Greece's reputation as a stable and safe country has once again come under attack from an American source. In a recent book, career CIA officer Paul R. Pillar compared Greece to Pakistan, describing the two countries as enablers of terrorism. Government spokesman Dimitri Reppas, responding to Pillar's book, called his accusations "excessive" and insisted that Greece is working hard to combat terrorism.

Ironically, the latest salvo comes at a time when Greece, aided by Britain's Scotland Yard, may be on the verge of a breakthrough in the effort to uncover the elusive November 17th terrorist group. Using forensics, DNA analysis, and high tech equipment, investigators have assembled evidence that could enable them to close in on the group, which murdered British defense attache Stephen Saunders last year.

A Millenium Later, Schism Haunts Papal Visit?

The Great Schism that divided the Eastern and Western churches may be "history," but it is still capable of arousing intense feeling among at least some Orthodox Christians. Critical of the impending Papal visit to Athens, the monks of Mt. Athos issued a statement accusing the Pope of using the pilgrimage to create the impression that he is the universal leader of all Christendom. Though the Holy Synod approved the visit, some clergy and laypeople have continued to voice objections. The likelihood of protests is prompting the government to tighten up security for the 80-year old Catholic religious leader.

The visit, set for May 4th, will be the first by a Roman pope to Greece since 1054, when the Schism occurred. Pope John Paul II, recreating the ancient journey of the Apostle Paul, will worship at Pnyx Hill -- the site where Paul preached to the Athenians. He will also meet with Archbishop Christodoulos and with Prime Minister Simitis.

Fighting Words May Veil Turkish Insecurity over Cyprus

As Turkish foreign minister Cem wrapped up a visit to occupied northern Cyprus, Greece and Turkey exchanged heated words over the quarter century-old dispute. Backing up Turkish Cypriot leader Denktash, Cem took aim at Cyprus' proposed EU membership, promising that Ankara would take steps to halt the process. Cem reiterated Turkey's opposition to single sovereignty, calling for a two-state confederation. But the Turkish foreign minister's fighting words may have veiled a growing acceptance that Cyprus will achieve EU membership, and that a combination of international pressure and economic woe is likely to force the Turkish Cypriots back to the negotiating table. The Turkish delegation walked out of UN talks last year, saying that it would not return unless given the same status as the Cypriot government.

Responding to Cem's statements, the Greek government warned Turkey that its attitude was causing self-inflicted damage, alienating Turkey from the international community and damaging its own bid for EU membership. Turkey's EU bid has been stalled in the early stages, as the country struggles with economic woes and a dismal human rights record. Turkey is currently embroiled in a crisis at home, with hundreds of prisoners, along with civilian sympathizers, engaged in a hunger strike to protest prison conditions. As of mid-April, thirteen hunger strikers have died, including a 19 year old university student. In addition, more than 50 demonstrators were arrested last week in Ankara during a protest over rising wages and economic decline.

One third of the island of Cyprus is under occupation by Turkish troops, which invaded in July 1974. The breakaway northern republic has depended on Turkey -- the only nation to recognize it -- to prop up its economy. But with the situation in northern Cyprus more dire than ever, and Turkey itself suffering financial meltdown, pressure is building on Denktash to resume negotiations. Supporting a breakaway state on Cyprus may be turning into a luxury that cash-strapped Turkey -- which recently saw its credit rating downgraded by Standard and Poor's -- can no longer afford.

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