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Dr Al Sada reaffirms Formula One hailsails a commitment to new young masterter iinn Qatarisation Verstappen

TUESDAY 17 MAY 2016 • 10 SHA’BAAN 1437 • Volume 21 • Number 6799 thepeninsulaqatar @peninsulaqatar @peninsula_qatar Advisory Council FM attends meeting on Libya approves draft anti-tobacco law

their derivatives, seized for violating the law, irrespective of the quantity. A fine not exceeding The court can also order closure QR3,000 has been of a shop violating the law for a period proposed for smoking not exceeding three months, and the or using tobacco decision must be published in two daily newspapers on the expense of products in closed the erring outlet. Five percent of the public places. customs fees on tobacco products will be allocated for health awareness pro- grammes. Importers of cigarettes and other tobacco products and their The Peninsula derivatives must inform the Ministry Foreign Minister H E Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani participating in the ministerial meeting on Libya, held in Vienna yesterday. of Public Health in a written form at least one week before arrival of the The conference was co-chaired by US Secretary of State John Kerry and his Italian counterpart Paolo Gentiloni. → Report on page 6 shipment for checking whether they DOHA: The Advisory Council yester- fulfil the required specifications. day approved the draft anti-tobacco The draft law bans import of such law that stipulates stricter punish- products without a written permis- ment for smoking in closed public sion from the authorities concerned. places. The draft law has stipulated And the Minister of Public Health HIA serves record 8.8 million passengers strict measures to curb the import and will issue a decision on the permit- use of tobacco products and its deriva- ted quantity of nicotine in cigarettes. tives and a ban on electronic cigarettes, Each packet or box of cigarette and The Peninsula period for the airport since its open- HIA also had a significant and 141,815 tonnes in March. The air- “sweika” and other chewing tobacco. The other tobacco products must carry ing in May 2014, HIA said yesterday. increase in aircraft movements dur- port handled a total of 30.9 million Council in its weekly regular meeting yes- the expiry date and graphic warn- HIA saw 8,867,971 passengers ing the same period, at 58,288. This passengers from January to Decem- terday discussed a report of the Legal and ings about the harmful effects of using passing through its gates during represents a 8.6 per cent increase in ber last year ,1.4 million tonnes of cargo Legislative Affairs Committee on the draft such products. DOHA: Hamad International Airport the period, with a record 3,089,826 aircraft take-offs and landings com- and 212,252 aircraft movements. law and decided to submit its recom- The draft law stipulates a ban on (HIA) served a record 8.8 million pas- passengers departing, arriving and pared to the first quarter of last year, Eng Badr Mohammed Al Meer, mendations to the Cabinet. import, trading, promoting or selling sengers during the first quarter of this transiting in January, which was an which saw 56,282 movements. Chief Operating Officer at Hamad The draft law bans smoking in of chewing tobacco and electronic cig- year, with a 20 percent increase in unsurpassed figure for a single month The month of March had an International Airport, said: “With closed public places and stipulates arettes. It bans sale of cigarettes and passenger movement compared to for the airport. unprecedented 20,322 aircraft move- the activation of concourses D and fines not exceeding QR3,000 for other tobacco products to those aged the same period last year. The months of February and ments, which was the highest the E at HIA as well as the technological smoking or using tobacco products below 18 years. Advertisements for pro- The month of January saw a March had 2,722,867 and 3,055,278 airport has had. January and Feb- advancements being implemented and their derivatives in such areas. moting cigarettes and other tobacco record over 3.08 million passengers, passenger movements, respectively. ruary saw 19,455 and 18,511 aircraft in the terminal, we are in a position Permitting others to smoke in such products are not allowed, as per the the highest-ever recorded in a single The same period last year saw a movements, respectively. to handle more passengers, aircraft places is also an offence punisha- draft law. Selling such products in areas at month at the airport. total of 7,360,145 passengers travel- Cargo handled by the airport and cargo movements than ever ble with a similar fine. The court can a distance of less than 1km from schools This unprecedented increase in ling through HIA, including 2,589,400 amounted 389,950 tonnes during the before. We expect a steady growth order confiscation, destroying or re- and other educational and training passenger movement makes the first passengers in January; 2,285,221 in same period, with 125,907 tonnes in in numbers for the remaining year exporting of tobacco products and institutions will also be banned. three months of this year the busiest February; and 2,485,524 in March. January, 122,227 tonnes in February as well.”

IS loses half Remembering the Nakba Tunisian President the area it once claimed in Iraq Essebsi arrives today

AFP QNA ahead of his official visit to Doha, Essebsi said Tuni- sia attaches great importance to develop cooperation with WASHINGTON: The Islamic State DOHA: President of the Qatar while Doha is interested (IS) group has continued losing Tunisian Republic Beji Caid in further promoting bilateral control over territory across Iraq Essebsi will arrive in Doha cooperation, stressing joint and Syria, a Pentagon spokesman today on a three-day official Commitment to pushing for- said yesterday, including almost visit to Qatar. ward bilateral ties. half of what it had once held in Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin “Cooperation between Iraq. The Defence Department Hamad Al Thani and the Tuni- brotherly countries like Qatar had previously estimated that IS sian President will hold talks on and Tunisia is eligible for further fighters had lost control of about enhancing bilateral cooperation development, thus the visit to 40 percent of the territory they in various fields in addition to Doha will increase and expand claimed in Syria and about 10 per- a number of issues of mutual this cooperation and cement cent of the land they held in Syria. concern. bilateral ties,” said Essebsi. Those tallies had gone up in President Essebsi stressed He added that Tunisia looks recent weeks, Pentagon spokes- the depth of bilateral relations forwards to a visit by the Emir man Peter Cook said. A graffiti in Gaza City commemorating the “Nakba” (catastrophe) in reference to the establishment of the between his country and Qatar, to culminate these relations and “The number right now in Iraq is state of Israel 68-years-ago in British-mandate Palestine, which led to the displacement of hundreds of describing them as ‘historic,’ contribute to the advancement of about 45 percent of the territory they thousands of Palestinians. ‘close’ and ‘renewed’. Tunisian-Qatari areas of coop- once held has been recovered,” Cook Talking to QNA in Tunis eration to a greater level. said. “The number in Syria is any- where between 16 to 20 percent.” IS militants stormed across large parts of Iraq and Syria in early 2014, meeting little resist- Traffic congestion cost economy up to QR6.8bn in 2015 ance from Iraqi security forces and exploiting the chaos in civil- war-torn Syria. Since August 2014, the United States has led an By Raynald C Rivera of traffic congestion, the first edition innovations centre in the region with because we had lots of road projects Other significant findings of the international coalition fighting The Peninsula of the report added. a focus on developing and deploying in 2015.” report were November had the high- back against the IS group, using “Based on productivity loss with smart mobility systems and services. Considering other effects of traffic est travel time index in the morning a combination of air strikes and 102 hours commuters lost, we believe Correlating it to other countries, congestion such as accidents, nega- peak hours while December in the training and equipping local part- DOHA: Traffic congestion cost the the cost of congestion in Qatar is the economic cost of congestion in tive impact to the environment and evening peak hours. ners. IS fighters have lost control Qatari economy between QR5.2bn about R5bn to QR7bn in 2015. This Qatar is similar at about .8 percent fuel consumption, the actual eco- The report was based on analysis of Ramadi and Heet in Iraq, but and QR6.8bn last year, says the Qatar translates to about 0.8 percent of the of their GDP, he explained. nomic cost could be higher, added of more than 50mn speed estimations still control other important cit- Traffic Report (QTR) released by Qatar country’s GDP,” , said Dr Adnan Abu- The average number of extra Abu-Dayya. in major road segments available in ies including Mosul and Fallujah. Mobility Innovations Center (QMIC) Dayya, Executive Director and CEO of hours spent by commuters due to The study also found March was the Masarak Data Bank from January In Syria, the group maintains yesterday. QMIC at the launch event yesterday at congestion, however, “looks high the most congested month last year to December last year. control of Raqa, the capital of their At an average a commuter wasted Marriot Marquis hotel. compared to other countries in while the highest congestion period so-called caliphate. 102 hours on the road in 2015 because QMIC is the first independent the world but it can be understood is the morning peak from 7am to 8am. → Continued on page 2 02 TUESDAY 17 MAY 2016 HOME

2 new mosques Headcount of whale sharks in Al Shaheen soon handed over to Awqaf If aerial pictures show the number over 400, The Peninsula & QNA then it will be the highest in the world, said Mohamed Al DOHA: The Ministry of Endow- ments and Islamic Affairs (Awqaf) Jaidah, Head, Whale has received two new mosques Shark Research in Hazm Al Markhiya and South Khalifa this month. The mosque Project. in Hazm Al Markhiya can accom- modate 735 male and 55 female worshipers. It also accommodation for the imam and a Quran mem- By Sidi Mohamed orisation centre. The mosque in The Peninsula South Khalifa can accommodate Officials from the Ministry of Environment and Maersk Oil at the opening session of the conference yesterday. 448 worshippers and has accom- modations for the imam and the muezzin. DOHA: The Ministry of Environment Grand Hyatt Doha yesterday. countries, including the US, Australia, Peninsula that the highest number On the surface the temperature is gearing up to count whale sharks Sheikh Dr. Faleh bin Nasser Brazil, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Mex- of whale sharks come to Al Shaheen could reach 30-35 degrees Cel- in Al Shaheen Oilfield by taking aer- Al Thani, Assistant Undersecre- ico, Singapore and Taiwan. in summer from May to September sius and 20-22 degrees as the water Qatar, Tunisia ial photos from a helicopter, a senior tary of Agricultural Affairs and Fish Abdulrahman Al Emadi, Head, to feed on tuna eggs and the second goes deeper in the summer. In win- official has said. Resources, inaugurated the three- Maersk Oil Research and Technol- thing that attracts whale sharks is the ter, whale sharks are never seen, said ties reviewed If the number of whale sharks day event and said: “The hosting of ogy Centre, praised the centre’s role industrial coral reefs around the 33 oil Back. The average length of a whale crosses 400, it will be the highest in the conference is in line with Qatar in supporting environmental and platforms operated by Maersk. shark is between eight and nine DOHA: Minister of Education the world, said Mohamed Al Jaidah, National Vision 2030, which consid- marine life. He said the corals started to grow metres and weighs about 30 tonnes. and Higher Education H E Dr Head, Whale Shark Research Project. ers the environment one of its main Al Jaidah said the forum aims to in the platforms and other species of The conference is being held for Mohammed bin Abdul Wahed Ali The project has documented since pillars.” He hoped that the event enhance international cooperation in small and big fish came which cre- the first time outside the US, and Al Hammadi yesterday met Tuni- its launch in 2010 some 400 whale achieves its goals through exchang- preserving whale sharks, put plans in ated artificial reefs, resulting in a rich hosted by the Ministry of Municipal- sian Minister of Higher Education sharks, which gather every year in the ing ideas and information. place to protect them and exchange biodiversity. The deepest part in Al ity and Environment, in collaboration and Scientific Research Chiheb oilfield, Al Jaidah said on the sidelines The conference is attended by ideas and experiences in the field. Shaheen oilfield is 60m to 70m and with Maersk Oil Research and Tech- Bouden in Tunis. Dr Al Hammadi of the Fourth International Whale officials from the ministry and Mae- Steffen Back, Environmental its temperature is suitable for whale nology Centre. was in Tunisia at an invitation by Sharks Conference which opened at rsk Oil, some 75 scientists from 28 Team Lead at the centre, told The shark in May and September, he said. his counterpart. They discussed educational issues, the exchange of experi- ences and best practices in both countries and cooperation in the Road safety ambassadors honoured field of scientific research. Dr Al Hammadi also met Minister of Education Neji Jelloul and attended a session at the headquarters of By Sanaullah Ataullah the ministry. He also visited Arab The Peninsula League Educational, Cultural And Scientific Organisation and Zay- tuna College. DOHA: Ambassadors for road safety have been honoured for convincing their schoolmates who are young Roqaa Arabic Brig Muhammad Abdullah Al Malki (right), Secretary, National Traffic motorists to comply with traffic Safety Committee; Abdulla Zaid Al Talib (centre), Chairman, Qatar safety rules. calligraphy Mobility Innovations Centre; and Dr Adnan Abu-Dayya, CEO, QMIC, at “I observed the students became the launch of the First Qatar Traffic Report by QMIC, at the Marriott easily ready to listen to the advice of workshop Marquis City Centre Doha Hotel yesterday. Pic: Salim M / The Peninsula their classmates or other students of their age compared to those given by teachers,” said Ambassador for Road DOHA: The Cultural Village Foun- QTR introduces concept of Safety Saqar Abdullah from Hamad dation-Katara will organise ‘A Bin Abdullah Bin Jassim Secondary Road Safety Ambassadors at the honouring ceremony at Qatar Journey to the art of Roqaa Arabic Independent School for Boys. University Library Building yesterday. Pic: Baher A / The Peninsula calligraphy’ workshop by Syrian Masarak Congestion Index “The youngsters have a craze for calligrapher Nasser Al Hamwi on reckless driving, especially speeding May 26 to 28. and racing, endangering their lives especially those in the habit of crazy Mana Secondary School for Boys Al Hamwi said the work- Continued from page 1 and those of others. driving to the accident ward in a hos- shared the third prize. shop will provide opportunities use cases the QTR can help in “During my campaign for traf- pital,” said Abdullah. The initiative was launched for beginners interested in Ara- include assessing the impact of fic awareness in our school, I found “We used heart-touching words by Qatar Transportation and Traf- bic calligraphy to discover this “For the first time in Qatar we road/infrastructure projects on traf- a student with dare-devil driving. It to convince the students. We told fic Safety Centre (TTSC) (previously beautiful art through Roqaa Ara- have a complete and comprehen- fic over time; monitoring changes in was very difficult to stop him. I inter- them that their parents are waiting known as Qatar Road Safety Stud- bic calligraphy. sive system that allows us to monitor congestion levels across Qatar; iden- acted several times with him, once at homes. Now it depends on them — ies Centre (QRSSC) in the beginning He said in a statement yester- the traffic and mobility behaviour in tifying problematic congestion areas with my supervisor. Finally, I took a opt for safety to reach home or go to of this academic year. day that the workshop is based on the country. The QTR is one of the in specific times/days and quantify- picture with him and he agreed to hospital,” said another ambassador. “This year 18 Independent practical exercises to demonstrate key outputs of the Masarak Sys- ing the economic and environmental give up the bad practice.” The ambassadors were shar- schools for boys participated in the how to compose the Roqaa clipped tem which was fully developed and impact of road congestion. “Some 50 percent students of ing their experiences about traffic initiative. We expect more schools to letters made of short, straight deployed by QMIC and is the most QTR uses a number of key glo- final year of secondary schools are awareness programme in schools join next year,” said a senior official. lines and simple curves and the comprehensive in the region,” said bally accepted metrics to report on motorists and are likely to violate in a ceremony at Qatar Univer- “We focus on boys because stud- straight and even lines of text in a Abu-Dayya, adding the system will the severity, time, and locations of traffic rules. sity yesterday, where the best ies suggest that boys were found grammatically correct, beautiful, be used to produce the QTR in an traffic congestion in Qatar. In partic- “In this case, the school traffic schools participating in the Traffic indulged in traffic violations more balanced and coordinated manner. annual basis. ular, the QTR introduces the concept awareness programme through stu- Safety Ambassador Initiative were than girls. The workshop will also fea- QTR is the first national traffic of Masarak Congestion Index, which dent to student interaction played a honoured. “We plan to make a separate sec- ture the historical background of report that could help ministries, indicates average reduction in speed key role in making them follow traffic Doha Independent School for tion at our department to bring all the Roqaa style, traditional Arabic national authorities, and the private due to congestion, and the Travel rules. We asked them politely to give boys bagged the first prize, followed initiatives of traffic safety to schools calligraphy tools and their usage. enterprises in traffic studies, urban Time Index, which indicates the up their bad habits and explained to by Hamad Bin Abdullah Secondary under one umbrella,” said Dr Abdul Roqaa is a calligraphic variety planning, and performance monitor- increase in travel time due to con- them the repercussions of reckless School for Boys in the second and Al Aziz Ali Saadi, Head,Health and of Arabic script. The Roqaa style of ing in the areas of transportation and gestion, to assess the level of road driving. Wakra Secondary School for Boys Safety Department at the Ministry handwriting is the most common. road safety. Examples of important congestion. “We took some students and Mohammad Bin Abdul Aziz Al of Education and Higher Education. It is also known as Ottoman Font in Turkey and most of the docu- ments from Ottoman Empire era are written in Roqaa.

WISE laureate calls for more social investment in education VGP-BPS26 battery packs for Sony Vaio The Peninsula Founder of Afghan Institute of Learn- laptops recalled ing, was presented with the prize at WISE Summit last November. DOHA: The Ministry of Economy For over 20 years she has worked and Commerce, in collaboration DOHA: WISE Prize for Education to bring education and healthcare with Fifty One East Service Cen- Laureate Dr Sakena Yacoobi recently services to the most vulnerable under tre, has announced the recall of delivered a keynote address at a Har- extreme conditions of war, displace- VGP-BPS26 battery packs for Sony vard Graduate School of Education ment and oppression during Taliban Vaio laptops due to the overheat- event which considered ‘Education rule in her native country. ing of the packs. in Vulnerable Regions’. Dr Yacoobi spoke about her work Models that may have been Dr Yacoobi called for more social in Afghanistan, including establish- sold together with an affected bat- investment in education as the only ing a hospital and a high school, and tery pack are SVE1413 and SVE1513 path to peace, prosperity and mod- the institute, which is under her lead- Series. Models that may have eration in troubled regions. ership, and plans for the creation of a been equipped with an affected The Ask with Forum, a series of university for women in Afghanistan. battery pack during repairs are: public lectures, formed part of Har- Dr Irina Bokova, Director- VPCCB14/3/2/ Series; SVE14113/2/ vard Graduate School of Education’s General, Unesco, spoke about Series; SVE14A13/2/ Series; Harvard Advanced Learning Initia- international development efforts SVE15123/ Series; VPCEH12/ Series; tive, ‘Deep Dive’. and stressed the need for societies SVE17123/ series; and VPCEJ12/ It facilitates international discus- to hold governments responsible for Series. The ministry said the sion of education and gender equality ensuring that children receive a sec- recall is part of its efforts to protect issues, serves as a platform for cross ondary education. consumers and ensure that deal- cultural understanding, and reflects She said middle income countries ers follow up on product defects aspirations of World Innovation Sum- have the greatest gender inequalities and repairs. The ministry said it WISE Prize for Education Laureate Dr Sakena Yacoobi (second left) with Unesco Director-General Dr Irina mit for Education (WISE), an initiative regarding access to education and will coordinate with the centre of Qatar Foundation for Education, that these countries can well afford Bokova and other officials at Harvard Graduate School of Education. to follow up on maintenance and Science and Community Develop- greater investments. repairs and communicate with ment (QF). A panel discussion included the Harvard Advanced Learning Ini- They highlighted the need to to scale innovative solutions in vari- customers to ensure repairs are Dr Yacoobi, a US citizen and speakers and included members of tiative faculty. close gender inequalities and ways ous contexts around the world. carried out. HOME TUESDAY 17 MAY 2016 03

Katara opens exhibition on QM plans seven expos this year collection of Iraqi artist Terracotta Army will be on show at the Museum of Islamic Art where visitors Qatar Museums to will get the chance to meet the war- The Peninsula exhibitions such as the one by the hold exhibitions by riors who guarded a hidden empire. Iraqi artist. “This is due to the value The exhibition will display 101 pieces of such exhibitions in raising the Iraqi, Turkish and dating from the Neolithic period to the importance of Iraqi fine art and the Iraqi-Canadian artists Qing Dynasty, spanning over 5,000 DOHA: The Cultural Village Foun- distinguished work they have intro- throughout the years of China’s history. Potteries, dation- Katara has opened an duced. That, indeed, have some bronzes, jades, porcelains, gold, silver, exhibition featuring the finest among implications not only on Iraqi fine year, along with an enamel and many other Chinese treas- the collection of Iraqi artist Talib Al art, but also on the Arabian as well exhibition ‘Treasures ures will be on show, selected from Baghdadi. as the universal one,” he said. 11 museums and heritage institutions Katara Deputy Manager for Al Baghdadi said: “I’m not a pro- of China’ to mark from across China. Aimed at reflect- Operations, Ahmad Al Sayed, along fessional artist, but I’m passionate Qatar China 2016 ing the integration between cultures with Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al about this type of ancient art specif- of East and West, the exhibition will Thani, and representative of Iraqi ically Iraqi and Islamic ones, which Year of Culture. offer visitors an opportunity to appre- Embassy Nawar Sadeq, were present are sought to represent the modern ciate the profundity and richness of during the inauguration of the exhi- movement through ancient centuries Chinese culture and traditions from bition. Al Sayed stressed Katara’s in unique, innovative, and amusing a number of perspectives. keenness in hosting important paintings.” The Peninsula An ‘artist in residence’ at the Fire Station. Additionally, following its huge success in Japan, the UK, Brazil and 17 at Al Riwaq. programme at the Fire Station will Turkey, QM will again launch Pearls: From May 22 until September 11, draw to a close on June 2 with the Jewels from the Sea, which this time DOHA: Qatar Museums (QM) will hold Turkish artist AslıÇavuşoğlu will dis- annual end of residency exhibition at will travel to China, to be on show at seven exhibitions in Qatar and China play her installation Red/Red at the the Garage Gallery. the National Museum of China from throughout the year. Mathaf Project Space. The installa- Opening on October 18 at the QM September 27. Over the coming months, QM will tion comprises 17 pieces, including Gallery in Katara, QM will present A unique joint exhibition docu- open a number of exhibitions in Qatar, handmade notebooks of drawings Fragments, an exhibition by con- menting an exchange programme including a world-class exhibition by and paintings made with red pig- temporary Iraqi-Canadian artist between photographers from Doha Iraqi artist Dia Al Azzawi, which will ments from Armenia and Turkey. Mahmoud Obaidi. In his work Obaidi and the Zhejiang Province Depart- be open to the public in two venues at Çavuşoğlu will deliver a public talk on recreates what has been stolen or ment of Culture in China will present the same time including Mathaf: Arab May 22, during which she will discuss destroyed to try to piece the city different aspects of the cultures and Museum of Modern Art, and the QM the disappearance of Armenian red back together again. The exhibition societies of both countries. The pho- Gallery Al Riwaq. as a material, and also how she views shows how Obaidi is grappling with tography exhibition, which is designed The exhibition, showcasing over her work as a proposal for a model the destruction of an 8,000-year-old to showcase the best works from 350 works across 50 years and a range of co-existence for the inhabitants of civilisation, which has been laid waste Qatari and Chinese photographers, of media, aims at mapping an itinerary the region to protect and develop the in less than a fraction of that time. aims to capture real people in their of modernism and profiles the practice natural ecosystem that produces the In September, the Qatar China natural environments. The exhibition of the Iraqi artist. Curated by Cathe- pigment. 2016 Year of Culture presents the will open at the QM Gallery in Katara Ahmad Al Sayed (left), Deputy Manager for Operations, Katara, rine David, the exhibition will open After nine successful months, exhibition Treasures of China. Terra- in October, and then in Zhejiang prov- Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim Al Thani (centre) and other officials tour on October 16 at Mathaf and October the current Artist in Residency cotta soldiers from the First Emperor’s ince, China in November. the exhibition. Expert warns against VCUQatar students honoured with AEB awards shisha smoking The Peninsula “We are committed to national devel- opment and haver invested in supporting The Peninsula young and enthusiastic generation of designers from VCUQatar. “Over the years, DOHA: Arab Engineering Bureau (AEB) VCUQatar graduates have proved to be presented the 2016 awards for Design at the forefront of the design industry in DOHA: Shisha smokers put themselves at greater risk of Excellence, and Creative Achievement and Qatar; and it is our pleasure to be able to diseases like bronchitis, emphysema, periodontal disease Potential to two graduating and two jun- award such individuals for hard work and and lung cancer and expectant mothers who smoke shisha ior students from Virginia Commonwealth help them start their careers,” said Jaidah. can give birth to children with low weight, says an expert. University in Qatar (VCUQatar) during a The award for creative achievement “With a water pipe, and as the water cools the smoke ceremony at the university. and potential was presented to graphic and the draw resistance of the pipe is so low, it’s very Ibrahim Jaidah, CEO, AEB Group, and design junior Alisha Saiyed and interior easy to inhale a lot Chief Architect, a long-time supporter and design junior Majdulin Nasrallah. of smoke – up to friend of VCUQatar, presented the award These awards aim to help junior stu- 50 litres of smoke for excellence in graphic design to grad- dents recognise their potential, create over a 45-minute uating student Dana Chua and for interior leadership and encourage them to con- use period”, said design to graduating student Mario M tinue developing skills through their Professor Thomas Bermejo. The awards were instituted by senior year. The awards are a major high- Eissenberg, Direc- Jaidah to encourage and assist graduat- light of the academic year for VCUQatar’s FROM LEFT: Akel I Kahera, Dean, VCUQatar; Ibrahim Jaidah, CEO, AEB Group; tor of the Center for ing students as they start their careers as students. the Study of Tobacco designers in Qatar and the region. Akel I Kahera, Dean, VCUQatar, said and interior design junior Majdulin Nasrallah and graphic design junior Alisha Products at Virginia Jaidah is a pioneer of a new archi- the university was grateful for continued Saiyed with their awards. Commonwealth Uni- tectural movement that combines support from AEB over the past decade versity in US. far-reaching influences of Islamic art with and that the awards recognised the stu- environment. AEB and Jaidah continue to biennial international design conference, He added that modern styles to create memorable land- dents’ commitment to their careers in partner with VCUQatar through their par- and by offering internship opportunities compared to around mark structures shaping Qatar. what is a very competitive and demanding ticipation in Tasmeem Doha, VCUQatar’s to VCUQatar students. one litre of smoke that is consumed by someone smoking a cigarette over about five minutes. It’s important to know Professor Thomas Eissenberg, that the water only cools the smoke, it an expert on the harmful doesn’t filter out effects of tobacco products, toxicants.” speaking about health risks Speaking at Weill from smoking shisha, at Weill Cornell Medicine- Cornell Medicine-Qatar’s Qatar’s (WCM-Q) (WCM-Q) Grand Rounds. Grand Rounds to an audience of physi- cians, researchers, students and healthcare professionals Eissenberg pointed out that smoking shisha or narghila has experienced huge growth in popularity in the Mid- dle East, the US and Europe in recent years, particularly among young people. Many people mistakenly believe that shisha is not as harmful or addictive as smoking cigarettes pointing out that shisha can actually be more harmful because of the way it is smoked Eissenberg explained. Speaking about his research outcomes said chemical analysis of water pipe and cigarette smoke he conducted in laboratory found that the smoke from a 45-minute shi- sha session exposed a smoker to 1.7 times the amount of nicotine, and contained 8.4 times the amount of harmful carbon monoxide and a massive 36 times the amount of tar, as the smoke from one cigarette over a five-minute period. Tobacco smoke from shisha contains many of the same poisons and can cause addiction in the same way as the smoke from cigarettes. The installment of WCM-Q was attended by an expert in tobacco research and nicotine dependence and dis- cussed the harmful effects of smoking shisha. Dr. Thurayya Arayssi, Associate Dean for Continuing Professional Development said: “Shisha smoking is press- ing issue and it is very good for the healthcare community in Qatar to benefit from Prof. Eissenberg’s expertise that shed light on the health risks associated with all types of smoking tobacco products.” Calling for more research into the effects of water pipe smoking and more work to raise awareness of its dangers, Prof. Eissenberg added: “Why should we care about water pipe smoking? Because our youth are get- ting addicted to it, and it’s killing them.” 04 TUESDAY 17 MAY 2016 HOME

Fashion trends Katara Hospitality opens Hotel Park

The vibrant park is characterised by water features including mini-fountains, waterfalls, small streams and sprawling well-manicured lawns.

The Peninsula

DOHA: Katara Hospitality has offi- cially opened the Hotel Park, a new public family-friendly park adjacent to Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel. Planned as an illustration of Katara Hospitality’s commitment to social responsibility and the impor- The new family-friendly public park adjacent to Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel. tance of promoting sustainability, Hotel Park is poised to well serve Doha’s residents while showcasing relaxing landscape destination for play areas, an outdoor fan area, fit- to Doha International Exhibition an impeccable natural landscape for family enjoyment is one way we aim ness zone and video wall will round Center through an underground visitors to enjoy. The vibrant park is to show continued appreciation of off Hotel Park’s casual relaxation tunnel link. Hotel Park’s compre- characterised by water features the valued residents of our commu- amenities, well positioning this pub- hensive parking allotment of over including mini-fountains, waterfalls, nity,” said Hamad Abdulla Al Mulla, lic space as a destination of choice. 2,500 spaces. Hotel Park will be small streams and sprawling well- CEO, Katara Hospitality. Hotel Park will soon have five food managed by Mosanada, a Qatar- manicured lawns. Situated in the backdrop of and beverage outlets offering a based facilities management “At Katara Hospitality, one of West Bay’s modern architecture, diverse palette of authentic cuisine company. The underground parking Models showcasing the latest creations by local and International designers our core values is to continuously Hotel Park is set to provide resi- and desserts. To add to an impres- will be managed by QDPV, a joint during the ‘Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Doha’ at the Shangri-La Hotel. give back to our community while dents and visitors a relaxing escape sive garden and restaurant offering, services company that specializes Pic: Kammutty VP / The Peninsula promoting sustainability through to enjoy picnics, play areas and out- Hotel Park will carry four levels of in the design and operation of car our initiatives. Offering a natural door family gatherings. Children’s underground parking with access parks and parking facilities.

Bedaya holds first rotating market for virtual firms Karting rides

The Peninsula — men and women — aged 16-24 in the first edition of ‘Souq Maq- toura’ at Aspire Park. “Several youth have started busi- DOHA: Bedaya Center for Entrepre- ness through social media platforms. neurship and Career Development We contacted and invited them to (Bedaya Center), a joint initiative participate in ‘Souq Maqtoura’. by Qatar Development Bank and “The participants showcased Silatech, organised the ‘Souq Maq- and sold products and tested for toura’ programme, the first rotating the first time the actual feeling of market to support entrepreneurs, in a real souq and interaction with collaboration with Aspire Park from the audience. They also introduced May 12 to 14. The programme is the their products to the local market. first-of-its-kind for Qatari youth Visitors at the first ‘Souq Maqtoura’ programme held in collaboration “We aim to offer a wide selection owning virtual companies on social with Silatech, at Aspire Park. of services for young entrepreneurs platforms, specifically small and to guide them and sharpen their medium enterprises (SMEs). About media platforms only. professional development and skills. “ We offer programmes that 40 Qatari youth participated and This concept met with great entrepreneurship through diverse enable them to take the first step experienced life in a booth. success and appreciation from mediums and methods, including towards success through best solu- The programme aimed to sup- exhibitors and visitors. workshops for basic and advanced tions that help them achieve their port youth in showcasing their Reem Al Sowaidi, General Man- skills to help them adapt to the local goals and objectives, allowing us Drivers enjoy their stint on their karting rides inside Losail Circuit projects and products and move ager, Bedaya Center, said: “The market and launch their projects to fulfil the needs of the SME sec- Pic: Kammutty VP / The Peninsula them to a real display area rather centre’s main objective is to ena- and products. Today, we witnessed tor in line with Qatar National Vision Sports Club. than highlighting them on social ble entrepreneurs in the fields of participation of 40 Qatari youth 2030,” she added. QC finishes projects in Bangladesh

The Peninsula for social care, and surface water people with basic education, for extending a helping hand to wells. Agricultural lands were also health, drinking water and san- the needy people as religious distributed to 30 needy families itation facilities and make them and moral responsibility towards under an income generation pro- independent through income all the needy around the world,” DOHA: Qatar Charity (QC) has gramme. More than 5,000 people generation programmers,” he he added. Datyabara is part of completed development projects are benefiting. added. Medonghar in Bangladesh. The to provide basic services and live- “As a result of the difficult Al Yaf’i said while plan- village is around 260km from the lihoods to the needy in Datyabara circumstances, the people of ning and setting its strategies capital Dhaka and is considered in Bangladesh. the town and neighbouring vil- for Bangladesh, QC ensured to one of the remote because there The projects included estab- lages suffered due to a lack of cover all fields, including devel- are no roads leading to it. lishing a school for preparatory basic services,” said Khaled opment projects, keeping pace One can reach there only and secondary students, a health Abdullah Al Yaf’i, Director of with development plans of Bang- through motorcycles, especially centre, a mosque, a centre for Operations, QC. ladesh government. “We thank in the raining season. Most of the reciting the Holy Quran, a home QC aimed to provide the the philanthropists from Qatar lands are filled with water after it rains and boats are the only avail- able means of transportation to access the area. QC plans to build additional floors to buildings to enable the centre to offer multiple services for the increasing number of needy people. Other services will be added such as a centre for occupational education, mainly in the agri- cultural field. The project was implemented under Bangladesh’s developmental plan for agriculture and educational centres. Through this centre, students will be taught the most recent methods of farming, including producing enhanced seeds and harvesting crops which can face insects and survive disasters like floods. The centre will help double production of the farms and will make them more adaptable to all types of climate so that the output remains all year-long. Students attending a class in a school built by Qatar Charity in Bangladesh. HOME TUESDAY 17 MAY 2016 05 Emir Cup Trophy Tour visits schools

Students of Umm Salama Primary School for Girls and Khalifa Model Independent School Qatar Red Crescent Society volunteers interview people in Rakhine for Boys celebrate the State. visit of the Emir Cup Trophy. QRCS delegation visits Rakhine State in Myanmar The Peninsula

The Peninsula To avoid duplication and ensure DOHA: The Emir Cup Trophy Tour vis- coordination with local and inter- ited Umm Salama Primary School for national partners, the team held Girls and Khalifa Model Independent Students with the Emir Cup Trophy at Umm Salama Primary School for Girls. meetings with World Health School for Boys. DOHA: A team assigned by Qatar Organisation (WHO); Office for A large number of students and Red Crescent Society (QRCS) to the Coordination of Humanitarian staff gathered around the trophy for to be part of the final match on Friday. exhibition in which health advisers well-being of our students and we Myanmar to take stock of the Affairs (OCHA); Office of the United a memorable photo opportunity with “The tournament is one of the most sig- gave tips schoolchildren on healthy eat- constantly organise sport and football- humanitarian situation on ground Nations High Commissioner for Ref- the most coveted prize. nificant in Qatar in which all clubs are ing and lifestyle, importance of taking related activities for schoolchildren as like healthcare, shelter, water and ugees (UNHCR); Danish Refugee The visit to Umm Salama Primary competing to win to have the honour to part in sport and staying active during it is our responsibility to ensure that our sanitation, and food, has returned Council (DRC); and the Department School for Girls included a fun-packed meet in person Emir H H Sheikh Tamim and after school hours. students live a healthy and active life- to Doha. of Health in Sittwe, the capital of day in which students performed a bin Hamad Al Thani.” Nawal Al Tamimi, Principal of the style.” The Emir Cup 2016 promotional It also assessed the needs and Rakhine. At the end of the mission, specially choreographed dance to cele- As part of it’s mission to educate school, said: “We are proud to welcome campaign aims to instil a football cul- work of QRCS’s mobile clinics the team delivered a generator to brate the fact that the Emir Cup Trophy students about the importance of the Emir Cup Trophy in our school and ture in Qatar and involve all segments programme launched in 2013 in MRCS as a contribution from QRCS Tour made a stop in their school ahead taking part in sports and adopting a be part of the promotional campaign of the community, specifically schools, response to clashes in Rakhine State. to build capacity of its host coun- of the final match. healthy lifestyle, Khalifa Model Inde- for the Emir Cup 2016. Being part of to take part in events and activities The clinics, each equipped with a terpart in catering for the needs of Moza Al Mahshadi, Owner and pendent School for Boys celebrated the this major event has a great impact on organised by Qatar Football Associa- doctor, an assistant, three nurses and beneficiaries. Principal of the school, said: “It is a tour by organising a mini-football tour- students and faculty as it makes us feel tion during the tournament and ahead local volunteers, continue to offer The current humanitarian needs pleasure for the school to host the tour; nament for students and other sport involved in the biggest football compe- of the final match. The Emir Cup final primary healthcare, health edu- include shelter solutions, extension this is of utmost importance to us and activities. tition of the year. match will take place at 7pm at Jassim cation, and hygiene promotion for of health care services, and capac- the schoolchildren and we are excited The event also included a small “Sport plays a vital role in the Bin Hamad Stadium (Al Sadd Stadium). target communities. ity-building for the local community, During a week-long visit to the especially as the monsoon sea- country, the team also observed the son approaches. Another aspect of shelter, sewage and water supply intervention is livelihood support conditions in camps and towns and to enable the affected population Ministry signs agreement on farm research interviewed affected families in four restore their normal life. towns and four camps, QRCS said QRCS is developing a strategy in a statement. The team also held to enhance humanitarian services The Peninsula company Mitsui & Co have signed an in Rawdat Al Faras and Al Ettariyyah. presence of Shingo Tsuda, Japanese discussions in six targeted districts there. QRCS’s mission began late in agreement for cooperation in agricul- It was signed by Sheikh Dr. Faleh bin Ambassador to Qatar; and Hamad with local community and camp 2012 to help victims of conflict in ture development. Nasser Al Thani, Assistant Undersec- Al Baridi, Director of International management committees, through Rakhine. The deal seeks transfer of agri- retary for Agriculture and Fisheries; Cooperation; and Masoud Jarallah interpreters provided by Myanmar Some 84,000 people benefited DOHA: The Ministry of Municipal- cultural technology and enhance and Ken Yamamura, Deputy Direc- Al Marri, Director of Agricultural Red Cross Society (MRCS). from QRCS’s relief programmes. ity and Environment and Japanese agricultural research at centres based tor-General of the company, in the Research Department at the ministry.

