Greece Public Announcement
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Office of the Spokesman

June 16, 2003

This Public Announcement is being issued to alert U.S. citizens to the potential for large protests in and around Thessaloniki, Neos Marmaras, and the Halkidiki peninsula of Greece during the European Union summit, scheduled to take place June 19-21. This Public Announcement expires on June 23, 2003.

The European Union summit is expected to attract as many as 100,000 protesters, mostly around Thessaloniki and Neos Marmaras. Large protests are planned for June 20 in Neos Marmaras and June 21 in Thessaloniki, and other demonstrations are expected to take place in Athens and other areas of Greece throughout the summit. Roads in the immediate vicinity of the Summit venue at Porto Carras will be closed, and other roads in Thessaloniki and the Halkidiki Peninsula may also be blocked or restricted. Maritime traffic in the area will also be affected.

Americans traveling in Greece should avoid demonstrations, since, in the past, similar demonstrations have sometimes turned violent. Traffic and public transportation in the vicinity of demonstrations are likely to be affected.

Additionally, to enhance security measures already in place for the summit, the Greek authorities will intensify security checks at ports of entry and border crossings. Those entering or exiting Greece - whether by car, boat, or train - may be required to produce valid travel documents. American citizens traveling in Greece during this period should be prepared for greater security checks and should have their valid U.S. passports available at all airports, ports and border crossing points.

American citizens can register and obtain updated information on travel and security at the U.S. Embassy in Athens, the U.S. Consulate in Thessaloniki, or on-line at www.usembassy.gr.

The U.S. Consulate in Thessaloniki will be closed on Thursday, June 19 and Friday, June 20. Americans in Thessaloniki requiring emergency assistance should contact the Consulate directly at (2310) 242 - 905.

U.S. Travelers should also consult the Department of State's latest Consular Information Sheet for Greece and the Worldwide Caution Public announcement at www.travel.state.gov.

American citizens may also obtain up-to-date information on security conditions by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States or Canada, and 317-472-2328 from overseas.