat Aziz visited Greece - the first official visit to
Greece by a premier of Pakistan in 59 years, since it became an independent state. In an interview
with eKathimerini daily (English edition), Aziz emphasized that the purpose of his visit was to
engage with Greece as an EU country, increase trade and investment, seek an exchange of views on
major international events like Iran and Afghanistan, to explore avenues of cultural cooperation,
of assistance from Greece on agriculture, particularly in agribusiness, and to seek investment in
areas such as shipping and petrol.
eKathimerini: “Seeking closer cooperation with Greece, more trade and investment in agriculture
and shipping”
Cyprus General Election Results
AKEL (Progressive Party of Working People) won Sunday’s general elections in Cyprus with a mar-
ginal lead over DISY (Democratic Rally), just as was the case in 2001, gathering 31.13%, as