Officials from Oxy Qatar and Qatar Business Incubation Center at the launch of Mawaheb Competition 2016. Oxy Qatar and QBIC launch Mawaheb contest

The Peninsula The LeanStartup program, which business skills. includes a 10-week intensive pro- “Mawaheb evolved from the gramme with a one-week on and ‘Oxy Adopts a Qatari Artist’ created one-week off frequency; four or five by the company last year. Through DOHA: Occidental Petroleum of sessions from 4pm to 8pm during Mawaheb, Oxy Qatar is supporting Qatar Ltd. (Oxy Qatar), in partner- the week on; and assignments and the cultural goals of Qatar National ship with Qatar Business Incubation coaching during the week off. Vision 2030. Center (QBIC), officially launched The top three proposals will be “The winner of Mawaheb will be Mawaheb Competition 2016. presented in front of jury. The win- a talented Qatari who will be able to The talent contest aims to provide ner will also be awarded QR200,000 develop his or her business skills to a Qatari video producer or graphic over a two-year period when the art- thrive as an artist while generating designer with financial support and ist completes certain milestones and an income. Oxy Qatar is partnering knowledge to make his or her skills the incubation process. with QBIC to bring their expertise a sustainable profession. QBIC’s partnership with Oxy to achieve this goal, with the hope Entrants must complete a form, Qatar includes a confirmed seat at its that Oxy Qatar’s financial award and which includes five sections — the signature LeanStartup Programme, QBIC’s LeanStartup Programme will competitor’s basic details and con- managing the administration of grant provide the winner with tools for tact information; skills background; funds, tracking deliverables, per- long-term success.” whether or not the participant is an formance, outcome, and providing Aysha Al Mudahka, CEO, QBIC, established company with an active quarterly reports on milestones. said: “We welcome budding entrepre- Qatari partner; how the competitor QBIC’s role in the initiative is to neurs of all kinds to further enhance would generate income with his or develop the entrepreneurial side of our circle of diverse entrepreneurs at her talent; and two to three of the the talent by providing guidance to QBIC. We hope that the creative win- competitor’s best original works. create a start-up and help ensure ner can refine their project ideas with The applicant’s submissions will its sustainability. QBIC will provide us at the LeanStartup Programme to be assessed to know whether the art- business workshops, keep track of quickly and efficiently develop the works are unique and creative; what the winner’s development based on soulful art scene in Qatar.” impact the applicant can provide to their LeanStartup Programme, will Competitors must be a Qatari Qatari society; how the applicant will work with milestones and evaluate with a minimum age of 22 and not utilise a Mawaheb grant; whether the when the winner will be ready to exceeding 35. If the entrant is apply- applicant can generate income; and receive funds. ing as a company that has multiple whether the applicant has original Stephen Kelly, President and Gen- owners, one owner must be a Qatari. artworks? eral Manager, Oxy Qatar, said: “Our The participating company should The winner will be awarded focus areas include promotion of not be in business for more than three with the opportunity to participate local arts and culture and encour- years. The winner will be announced in QBIC’s LeanStartup Programme. agement of entrepreneurship and in August. 06 TUESDAY 17 MAY 2016 MIDDLE EAST Lebanon seeks to ease concerns over US law on Hezbollah

Reuters dispute between Lebanon’s most the help of the Lebanese central bank government ministers, MPs, and local Central Bank governor Riad international banks, Salameh said powerful group — the heavily armed and a number of other banks. It urged councillors. Lebanon’s banking sec- Salameh recently used an inter- this would not be an option and all Hezbollah — and a central bank the central bank governor to review a tor accounts for around 6 percent of view on a flagship current affairs banks must comply. widely seen as a pillar of the oth- recent circular to banks detailing reg- gross domestic product. programme to assure citizens the The Association of Banks in Leb- BEIRUT: The Lebanese prime min- erwise weak and dysfunctional ulations about who can be sanctioned. Since 2001, the United States has regulations protect them from hav- anon said there are Lebanese banks ister sought to ease concerns about Lebanese state. The MPs said the law would push put more than 100 individuals and ing bank accounts arbitrarily blocked in 33 countries and the regulations a new US law targeting Hezbollah’s Prime Minister Tammam Salam, the country “towards bankruptcy entities affiliated with Hezbollah on or closed. The United States has a list are necessary to keep Lebanon part finances in comments published yes- in comments reported in Assafir because of a wide rift” that would sanctions lists under existing anti- of people sanctioned for terrorism. of the global banking system. terday, after the group attacked the newspaper, warned against using emerge between Lebanese and the terrorism funding legislation, but A Lebanese bank or company doing “While we will remain vigilant in central bank for agreeing to measures the issue for political grandstanding. banks - a suggestion that many Leb- this new law is aimed at Hezbollah business with one will not be able to our efforts to isolate Hezbollah from it depicts as part of a war against it. “We are dealing with it with the anese would stop dealing with the specifically. do deal with any US financial institu- the international financial system, we The Hezbollah International finance minister and the (central banks for fear of being sanctioned. Iran-backed Hezbollah, classi- tion because that institution could be will do so in a manner that protects, as Financing Prevention Act (HIFPA) bank) governor, and matters are still Hezbollah, whose fighters played fied as a terrorist group by the United fined for non-compliance. much as possible, the Lebanese econ- passed in December threatens sanc- under control,” he said. a major role in forcing Israel to with- States, wields enormous political While in theory a Lebanese bank omy and financial system, and that tions against anyone who finances Hezbollah MPs last week said the draw from southern Lebanon in 2000, influence in Lebanon and its power- could carry on working with these does not target innocent people,” the Hezbollah in a significant way. law was paving the way for “a local enjoys strong support in the Lebanese ful military wing is playing a major individuals and just accept that it US Embassy in Beirut said in written It has ignited an unprecedented war of elimination” launched with Shia community. Its members include role in the Syrian conflict. cannot have a relationship with answers to questions from Reuters. World powers ready to Call for reopening probe arm Libya in anti-IS fight

after talks in Vienna. The confer- advances, will use Sirte’s port and ence was co-chaired by Kerry and his airport as a springboard to launch The North African Italian counterpart Paolo Gentiloni attacks on the continent. nation was plunged whose country has faced a major “We look forward to partner- influx of migrants from Libya flee- ing with the GNA and neighbouring into chaos after the ing violence and poverty. countries to tackle the threat posed 2011 Nato-backed The North African nation was throughout the Mediterranean and on plunged into chaos after the 2011 its land borders by criminal organ- uprising that toppled Nato-backed uprising that toppled isations engaged in all forms of and killed longtime and killed longtime dictator Muam- smuggling and trafficking, including dictator Muammar mar Gaddafi, with rival militias vying in human beings,” the world powers to control the oil-rich country. including Russia and Saudi Arabia Gaddafi, with rival Taking advantage of the mayhem, said in their statement. militias vying to the Islamic State group has carved “We are ready to respond to the itself a bastion after overrunning the Libyan government’s requests for control the oil-rich Mediterranean coastal city of Sirte -- training and equipping the Presi- country. Gaddafi’s hometown -- last year and dential Guard and vetted forces from transforming it into a training camp throughout Libya.” for militants. Libya’s leader, who was also Supporters of Moroccan Salafist prisoners protest outside the parliament in Rabat yesterday to demand A unity government was formed present at the Vienna talks, insisted the reopening of an investigation into bombings in Casablanca, 13 years ago that killed 33 people. in late March after months of negoti- his country needed assistance, not AFP ation by UN mediators in a bid to end intervention. the political chaos that has under- “We are not asking for foreign mined the fight against IS. boots on the ground, but we are But while the Government of requesting assistance with train- VIENNA: World powers said yester- National Accord has received back- ing, and lifting the arms embargo 12 missing after PKK blast in Turkey day they supported the lifting of an ing from key institutions like the on Libya,” Sarraj wrote in a column arms embargo on Libya and were central bank and the National Oil published in the British newspaper ready to supply weapons to the coun- Corporation, it still faces resistance The Telegraph yesterday. AFP was later said to have been caused by local residents were still missing. try’s new unity government to help it from rival administrations in the east Libya’s divisions have once Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) mili- It said the authorities had con- fight the growing threat posed by the and west of Libya. In a bid to stabilise again deepened in recent days, with tants loading explosives onto a truck. ducted three investigations of the Islamic State (IS) group. the country, the fledgling regime of the GNA and Haftar’s forces each Four people, all PKK militants, scene, collecting body parts from a “The Government of National Prime Minister Fayez Al Sarraj drew announcing their own plans to fight DIYARBAKIR: Turkish authorities were confirmed by the authorities to half kilometre area which were sent Accord has voiced its intention to up a list of requests for Western part- IS and “liberate” Sirte. were yesterday working to con- have been killed in the blast, which to Istanbul for analysis and DNA submit appropriate arms embargo ners to assist its forces with arms, “This is a mistake. It must be pre- firm the fates of at least 12 civilians the interior ministry said was caused identification. A correspondent who exemption requests to the UN Libya training and intelligence. vented... we can no longer accept this who are missing and feared dead by explosives detonating prematurely. visited the scene on Friday saw body Sanctions Committee to procure The demands were presented division,” said Nicola Latorre, chair- after a huge blast last week blamed But the local governor’s office parts still strewn around the area necessary lethal arms and materiel at the Vienna conference, whose man of the defence committee of the on Kurdish rebels in the southeast later confirmed media reports that and was told by villagers that up to to counter UN-designated terrorist attendees included the UN’s spe- Italian senate and an IS expert. of the country, reports and official 12 citizens were still missing after the 16 people were missing. groups and to combat (IS) through- cial envoy to Libya Martin Kobler Claudia Gazzini, a Libya analyst sources said. immense blast, which left a gigantic In a statement, the PKK also out the country. We will fully and EU foreign policy chief Feder- at the International Crisis Group, has The mainly Kurdish region of crater in the ground. said the explosion was accidental, support these efforts,” read a state- ica Mogherini. also warned that the race for Sirte is Diyarbakir was on Thursday night The Dogan news agency reported claiming the vehicle exploded when ment by US Secretary of State John Europe fears the jihadists, who pushing any hope of a political solu- rocked by a massive explosion that that some 15 tonnes of explosives had anti-PKK villagers opened fire on the Kerry and 24 other top diplomats have in recent weeks made new tion further away. was also felt in the city centre and detonated in the incident and that 13 truck and hit its fuses.

Top Kuwait court jails stateless activist

AFP

KUWAIT CITY: Kuwait’s supreme court yesterday upheld a one-year jail sentence against leading state- less rights activist Abdulhakeem Al Fadhli and five others for demonstrating. The six men were convicted of illegal assembly, defying orders and assaulting police, according to the court ruling which also states they will be deported from the Gulf state after serving the jail term. They were arrested in 2014 after taking part in a protest to demand Kuwaiti citizenship and other basic rights by stateless people, locally known as bidoons. In January 2015, a lower court jailed him to one year in prison but suspended the sentence to allow higher courts to review the case. The appeals court later confirmed the sentence which was upheld yesterday by the supreme court. Fadhli was arrested again last month while taking part in a political rally and jailed. The human rights activist has been detained sev- eral times for taking part in pro-stateless activities. Bidoons were born and raised in Kuwait and claim the right to Kuwaiti citizenship. But the government says only 34,000 of an esti- mated 110,000 stateless qualify for consideration and that the rest hold other nationalities. Dozens of bidoons and their Kuwaiti supporters were arrested for taking part in protests staged between 2011 and 2014 to press for resolving the decades-old problem. Some of the detainees were acquitted while oth- ers were jailed. External Affairs Minister of the African island nation of Comoros Abdulkarim Mohamed was quoted by Kuwaiti press yesterday as saying that his country was ready to consider taking Kuwait’s bidoons. MIDDLE EAST TUESDAY 17 MAY 2016 07

Academics mark centenary of Iraq launches operation to retake Anbar Sykes-Picot US-led operation against IS. secret deal IS uses it “to stage and prepare Rutba, located in forces for operations in... the main western Anbar battle area,” Warren told journalists Anatolia in Baghdad last week. province along “It’s not heavily defended as is the main road to Fallujah or as was Ramadi,” he said, referring to the capital of Anbar, ANKARA: Academics are Jordan, has been which has been retaken, and its sec- speaking out to mark the ond city, which IS still holds. 100th anniversary of the held by the militant Warren said the number of IS Sykes-Picot deal, signed on group since 2014. fighters in Rutba varies from around May 16, 1916, which secretly 100 up to several hundred, and that planned to divide the Mid- once the Iraqis “decide they want to dle East following World liberate Rutba, they’ll be able to.” War I. IS overran large areas north and The agreement draw- AFP west of Baghdad in June of that year, ing the borders of Iraq and and later made further advances in Syria, officially known as the Anbar, seizing Ramadi in 2015. Asia Minor Agreement, was Iraqi forces have since regained a secret deal between the BAGHDAD: Iraqi security forces and significant ground from the jihadists, United Kingdom, Ireland, allied fighters launched an operation securing the Ramadi area earlier this and France with the con- yesterday to retake the town of Rutba year and retaking the town of Heet sent of the Russian Empire from the Islamic State (IS) militant last month. as well. Negotiations for the group, the military said. But parts of Anbar — including treaty started in 1915 and Special forces, soldiers, police, Fallujah — are still under IS control, concluded in 1916. border guards and pro-government as is most of Nineveh province, to Tayyar Ari, a professor of paramilitaries are involved in the its north. And the militants are still international relations at Tur- operation to retake the Anbar prov- able to carry out bombings in govern- key’s Uludag University, said ince town, Iraq’s Joint Operations ment-held areas — something they in an interview: Command said in a statement. did more frequently prior to the June “Sykes-Picot proposed a Tanks and artillery are tak- 2014 offensive. Iraqi government forces gather on the highway between Ramadi city and Rutba as they prepare to take division of Middle East even ing part in the operation, which is As IS continues to lose ground, it before World War I ended. also backed by air support from part in an operation to retake Rutba from the Islamic State group, yesterday. has in recent weeks stepped up its The agreement dismissed Iraqi forces and the US-led coalition campaign of bombings, including the interest of the people of against IS, it said. province along the main road to Jor- group since 2014. “Rutba’s impor- support zone for them,” said Colonel three in Baghdad last Wednesday Iraq, Syria, and Lebanon, giv- Rutba, located in western Anbar dan, has been held by the jihadist tant to the enemy because it’s another Steve Warren, the spokesman for the that killed nearly 100 people. ing authority to Britain and France to lead locals who were easily manageable to govern the Middle East.” Ari, linking the troubles Iran cracks down on of today to the past, said, “As former Ottoman land was subjected to be divided into Instagram modelling tiny parts, today the area has a potential to be divided along AFP the lines of ethnic identity as well”. Zekeriya Kursun, head of the Association of Research- TEHRAN: Iran has arrested eight people for working in “un-Islamic” online ers on the Middle East and modelling networks, particularly on Instagram, the head of Tehran’s cyber- Africa (ORDAF), said, “The crimes court said on state television. agreement was aimed at cre- The arrests were made under a two-year-old sting operation named “Spi- ating spheres of influence for der II”, targeting among others models who post photos online without the Britain and France, and has a hijab covering the hair that is compulsory for women in public in Iran since lineage that dates back 300 its 1979 Islamic revolution. It identified 170 people running online Insta- years.” gram pages — 59 photographers and makeup artists, 58 models, 51 fashion “Sykes-Picot did not salon managers and designers, and two active institutions, according to a define borders, it was an statement from the special court. “We found out that about 20 percent of effort to create influence the (Iranian) Instagram feed is run by the modelling circle,” Javad Babaei which continues even today,” said on state television late on Sunday. he stressed. They have been “making and spreading immoral and un-Islamic culture Mehmet Celik, a professor and promiscuity”, he said. Babaei said it was the judiciary’s duty to “confront from Anka University of Tech- those who committed these crimes in an organised manner”. nology, said: In addition to the eight arrests, criminal cases have been opened against “The reasons behind the 21 other people, he said. The sting operation has homed in on a database interests of Britain and France of over 300 popular Iranian Instagram accounts and connected accounts, today are the same as before. Babaei said. His comments followed a live “educational court session” on They are planning to remake Sunday at which a former model said she had been earning money through the region in league with the the popular photosharing mobile application Instagram. US, Russia, Iran, and Israel.” The average monthly income for a successful model is 100m rials ($3,330), the woman, named as Elham Arab by the judiciary-linked website Mizan Online, told Tehran’s prosecutor.

Rafsanjani’s daughter meets Bahais, sparks controversy in Iran

AFP

TEHRAN: A meeting between ex-president Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani’s daughter and female leaders of the Bahai community, regarded as “heretics” in the Islamic republic, has sparked controversy in Iran. Faezeh Hashemi recently met Fariba Kamalabadi, one of the leaders of the Bahai community who had been allowed out of prison on a five-day break, according to Iranian media. A photo of the meeting was published on social media in which Faezeh, wearing Islamic veil, is sitting next to Kamalabadi and other Bahai women, all without the hijab. Kamalabadi was arrested eight years ago with six other leaders of the Bahai community and sentenced to 20 years in prison, for charges including espionage. Outraged conservatives have denounced Hashemi’s meeting and criticised the moderate former president Rafsanjani, along with some reformists in Iranian politics. Rafsanjani himself has acknowledged his daughter had “made a mistake that needs to be corrected”, accord- ing to local media. “The Bahai sect was created by the colonialists,” he said. “This is a deviant sect... that we dis- avow and have always done.” But Faezeh said in an interview with Euronews Per- sian television that she had only visited “a friend”. “It was a normal and harmless visit. I just visited a friend, that’s all,” she said. Faezeh first met Kamalabadi when she herself was in jail in 2012 on charges of “propaganda against the regime”. But Grand Ayatollah Nasser Makarem Shirazi said yesterday she should face prosecution, while mer- chants of the Grand Bazaar, a pillar of the regime, have launched a petition demanding the Tehran prosecutor take action, according to Iranian media. The controversy comes as Washington on Saturday called on Tehran to release the seven leaders of the Bahai minority faith. 08 TUESDAY 17 MAY 2016 ASIA

Statue on the move Ex-cop charged South Korea, in grisly Thai killing linked to US and Japan to mass grave hold joint drill AFP BANGKOK: A former policeman in Thailand has been charged with murdering a woman whose fate cope with North Korea’s increasing led to the discovery of a suspected nuclear and missile threats. It was mass grave, police said Monday. The drills, set for the first such agreement among the Reports about a large burial around June 28, three countries. An international site in the northeast, where crim- standoff over North Korea has inal gangs may have dumped will be held on the recently deepened after Pyongyang bodies for years, have swirled in sidelines of biennial carried out its fourth nuclear test in the local media in recent weeks. multinational naval January and a long-range rocket The investigation began launch in February. when the daughter of a woman exercises scheduled The rocket launch — held a month who was strangled in June 2014 for waters off Hawaii after Pyongyang’s fourth nuclear took reporters to a remote jungle test and seen as a disguised ballis- area where her mother’s burned from June to August. tic missile test — drew widespread corpse was first discovered. She condemnation and prompted the UN said she wanted to highlight what Security Council to slap its toughest Workers move a rhino sculpture on a street in Shanghai, China yesterday. she described as a lack of police sanctions ever on North Korea. interest in investigating the killing. Agencies Existing UN resolutions forbid During the visit reporters the North from the use of any bal- found bones that looked human. listic missile-related technology. Subsequent police investigations Pyongyang responded by have uncovered at least nine pos- SEOUL: South Korea, the United States launching a series of short-range sible sites containing bones, some and Japan will hold their first joint mil- missiles off its east coast and try- Taiwan fraud suspects ‘confess’ of them certified as human, while itary training next month focused on ing — although unsuccessfully — to 41 people with missing relatives cooperating to detect signs of missile test-fire a powerful, new medium- have come forward to offer DNA launches from North Korea and trace range missile in April. AFP Taiwan’s new president Tsai Ing- confessed to committing fraud and samples. missile trajectories, a Seoul defence The North has recently claimed wen, who takes office on Friday and have been detained according to law,” At a press conference in the official said yesterday. a series of major technical break- has a far more sceptical approach to mainland police said, according to northeastern city of Khon Kaen, The drills, set for around June 28, throughs in developing what it sees relations with Beijing than her China- the official Xinhua news agency. officers Monday announced two will be held on the sidelines of biennial as the ultimate goal of its nuclear TAIPEI: A group of Taiwanese fraud friendly predecessor did. But Taiwan insisted the case was people including a former police- multinational naval exercises sched- drive: an intercontinental ballis- suspects deported from Malaysia to Taiwan has lodged formal still under investigation. man had been charged with the uled for waters off Hawaii from June tic missile capable of delivering a China have confessed and will be complaints with China over the “Both sides are working together,” June 2014 murder. to August, which the three countries nuclear warhead to the US mainland. tried on the mainland, according to deportations and has insisted its Chen Wen-chi, who heads cross- “We know two people were regularly attend, the official said. Washington regularly holds Chinese authorities, despite an angry nationals face investigation and trial strait legal affairs at the Ministry of involved. One was Pramote, a The trilateral drills will involve military drills with South Korea Taipei demanding they face justice on the island. Justice, told. Chen, who led a dele- former policeman and one was a Aegis-equipped ships from the three and Japan — which together host at home. Beijing says it wants to try the gation to meet mainland police and suspect we have here today (called) countries, but they will not involve about 80,000 American troops — The expulsion of the 32 suspects suspects deported from Malaysia on discuss the case over the weekend, Boonna,” said Police Major General missile-interception training, the and shares intelligence with them from Malaysia in April came after the mainland because they were part said the location for the suspects’ trial Yanyong Vetkosol. official said. The three countries on a bilateral level. But Seoul and another group of Taiwanese fraud of a telecom fraud ring that targeted would be “negotiated at a later time”. Boonna admitted being have held joint search-and-rescue Tokyo don’t, largely a result of lin- suspects were sent to China from Chinese victims. China’s Ministry of The Xinhua report quoted a involved in the woman’s killing, drills in the past. gering public resentments in South Kenya, a move described by Taiwan Public Security said they will undergo 72-year-old cancer patient who saying she had a dispute with the The training follows a 2014 intel- Korea against Japan over its 1910- as “abduction”. The deportations proceedings under the “mainland was tricked into depositing two mil- former police officer about money. ligence-gathering pact among the 1945 colonial rule of the Korean are seen by observers as a means judiciary”. lion yuan ($152,835) into a “safety It is common practice in Thailand three countries, designed to better Peninsula. of exerting pressure on self-ruling “The 32 Taiwanese suspects account” as part of the fraud scheme. for suspects who admit their guilt to be presented to the media. Investigators added that Pramote is already serving jail time for another murder. Pavement glued down in Hong Kong for China official visit Police have been at pains to distance themselves from any sug- gestion their officers may be linked to killings or to a mass grave site. AFP the semi-autonomous city where a see him meet pro-democracy legis- July 1 political rally where residents the past,” said a police source. “Activ- The country’s police have long fledgling independence movement lators—is seen as an attempt to ease air their grievances against the gov- ists have become more violent.” had a reputation for corruption, in recent months has angered China. tensions and gauge the political tem- ernment. “Zhang Dejiang is coming Running battles with police in with many Thais likening them to a HONG KONG: Paving stones in cen- Zhang Dejiang, who chairs China’s perature. But some activists have here to understand the situation in February, which included “localist” mafia in uniform. Thailand’s junta tral Hong Kong have been glued down communist-controlled legislature, voiced fury over the ensuing security Hong Kong but now his eyesight will protesters in favour of more autonomy chief, a former head of the army, to prevent protesters using them as will speak at an economic confer- clampdown, with water-filled plastic be completely blocked.” for Hong Kong, saw demonstrators dig has vowed to clean up the police missiles, as authorities roll out elab- ence on Wednesday, prompting Hong barricades and metal fencing cordon- The group says activists will up bricks from the street and throw and has transferred or sacked a orate security measures ahead of a Kong authorities to pour glue into the ing off central roads and flyovers. “proactively get close to the con- them at officers. A Hong Kong man number of high-profile officers. high-level Chinese visit that could cracks between paving stones around “Keeping protesters away is... vention centre” despite a no-protest linked to the city’s pro-democracy Police in Khon Kaen said more stoke resentment over mainland rule. the harbourfront convention centre ridiculous. It makes you feel like you security zone set up by police. opposition was also arrested in China time was needed to investigate the The measures, which include hosting the event. Zhang is the most are in North Korea,” said Sham Tsz- Police have termed the security on Sunday over a suspected plot to potential mass grave and discover barricades in central Hong Kong, senior official to visit Hong Kong in kit of Civil Human Rights Front, which moves “counter-terrorism measures”. use a drone to disrupt Zhang’s visit, whether the remains are from come as Beijing tightens its grip on four years. His trip—which will also organises Hong Kong’s major annual “The security threat is higher than according to Chinese state media. missing people.

Eight dead in Sri Lanka floods; many homeless

AFP

COLOMBO: Floods and land- slides in Sri Lanka have killed at least eight people, including a 10-month-old baby, and forced tens of thousands more to flee their homes, officials said yesterday. Bangladeshi security personnel escort Bangladesh Nationalist Party joint secretary-general The government has deployed troops to evacuate people living Aslam Chowdhury (centre) towards court following his arrest in Dhaka yesterday. on slopes or in flood-hit areas and the navy is helping clear canals in Colombo to stop low-lying areas Bangladesh opposition official including the parliament complex from flooding. “We have placed troops at arrested over Israel meeting the disposal of the authorities to carry out rescue operations as AFP general Aslam Chowdhury was adviser during a “personal busi- well as relief work,” Defence Sec- arrested on Sunday after local ness trip” to India. retary Karunasena Hettiarachchi media reported that he had met Bangladesh has no diplomatic told reporters. Disaster manage- an Israeli government adviser in ties with Israel and Bangladeshis ment centre spokesman Pradeep DHAKA: Bangladesh police have India in March. are banned from travelling to the Kodippili said nearly 5,000 fam- arrested a senior official from “We’ve arrested Chowdhury country. ilies living in flooded areas had the main opposition party and for allegedly plotting conspira- The arrest is the latest against been moved to relief centres. accused him of plotting against cies against the government by the BNP. Party supremo and Thousands more have left the state following his meeting personally meeting an Israeli pol- former prime minister Khaleda flooded homes to move in with with an Israeli political adviser, itician abroad,” detective police Zia was last week charged with friends and relatives. an official said yesterday. commissioner Abdul Baten told masterminding arson attacks The official toll of eight could Prime Minister Sheikh Hasi- reporters. Dhaka police spokes- during anti-government protests rise, with some areas still inacces- na’s government is stepping man Maruf Hossain Sorder said last year, the latest in a string of sible after fallen trees and power up a crackdown on political officers were preparing to file a charges which she says are polit- lines blocked roads. opponents in Muslim-majority criminal case against him. ically motivated. At least three flights were Bangladesh, which is also reeling Chowdhury, a successful Bangladesh has been hit by diverted from the main airport in from a wave of killings blamed businessman from the southern a political crisis since the BNP Colombo on Monday and many on Islamists. city of Chittagong, has denied and other opposition parties schools in the capital remained Bangladesh National- plotting against the govern- boycotted the general election closed. ist Party (BNP) joint secretary ment, telling reporters he met the in 2014. ASIA / PHILIPPINES TUESDAY 17 MAY 2016 09 Duterte vows to reimpose death penalty

wanted them hanged twice. “After you are hanged first, there will be Communist leader The Philippine another ceremony for the second Sison ‘welcome’ president-elect time until the head is completely severed from the body. I like that said he would because I am mad,” he said. to return home ask Congress to Commission on Human Rights Chairman Chito Gascon said his reintroduce capital agency opposes the death penalty AFP punishment for and would block any attempt to reimpose it, adding that the consti- a wide range of tution forbids cruel and degrading DAVAO: The leader of the Philip- crimes, including punishments like hanging. pines’ communist insurgency will be “In a country where the rule welcome to return home after nearly drug trafficking, rape, of law has so many loopholes and three decades in exile and participate murder, robbery problems, what will happen is the in peace talks, president-elect Rodrigo and kidnapping-for- possibility of a mistaken conviction,” Duterte has said. Gascon said by telephone. Communist Party of the Phil- ransom. The centrepiece of Duterte’s ippines founder Jose Maria Sison stunningly successful election cam- wrote in a Facebook post last week paign was a pledge to end crime he hoped to come home follow- within three to six months of being ing the landslide May 9 election AFP & AP elected. Duterte vowed during the win of Duterte, with whom he has campaign to kill tens of thousands maintained ties while living in the criminals, outraging his critics but Netherlands. hypnotising tens of millions of Fil- “I do not begrudge the NPAs DAVAO: Philippine president-elect ipinos fed up with rampant crime (communist New People’s Army) Rodrigo Duterte vowed yesterday and graft. in looking for firearms. But when I to introduce executions by hanging He said on one occasion that reach my oath-taking... they must as part of a ruthless law-and-order 100,000 people would die, and so realise I am the government and I crackdown that would also include many bodies would be dumped in am the enemy but I offer my hand in ordering military snipers to kill sus- Manila Bay that the fish would grow peace and we can talk,” he said at a pected criminals. fat from feeding on them. press conference yesterday. In back-to-back press confer- In an initial press conference late Duterte said late on Sunday that Philippine president-elect Rodrigo Duterte gestures during a press conference after almost a week of isolation ences since his landslide victory on Sunday, Duterte said his “shoot- Sison’s return to the Philippines in May 9 elections, the tough-talk- to-kill” orders would be given for since claiming victory in the presidential election in Davao City, in the southern island of Mindanao, yesterday. would be important in helping to ing mayor of southern Davao city those involved in organised crim- end the rebellion. The insurgency said security forces would be given inals or who resisted arrest. “If you was one of Asia’s longest and has “shoot-to-kill” orders and that citi- resist, show violent resistance, my claimed an estimated 30,000 lives zens would learn to fear the law. order to police (will be) to shoot President-elect to offer Cabinet since the 1960s. “Those who destroy the lives to kill. Shoot to kill for organised “Yes, he is welcome. I am happy of our children will be destroyed,” crime,” he said. with the statement that he is com- Duterte said in wide-ranging Duterte said the military as posts to communist rebels ing home. I would very much want comments to reporters in Davao yes- well as the police would be used in to talk to him about resolving the terday afternoon as he outlined on his war on crime. “I need military insurgency problem,” Duterte told his war on crime once he is sworn officers who are sharp-shooters and reporters in the southern city of into office on June 30. “Those who snipers. It’s true. If you (criminals) Agencies and use the money to buy medical beheadings. Davao where he has served as mayor kill my country will be killed. Simple fight, I will have a sniper shoot you,” equipment for military and police Army Lt. Gen. Ricardo Visaya, for most of the past two decades. as that. No middle ground. No apol- he said. personnel. “When people are hungry whom Duterte is considering to head Sison, now 77, fled to Europe ogies. No excuses.” On his ban on children walking and jobless ...it would be an obscene the military, said he met over the soon after peace talks failed in Duterte also vowed to roll out alone late at night, Duterte warned MANILA: Presumptive Philippine thing” to have the luxury vessel lying weekend with the mayor, who told 1987. The communists armed Davao law-and-order measures on the parents of repeat offenders President-elect Rodrigo Duterte said unused, he said. him he wanted troops to finish off the wing, the NPA, is believed to have a nationwide basis, including a 2am would be arrested and thrown into yesterday that he will offer Cabinet TV network ABS-CBN also quoted Abu Sayyaf within the president’s six- fewer than 4,000 soldiers, down curfew on drinking in public places jail for “abandonment”. posts to communist rebels, and move him as telling reporters in Davao that year term and to back up the police in from a peak of 26,000 in the and a ban on children walking on the The current president, Benigno to amend the constitution to give more he plans to ban the use of luxury cars going after drug syndicates. 1980s. However it retains support streets alone late at night. Smoking Aquino, warned repeatedly during power to the provinces, in some of his among his Cabinet members and will After the news conference, Duterte among the deeply poor in the rural in restaurants and hotels will also the election campaign that Duterte first policy pronouncements since use his personal pickup truck as his met with the ambassadors of China, Philippines. be banned. was a dictator in the making and winning last week’s election based official presidential vehicle. Japan and Israel. Chinese Ambassador Incumbent President Benigno Duterte said a central part of his would bring terror to the nation. on an unofficial count. Duterte reiterated his vow to con- Zhao Jianhua gave him a book of writ- Aquino revived peace talks soon war on crime would be to bring back However his preferred successor, Duterte said he would likely offer trol illegal drugs and crime, even if ings by Chinese President Xi Jinping. after taking office in 2010 but the death penalty, which was abol- Mar Roxas, an establishment pol- the Cabinet posts of environment and it means losing the presidency or his Duterte said he wanted friendly shelved them in 2013, accusing the ished in 2006 under then-president itician who promised to continue natural resources, agrarian reform, life. “Stop messing with me, because I relations with China and confirmed rebels of insincerity in efforts to Gloria Arroyo. Aquino’s slow but steady macroeco- social welfare, and labor to the commu- have a sacred promise to save the next he was open to direct talks over a ter- achieve a political settlement. Duterte said he would ask nomic reforms, ended in a distant nist rebels. “They are the most vigilant generation from the evil of drugs,” he ritorial row that has badly damaged The talks got bogged down Congress to reintroduce capi- second place. group in the Philippines about labor told critics. bilateral ties. after the communists demanded tal punishment for a wide range Duterte has been accused of run- so they would get it,” Duterte said. The Duterte also said he will launch Duterte, who will be sworn into the release of scores of their jailed of crimes, including drug traffick- ning vigilante death squads during move would likely be strongly opposed a major military offensive to destroy office on June 30, said he planned to comrades whom they described ing, rape, murder, robbery and his more than two decades as mayor by big business and industry. Abu Sayyaf extremists on southern continue raising the issue in multi- as “political prisoners”, which the kidnapping-for-ransom. of Davao, a city of about two million Duterte also plans to switch to a Jolo Island. He also promised to cut lateral environments. But he also Aquino government rejected. He said he preferred death by people that he says he has turned federal form of government, aiming government red tape and remove repeated a campaign pledge to hold Duterte, who was Sison’s student hanging to a firing squad because into one of the nations safest. to give more power and resources to corrupt officials. Duterte said “con- direct talks with China, if other at a Manila university in the 1960s, he did not want to waste bullets, Rights groups say the squads — regions, including the country’s south, taminated” police generals facing negotiations failed. “If the ship of said he was even willing to com- and because he believed snapping made up of police, hired assassins where Davao city is located. Such a corruption cases should “get out now” negotiation is in still waters and ply with the communists’ demand to the spine with a noose was more and ex-communist rebels — have change would require an amendment before he assumes office. If not, they there’s no wind to push the sail, I release their captured members. “If I humane. killed more than 1,000 people. to the constitution. should prepare to be sent to invade the might just decide to talk bilaterally am satisfied we are dealing in good For people convicted of two They say children and petty crim- In a populist move, Duterte said Abu Sayyaf militants, who have been with China,” Duterte said. faith, I will consider releasing all polit- major crimes, Duterte said he inals were among the victims. he would sell the presidential yacht blamed for multiple kidnappings and ical prisoners,” he said.

Nepal arrests Briton Warship docks at Port of Manila over alleged Abu Sayyaf sets June 13 anti-charter protest deadline to kill hostage KATHMANDU: Nepal arrested a British tourist for allegedly joining a protest yesterday against the coun- Bloomberg has hampered development in a try’s new constitution, police said, region that holds half of the coun- days after a Canadian’s visa was try’s mineral reserves. revoked over his political tweets. The military hasn’t confirmed Hundreds of demonstrators MANILA: The Philippine terror the latest video, military spokes- representing ethnic minorities group Abu Sayyaf has threatened to man Brigadier General Restituto have been protesting in Kath- execute one of two foreign hostages Padilla told reporters in Manila Mon- mandu since Sunday, calling for on June 13 unless a ransom worth day. Efforts to rescue the remaining changes to the Himalayan nation’s 600m pesos ($13m) is paid. hostages continue, he said. divisive new charter which Canadian Robert Hall and President-elect Rodrigo they say leaves them politically Norwegian Kjartan Sekkings- Duterte, who hails from Mindanao marginalised. tad have been held by Abu Sayyaf and has served more than two dec- “We have arrested a British since September, when they were ades as mayor of Davao City, has man for taking part in today’s anti- abducted from a luxury resort in pledged to revive peace talks after government protest,” Prazit KC of the Mindanao region managed he takes office on June 30. the city police said. The officer by Sekkingstad. Last month Abu Congress failed to pass a peace said the 45-year-old was seen at Sayyaf militants beheaded John deal signed by outgoing President the protest sporting a bandana Ridsdel, another Canadian kid- Benigno Aquino with the leading inscribed with an anti-govern- napped in the same raid. separatist group that would have ment slogan. “He will be handed “I appeal to my government granted more autonomy to the over to officials from his embassy and the Philippine government, as region in return for peace. and the immigration department I have appealed before, for help,” Implementing a peace plan will review his case tomorrow,” said Hall in a new video released would add to pressure on Abu he said. on May 13 and posted on SITE, a Sayyaf to end its campaign. The Earlier this month Canadian US research group that tracks peace pact reached with the main software developer Robert Penner jihadist sites. militant group provides a road was ordered to leave Nepal over A four-decade Muslim insur- map for a new autonomous entity tweets deemed to “incite conflict”. gency in the southern island of called Bangsamoro, whose struc- The immigration department Mindanao has left as many as ture would be defined by Congress. Filipino navy personnel stand guard as warship BRP Tarlac (LD-601) docks at Port of Manila, Philippines, said Penner had violated the terms 200,000 people dead. Under the deal the Moro Islamic of his visa by commenting on the yesterday. According to Navy spokesman Captain Lued Lincuna, the Indonesian-made BRP Tarlac Kidnappers in the region, Liberation Front must abandon its country’s “internal matters” and (LD-601) is the Philippine Navy’s first Strategic Sealift Vessel (SSV). The Philippines has an ongoing including Abu Sayyaf, often take pursuit of a separate state in return gave him two days to leave the conflict with China over territories in the South China Sea. hostages for ransom to finance for more power, control of natural country. their operations. The violence resources and territory. 10 TUESDAY 17 MAY 2016 VIEWS

ESTABLISHED IN 1996

CHAIRMAN SHEIKH THANI BIN ABDULLAH AL THANI

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF DR. KHALID BIN MUBARAK AL-SHAFI [email protected]

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DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR HUSSAIN AHMAD [email protected]

EDITORIAL One more label There’s no rule book for s the US election campaign reaches boiling point, Trump’s relations with women are in the spotlight. His brush with the opposite sex started early in his tumultuous dash to the White House, when he ending corruption made a pejorative reference to Fox News presenter AMegyn Kelly. Trump was in hot water for quite some time after but a list of London properties, and Bendukidze and Saakashvili were the incident and went on the defensive, virtually denying that he According to the meant what was attributed to him. the names of beneficiary owners driven out of office. Georgia is now either won’t mean anything to any- the cleanest country in the former A fabulous controversy courter that Trump is, the real estate IMF, corruption one or will belong to people with costs the world $1.5 Soviet bloc, but no other nation tycoon has lately been in the news for his past with women legitimate businesses. -- including post-revolutionary colleagues and those he had to otherwise deal with. It is not Asset recovery is tricky: For trillion to $2 trillion Ukraine -- has had the courage surprising that the maverick Republican has been captured in starters, the owners must be sen- a year, or 2 percent to adopt this draconian approach. the crosshairs of a system that is unforgiving of even the slightest tenced by a court of law. In corrupt of global economic The economist Hernando De departure from norms. This is not to say that the American system countries, however, courts are Soto regarded excessive bureauc- among the most rotten institu- output, mainly racy as the root cause of corruption harbours the most upright people. A number of scandals starting tions. The European Union has by undermining in the developing world. In post- from Bill Clinton’s fling with White House intern Monica Lewinsky been forced to remove associates of incentives for Soviet states, some of the world’s that saw him virtually impeached, to By Leonid Bershidsky former Ukrainian President Viktor most corrupt, the bureaucracy is the involvement of former CIA director Bloomberg Yanukovych from its sanctions lists taxpayers to share mostly inherited from a time when David Petraeus with a woman, have seen after the Ukrainian justice system their incomes with cheating the state was a national Revelations the press go up in arms. Revelations failed to nab them. governments, pastime. It has been strengthened about a about Donald Trump’s treatment of The IMF’s “mitigating strate- and streamlined to keep out the ritish Prime Minis- gies” for corruption also centre on increasing costs unconnected. So in these countries, controversial women from decades ago hold up his ter David Cameron’s transparency, enhancing the rule of and undermining corruption is both a traditional part past will add record to scrutiny. More details likely to anti-corruption sum- law, building institutions and trying of the social fabric and a main- emerge could help party rivals queer the mit coincided with the patiently to change social norms the quality of stay of the regime. The only way to the turmoil pitch for his selection as the Republican release of an Interna- in corrupt societies. These are all public spending, to beat it is to take the reins out of of Donald nominee. With the cat out of the bag Btional Monetary Fund staff paper well-known recommendations that and stifling private the bureaucrats’ hands, depriving on Trump’s unwelcome advances and that explains why corruption is bad some of the most corrupt regimes in them of any opportunity to col- Trump’s for economies and suggests ways to the world have mockingly applied. investment and lect a rent. multiple entanglements with women, the campaign. eradicate it. But neither these rec- Russia has a transparent, electronic productivity. The The IMF paper contains exactly focus for the next few days falls on a side ommendations nor those expressed government procurement system losses mostly occur three paragraphs about eliminat- of his that is more controversial than at the forum will do much to fix that would be the envy of many a ing excessive regulation, but one everything put together till now. the developing world’s problems. country if the “right” companies in the countries of these stresses the importance However, there are attenuating factors for Trump. He has That would require much more than weren’t winning all the tenders, that can least afford of technology (electronic procure- denied some incidents attributed to him. Though he is known better anti-graft laws and dogged anyway. Ukraine has not one but them. ment again), and another warns to have made remarks about the female form and talked enforcement. three bodies charged with fighting that deregulation can “pose its At the forum, much was made graft -- the National Anti-Corrup- own risks, particularly where the disparagingly about women including former presidential of international efforts to recover tion bureau, the National Agency institutional framework is under- contender Carly Fiorina, some have come up to say that he stolen wealth, and of transparency for Corruption Prevention and the not of the kind recommended at developed.” These risks, according recognised talent and promoted their careers. in general. Cameron hopes to erase Specialized Anti-Corruption Prose- international conferences or in to the paper, are associated with the Trump’s critics have labelled him a misogynist and the London’s reputation as a haven for cutor’s Office, but it’s still so corrupt IMF papers. “Liberalization and monopolies created by the fast post- impression gained in the early stages of the campaign had stuck corrupt fortunes. He wants all for- that the IMF is withholding the lat- deregulation helped destroy cor- Soviet privatisation. The oligarchs hitherto. His behaviour has also been described as genteel at eign companies that own real estate est tranche of its bailout package. ruption, and the destruction of who put together these conglomer- in Britain to declare their assets in Kakha Bendukidze, whose corruption, in turn, helped liber- ates are pretty good at government times and aggressive at others. The belligerent Trump’s conduct at a public register. I doubt that’ll be reforms took the nation of Georgia alization and deregulation,” was capture. Bendukidze’s approach to his military school has been described in unflattering terms. That very useful: In most cases, such dec- from the 124th place in Transpar- how he described the process. them was “play by the new rules might be dismissed as an adolescent indiscretion. larations won’t contain anything ency International’s corruption Bendukidze, who paid out mil- or rot in jail,” but that can’t be part His alleged cavorting with Miss Universe contestants shows perceptions index in 2003 to 50th lions of dollars in bribes while of any “institutional framework.” him in a poor light and reflects an immaturity unbecoming of place today, recalled in an inter- building a huge fortune in Russia, Eradicating corruption in someone who is aiming to occupy the most powerful office in view with Ukrainian journalist knew all the common schemes and countries where it is the way of the world. With the revelations, Trump’s reputation has gone Asset recovery is Vladimir Fedorin that he once many of the players when Presi- life can’t be achieved by following attended a RAND Corporation- dent Mikheil Saakashvili of Georgia a rule book. Bendukidze’s method south. His unpopularity with women, already an exponentially tricky: For starters, organized US-Russian business appointed him minister for eco- probably isn’t the only possible one, rising curve, is going to reach dizzying heights. The intransigent the owners must forum, attended by Donald Rums- nomic reform in 2004. Saakashvili but no useful recipe can be based Republican is going to pay a high price for another addition to his feld and Paul O’Neil, both of whom had the biggest grafters jailed with- solely on recommendations from list of weaknesses. be sentenced by had leading roles in George W out much due process and forced law-abiding, orderly Western soci- a court of law. In Bush’s administration. others to hand most of their fortunes eties: Post-Communist states, and “Once a Russian participant to the state. The process wasn’t probably many in Africa and Asia, corrupt countries, was complaining about corrup- grounded in legality by Western have deep traditions of subvert- however, courts are tion. So Rumsfeld said to that: ‘I standards but, coupled with Bend- ing and mocking the systems and among the most think there’s a simple way to com- ukidze’s reductionist approach to institutions of power. bat corruption -- you need to pass government, it worked remarkably According to the IMF, corrup- Quote of the day rotten institutions. a law to ban corruption.’ All the well. Bendukidze’s theory was that tion costs the world $1.5 trillion to The European Union Russian participants were rolling to remove corruption, a govern- $2 trillion a year, or 2 percent of around laughing, and the Amer- ment had to get rid of departments global economic output, mainly by The world is more has been forced to interconnected than ever icans were nodding their heads that it knew it could do without and undermining incentives for tax- remove associates earnestly: “Yes, yes.’ “ reduce contact between citizens payers to share their incomes with before and it is becoming It may not have happened and government to a minimum. governments, increasing costs and more connected every of former Ukrainian quite like that, but Bendukidze, Thus, he closed down Georgia’s undermining the quality of pub- day. Building walls won’t President Viktor known for his sharp wit, seized antitrust committee, which, he lic spending, and stifling private on an important issue: Western said, was doing little except taking investment and productivity. The change things. Yanukovych from experts stress the institutional, bribes, and disbanded the notori- losses mostly occur in the coun- its sanctions lists legal and enforcement side, as if ously venal traffic police. No one tries that can least afford them. after the Ukrainian unaware that laws can be ignored, missed either, and monopoliza- The West cannot do much to help, Barack Obama institutions subverted and enforc- tion or traffic chaos did not ensue. either in terms of enforcement or US President justice system failed ers can become the problem rather Georgian culture changed quickly, by offering advice. It’s up to each to nab them. than the solution. and the country didn’t slip in the corrupt nation to rip up its bureauc- Bendukidze’s own solution was Transparency rankings even after racy and chase away its architects.

