Greek exports increased by more than 13 percent last year, while the rate of increase exceeds 22 percent in the first half of 2006, Economy and Finance Minister George Alogoskoufis announced, following an Inner Cabinet meeting that focused on the countrys export policy, a meeting chaired by Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis.

Alogoskoufis briefed the Inner Cabinet on the course of exports and, speaking to reporters after the meeting, referred to a "satisfactory performance", adding that exports had a positive contribution to the national economy.

Alogoskoufis said Greek products were exported to all countries, but added that 17 countries and major markets were being particularly targeted with modern policies and advertising techniques.

On the role of the Hellenic Exports Promotion Organization (HEPO) and the Exports Council, the minister stressed that in todays era, "where commerce played a significant role in the global economy, exports was an important sector."

He also stressed that the country must become extroverted, adding that efforts to that end would be intensified.

Government spokesman Theodoros Roussopoulos later echoed the FinMins statements during a regular press briefing.

Roussopoulos one of the factors contributing to the rise in exports was a robust promotions campaign in various overseas markets and international trade exhibitions.