© Reuters 2002

LISBON, March 3 (Reuters) - Portuguese President Jorge Sampaio has called for a meeting on Wednesday to discuss hosting the 2004 European championships after problems over revamping the stadiums that will stage matches at the tournament.

Benfica and Porto, two of Portugal's leading clubs, have said in recent weeks that they cannot afford to rebuild their centrepiece stadiums without financial support from local city councils, both of which changed hands in recent local elections.

"The President calls on all involved parties to maintain a climate which makes possible a calm reflection on the problems," said a statement by the president on Sunday.

The president also called on parties not to make political capital out of the controversy over the stadiums in the run-up to parliamentary elections to be held on March 17.

"It is also desirable in the current political context that a matter of this nature, involving the country's name regarding international organisations, should not be subject to party disputes," the presidential statement added.

Sports Minister Jose Lello on Friday downplayed a warning from UEFA president Lennart Johansson that Portugal could lose the right to stage Euro 2004.

Portugal has promised to build or revamp 10 stadiums alomg with parking and access projects in time for the 2004 tournament.

But the $550 million plans have run into political rows over how much funding should come from local authorities and how much from central government.