EDITORIAL TEL: 44557741 / 44557743 FAX: 44557746 / 44557758 P. O. BOX: 3488, DOHA, QATAR E-MAIL: [email protected] ADVERTISING TEL: 44557837 / 780 FAX: 44557870 CLASSIFIED: 44557857 E-MAIL: [email protected] SUBSCRIPTION / HOME DELIVERY TEL: 44557809 /839 FAX: 44557819 E-MAIL: [email protected] OPINION TUESDAY 17 MAY 2016 11 Turkish NGOs say Istanbul summit must deliver

By Humeyra Atilgan Buyukovali Anatolia

s the first-ever international humanitarian summit is only a week away, Turkey’s leading aid organisations are focusing on Athe need to “localise aid” with “stronger local actors”. As Istanbul gets ready to host the World Humanitarian Summit between May 23-24, Anadolu Agency spoke to domestic NGOs who say empowering local communities is the best way to cope with disasters. Head of the Turkish Red Crescent, Kerem Kinik, says if local humanitarian aid groups are not strengthened “com- munities will be more open to disasters”. “Aid made by larger international organisations in local places is not sus- tainable and results in very high costs.” Kinik says reform of the humanitar- ian aid system is needed, describing it as “reshaping aid”. “A draft final report to be shared by the UN at the end of the summit is almost ready,” Kinik says. “We do not expect a radical change, but it is a significant sum- mit which will only focus on humanitarian issues. It will also be an opportunity to tell the world Turkey’s way of humani- tarian aid.” The summit will feature a number of high-level leaders’ round-table talks, as well as briefings, seminars, workshops, panel discussions and an exhibition fair. During two days, around 5,000 partic- ipants – global leaders from government, business, aid organisations, affected com- munities, faith-based organisations, messages that came out of the consulta- war-related crises, Aydin says the classic local actors. operates in over 140 countries – has car- international and national NGOs, and tion phase was the need to localize aid.” UN methods of providing humanitarian The second initiative is a ‘Charter for ried out numerous aid work in the field. academia – will meet. She says in the current humanitarian aid “are not helping anymore”. Change’, which is a set of commitments The foundation has saved over 2,000 Each organisation is expected to bring system, a great majority of global funding “The UN is also looking for a solution put together and endorsed by 23 inter- civilians, including journalists and aid vol- its own agenda to the world summit. Among stays with global actors “that are remotely to those long-lasting crises [...] What we national NGOs. Signatories commit to unteers, from prisons in Syria since the these are Turkey’s Humanitarian Relief positioned from affected people”. expect out of the summit are concrete steps passing larger portions of aid funding to conflict in that country started, Aydin says. Foundation (IHH) and the Support To Life Complaining that a significant por- towards overcoming such … problems.” local partners, supporting and building “Humanitarian diplomacy” is what aid agency. tion of global humanitarian funding is Karaosmanoglu admits there are seri- their capacity, and establishing a more the foundation will also be focusing on “Localization of humanitarian assist- used “to keep the heavy machinery of ous challenges to reforming aid delivery: equal partnership in joint response to during the summit. ance” is of top priority for these two groups the UN running,” she says: “It is strik- “Given the power dynamics in the humanitarian crises. “None of the aid organisations can which have been actively involved in the ing to see that less than two percent of humanitarian aid structure as it currently Karaosmanoglu also says one of their be indifferent to those innocent people preparatory phases leading up to the the total funding goes to local actors that stands, it will not be easy to make signif- aims at the summit is “to show the power being kept in prisons,” he said, “especially summit, starting with the first regional are in direct contact with the affected icant changes. But this is a slow process and impact of local actors in Turkey in the … aid volunteers.” consultation in June 2014 in Abidjan, Ivory populations. and the seeds for that change are being provision of humanitarian assistance to “By international agreements, there Coast. Sema Genel Karaosmanoglu, exec- “For humanitarian aid to be effective, sown.” nearly three million Syrian refugees that should be no hindrance to them to deliver utive director of Support To Life, says: we need to see more resources channelled Her association has had the chance are in need of food, shelter, health care, aid to the needy.” “One of the strongest and most important to local actors who are known to provide to contribute to many of the themes and and education”. Although he is not very hopeful about the most effective aid.” discussions on the effectiveness of human- “The amount of support provided by a solution to the Syrian crisis, he says: “I IHH Deputy Chairman Durmus Aydin, itarian aid and “how they can reform the local actors in Turkey to refugees is not hope that the summit at least can be a also the summit’s coordinator, agrees, system in order to better reach out to the visible in the current humanitarian sys- step towards making vulnerable people saying: millions of affected people that need tem,” she adds. there sheltered.” We do not expect a radical change, “It is only when local aid organisa- assistance”. “Our goal is to visualize on a map the Reiterating that some concrete sugges- but it is a significant summit which tions grow stronger that the continuity She talks about two concrete initia- many diverse interventions made by a tions and solutions have been discussed of humanitarian aid is ensured.” tives which NGOs see as important steps. diverse set of local actors, emphasizing prior to the summit, he says: will only focus on humanitarian He says during humanitarian crises in One is the launching of a global net- the need for more resources to be chan- “The upcoming event is a historic one. issues. It will also be an opportunity developing countries, it is highly difficult work of local actors (NEAR – Network nelled to these actors.” Now, what is significant is that the UN to tell the world Turkey’s way of to get over problems quickly “as both the of Empowered Aid Response) who have Aydin from the IHH also points to the should support and practice [resolutions]. states and national NGOs are not strong met each other throughout preparatory efforts made for Syrian refugees. If not, all the work and effort going on for humanitarian aid. enough”. Pointing out that millions of consultations and have a stronger voice IHH – one of Turkey’s first interna- two years on how to achieve more effec- people are displaced every year due to in changing conditions and resources for tional aid organisations, which currently tive humanitarian aid will be wasted. Trump’s followers are on a losing mission

US President Barack Obama’s false- enabling Trump or simply hoping for dropped 15 points to 72 percent. Pop- each cringe-worthy episode. hoods (“If you like your doctor ...”) are a close, exciting race) act as though ulation changes since 2012 may have The former’s new perspective on now so willing to disregard evidence Trump’s current level of support is dropped the white share another 2 their fellow Republicans provides of his monumental, almost pathetic his floor. to 4 points. newfound perspective and maturity, character flaws. Perhaps, but it is equally possible “So Trump starts off with the chal- allowing them to step outside the right- Can someone as rich and famous it’s his ceiling and things get worse from lenge that any Republican would have, wing echo chamber and ignore, maybe be so needy after decades in the public here on out as he gets cornered on one but the real-estate mogul’s political permanently, talk show hosts’ inani- eye -- and so determined to maintain lie after another. He will be caught problems with certain voter groups ties. One senses it is more likely after his facade of lies to protect his frail unprepared on a bevy of issues and aggravate the situation.” six more months of this that Trump ego? It seems so. will time and again resort to threats Consider, then, the dilemma the will have succeeded in shredding the As we see Trump blunder his way and outbursts when critics do not Republicans who have tied them- GOP “brand” and widening the chasm through the early days of his general accede to his will. selves to his mast are in. They are between the two sides of the party to By Jennifer Rubin election campaign, it is evident that Moreover, it is hard to imagine stuck defending his policy gyrations such an extent that the conservative The Washington Post no reversal (on his tax plan or disclo- already Democratic-leaning groups (many of which will repudiate con- movement will require a new party Trump has become sure of his own taxes, for example), (eg, women, young voters, minori- servatives’ views that they’ve clung or a Republican Party with an entire the ultimate litmus no revelation about his jaw-dropping ties) reconsidering their distaste for to for decades) and excusing inex- new cast of characters, outlook and character defects and no demonstra- Trump; it is far more likely Trump will cusable behaviour. They now have to mode of operation. test of character ohn Miller” and “John Bar- tion of ignorance will be sufficient to enrage them and deepen their antip- write off scandal, character defects Trump is taking a wrecking ball to and political ron” -- the phony publicist dislodge the true believers or those athy in the months ahead. and abject lack of preparation. the GOP’s chances in November. Along credibility. And each “Jnames Donald Trump used whose opportunism has consumed Charlie Cook wrote: “From 1992 Meanwhile, the electoral college the way, however, he also is destroy- in the 1980s and 1990s to brag about them. That group is some proportion through 2012, Democrats won 23 states overwhelmingly favours a Clinton win. ing the careers of dozens of national day Republicans women and other matters -- remind of the nearly 11 million Republicans plus the District of Columbia in all six Put differently, they will go through the Republicans who will be discredited come forward, us just how bizarrely needy and dis- and independents who have voted elections, giving them 242 electoral agony and embarrassment of defend- by their association with him. Per- honest Trump can be. He may not be for him in the primaries. votes, or 89 percent needed to win. ing Trump while facing almost certain haps a fresh start is needed, but in either to pass or a world-class businessman (refusing But what about the approxi- Conversely, Republicans have won just defeat. It is one thing to fight an hon- any event, it’s beginning to look like fail. Conservatives to turn over his tax returns suggests mately 16 million who voted for other 13 states with 102 electoral votes six ourable, losing cause; it is another to conservatives will need to reconstruct he may have exaggerated his wealth, Republicans candidates and the tens times in a row, constituting 38 per- sacrifice honour for a humiliating loss. a political party out of 2016’s debris. are keeping score. as he does everything else), but he of millions more he will need to win cent of the electoral vote. At the end of the campaign, their The hard work surely won’t be done is a world-class narcissist (he could the general election? “Some have dubbed this a “Blue policy stances eviscerated, their vitriol by those insisting Trump’s lies, decep- not pay a real publicist to brag on his There is still hope to educate and Wall” of states that at least these at fellow conservatives overflowing tion and ignorance are all beside the behalf?) and liar (both in the initial rouse those whom he must convert days give Democrats a strong natu- and their political judgment mocked, point. Actually, Trump has become charade and his recent denial). to the cause. And it is here where his ral advantage. Demographic changes the pro-Trump forces may no longer the ultimate litmus test of character It is peculiar that his devoted fol- mound of problems accumulates and are mainly responsible. In 1992, when be in a position to lead a united party. and political credibility. And each day lowers who dub Hillary Clinton so threatens to bury him. Bill Clinton was first elected, 87 per- Meanwhile, the #NeverTrump forces’ Republicans come forward, either to untrustworthy as to be disqualified The Trump folk and many wish- cent of the national electorate was disdain and amazement at Trumpkins’ pass or fail. Conservatives are keep- from the presidency and fumed over ful voices in the media (either those white; by 2012, the white share had affinity for self-delusion grows with ing score.

All thoughts and views expressed in these columns are those of the writers, not of the newspaper. All correspondence regarding Views and Opinion pages should be mailed to the Editor-in-Chief. 12 TUESDAY 17 MAY 2016 ASIA / AFRICA

Afghanistan backs Beijing Force of law stance on South China Sea

AP creation of new islands out of coral reefs. Russia has so far been the most Hou said prominent nation to publicly endorse BEIJING: China yesterday said land- Abdullah pledged China’s position. locked Afghanistan has expressed China has refused to participate support for Beijing’s stance on the Afghanistan’s in international arbitration on the South China Sea dispute, the latest support for China matter brought by the Philippines country from outside the region to in its fight against and undermined efforts to approach line up behind China’s calls for bilat- the issue multilaterally through the eral talks on the issue. extremist groups 10-member Association of Southeast The Foreign Ministry said blamed for attacks Asian Nations. Afghanistan Chief Executive Abdul- Hou said Abdullah pledged lah Abdullah made the statement in in Xinjiang and Afghanistan’s support for China in its a meeting with Chinese Premier Li elsewhere in the fight against extremist groups blamed Keqiang in Beijing that also touched for attacks in Xinjiang and elsewhere on security cooperation along their country. in the country. border in China’s volatile western Beijing has long provided Kabul Kenyan riot police officers raise batons over a man during a demonstration of Kenya’s opposition region of Xinjiang. Hou said Li also expressed with financial support and Chinese supporters in Nairobi, yesterday. Opposition protesters led by former Prime Minister Raila Odinga “Our Afghan counterparts China’s willingness to help with companies have invested in Afghan gathered outside the Indepedent Electoral and Boundaries Comission building to demand the dismissal expressed their gratitude for China’s Afghanistan’s national reconcilia- mining projects that hope to exploit of IEBC commissioners, after alleged bias towards the ruling Jubillee Alliance Party. long-term support over the years, and tion process, provide assistance for the country’s estimated $3 trillion in also said they support China’s posi- projects including the construction of mineral and petrochemical deposits. tion on the South China Sea issue and low-cost housing and boost imports Beijing’s state-run China Met- support China’s efforts to resolve the of Afghan agricultural projects. allurgical Group struck a $3 billion South China Sea issue through bilat- China has been seeking sup- deal in 2008 to develop a min- eral channels and through peaceful port from friendly nations for its ing town at Mes Aynak with power Johannesburg varsity hall torched in means such as negotiation and con- bilateral approach to settling South generators, road and rail links, and sultation,” the deputy director general China Sea territorial disputes, largely smelting facilities. Workers built of the ministry’s department of Asian to counter efforts by the U.S., Philip- a residential compound, but were Affairs, Hou Yanqi, told reporters fol- pines and others to challenge China’s pulled out because of security con- latest campus attack; no arrests yet lowing the talks. claim to virtually the entire sea and cerns. President Ashraf Ghani’s government says it is determined to finish that project. The sector is badly hampered by AFP clashes at universities around South campuses temporarily shut down. a lack of expertise in exploration, Africa. A statement from the univer- The protests by students, many extraction and processing, along sity said arsonists had “fire bombed” of them so-called “born frees” who with inadequate infrastructure and the 1,000-seater auditorium as well grew up after apartheid, forced the the country’s chronic insecurity. A JOHANNESBURG: South African as computer laboratories full of government to abandon planned bitter feud between Abdullah and university authorities said yesterday equipment. tuition fee hikes. Violence has also Ghani has also hobbled the Kabul that the firebombing of an audito- “This is just the latest in a set of erupted at student demonstrations government, leaving interim minis- rium in Johannesburg was part of an criminal acts directed at our coun- this year, with buildings in February ters in critical positions while the U.S. “organised set of attacks” targeting try’s basic and higher education torched at the North West Universi- ally struggles to confront lawlessness, educational institutions. institutions,” Vice-Chancellor Ihron ty’s Mafikeng campus. corruption and the Taliban’s resilient The overnight arson attack at the Rensburg said. Other campus unrest has focused and perhaps expanding insurgency. University of Johannesburg caused “We are calling on the police, the on allegations of racism and a dis- China has also hosted talks about 100 million rand ($640,000) intelligence services and the judiciary pute over the use of the Afrikaans between the Kabul government and damage, destroying an audito- to re-double their efforts in getting language. its opponents, although Abdullah rium, computer laboratories and to the bottom of this organised set In recent weeks, teaching has was quoted as telling China’s official equipment. of attacks.” been suspended in the Vuwani dis- Chinese Premier Li Keqiang (right) talks with Afghan Chief Executive Xinhua News Agency last week that No arrests have yet been made South African universities were trict of the northern province of Officer Abdullah Abdullah at a signing ceremony at the Great Hall of such contacts have failed to bear fruit over the attack, which follows months rocked last year by violent student Limpopo after about 20 schools were the People in Beijing, yesterday. because of Taliban intransigence. of sporadic violence, protests and protests over tuition fees, with many burnt down by local residents.

15 students dead Nigerian govt to meet unions over strike threat in Indonesia landslide AFP shops and markets, would be shut if a presentation to explain the petrol to abuse. Nigeria depends on fuel unions may have misjudged the pub- talks failed, the unions warned, call- price rises. imports because of a lack of domes- lic mood this time around. ing on people to stockpile food. Kachkiwu, who also heads Niger- tic refining capacity. “(The NLC) should realise that AFP Any industrial action would exac- ia’s state-run oil firm, last week The government has kept prices at Nigeria is already in a tailspin and ABUJA: Nigeria’s government was erbate pressures in Africa’s largest announced the petrol price rise and the pump low and paid the difference cannot afford any strike that will yesterday seeking to reach an agree- economy caused by the global slump deregulated the fuel import market to importers but with overall oil reve- worsen the nation’s economic woes SIBOLANGIT: Fifteen students ment with union leaders to prevent in crude prices, which has drasti- to try to end shortages caused by the nue squeezed it can no longer afford at this time,” said Lagos stockbroker holidaying at a popular tourist a national strike over petrol price cally cut government revenue from lack of forex. to subsidise at 86.50 naira per litre. Sola Oni. spot in western Indonesia have rises, as economic pressures mount oil exports. Black market exchange rates are Because of the lack of fuel, motor- “Besides, the new price (of pet- been killed in a landslide, an offi- and concerns grow about falling oil Nigeria depends on oil sales for 70 running at about 350 naira to the US ists have been paying upwards of 145 rol) will end the fraudulent subsidy cial said yesterday, with fears the production. percent of government revenue and dollar but the government has refused naira per litre for months. regime that has only enriched a few death toll could rise. Labour ministry officials were the global plunge in oil prices has to change the official rate of 197-199. Kachikwu told parliament the Nigerians,” added Oni, from Sofunix Heavy rain and flash flooding to meet with representatives of the weakened the naira currency and As a result, fuel importers have price rise was “absolutely essential” Investments and Communications. triggered a major landslide Sun- Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and made foreign exchange scarce. been unable to source forex at the to kick-start growth, improve inves- Public affairs commentator day at a famous “two-coloured” the Trade Union Congress (TUC) to To make matters worse, junior oil official market rate to buy supplies, tor confidence and even for Nigeria Quincy Durodola also questioned the waterfall at Sibolangit in the north discuss the 67 percent hike imposed minister Emmanuel Kachikwu said causing pumps to run dry and long “to survive as a nation”. timing of the union threat. of Sumatra island, said disaster last week. Both unions have called domestic production had fallen from queues at filling stations. A previous attempt to end fuel “NLC was quiet when their agency spokesman Sutopo Purwo for an indefinite strike from today 2.2 million barrels per day because Wranglings over subsidy pay- subsidies in January 2012 saw pet- members in IPMAN (Independent Nugroho. unless prices are slashed from 145 of renewed militant attacks on pipe- ments between importers and the rol prices more than double but the Petroleum Marketers Association of Searchers had so far unearthed naira ($0.73) to 86.50 naira per litre. lines and facilities. “We are basically government have previously led government was forced to partially Nigeria) collected subsidies and still 15 bodies, Sutopo said late yester- Government offices, airports, sea producing about 1.4 million bar- suppliers to withhold deliveries in reinstate them after widespread pro- sold above the subsidised rates,” he day. Two others, presumed dead, ports and businesses including banks, rels (per day),” he told parliament in a system widely criticised as open tests. But there were indications the said. were still being recovered, while four remained missing. “It is believed those victims were also buried in the landslide,” Sutopo Shorter sentence for DR said in a statement. For a safe Korea Fifty-seven others had been found alive with just one injured, Congo’s Bemba sought he added. About 300 people joined in the search, including students and volunteers. AFP crimes against humanity. A chilling series of rapes, mur- ders and atrocities were committed in the Central African Republic (CAR) Quake shakes THE HAGUE: Defence lawyers yes- between October 2002 to March terday sought to mitigate the sentence 2003 by troops from Bemba’s Con- being weighed against former Con- golese Liberation Movement (MLC). eastern Japan golese vice president Jean-Pierre After a lengthy trial which Bemba, convicted in March of a slew opened in November 2010, the judges of war crimes in the Central African found Bemba had retained “effective TOKYO: A strong earthquake Republic. command and control” over the 1,500 shook Tokyo and other cities in Bemba’s case is the first before MLC troops he sent to CAR to quell an eastern Japan yesterday, but offi- the International Criminal Court attempted coup against then presi- cials said there is no danger of a (ICC) to focus on sexual violence as dent Ange-Felix Patasse. tsunami. a weapon of war, and the first to find They agreed with the prosecu- The Meteorological Agency a military commander to blame for tion that MLC troops had carried out said the earthquake had an ini- the atrocities perpetrated by forces a rampage in CAR which deliberately tial magnitude of 5.6 and was even though he did not order them. targeted civilians. centered in southern Ibaraki pre- Both defence and prosecution But Catholic Bishop Fridolin fecture, about 100 kilometers (60 teams were to argue their case in Ambongo appeared as a character miles) northeast of Tokyo. three days of sentencing hearings witness yesterday seeking to show The agency said the earth- before judges at the court in The that Bemba and the MLC had played South Korean students participate in a fire drill as part of a disaster management exercise at a subway quake was located about 40 Hague. a role in bringing “peace and stabil- station in Seoul yesterday. South Korea is holding its 2016 Safe Korea anti-disaster exercise this week kilometres underground, and there The three judges convicted the ity” to the northwestern Equateur against terrorist threats and natural disasters. was no danger of a tsunami. There former feared rebel leader in March province of Democratic Republic of were no immediate reports of inju- on five charges of war crimes and Congo. ries or damage. PAKISTAN TUESDAY 17 MAY 2016 13 Kabul locked down as Hazaras protest over power line

anti-government rallies for years last speed up the project and save millions November, which was galvanised by of dollars. Authorities shut the beheading of a group of Hazaras. Hazara leaders in the ethni- down roads to the Some protesters pelted rocks at cally divided nation lashed out at the presidential palace, officials and banged on the sides of Pashtun president, calling the deci- containers, prompting police to spo- sion prejudiced against the Hazaras, fearing a repeat radically use water cannon against a community that has suffered a long of the violence in them but the demonstration was history of oppression. largely peaceful. “(President) Ashraf “Bamiyan has seen no develop- November when Ghani is hiding himself behind blast ment in 15 years (since the Taliban protesters tried to walls,” Dawood Naji, a Hazara leader, were toppled from power),” Hazara told flag-waving demonstrators, lawmaker Arif Rahmani said. “We are scale the walls of the drawing rousing applause. “We can demanding justice, not charity.” compound. break down these containers if we Ghani has appointed a want but we are here to protest in a commission to review the multi-mil- civilised way for our rights.” lion-dollar project and assured the Authorities shut down roads to the protesters that Bamiyan would receive AFP presidential palace, fearing a repeat of electricity from it even if the trans- the violence in November when pro- mission line does not pass through testers tried to scale the walls of the the province. compound. The rally comes in the midst of KABUL: Tens of thousands of minor- The 500-kilovolt TUTAP power the Taliban’s annual spring offensive ity Hazaras demonstrated through the line, which would connect the Cen- launched last month and authorities streets of Kabul yesterday, demand- tral Asian nations of Turkmenistan, said the streets were blocked with ing that a key power transmission line Uzbekistan and Tajikistan with shipping containers to prevent any pass through their electricity-starved electricity-hungry Afghanistan and insurgent attacks during the protests. province, in the second major anti- Pakistan, is seen as a crucial infra- The dispute, which highlights the government protest in recent months. structure project.But it has been mired challenges of modernising the coun- Protesters chant anti-government slogans during a demonstration yesterday in Kabul to demand that the Authorities locked down central in controversy, with leaders from the try, threatens to overshadow the Turkmenistan-Uzbekistan-Tajikistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan (TUTAP) electricity line linking energy-rich central Kabul, blocking key intersections with minority group demanding that the TUTAP project, which is due to be Asia pass through a central Hazara-dominated area. stacked shipping containers as the line be routed through Bamiyan, one implemented by 2018 and could help protesters marched on the presiden- of the most deprived areas of Afghan- ease crippling nationwide blackouts. tial palace, holding unlit lanterns and istan with a large Hazara population. The protest underscores Ghani’s during an anti-corruption summit media. Last November thousands of under Taliban control and has been banners with slogans such as “justice The line was originally set to pass rising unpopularity amid endemic in London. There has been a surge protesters marched coffins contain- the scene of clashes between rival and light”. through the central province but the corruption, rampant unemployment in violence against the community, ing the decapitated bodies of seven militant factions. Ghani called the The demonstration, which spot- government rerouted it through the and a worsening 15-year Taliban with a series of kidnappings and Hazaras through the Afghan cap- killings “the shared pain of a nation” lights the war-torn nation’s turbulent mountainous Salang pass north of insurgency. Hazara protesters last killings in recent months that have ital. Their bodies were found in the and accused the militants of trying to politics, follows one of the biggest Kabul, saying the shorter route would week repeatedly heckled Ghani triggered a wave of fury on social southern province of Zabul, which is divide Afghanistan.

Abducted Clarification sought from Sharif on foreign remittances officials freed Internews Ordinance 2001, which empowers tax In 2011, the premier received Sources said that due to adverse In his article, DrHaq wrote that his after govt takes officials to seek information about Rs129.3m foreign remittances from implications of the notice, particu- investigation showed that numerous any transaction. his son and then gifted Rs31.7m to his larly for the Sharif family members, questions and dichotomies arose from The FBR field office sent the daughter and Rs19.45m to his second FBR top officials are now trying to the documents contained in the Pan- own captives ISLAMABAD: Pakistani tax author- notice just five days after the Pan- son, according to an investigative arti- hush the matter up. FBR Chairman ama Papers and those filed by Nawaz ities have served a notice on Prime ama Papers disclosed that the Sharif cle published in an English daily. Nisar Muhammad Khan was allegedly Sharif and Maryam before the ECP Minister Nawaz Sharif, seeking a family owned offshore companies. The article — “Tough Times for helping the ruling family to complete and the FBR. Reuters clarification on receipts of foreign Sources said the field office has PM” — was written by Dr. Ikramul the missing documentation, sources Dr. Haq said as per wealth recon- remittances from his son and subse- sought a clarification from the pre- Haq, the country’s top tax expert and claimed. ciliation statement for tax year 2011, quent distribution among his family mier about foreign remittances that Supreme Court’s advocate. Despite repeated attempts in the Nawaz Sharif showed that he gave a members. he received from his son and their Dr. Haq wrote that under the law, last few days, the FBR chairman did gift of Rs31.7m to Maryam Nawaz and WANA: Seven Pakistani govern- The notice was sent on April 8 by onward distribution as gift to his there is a procedure to give a gift to not respond to the question as to a gift worth Rs19.45m to his son. ment workers kidnapped near the Federal Board of Revenue’s audit daughter, Maryam Nawaz, and to his someone, which in this case has not whether the bureau has sent a notice He stated that Captain Safdar in the Afghan border were freed unit one, zone-III of the Regional Tax son. been followed. Under the law, a com- to the premier and if tax authorities his statements of assets and liabili- yesterday, an official said, after Office in Lahore, said sources in the It was not clear whether or not missioner is empowered to send a took any subsequent action. FBR ties as on June 30, 2011 to the ECP, government representatives regional office. The notice was served the prime minister has responded to notice under Section 176 without con- spokesperson Dr Muhammad Iqbal showed no change in the assets dur- detained local villagers under a under Section 176 of the Income Tax the notice. sulting the FBR headquarters. said he was unaware of any such ing the year. colonial-era law of “collective notice. “If the amount was gifted to the responsibility”. “I cannot confirm whether or not daughter through a cross cheque as The officials, abducted in Paki- a notice has been sent to Prime Minis- required under the law then her hus- stan’s South Waziristan tribal ter Nawaz Sharif,” said Iqbal. He also band was bound to declare it,” he said. region in March and later taken refused to give further comment on DrHaq wrote that this gift raises to Afghanistan, were handed over the issue. many questions. For example, as per to Pakistani authorities, Zafrul Sources said the notice may not section 39(3) of the Income Tax Ordi- Islam, the political agent for South carry any adverse implications for nance, 2001 any amount claimed as Waziristan, said. the premier but it could create prob- gift should be received either through “They are safe and sound and lems for his daughter, Maryam, and a cross cheque or through a bank- now I am taking them to South her husband, Captian (retd) Muham- ing channel from a person holding a Waziristan’s headquarters, Wana,” mad Safdar. The FBR chairman is said National Tax Number. Islam said. to be close to Safdar. Admittedly, the PM’s son was not He did not say if a ransom was The Section 39 Subsection 3 of an NTN holder. This amount was to paid, or which militant faction was the Income Tax Ordinance defines be offered as income even if received responsible. But he confirmed that the mechanism of giving/ receiving through a banking channel, which most of the 22 tribesmen who a gift. “A loan, advance, deposit or Nawaz Sharif failed to do. “This needs had been arrested in a “collective gift” should either be given through probe,” he said. responsibility” punishment by the “a crossed cheque drawn on a bank He said as per assets declarations local government administration or through a banking channel,” it says. from 2011 to 2013, Nawaz has been had already been freed. Sources said the FBR field office receiving huge gifts through remit- None of the 22 tribesmen was had apprehensions that the PM’s tances from his son. Since his son is suspected of direct involvement in children did not receive the foreign not an NTN holder, the entire amounts the officials’ abduction, but laws remittances in a manner prescribed become chargeable to tax under the governing the tribal regions inher- by the law. Income Tax Ordinance, 2001. ited from British colonialists allow Secondly, Captain Safdar, who “Secondly, the PM’s son never for such retaliatory detentions. is also an MNA, also did not dis- showed these amounts in his UK In 2009, Pakistan’s army close these remittances in his assets returns. In other words, offshore poured 40,000 troops into South People watch a broadcast of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif delivering a speech about his family’s involvement declarations filed with the Election accounts have apparently been used Waziristan to fight Islamist mili- in the so-called ‘Panama Papers’ at the parliament house in Peshawar, yesterday. Commission of Pakistan (ECP). to send these funds,” he added. tants including the Taliban. Imran’s offshore firm was active till 2015

Internews Imran Khan filed his nomination papers on March minister to acquire a plot and stated that he didn’t 29, 2013. The 2013 nomination papers of Imran own any house or land. The plot was subsequently Khan show that neither he declared his offshore allotted to him. JFSC’s record shows that the off- company in asset statement nor mentioned his shore company filed its annual return for the year ISLAMABAD: The latest documents of the Govern- investment or capital of the company. The 2013 1987 on May 26, and June 22. Niazi Services Lim- ment of Jersey, Channel Islands, show that the PTI nomination papers show that Imran Khan even ited received a notice of registrar on April 25, 1988. chief’s benaami offshore company Niazi Services declared on oath in categorical terms that he didn’t It filed returns for the year 1988 on June 8. Limited not only remained operational till Octo- own any company. The offshore company received notices from ber 1, 2015 but Imran Khan’s team also continued The JFSC’s record shows that PTI chief’s offshore the Registrar’s Office on April 28, April 29 and June to file annual returns till February 2014 and paid company Niazi Services Limited was incorporated 30, 1989. It filed its annual returns for the year 1989 a fee for filing returns. in Jersey, Channel Island, on May 10, 1983. A notice on July 21. Under the law, filing return every year The PTI in its official version claimed that Niazi of Registrar was issued to the Niazi Services Lim- is the basic condition to continue operations of an Services Limited owned by Imran Khan has been ited on April 3, 1984 by JFSC. offshore company in Jersey, Channel Island. dormant for long. The documents of Jersey Finan- Imran Khan purchased a flat in South Ken- On January 1, 1990, Imran Khan changed the cial Services Commission (JFSC) show that the last sington, London, in 1983 which was registered directors of the company from Langtry Trustees Annual Return of Niazi Services Limited was filed with Land Registry Department of UK govern- Limited, Langtry Secretaries Limited, Langtry Con- on February 20, 2014. Interestingly, Imran Khan’s ment on May 3, 1984. The JFSC record shows that sultants Limited to Barclays Private Bank and Trust team of accountants submitted the annual returns the offshore company filed its first annual return Limited, Barclay Trust Channel Limited and Bar- of Niazi Services Limited for the year 2013 on Feb- on February 17, 1986. It received two notices from clay Trust Jersey Limited. ruary 28, 2013, the JFSC documents reveal. the Registrar’s office on April 24, 1987. The company’s paid capital was £10, 000. It had Imran Khan arrives at the parliament building to attend a special session However, the official documents of the Elec- Interestingly, on April 2, 1987, PTI chief Imran 10,000 shares and all the above mentioned direc- in Islamabad, yesterday. tion Commission of Pakistan show that PTI chief Khan wrote an application to the then Punjab chief tors had merely three shares each. 14 TUESDAY 17 MAY 2016 INDIA

Boat blaze Telangana heat New education wave death toll rises to 300 policy to be IANS HYDERABAD: The death toll due to heat wave in Telangana rose to 300 this season, officials said yes- out on May 26 terday. According to disaster manage- ment department, 15 more deaths were reported from various parts “Another truth in the matter is of the state during last two days, that if you see the bail order copy of taking the toll to 300. NCERT will address the court, the judge has expressed Nalgonda district bore the challenges facing the sentiments that reflect the voice of brunt with maximum heat wave education system, the people. The statement made in deaths (90) followed by Mahabub- the judgment copy was not of mine, nagar (44). Meanwhile, the met says Education it was of a judge,” she added. office said there was marked fall Minister. On the death of Dalit student in maximum temperatures at one Rohith Vemula in Hyderabad, she or two places in the state. said: “Whatever I have spoken in According to Hyderabad Mete- public domain I substantiated that in orological Centre, the maximum IANS Parliament with facts and it was the A boat allegedly set ablaze by protesters in Santipur area of West Bengal’s Nadia district. Hundreds temperatures at one or two places reason that privilege motion against were appreciably below average. clashed with police protesting over delayed rescue operation after a boat capsized in Hugli river me was not taken up.” Ramagundam was the hottest killing 18 people. NEW DELHI: Union Human The Minister also took swipe at place in the state with mercury Resource Development (HRD) Minis- Congress Vice-president Rahul Gan- soaring to 44 degrees Celsius. ter Smriti Irani yesterday announced dhi, saying that the series of letters that the Narendra Modi government between the university and lawmak- will bring a new education policy by ers he was referring to also had the May 26. name of his partymen. “Under the new education policy, Answering a question over Youth told to fight hypertension with better diet NCERT will address all those chal- Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s lenges facing the education system, degree row, the minister said, “If as even students tell me, we know you approach a university as a third more about Renaissance but not party it is the responsibility of the IANS including brain haemorrhage. “Reversing it may be more dif- hardly get time to exercise and eat a about Maharana Pratap,” Irani said varsity to protect the privacy of the “One in four individuals above ficult if not impossible. Get your proper diet. This leads to hyperten- while speaking at the ‘Samvaad’ candidate.” 25 years in India has hypertension blood pressure checked every year sion. Diabetes is found commonly Conclave organised by India TV to “But when this issue came up in NEW DELHI: With 30 per cent of and it is increasing at an alarming as hypertension often has no symp- among youths in the 20s and 30s assess the performance of two years public domain, our party president deaths in India attributed to hyper- pace. Reducing salt intake, stopping toms and delayed diagnosis can cause age group. A sedentary lifestyle only of Modi government. willingly released the PM’s mark- tension and diseases triggered by tobacco use, reducing stress by slow- harm to some key organs like kidney, exacerbates the situation.” Responding to a query on the sheet and even the university has it, health experts across the coun- ing down, yoga or meditation and eye, brain, heart etc. If diagnosed with Asked if youths in other countries JNU controversy, Irani said her min- confirmed that the documents are try yesterday cautioned youngsters increasing physical activity are some hypertension, take drugs without fail were also suffering from hyperten- istry never meddled in the affairs of genuine.” to regulate their eating habits and of the key strategies to reduce blood and change your lifestyle,” he said. sion, he said: “The scenario in the the university. Underlining the need to spread improve fitness in order to prevent pressure,” said A Muruganathan, Currently the world has over 9.4 world is the same, but as the medical “The matter (JNU) is sub-judice technical education, Irani said under the condition, which has risen 20 per president, Hypertension Society of million people suffering from hyper- system in Western and South Asian and as in-charge of this ministry I the government’s ‘Unnat Bharat cent among the youth. India. tension and the figure is on the rise. countries such as China is very much believe it will be incorrect to make Abhiyaan’, the IITs, IIMs and cen- The experts also said that due to Emphasising that one should S S Das, head of critical care organised and focused, they are eas- any statement at this juncture. Who- tral universities have adopted five the unorganised health care system always get checked up for the con- and cardiology at Kolkata-based ily able to tackle the problem.” ever has made this case (sedition) villages in 90 districts across the in India, youth were becoming vic- dition early, he said that ignorance Mercy Hospital, told IANS: “The cur- The experts also said that many should now prove the charges before country to boost education and tech- tims of hypertension and other major can lead to a stage where hyperten- rent scenario is such that youngsters people indulge in self-medication, the judiciary,” Irani said. nical knowhow. health complications triggered by it sion cannot be reversed. constantly are on working hours and which leads to other problems.

