Greece Warns Siemens Of Legal Action

Greece's government seeking repayment of damages resulting from alleged bribes paid by German industrial giant Siemens AG to secure major telecoms and security contracts.

ATHENS, Greece (AP) -- Greece's government says it will seek repayment of damages resulting from alleged bribes paid by German industrial giant Siemens AG to secure major telecoms and security contracts before the 2004 Athens Olympics.

Investment Minister Haris Pamboukis on Monday said the government would use "all appropriate means" to recover damages.

The warning came after an 11-month parliament investigation.

Investigators say they estimate the state suffered damages worth €2 billion ($2.7 billion). Socialist politicians under investigation for alleged involvement in the scandal are already exempt from prosecution as the statute of limitations has run out.

Siemens officials in Greece could not be reached for comment.
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