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Costas Simitis News

27 Sep 2000

Minoan Ferry Sinking Cited as Worst Maritime Disaster in 35 Years

Rescuers pulled bodies from the Aegean sea on Wednesday as the death toll from Greece's worst maritime disaster in 35 years climbed to at least 62. The ferry Express Samina ran into a rocky islet off the holiday isle of Paros and sank in gale-force conditions late on Tuesday. Hundreds of Greek and foreign passengers were hurled into the rough waters. Twenty-nine people were missing, the Greek Merchant Marine Ministry said. Survivors described a night of terror, clutching life vests and floating debris, and of fishermen "heroes" who came to their rescue. An all-night, all-day rescue operation - reinforced by passing British warships - combed the seas off Paros, a popular tourist destination in the idyllic Cycladic island chain southeast of Athens, for survivors in gale force winds.

05 Oct 2000

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.

25 Jan 2000

Piraeus Shipping Center Inaugurated

Prime Minister Costas Simitis inaugurated National Bank of Greece's Shipping Trade Center in the port city of Piraeus, near Athens, and called for more investment and a better attitude from all. Simitis said the center will help promote quality shipping in the country's key sector. He noted that Greek shipping needs Greek officers and seamen, adding that the government will also offer solutions to the country's shipbuilding industry. The prime minister also said that upgraded, reputable shipping companies would find it easier to list on the Athens Stock Exchange, effectively providing them with an alternative source of capital.