All-out efforts Grieving followers NEET: Maharashtra leader on to unearth calls up Prime Minister black money: Finance Minister IANS suicides like farmers if the govern- ment did not intervene immediately. “When there is already a IANS MUMBAI: Taking up the concerns Common Entrance Test (CET) in of students and their parents on the Maharashtra, where is the need for NEET issue, Maharashtra Navnirman NEET?” Thackeray said after a meet- NEW DELHI: Finance Minister Sena president Raj Thackeray yester- ing with Chief Minister Devendra Arun Jaitley said yesterday that day said he called up Prime Minister Fadnavis here. the government is making “all-out Narendra Modi and asked who runs On May 9, the Supreme Court efforts” to unearth black money the country — the government or the refused to modify its April 28 order stashed away in offshore accounts. Supreme Court. making NEET mandatory for admis- Speaking at the India TV’s “I called up the prime minis- sion to undergraduate medical ‘SAMVAAD’ conclave, he also ter and asked him: ‘Who runs the courses across the country for the warned that those who have not country — the government or the academic year 2016-2017. utilised the “compliance window” Supreme Court?’ I apprised him of On May 5, over 400,000 students to declare their black money will serious concerns on National Eli- appeared in the MHT-CET for admis- face sleepless nights. gibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) sions to the MBBS and BDS courses “We framed the anti-black which are worrying parents and in Maharashtra’s medical and den- money law and asked people to students alike,” Thackeray told the tal colleges. disclose their black money and Grieving devotees wait in queue to pay tributes to the mortal remains of Indian Nirankari spiritual media. Meanwhile, Fadnavis said he will pay 60 percent tax instead of 30 leader Baba Hardev Singh in New Delhi, yesterday. The spiritual leader died in a road accident in He said he told Modi that NEET meet the prime minister to apprise percent plus penalty. In HSBC Canada and his body was kept in New Delhi for his devotees to pay their final respects. Last rites will will make the state educational him of the concerns of Maharash- accounts details, while the UPA be performed in New Delhi tomorrow. boards redundant and cautioned tra’s students and their parents on government did nothing, we that depressed students will commit the issue and seek his intervention. assessed the accounts and filed criminal prosecution against each person. We also assessed and filed prosecutions against holders of A Liechtenstein accounts,” Jaitley Electricity lights up life in remote Uttar Pradesh village said. “In Panama (Papers), there are two kinds of people. Few peo- AFP to bring electricity to 18,452 Indian Even once they reached the vil- ple have kept money outside the villages. lages, some were given a hostile country with RBI’s consent and few Government figures released reception by residents suspicious of without it. Notices have been sent ANANDPUR: Ram Kishore searched last year showed that more than 300 local governments that had given to all illegal account holders and long and hard to find a suitable wife million people in India — the world’s them little help in the past. inquiries are on,” he added. for his son, but his efforts only paid off fastest-growing major economy -- India’s federal structure has He said that during the year, when electricity finally came to his still had no access to electricity. added to the challenges, with elec- the government detected Rs710bn village in rural north India this year. Per-capita electricity consump- tricity provision usually handled at domestic tax evasion. It was not until the power pylons tion is barely one third of the global the state level. “In our budget, I had were installed as part of a government average. Each state has its own, often loss- announced that starting June 1 scheme to connect thousands of vil- Speaking from the ramparts of the making power providers, which are this year, whoever has domestic lages to the national grid that Kishore Red Fort in Delhi, Modi said those vil- not always eager to extend provision unassessed income, should pay could persuade a prospective bride’s lagers had been “deprived of the rays to the poorest villages where reve- tax with penalty and declare it. parents to part with their daughter. of development,” promising to finish nues are unlikely to justify the cost. Till date, no government took such Now he is all smiles as he sits the job within 1,000 days and saying Nonetheless, since Modi launched steps, you can say all-out efforts under a glowing light bulb in his sin- the country was “not ready to wait the scheme, over 7,700 villages have are being made to unearth black gle-room home in Anandpur village. for 10 years”. been connected to the grid. money,” he said, also challenging Just 230 kilometres from the capital It has not been an easy task. As the main power line to Anand- the Congress to disclose what steps New Delhi, it has never had electric- Dinesh Arora, who runs the pur is switched on, the local men Ram Kishore sits beneath a newly installed electricity meter at his home they had taken to tackle the black ity — until now. scheme for the power ministry, says who had gathered excitedly around in the village of Anandpur in Uttar Pradesh. Anandpur is a beneficiary money issue. “I will personally invite my the communities targeted are the “the the visiting officials to watch, run “I challenge my Congress daughter-in-law’s family to visit us toughest villages in most extreme cor- screaming towards their mostly of an ambitious plan Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced in his and UPA friends to tell me what and look at the electricity meter,” ners of the country”. mud and brick houses yelling, “did Independence Day speech last August to bring electricity to 18,452 they have done compared to our the 60-year-old former labourer Many cannot be reached by road it come?”. villages. two year tenure to bring back told AFP proudly after his house was or are in areas riven by violence. “My husband has promised that black money. We are bringing connected. Two of Arora’s engineers were we will now buy a fan and sleep kerosene lamps in Anandpur. has been impossible without electric back money through these steps Anandpur is just one beneficiary kidnapped and roughed up by Mao- peacefully at night, without mosqui- Each of the village’s 120 residents lighting and those who are not declaring of an ambitious plan Prime Minis- ist guerrillas, while another team had toes,” said Urmila Devi, who lived in has a different take — some women For young men like farm labourer through compliance window, will ter Narendra Modi announced in his to swim across a river to reach their a village with electricity before she are looking forward to being able to Neeraj Singh, electricity means hav- face the sleepless night,” he said. Independence Day speech last August destination. married and has had to get used to cook indoors even after dark, which ing a mobile phone that works. INDIA TUESDAY 17 MAY 2016 15 Exit polls show Left win in Kerala; BJP in Assam

gave 79-93 seats to the BJP com- the BJP. The exit polls were divided bine, 26-33 to the Congress and 6-10 over Tamil Nadu. Mamata’s Trinamool to the All India United Democratic Three surveys predicted a defeat set to sweep West Front (AIUDF). for Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa’s ABP-Nielsen predicted 81 seats to AIADMK. But a fourth said she would Bengal. the BJP coalition, 33 to the Congress retain power comfortably, winning and 10 to the AIUDF. 139 of the 234 seats. The NewsX Chanakya poll gave The News Nation TV exit poll 90 seats to the BJP combine, 27 to gave 95-99 seats to the AIADMK IANS the Congress and nine to the AIUDF. and 114-118 to the DMK-Congress According to TimesNow C-Voter exit alliance. The People Welfare Front poll, the BJP and allies would get 57 (PWF), made up of six parties, could seats, the Congress 41, AIUDF 18 and get 14 seats and the BJP four seats. NEW DELHI: Exit polls at the end of others 10. Nine seats could go to others. five-state elections last evening pre- In West Bengal, Chief Minis- The Axis-My India exit poll dicted a Trinamool sweep in West ter Mamata Banerjee was set to predicted 124-140 seats to the DMK- Bengal, a BJP win in Assam, a Left retain power with a slightly reduced Congress alliance, 89-110 to the victory in Kerala but the verdict was majority. AIADMK, 0-3 to the BJP and 4-8 to split over Tamil Nadu, with advan- According to ABP-Nielsen, the others. tage to the DMK. The DMK was also Trinamool would win 163 of the 294 NewsX-Today’s Chanakya pre- tipped to win in Puducherry. assembly seats. The CPI-M-led Left dicted that DMK-Congress alliance Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagham (AIADMK) party leader J In the biggest popularity test Front and the Congress combine would get 140 (plus or minus 11) seats since the Lok Sabha polls of 2014, would get 126 with a solitary seat and AIADMK winning 90 (plus or Jayalalithaa (left) has her voting card checked by election officials as she arrives to cast her vote at a the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) going to the BJP. Others would get minus) nine seats. polling station in Chennai yesterday. appeared poised to win in Assam for four seats. C-Voter, however, gave 139 seats the first time, ending 15 long years of But it warned that in 25 constit- to the AIADMK and 78 to the DMK Congress rule. uencies the margin of victory was coalition. BJP leaders had admitted even set to be less than five percent, and In Kerala, however, the Left could `1.1bn seized during vote in Tamil Nadu before the start of the staggered elec- the final outcome could drastically return to power. tions last month that the party’s best change depending on the results in The India Today-Axis exit poll chances lay in Assam. these seats. gave 88 to 101 seats to the Left Demo- IANS seized by police and other agencies kg gold was also seized in Tamil The BJP-led alliance could bag C-Voter also predicted 167 seats cratic Front (LDF) in the 140-member stood at `240m while in Puduch- Nadu. In Puducherry, `65.7m were 79 to 93 seats in the 126-member for the Trinamool, 75 for the Left, 45 house and 38-48 to the Congress-led erry, a union territory, the cash seized seized and `44.9m released after ver- Assam assembly, three exit polls said. for the Congress, four to the BJP and United Democratic Front (UDF). The NEW DELHI: The Election Commis- amounted to `65.7m. ification,” he added. A fourth survey gave the BJP and its three to others. BJP could get zero to three seats while sion (EC) yesterday revealed that a “A total of Rs1.1bn were seized in In Puducherry, 14,000 litres of two allies — Asom Gana Parishad NewsX-Today’s Chanakya pre- one to four seats may go to others. whopping `1.1bn and 183,000 litres Tamil Nadu. `480m were released liqour were seized, he said. (AGP) and Bodoland People’s Front dicted a whopping 210 (plus or minus The India TV C-Voter exit poll of illegal liqour were seized in Tamil after verification. The remaining “In Kerala, `240m cash, 50,000 (BPF) — 57 seats, close to the critical 14) seats for the Trinamool, 70 (plus or predicted 74-82 seats to the LDF, Nadu during the assembly elections amount is being probed,” said Deputy litres liquor and 520 kg of drugs were half-way mark. minus nine) for the Left-Congress and which is led by the Communist Party which concluded yesterday. Election Commissioner Umesh Sinha. seized,” said Election Commission The India Today-Axis exit poll 14 rpt 14 (plus or minus five) seats for of India-Marxist (CPI-M). In Kerala, the figure of cash “A total of 204 kg silver and 26.35 Director General Sudeep Jain. Govt looking Gujarat CM’s meeting with Modi triggers rumours at protecting IANS numerous meetings have been held Education Minister Bhupendrasinh in which her daughter Anar Patel is not aware of any such move or dis- in the BJP circles for some time now Chudasama are also doing the rounds. a partner, in which the state gov- cussions within the party to remove pastures to discuss a change of guard in Modi’s A close confidante of Modi for ernment allotted land at throwaway Anandiben and make him the chief AHMEDABAD/NEW DELHI: Spec- home state, much ahead of the 2017 nearly three decades, Anandiben was prices. minister. ulation on Gujarat Chief Minister assembly elections, party sources handpicked by him as chief minister Gujarat BJP spokesperson Bharat For the record, the chief minister for cows Anandiben Patel’s removal gained said. when he became the prime minister. Pandya, meanwhile, told IANS that all visited Delhi to discuss with Modi the sudden momentum yesterday The buzz, emerging from these Anandiben is being blamed for these were sheer rumours. water crisis in the state. It was also IANS when she called on Prime Minister meetings, is that Anandiben, the mishandling the nine-month-old “The Congress has been feeding attended by government officials Narendra Modi while her supposed first woman chief minister of Gujarat, Patidar agitation for reservation in this misinformation when the ruling from Gujarat and the Prime Minis- replacement Nitin Patel met BJP pres- might be sent to Punjab or Haryana government jobs and educational party is planning massive celebra- ter’s Office. NEW DELHI: Union Environment ident Amit Shah in Delhi. as a governor and most senior state institutions. tions to mark Narendrabhai’s and Nitin Patel, meanwhile, was Minister Prakash Javadekar yester- The party’ state unit how- cabinet minister Nitin Patel appointed This led to the Bharatiya Janata Anandiben’s completion of two years among the state health ministers day said the government is mulling ever denied any such move, in her place. Party’s debacle in the November- in office. Where is the question of a with whom union Health Minister a plan to ensure the protection of blaming the Congress for spreading The names of state BJP presi- December local body elections. change of guard,” he asked. J P Nadda held discussions over the grazing land for cows and pro- “misinformation”. dent Vijay Rupani, national BJP vice Another reason being cited is an Similarly, Nitin Patel told report- National Eligibility-cum-Entrance vide cow fodder “free” to people Hectic discussions amid president Purshottam Rupala and alleged land scam, involving a firm ers on arriving from Delhi that he was Test. for their livestock. “There is a need to protect pas- ture lands. If there is 500 acres of land, 25 acres be set aside for growing good quality grass and Fruitful gain AAP govt spent Rs1bn fodder. Draft of a policy is being prepared, which will include a provision to provide protein-rich fodder free to the people living in on ads: Congress villages adjoining the jungles for their livestock,” Javadekar said while speaking at a national con- IANS “betraying” the promises of good ference on ‘Gaushalas’ (cowsheds) governance and of ending any kind here. He invited suggestions from of wasteful expenditure, on which the participants from across the promise it had come to power. country for the kind of policy- NEW DELHI: The Congress yester- “Kejriwal could have used based decisions that can be taken day accused the Arvind Kejriwal-led the money for buying 200 new to improve the situation. Aam Aadmi Party government in DTC buses, 2,000 flats for EWS Javadekar said that the con- Delhi of spending Rs1bn for self- (Extremely Weaker Section) and ference will discuss three core promotion in the last three months. 20 government schools with this issues including the measures to “An RTI has revealed that money,” Oza said be taken up to increase the milk between February 10 and May 10, “What is the justification of the productivity of Indian cows, mak- Arvind Kejriwal has spent Rs145m of ‘outstation ads’ being published by ing provision for feed, fodder and taxpayers’ money on advertisements Delhi government in Kerala, Ban- ancillary requirements for Indian published in newspapers only,” Con- galore, Chennai etc,” she asked cows and management of cows in gress spokesperson Shobha Oza told insisting the expenditure “is a white the post-productive phase. reporters at the party headquarters collar corruption”. Addressing the gather- here. “However, the Delhi govern- She said that Kejriwal does not ing, Union Agriculture Minister, ment has yet not given the amount have money to pay the salary of poor Radha Mohan Singh, who was also spent on TV, radio ads and public- sanitation workers, old age pension, present at the conference, said that Kashmiri farmers pack strawberries after picking them from a field on the outskirts of Srinagar ity hoardings but as per calculation, widows’ pension but his party has livestock are the backbone of the yesterday. The cool and dry climate of Kashmir is suitable for strawberries, which require moderate Kejriwal has spent approximately left no stone unturned to splurge rural economy as they provide jobs rainfall and bright sunshine. Rs1bn on all sorts of ads,” she added. public wealth on self glorification to 60 million people. Oza accused the AAP of and misinforming people. Reducing ozone pollution can enhance rice & wheat output: Study

IANS is estimated to be 2.2 million tonnes (3.3 per- weather) when sunlight triggers complex reac- Ghude, C K Jena, D M Chate, and G Beig of models, the team used most suitable spa- cent) and 2.05 million tonnes (2.5 percent), tions involving short-lived climate pollutants, IITM; Rajesh Kumar of US National Center for tial crop distribution and production data respectively,” Gufran Beig, senior scientist at volatile organic compounds (VOC), nitrogen Atmospheric Research; and S H Kulkarni of available for India and the latest emission KOLKATA: India can enhance its rice yields the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, oxides (NOx) and carbon monoxide that orig- the Centre for Development of Advance Com- inventories for 2005. by 2.5 percent and wheat by 3.3 percent if Pune, said. inate mainly on burning of fossil fuels. puting, Pune. “These are long-term studies; so it is rel- emissions leading to generation of ground- “So if we can control the emissions of Ozone pollution is known to impact human Published in the “Current Science” jour- evant. Since 2005, ozone has anyway shown level ozone could be mitigated, say scientists ozone precursors (like volatile organic com- health, crops and ecosystem, and exposure to nal in April, it highlights that although VOC is an increasing trend and so the impact is likely who have developed an ozone risk estimate pounds and nitrogen oxides), then we would elevated levels of ground level ozone for longer one of the culprits, in comparison to NOx, its to be more pronounced,” said Beig. database. produce that much more,” Beig added. duration can impact crops directly (yield or effects are only a “distant second.” The study also maps crop losses. The It could aid policymakers examine suit- Ozone production requires sunlight and biomass). Also, ozone damage can occur to “Our model suggests there is a relatively rice-producing states that are vulnerable to able mitigation strategies for crop protection high ozone concentration coincides with the plants without any visible signs. 93 percent decrease in ozone-induced crop relatively high ozone exposure are Punjab against ozone pollution, they say. crop growing season. To shed light on the links between emis- yield losses if the NOx emissions are miti- (0.85 million tonnes), Andhra Pradesh (0.33 “We found out that the total loss of wheat It is generated in the troposphere (the low- sions and crop losses, the study on the ozone gated,” said Jena. million tonnes), Uttar Pradesh (0.25 million and rice from top 10 producing states in India est layers of the atmosphere associated with risk database was conducted by Sachin D To create software simulations and tonnes) and West Bengal (0.23 million tonnes). 16 TUESDAY 17 MAY 2016 EUROPE / UK

Senior cop Osborne attacks pro-Brexit campaigners seeks probe into Man United fake in next month’s referendum. of Brexit, Osborne’s finance ministry Osborne spoke yesterday along- Osborne said Britain would lose is due to publish a report on the short- side former Labour Party economics bomb ‘fiasco’ Leaving the EU is a £200bn ($287bn) a year in trade in term impact of an “Out” vote soon. spokesman Ed Balls, who was long a one-way ticket to a 15 years’ time and miss out on the A leading supporter of the “Vote critic of Osborne, and former busi- same amount in foreign investment, Leave” campaign, justice minister ness minister Vince Cable, a senior Reuters poorer Britain, the if it fell back on World Trade Organi- Michael Gove said earlier this month member of the opposition Liberal Finance Minister said. sation rules to govern its ties with the that Britain should also leave the sin- Democrat party. Balls and Cable both EU after a Brexit. gle market after a Brexit. said Britain risked economic damage LONDON: Manchester’s police “Leaving the EU is a one-way If a post-Brexit Britain wanted if it left the EU. commissioner demanded an ticket to a poorer Britain,” Osborne to remain part of the single mar- Osborne also accused the “Out” inquiry into the “fiasco” of a fake Reuters told media in an aircraft hangar at ket, it would probably face demands campaign of resorting to conspiracy bomb left behind from a training Stansted Airport, northeast of Lon- from the rest of the bloc to keep its theories ahead of the referendum exercise at Old Trafford that forced don, where the head of airline Ryanair borders open to EU workers and for calling into question the motives the abandonment on Sunday of a said his firm could lower investment to continue paying into the EU’s of global bodies such as the Inter- Premier League soccer match. STANSTED, England: Finance min- after an “Out” vote. budget, just as Norway and Swit- national Monetary Fund and the The device led to the evac- ister George Osborne (pictured) Opinion polls have shown that zerland do. Organisation for Economic Co-oper- uation of Manchester United’s attacked pro-Brexit campaigners for voters tend to think that staying The “Out” campaign has put ation and Development when they stadium shortly before the sched- saying Britain should not just leave in the EU would be better for Brit- stopping high levels of immigration spoke of the economic risks of Brexit. uled 1400 GMT kickoff of their the European Union but also its single ain’s economy but they also remain those who want to leave. and Britain’s contributions to the EU “The economic argument is final league game of the season market, as he sought to convince vot- almost evenly split between those As part of a relentless series of budget at the centre of their message beyond doubt. It’s not a conspiracy, against Bournemouth. ers that the economy faces big risks who want to stay in the bloc and warnings about the economic risks to voters. it’s called a consensus,” Osborne said. “This fiasco caused mas- sive inconvenience to supporters who had come from far and wide to watch the match,” Police and Crime Commissioner for Greater Traditional trot Manchester Tony Lloyd said. Trump warns of sore It also “wasted the time of huge numbers of police officers and the army’s bomb squad, and unnec- essarily put people in danger,” he ties with Cameron said in a statement. Police said the realistic-look- ing device, which was destroyed in Reuters Cameron will work with who- a controlled explosion, had been ever is elected US president and is accidentally left in a toilet by a committed to maintaining the spe- private firm that was conducting cial relationship, the prime minister’s a training exercise. LONDON: Donald Trump said he spokesman said. Two of the Old Trafford stands was unlikely to have a good relation- “The PM has made his views were evacuated about 20 minutes ship with David Cameron because on Donald Trump’s comments very before kickoff. the British prime minister cast the clear. He disagrees with them,” the The whole 75,000-seater sta- US presidential candidate as “divi- spokesman said. “He continues to dium was cleared and the match sive, stupid and wrong” for proposing believe that preventing Muslims from was called off soon afterwards, a temporary ban on Muslims enter- entering the US is divisive, stupid and the first time in 24 years that a ing the United States. wrong. He stands by his comments.” Premier League match had been Cameron criticised Trump in the The spokesman refused to answer abandoned on security grounds. British parliament over his call for questions on who Cameron would “Whilst this in no way the ban on Muslims and suggested like to see win in November but said demeans the professionalism of that the New York billionaire, who there was no telephone call or meet- the police and stewards respon- is now the presumptive Republican ing planned with Trump, adding: “If sible for getting the fans out, or the presidential nominee, would unite one is proposed we will consider it.” supporters’ calmness and cooper- Britain against him if he visited. On a more conciliatory note, ation during the evacuation, it is “It looks like we’re not going to Cameron has said Trump deserves unacceptable that it happened in have a very good relationship, who respect for making it through the the first place,” said Lloyd. knows?” Trump told Britain’s ITV gruelling Republican primary Lloyd, who oversees Manches- television station in an interview process. The Times newspaper also Participants in the ‘Koetzing Pentecost Ride’ ride their horses near Bad Koetzing, Germany, yesterday. ter police but has no operational aired yesterday when asked how ties reported last month Cameron had The procession of 900 horsemen is one of the oldest traditional events in Bavaria. role, is also the city’s interim would fare if he won the US presi- ordered diplomats to attempt to mayor. dential election on November 8. repair relations with Trump. “Well number I’m not stupid “I hope to have a good relation- okay. I can tell you that right now. ship with him but it sounds like he’s Just the opposite. Number Two, in not willing to address the problem terms of divisive: I don’t think I’m a either,” Trump told ITV. Migrant crisis needs generosity, not fear: Jolie divisive person. I’m a unifier, unlike Trump also criticised Lon- our president right now,” Trump said. don’s newly elected Muslim mayor Cameron’s spokesman said the Sadiq Khan for making “very rude AFP “It is hard to hear that this is com- neighbour’s house is on fire you prime minister stood by his origi- statements”. ing from somebody who is pressing to are not safe if you lock your doors. nal comments. Trump had initially welcomed be an American president,” she said. Strength lies in being unafraid.” The United States is Britain’s Khan’s election and said he would “America is built on people com- Jolie Pitt called on international closest ally. US companies are the make an exception in the event of a LONDON: UN special envoy Ange- ing together for freedom, especially community to be more generous biggest foreign direct investors ban on Muslims for him entering the lina Jolie Pitt (pictured) urged the freedom of religion.” towards refugees, who were each “a in Britain and the so-called ‘spe- United States, drawing a sharp reply international community yesterday Conflicts, including the five-year person with an equal right to stand in cial relationship’ with Washington from Khan. to respond to Europe’s worst refugee war in Syria, have fuelled a global dignity on this planet”. “This is a duty has been the cornerstone of British “Donald Trump’s ignorant view crisis since World War II with gen- refugee crisis, with 60 million ref- that falls on all of us, to next UN sec- diplomacy since World War II. of Islam could make both our coun- erosity and not the “politics of fear”. ugees and displaced people across retary-general, to all governments, to Trump’s often controversial tries less safe—it risks alienating In a speech in London, the Oscar- the world. civil society, to everyone of us,” she comments on everything from mainstream Muslims around the winning Hollywood actress said there Jolie Pitt, a United Nations special said. “Whether we succeed will help Muslims and women to the future world and plays into the hands of was a “duty that falls on all of us” to envoy for refugees, said she recog- define this century. The alternative of Nato and relations with Russia the extremists,” Khan said. help those fleeing their homes, warn- nised that some people felt “angry” is chaos.” have drawn criticism from Berlin, Responding to this criticism in ing the alternative was “chaos”. about numbers of people on the move, The UN set out a plan last week Paris and other European capitals. the ITV interview, Trump said: “He The American star also had criti- and no longer had faith that institu- that aims to resettle at least 10 per- But neither Angela Merkel nor doesn’t know me, never met me, cism for US presumptive Republican tions could deal with the issue. “It has to be the toughest in the hope of pro- cent of the global refugee population France’s Francois Hollande have doesn’t know what I am all about. I presidential nominee Donald Trump, given space to a false air of legitimacy tecting themselves whatever the every year, as it tries to tackle the gone as far as Cameron in chiding think they are very rude statements. who has proposed building a wall to to those who promote the politics of cost or challenge to their neigh- crisis. UN Secretary-General Ban Ki- Trump who, if he wins in Novem- Frankly, tell him I will remember stop Mexican immigrants and called fear and separation,” she said. bours, and despite their international moon hopes the new “global compact ber, would be in charge of the world’s those statements. They are very for a temporary ban on Muslims “It has created the risk of a race to responsibilities.” on responsibility-sharing” will lift some most powerful nation and largest nasty statements. It is ignorant for entering the United States. the bottom, with countries competing However, she warned: “If your of the burden on developing countries. economy from January 20 next year. him to say that.” Hundreds of horses prance to mark Queen’s birthday

AFP 600, sailors, soldiers, airmen and women pop group Take That opening the show and who make up this evening’s celebration.” Australia’s Kylie Minogue singing her hit I Broadcast on ITV, the show featured Believe In You. archive footage telling the story of the queen’s James Blunt performed Bonfire Heart WINDSOR, United Kingdom: Performing life, interspersed with live horse perform- while actors including Helen Mirren, who ponies, trotting war horses and sturdy steeds ances accompanied by music in a sandy won an Oscar for portraying Elizabeth in The hung with glittering decorations pranced in arena in the grounds of Windsor Castle, Queen in 2006, spoke about periods from an equine extravaganza at Windsor Castle near London. the monarch’s life. to mark the 90th birthday of Britain’s Queen The Queen and her husband Prince Philip Brass bands played patriotic music before Elizabeth II. arrived in a carriage before taking their seats the Royal Canadian Mounted Police trotted The show, which featured over 900 in the royal box, surrounded by members of their horses in formation around the area horses and 1,500 performers, capped three their family including Prince Harry, Prince to the sound of Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli days of celebration at the castle to mark the William and his wife Kate. singing Nelle Tue Mani. monarch’s April 21 birthday milestone. Horses raced and jumped around the Singer Shirley Bassey closed the event Her son Prince Charles, who is first in line arena while soldiers in extravagant dress with the James Bond song Diamonds are For- to the throne, wrote a message paying tribute paraded and fired antique guns, overlooked ever, dressed in a sparkling gown. to his mother’s love of horsemanship, which by stands filled with 6,000 spectators. But the final performance came from has seen her thoroughbreds win numerous Among the highlights was an acrobatic the crowd, which ended the night by sing- British races. and glittering display by the Royal Cavalry ing Happy Birthday followed by the national “I am delighted that we have succeeded of Oman, accompanied by bagpipes, while anthem God Save the Queen. in bringing together hundreds of members Swiss performers marched as sparks shot The sovereign, who has been on the of the Armed Forces of the United Kingdom, from their twirling red-and-white flags. throne since 1952, overtook her great-great- the Commonwealth and other long-standing Elsewhere during the show, unsad- grandmother queen Victoria to become overseas friends to mark this special birth- dled horses were led in formation by the Britain’s longest-serving monarch last year. day,” Charles wrote. horse whisperer Jean Francois Pignon, who The date of Elizabeth’s birth was marked “It could not be more fitting that a quite made a small white pony walk on its two by military gun salutes around the country Members of the British Pony Club wish the Queen a Happy Birthday during Queen different group which also enjoys the Queen’s hind legs. last month, but traditionally monarchs also Elizabeth II’s 90th birthday celebrations at the Royal Windsor Horse Show in the grounds unfailing interest and support—horses, of There was also plenty of musical enter- have “official” birthday events in the sum- of Windsor Castle. myriad breeds and colour—will join the tainment on offer, with Gary Barlow of British mer months. EUROPE TUESDAY 17 MAY 2016 17 New UN climate talks aim at fleshing out Paris deal

AFP December—remains just beneath the environment minister for the Maldives at the opening plenary. French environment minister Sego- surface. and chair of the Alliance of Small Island Poor countries already reeling lene Royal—current co-chair, along “Now we must design The new goal of capping global States (AOSIS) told the plenary. from disrupted agriculture and storm- with her Moroccan counterpart, of the details of the path to warming at “well below” two degree One of the UN body’s most urgent battered coastal cities are also seeking negotiating process—told diplomats. BONN, GERMANY: Five months after Celsius means nothing less than tasks is orchestrating ramping up of additional funds—under a provision Thousands of climate activ- ushering in a landmark climate deal, the safe, prosperous weaning the world economy off fos- national plans to cut carbon pollu- called “loss and damage”—to repair ists around the world, meanwhile, diplomats kicked off a new round of and climate-neutral sil fuels within a few short decades. tion. The next “political moment” harm done. wrapped up a coordinated, 12-day talks yesterday tasked with converting a It will also require mobilising tril- when countries could deepen their Fast-track ratification of the Paris civil disobedience campaign to political blueprint into a workable plan. future to which we lions of dollars to help poor countries commitments is a so-called stock- Agreement—likely for early next promote the wholesale switch to “The whole world is united in all aspire,” outgoing green their economies and brace for taking in 2018. year—would help push the UN forum renewable energy. its commitment to the global goals climate impacts. Most of the details At the same time, the developing to flesh out the rules and procedures Spearheaded by NGO 350.org, the embodied in the Paris Agreement,” climate chief on how this will happen have yet to world is concerned that too much of needed to move forward, experts say. “Break free from fossil fuels” action the UN’s outgoing climate chief, Chris- Christiana Figueres, be worked out. the $100bn (€88bn) per year promised “There is a lot of work to be done saw campaigners disrupt coal produc- tiana Figueres, told the 196-nation UN said. Voluntary national pledges in the by wealthy nations starting in 2020 before 2020 to give life to those com- tion, occupy mines and block rail lines climate body at the start of a 10-day Paris pact to slash carbon pollution— will be spent on curbing greenhouse mitments that were made in Paris,” in a dozen countries, including Brit- session in Bonn. going into effect in 2020 -- would gases and not enough to boosting cli- said Alden Meyer, a climate analyst ain, South Africa, the United States, “Now we must design the details still allow Earth’s surface by at least mate resilience. with the Washington-based Union of Brazil and Germany. of the path to the safe, prosperous and 3 degrees Celsius (5.4 F), a cataclys- “For our endeavours to be achieved, Concerned Scientists. Fossil fuels still account for more climate-neutral future to which we The targets set are hugely ambi- mic scenario, say scientists. enhanced and adequate financial and Political leaders also encour- than 80 percent of energy consump- all aspire.” tious, and the rift between rich “The only question is whether we technology support ... must be pro- aged the negotiators toward a shift in tion worldwide, though renewables That remains a daunting task, and developing countries—suffi- join together quickly and boldly enough vided,” a Thai diplomat, speaking for thinking. “As of now, you are no longer in 2015 for the first time added more negotiators and experts agreed. ciently reconciled to seal the deal in to avoid catastrophe,” Thoriq Ibrahim, the 134-nation ‘G77 and China’ bloc said just negotiators, you are also builders,” new capacity than all other sources.

Security curtain Thousands of Spaniards march to mark Indignados anniversary

AFP place throughout Spain as people lost their jobs in the economic cri- expressed their anger at the eco- sis, while the government brought in nomic crisis, government austerity spending cuts in a bid to shrink the and corruption. country’s huge debt burden. MADRID: Thousands took to The movement quickly spread While the measures steered Spain Madrid’s streets to mark the fifth beyond Spain, inspiring Occupy away from economic collapse, aus- anniversary of the birth of Spain’s Wall Street protests in New York as terity increased inequality and a Indignados movement, which shook well as gatherings in other Euro- string of corruption scandals deep- the country’s political system and pean cities. ened resentment of the elite. sparked “occupy” movements around It also gave birth to Podemos That anger gave rise to Indig- the world. in January 2014, a far-left, anti- nados, a movement of people from Crowds marched through austerity party that reshaped across the political spectrum who the Spanish capital to the beat of Spain’s traditional political sys- were “indignant” about the country’s drums, holding banners proclaim- tem by sweeping to third place in political, economic and social woes. ing: “Indignados, united or defeated!”, last year’s polls. The movement filtered into city “Unemployed on the march!” and “Five years ago, we came here halls in major cities like Madrid and “European Union of people, not and it was a very moving moment Barcelona, with activists now holding nations!”. of awakening, of unity, of together- prominent positions after municipal Thousands also gathered in the ness,” said Paola Weil, a 35-year-old elections in May last year. French troops patrol the Croisette during the 69th Cannes Film Festival in Cannes, southern France, city’s central Puerta del Sol square teacher. It also reshaped parliament with yesterday. throughout the day and into the The Indignados movement gave the swift rise of Podemos and another evening, commemorating the weeks people at the bottom of society a new centrist grouping, Ciudadanos protesters spent occupying it in the chance to speak out, said Lorenzo in December elections: out of 350 spring of 2011. Higueras, a 52-year-old documen- lawmakers, 211 had never held a “We are here to mark 15-M (the tary maker. seat before. Swedish man anniversary). I really lived it, I prac- Before the movement was But the change has left Spain in 10 days ‘needed’ to tically lived in Sol,” 55-year-old Asun launched, “we were not aware of who political limbo after coalition talks to Lasaosa told reporters . “But this time, we were: people who can think and form a government collapsed, mean- gets life sentence it’s more of a party.” act”, he said. ing voters will have to go back to the put out tyre dump fire for genocide That year, 21,000 protests took More than two million Spaniards polls in June.

AFP widespread health concerns. The in Rwanda Castilla-La Mancha government had warned that the smoke was “toxic.” The sweetest tweet The massive stack of tyres Reuters MADRID: It could take another 10 started to form in 1990s when a days to put out a huge fire at a tyre company began using the site as a STOCKHOLM: A Swedish court dump near Madrid, regional author- temporary depot for old tyres due to yesterday sentenced a 61-year-old ities said yesterday, though residents be recycled, and it grew from then on. man to life in prison for genocide have already been allowed to return The dump was declared illegal in Rwanda in 1994, second such to the area. and environmental groups had long case brought by the Nordic coun- Some 10,000 people living in warned that it posed a health hazard, try over crimes during the conflict. Sesena town evacuated their homes but authorities only recently started The Stockholm District Court on Friday after the dump went up acting on the problem, inviting bids said Claver Berinkindi, a Swedish in flames after a suspected arson to empty the site and destroy the citizen originally from Rwanda, attack. Spanish authorities allowed tyres at the end of last year. was convicted of genocide and the residents to return home on Sat- Francisco Martinez Arroyo, Cas- gross crime under interna- urday, saying that the toxic fumes tilla-La Mancha’s top environment tional law consisting of murder, billowing from the rubber heap official issued reassurances at a attempted murder and kidnap- posed less of a risk. press conference with his Madrid ping in Rwanda. The regional Castilla-La Mancha counterpart yesterday. “This relates to participation in authorities in a statement estimated “The fire has been mastered and a large number of massacres dur- that “when the fire is completely we are concentrating on the air qual- ing the 1994 genocide where the extinguished (between a week and ity,” Arroyo said, stressing that the defendant had an informal role as ten days) there will still be 30,000 blaze was probably the result of a leader,” the court said. tonnes of tyres able to be recycled arson. Under Swedish law, courts can and reused”. The European Commission has try Swedish citizens and other The blaze broke out before dawn requested information from the nationals for crimes commit- last Friday in the dump that stretches Spanish authorities on landfills and ted abroad. The court said fifteen over 25 acres —equivalent of about dumping sites. crime victims had been awarded 10 rugby fields—and straddles the In a bid to alleviate health con- damages ranging from 3m Rwan- Participants in traditional Finch Manoeuvre stand in front of their fink cages in Benneckenstein, Castilla-La Mancha and Madrid cerns, Madrid’s emergency services dan francs ($3,781) to 10m francs Germany, yesterday. The chaffinches sit in cages and are judged by an expert jury in their ability to regions. have tweeted that air quality meas- ($12,602). It was the first time a sing many stanzas against their winged competitors. The finch custom was once very widespread in A massive black cloud of fumes uring stations in the area continued Swedish court had awarded dam- Germany and is maintained till today in the Harz Mountains. billowed into the air, prompting to give normal readings. ages to victims of genocide. History beckons for Italy’s 116-year-old record breaker

AFP Susannah Mushatt Jones, who died doctor and her few surviving relatives has not left her flat in 25 years. favour of a diet that features at least last week, as the oldest person on that becoming a world-beater has For most of that time, Morano one raw egg a day and regular por- the planet.And on the evidence found boosted her already remarkable vitality. has been visited once a week by her tions of raw minced steak. during visit to her, Morano could very Morano’s extraordinary longev- doctor, Carlo Bava, who broke the In an interview last year Morano VERBANIA, ITALY: As a young well go on long enough to surpass ity—and more broadly Italy’s high record-breaking news to her and attributed her longevity to having left woman in the roaring 1920s, the Jeanne Calment’s record. The French- number of centenarians—is a subject reported that his patient had been a violent husband in 1938, shortly after world’s oldest living person loved to woman died in 1997 at 122 years and of much fascination among scientists. extremely proud to hear it. the death in infancy of her only son. go singing and dancing. 164 days, the oldest recorded age The eldest of eight children, Bava has helped draw world’s It was always an unhappy mar- Now 116-year-old Italian Emma achieved by a human being. Morano was born on November 29, attention to unconventional diet riage. Years before, her true love had (pictured) Morano’s next challenge Clutching an embroidered pillow 1899. She has outlived all her younger which has underpinned—or at least gone off to fight in World War I and is to see in the 2020s and become the she received when she celebrated her siblings. She is now looked after by not prevented—his patient from liv- never came back. Leaving a hus- oldest human being on record. 116th birthday last year, she spoke in a two elderly nieces with the help of a ing to such an old age. band was no easy thing to do in Italy The last known surviving child barely audible but unwavering voice. Colombian carer. Contrary to all received medical in 1930s and Morano had no choice of the 19th century is enjoying the “I’m doing fine, who are you?” she Morano cannot walk, does not see wisdom, Morano has thrived despite but to work in a factory producing jute spotlight after succeeding American said, confirming comments from her well enough to watch television and largely eschewing vegetables in sacks to support herself. 18 TUESDAY 17 MAY 2016 AMERICAS

Democrats use Hillary woos Trump as bogeyman to get wary voters people to vote

Reuters in Bluegrass NEW YORK: Democratic Party activ- ists in some US states are using Donald Trump, the Republican presidential candidate who has stirred con- for a victory here like his one last troversy with his comments about week in neighbouring West Virginia, illegal immigrants and women, as the The Bluegrass State as he battles to keep his long-shot centerpiece of their “get out the vote” holds its primary nomination bid alive. campaign for the November elections. The two states are linked to coal In California, canvassers from the today, and Hillary’s as is much of Appalachia, the largely Orange County Democrats carry pic- rival Bernie Sanders white, long-struggling eastern US tures of Trump when they knock on is gunning for a region where many feel they have doors ahead of the June 7 California been given the cold shoulder in the primary. They ask if people will vote victory like one in lukewarm recovery from the 2007- in the primary, and warn that if they Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton takes a selfie with supporters during a campaign stop at West Virginia, as he 2008 financial crisis. don’t help pick the strongest possi- The Clintons have made sev- the Union of Carpenters and Millwrights Training Centre in Louisville, Kentucky, yesterday. ble Democrat, “this guy will win,” said battles to keep his eral trips to coal country to contain Henry Vandermeir, the local party long-shot nomination the damage from comments Hillary understand that,” she added. to power our factories, to build the big- working-class whites. chairman in Orange County, a tradi- made in March, when she said she With the Democratic nomination in gest economic engine and middle class “They see through her,” said real tionally Republican island in the state. bid alive. aimed to “put a lot of coal companies sight, Clinton is no doubt repositioning the world had ever seen,” she said. “And estate manager Bill Dunn, speaking of Democrats in New Hampshire and coal miners out of business.” herself for a bruising general election we can’t and we must not walk away blue-collar workers, as he ate dinner have unveiled Trump/Sununu lawn That stung for many in Appala- campaign battle against Republican pre- from them.” at a barbecue joint in Paducah, a city signs, looking to tie Republican guber- AFP chia in particular, and she has sought sumptive nominee Donald Trump. Truman Burden, a retired pipe-fit- in southwestern Kentucky. natorial candidate Chris Sununu to the amends on the campaign trail. After the better part of a year try- ter and a one-time coal miner, said in “They like honesty, and she’s miss- presumptive Republican presidential “It’s important to say that there ing to win over the party’s liberal wing, Louisville he hoped to steer his former ing that.” nominee on issues such as climate are a lot of people in our country she has broadened her economic mes- colleagues away from Trump. “What Clinton’s West Virginia loss to change (Trump is a sceptic) and health- PADUCAH, UNITED STATES: No who are feeling frustrated, they’re sage and turned to blue-collar voters. I’m trying to tell blue-collar workers Sanders was a sober reckoning for a care.One sign reads: “Trump/Sununu. Democratic presidential candidate feeling anxious—some of them are “They’re not giving up on Ken- is, you know where Bill Clinton and candidate who crushed Obama there Because Health Care Is For Losers,” has won Kentucky since 1980 except feeling angry—that they are not yet tucky—not now, not in November, Hillary Clinton stand,” he said. “If you in 2008. One Clinton strategy appears a swipe at Trump’s vow to repeal the Hillary Clinton’s husband Bill, but recovered from the great reces- not ever,” local congressman John want to take a chance on an unknown, to be to target voters who have been Affordable Care Act, President Barack she is treating the state as an oppor- sion,” she told a get-out-the-vote Yarmouth, speaking of the Clintons, then you may have buyer’s remorse.” turned off by Trump’s harsh rhetoric Obama’s signature healthcare law. tunity to appeal to a demographic rally early yesterday in Fort Mitch- told a union-heavy crowd in Louis- Exit polls in several states have and policy positions. “Every state party is trying to max- that has consistently snubbed her: ell, in northern Kentucky. ville before the former first lady spoke. shown Hillary losing white male vote “This is scary, dangerous talk. imise what they can get out of this working-class white men. “That they’re not yet on a path In Fort Mitchell she noted how she by substantial numbers to Sanders. This is the talk of a loose cannon difference (between candidates) and to The Bluegrass State holds its that they can see will take them and has time and again pledged to help In a November face-off, Trump who is making statements and cre- tie Trump to Republicans in the state,” Democratic primary today, and Clin- their families into a more prosper- coal country. “They made it possible for appears destined to hold an advan- ating confusion,” Clinton said. “We said Holly Shulman, a spokeswoman ton’s rival Bernie Sanders is gunning ous future, and I think we have to us to industrialise, to turn on the lights, tage over Clinton, at least initially, with can’t afford that.” for New Hampshire Democratic Party. Obama slams Trump in speech: ‘Ignorance is not a virtue’

AFP Obama did not specifically “The good old days were not all that to keep illegal immigrants out. melting pot,” Obama said. “In politics and in life, ignorance name the brash New York real estate good,” as he pointed out problems Obama noted that no wall could “It contradicts the evidence that is not a virtue. It’s not cool to not developer during his remarks at a uni- with racial discrimination, poverty stop outbreaks of infectious diseases our growth and our innovation and know what you’re talking about,” he versity graduation ceremony in New and lack of equality for women. like Ebola and Zika, or help the United our dynamism has always been said. “That’s not challenging political WASHINGTON: US President Barack Jersey early yesterday, but it was clear “The world is more interconnected States remain competitive in a time of spurred by our ability to attract striv- correctness. That’s just not knowing Obama criticised the populist cam- he was referring to the candidate who than ever before and it is becoming globalisation. “Suggesting that we can ers from every corner of the globe.” what you’re talking about.” Obama was paign of Republican presidential is running on a slogan of “Make Amer- more connected every day. Building build an endless wall along our bor- The US president also denounced speaking to students at Rutgers Univer- hopeful Donald Trump, decrying ica Great Again!” walls won’t change things,” Obama ders and blame our challenges on politicians who hold themselves up as sity, about one hour from New York. He “anti-intellectualism” and noting that He told students not to pine for an said, an apparent jab at Trump’s calls immigrants, that does not just run examples of straight-talkers but shun wore a red and black gown and received “ignorance is not a virtue.” American golden age of years past, saying, for a wall along the US-Mexico border counter to our history as the world political correctness. an honorary degree from the school.

