Protesters March against Powell Games visit

[cal04]

Protesters are angry about the US-led war in Iraq
Hundreds of people have been marching through Athens to protest against a visit by US Secretary of State Colin Powell for the Olympic Games. They had hoped to march to the US embassy but their route was blocked by several hundred riot police. Some violent scuffles also broke out, with demonstrators throwing bottles and placards at police lines. Participants were protesting against the US' policies in the Middle East, including its deployments in Iraq. Police want the demonstrators to stay clear of the embassy, which is located on a major Olympic traffic lane, correspondents say.

'Not welcome'

Petros Constantinou, one of the protest organisers told BBC News Online: "We are here because we believe Colin Powell should not be coming to Greece. "He has been very provocative over the whole issue of the US being in Iraq - this is a peaceful demonstration to show that we do not want him here.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/3606338.stm



POLICE used tear gas today to disperse hundreds of demonstrators who lit fires, smashed windows and beat up journalists as they marched through Athens to protest a visit by US Secretary of State Colin Powell.One report this morning said 2000 people were involved in the protest, but another put the figure at 700.The demonstrators, who scuffled with police in front of the Parliament, fought running battles with riot squads trying to prevent them from reaching the US Embassy.

They shouted slogans against the US-led occupation of Iraq.
Banners read "Powell Out" and "US out of Iraq".Mr Powell is expected to arrive tomorrow to meet Premier Costas Caramanlis and will then attend the closing ceremony of the Athens Olympics.

http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/common/story_page/0,5744,10594381%255E1702,00.html

[DoYouEverWonder]

1. So I guess I can assume W changed his mind

about going to Greece?

[74dodgedart]

2. All hail the great uniter...What a mess