Greece To Liberalize Shipping By 2002

Greek Prime Minister Costas Simitis said on Wednesday that island shipping would be liberalized by 2002, two years ahead of schedule as a result of last week's sinking of ferry Express Samina.

Shipping officials have partly blamed the ferry's sinking last Tuesday on the near-monopolies that have developed in the Aegean, saying some healthy competition would improve the quality of ships and services.

Simitis said shipping companies were merging for strength ahead of the opening of the market, but opposition parties accused the government of not moving quickly enough to assure quality and safety.