Woman rushed to hospital Brick-by-brick Former Argentine leader tells court with shark stuck to arm son was killed by

AFP and are normally peaceful creatures. Hezbollah But one witness said before the attack he saw swimmers bothering the shark and holding it by the tail. AP MIAMI: A woman in Florida was The victim was initially calm rushed to a hospital early yesterday when she approached a lifeguard after being bitten by a shark—with station at the Red Reef Park beach BUENOS AIRES: Former Argen- the whole animal still clutching on to seeking help. A male companion tine President Carlos Menem said her right arm, local media reported. was holding the shark and there was he believes his son was killed by The small nurse shark, which little blood, Tracy said. the Lebanon-based militant group was about two feet long, was killed “It was barely breathing but it Hezbollah, which prosecutors also by a beachgoer soon after the attack. wasn’t letting go of her arm, like it suspect was behind two 1990s The victim was an unidentified was stuck to her or something,” wit- bombings in Buenos Aires. 23-year-old woman who was bit- ness Shlomo Jacob said. In testimony to a judge over- ten while bathing at a beach in the As time went by and a crowd seeing the investigation of his coastal city of Boca Raton, city fire- gathered, the woman became agi- son’s death 21 years ago, Menem rescue spokesman Bob Lemons said. tated and when paramedics arrived said that then-Foreign Minister Lemons said the woman was they gave her oxygen. Guido Di Tella had told him he rushed to regional hospital with the Then they used a board to sup- heard through foreign embassies shark still attached to her right fore- port her arm and the shark, placed of Hezbollah’s alleged involvement. arm. “I have never seen anything like her on a stretcher and drove to the But Menem, who was president it,” Ocean Rescue Captain Clint Tracy hospital, Tracy said. from 1989-1999 and is currently a said. “Never even heard of anything According to the Shark Research A worker sets bricks to construct a new structure at the new fish market in Pedernales, Ecuador, senator, did not give further details like this.” Institute, nurse sharks are nocturnal yesterday. The building will replace the one that was destroyed in the earthquake that shook the city or any evidence for the claim. Nurse sharks, which can grow to creatures, and are often found lying on April 16, 2016, and will be the ‘first stone’ of the new city that will be rebuilt after the disaster that Carlos Facundo Menem was 26 up to 10 feet in length, are common motionless on the ocean floor in killed around 660 people on the northern coast of Ecuador. when the helicopter he was piloting along Florida’s Atlantic coastline, rocky coastal areas during the day. crashed on March 15, 1995. Menem and his ex-wife have long said they believed their son was slain. Argentine prosecutors believe Hezbollah and Iran were respon- Challenge to protest ban on Supreme Court plaza rejected sible for the 1992 bombing of the Israeli embassy in Buenos Aires and the 1994 bombing of a Jewish community centre that killed 85 Reuters the protests does not violate the guar- plaza with a 2-by-3-feet sign hanging organisation or movement.” Srinivasan wrote that the plaza people in the worst terrorist attack antee of freedom of speech under the from his neck. Hodge was approached Hodge’s suit said he wanted to is not a traditional public forum. The on the nation. US Constitution’s First Amendment. by a police officer who told him he “engage in peaceful, non-disruptive government “can impose reasona- Both bombings occurred while The court often attracts protesters, was violating the law, issued him political speech and expression” and ble restrictions on speech as long as Menem was president of Argen- WASHINGTON: The US Supreme particularly on days when it hears cases three warnings to leave, then hand- that the law violated his First Amend- it refrains from suppressing particular tina, which has the largest Jewish Court yesterday rejected a challenge on social issues. Protesters are allowed cuffed and arrested him when he ment rights. viewpoints,” Srinivasan wrote, add- population of any country in Latin to a law that hits the justices close to to gather on the sidewalk in front of refused, according to court papers. The appeals court ruling against ing that protesters can still make their America. home: a ban on protests on the marble the courthouse but not on the plaza, The law made it unlawful “to Hodge was written by Judge Sri voices heard from the sidewalk area. Many Argentines believe plaza in front of the courthouse where which is considered part of courthouse parade, stand or move in processions Srinivasan, who President Barack The appeals court reversed a the bombings were triggered by they hear cases and issue rulings. grounds and is reached by walking up or assemblages in the Supreme Court Obama considered nominating to the 2013 ruling by US District Judge Beryl Menem’s decision to bolster the The court left in place a 2015 rul- several steps from the sidewalk. building or grounds” or to “display in Supreme Court following the Febru- Powell who wrote that the law was country’s relations with the United ing by the US Court of Appeals for the A Maryland man Harold Hodge the building and grounds a flag, ban- ary death of Justice Antonin Scalia “unreasonable, substantially over- States while withdrawing support District of Columbia Circuit, which challenged the law after being ner or device designed or adapted before picking the same appeals broad and irreconcilable with the for Iran’s ambitions to develop said the 1949 federal law prohibiting arrested in 2011 for standing in the to bring into public notice a party, court’s chief judge, Merrick Garland. First Amendment.” nuclear technology. AMERICAS TUESDAY 17 MAY 2016 1917 Protests in Brazil cloud Temer’s political honeymoon

reverse Rousseff’s leftist course in an used to dog Rousseff to the point attempt to haul Brazil back from its where she began avoiding broadcast The 75-year-old deepest recession in decades. appearances. centre-right leader Although a cabinet—which will Street protests also took place be reduced from a bloated 32 minis- in several cities, including the capi- has vowed to reverse tries to 23 -- has already been named, tal Brasilia and the financial centre Rousseff’s leftist there was a delay to the nomination Sao Paulo. Another was held yester- course in an attempt in the key post of central bank head. day in Rio de Janeiro, which hosts New Finance Minister Henrique the Olympics in less than three to haul Brazil back Meirelles, whose early pronounce- months. Activists occupied offices from its deepest ments are being carefully watched of the education and culture minis- by the markets, had been due to tries, which are being merged under recession in decades. announce the nominee Monday but Temer’s plan. put it off for a day, Brazilian newspa- Although the scale of opposition pers reported. demonstrations is so far modest, In an interview, Temer vowed Rousseff’s fight against impeachment AFP to unite Brazil after months of in the Senate trial, which could take as increasingly divisive debate over long as six months, means that Temer the impeachment of Rousseff, who is having trouble settling in. accuses Temer of leading a coup. “The popular reaction to the coup BRASÍLIA: Street protests and con- “Unification of the country means continues and the protests should troversy over the absence of female unifying political parties, employ- continue,” Rui Falcao, president of ministers clouded Brazilian acting ers and workers, and making a joint Rousseff’s Workers’ Party, said yes- President Michel Temer’s political effort in Brazilian society so that we terday. Polls show Temer is almost as honeymoon yesterday as he began can get out of the crisis we find our- unpopular as Rousseff. his first full week in power. selves in,” he said. But just days into His naming of a cabinet com- Demonstrators hold a banner reading ‘Yes women can!’ in a protest against Brazil›s acting president Michel Temer took over from president the job, Temer finds himself under prised entirely of white men has put Temer in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Dilma Rousseff last week after the steady attack from the left. him on the defensive. Senate voted to open an impeach- Jeering and pot banging could In his interview he looked to level. But his reference to women Another hurdle facing Temer is to slash up to 5,000 civil service jobs ment trial on charges that she illegally be heard in parts of Rio de Janeiro sidestep the controversy, insisting as “representatives of the feminine to make good on his promise to cut and says that he, unlike Rousseff, is in manipulated the budget. The 75-year- and Sao Paulo during his televi- that women would be given power- world” prompted derision on oppo- costs and streamline the overbur- a position to deal with Congress over old centre-right leader has vowed to sion interview, a form of protest that ful posts, although not at ministerial sition social media. dened state budget. He has promised unpopular budget reductions. FARC rebels to remove child soldiers from its ranks Venezuela braces

AFP never wanted to recruit children to fight, but did accept into their ranks for more upheaval orphans and victims of domestic abuse. Many of the group’s adult fight- HAVANA: Colombia’s Marxist FARC ers joined when they were minors. rebels agreed early yesterday to The guerrillas said separately that AFP remove child soldiers from their 21 FARC members under the age of 15 ranks as part of peace deal they are had already been released. close to signing with the government. The FARC announced in Febru- The Revolutionary Armed Forces ary 2015 that it had stopped accepting CARACAS: Venezuela braced yester- of Colombia (FARC) agreed to “imple- recruits under the age of 17, and a year day for more upheaval as President ment departure of those under 15 later said it had banned all recruits Nicolas Maduro (pictured) prepared years of age as soon as terms are under the age of 18. to unveil scope of a new emergency agreed upon,” the parties said in a According to government figures, decree and the opposition readied statement from Cuba, which is host- authorities have taken some 6,000 protests against what it calls a bid to ing peace negotiations. The FARC-EP leftist guerrilla commander Ivan Marquez (left) and the children from illegal armed groups cling to power. Terms must still be set on how head of the Colombian delegation to the peace talks Humberto de la over the past 17 years, more than half The leftist leader has so far given the children will be transitioned and Calle shake hands during a press conference in Havana. of them coming from the FARC. few details on the state of emergency reintegrated back into society. Present at the announcement was he declared, beyond vowing to seize Talks remain underway over the Juan Manuel Santos negotiate terms of to their families. Lead government Algerian-born Leila Zerrougui, UN factories he claims have been para- fate of FARC members between the a definitive ceasefire, one of the last negotiator Humberto de la Calle said Secretary General Ban Ki-moon’s lyzed by the “bourgeoisie” in order emergency would initially apply ages of 15 and 18, as well as those major points before a peace deal can the agreement was “a crucial advance special representative for Children to exacerbate the shortages desta- for three months, but that he would under the age of 15 involved in war be struck to end-running civil war. in the process of putting a full stop to and Armed Conflict. bilizing the country. likely extend it through 2017. crimes, the statement said. “We reached a historic agreement the war.” The two sides did not state Zerrougui urged the FARC to Supermarket and pharmacy The company seizures could News of the agreement comes as in Havana to get children out of the how many minors would be exiting “begin as soon as possible to imple- shelves have gone increasingly bare notably affect the Polar group, Ven- the FARC and representatives of the war,” Santos wrote on Twitter, add- the FARC’s ranks. ment” the agreement and release the in recent months as the oil-depend- ezuela’s biggest food and beverage Colombian government of President ing that the youths would be sent back The 7,000-strong FARC said they children. ent economy has imploded, reducing company, which halted beer produc- Venezuelans to standing in line for tion on April 30, saying it had run hours to buy groceries. out of barley. An electricity crisis and drought Venezuelan businesses say they Dominican Republic have added to the chaos, forcing are currently operating at less than Chicago area police search for Maduro’s government to decree daily 45 percent capacity because the gov- incumbent Medina power cuts across most of the coun- ernment will not allow them to buy try, close schools on Fridays and cut increasingly scarce dollars to pay set for landslide government employees’ workweek their foreign suppliers. missing singer Sinead O’Connor to two days in a bid to save power. One-fourth of all industrial firms Maduro was due to publish the are at risk of being seized, according decree explaining the emergency to opposition lawmaker Jose Guerra. AFP Reuters Wilmette area for a bicycle ride at supplied drugs to Prince for years. order. Legal experts have said it Maduro has also ordered mil- 6am local time and has not returned, Followers on O’Connor’s Face- could impose limits on protests, itary exercises for Saturday to the police said. A caller expressed book page early yesterday asked authorise preventive arrests and prepare for what he calls the threat SANTO DOMINGO: President concern for her well-being. Police where she was, requested she seek allow warrantless police raids. of an armed intervention backed by Danilo Medina appeared on CHICAGO: Irish singer Sinead said they did not know O’Connor’s help and call police. The opposition is meanwhile the United States at the behest of the track yesterday for a landslide O’Connor was being sought by Chi- connection to Wilmette. “Sweetheart, please contact organising mass protests for tomor- “fascist Venezuelan right.” re-election win in the Domini- cago-area police after she was The singer received medical treat- someone, and let them know where row demanding the authorities allow Maduro, the hand-picked suc- can Republic, capitalising on an reported missing early yesterday ment last November, after a message you are, there are a lot of people them to call a referendum on remov- cessor of the late Hugo Chavez, has economic boom despite the fact when she did not return from a bicy- that she had taken a drug overdose was worried about you xx,” wrote Victo- ing Maduro from office, in line with presided over a collapse of Venezue- that millions of citizens still live cle ride to where she was staying in posted on her Facebook page. Earlier ria Le-Fort. the constitution. Police and soldiers la’s economy since he took charge in poverty. the suburb of Wilmette. this month, comedian Arsenio Hall “If the reports are true that you’re used tear gas to break up similar in 2013. With just over half the results Police in Wilmette said they are filed a $5m defamation lawsuit against suicidal, please, PLEASE do not take protests last week. The global plunge in oil prices, in from Sunday’s election, Medina “seeking to check the well-being” of O’Connor, who accused him of supply- your life. You are ... you. Forget the “The opposition knows protests three years of recession, inflation won 62 percent of the vote, accord- the musician who topped the charts ing drugs to musician Prince, whose fame and the BS. You’re important are the only mechanism to increase projected to rise to as much as 700 ing to official figures—putting him around the world 26 years ago with a death on April 21 has prompted spec- because you are you. A human being,” pressure (on Maduro), and the gov- percent this year, shortages, crime, on track for the biggest-ever win in cover of Prince’s song Nothing Com- ulation about an overdose. Katie Lear posted. Other commenters ernment needs to stop that trend,” looting and water and electricity a Dominican presidential election. pares 2 U. O’Connor posted a note on questioned whether her disappear- political analyst Benigno Alarcon said. rationing have all fueled public anger It seemed certain that Medina, O’Connor, 49, reportedly left the her Facebook page claiming Hall ance was a publicity stunt. Maduro said the state of against the 53-year-old president. a member of the Party of Domini- can Liberation (PLD), would avoid a runoff vote with his nearest rival, Luis Abinader of the Modern Rev- olutionary Party (PRM), who was holding steady at 35 percent of the Colombian police seize record-breaking cocaine cache vote. “I voted for continuity. Danilo needs another four years to AFP Soon after sunrise, 50 police com- cocaine were wrapped “and ready improve safety and work with mandos supported by two Black Hawk to go out to the export market.” the schools,” Roxana Almonte, a helicopters burst into the plantation. He said the drugs had “a New York 58-year-old secretary at a school There they found 359 can- street value” of $250m. in downtown Santo Domingo, told BOGOTA: Colombian police have vas sacks loaded with packs of Villegas confirmed this was the reporters on voting day. seized eight tonnes of cocaine from cocaine hidden in a small cubicle largest seizure ever of cocaine on Medina’s centrist PLD party the country’s main organised crime under a cement cover 2.5 metres Colombian territory, though there has been in power for 12 years ring, the largest ever haul in the underground. may have been slightly larger sei- in the Spanish-speaking coun- nation’s history, the president said. Police said that the drugs zures at sea. try, which shares the Caribbean “Congratulations @PoliciaColom- belonged to one Colombia’s most Authorities say the Usuga Clan, island of Hispaniola with its trou- bia: operation in Turbo have seized the notorious criminals: Roberto Vargas which emerged after the mass demo- bled neighbour, Haiti. largest amount in our history. A crush- Gutierrez, alias Gavilan (meaning bilization of right-wing paramilitaries The president had been ing blow to the criminals,” President “hawk” in English), the clan’s number a decade ago, ships tons of cocaine favoured to beat his seven rivals, Juan Manuel Santos said on Twitter. two man. from Colombia to Central America especially since the breakup Police said they found the cache Three suspects were arrested and and on to the United States. of the once powerful Domini- “of approximately eight tonnes of another three escaped, the police The Uraba border region where can Revolutionary Party (PRD). cocaine belonging to the Usuga Clan” statement read. the latest haul was seized has a A Colombian police officer stands guard over eight tonnes of seized Abinader, 48, belongs to a break- hidden in a banana plantation in Defence Minister Luis Carlos Vil- long history of smuggling and drug cocaine. off PRD faction. Turbo near the Panamanian border. legas said that nearly 1.5 tonnes of trafficking.

PRAYER TIMINGS WEATHER Minimum: 28o C Maximum: 39o C

FAJR 03.23 am ZUHR 11.30 am MAGHRIB 06.14 pm HIGH TIDE 01:00 - 15:30 Hazy to misty at places at first with some SHOROOK 04.48 am ASR 02.57 pm ISHA 07.44 pm LOW TIDE 08:30 - 20:15 clouds.

20 TUESDAY 17 MAY 2016 MORNING BREAK

ONLINE CHART BUST Dreams could be For the sparkle www.thepeninsulaqatar.com key to memory formation: Study MOST READ IANS Iran cracks down on Instagram modelling, 1 8 arrested TORONTO: For decades, scientists have Arab sensation Mohammed Assaf performs at fiercely debated whether rapid eye move- 2 Katara for unveiling of ‘Largest Key in the World’ ment sleep — the phase where dreams appear — is directly involved in memory Comoros ready to take Kuwait formation. Now, a study provides evidence 3 stateless: minister that this is indeed the case. Poor sleep quality is increasingly asso- ciated with the onset of various brain disorders such as Alzheimer's and Par- TWEET OF THE DAY kinson's disease. Results from this study, published in the journal Science, suggest that disrup- tion in this important phase of sleep may contribute directly to memory impair- ment observed in Alzheimer's disease, the researchers said. "We were able to prove for the first time that REM sleep is indeed critical for normal spatial memory formation in mice," said study co-author Sylvain Wil- Visitors try the Magic White teeth whitening treatment system at Beautyworld Japan in Tokyo yesterday. liams, professor at McGill University in Montreal, Canada. This phase of sleep is Beautyworld Japan is the largest international trade show for the beauty and spa industries in Japan, understood to be a critical component of showcasing 530 exhibitors from 14 different countries and regions. sleep in all mammals, including humans. For the study, the researchers used optogenetics, a recently developed tech- nology that enables scientists to target precisely a number of neurons and control their activity by light. "We chose to target ISS orbits Earth for 100,000th time neurons that regulate the activity of the INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY hippocampus, a structure that is critical for memory formation during wakeful- ness and is known as the 'GPS system' of AFP station with fellow Nasa astro- cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. the brain," Williams said. naut Timothy Kopra, Britain’s The station is usually occu- To test the long-term spatial memory Tim Peake and Russians Yury pied by six crew members while the of mice, the scientists trained the rodents Malenchenko, Alexey Ovchinin and Soyuz capsules used to transport to spot a new object placed in a control- MOSCOW: The International Space Oleg Skripochka. Maxim Matyushin, the astronauts from Earth and back led environment where two objects of Station, the space laboratory that the head of Russian mission control, carry three people. During its life- A bee sucking similar shape and volume stand. When showcases cooperation between Rus- also praised the ISS as a “vivid exam- time, 226 people have visited the ISS honey from a these mice were in REM sleep, however, sia and the United States, yesterday ple of real and effective international from 15 countries, Russian mission flower. the researchers used light pulses to turn orbited Earth for the 100,000th time, cooperation” to “carry out really large control said. The ISS is expected to Photographer: Shaji Panicker off their memory-associated neurons Russian mission control said. breakthrough projects that are cru- remain operational until 2024 after to determine if it affects their memory “Today the ISS made its hundred cial for the whole of civilisation.” all the participating countries except consolidation. thousandth orbit around Earth,” the The first section of the ISS sta- the European Union agreed to con- mission control centre based in the tion called Zarya or Dawn in Russian, tinue financing it at least until then. Moscow region said in a statement. was launched into space more than Meanwhile, Canadian astronaut Travelling at an altitude of 17 years ago on November 20, 1998. David Saint-Jacques will travel to about 400km and a speed of about The first crew to inhabit the station the ISS for a six-month mission in Nasa eyes ‘growable habitats’ to take humans to Mars 28,000km per hour, the space station — American astronaut Bill Shepherd late 2018, Science Minister Navdeep circles the Earth once every 90 min- and Russian cosmonauts Sergei Kri- Bains said. Saint-Jacques is scheduled IANS study. It will allow proposers to fur- concepts, including an interplanetary utes. Its “anniversary orbit” lasted from kalev and Yuri Gidzenko — arrived to take off aboard a Russian Soyuz ther develop concepts funded by Nasa habitat configured to induce deep 7:35am to 9:10am Moscow time (0435 in 2000, since when it has been con- rocket in November 2018 on what for Phase I studies that successfully sleep for astronauts on long-dura- to 0610 GMT), mission control said. tinually occupied. will be his first assignment in space. demonstrated initial feasibility and tion missions. It also has plans for The ISS has now travelled 2.6 bil- From two modules, it has grown The 46-year-old will start train- WASHINGTON: In a bid to develop benefit. a highly efficient dual aircraft plat- lion miles “or about the distance of 10 to 15 modules, occupying a space the ing for the mission this summer in “magnetoshells” to “growable inter- “The NIAC programme is one of form that may be able to stay aloft round trips to Mars,” Nasa said on the size of a football pitch and represents Russia, Japan, the United States and planetary habitats to take humans the ways Nasa engages the US scien- for weeks or even months at a time. station’s official Twitter feed. around $100bn in investment. “Such Canada. An astrophysicist and doc- to Mars”, the US space agency has tific and engineering communities Phase II includes a method to “This is a significant milestone a long lifespan of the ISS proves that tor-in-training, Saint-Jacques will selected eight technology proposals by challenging them to come up with produce “solar white” coatings for and is a tribute to this international mankind has the necessary technol- become the ninth Canadian to go into that can transform future aerospace some of the most visionary aerospace scattering sunlight and cooling fuel partnership made up of the European ogies for constant presence in orbit, space and seventh to work aboard missions by building efficient aero- concepts,” said Steve Jurczyk, asso- tanks in space down to 148 degree Space Agency, of Russia, Canada, that we have the potential for further the ISS. During his mission, he will space systems. ciate administrator of NASA’s Space Celsius below zero with no energy Japan and the United States,” US flight space exploration,” said Matyushin. conduct a series of scientific experi- Awards under phase II of the Technology Mission Directorate in input needed. Nasa selected eight engineer Jeff Williams said from the Since the shelving of the US shut- ments, robotics tasks and technology NASA Innovative Advanced Concepts Washington, DC. projects through a peer-review proc- station in a video posted by Nasa. tle programme, Russia has been demonstrations, details of which will (NIAC) programme can be worth as This year’s phase II portfolio ess that evaluated innovativeness and Williams is on his third ISS mis- solely responsible for ferrying astro- be announced later this year, the much as $500,000 for a two-year addresses a range of leading-edge technical viability. sion and is currently on board the nauts to the ISS from its Baikonur Canadian Space Agency said.

Streisand plans Lit up smiles Rare collection of Monroe’s new album belongings to be auctioned

NEW YORK: Barbra Stre- AFP Monroe ever. This diverse collection isand, one of the most enduring gives us a most intimate glimpse US entertainers, yesterday of the screen legend,” said Martin announced a new album featur- Nolan, executive director of Julien’s ing duets of Broadway musical LOS ANGELES: A trove of Marilyn Auctions. numbers with Hollywood stars. Monroe’s belongings including hand- Bidders will also have a chance Streisand revealed the album, written letters, shoes and jewellery is to buy a number of revealing doc- entitled “Encore: Movie Partners expected to fetch up to $4m when it uments, including a taxi receipt Sing Broadway,” as she scheduled goes under the hammer in Los Ange- from 1960, tax returns, recipes and a tour of North American arenas les in November. a cheque book containing filled out throughout August in which she More than 500 lots of her personal stubs from 1962 -- the year she died. will perform some of the songs. possessions —the largest collection The collection will tour Europe, The singer’s management did ever offered for auction — are being Asia, South America and the US not reveal the release date of the sold by the estate of her acting coach, before being sold off on November album or her collaborators but said Lee Strasberg, who died in 1982. 19 and 20. Monroe, one of the world’s she would sing Broadway classics The collection includes an alli- most bankable stars before her death with “some of Hollywood’s biggest gator skin men’s accessory case aged just 36 in Los Angeles, remains stars.” It will be the third album owned by Monroe’s second husband, at the top of the list for collectors of of Broadway classics by Streisand, the baseball legend Joe DiMaggio, celebrity memorabilia. who had her start on the New York as well as a number of Monroe’s Julien’s Auctions announced in stage before becoming a lead- handbags, fur coats, cigarettes and April it would be offering a selec- ing force both in film and music. a tube of used Revlon lipstick dated tion of the star’s costumes, personal Children play with inflatable balls in the Light Ball Orchestra pit at the teamLab Islands: Dance! Art Streisand’s last album, “Partners,” from 1947. gowns and jewelry valued at $3m, came out in 2014 and consisted of Museum, Learn & Play! Interactive Theme Park in Bangkok yesterday. “This is one of the most impor- including the cocktail dress she wore duets with an all-male lineup. tant and historic auctions of Marilyn in “Some Like It Hot”. www.thepeninsulaqatar.com

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TUESDAY 17 MAY 2016 • 10 SHA’BAAN 1437 thepeninsulaqatar @peninsulaqatar @peninsula_qatar

Dr Al Sada reaffirms commitment to Qatarisation

more job opportunities available to The Minister appreciated the Qatari nationals than ever before.” efforts taken by large number of com- Minister says energy “Under the wise direction and panies to educate and equip young sector is committed leadership of His Highness the Emir, Qataris to take up growing job oppor- Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, tunities in various sectors. to Qatar’s ongoing Qatar National Vision 2030 strongly Dr Al Sada also used the occa- endeavour to create advocates the development of human sion to recognise three individuals a strong knowledge- capital to build a strong knowledge who contributed immensely to sup- based economy…We must continue the port Qatarization in the energy and based economy, effort to attract, motivate, develop and industry sector over the years. They retain Qatari nationals”, he said. included Dr. Sheika Al-Misnad, former The meeting was also attended president of Qatar University, Abu- by Saad Sherida Al-Kaabi, President bakr Al-Saiari and Roger Gregson, The Peninsula and Chief Executive Officer of Qatar both from Qatar Petroleum. Petroleum; as well as senior execu- As part of the event, a high-level tives and representatives from the 37 review of Qatarization in the sector DOHA: H E Dr Mohammed bin Saleh participating companies in the sec- was presented by three young Qataris, Al Sada, Minister of Energy and Indus- tor’s Strategic Qatarization Plan. Also . Mais Taha, Reservoir Engineer from try, has said that the country’s energy present during the event were sen- Maersk Oil Qatar; Mohammed Essa sector is committed to Qatar’s ongoing ior executives from Qatar’s education Al-Kaabi, Human Resources Man- endeavour to create a strong knowl- community. ager of (Nakilat); and Mohammed H E Dr Mohammed bin Saleh Al-Sada, Minister of Energy and Industry, with other officials during the 16th edge-based economy, despite the Dr Al Sada, who stressed on the Al-Amadi, Operating Specialist at annual Qatarisation review meeting of energy and industry sector, economic slowdown. importance of technical education, Q-Chem. This was followed by an Delivering the keynote address said there is a need to build strong Executive Statistical Report regard- excellence in 2015. Qatar General Electricity and water Inc. for Supporting Student Sponsor- during the 16th annual Qatarisa- bonds between educational insti- ing Qatarisation in the energy and The recipients of the prestigious Corporation (KAHRAMAA) for Best ships. The highlight of the event was tion review meeting of energy and tutions and the companies in the industry sector. Qatarization Crystal Awards were Qatarization Progress. honouring the former chairman of industry sector, the minister said:” sector to ensure that the educational The 16th Annual Qatarisation Qatar Petrochemical Company Ltd Annual Qatarisation Certificates the Strategic Qatarization Commit- The current economic climate should requirements of the companies are Review Meeting also featured the (QAPCO) for Support and Liaison were also presented to Qatar Ferti- tee Abubakr Al Saiari who has served not blur our vision, or restrain our met. This has already resulted in many sector’s Eight Annual Qatarisation with the Education Sector; Maersk lizer company (QAFCO) for Support 42 years in the service of Qatar Petro- aspirations to realise our Qatarisa- companies signing memorandum of Awards ceremony, during which Dr. Oil Qatar for Supporting Qatarization; and Liaison with the Education Sec- leum with continuous dedication and tion goals. Let me assure you that understandings (MOUs) with educa- Al-Sada accompanied by Mr. Saad Bunduq Company Limited for Sup- tor; Qatar Fuel Company (WOQOOD) outstanding commitment to Qatar- despite the current economic down- tional institutions to assist in research Sherida Al-Kaabi, President and CEO port for Training and Development, for Supporting Qatarization; Total E&P ization in the Energy and Industry turn, Qatar’s economy is healthy and and to contribute in evaluating the of Qatar Petroleum, honoured com- Dolphin Energy Limited for Sup- Qatar for Support for Training and sector, and 15 years at the helm of expanding. Today, there are many curriculum of educational institutions. panies that exhibited Qatarization porting Student Sponsorships; and, Development; and ExxonMobile Qatar the committee. Gold recovers Doha Bank to open two more branches in India Turki Mohamed from losses Al Khater

LONDON: Gold rose one percent Vice-Chairman of yesterday, recovering from its big- By Sachin Kumar Bank, told The Peninsula on the side- system, will be between 6-7 percent,” Masraf Al Rayan gest weekly loss since mid-March, The Peninsula lines of the bank’s Ordinary General he said. “Banks’ credit has grown in as stock markets eased after soft Assembly held recently. “The sec- the first three months, all banks put Chinese data, boosting interest in ond branch is in Mumbai. We might together, by around 3 percent and we The Peninsula the metal as an alternative asset. request for relocating because we have grown in a very similar synchro- Spot gold was up 1 percent DOHA: Doha Bank will strengthen already have a big branch in Mum- nised form,” he added. at $1,286.01 an ounce at 1342 its presence in India by opening two bai,” he added. Last week, Doha Bank got share- GMT, while US gold futures for more branches soon. The bank is Doha Bank commenced Indian holders approval to raise up to $5bn DOHA: The Board of Directors June delivery were up $15.20 at expecting to open the first branch operations last year by opening through Certificate of Deposits (CDs) of Masraf Al Rayan, in its meet- $1,287.90. by mid this year while it is plan- its first branch in Mumbai - India’s and Commercial Papers (CPs). The ing held yesterday, has elected The metal ended last ning to relocate the second branch. financial capital. bank plans to issue CDs worth $3bn Turki Mohamed Al Khater as Vice week down 1.2 percent after a Doha Bank had acquired these two “Relocation of the second branch and CPs worth $2bn to meet its liquid- Chairman of the Board. Al Khater sharp midweek slide, though it branches from HSBC Bank Oman in depends on regulators. We have not $2bn in India in 2015 which it wants to ity requirements. is representing the General Retire- rebounded 0.8 percent on Friday. 2014. given our preference for location yet increase to $5bn in next three years. “Oil prices are recovering now, ment & Social Insurance Authority The metal is being supported “We have one branch in India and are working on it. Our India oper- Doha Bank has grown around which is going to stimulate the econ- of Qatar, one of the main founders by “sluggish stock markets, the US and another two are coming up. One ations are doing well. Our model is three percent in the three months of omy. Liquidity has been a challenge of Masraf Al Rayan. dollar not really doing anything branch will come up in Kochi in Ker- not to compete with Indian banks, current year, matching overall credit because of the deflection in oil prices. worthwhile, (and) the negative ala which we will inaugurate around (but with) GCC banks operating in growth in the country. “Qatar GDP Each bank and institution is making interest rate environment,” MKS’s July-August,” Dr R Seetharaman (pic- India,” said Seetharaman. itself is growing over 3 percent. So their own arrangements,” he said. Oil prices hit head of trading Afshin Nabavi said. tured), Chief Executive Officer, Doha The bank had exposure of over the credit expansion, as a whole for 2016 highs

LONDON: Oil prices hit new 2016 highs yesterday, as a slowdown Elan Group and US Life Nation win tender for sports arenas in US drilling added to growing expectations the global supply glut will gradually disappear. Brent North Sea crude reached The Peninsula a public tender for the management international tournaments, which development activities of the state. and creating a family environment $49.47 a barrel and US benchmark and operation of ‘Lusail and ‘Ali bin makes it imperative to use this large The Minister pointed out that throughout the year in addition to West Texas Intermediate (WTI) Hamad Al Attiyah’ multi-purpose number of sports facilities in a prac- the move is a measured and stra- reducing the government operat- achieved $47.85 -- the highest levels sports facilities. tical way. tegic one to enhance cooperation ing expenses, providing a futuristic since early November. Later around DOHA: Qatar’s Elan Group and US Some 15 international and local The Minister said in a press state- between different parties in the com- road map to prepare for the World 1630 GMT, WTI for delivery in June Life Nation Company have suc- companies applied to get the ten- ment yesterday that the opening of munity in order to provide everything Cup 2022. stood at $47.66, up $1.45 compared cessfully won the public tender for der documents, while four technical these facilities to the private sector that would sustain cooperation in the The Minister noted that the same with Friday’s close. Brent for July operating Lusail and Ali bin Hamad Al and financial firms submitted bids confirms Qatar’s support for the pri- implementation of development plans. will be applied on in a number of jumped $1.28 to $49.11. Attiyah multi-purpose sports arenas. before the closing date on February vate sector to participate in national He explained that the work team sports facilities in the future such as US oilfield services firm Baker This comes within the framework 22, reports QNA. development, in accordance with the has prepared a comprehensive study Lusail International Circuit in accord- Hughes said that the number of US of the Ministry of Culture and Sports’ The Minister of Culture and directives of the Emir H H Sheikh to get international expertise for the ance with Qatar National Vision 2030. drilling rigs fell to its lowest level strategy towards achieving efficiency, Sports, H E Salah bin Ghanim Al Ali, Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, and the management and operation of each He commended the efforts of since October 2009, handing a fur- effectiveness, sustainability and opti- affirmed the Ministry’s keenness on follow-up of the Prime Minister and of the two arenas. the working team, stressing that the ther boost to prices. Crude futures mal utilization of sports facilities and the best use of all sports facilities Interior Minister H E Sheikh Abdul- He also stressed that the Minis- study they prepared formed a suita- had already rallied last week after opening the way for investment and in the state to serve the community lah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani, try seeks to support sports and the ble ground for the management and IEA said the world oil supply glut private sector in the management and both economically and socially, in to make room for the private sector various needs of the community operation of other facilities that the could ease in the second half of operation of these facilities. a move for preparing to run legacy to actively participate in the vari- through these facilities and through Ministry will inherit in the future after this year, and as the Opec said the The Ministry in December opened the 2022 World Cup, and the other ous aspects of the overall economic, hosting local and international events the 2022 World Cup. oversupply “may be easing”. 22 TUESDAY 17 MAY 2016 BUSINESS Qatar Airways leads with fleet management system

age flights, ultimately driving a more Airmen are immediately communi- advantage of our world-class IT team. is expected to go live by the end of the past,” said Srinivasan A T, Qatar efficient and effective airline for its cated to the specific dispatchers and Our system, called TOPS, has under- the year. Airways’ Chief Information Officer. The new system called passengers. operations staff for more perfect situ- gone a number of iterations, and today Qatar Airways’ Chief Opera- “Our next iteration will incorporate ‘TOPS’ allows the TOPS, which stands for Total ational awareness; and Flight Watch, is second to none in its ability to serve tions Officer, Captain Helmut Weixler, crew management optimisation tools, OPerations System, integrates data which consolidates all flight data into the needs of our flight dispatchers, said: “TOPS is a system designed by which, when complete, will contrib- airline to optimally from multiple sources and produces a a single graphical source for ease of operations control staff and others.” technology experts to assist airline ute to the total operations system we schedule aircraft and holistic view of the airline’s operation, tracking, communicating with and TOPS Flight Watch, launched professionals run the operation more originally envisioned. We will not better manage flights. from the global scale to the individual managing the airline’s more than 500 in 2015, offers operations person- efficiently and effectively. It is also a stop here and will continue to invest flight level, in order to anticipate and daily flights to more than 150 desti- nel multiple filters, such as weather system designed to evolve with the air- in the system to ensure that our airline notify operations staff of any poten- nations in six continents. patterns, flight path routing, and line’s needs, including managing crew operations, enabled by TOPS, always tial issue and provide solution options. Akbar Al Baker, Qatar Airways restricted or prohibited air space so resources. This system has delivered continue to be the best-in-class.” The Peninsula Specific tasks that can now be Group Chief Executive, said: “Qatar that the team of professionals in the far more benefits than we originally Qatar Airways and Wipro devel- carried out due to this integration Airways started developing an airline’s Integrated Operations Cen- expected and we are sure that it will oped CROAMIS under the same include, but are not limited to: tail all-encompassing tool for fleet man- tre have near-perfect awareness of continue to add even more value to our innovative co-funded model, and DOHA: Qatar Airways yesterday assignment optimiser, whereby air- agement in 2014, knowing that our each airborne flight, and the ability to airline operations going forward.” released it last September. CROAMIS announced the successful completion craft are assigned to specific lines growth trajectory would require us quickly communicate with the flight “TOPS was developed in-house by is the cargo industry’s most advanced and implementation of a new fleet of flying with respect to the opera- to utilise technology in order to scale deck. The airline is also developing Qatar Airways staff partnering with cargo management system, handling management system called ‘TOPS’ tional needs of the route, based on our ability to command and control a maintenance planning optimiser Wipro, a global IT services provider Cargo Reservations, Operations, that allows the airline to optimally the specific aircraft’s capabilities; the operation. We elected to develop to help schedule around aircraft in a co-funded and co-development Accounting and Management Infor- schedule aircraft and better man- NOTAM manager, where Notice to the technology internally, taking scheduled out of service time, which model that has proven successful in mation Systems. Buffett backing Hedge funds reap big bid for Yahoo from Russian markets

Bloomberg percent this year, which compares to the 5.5 percent return of the firm’s total assets of about $2.5bn, accord- ing to the firm. About $1bn of East MOSCOW: Russian assets, which Capital’s assets are invested in Rus- are among the most volatile in the sia across all investment strategies. world, are bringing hedge fund man- Russia, the world’s largest agers the best returns in emerging energy exporter, is mired in its AFP markets. second year of recession as oil Funds with a geographical focus selling for half its five-year aver- on the country have gained an aver- age price exacerbates the impact NEW YORK: Billionaire Warren age 29 percent since the start of of sanctions linked to the Ukraine Buffett (pictured) is willing to 2015, more than any others geared conflict. Gross domestic product is back one of the bidders for trou- toward major developing nations, forecast to contract 1.4 percent this bled Internet pioneer Yahoo, CNBC according to industry tracker eVest- year, according to the mean esti- television reported yesterday. ment. That’s 8 times more than mate of 44 economists surveyed The report said Buffett had China-focused funds and 16 times by Bloomberg. At 40 percent, the agreed to work with Quicken the return of firms investing in India. RTS Index’s 90-day historical vol- Loans founder and chairman Dan The MSCI Russia Index rose 17 per- atility is the highest in the world, Gilbert on a bid for the core assets cent during the same period. data compiled by Bloomberg show. of Yahoo, which has been evaluat- The performance of Russia’s The dollar-denominated RTS An ibq official receiving the award at the Banker Middle East Industry Awards. ing the potential for a sale. financial markets is closely tied to Index gained 1.1 percent at 10:45 a.m. Gilbert is also known as the the price of oil, the country’s biggest in New York on Monday, the second owner of the NBA’s Cleveland export. Many managers of traditional day of gains. The ruble strength- Cavaliers team. “I’m an enormous ibq wins three honours at funds have fled a stock market that ened 0.7 percent at 65.025 against admirer of Dan and what he has in the past 16 months has oscillated the dollar. accomplished in Quicken Loans,” between posting the world’s best “The investment case for Russia Buffett (pictured) said in an email Banker Middle East Awards monthly performance and double- got so bad that, quite simply, there to CNBC. digit losses, while the currency sank was nowhere to go but up,” said “Yahoo is not the type of as much as 68 percent as Brent crude Michael O’Flynn, who has been fol- thing I’d ever be an equity part- plunged to the lowest price since lowing the nation’s markets since ner in. I don’t know the business The Peninsula industry and are given to organisa- streamlined banking operations that 2003. Hedge funds, which are less the 1990s and is currently manag- and wouldn’t know how to evalu- tions that demonstrate best in class focus on impeccable customer serv- restricted and can use riskier invest- ing partner at Choate Bridge Global ate it, but if Dan needed financing, banking services in the region. ice and client relationships. ment strategies to amplify returns, Advisors, which advises hedge funds. with proper terms and protections, “At ibq, we believe that building “It is an honor to be selected for thrived in that environment. “It’s all about simple harmonic we would be a possible financing DOHA: International Bank of Qatar long term relationships with our cus- this award out of many senior exec- “There are not too many places motion.” help.” (ibq) received three awards at the tomers and partners is what shapes our utives from around the region, and in the world where you can get the Hedge funds are generally open Yahoo, which has fallen behind “Banker Middle East Industry Awards industry today. We strive therefore to it is even a greater honour to be part returns you can get in Russia,” Albin to high net-worth individuals or rivals such as Google and Face- 2016” ceremony held on May 12th at establish close relationships with each of ibq. This is recognition of our full Rosengren, a partner at East Capital institutions looking for returns that book, has said it is studying the the Emirates Tower Hotel in Dubai. and every customer at the Bank, based value chain and I would like to ded- Group, an investment firm that over- would be difficult to obtain with tra- possibility of a sale as it pursues Omar Bouhadiba, Managing Direc- on mutual solid trust which we built icate this award to the ibq family sees about $2.5bn in assets, said by ditional investment instruments. its efforts to revive growth, focus- tor at ibq, received ‘Best Customer throughout years”, said ibq’s Managing including our customers,” said ibq’s phone from Dubai last week They usually charge higher fees and ing on mobile users. Service Award’ Chaouki Daher, Gen- Director, Omar Bouhadiba. “At ibq, you General Manager and Head of Private . “Investors were exiting Russia are less regulated than traditional US telecom giant Verizon is eral Manager and Head of Private are not an account number. You are a Banking, Chaouki Daher. last year as there was a lot of market mutual funds. To amplify returns also believed to be among the Banking at ibq was awarded ‘Pri- name and a face. So this award is par- The Banker Middle East Industry uncertainty, and they are entering and increase investment flexibility, bidders for Yahoo, which has not vate Banker of the Year’, in addition ticularly rewarding to us,” he added. Awards is the MENA Region’s lead- Russia this year as it looks attrac- hedge funds can use riskier strate- commented on details of the bid- to collecting the ‘Best Private Bank The awards affirm ibq’s sustained ing Awards Programme. The event tive. For us, Russia has been a good gies including buying on leverage, ding process. Award’ on behalf of the Bank. foresight in delivering exceptional, now in its 18th year was attended by investment both in 2015 and 2016.” short-selling and using derivatives, Yahoo shares rose 2.8 percent Banker Middle East Industry value-added products, in addition 400 senior Bankers with 20 CEOs in A $500m East Capital Russia- which are tools that most mutual to $37.51 after the news report Awards are recognised as one of to the Bank’s prudent investments attendance as well as Senior officials dedicated fund has appreciated 17 funds avoid. involving Buffett. the most prestigious awards in the in technology, human capital and from the DIFC. Ooredoo BizStore launched Norway sovereign wealth fund to sue Volkswagen: Report The Peninsula entertainment partners are acces- to provide the best discounts plat- sible with the launch of the app, and form for its customers. more will be added every month. Fatima Sultan Al Kuwari, Direc- Ooredoo BizStore has a strong focus tor, Community and Public Relations, AFP DOHA: Ooredoo yesterday launched on women’s interests, with a vibrant Ooredoo, said: “Ooredoo is always Ooredoo BizStore, an exclusive serv- range of fashion, beauty and lifestyle on the lookout for innovative prod- ice for customers that provides the deals available. ucts and services that will surprise latest discounts for stores and retail- To ensure that Ooredoo BizStore and delight our customers. Our part- LONDON: Norway’s sovereign ers across Qatar, all through one is accessible to all, Ooredoo is provid- nership with TESS Tech will offer wealth fund, the world’s largest, is easily-accessed portal. ing customer access via Smartphone customers the opportunity to have to sue German carmaker Volkswagen Designed for everyone in Qatar, and SMS, so that 2G, 3G, 4G and 4G+ access to exclusive discounts from a over an emissions-cheating scandal Ooredoo BizStore provides dedicated users can all enjoy the incredible wide range of outlets – all through that caused it huge losses, the Finan- discounts for young people, business offers. one platform.” cial Times reported. people, families, visitors and more, Smartphone users can down- Qasim Khalid, the CEO of TESS “We have been advised by our giving customers instant access to load the Ooredoo BizStore app for Tech, said, “Being a technology lawyers that the company’s con- the latest and best offers, including just QR 9 per week and enjoy unlim- company, we thrive on the vision of duct gives rise to legal claims a range of exclusives. ited access to the application with an creating innovative smart solutions under German law. As an investor The Ooredoo BizStore includes unlimited number of discounts. It is that cater directly to the customers’ it is our responsibility to safeguard sections on top deals, top malls, res- available for Android users and soon needs. By keeping our finger on the the fund’s holding in Volkswagen,” taurants, shopping, lifestyle and for IOS users. pulse of the market’s demand and Peter Johnsen, the chief executive fashion, education and entertain- Customers using feature phones joining hands with Ooredoo, we are of the fund’s manager Norges Bank ment, with customers only a click can use the SMS version, which is at the right place and the right time.” Investment Management, told the away from the latest and best offers. available for QR 3 per week and The launch of Ooredoo BizStore newspaper. By choosing specific discounts, cus- provides three deals per day. When is the latest in a run of new mobile The German automobile giant is A man looks in the virtual reality device used for training purposes at tomers can enjoy immediate bonuses customers want more deals, they services made available in Qatar, already facing a slew of lawsuits from the Volkswagen booth at the Hannover Messe in Hanover, Germany. with a huge range of outlets. can send an SMS and purchase addi- asOoredoo looks to bring the latest shareholders seeking damages after Participating hotels, restaurants, tional options for QR 0.05 per deal. and best innovations to enrich cus- deep falls in its share price, as well as and forced it to recall vehicles from Volkswagen did not imme- stores and retail outlets include W To subscribe to the SMS service, cus- tomers’ digital lifestyles. Following from angry car owners. around the world. diately respond to a request for Hotel, Apparel Group (Tim Hortons, tomers simply have to send SUB BIZ the roll-out of the Ooredoo Super- Volkswagen’s admission that The carmaker has set aside $19bn comment. A spokesperson for Cold Stone Creamery), Galaxy Sports, to 92806. net, Ooredoo is positioning itself to illegal software was installed on 11 in provisions to cover potential fines, Norges Bank Investment Man- QGym, QSports, Al Nahdi, and VLCC. In partnership with TESS Tech, be the leading provider of digital life- million diesel engines to cheat emis- lawsuits and recall costs, resulting in agement could not be reached for More than 100 shopping and Ooredoo has launched this service style services in Qatar. sions tests sparked a global scandal its first annual loss since 1993. comment. BUSINESS TUESDAY 17 MAY 2016 23 Moody’s confirms Qatari project finance ratings

in the unlikely event that any of these in the current low oil price environ- issuers were to become distressed, ment; its generally beneficial project Moody’s has also there would be a high likelihood of finance structural features, subject to confirmed the Aa3 extraordinary support from the Gov- the absence of certain security inter- ernment of Qatar to avoid a default ests and subject to limitations on the senior secured debt on their debt obligations. Moody’s likely effectiveness of certain creditor ratings and the A1 assumption of high support leads to a projections; event risk considerations senior subordinated significant uplift from the standalone and the Project’s exposure to com- credit strength, or baseline credit modity price risk, although such debt rating of Nakilat. assessment (BCA), of the projects. risks are substantially mitigated by As part of Moody’s review, the its strong financial metrics. rating agency assessed the impact of The BCA for Nakilat is a1 and sustained low oil prices on the stan- reflects the critical importance of By Satish Kanady dalone credit strength of RasGas II, its vessels to their liquefaction com- The Peninsula RasGas 3 (together RasGas II-3) and pany charterers, high quality net cash An unidentified man walking through the lobby of the Gannett-USA Today headquarters building in Nakilat, and affirmed the BCA for flows, underpinned by charter pay- each of them. Moody’s expects that ments that are highly resilient and cLean, Virginia. the standalone credit strength of Ras- well matched to operating costs and DOHA: Moody’s Investors Service Gas II-3 will, as a result of strong base debt service costs; financial metrics has confirmed the Aa3 guaranteed case financial metrics, be resilient capable of supporting long tenor senior secured debt ratings of Ras in a low hydrocarbon price environ- project finance debt; generally ben- Gannett ups bid for Tribune to $864m Laffan Liquefied Natural Gas Co. Ltd ment. The rating agency estimates eficial project finance structural (II) (RasGas II) and Ras Laffan Lique- that the minimum debt service cover features and a number of techno- fied Natural Gas Co. Ltd (3) (RasGas 3). ratio (DSCR) breakeven oil price for logical innovations compared to AFP in serious and meaningful negotia- Tribune Publishing issued a state- Moody’s has also confirmed the Aa3 RasGas II-3 is below $15 per barrel. conventional LNG vessels; and expo- tions with the Tribune Board to reach ment acknowledging it received the senior secured debt ratings and the In the case of Nakilat, the availabil- sure to refinancing risk arising from a mutually agreeable transaction offer amounting to $15 per share, A1 senior subordinated debt rating ity-based revenues payable under the bullet maturities of certain Pro- where Gannett acquires all of Trib- adding that its board “will thoroughly of Nakilat Inc (Nakilat). The outlook long-term time charter party agree- gram Debt facilities, within the term WASHINGTON: US newspaper giant une,” said a statement from Gannett review” the revised proposal. on the ratings is negative. This con- ments ensure that Nakilat’s revenues of the financing. Gannett yesterday raised its bid for chairman John Jeffry Louis. The two newspaper groups have cluded the reviews for downgrade are not exposed to commodity price Moody’s would consider upgrad- rival Tribune Publishing to $864m “It is evident from our discus- been in a war of words over the bid. that were initiated on 9 March 2016. volatility. ing the ratings if there was an after its earlier offer was rejected as sions with Tribune shareholders that Tribune Publishing said on May The rating actions follow Moody’s The BCA for RasGas II-3 lies upgrade of the sovereign rating. too low. there is overwhelming support for the 4 the Gannett offer “understates the 14 May confirmation of the Aa2 gov- within a range of baa1-baa3 and Moody’s would consider down- Gannett hiked its bid from last companies to engage immediately company’s true value and is not in ernment bond and issuer ratings of reflects the Project’s compelling com- grading the ratings if there was a month’s $815m in an effort to com- regarding our proposed transaction. the best interests of our sharehold- Qatar, with negative outlook, and mercial and industrial rationale, and downgrade of the sovereign rating bine its USA Today and affiliated By increasing our offer at this time, ers,” and several days later adopted reflects that each of RasGas II, Ras- the strong competitive position that of the Government of Qatar. Moody’s newspapers with the Los Angeles we are reaffirming Gannett’s belief a shareholder rights plan or “poison Gas 3 and Nakilat is a government it enjoys as a world class, low-cost could also downgrade the ratings if Times, Chicago Tribune and other that this transaction would deliver pill” which makes a takeover more related issuer (GRI). The ratings of producer of liquefied natural gas their assumption of high support dailies owed by Tribune Publishing. significant value to both companies’ difficult. RasGas II, RasGas 3 and Nakilat (LNG) and valuable by-products’ its weakens. “Our increased offer demon- stakeholders and that the time to act The newspaper industry is fac- incorporate Moody’s assumption that very strong financial metrics, even strates our commitment to engaging is now.” ing a downturn in the West. Project Qatar a business platform: Qatar Steel World’s biggest budget airline alliance takes The Peninsula off in the Asia-Pacific

