Prime Minister George Papandreou on Tuesday received the "anti-smoking committee, along with the relevant health minister, whom he congratulated for what he called their "exceptional work".
The committee and Health Minister Mariliza Xenoyiannakopoulou visited the premier a day ahead of a nation-wide ban of smoking in public indoor areas, with the latest ban now accompanied by fines against proprietors and even individuals.
"Your efforts are extremely significant and contribute to the work we are doing today in our country, aiming to change attitudes, models and manners in order to upgrade the quality of living and to make our country viable, not only regarding the economy but also in every day life," Papandreou stressed.
Xenoyiannakopoulou handed the premier a file containing the ministerial decision, the framework for its implementation and details of a public awareness campaign.
SOURCE: ANA (Athens News Agency)