DOHA: Project Qatar 2016, the 13th edition of ‘International Construc- AFP individually,” said Lance Gokong- tion Technology & Building Materials wei, president and chief executive Exhibition’ provided a good opportu- of Cebu Pacific. nity to companies, including Qatar Members of the alliance together Steel, to meet and establishing contact SINGAPORE: Eight budget airlines served more than 47 million travel- with representatives of construction from Southeast Asia, Japan and lers from 17 hubs last year, according companies, said a top official of coun- Australia said yesterday they have to the statement. try’s main steel producing company. formed what they called the world’s The increasing popularity of Qatar Steel successfully partic- largest alliance of low-cost carriers, no-frills airlines, which typically ipated in the four-day expo which enabling customers to book connec- do not offer free meals or in-flight concluded on May 12 at the Doha tions using a shared platform. entertainment, is driven by the Exhibition and Convention Center. The announcement comes at region’s growing middle class, Ali bin Hassan Al Muraikhi, Man- a time of increased popularity for many of whom are travelling for aging Director and General Manager budget carriers in Southeast Asia, the first time. of Qatar Steel, said: “Project Qatar is which industry players say is a key Shukor Yusof, founder of Malay- one of the leading construction and growth market for low-cost air sia-based aviation consultancy building materials exhibitions in the travel. Endau Analytics, said the alliance Middle East, and it is a good business “Customers will be able to view, will benefit carriers more than platform for construction companies to select and book the best-availa- passengers. showcase their up-to-date materials, ble airfares on flights from any of “The idea would be to align air- Qatar Steel officials at the Project Qatar pavilion. state-of-the-art equipment and tech- the airlines in a single transaction, fares so that there will not be too nology available on the market and to directly from each partner website,” much disparity between the dif- provide solutions for building sector.” said the statement, describing the ferent discount carriers... I suspect Al Muraikhi added: “Qatar Steel, equipment and technologies used in commercial, housing and industrial, and building projects, and we are alliance as the world’s biggest. that no longer will you be able to get as a national leading steel producer, this vital sector. as well as a great number of expan- working hard to preserve the envi- Value Alliance brings together airfares that cost less than a jug of remains anxious to participate in He noted that through supplying sion projects, for hosting the FIFA ronment and reduce the impacts of Singapore Airlines’ medium- to beer,” he said. Project Qatar Expo, due to its stra- high quality rebar products used in World Cup in 2022. our manufacturing operations on the long-haul budget wing Scoot, the Notable exclusions from the new tegic importance. It provides a good constructions, Qatar Steel is greatly “Qatar Steel is committed to environment, through using modern Philippines’ Cebu Pacific, South alliance were AirAsia of Malaysia, opportunity for us to meet and con- contributing to the economic devel- achieving sustainable develop- and eco-friendly technology,” he said. Korea’s Jeju Air, Thailand’s Nok Southeast Asia’s biggest budget car- tact representatives of construction opment in Qatar, in line with Qatar’s ment, and it is constantly striving Al Muraikhi also noted that Air and NokScoot, Tigerair Singa- rier, Qantas Airways’ Jetstar Group of companies, exchange expertise and National Vision 2030. The country is to achieve growth and sustainable through taking part in project Qatar pore, Tigerair Australia and Japan’s Australia and India’s IndiGo. new ideas with them, and also to keep currently witnessing the implemen- steel industry. Steel rebar is consid- 2016, we shall build up long term Vanilla Air. Yusof said their absence could abreast with the latest construction tation of mega infrastructure projects; ered as the backbone of construction business and partnership relations. The alliance will serve more mean they are taking a wait-and- than 160 destinations with a col- see approach. lective fleet of 176 aircraft, the “But I suspect they will look statement said. closely, especially (now) that Scoot “Value Alliance is a clear and Tiger and the Japanese and Barwa Bank & MasterCard plan premium cards example of how (budget airlines) Korean LCCs are part of the equa- can accomplish more by work- tion,” he said, referring to low-cost ing together than we could do carriers.

The Peninsula the immense benefits of being World dining, and entertainment offers 20 percent discounted chauffeur MasterCard and Platinum MasterCard and experiences.” rides with ‘Careem’. holders.” Platinum MasterCard enriches However, clients don’t need to Raghav Prasad, General Man- clients’ experiences with special travel to go on a shopping spree. Thailand’s Q1 GDP grows DOHA: Barwa Bank, one of Qatar’s ager, Gulf Countries, MasterCard, offers and privileges while giving With ‘MyUS’, card holders can shop fast growing Shari’ah-compliant added: “As a leading global pay- them a unique collection of dining, from their favorite US-based mer- banking services providers, has ments solutions provider, our entertainment, shopping, travels, chants online, aggregate all of their Reuters lower interest rates may be needed signed an agreement with MasterCard payment cards are widely-accepted hotels, and sports experiences. purchases into a reduced-cost ship- to prevent growth momentum from to introduce its World MasterCard and in over 210 countries and territo- For the first time ever, MasterCard ment, and send to 220 countries at a stalling. Platinum MasterCard to the bank’s ries across the globe. We are pleased Debit card owners as well as Platinum 25 percent discounted shipping rate Southeast Asia’s second-larg- clients. to announce our partnership with MasterCard holders will now be able for one year. Moreover, clients can BANGKOK: Thailand’s economy est economy grew a seasonally The two types of credit cards offer Barwa Bank, to bring cashless con- to enjoy purchase and fraud protec- take advantage of additional online outpaced expectations in the first adjusted 0.9 percent in the first their holders a wide range of exclu- venience, complete security and tion, as well as enjoy a wide range of deals and discounts on a variety of quarter to expand at the fastest quarter, boosted by government sive privileges. privileged access to clients through exclusive dining, shopping and travel international brands when shopping annual rate in three years, pro- spending and tourism, the National Khalid Yousef Al Subeai, Act- our prestigious World MasterCard deals. with ‘Reebonz’ and ‘MarkaVIP’. viding some relief for a military Economic and Social Development ing Group CEO of Barwa Bank, said: and Platinum MasterCard offerings. In addition to saving up to $400 When it comes to enjoying unique government that has struggled to Board (NESDB) said yesterday. “In line with Barwa Bank’s strat- Being a World or Platinum Master- on their flights and hotel bookings culinary experiences, MasterCard stimulate growth in the two years The pace was faster than 0.8 egy to enhance customer service Card holder means Barwa Bank’s via the ‘Cleartrip’ website, clients Debit and Credit offer their clients since it seized power. percent in the fourth quarter and and experience, our partnership clients will be more empowered can enjoy complimentary access to hundreds of complimentary deals But with exports expected 0.6 percent forecast in a Reuters with MasterCard Worldwide allows than ever to explore the world, VIP airport lounges equipped with throughout the Middle East and Africa to shrink for a fourth year run- poll. our customers to take advantage take advantage of VIP services at business facilities and when travel- across dining’s, cafés, entertainment, ning and consumption crimped From a year earlier, growth was of exclusive offers, privileges and leading airports, hotels and destina- ling across countries in the Middle attractions and spas, with unlimited by high household debts and the 3.2 percent, better than 2.8 percent one-of-a-kind experiences. We are tions, while enjoying a unique array East, card holders will also be able redemptions on ‘Buy 1 Get 1 Free’ worst drought in a decade, econo- previously and higher than econo- confident that our clients will enjoy of shopping, sports, attractions, to take advantage of twice-monthly offers, powered by ‘The Entertainer’. mists say more fiscal stimulus and mists’ estimates. 24 TUESDAY 17 MAY 2016 BUSINESS

Pfizer to buy Chinese pouring eczema specialist for $5.2bn billions into US AFP

NEW YORK: US drugs giant Pfizer is buying California biotech com- real estate: Study pany Anacor Pharmaceuticals, a specialist in eczema treatment, in an all-cash $5.2bn deal, the com- panies said yesterday. While big deals, like the Anbang Five weeks after scrapping A huge surge in insurance group’s $2bn purchase a $160bn takeover plan with of the Waldorf Astoria hotel in New Allergan in the face of a US Chinese buying last York last year, and its failed $14bn crackdown on tax-saving merg- year took their five- offer for the Starwood group in ers, Pfizer announced the Anacor March, make headlines, the study acquisition will add a key anti- year investment total said Chinese buying of US homes far inflammatory drug, crisaborole, to more than $110bn. outpaces its investment in commer- to its portfolio. cial land and buildings. Anacor’s crisaborole is cur- Between 2010 and 2015, Chinese rently under review by the US buyers put more than $17bn into US Food and Drug Administration AFP commercial real estate, with half of for the treatment of mild-to- Apple CEO Tim Cook (third left) posing for a group picture with Didi Chuxing President Jean Liu (left), that spent last year alone. moderate atopic dermatitis, often But during the same period at Tap4Fun CEO Xu Zizhan (second left) and other officials during Cook’s visit to an Apple Store in Wangfujing, called eczema, an itchy rash on the WASHINGTON: Chinese nationals least $93 billion went into US homes. Beijing City, China, yesterday. skin, the companies said in a joint became the largest foreign buyers And in the 12 months to March 2015, statement. of US homes last year as they pour the latest period for which rela- “Crisaborole is a differentiated billions into American real estate, tively comprehensive data could be asset with compelling clinical data seeking safe offshore assets, accord- gathered, home purchases totaled Uber’s China rival Didi plans IPO that, if approved, has the potential ing to a new study. $28.5bn. That put the Chinese past to be an important first-line treat- A huge surge in Chinese buying Canadians, who have long been the ment option for these patients and of both residential and commercial biggest foreign buyers of US residen- Bloomberg reached break even in about half of Beijing, where he spoke to a devel- the physicians who treat them,” real estate last year took their five- tial real estate. the 400 Chinese cities it operates in opers forum. said Albert Bourla, president of year investment total to more than Geographically, Chinese buyers as Uber spends heavily to win both At Didi’s current valuation, a Pfizer’s Global Innovative Pharma $110bn, according to the study from are concentrated in the most expen- drivers and riders. US IPO could be the biggest by a and Global Vaccines, Oncology and the Asia Society and Rosen Consult- sive markets: New York, Los Angeles, NEW YORK: Apple Inc may not need “It’s great timing because the Chinese company since Alibaba’s Consumer Healthcare Businesses. ing Group. San Francisco and Seattle. to wait that long before it reaps the company is on a tear in terms of win- record offering in 2014. The com- If the FDA approves the drug, The sheer size of that total has But Chicago, Miami and Las benefits of investing $1bn in Chinese ning market share and users, and that pany is among a list of ride-sharing Pfizer said, peak year sales for helped the real estate market recover Vegas have also drawn buyers. car-hailing service Didi Chuxing. may not last forever, “ said Li Yujie, apps including Uber and Lyft Inc. that crisaborole could reach or exceed from the crash that began in 2006 That focus means they pay well Didi is targeting an initial pub- an analyst with RHB Research Insti- could conduct a public offering. $2bn. and precipitated the 2008 economic above the average US home price: last lic offering in New York next year, tute in Hong Kong. Didi hasn’t decided on which Anacor, a biotech firm based crisis, they said. And despite a slow- year, Chinese buyers paid on aver- according to people familiar with “Didi could be facing some pres- exchange and which banks to hire in Palo Alto, California, also owns down due to Beijing’s clampdown on age about $832,000 per home in the the matter. sure from investors who want to see yet, the people said. the rights to Kerydin, a topical capital outflows, the figure for the United States, compared to the average The timing will depend on how their investment returns.” Didi was created last year when treatment for toenail fungus that second half of this decade is likely for all foreign purchases of $499,600. its battle with Uber Technologies Tencent rose the most in two separate apps backed by Tencent and is distributed and marketed in to double to $218bn, the study said. The motivations are broad: some Inc. in China plays out, said the peo- months, jumping 3.1 percent to Alibaba merged after brutal compe- the United States by Sandoz, the “What makes China different and are buying second homes, some are ple, who requested not to be named HK$159.90 in Hong Kong trading. tition drove up losses. The company generics drugs division of Swiss noteworthy is the combination of the buying as they move to the United because the matter is private. Such a The stock was the biggest contribu- now has 14 million registered driv- drugs giant Novartis. high volume of investment (and) the States on EB-5 investor visas; some move may put the Chinese app ahead tor to gains in the benchmark Hang ers in China, delivering more than Pfizer and Anacor said their breadth of its participation across are investing for rental and resale. of its US rival in going public, with Seng Index on Monday. 11 million rides a day, and last month respective boards of directors had all real estate categories,” including Most of the money in US homes, Uber having said it wants to hold off Didi, formally known as Xiaoju said it’s on track to turn an operating approved the merger agreement. a “somewhat unique entry into resi- the study noted, is private wealth, as long as possible. Kuaizhi Inc., declined to comment profit “soon.” Under the terms of the deal, Pfizer dential purchases,” the study said. not corporate. “This familiarity of China’s biggest ride-hailing app is on any potential IPO in an emailed While Uber has been valued at will pay $99.25 per Anacor share The authors of the study said utilizing real estate as an investment in the process of raising about $3bn statement. $62.5bn and is the biggest ride-shar- in cash. The transaction is subject their numbers, based on public and or wealth preservation tool is more of funding, including Apple’s $1bn Apple Chief Executive Officer ing app globally, it’s dwarfed by Didi to US antitrust clearance. real estate industry data, understate prevalent in China and reflects the contribution, which has swelled the Tim Cook posted a picture on his in China. The company has set a tar- Shares in Dow member Pfizer the total. They necessarily miss pur- broader comfort of purchasing sec- company’s valuation to about $26bn, blog, showing him using Didi’s taxi get of operating in 100 Chinese cities were down 0.8 percent at $32.92 chases made by front companies and ond homes in the United States by people familiar have said. Didi, hailing service in China with Didi this year, a quarter of Didi’s reach, in pre-market trade, while Ana- trusts that don’t identify the sources Chinese individuals and families,” already backed by Alibaba Group President Jean Liu, a post that drew and is currently unprofitable in the cor shares soared 54.3 percent to of the funds. the study noted. Holding . and Tencent Holdings, has hundreds of comments. Cook was in country. $98.79.

Philips eyes IDB delegate almost €1bn Chinese steel mills IPO windfall back cutbacks AFP

Bloomberg curb excessive speculation.” Steel prices rallied in China for THE HAGUE: Dutch electronics five months through April as retail giant Philips announced yesterday investors dived into raw mate- it will float 25 percent of its shares BEIJING: The biggest steel produc- rial futures amid expectations that in a highly anticipated IPO of its ers’ association in China says that demand was set to improve. The lighting arm which could raise the country must stick with a gov- upsurge in speculation was checked almost €1bn . ernment-framed plan to roll back by a clampdown from regulators and The Amsterdam-based com- excessive capacity in the world’s top exchanges in moves that drew praise pany said it would release some producer, while praising regulators from investors including Jim Rogers. 37.5m shares for the initial public for quelling a speculative frenzy that Li, speaking in an interview on Mon- offering on May 27, with an option lifted prices last month. day, traced the roots of the rally to of releasing more if the offer is “We can’t waver in our target to cutbacks by mills last year, followed over-subscribed. reduce 100 million tons to 150 mil- by stimulus in 2016. The floatation could raise lion tons of capacity in five years just The “steel-price rally had its between €694m to €970m ($784m because the steel price rallied and fundamental reasons but specula- to $1.09 bn). some idled capacity was brought tion exacerbated the move,” Li said In September 2014, Philips back,” said Li Xinchuang, deputy in Beijing as he attended a confer- said it was selling off its core A delegate of the 41st annual meeting of the Islamic Development Bank (IDB) walks in front of social secretary-general of the China Iron ence. The steel industry as a whole lighting business -- a mainstay of media logos at the Jakarta Convention Center in Jakarta, Indonesia, yesterday. & Steel Association. “Regulators have suffered losses in the fourth quarter its income for more than a cen- moved decisively and successfully to of last year, leading to output cuts. tury -- to focus more on medical equipment. The expected price range for the initial public offering would be set at between €18.50 to €22.5, London’s future as finance hub at risk outside EU: Bailey valuing the lighting arm at around 2.78 to 3.38bn euros. But in a statement yesterday, Philips, a household name around Reuters taken by many actors over time,” Bai- supporters, who have accused him of special attention to the banks’ funding the world for its home appliances, ley said. overstepping the mark in his warnings needs to ensure money keeps flowing acknowledged its lighting arm The EU provides rules for banks, about the impact of leaving the bloc. to the economy and to avoid a repeat would still carry some 4.32 to 4.92 insurers and asset managers that pro- Bailey, who also heads the BoE’s of the damaging credit crunch seen in bn euros in debt. LONDON: London has no “God vide a “passport” for them to operate Prudential Regulation Authority, said the 2007-09 financial crisis. “Today’s announcement is an given” right to remain a global bank- freely across the bloc’s single mar- it was the Bank’s job to highlight the “We have not seen any evidence important next step in the planned ing centre if Britain were to leave the ket. This includes banks from outside risks. of sterling funding issues at all. Gen- initial public offering of Philips European Union, Bank of England Europe, such as the United States and “We would be failing in our job if erally the challenge for banks these Lighting on Euronext Amster- Deputy Governor Andrew Bailey (pic- Asia. we didn’t,” he said. days is to get a return on funding dam, signalling that the process tured) said yesterday. “What matters to them a lot is Bailey said he was having “daily” rather than finding funding,” Bai- is well on track,” said chief exec- Some 250 foreign banks employ- having the passport. If you are a conversations with Britain’s banks on ley said. utive Frans van Houten. ing thousands of people are based in non-EU firm operating in London, how they would cope with the imme- The BoE has already said it would The stock market however London, making it one of the world’s then having the passport is impor- diate fallout from a Brexit. open its taps around the time of the reacted coolly, with Philips shares major financial centres and a rival to tant,” Bailey said. Analysts expect a lot of volatility referendum to reassure markets that on the AEX dropping 2.82 percent New York. Over the longer term, inter- across financial markets, including there is no issue with liquidity. in early trade to €22.36. Bailey said Regulation Summit national banks always have the potential for sterling to lose up to “We are open for business for Philips sold its first light bulb a this could change if Britain voted to “optionality” on where they do their business leaders who want Britain a fifth of its value. banks that want to take up those few years after it was founded in come out of the EU in a June 23 vote. business, he said referring to their to stay in the EU have warned of the “All the banks are looking at this operations.” 1891, but for the past dozen years “We need a banking system to ability to move operations elsewhere. numerous economic risks of leaving, very actively,” said Bailey, who will Bailey said foreign currency fund- has increasingly shifted its focus support the domestic economy but Backers of Brexit say the City of including potential damage to the City take up a new job as chief executive ing needs also remained sizeable in to medical equipment, which now I am afraid we don’t have a God- London financial sector would still be of London financial centre. of the Financial Conduct Authority Britain and were an Achilles heel accounts for more than 40 percent given right to have anything in terms able to thrive outside the EU. BoE Governor Mark Carney in July. for some banks during the financial of sales. of international. That decision will be But politicians, policymakers and has come under attack from Brexit The Bank of England is paying crisis. BUSINESS TUESDAY 17 MAY 2016 25 Domestic focus may limit clout of $2trn Saudi fund

radical economic reforms announced developing new industries and push- management attention are likely Fransi Capital, is still designing its to be worth over $2tn, implying the The PIF may also get by Deputy Crown Prince Mohammed ing through stalled multi-billion dollar to focus more on domestic projects new operations and structure, while offer could raise $100bn. bin Salman last month to cut the king- development projects. than foreign markets. The PIF did not looking to hire managers within the A number of bankers and con- involved in areas dom’s reliance on oil. The PIF will “help unlock strate- respond to requests for comment. kingdom and abroad. sultants are sceptical of that figure, such as mining, The PIF, founded in 1971 to finance gic sectors requiring intensive capital Sven Behrendt, head of German To build up the fund, the govern- however, saying it will depend on development projects in Saudi Arabia inputs. This will contribute towards consultancy GeoEconomica, said ment has been transferring corporate factors such as Aramco’s dividend shipbuilding and and until now little known abroad, is developing entirely new economic the PIF’s foreign role, where it would assets and land to it, including own- policy, political risk and willingness developing six to grow from 600bn riyals ($160bn) sectors and establishing durable face pressure to maximise returns by ership of state oil giant Saudi Aramco. to disclose sensitive information to to over 7trn riyals, helping make Riy- national corporations,” the reform taking risks, would contrast with its But that simply makes the PIF a large investors. industrial cities. adh a global “investment power”, he plan reads. domestic role as a strategic investor, holding company rather than a fund Some analysis suggests all of Ara- said. The biggest sovereign fund so far For example, the government where returns would be secondary as that can funnel large sums into new mco might have a market value of is Norway’s, worth $852bn. will transfer ownership of Riyadh’s projects could not be allowed to fail investments. $250-460bn, excluding the value of “There will be no investment, floundering King Abdullah Financial for political reasons. A total of $579bn in net foreign refining assets and guaranteed access Reuters movement or development in any District to the PIF, sources said. “If you look around the world, you assets held by Saudi Arabia’s central to oil, said Washington-based consul- region of the world without the vote The PIF may also get involved in will see there are only a few funds bank (SAMA), which has traditionally tancy Foreign Reports. In any case, the of the Saudi sovereign fund,” Prince areas such as mining, shipbuilding that have this double mandate. Usu- served as Riyadh’s sovereign fund, PIF looks set to have much less than DUBAI: Saudi Arabia aims to create Mohammed told Al Arabiya television. and developing six industrial cities. ally it’s one or the other. will not be transferred to the PIF, the $2trn to play with in global markets the world’s biggest sovereign wealth Under the plan, Saudi Arabia The government says it is examin- “The two approaches require sources said. for the foreseeable future, limiting its fund, a $2trn behemoth that can would partly live off returns earned ing ways to salvage the industrial different investment philosophies So to raise money that the PIF can contribution to Saudi state finances. throw its weight around global mar- on the PIF’s foreign investments, city scheme, plagued for a decade - different capabilities, different reinvest, Riyadh plans to sell shares Norway’s sovereign fund returned kets, but the fund’s growth abroad is which would help offset Riya- by delays and a lack of enthusiasm management skills and different eval- in PIF companies over coming years an average 5.6 percent in 1998-2015, likely to be slowed by its responsibil- dh’s loss of oil revenues due to low among potential tenants. uation criteria...It’s difficult to square.” - a complex process that will depend before costs and inflation. Earning ity for aiding the economy at home. crude prices. But the PIF is also being The result, say bankers and con- Bankers and consultants in touch on the appetite of foreign investors that on $100bn raised from selling Building the Public Investment pressed into service for a second pur- sultants familiar with Saudi official with the PIF say the fund, under new for Saudi assets in an era of cheap oil. Aramco shares would deliver about Fund (PIF) into “the largest fund in pose: it is to use its money to revitalise thinking, is that in the initial years secretary-general Yasir Al Rumayyan, The sales will include up to 5 per- $5bn annually - not much against a the world by far” is a cornerstone of the Saudi economy and create jobs by at least, the PIF’s resources and a former chief executive of Saudi cent of Aramco. The company is said state budget deficit near $100bn. Total launches massive Inflation in Nigeria hits gas plant in Britain near 6-year high in April AFP lie around 80 miles northwest of Shetland. Total chief executive Patrick Reuters Pouyanne said the project SHETLAND, UNITED KINGDOM: demonstrated the company’s Total officially launched yesterday “commitment” to Britain and said a huge new gas project in Britain’s it would help the country’s long- LAGOS: Annual inflation in Nigeria remote Shetland Islands, hailed by term energy security. quickened to a near six-year high London as a “vote of confidence” in “This subsea-to-shore devel- of 13.7 percent in April, in part the flagging North Sea oil and gas opment is the first of its kind in due to rising petrol and electric- industry. the country and will provide the ity prices, the National Bureau of The French energy giant offi- domestic market with eight per- Statistics said yesterday, stoking cially opened the Shetland Gas Plant cent of its daily gas requirements expectations of another rate hike. in Britain’s northernmost outpost, while enabling the potential for Nigeria’s worst economic cri- which cost £3.5bn ($5bn) to build. further developments in the West sis in decades has been driven by Bringing in gas from the Lag- of Shetland area,” Pouyanne said in a sharp drop in oil prices that has gan-Tormore fields, the plant began a statement. slashed government revenues since production on February 7, which Located in up to 600 metres the country relies on crude sales has since been ramped up to its full (1,970 feet) of water, the five wells for around 70 percent of national capacity of 500,000 cubic feet of tap reservoirs that lie 3,500 to income. gas (90,000 barrels of oil equiva- 3,900 metres (11,500 to 12,800 feet) Gross domestic product growth lent) per day. beneath the sea floor. was just 2.8 percent last year, its The fields are expected to last for The gas is treated at the Shet- lowest rate since 1999, and specu- A general view shows a Nissan car showroom in Seoul yesterday. about 20 years. land plant before the processed gas lation of a devaluation of the naira The Scottish North Sea oil and is piped into Britain’s main grid. currency is growing. March infla- gas sector has been reeling from a Total claimed the plant was Brit- tion was 12.8 percent. plunge in oil prices since mid-2014, ain’s biggest construction project Nissan faces fine for emissions in Seoul The statistics bureau (NBS) said leading the British government to cut since the London 2012 Olympics, the higher inflation rate in April - taxes for the industry. employing 2,500 people at the peak the highest level since August 2010, Amber Rudd, the minister for of construction. AFP investigation into 20 diesel-powered State tests showed the Qashqai according to Thomson Reuters data - energy and climate change, called Laggan-Tormore is operated by cars last December, initiated by Seoul switched off its emission reduction reflected increases across all sectors. the opening of the Shetland project Total with junior partners Denmark- after German carmaker Volkswagen device when the car temperature In March, Nigeria’s central a “vote of confidence in the offshore headquartered DONG Energy and admitted to having installed devices reached 35 degrees Celsius to stop the bank tightened monetary policy, oil and gas industry”. British energy company SSE, which SEOUL: South Korea said yesterday aimed at cheating emissions tests into vehicle from overheating, whereas raising the benchmark interest rate The plant was “creating jobs and each have a 20 percent interest. it will fine Nissan for manipulating 11 million diesel engines. other cars waited until the temper- to 12 percent from 11 percent to try providing secure, affordable energy The Shetland Islands are around emissions data on a popular diesel Nissan would be fined 330m ature reached 50 degrees. to curb the galloping inflation - a to the UK’s families and businesses 105 miles northeast of the Scottish sports utility vehicle, bringing the won ($280,000), the environment The ministry also said that when surprise reversal that came just for decades to come”, she said in a mainland. Japanese car giant into a widen- ministry said yesterday. “Our inves- the Qashqai’s emissions reduction four months after rates were cut. statement. Shetland was invaded by Vikings ing global scandal that has already tigation... concluded that Nissan device stopped working, the level “The focus inevitably shifts “North Sea oil and gas is crucial in the late eighth and early ninth ensnared Volkswagen and Mitsubishi. illegally manipulated emission data,” of emissions was about the same or to what sort of monetary policy to our energy mix. centuries. Seoul said it would order recalls the ministry said in a statement. higher than the Volkswagen’s cars reaction to anticipate,” said Razia “We are 100 percent committed The archipelago was pledged of hundreds of Qashqai model SUVs Hong Dong-Kon, a ministry equipped with emissions-cheating Khan, chief economist, Africa at to helping our oil and gas indus- to Scotland by the king of Norway after tests revealed an emission official handling transport-related software systems. Standard Chartered bank, look- try attract investment, unlock new in 1469 but the Norwegian spirit defeat system that made the vehi- regulations, added: “A group of auto Unlike its rivals Volkswagen and ing ahead to the monetary policy potential and remain competitive for lives on in street and place names cle appear to be less polluting than industry experts we consulted with Mitsubishi, Nissan has so far avoided committee meeting due next Mon- the future.” and islanders celebrate their Norse it really was. also agreed that this is a clear manip- being embroiled in any emissions or day and Tuesday. The Laggan-Tormore fields roots. The decision follows an ulation of emission data.” fuel economy cheating scandals. “With the central bank gov- ernor previously stating that a headline inflation rate in excess of the MPR (benchmark interest rate) is undesirable, expectations Mitsubishi UFJ profit falls Saudi banks planning of tightening are likely to build,” she said. NBS said petrol prices and electricity tariffs were major fac- to sell sukuks soon tors in the inflation rise. Last week, the government announced it was scrapping a costly fuel subsidy scheme and Reuters expected to start before the holy increasing petrol prices by up to month of Ramadan, which is due to 67 percent which will affect many begin around June 6 or 7. of Nigeria’s 180 million people who Bank Al Bilad didn’t immediately rely on gasoline to power electric- DUBAI: Two of Saudi Arabia’s respond to a request for comment. ity generators as well as transport. smaller banks by assets are plan- Bank Al Jazira couldn’t be reached The new prices have yet to feed ning to sell Islamic bonds, or sukuk, for comment. into the inflation figures, but NBS in the coming weeks which will bol- Saudi Arabian lenders have been data suggests fuel was already gen- ster their capital reserves, sources selling capital-boosting sukuk in erally sold at a higher price than the familiar with the matter said. the last two years to increase their new official ceiling throughout much Bank Al Jazira will meet local fixed reserves after a long period of strong of April, meaning more inflationary income investors this week ahead of loan growth in the kingdom. pressure could be building. a sukuk sale which will improve its Among Saudi lenders, Bank Food prices, which account Tier 2, or supplementary, capital lev- Al Jazira and Bank Al Bilad have for the bulk of the inflation bas- els, according to one source. among the lowest total capital ade- ket, rose 13.2 percent in April, up The transaction will likely run quacy ratios (CAR) - a combination 0.4 percentage points from March, for ten years but include an option of core Tier 1 and Tier 2 capital and the bureau said on its website. for the lender to redeem the sukuk a key indicator of financial health. Inflation has also been fuelled after five years. It is being arranged Despite this, the levels of capital by pressure on the naira, which on by GIB Capital, as well as the bank’s held by both banks are high com- Monday slipped to its weakest level own investment banking arm, the pared with Western counterparts in months against the dollar in the source added. due to the kingdom’s conservative non-deliverable forward market. Meanwhile, Bank Al Bilad has regulatory approach. Speculation that the central chosen HSBC’s Saudi Arabian arm According to their respective bank will soon devalue the cur- to arrange its own Tier 2-enhanc- financial statements, Bank Al Jazira’s rency has swirled since the vice A man walks past the Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group headquarters in Tokyo, Japan, yesterday. Mitsubishi ing sukuk issue, two sources aware CAR was 15.83 percent at the end of president last week said foreign UFJ Financial Group Inc announced that its full-year profit dropped by 8 percent in the fiscal year 2015. of the matter said. 2015. At the same point, Bank Al currency policies needed to be Marketing of the transaction is Bilad’s CAR was 15.88 percent. changed to encourage investment. 26 TUESDAY 17 MAY 2016 BUSINESS

QE INDICES SUMMARY QATAR STOCK EXCHANGE QE Index 9,996.45 0.46 % QE Total Return Index 16,173.59 0.46 % QE Al Rayan Islamic Index 3,910.03 0.10 % QE All Share Index 2,785.59 0.33 % QE All Share Banks & Financial Services 2,668.84 0.02 % QE All Share Industrials 3,107.23 0.28 % QE All Share Transportation 2,514.28 0.27 % QE All Share Real Estate 2,486.72 0.42 % QE All Share Insurance 4,210.64 2.49 % QE All Share Telecoms 1,154.18 1.27 % QE All Share Consumer Goods & Services 6,577.93 0.66 %

QE MARKET SUMMARY COMPARISON 16-05-2016 Today 15-05-2016 Previous day Index 9,996.45 9,950.37 Change 46.08 8.95 % 0.46 0.09 YTD% 4.15 4.59 Volume 7,471,610 10,152,917 Value (QAR) 246,348,308.74 299,207,458.31 Trades 4,759 4,564 Up 22 | Down 16 | Unchanged 03

WORLD STOCK INDICES Index Day’s Close Pt Chg % Chg Year High Year Low All Ordinaries 5420.347 24.082 0.45 5483.7 4762.1 Cac 40 Index/D 4291.12 -28.87 -0.67 4607.69 3892.46 Dj Indu Average 0 0 0 18351.4 15370.3 Hang Seng Inde/D 19883.95 164.66 0.84 21794.84 18278.8 Iseq Overall/D 6131.3 8.83 0.14 6791.68 5611.89 Karachi 100 In/D 36125.37 2.88 0.01 36448.43 29785 Nikkei 225 Index 16466.4 54.19 0.33 18951.12 14865.77 S&P 500 Index/D 0 0 0 2134.72 1810.1

EXCHANGE RATE Currency Buying Selling US$ QR 3.6305 QR 3.6500 UK QR 5.2027 QR 5.2764 INTERNATIONAL MARKETS - A LIST OF SHARES FROM THE WORLD Euro QR 4.1018 QR 4.1596 COMPANY CLOSE NET VOLUME COMPANY CLOSE NET VOLUME COMPANY CLOSE NET VOLUME COMPANY CLOSE NET VOLUME CA$ QR 2.7937 QR 2.8490 NAME CHG TRADED NAME CHG TRADED NAME CHG TRADED NAME CHG TRADED Swiss Fr QR 3.7098 QR 3.7629 Yen QR 0.0332 QR 0.0338 A C C-A/D 1455.35 2.6 7588 Eimco Elecon-T/D 369.9 8.8 1022 Jik Indust-B/D 0.74 -0.01 78037 Ruchi Soya-B/D 23.3 -0.05 47251 Aus$ QR 2.6331 QR 2.6860 Aarti Drugs-B/D 464.5 7.65 3962 Electrosteel-B/D 18.5 -0.4 100773 Jindal Drill-B/D 175.5 0.7 27066 Saur.Cem-B/D 61.85 -1.7 33802 Ind Re QR 0.0540 QR 0.0551 Aban Offs-A/D 211.4 4.25 302968 Emco-B/D 25.6 -0.2 2913 Jktyre&Ind-A/D 84.05 1.3 190023 Thirumalai-B/D 262.7 17.9 145568 Pak Re QR 0.0344 QR 0.0352 Aegis Logis-B/D 115.2 -1.8 67826 Escorts Fin-B/D 4.15 0.04 10895 Jmc Projects-T/D 276.9 2.1 6833 Timexgroup-T/D 34 -0.65 22648 Alembic-B/D 36 0.15 31905 Escorts-A/D 174.4 0.15 84166 Kabra Extr-B/D 97.75 4.55 5761 Tinplate-B/D 68.05 1.85 26662 Peso QR 0.0776 QR 0.0792 Alkyl Amines-B/D 309.5 -3.2 1017 Eveready Indu-/D 237.75 1.95 8372 Kakatiya Cem-B/D 508.7 24.2 82880 Ultramarine-B/D 122.6 -0.3 5655 SL Re QR 0.0245 QR 0.0253 Alok Indus-A/D 3.92 -0.04 895123 F D C-B/D 180.5 0.55 3458 Kalpat Power-B/D 217 -1.45 2694 Unitech P -A/D 4.01 -0.03 7263774 Taka QR 0.0458 QR 0.0468 Apollo Tyre-A/D 157.05 -2.75 162507 Federal Bank-A/D 50.85 0.85 563766 Kalyani Stel-T/D 156.3 -1.8 23678 Uppergsugar-T/D 193.2 13.4 103209 Nep Re QR 0.0338 QR 0.0344 Asahi I Glass-/D 151.05 0.1 5407 Ferro Alloys-B/D 4.75 -0.17 4310 Kanoria Chem-B/D 73 5.5 64850 LONDON SA Rand QR 0.2312 QR 0.2359 Ashok Leyland-/D 103.45 0.55 312881 Finolex-A/D 398.45 8.25 25845 Kg Denim-B/D 102.75 8.1 180571 Bajaj Hold-A/D 1523.1 8.8 3049 Gail-A/D 377.45 -2 52613 Kinetic Eng-B/D 86 -2 1143 3I Group/D 480 -1.3 266935 Ballarpur In-B/D 17 0.5 328872 Galada Power-B/D 12.77 -0.13 2140 Kopran-B/D 51.75 -0.2 30840 Assoc.Br.Foods/D 3045 7 234251 GOLD AND SILVER Banaras Bead-B/D 47.8 1.7 1105 Gammon India-T/D 11.42 0.02 12179 Lloyd Metal-B/D 26 0.55 4941 Barclays/D 163.6 -1.75 9826354 Bata India-A/D 585 11.9 30515 Garden P -B/D 26.3 -0.15 3997 Lok.Hous&Con-B/D 5.25 0.02 13815 Bp/D 363.7 1.2 6339810 GOLD QR151.0032 per gramme Bayer Crop-A/D 3939 -135.95 1917 Godfrey Phil-B/D 828.95 -0.4 8887 Lumax Ind-B/D 541 6.8 24707 Brit Am Tobacc/D 4184 -40.5 334155 SILVER QR2.0358 per gramme Beml Ltd-A/D 902.7 2.85 16028 Goodricke-B/D 175.4 -0.7 16073 Lupin-A/D 1604.1 16.15 262454 Bt Group/D 434.75 -5.4 7983943 Bh Electronic-/D 1133.7 -13.6 21383 Goodyear I -B/D 502.75 -3.75 2689 Lyka Labs-T/D 73.05 -0.65 15369 Centrica/D 200.37 -2.1 6100685 Bhansali Eng-T/D 20.8 -0.3 51664 Hcl Infosys-B/D 40.1 0.2 288753 Mafatlal Ind-B/D 341.1 -6.3 4019 Gkn/D 278.9 -1.2 971192 Bharat Bijle-B/D 902 -55.25 16820 Him.Fut.Comm-T/D 16.55 -0.05 428935 Mah.Seamless-B/D 207.6 -4.8 28427 Hsbc Holdings/D 428.75 -1.25 6448649 Bharatgears-B/D 82.7 -0.1 5815 Himat Seide-B/D 232.15 -1.3 24972 Mangalam Cem-B/D 258.2 0 3676 Kingfisher/D 356 -0.8 882019 Bhartiya Int-B/D 532 -5 6009 Hind Motors-T/D 5.07 0.01 20093 Maral Overs-B/D 28.75 -0.2 2627 Land Secs Grou/D 1134 -11 591196 Gulf stocks mixed; Bhel-A/D 121.55 -1.15 729717 Hind Org Chem-/D 16.65 0 6059 Mastek-B/D 143.4 -1 23130 Legal & Genera/D 215.3 -0.1 4019632 Bom.Burmah-B/D 415.15 -0.1 14563 Hind Unilever-/D 846.45 15.35 216515 Max Financial-/D 381 7.5 10073 Lloyds Bnk Grp/D 66.47 0.07 35230785 strong oil fails to Bombay Dyeing-/D 46.75 -0.65 82480 Hind.Petrol-A/D 835.85 4.05 43716 Mrpl-A/D 68.25 -1 139239 Marks & Sp./D 422.8 -3.8 858740 Camph.& All-B/D 588 -4.25 1276 Hindalco-A/D 89.8 0.5 865533 Nagreeka Ex-B/D 27.8 -2.2 3818 Next/D 5330 -20 128847 Canfin Homes-B/D 1217.85 -0.9 2211 Hous Dev Fin-A/D 1187.3 21.25 577969 Nagreeka Ex-B/D 27.8 -2.2 3818 Pearson/D 802.5 -7.5 279660 boost markets Castrol India-/D 415.25 -8.3 42332 I F C I-A/D 24.2 -0.05 398140 Nahar Spg.-B/D 113.2 -1.4 19407 Prudential/D 1264.5 -12.5 975230 Century Enka-B/D 213.8 0.3 20878 Idbi-A/D 63.75 -1.8 502294 Nation Alum -A/D 41.8 -0.9 81232 Rank Group/D 243.1 -0.9 30459 Century Text-A/D 613.5 1.1 136634 Ifb Agro-B/D 420.6 7.6 2003 Navneet Edu-B/D 88.3 -0.5 3066 Rentokil Initi/D 175.3 0.1 4457757 DUBAI: Gulf stock markets ended mixed yesterday, Chambal Fert-B/D 66.5 0.3 170960 Ifb Ind.Ltd.-B/D 386.5 10.6 2316 Nepc India-T/D 1.36 -0.04 1400 Rolls Royce Pl/D 652.5 2.5 615943 with a strong oil price failing to give much of a boost to Chola Invest-A/D 895.15 -0.1 2747 India Cement-A/D 89 -0.75 210774 Neuland Lab-B/D 707 -7.5 2097 Rsa Insrance G/D 471.8 2.6 367027 shares as investors focused on the blow to corporate Cimmco-B/D 72.4 2.8 1756 India Glycol-B/D 87.35 0.6 2230 O N G C-A/D 202.8 -1.35 841792 Sainsbury(J)/D 256.5 1.3 1423943 earnings expected later this year from governments’ Cipla-A/D 523.45 -7.8 80732 Indian Card-B/D 237.9 4.9 1342 Oil Country-B/D 29.45 -0.7 7413 Schroders/D 2474 -19 73290 austerity policies. City Union Bk-/D 96.15 -0.55 6116 Indian Hotel-A/D 114.85 2.35 88065 Onward Tech-B/D 75.75 -0.7 2320 Severn Trent/D 2224.37 -29 120109 Brent crude futures climbed more than 2 percent to Colgate-A/D 825.8 -10.45 33952 Indo-Tcount-T/D 922.75 -40.65 16396 Orchid Pharm-B/D 39.65 0 41447 Smith&Nephew/D 1154 -11 344518 as high as $49.08 Container Cor-/D 1369.8 30.5 7847 Indusind-A/D 1080.8 15.6 31789 Orient Hotel-T/D 21.85 -0.5 2490 Smiths Group/D 1075 0 331997 a barrel yesterday, Dai-Tichi Kar-/D 402 -14.5 4938 J.B.Chemical-B/D 263.5 5.55 11618 Orient.Carb.-T/D 490 -3.7 8712 Standrd Chart /D 507 0.5 2109776 their highest level Dcm Shram Ind-/D 144 -0.2 5119 Jagson Phar-B/D 36.25 0.15 14355 Orient.Carb.-T/D 490 -3.7 8712 Tate & Lyle/D 609.5 -3 95042 this year, after Qatar gained Dhampur Sugar-/D 91.05 -0.35 98370 Jamnaauto-B/D 145.2 -2.2 42605 Oudh Sugar-B/D 98.85 3.3 292888 Tesco/D 165.85 4.2 13079482 long-time bear 0.8 percent, Dr. Reddy-A/D 3004.25 92.15 44132 Jbf Indu-B/D 217.3 -3.6 7762 Punjab Chem.-B/D 168 1.2 1894 Unilever/D 3143.5 -22 639240 Goldman Sachs boosted by E I H-B/D 107.3 -0.7 11613 Jct Elect P -B/D 0.29 0 193654 Radico Khait-B/D 87.4 -1.05 47203 United Util Gr/D 945.5 -12 254714 said the oil mar- E.I.D Parry-A/D 235.2 6.25 57714 Jct Ltd-B/D 4.38 0.73 3625359 Rallis India-A/D 204.15 -4.7 44018 Vodafone Group/D 222.55 -1.95 9362695 ket had ended telecommunications Eicher Motor-A/D 19067.15 71.4 4949 Jenson&Nich.-B/D 8.6 0.95 98068 Rallis India-A/D 204.15 -4.7 44018 Whitbread/D 3906 -12 88343 almost two years of oversupply operator Ooredoo, and flipped to a which climbed 2.1 deficit. This buoyed percent. some Saudi European equities slide but Buffett boosts Wall Street petrochemical shares, with Saudi Kayan rising 0.7 percent and Sahara Petrochemical gaining 1.3 percent. But the biggest petrochemical stock, Saudi Basic has taken a $1bn bite into Apple report that Japan’s prime minis- level -- industrial produc- Saturday in the respected Nikkei Industries , dropped 0.6 percent and the overall Saudi London stocks shed helped push Wall Street higher. ter plans to delay a planned sales tion, retail sales and investment business daily that Shinzo Abe stock index closed just 0.1 percent higher in moderate 0.4 percent, Madrid London stocks shed 0.4 per- tax increase. growth.” had told officials he wants to put trading volume. cent, Madrid lost 1.1 percent And Shanghai stocks fin- Wall Street opened on the off the consumption tax rise to Miner Ma’aden, which has jumped 44 percent in the lost 1.1 percent and Paris dropped 0.6 percent, ished 0.8 percent higher despite upside on Monday after billion- avoid damaging the already tot- past four weeks amid hopes that it will benefit from an and Paris dropped as investors fretted over fresh the weak data, buoyed by cen- aire investor Warren Buffett took tering economy. It is not known emphasis on developing the sector that features in the evidence of China’s economic tral bank assurances that it a bite of tech giant Apple, with the how long he intends to postpone it. government’s economic reform plan, rose 1.5 percent 0.6 percent, as slowdown. would continue with policies to Dow Jones Industrial Average ris- The last rise in April 2014 to a nine-month closing high of 41.70 riyals. In Dubai investors fretted Trade was subdued how- support growth. Chinese indus- ing 0.2 percent. -- the nation’s first in 17 years -- the stock index fell 0.4 percent in thin volume. Dubai ever owing to a holiday closure trial output, retail sales and The $1bn stake in Apple was was blamed for stalling a nascent Parks and Resorts dropped 1.5 percent to 1.28 dirhams over fresh evidence in Frankfurt. fixed-asset investment all came revealed in a regulatory filing by recovery and pushing Japan into a after saying its 1.68bn dirham ($458 million) rights issue of China’s economic “It was yesterday Blues in in below expectations, the latest Buffett’s holding company Berk- recession from which it has hardly was 64 percent subscribed on the first day. slowdown. European markets after weak disappointing data out of Beijing shire Hathaway after Apple shares recovered. Holders will have until May 18 to trade the rights, economic data from China following below-par trade figures skidded last week to their lowest While experts say Tokyo must which allow the purchase of shares at 1 dirham each, released over the weekend added the previous weekend. level in two years. raise tax revenue to deal with so many investors may be selling the stock while plan- to investor woes brought about by “The FTSE 100’s rollercoaster Buffett’s entry comes weeks soaring debts and pay for the ning to buy it back via the rights. GFH Financial sank AFP Wall Street falling to its lowest in ride continues, starting the week after another billionaire, Carl ballooning cost of welfare as the 1.4 percent. It had reported a net profit attributable to a month,” said CMC Markets ana- with a quick dive, unwinding an Icahn, announced he had sold population ages, a delay is seen shareholders of $6.1 million for the first quarter of 2016, lyst Jasper Lawler. impressive rally Friday after- all his Apple holdings after an as crucial to support economic up 176 percent from a year earlier. “The Whit Monday holiday has noon,” added Lee Wild, head of extended campaign to get the growth. Abu Dhabi’s index fell 0.7 percent, hit by a 2.4 percent LONDON: European stock dampened trading volumes.” equity strategy at online stock- company to deliver more value Japan’s benchmark Nikkei slide in First Gulf Bank. But Qatar gained 0.8 percent, markets fell yesterday on disap- Asian markets however ral- broker Interactive Investor. to shareholders. shares index closed 0.3 percent boosted by telecommunications operator Ooredoo, which pointing Chinese data, but news lied following last week’s sharp “Data out of China over the In Asia meanwhile, Tokyo higher, with a weaker yen also climbed 2.1 percent. billionaire investor Warren Buffett losses, with Tokyo boosted by a weekend disappointed at every investors cheered a report providing support. BUSINESS VIEWS TUESDAY 17 MAY 2016 27

Bull market losing Nigerians brace for more biggest ally as buybacks fall most since 2009 fuel queues as crisis bites

By Lu Wang the chief equity strategist for Bloomberg Goldman Sachs Group Inc, who predicted that repurchases will increase 7 percent in 2016 and remain the primary source of US orporate America has stock demand. its eye on a new target The first-quarter slowdown as executives look to was mostly executives responding tighten their belts amid to the economic and credit stress Ca slump in profits—and this time earlier in the year, according to shareholders won’t like it. Joseph Amato, chief investment After snapping up trillions officer of equities at Neuberger of dollars of their own stock in Berman LLC in New York, where a five-year shopping binge that the firm oversees $243bn. As the dwarfed every other buyer, US fear subsides, buybacks are likely companies from Apple Inc to to stay elevated, he said. IBM Corp just put on the brakes. “The scare in the first quar- Announced repurchases dropped ter was overblown,” Amato said. 38 percent to $244bn in the last “The economy is growing on the four months, the biggest decline global basis at a reasonable level. since 2009, data compiled by That, in our mind, would suggest Birinyi Associates and Bloomb- that companies will come back erg show. and have a typical buyback pro- Coming amid the worst profit gram consistent with levels of the slump since the financial crisis, last few years.” the slowdown may signal com- Announced buybacks are panies are preserving cash as blueprints that cover strategies economic and political uncer- for two or three years and hence tainty whips up from Europe to loosely correlate to the amount China and in the US At stake is of repurchases that are executed, the primary source of buoyancy with actual buying equaling 81 for the second-longest bull market percent of authorised since 1985. in history, at a time when indi- Should the ratio hold and the pace Motorists queue up to buy petrol at a fuel station in Ahaoda in Nigeria’s oil state in the Delta region. viduals and money managers are of announced buybacks keep bailing out and valuations sit near through December, repurchases 14-year highs. would fall below $600bn for the “If the only meaningful source first time in three years. Buybacks By Libby George and Chijioke the ships and allowed any Nigerian com- producing Delta region, further reducing of demand in the market is com- hit a record $762bn in 2007. Ohuocha pany to import fuel. the state’s dollar revenues. panies buying their own shares “Pulling back on buybacks is Reuters Announced last week, the reforms were Nigeria’s production dropped this back, then what happens if that company management telling us welcomed by some in the oil industry as month to 1.65 million barrels per day from goes away?” said Brad McMillan, they are either not optimistic or badly needed steps in the right direction. 2.2 million and risks slumping to its low- chief investment officer of Com- more pessimistic than they were The changes have largely eliminated the est since 1970. monwealth Financial Network in in the past and they’re doing it he growing fleet of tankers stuck system of heavily subsidised fuel prices, In a effort to address the looming fuel Waltham, Massachusetts, which through their actions,” said Joseph off Nigeria unable to unload their removing one strain on Nigeria’s increas- shortages, the Nigerian National Petro- oversees $100 billion. “We should Veranth, chief investment officer cargoes of diesel and petrol is an ingly stretched finances. But the so-called leum Corporation (NNPC) has begun talks be concerned.” at Dana Investment Advisors in even-present reminder for President parallel market has struggled to cope with with at least three international firms Repurchases aren’t the only Brookfield, Wisconsin, which Muhammadu Buhari that another the demand for US dollars that followed the to swap more of its crude for gasoline, thing companies are cutting. As manages $7bn. “It may be a har- Tfuel crisis is looming on the horizon. reforms. according to traders and oil executives. profits fell for a fourth straight binger of a weaker outlook on At least 75 ships with two and a half Nigeria consumes 45 million litres of pet- But the drop in output due to the quarter, the number of firms behalf of management for com- million tonnes of fuel are waiting for import- rol a day, or roughly 280,000 barrels, which unrest in the Delta - as well as the fact slashing dividends rose to a pany prospects going forward.” ers in Africa’s biggest economy to find the would require the market to provide some oil firms take more physical cargoes as seven-year high. Executives are Companies are easing up at dollars they need to pay for the cargoes, $18m a day. Though importers cover about payment for services when prices are low - scaling back after handing out a time when the potency of buy- according to ship tracking data and fuel 30 percent of this, with the state oil firm means the NNPC has less crude to swap for sums of cash that exceeded their backs is waning. After beating the traders. covering the rest, it is still a big strain on the fuel. “There aren’t enough cargoes avail- earnings, an act that has drawn market by at annualized pace of Some of the vessels arrived a month market for dollars. able to NNPC,” said Dolapo Oni, head of criticism from politicians. Presi- 3.5 percentage points in the four ago and their frustrated owners have The naira has already weakened due to energy research at Ecobank. “I don’t see dential candidate Hillary Clinton years through March 2015, the almost given up hope the spike in demand for dollars from fuel how it can get more from international said in July that companies’ focus S&P 500 Buyback Index that and started to offer their importers. Last week, the US currency fell oil companies.” on share prices is hurting the tracks stocks with the highest fuel to buyers outside to 324 naira on the parallel market, whereas Signs of trouble ahead are growing. economy because it lowers invest- payout ratio has since trailed the Nigeria, several traders the official exchange rate has been held firm On Saturday, Nigeria’s two main labour ment. In the first quarter, capital broad measure by almost 10 per- told Reuters. just under 200. “The risk is that the paral- unions called for an indefinite general spending dropped 5.9 percent, the centage points. A slump in world oil lel rate will depreciate even more, giving strike from Wednesday unless the govern- most since 2009. A doubling in profit since prices has hammered the marketers a pretext for yet further price ment reverses its plan to increase the price Planned buybacks among 2009 and a borrowing binge Nigeria’s state income increases at the pump,” said Alan Cameron, of petrol, which many rely on for power American firms tumbled from a fueled by rock-bottom interest and because crude sales an economist covering Africa with Exotix generation as well as transport. year ago by $147bn, an amount rates have allowed US executives are the government’s Partners. Raising fuel prices is sensitive because equal to 2.5 times the profit S&P to hoard cash. Raising fuel prices main source of revenue President Buhari has resisted Interna- many Nigerians see the state subsidy as 500 companies lost in the 12 Even with profits in a is sensitive because the fall has caused crip- tional Monetary Fund calls to devalue the the only benefit they derive from living months through March. To be year-long decline, there’s no pling shortages of dollars naira, though Vice President Yemi Osinbajo in a major oil producing country which sure, large banks such as Citi- evidence companies are run- many Nigerians see within the economy that sparked speculation a devaluation may be is nevertheless gripped by endemic cor- group Inc. and Morgan Stanley, ning out of money. The extra the state subsidy as have been hurting busi- on the cards when he said the central bank ruption and poverty. whose capital plans are awaiting yield demanded to own corpo- nesses for months. had to change its polices. The West African country tried to Federal Reserve approval, were rate bonds versus Treasuries the only benefit they In a bid to break the Nigeria has four refineries but decades of end fuel subsidies in 2012, doubling the among the missing, and their pro- this month has fallen to levels derive from living in impasse and head off neglect mean it has to import most of its fuel, price of gasoline overnight, but later rein- grams may restart later in 2016. not seen since August. While it’s a major oil producing more fuel shortages, the which was less of a problem when crude stated some of the subsidy to end a wave Stress test results are due before down 5 percent from the end of government raised the was at $115 a barrel and the Opec member of protests. the end of June. last year, cash held by S&P 500 country which is price cap for petrol by 67 was the leading oil exporter in Africa ahead The only long-term solution for Nigeria The likelihood that companies companies excluding financial nevertheless gripped percent, officially sanc- of Angola. is to build its own refineries and fix the will increase spending as the year firms exceeds $860bn, accord- tioned importers to use As well as the slump in crude prices, infrastructure, according to Chinedu progresses was highlighted in a ing to latest corporate filings by endemic corruption the black market to find which touched a 2016 low of $27 in January Ukadike, chief of staff to the national May 12 note from David Kostin, compiled by Bloomberg. and poverty. the hard currency they and were below $48 last week, Nigeria’s out- president of the Independent Petroleum need to get cargoes off put has also been hit by instability in its oil Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN). We need central bankers who speak their minds

By Therese Raphael recent attacks may well have implications word “recession” coming from the central time when central bank purchases of gov- Bloomberg beyond this referendum campaign. bank chief made it much harder to dismiss. ernment debt were considered inflationary; The governor “has made himself a polit- Whatever other arguments exist for leaving and another when central bankers were more ical partisan and should be fired,” said Jacob the European Union — and serious ones do advisers than rate-setters and interest rates Rees-Mogg, a Conservative Member of Par- exist, as my colleague Clive Crook has argued were kept low to help service the national entral bankers these days are not liament and member of the Treasury Select — the economic case has been lost, and that debt. Modern central banking, at least before unlike like referees in a premier Committee. Norman Lamont, a former Chan- has infuriated anti-EU campaigners. the financial crisis, was more market-driven; league soccer match; they spend a cellor of the Exchequer, accused the Bank of Carney did not say that there are no good but then price stability was often confused lot of time running around the play- England governor of potentially causing a reasons for Britain to leave the EU. In previous for financial stability. Cers only to be accused of making biased or financial crisis. “If his unwise words become House of Commons testimony, he explicitly said The BOE’s mandate got redefined again bad calls whenever they blow a whistle. self-fulfilling, the responsibility will be the that economic questions are “not the totality of after the financial crisis. The Financial Pol- Donald Trump called Janet Yellen “highly governor’s and the governor’s alone.” the considerations” that people should think icy Committee and the Prudential Regulation political” last year before more recently say- The unflappable Canadian hit back Sunday about. “We will not be making and nothing we Authority (Carney chairs both) were set up ing he would probably replace her because on the BBC’s The Andrew Marr Show. The BOE’s say should be interpreted as making any rec- by 2012 legislation to help the bank manage she’s not a Republican. Mario Draghi has been job is to identify risks, not wish them away. “This ommendation with respect to that.” Carney systemic risk. Given that remit, to have with- repeatedly dressed down by German Econ- is the difference between denial and transpar- did not make any long-term prognostications; held analysis of the economic risks of an EU Carney did not omy Minister Wolfgang Schaeuble. But neither ency.” What Carney actually said last week was he was talking about the short-term, which is exit would have been political in the extreme. make any long-term attack went as far as the politically motivated that a vote to leave the EU in June “could have what BOE forecasts take into account so that The BOE’s founding principle, which Car- assaults on Bank of England Governor Mark material economic effects — on the exchange they can inform monetary policy. He was clear ney likes to cite, is “to promote the good of prognostications; He Carney, including calls for his head after he rate, on demand, and on the economy’s supply that the implications for monetary policy can- the people of the United Kingdom.” There is was talking about the warned last week of negative consequences potential — that could affect the appropriate not be guessed in advance and would depend bitter disagreement in Britain right now over if the U.K. leaves the European Union. setting of monetary policy”. That was central- on how big an impact on supply, demand and whether the good of the people lies within short-term, which is what The attacks on Carney are part of the banker speak; but his talk of the possibility of a exchange rates the move had. or without the European Union. It is not the BOE forecasts take into heated battle over Britain’s future relationship “technical recession” was plain English. All of this is perfectly within his remit. The governor’s job to express a view on Britain’s account so that they can with Europe. With stakes this high, shoot- None of this was revelatory. Every seri- criticism of Carney misunderstands (or simply June 23 referendum. But he does have a clear ing the messenger may seem a good option. ous study of the effects of British withdrawal ignores) the role of the central bank gover- obligation to lay out the risks to financial sta- inform monetary policy. Those denouncing the central bank as “polit- has highlighted the costs of leaving, at least nor. That role, of course, has been periodically bility—and then leave it to the players decide icized” are too often seeking just that. But the in the short to medium term. But hearing the redefined, sometimes radically. There was a what to do with that information. 28 TUESDAY 17 MAY 2016 BUSINESS

BACK TO BUSINESS sight

Boeing’s 787 Dreamliner faces Central bankers’ wisdom faulted as gold new challenge: Slow sales holdings surge 25%

By Ranjeetha Pakiam low. “Second, lingering fears of By Alwyn Scott Bloomberg competitive currency devalua- Reuters tions and potentially fresh bouts of market volatility encourage safe-haven demand.” he great gold rush After the Fed raised rates in of 2016 is gathering December, investors have been oeing Co’s high-tech 787 Dreamliner has pace. Holdings in scaling back expectations of fur- had its share of trouble, from early pro- exchange-traded ther increases amid concern about duction delays to batteries that smoked fundsT have now surged by a the strength of the global recov- and burned, grounding the worldwide quarter, with investors taking ery. The chances of a hike at next fleet for months in 2013. advantage of lower prices over month’s policy meet are just 4 BNow the company’s flagship plane is facing a the past two weeks to enlarge percent, down from 75 percent new challenge: slowing sales. Boeing needs to sell stakes on rising concern about at the start of the year, according dozens of 787s to help recover nearly $30 billion central bank policy making to Bloomberg data. Higher US bor- it has spent on production and not yet accounted worldwide. rowing costs typically hurt gold for in its earnings. But the industry is in a sales The holdings have increased prices while boosting the dollar. slump. Sales of Boeing and Airbus wide body jets to 1,822.3 tonnes, the most since Bullion for immediate deliv- have fallen 51 percent since 2013, and some analysts December 2013, according to ery has rallied 21 percent this and investors predict that without more 787 sales data compiled by Bloomberg, year, gaining to $1,303.82 an in the near term, Boeing will have to take a siza- after bottoming at a seven-year ounce on May 2, the highest ble charge to write off some of the 787’s deferred A screenshot from the video showing the Boeing Dreamliner 787-9 on a steep takeoff during low in January. In the past two price since January 2015. The costs. (Graphic: http://tmsnrt.rs/24RUBiz) a rehearsal ahead of Paris Air show. weeks, as prices lost 1.6 percent, metal traded 0.7 percent higher The 787 remains popular. Its lightweight com- ETFs swelled 63.2 tonnes, rising at $1,282.40 an ounce at 4:30 posite airframe and new engines cut airline fuel Financial Officer Greg Smith said last month, refer- four largest airlines recently and said low oil prices every day. p.m. in Singapore, according to costs as much as 20 percent compared to a con- ring to generally accepted accounting principles. had not dented their long-term interest in the 787. Gold is the best-performing Bloomberg generic pricing. ventional, aluminum plane. It can fly longer routes The 787 conundrum has made some investors Chinese airlines have so far ordered 56 of the jets. major metal this year after silver Singer — whose firm Elli- than previous jets its size, and offers passengers wary of Boeing stock, which has fallen more than 8 While its sales force tries to defend the 787’s amid rising concern over nega- ott Management Corp oversees large windows, less noise and a more comforta- percent this year while the aerospace and defense prices in the market, Boeing is working to make tive rates in Europe and Japan and about about $28bn — told cli- ble cabin environment. index climbed more than 5 percent. Short sales of the aircraft less expensive to build. It has worked whether the Federal Reserve will ents last month that if investors’ Boeing has sold 1,154 so far, making it the fast- Boeing are at a record high. The stock closed down on taking out expensive materials such as titanium be able to tighten further. Demand confidence in central bankers’ est-selling wide body plane when it came to market. 1.7 percent at $132.09 on Friday. and is cutting its overall airplane division work- jumped to the second-highest level “judgment continues to weaken, However, the tally falls short of the 1,300 planes Boeing needs to book orders for about 120 this force by about 10 percent this year. ever in the first quarter, accord- the effect on gold could be very Boeing is using as the basis of deferring the charges year to hit its target of selling roughly as many as it Those moves would help improve the return ing to the World Gold Council, and powerful.” Stan Druckenmiller, in its accounting. builds. So far it has sold a net total of 12, including on each 787, which reached break even late last billionaire hedge fund manager the billionaire investor, said this Many airlines stocked up on 787s before the a recent order from China Eastern Airlines. year, Boeing said. It also gives scope to discount Paul Singer has said gold’s rally month while the bull market in 2008-2009 financial crisis and do not need to order “Would we ever order the 787 again? Sure,” said the jet to win sales. may just be beginning. Investors stocks is exhausted, gold is his more now. Airbus’s cheaper A330 has also chipped an executive with a leasing company that has 787s Boeing says it is not cutting prices significantly are being driven to gold on a struc- largest currency allocation. away at 787 sales and low fuel prices have allowed in its portfolio. “Will we order it this year? Not a to sell more aircraft, since that would undercut the tural shift in investment demand, While central bank policies airlines to keep flying older, less efficient planes. chance.” There are simply too many wide body jets company’s goal of lifting profit margins to “mid- according to Bernard Aw, a strat- may have contributed to gold’s “Airlines are coming back to us and saying for the demand right now, he said. teens” by the end of the decade from about 10 egist at IG Asia Pte. gains this year, some countries’ they would like to extend their leases for two or AerCap had more than 80 Dreamliners to lease percent this year. “Firstly, the negative interest banks — notably in China, Russia three years” on older planes, said Aengus Kelly, and has placed all but a handful. It would buy more “We are not going to chase market share for rate environment and quantita- and Kazakhstan — have also been chief executive of AerCap Holdings, which has the “if the price is right,” Kelly said. “But if it isn’t right, market share’s sake,” Chief Executive Dennis tive-easing policies are reducing substantial and consistent buyers. world’s largest leased wide body fleet. “That’s a I wouldn’t bother.” Muilenburg told Boeing’s annual analyst confer- the pool of suitable investment The World Gold Council estimates direct result of low oil,” he told Reuters. Boeing spokesman Paul Bergman said that the ence on Wednesday. options, and making gold less that nations are expected to buy Boeing has not commented on a report earlier company had “a healthy sales pipeline this year.” But industry experts said the company is being costly to hold,” Aw said, add- 400 to 600 tonnes this year, com- this year that the Securities and Exchange Com- It also expects to “recover 787 deferred costs in more aggressive in sales. Ken Raff, executive direc- ing that while there may be pared with 566.3 tonnes in 2015, mission is looking into its accounting for 787 costs, the current accounting quantity of 1,300 planes,” tor at the Seabury Group consulting firm said that more US rate hikes in the pipe- according to Alistair Hewitt, head but says it stands behind its numbers. Bergman said. Another big order still could arrive if an airline wanted to buy 787s, “this would not be line, prevailing rates remain very of market intelligence. “Our accounting is compliant with GAAP,” Chief from China or elsewhere. Kelly met with China’s a bad time to try and do a deal.”

The production declines will help rebalance the (energy) Capital market and will be positive for prices. Neil Beveridge, Hong Kong- based analyst at Sanford C. Comment Bernstein & Co.

TOP TWEETS BLOGS AND VIEWS IIF @IIF Name in the Market CFO Journal Nearly $10 trillion of world’s bonds now CHINESE MERGERS&ACQUISITIONS have negative yields With technology playing a larger role in driving company value and World Bank Energy @ competitive advantage, it is more WBG_Energy important than ever that CFOs Bahrain is the 1st MENA collaborate closely and effectively country to endorse @ WorldBank initiative to with CIOs #EndRoutineFlaring

Argaam Plus @ ArgaamPlus #SaudiArabia set to get DealB%k 75 #hotels over next 4 years

Warren Buffett and Dan Gilbert Fractal Forecasting @ unite in bid to acquire Yahoo. FA_Forecasting The unusual presence of Gilbert and Buffett in the bidding Warren Buffett: Valu- suggest just how far Yahoo and ing a business is part art and part science. its advisers have cast their net to find potential buyers. www.thepeninsulaqatar.com PAGE | 30 PAGE | 35 Daddy’s pride as Lowry stars as Murray masters Raptors down MMiamiiami Djokovic in Rome to make history

TUESDAY 17 MAY 2016 • 10 SHA’BAAN 1437 thepeninsulaqatar @peninsulaqatar @peninsula_qatar

Winning a trophy in front United face multi-million of cheering crowds is bill for fake bomb ‘fiasco’ what I dreamt of: Ayitey The Peninsula defender identified one key moment in his sides quest to lift the Workers ordered. Army experts staged a “con- Cup crown. trolled explosion” before police “The icing on the cake was Man United vows to announced that the suspect device DOHA: The highly competitive Qatar the meeting with FIFA President reimburse tickets was “incredibly lifelike” but “wasn’t Stars League came to its close for Infantino in the semi-final. It was viable.” another season as Al Rayyan lifted unbelievable when Mr. Infantino of 75,000 fans after Greater Manchester police assist- the QSL title for the first time in 21 came on to the pitch while we were their second security ant chief constable John O’Hare said: years. Later, El Jaish lifted their celebrating our semi-final victory. scare of the week “On appearance this device was as second ever Qatar Cup. While in the I went up to the President, shook real as could be, and the decision to Workers Cup, Taleb Group won the his hand and told him that this was evacuate the stadium was the right Workers Cup in dramatic style edging a childhood dream come true” noted thing to do, until we could be sure that out GCC in a penalty shootout. Ayitey when asked about his meet- AFP people were not at risk.” “Winning a trophy in front of ing with the head of the world game. United’s vice-chairman Ed Wood- cheering crowds is what I dreamt of Reflecting on the final against GCC ward said an investigation would be when I started playing football,” said Ayitey was pleased that his side launched to guide “future actions and Jerry Ayitey, the experienced Gha- remained tough at the back through- MANCHESTER: A fake bomb inside decisions.” naian player minutes after he had out the match “It was tough in regular Old Trafford that forced the aban- British media named the com- slotted in his side’s first penalty in time,” he said. donment of Manchester United’s last pany that left the device in the the 3-1 shootout win against a valiant “GCC are a good side and dom- Premier League game of the season stadium as Security Search Manage- Gulf Contracting at Al Ahli Stadium. inated possession. I had to be at my triggered angry callsyesterday for ment and Solutions. Looking back on his side’s jour- very best at the back and I am proud action as the club faced a multi-mil- They said the firm had staged a ney to the final, the tough tackling we did not concede.” lion pound bill for the “fiasco”. training exercise for sniffer dogs at As inquiries started into the Old Trafford but left the fake bomb incident which led to bomb dis- behind. posal experts blowing up a mobile Christopher Reid, owner of Secu- phone attached to a gas pipe, United rity Search Management, told the Frustrating QSL season vowed to reimburse the tickets of Daily Mail his company was “getting 75,000 fans who were evacuated the blame” for the fake bomb but Sunday ahead of the game against refused to make any comment until Bournemouth. after he had spoken with Manches- for inconsistent Al Arabi They will also give them free ter United. entry to Tuesday’s rearranged match The incident left a number of against the south-coast side. That spectators deeply disappointed. The Peninsula At times, Arabi looked a differ- gesture alone could cost United more About 3,500 Bournemouth fans ent side from one week to the next. than three million pounds (3.8 mil- made a 500-mile (800-kilome- Comfortable wins one week would lion euros/$4.3 million). tre) round trip to Manchester to see be followed up with large defeats Tony Lloyd, Manchester’s mayor their club’s first league game at Old DOHA: Al Arabi went into the the next. and police and crime commissioner, Trafford. 2015/2016 Qatar Stars League season One player who was ever reliable said: “It is outrageous this situation Bournemouth manager Eddie on a high, after signing Italian head for Arabi this term was their Brazilian arose. Howe told the local Daily Echo news- coach Gianfranco Zola. The former attacker Paulinho. The former Torino “A full inquiry is required to paper: “It was a real anti-climax to West Ham manager was charged man was an ever present goal threat urgently find out how this happened, a day everyone had been looking with putting the Dream Team back for the Dream Team this term and why it happened and who will be held forward to. But all those disappoint- in the top 4 places. Aside from Zola, racked up 12 goals for his side. accountable. ments and emotions really go out of Arabi also recruited French defender Three defeats to lesser oppo- “This fiasco caused massive the window when you think about the Rod Fanni to add some much needed nents Al Sailiya, Al Wakrah and Al inconvenience to supporters who had supporters and everything they have experience. Khor along with a 1-1 draw with rel- come from far and wide to watch the put into the day -- financial costs, Everything started so well for egation threatened Qatar SC. With A sniffer dog searches the stands after fans evacuated Old Trafford match, wasted the time of huge num- time, effort.” Arabi, they won their first four QSL Arabi’s top four ambitions all but over, bers of police officers and the army’s Sam Stride, a United supporter Stadium in Manchester, northwest England, on Monday, after the games and became the early pace Gianfranco Zola’s limped across the bomb squad, and unnecessarily put from Bristol, said: “Unbelievable. English Premier League football match between Manchester United setters with Al Rayyan at the top of line picking up just three wins in their people in danger, as evacuating tens This is the first time I have been to and Bournemouth was abandoned. Police ordered Manchester United the table. A shock 1-0 defeat to Al final ten games of the season. of thousands of people from a football Old Trafford to see a game. My mate to abandon their final Premier League game of the season against Gharafa didn’t phrase Zola’s side Curiously these wins came over stadium is not without risk.” and I have known each other for 63 Bournemouth on Sunday after a suspicious package was discovered and turned out their best perform- the likes of Lekhwiya (1-0) Al Gharafa Officials said a company which years and we travelled up from Bris- at Old Trafford. ance of the season with a thrilling (2-1) and El Jaish (2-0) in what was conducted a security exercise at Old tol together. We sat in the Stretford 3-2 win in round five over title chas- arguably Zola’s finest moment in Trafford had left the fake bomb -- a End for about five seconds before week after their team bus was money for a fan who had travelled ing Lekhwiya. charge of the Dream Team. mobile phone attached to a gas pipe they asked us to leave. It’s very attacked by West Ham United fans from Sierra Leone to see his first Old They fell to a 5-2 defeat in their Just one point from the final -- in a stadium toilet. disappointing.” on Tuesday. Trafford game to get a ticket for next derby match with Al Rayyan, much to twelve on offer, meant that Arabi The device was found just before Sunday’s incident was Unit- The Manchester United Sup- Saturday’s FA Cup final against Crys- the frustrations of head coach Gian- finished in a disappointing eighth Sunday’s kick-off and the evacuation ed’s second security scare of the porters Trust said it had raised the tal Palace at Wembley. franco Zola. position in the QSL standings. Prozone Match Analytics Course: QSL awards certificates to students

The Peninsula Hamar picked up their certificates in rec- The graduating group then received ognition of successful completion of the their certificates and posed for a photo. course. Speaking at the end of the event Al Sailiya Speaking at the start of the ceremony, stars Majdi Siddiq and Mirgani Babiker DOHA: The Qatar Stars League (QSL) Foot- CEO Ballan expressed his gratitude to the where happy to have been involved in ball Development Department jointly with graduates. “On behalf of everyone at the the course. Prozone Sports Ltd., awarded participants QSL I would like to congratulate you on “I would like to thank the QSL, who has of their recent four day educational course reaching this milestone. I would also like helped put on this course. I have found it on the use of the Prozone match analyt- to thank Qatar University and Prozone very insightful and a useful tool for myself ics system. for their efforts in this course and I look especially for now and in the future for a The brief award ceremony was forward to further collaboration in the career after football” claimed midfielder attended by QSL’s CEO Hani Ballan, Ahmed training and development of football ana- Siddiq. Mirgani Babiker was also proud to Al Harmi, Executive Director of Competi- lysts in Qatar.” have graduated from the course in football tion and Football Development and Miguel WhileAhmed Al Harmi also similar analysis, with the help of the QSL. Heitor, Director of Football Development sentiments to the graduates; “I would like “This course has been really helpful at the QSL. to thank all the participants today, It’s good for me, not only to develop as a player but Qatar Stars League’s CEO Hani Ballan, Ahmed Al Harmi, Executive Director of Competition and Zlatan Aganovic, Saad Al Qurashi, to see a mixture of professional players also as a career option moving forward. Khalid Al Subaie, Shady Mami, Naeem and graduates in the group. I would like to Courses like this are a huge step forward Football Development and Miguel Heitor, Director of Football Development at the QSL, with the Ahmad, Azam Mohamed, Mirgani Alzain thank you for all your efforts in the course for players in Qatar and how to develop students who received certificates upon successful completion of the Prozone match analytics Elnour Babiker, Magdi Abdallas Musa, and I hope to see you all working in the these analytical skills, which are impor- course, jointly conducted by the Qatar Stars League (QSL) Football Development Department and Abdulaziz Al Muhannadi and Khalid Al football family as analysts in the future.” tant in football.” Prozone Sports Ltd. 30 TUESDAY 17 MAY 2016 SPORT

Murray back up to second in Daddy’s pride as Murray world rankings AFP

PARIS: Andy Murray has reclaimed second place in the masters Djokovic in Rome world rankings from Roger Fed- erer after beating world number one Novak Djokovic in the final of the Rome Masters on Sunday. The Scot underlined his cre- dentials for the upcoming French Britain’s best is Open at Roland Garros by beat- ing Djokovic 6-3, 6-3 on his 29th all smiles after birthday. conquering world Elsewhere, Milos Raonic of Canada is up a place to ninth and number one Novak Richard Gasquet climbs two places Djokovic in the clay to 10th. Their rise comes at the final at Rome expense of Spain’s David Ferrer, who drops three places to 12th after his third-round defeat in Rome to Lucas Pouille of France. Meanwhile, it was announced AFP yesterday that Tomas Berdych has split with coach Daniel Vallverdu just ahead of this month’s French ROME: Britain’s Andy Murray said Open due to his disappointing pride at becoming a new father may results in the recent past. have given him the edge as he stunned The 30-year-old Berdych is world number one Novak Djokovic to yet to reach a single final this sea- win his maiden Rome Masters title. son and has already lost 10 times, Murray, the number two seed including a disappointing sec- who suffered defeat to Djokovic in ond-round loss to world number last week’s Masters final in Madrid, 71 Damir Dzumhur in the Monaco celebrated his 29th birthday in style Masters. on Sunday with a stylish 6-3, 6-3 vic- tory in one hour, 35 minutes. ATP Top 20 It is only Murray’s third clay- court title after his maiden victories 1. Novak Djokovic (SRB) 16,150 pts on the red dirt in Munich and Madrid 2. Andy Murray (GBR) 8,435 (+1) last year, but comes in timely fashion just two weeks before the start of the 3. Roger Federer (SUI) 7,015 (-1) French Open at Roland Garros. Britain’s Andy Murray poses with the 4. Stan Wawrinka (SUI) 6,110 Becoming the first Briton to win tennis court crew after winning the 5. Rafael Nadal (ESP) 5,675 in Rome since Patrick Hughes in 1931, final match against Serbia’s Novak it is also the first time Murray’s name Djokovic in Rome on Sunday. 6. Kei Nishikori (JPN) 4,470 has been added to a trophy since the 7. Jo-Wilfried Tsonga (FRA) 3,355 birth of his daughter four months ago. He said the arrival of his daugh- 8. Tomas Berdych (CZE) 2,850 ter has changed his outlook on life, number two in the ATP rankings, “I’m not taking anything away began to come apart in a second set cost me points recently has not been 9. Milos Raonic (CAN) 2,785 (+1) but believes it will ultimately “have a albeit well behind runaway leader from Andy’s win. that saw umbrellas come out and my serve. Last week, it was the same positive effect on my tennis career”. Djokovic. “He was the best player of the hoods pulled up due to the occasional thing in Madrid, and it gives me a lot 10. Richard Gasquet (FRA) 2,725 (+2) “The last thing I looked at today But it is Murray’s growing power tournament. spattering of rain. of confidence.” 11. Marin Cilic (CRO) 2,715 before I went on the court was a pic- on clay that most fans will take away “He’s using the court better now, Leading 2-1, Djokovic complained Murray broke in the seventh ture of my daughter,” said Murray. from a performance that Djokovic, and has more variety in his shots from to the umpire about the lack of a rain game of the second set for a 4-3 lead, 12 David Ferrer (ESP) 2,650 (-3) In reality, Murray’s clay-court visibly more fatigued after being the baseline.” stoppage and minutes later, still bat- prompting Djokovic -- from his chair 13. David Goffin (BEL) 2,570 game is coming along nicely but a pushed to a three-hour semi-final by The slippery conditions were not tling to win the fourth game, he began -- to start demanding a halt to the week after his Madrid defeat the stars Japan’s Kei Nishikori, while Murray to Djokovic’s liking and Murray, who remonstrating with himself. game due to rain due to the threat of 14. Gaël Monfils (FRA) 2,470 aligned for the Scot. finished much earlier after cruising had no complaints about the weather, The Serbian skimmed his racket injuries. 15. Dominic Thiem (AUT) 2,430 “Every time I go up against him past French lucky loser Lucas Pouille, tried to capitalise. off the ground in another angry ges- He explained later: “I didn’t ask I know I have to play great tennis to could only salute. He won 16 of his first 19 service ture after Murray got the first break to postpone the match. I asked for a 16. Roberto Bautista (ESP) 2,015 (+1) win,” said Murray. “Any time you beat “I knew it would be an uphill ride,” points, taking a 5-2 lead with an ace of the set in game five. little break to give us five minutes to 17. John Isner (USA) 2,010 (-1) the best player in the world, it’s a big said Djokovic. down the T, and then wrapped up the From then on, Djokovic’s game fell arrange the court. 18. Gilles Simon (FRA) 1,945 win.” “He’s been playing at a very high opener with a sublime forehand drop- apart as Murray built on his noticeably “We played on a very heavy court, After Roger Federer fell in the level and to compete with him in shot winner to wrap up the set in 46 superior serve, adding variety with it had been raining for an hour it was 19. Nick Kyrgios (AUS) 1,875 (+1) third round, Murray was already the long rallies that we usually have minutes. drops shots and volleys at the net. very muddy behind the baseline and I 20. Kevin Anderson (RSA) 1,795 (-1) assured of jumping one place up to requires a lot of energy. Djokovic’s game, and nerves Murray added: “The thing that has almost twisted my ankle three times.”

exits in Rome. Murray a big Serbian Novak Djokovic reacts during Seven-time Rome Serena reinforces huge his final match against Andy Murray at champion Nadal was French Open the Italian Open at the Foro Italico in ousted in the quarters by rankings lead Rome, Italy, on Sunday. Murray won Djokovic, but two days threat, says 6-3, 6-3. after Djokovic called beat- ing the Spaniard on clay AFP Djokovic “the ultimate challenge”, Nadal gave little indication he fears for his prospects PARIS: Serena Williams reinforced her huge lead at the top of the WTA in Paris. rankings a week out from the start of the AFP “I think I am playing French Open after winning the Italian well during the whole clay Open on Sunday. court season,” Nadal said Williams beat fellow American Madi- ROME: Novak Djokovic underlined after his defeat on Friday. son Keys in the final in Rome to set herself the growing clay-court threat of Andy “And today I was there up nicely for Roland Garros. Murray barely a fortnight from the mentally, fighting for every Second place in the rankings was French Open after conceding defeat point, hitting good shots.” reclaimed by Poland’s Agnieszka Rad- to the British number one in the final Wawrinka, beaten by wanska from Germany’s Angelique Kerber, of the Rome Masters. Juan Monaco in the third who suffered an early exit in the Italian Murray, the number two seed round, is set to play in capital. who suffered defeat to Djokovic in Geneva this week as he Elsewhere, Victoria Azarenka moved last week’s Masters final in Madrid, struggles for match-win- up a place to fifth at the expense of Roma- celebrated his 29th birthday in style ning confidence ahead of nia’s Simona Halep and Timea Bacsinszky with a stylish 6-3, 6-3 victory over the defence of his title in and Flavia Pennetta were also climbers the Serbian in one hour, 35 minutes Paris. in the top 10. on Sunday. There are even big- It was Murray’s first title in Rome, ger doubts on Federer, WTA TOP 20 the third clay-court title of his career who won the Roland Gar- 1. Serena Williams (USA) 9,030 pts after victories on the red dirt in ros title just once in 2009, 2. Agnieszka Radwanska (POL) 5,850 (+1) Munich and Madrid last year and, and exited Rome still com- 3. Angelique Kerber (GER) 5,740 (-1) more importantly, comes in timely plaining of a back injury fashion. which forced him out in 4. Garbine Muguruza (ESP) 5,196 Murray’s powerful serve had Madrid. 5. Victoria Azarenka (BLR) 4,341 (+1) Djokovic in trouble on more than one you know, a couple of clay-court on my tennis career”. Serena Williams, meanwhile, 6. Simona Halep (ROM) 4,301 (-1) occasion during a rain-hit 1hr 35mins tournaments the last couple of years “The last thing I looked at today heads to Paris brimming with con- 7. Roberta Vinci (ITA) 3,505 final in which he requested, without proves it. before I went on the court was a pic- fidence ahead of her bid for a third 8. Belinda Bencic (SUI) 3,330 success, a break amid fears he would “At the French Open, the condi- ture of my daughter,” said Murray. title at Roland Garros that wold take slip and injure his ankle. tions are also a bit quicker, which he A week after his Madrid defeat, her Grand Slam tally to 22. 9. Timea Bacsinszky (SUI) 3,150 (+1) But Murray showed progress in likes. He’s been consistently playing the stars aligned for the Scot thanks The American swept past 21-year- 10. Flavia Pennetta (ITA) 2,963 (+3) other areas, and although Djoko- well (at Roland Garros) throughout to Djokovic coming in fatigued after old compatriot Madison Keys 7-6 (7/5), 11. Venus Williams (USA) 2,886 (+3) vic heads to Paris looking to make the years, and I’m sure he’s going to his late semi-final against Japan’s Kei 6-3 to claim her fourth Italian Open 12. Petra Kvitova (CZE) 2,878 (-3) amends for last year’s stunning defeat be very motivated to do well again. Nishikori on Saturday. victory on Sunday, first title of the 13. Lucie Safarova (CZE) 2,843 (+2) to Swiss Stan Wawrinka, Murray “He’s going to come in great form But Murray stressed: “Every time season and 70th of her career. 14. Carla Suarez Navarro (ESP) 2,585 (-3) has just become a potentially bigger to Paris.” Becoming the first Briton to I go up against him I know I have to Williams becomes just the fifth obstacle to his hopes of a 12th Grand win in Rome since Patrick Hughes in play great tennis to win. Any time you woman to achieve such a total in sin- 15. Svetlana Kuznetsova (RUS) 2,585 (+4) Slam title. 1931, it is the first time Murray’s name beat the best player in the world, it’s gles after Martina Navratilova, Chris 16. Ana Ivanovic (SRB) 2,560 “I think he’s using the court bet- has been added to a trophy since the a big win.” Evert, Steffi Graf and Margaret Court. 17. Madison Keys (USA) 2,541 (+7) ter now. He has more variety in his birth of his baby daughter. In Paris, nine-time French Open “I’m going to definitely go in there 18. Sara Errani (ITA) 2,450 shots from the baseline play, so obvi- He said the arrival of his daughter champion Rafael Nadal and Swiss and I feel more calm and I don’t feel 19. Karolina Pliskova (CZE) 2,420 (+1) ously he did improve,” said Djokovic. has changed his outlook on life and it pair Wawrinka and Roger Federer stress to, like, have to win,” she said “Winning Madrid and Rome and, will ultimately “have a positive effect will be out to make amends for early yesterday. 20. Elina Svitolina (UKR) 2,416 (-3) SPORT TUESDAY 17 MAY 2016 31 Euro 2016: England name provisional squad

A large screen displays England squad members on the facade of Wembley Stadium following the announcement of the provisional 26-man England national squad for Euro 2016 in London yesterday.

a press conference at Wembley: “He to be named in provisional @England deserves to be selected. It’ll be inter- squad for the euros.... Will give my all Man United’s teenage esting to see what he can do, even if he over next few weeks to try and make sensation Rashford only has one week (in training) before final squad!” I name the final 23. England begin their final prepa- and Newcastle United “There’s no reason why he rations for the Euro with a friendly winger Townsend find couldn’t knock someone off their against Turkey in Manchester on Sun- favour with coach perch (and earn a place in the final day and will also tackle Australia and squad). But that will be harder than Portugal before departing for France Roy Hodgson some people expect.” early next month. Hodgson must reduce his squad Provisional England squad to 23 players for the tournament in Goalkeepers: Fraser Forster France, which sees England drawn (Southampton), Joe Hart (Manches- AFP alongside Slovakia, Russia and neigh- ter City), Tom Heaton (Burnley) bours Wales in Group B. Defenders: Ryan Bertrand (South- Arsenal pair Alex Oxlade- ampton), Gary Cahill (Chelsea), Chamberlain and Danny Welbeck Nathaniel Clyne (Liverpool), Danny LONDON: Manchester United’s teen- had already been ruled out of the Rose (Tottenham Hotspur), Chris age sensation Marcus Rashford and tournament by injury, while Man- Smalling (Manchester United), John Newcastle United winger Andros chester United left-back Luke Shaw Stones (Everton), Kyle Walker (Tot- Townsend were named in a provi- has not returned to action since tenham Hotspur) Manchester United’s English striker Marcus Rashford warms up ahead of the English Premier League match sional 26-man England squad for sustaining a double leg break last Midfielders: Dele Alli (Totten- Euro 2016 yesterday. September. against Bournemouth at Old Trafford in Manchester, northwest England, on Sunday. RIGHT: Newcastle ham Hotspur), Ross Barkley (Everton), The uncapped Rashford, 18, has Everton centre-back Phil Jagielka United’s Andros Townsend reacts during the English Premier League match agaisnt Tottenham Hotspur at Fabian Delph (Manchester City), Eric burst onto the scene with United this was another high-profile absentee, Saint James’ Park Stadium in Newcastle, Britain on Sunday. Dier (Tottenham Hotspur), Danny season, scoring seven goals in 16 having struggled with injury in recent Drinkwater (Leicester City), Jordan games, while Townsend, who won the months, while there was an unex- Henderson (Liverpool), Adam Lallana last of his 10 England caps in October, pected call-up for Manchester City his first start of the season for Arsenal said: “They’re both good players. win over Villa with a slight hamstring (Liverpool), James Milner (Liverpool), has impressed since joining Newcastle midfielder Fabian Delph. in Sunday’s 4-0 win over Aston Villa, They’re very different players. They injury, was also omitted from Hodg- Raheem Sterling (Manchester City), from Tottenham Hotspur in January. Manchester United midfielder having previously been sidelined by play in wide positions, but they’re not son’s squad for the 2014 World Cup. Andros Townsend (Newcastle United), Arsenal’s Jack Wilshere and Liv- Michael Carrick, Everton left-back a fractured shin. similar players. “Andros was unlucky He wrote on Twitter: “I am of Jack Wilshere (Arsenal) erpool’s Jordan Henderson were both Leighton Baines and in-form Sunder- “Absolutely buzzing!” he wrote on to lose his place when he was not get- course disappointed not to make the Forwards: Harry Kane (Tot- included after recent spells on the land striker Jermain Defoe all missed Twitter. “I can’t wait to meet up with ting a regular place. He’s done very squad, but I have spoken with Roy and tenham Hotspur), Marcus Rashford sidelines, but there was no place for out. Premier League champions the squad and start preparing for the well at Newcastle. Theo has not had respect his decision. I wish Roy and (Manchester United), Wayne Rooney Wilshere’s club-mate Theo Walcott. Leicester City had two representatives euros. Thanks for all the messages.” such regular games and has had a all the team the best of luck for a suc- (Manchester United, capt), Daniel Explaining Rashford’s call-up, in midfielder Danny Drinkwater and On his decision to select tough time with injuries.” cessful Euro’s.” Sturridge (Liverpool), Jamie Vardy England manager Roy Hodgson told striker Jamie Vardy. Wilshere made Townsend over Walcott, Hodgson Walcott, who sat out Arsenal’s Townsend tweeted: “Huge honour (Leicester City)

My heart tells me to stay at Rashford selection turns spotlight on Rooney Newcastle, Reuters Rashford, however, could be Turkey, Portugal and Australia. says Benitez Hodgson’s wildcard should any England football manager Rooney is an important player but of that trio suffer a setback in the Roy Hodgson speaks at a he is not demanding to play in the warm-up games against Turkey, Aus- press conference where opening game. I am under no pres- Reuters LONDON: Teenager Marcus Rashford tralia and Portugal. he named the provisional sure to select him.” has already taken Wayne Rooney’s Hodgson tempered talk of Rash- 26-man England squad Hodgson said Rooney would have place in the Manchester United for- ford being in the final 23. for Euro 2016 at Wembley no say in the final 23. “That would not LONDON: Rafa Benitez said his ward line, now he threatens to do the “We have had good feedback Stadium in London be correct. His responsibility is as a heart was telling him to stay as same at international level after Roy from Manchester United on the yesterday. player, then captain. I am not certain Newcastle United boss next sea- Hodgson included him yesterday in player,” he said. I want him involved in who I should son despite their relegation from his 26-man preliminary squad for “We have a good group of for- pick,” Hodgson said. the Premier League. Euro 2016. ward players and plenty of players With a final Premier League The Spaniard, who began the The 18-year-old’s stunning who can be in the front positions. game to come and next weekend’s FA season in charge of Real Madrid, impact at Old Trafford since mak- “If he continues to develop, there Cup final, Rashford, who has scored was hired by Newcastle in March ing his debut in February has earned is no reason why he cannot become a seven goals in 16 United appearances, to try and extricate them from him the chance to force his way on regular in the England team.” has the chance to impress Hodgson. the relegation zone, a feat he just the plane to France, just as question There is no question of Rooney, But whether or not he makes failed to achieve. Yet the Magpies marks are being raised about where who burst into the international lime- the final 23, his inclusion in the 26, finished on a high, thrashing third- skipper Rooney will fit in. light as an 18-year-old at Euro 2004 together with several other young- placed Tottenham Hotspur 5-1 on Both are listed in the five forwards when he helped England to the quar- sters, augurs well for the future, Sunday and Benitez’s name was Hodgson has pencilled in for the tour- ter-finals, not going to France. With Spurs young guns Dele Alli could, however, prove vital. according to former England for- sung by fans who see him as the nament, although that number is likely But with so many striking and Eric Dier pushing for starting “Wayne Rooney is the captain ward Gary Lineker. man to guide them straight back. to drop to four with Leicester City’s options, a starting place is no longer roles and Manchester City’s Raheem and has done a fantastic job. 109 “Bags of talented youngsters. He has a clause in his contract title winner Jamie Vardy, Tottenham guaranteed for England’s all-time Sterling offering width and pace, even games and 51 goals and there are Great experience for them. Give them that says he can leave if Newcas- Hotspur’s Golden Boot winner Harry leading scorer against Russia in a place in midfield, where he now not many players in Europe who will their wings, take pressure off, have tle went down, but is in discussions Kane and Liverpool’s Daniel Sturridge Marseille on June 11 -- a dilemma plays for United, is not certain for reach that success,” Hodgson said. fun and see where it takes us,” he said with the club’s owner Mike Ashley almost certain to make the cut. for Hodgson. Rooney. The 30-year-old’s experience “I have to select teams against yesterday. about making his stay long term. “My heart is telling me yes, it is a great opportunity, city and club,” Benitez told BBC Sport. “But my brain is saying to ana- New York City revival gathers pace as Timbers felled lyse what is going on.” Benitez said he has been impressed by the support he has received since taking over from AFP Portland’s Fanendo Adi had City are now level on 16 keeper Josh Saunders to spark Toronto FC forward Steve McClaren. equalized. The victory was easily points with conference lead- wild celebrations at the Tim- Sebastian Giovinco “I have been in football all this the biggest win of new manager ers the Montreal Impact after bers’ rainswept Providence Park reacts after time. You want to be sure people Vieira’s reign. 11 games, and only trail by goal stadium. failing to score love you and if you work hard that LOS ANGELES: New York City The former France interna- difference. But Portland’s hard-earned against Vancouver they recognise that you are try- FC defeated MLS Cup champi- tional midfielder had endured Montreal’s goal difference is parity was short-lived, and Whitecaps at BMO ing your best and I have this here,” ons the Portland Timbers 2-1 on a rocky start to his managerial plus two; City’s stands at plus one. City’s lead was restored 10 min- Field on Sunday. he said. Sunday as Patrick Vieira’s resur- career in New York after joining City took the lead on Sunday utes later when former Italy and The Whitecaps beat “I knew that every day when gent side marched towards the from the backroom staff of par- through World Cup winner Vil- Juventus star Andrea Pirlo found the FC 4-3. I walk in the streets. Everyone is top of the Eastern Conference ent club Manchester City. la’s opener in the 12th minute, McNamara in space on the edge so positive and the atmosphere standings. But after a run of only one latching on to defender R.J. Allen of the penalty area. today doesn’t surprise me too Goals from former Spain win in eight games, City have superb through ball to calmly The 25-year-old midfielder much. They were supporting for international David Villa and now recorded three straight vic- tuck away his finish. looked up and took his time 90 minutes, I knew it would be like American midfielder Tommy tories, catapulting them to within Adi however drew Portland before curling a wonderful shot this and that is why I am so open McNamara secured a third con- whisker of first place in the East- level on 55 minutes with a cool up and over the diving Portland to keep on talking.” secutive victory for City after ern Conference. finish, lifting his shot over City goalkeeper Jake Gleeson to score. 32 TUESDAY 17 MAY 2016 SPORT

Conte acquitted Cacic names 27-man Croatia squad of sporting fraud charges: Media

his predecessors -- notably Miroslav for France. “We had an exhausting ‘Ciro’ Blazevic with whom Croatia and difficult season. Some players AFP Provisional squad for finished third at 1998 World Cup in are still playing in their clubs so it is Euro 2016 includes France. better that our opponents are easier. The squad is due to gather in “We will have tough rivals at the ROME: Italy coach Antonio Conte Barcelona midfielder Zagreb on Friday before departing for Euro,” he concluded. has been cleared of accusations of Rakitic and Real a training camp in northern Croatia Croatia have been drawn in sporting fraud following a hear- Madrid’s Modric but and later in the northern Adriatic Group D and will begin their cam- ing in Cremona yesterday at which town of Rovinj. paign against Turkey in Paris on June prosecutors had requested a six- minus Liverpool Five players will join the squad 12 before facing the Czech Republic month prison sentence, Italian defender Lovren later due to club commitments. in Saint-Etienne five days later and media reports said. Modric and Mateo Kovacic will be then taking on Spain in Bordeaux on Conte is now free to lead Italy with Real Madrid until their Cham- June 21. at Euro 2016 before becoming pions League final against Atletico Croatia squad Chelsea coach following the tour- AFP Madrid on May 28, while Rakitic, Goalkeepers: Danijel Subasic nament’s conclusion on July 10, Juventus forward Mario Mandzukic (Monaco/FRA), Lovre Kalinic (Hajduk according to reports on the web- and defender Darijo Srna of Ukraine’s Split), Ivan Vargic (Rijeka), Dominik site of sports daily Gazzetta dello Shakhtar Donetsk will be involved in Livakovic (Zagreb) Sport. ZAGREB: Croatia coach Ante Cacic national cup finals with their clubs Defenders: Darijo Srna (Sha- Conte, who has already served yesterday named a provisional this weekend. khtar Donetsk/UKR), Vedran a four-month ban in relation to the 27-man squad for Euro 2016, featur- Cacic said his list included the Corluka (Lokomotiv Moscow/RUS), affair, had been accused of not ing the likes of Barcelona midfielder “players who are in good health and Domagoj Vida (Dynamo Kiev/UKR), reporting an episode of match- Ivan Rakitic and Real Madrid’s Luka have played in European leagues the Ivan Strinic (Napoli/ITA), Gordon fixing relating to a Serie B match Modric but minus Liverpool defender whole year, that’s why they have an Schildenfeld (Dinamo Zagreb), Sime with AlbinoLeffe from May 2011 Dejan Lovren. advantage.” Vrsaljko (Sassuolo/ITA), Tin Jedvaj when he was coach of Siena. Lovren was told he would not be But it also includes some young (Bayer Leverkusen/GER), Duje Caleta- Although former players and picked last month after demanding players who have been rewarded for Car (Salzburg/AUT) other figures were implicated, that he be guaranteed a starting place good performances with their clubs Midfielders: Luka Modric (Real Conte was the most notable. before accepting to go to the finals and at under-21 level, he added. Madrid/ESP), Ivan Rakitic (Barce- The 46-year-old former Juven- in France. Zagreb goalkeeper Dominik lona/ESP), Ivan Perisic (Inter Milan/ tus coach has always denied any But Cacic stressed yesterday that Livakovic, 21, and Duje Caleta-Car, ITA), Mateo Kovacic (Real Madrid/ wrongdoing in an affair in which the “doors are not closed to Lovren.” a 19-year-old defender playing in ESP), Milan Badelj (Fiorentina/ITA), players allegedly colluded with “He has to understand how to Austria with Red Bull Salzburg, were Marcelo Brozovic (Inter Milan/ITA), underworld figures to fix matches behave towards both co-players handed call-ups for the first time. Alen Halilovic (Sporting Gijon/ESP), and recoup the rewards of an ille- and coach. Then he could deserve Cacic must reduce his squad to Domagoj Antolic (Dinamo Zagreb), gal betting network. to return,” he told reporters. 23 by the end of May. Marko Rog (Dinamo Zagreb), Ante A lawyer for Conte, Francesco The 62-year-old was appointed Croatia will play two friendlies Coric (Dinamo Zagreb) Arata, said last month: “He’s a total coach last September after Niko before leaving for France -- on May Forwards: Mario Mandzu- stranger to the betting world and Kovac was sacked. 27 against Moldova and against San kic (Juventus/ITA), Nikola Kalinic that’s why he will be cleared by Cacic’s appointment raised crit- Marino on June 4. (Fiorentina/ITA), Andrej Kramaric the judge.” Croatian national team coach Ante Cacic announces his squad in Zagreb, icism from fans concerned about Cacic explained that playing (Hoffenheim/GER), Marko Pjaca Prosecutor Roberto di Martino, his lack of major success as a coach against such weak opposition would (Dinamo Zagreb), Duje Cop (Malaga/ Croatia, yesterday, for the upcoming Euro 2016 football championship who had requested a six-month and his lack of charisma compared to allow his players to gather strength ESP). in France. sentence for Conte and a fine of 8,000 euros ($9,063), had also sought a four-month prison term for Conte’s former assistant at Siena, Angelo Alessio. He was also cleared. Wenger frustrated despite runners-up berth Alessio, Conte’s assistant dur- ing three title-winning seasons at Juventus and now with him at Italy, risked a four-month sentence but AFP Arsenal “That was not only us, it was “We did not start the season was also acquitted. manager Tottenham as well who were in a saying we want to finish above Tot- The affair, however, has yet to Arsene Wenger better position than us for a long, tenham. But we wanted to win the reach its conclusion and could see long period, and Manchester City league and I agree with you there is former players Beppe Signori, one LONDON: Arsene Wenger admit- as well. a frustration because we didn’t win of the top players in Serie A in his ted Arsenal endured a disappointing “I think we kept going when we the league. prime during a five-year spell with campaign despite securing the run- had a period that was very difficult for “Today, we could only play with Lazio, among others, feel the full ners-up spot, behind champions us, we kept togetherness and we have the target we had. And the only one force of the law. Leicester, for the first time since 2005. now not lost for nine games and that we had before the game was to fin- The report said “up to 90” peo- Arsenal’s 4-0 victory over Aston mental strength in the dressing room ish second. ple are involved although Signori, Villa combined with Tottenham’s dis- got us through that period.” “We achieved it. For a while our Cristiano Doni, Gigi Sartor and astrous 5-1 defeat at Newcastle on Wenger had been the target of supporters have not been going home Mauro Bressan -- all former Serie Sunday ensured Wenger’s side fin- protests from supporters demand- happy from here -- at least today they A players -- as well as current ished above their local rivals, who had ing change at Arsenal’s last home had some satisfaction.” Lazio captain Stefano Mauri, are seemed certain to take second place game and admitted the reception he Olivier Giroud’s hat-trick and an all in the dock facing accusations for several weeks. received was warmer than the one own-goal from Villa goalkeeper Mark of transnational sporting fraud. The Gunners have now finished two weeks previously. Bunn completed the win as Arsenal Of those accused, Mauri is the above Tottenham every year since “It is a positive feeling,” he said. said farewell to Tomas Rosicky, Mikel only active player although he has 1995 and the significance of unex- “I am not masochist enough to love Arteta and Mathieu Flamini, who will already been sanctioned for his pectedly maintaining bragging rights disappointment at not challenging be first and for a while we believed to be booed. leave in the close-season. role in the affair. over their hated neighbours was evi- Leicester more closely. we could do it. “I am in a public job and I accept Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere Mauri served a six-month ban dent from the gleeful reaction of the “We are not happy by being sec- “I knew our position at the end criticism. I think I have proved in 20 made his first start since the final for failing to report match-fix- home supporters. ond but 18 other teams behind us would depend on us getting through years that I accept being criticised. day of last season and came through ing, meaning he missed most of But while Arsenal’s season would be happy to be in our posi- some difficult away games without “My target is to keep everyone a 70-minute performance in front the start of the 2014-2015 season, ended on a high, Wenger admit- tion,” Wenger said. damage, and on Leicester as well happy but unfortunately I don’t man- of the watching England coach Roy returning to the fray on February ted it was impossible to disguise the “But of course our target was to dropping some points. age to do it always. Hodgson. 2014. Leicester change landscape as TV cash flood looms

AFP A Leicester fan with a Claudio Payet, another Team of the Year inclusion, was yielded the League Cup and a first Champi- Ranieri mask before the a relative snip at £10.7m. ons League semi-final appearance. Premier League title winners The French playmaker inspired Slaven Liverpool have already been revitalised by Parade on Sunday. Bilic’s side to seventh place, with Ronald a new manager and despite an eighth-place LONDON: The Premier League season’s defin- Koeman’s Southampton, fellow canny spend- finish, the club’s engrossing run to the Europa ing quirk was that with a vast tide of television ers, provisionally fifth ahead of Manchester League final has hinted at the thrills that may money set to flood England’s top flight, Leices- United’s postponed final game against Bourne- lie ahead under Jurgen Klopp. ter City’s triumph showed that wealth isn’t mouth, which fell victim to a bomb scare. At Arsenal, Arsene Wenger soldiers everything. The big clubs met with failure of varying on towards the 20th anniversary of his While Manchester City and Manchester stripes. appointment. United’s squads cost a combined estimated Despite having invested some £250m in He has, customarily, delivered another total of £800m, Leicester’s title-winning squad new players, Louis van Gaal oversaw a season season of Champions League football -- the barely exceeded the 50m mark. of grim stagnation at United, who are effec- 19th in succession -- but with Arsenal hav- In the context of the 5.14bn pounds tele- tively guaranteed to miss out on a Champions ing spectacularly failed to exploit their rivals’ vision deal due to kick in next season, their League place for the second time in three struggles, fan dissent towards the Frenchman fairytale 5,000-1 success suggested that it is years. has been louder than ever. no longer about how much money you spend, Frustrated at United’s feeble, side- Emboldened by their TV gains, the but how you spend it. ways football -- the antithesis of Leicester’s heavyweights can be expected to flex their “I’ve grown up always believing the big approach -- fans have grown increasingly muscles in the close-season transfer win- clubs, with the most money, win,” said Jamie vocal in their criticisms of the defiant Dutch- dow and former Leicester manager Martin Redknapp, the Liverpool midfielder turned man, for whom victory over Crystal Palace O’Neill believes that they will all come back TV pundit. in next weekend’s FA Cup final may not be stronger. “Even Blackburn, when they won the title enough to keep him in a job. “Maybe it’s a wake-up call,” he said. “I (in 1995), spent a lot of money and had the best Jose Mourinho has been hovering in antici- think the big teams might feel it was one year players. This is like no other.” pation of the Old Trafford axe falling ever since they slipped up in and they might become very While the feats of Jamie Vardy (1 million his dismissal by Chelsea in December. strong again. Money talks in this business.” pounds), Riyad Mahrez (400,000 pounds) Worn down by Mourinho, the defending The division will lose two of its grandest and N’Golo Kante (5.6 million pounds) dem- completion rate of 70.5 percent -- the league’s Team of the Year told its own story, with champions collapsed completely, but Guus clubs as Newcastle United and Aston Villa sink onstrated a new way of spending, Leicester’s second-lowest. Leicester and Tottenham contributing four Hiddink steadied the ship and with Italy coach into the Championship alongside Norwich City, football revealed a different way of winning. With Tottenham Hotspur, another high- players each. Antonio Conte arriving after Euro 2016, a new to be replaced by Burnley, Middlesbrough and In an age when many teams continue intensity team, challenging for the title under Excepting Harry Kane, the division’s future is taking shape. the play-off winners. to worship at the altar of ‘tiki-taka’, Clau- the inspirational Mauricio Pochettino, Football 25-goal top scorer, who came through Tot- There is immense anticipation, mean- The TV deal means that Burnley and Boro dio Ranieri’s well-drilled, hard-running side Association chairman Greg Dyke was moved tenham’s youth system, all were signed for while, at City, where Pep Guardiola will could not have timed promotion better, but as averaged 44.8 percent of possession -- the to exclaim: “The old order has broken.” fees dwarfed by the £49m that City spent on replace Manuel Pellegrini following a season Leicester’s game-changing success demon- third-lowest in the league -- and had a pass The Professional Footballers’ Association Raheem Sterling. West Ham United’s Dimitri of damaging inconsistency that nonetheless strates, it is what you do with it that counts. SPORT TUESDAY 17 MAY 2016 33 Celtic’s future is bright, says Deila

AFP

GLASGOW: Departing Celtic manager Ronny Deila says the club’s young- sters can play a big part for the Glasgow giants next season after several of them starred in a 7-0 thrashing of Motherwell on the final day of the season. Scotland’s young player of the year Kieran Tierney started the scoring with his first goal for the Hoops before Australian international Tom Rogic and Mikael Lustig made it 3-0 at the break. The onslaught continued in the second half with goals from Stuart Arm- strong, Patrick Roberts and Ryan Christie before Jack Aitchison capped a memorable day as he fired home with his first touch of the match seconds after coming on as a substitute. In doing so, he become the youngest ever player to play for the club at 16 years and 71 days. With four teenagers on the score-sheet the club’s out-going boss thinks the future looks bright for the Scottish champions, who were presented with the Premiership trophy following the match. Leicester City manager Claudio Ranieri, Danny Simpson, Kasper Schmeichel, Riyad Mahrez, Andy King, Christian Fuchs, Danny Drinkwater, Leonardo “It was a good performance from a young team who I think are the future Ulloa, Robert Huth and Jamie Vardy with the trophy on the bus during the Premier League title winners parade in Leicester City yesterday. of this club,” Deila said. “There is so much talent here and it is great to let these guys have the opportunity. “The academy is a very important part of this club -- they have done a very good job. It is so good to get the young- Arteta set to hang boots sters on the pitch and for them to perform so well. “They can be great in the future but they need experience around them as well. You can see when they play freely how good after Arsenal farewell they can be. “You saw today that if you play without pres- say goodbye and 99 per cent to say Arsenal’s Mikel Arteta sure what the outcome goodbye to the sport that I love is during the lap of can be. To have the very hard, but my taste of it can’t get honour at the end of the “What is important opportunity to say better than today. Premier League match is that the fans give the Celtic Manager goodbye and 99 per “A big thank you to everybody.” against Aston Villa at young players a lot of Ronny Deila Arteta, who joined Arsenal in Emirates Stadium on support to get the best cent to say goodbye 2011 following a successful spell Sunday. out of them. to the sport that I with Everton, won two FA Cups and “They have to man- two Community Shields with Arsene age to play under that love is very hard, but Wenger’s side and insists he knew it pressure as well. That is my taste of it can’t was time to call time on his playing the next stage for a lot of days with the Gunners. them.” get better, “It is very hard to stop but I Deila, who led the says Spaniard wanted to leave it... I wanted to club to three trophies decide and I thought for the last few in two years at Celtic months I wasn’t good enough to rep- Park, made the deci- resent this club on the pitch,” he said. sion to leave the club AFP Arteta confirmed he has three after coming in for criti- “very different” options on the table, cism following semi-final with reports linking him with roles defeats to Old Firm rivals at Manchester City and Tottenham Rangers and Ross County as well as some disappointing displays in Europe. LONDON: Spanish midfielder Mikel Hotspur, and he said there was a And despite ending the season with such an emphatic result that sees Celtic Arteta, whose contract with Arsenal chance he could stay at Arsenal in top the table by 15 points from Aberdeen in second, the Norwegian believes is due to expire, has announced his a backroom capacity. he has made the right decision to leave. intention to retire from playing and “It is very unusual to have oppor- “It felt right after I had done it but obviously after days like this it is move into coaching. tunities at this level. As well, that tough,” Deila said. The 34-year-old said he was “99 made me think it was probably time “At the same time it was a happy ending. There has been ups and downs. percent” certain to hang up his boots (to retire) and the way I have been You have to be honest and say things have been very good and things have after turning out for Arsenal for the watching football in the last few been very bad. last time in their 4-0 win over Aston months -- or probably over a year “I think what you saw today is something that can be built on. With new Villa on the final day of the Premier -- it was not as a player, it was more fresh energy coming in I think they will go for more trophies and hopefully League season on Sunday. as a coach. Then you have to think better results in Europe. Arteta burst into tears when the about it,” said Arteta, who started at “People understand that things have been up and down but you can full-time whistle was blown before Barcelona before moving to Rangers only do your best and also be humble enough to know enough is enough. explaining why. and then Real Sociedad. “I don’t know if I did it perfect or not but I did it my way and it will be a “It was unbelievable because the “I have been left the door very good memory. last few months have been really open (at Arsenal) and I may have to “I was just myself and did what I believed in. I think everyone could see difficult and I have been through a make a decision. I don’t want to say I have given everything and want to play offensive style football and want difficult position as well with my role clubs but I have three very different to control games and give some youngsters a chance as well. in the team,” the Spaniard said. options and I am very proud because “If you can do those things and win some trophies as well then you have “To have the opportunity to it is not common.” done something right.” Ronaldo’s eyes chance for Portugal glory at Euro 2016

AFP United to Real Madrid -- that would night sky claiming there was “no only come about a year later -- Ron- justice”. As well the grand collective aldo found the net just once as after prize, there are also individual acco- an impressive group stage, Portu- lades on offer that will entice a record LISBON: For a player that has won gal bowed out to Germany in the hoarder like Ronaldo. almost everything on an individual quarter-finals. He can become the first man to and collective level, the one honour Euro 2012 will arguably haunt the score in four European Champion- that agonisingly evades Cristiano Madeira-born superstar the most. ships and is just three goals from Ronaldo is an international trophy Ronaldo came into the tourna- Michel Platini’s record of nine in the with Portugal. ment on the back of a record-breaking finals. Euro 2016 will be Ronaldo’s 60-goal season with Madrid as they Both targets look eminently fourth and at 31 possibly last Euro- ended the dominance of Pep Guar- achievable in a group containing tour- pean Championship finals. diola’s Barcelona side in Spain to win nament debutants Iceland, Hungary The previous three have all La Liga. -- in their first major tournament promised much only to end in var- His double against the Neth- since 1986 -- and Austria. ying degrees of disappointment for erlands led Portugal out of the The chance to deliver a telling the three-time World Player of the cliched group of death also includ- blow in his eternal battle with Lionel Year. There have also been tears and ing Germany. Messi for another Ballon d’Or is also torment. Ronaldo struck the winner against at stake. Cristiano Ronaldo dos Santos the Czech Republic in the quarter- Yet, even for the preening peacock Aveiro has long been destined for finals, but watched on in anguish as Ronaldo, after the millions earned, greatness. In the year of his 16th birth- Portugal again fell short by the finest league titles and Champions Leagues day, he played for Sporting Lisbon’s of margins against a Spain side replete won in Manchester and Madrid, the under-16, under-17, under-18, reserve with Barca players exacted revenge on real goal must finally be delivering and first teams. penalties in the semi-finals. for his country. Real Madrid’s Portuguese forward Cristiano Ronaldo touches his ankle during the Spanish League match Two years later, he had been Never one to shy away from the “There will be many other oppor- snapped up by Manchester United, against RC Deportivo de la Coruna at the Municipal de Riazor Stadium in La Coruna on Saturday. big moment, Ronaldo’s desire for glory tunities to win in Europe throughout whose boss Alex Ferguson had been got the better of him as he opted to my career, and make up for this huge impressed by the teenager in a United- presence on the international stage, Greece. Four years later, Ronaldo League a month before arriving in take Portugal’s fifth penalty. The disappointment,” he said as a 19-year- Sporting friendly. The No. 7 shirt scoring twice as Portugal reached the looked set to make amends. He was Austria and Switzerland. problem was the shootout never got old after defeat to Greece in 2004. became synonymous with Ronaldo. final on home soil before suffering a at the prime of his career having led Yet, distracted by protracted that far as Spain won 5-3 leaving Ron- If he is ever to win the Euros, Paris In 2004, Ronaldo announced his devastating defeat to shock winners Manchester United to the Champions rumours about his switch from aldo to look ruefully at the Donetsk on July 10th is likely to be the last call. 34 TUESDAY 17 MAY 2016 SPORT

Badminton: China dominates Formula One hails a new group play at Thomas, Uber Cup young master in Verstappen AFP

SHANGHAI: The Chinese men and women’s teams defeated their Formula One family opponents handily in command- ing 5-0 wins during the opening thrilled to see Max round of group play at the Thomas Verstappen excel and Uber Cups on Sunday, as they kicked off the world badminton under pressure at the team championships on home soil. Spanish Grand Prix in In early Thomas Cup action, top-ranked shuttler Chen Long led Barcelona on Sunday the Chinese men’s squad in a rout over Mexico with a dominating 21-12, 21-7 performance against Lino Munoz, while world number Reuters six Tian Houwei finished off Job Castillo 21-7, 21-12. In doubles action, Hong Wei BARCELONA: Max Verstappen’s sen- and Zheng Siwei swept Lopez sational first Formula One victory, Andres and Luis Ramon Garrido at just 18 years of age, had former 21-12, 21-15, and Li Junhui amd Liu champions and grandees of the sport Yuchen starched Munoz and Cas- casting around for superlatives at the tillo, 21-3, 21-9, in 32 minutes flat. Spanish Grand Prix on Sunday. “The Chinese are so fast. We Already seen as the next big star, learnt a lot,” said Castillo, accord- the Dutch teenager made the hype ing to the Badminton World seem almost under-stated with a Federation. In Uber Cup compe- composure that belied his years tition, runaway favourites China as he became F1’s youngest ever swept Malaysia, thanks to stellar winner. performances from world number “It’s been an unbelievable per- three Li Xuerui and number four formance, from the moment Max Dutch Formula One driver Max Verstappen Wang Yihan, who dispatched their stepped into the car until the cheq- (centre) of Red Bull Racing celebrates with challengers in straight sets. uered flag, he’s been exemplary. He’s his team members after winning the Spanish Tang Yuanting and Yu Yang not put a wheel wrong,” said his Red Grand Prix at the Barcelona-Catalunya Circuit salvaged a win after dropping the Bull principal Christian Horner. in Montmelo, Barcelona, Spain, on Sunday. second set against Malaysia’s Viv- Horner hailed a Formula One ian Hoo Kah Mun and Woon Khe fairytale, with Verstappen promoted Wei. They prevailed in the end, from the junior Toro Rosso team lit- never think he was 18. He’s the first age, recalled competing against the Verstappen looked “so mature, so drove with amazing maturity. He’s 21-18, 14-21, 21-11. And China’s Sun tle more than a week earlier in place driver I’ve had that legally I could youngster’s father Jos in the early calm and so strong. really stepped up.” Yu rounded out the day’s drubbing of Russian Daniil Kvyat. be his father.” 2000s. Asked where he was when “At the end of the day, he did a Asked whether Verstappen with a 21-9, 21-10 win over Malay- He also saw signs of a rare but Vettel, winner of four titles in a Raikkonen won his first race, Ver- perfect weekend with absolutely no reminded him of seven-times cham- sia’s Sonia Cheah Su Ya. familiar talent. row with Red Bull before joining Fer- stappen said he had been six -- and mistakes. And that is really impres- pion Michael Schumacher, Jos’s old China’s men won the two- “It’s quite uncanny really,” said rari, won his first race at 21 with Toro probably in kindergarten. sive,” added the Frenchman. team mate and Villeneuve’s title rival, yearly Thomas Cup five times in a Horner. “There’s an awful lot of sim- Rosso before moving to Red Bull. Retired four-times world cham- Canada’s 1997 world champion the Canadian shrugged. row until their shock loss to Japan ilarities from when Sebastian (Vettel) Ferrari’s race runner-up Kimi pion Alain Prost, who did not start Jacques Villeneuve said Verstappen “You always want to say OK, that’s in 2014, while their women have joined the team. Raikkonen, twice Verstappen’s racing cars until he was 19, said had made the most of the opportu- the new (Ayrton) Senna. That’s the collected eight of the last nine titles “The mechanics were telling me nity presented by dominant Mercedes new Michael. He’s Verstappen. in the concurrent Uber Cup. that even the way he gets in the car drivers Nico Rosberg and Lewis Ham- “He’s won a race, so let’s see how In earlier play, the Thai men’s is similar, the same side, the way he ilton crashing into each other. it goes to his head. Will it make him team faced steady competition pulls his knee up to get in the chassis. “That’s what champions do,” he slower or faster. The way he’s been from India but prevailed 3-2. On “But he’s his own man as well. added. “You have to seize the oppor- acting, it should make him only the women’s side, star shuttler He’s a very together young guy. You’d tunity when it’s there and then he better.” Ratchanok Intanon led the Thais to a 4-1 win over Hong Kong.

Jacques Villeneuve. Ricciardo, win- Boxing: Wilder Young gun ner of three races in 2014 when, like ANALYSIS OF Verstappen, he moved up from Toro promoter opens Verstappen Rosso to the main Red Bull team, had TOP TEAMS led after Mercedes pair Nico Rosberg door for fights BARCELONA: Team analysis and Lewis Hamilton collided on the rewrites the of the top sides after Sunday’s opening lap. with British Spanish Formula One Grand record books “The critical point now is what Prix, listed in championship rivals will happen with Ricciardo,” Ville- order: neuve, who took pole and almost won on his race debut with Williams in MERCEDES Reuters 1996 as a fresh young team mate to (Lewis Hamilton and AFP Britain’s Damon Hill, told reporters. Nico Rosberg retired) “Right now it’s the reverse situa- % Rosberg’s winning streak BARCELONA: Less than eight tion of when he arrived (at Red Bull) ended after seven successive NEW YORK: Unbeaten heavy- months after passing his driving test and (Sebastian) Vettel was the driver, victories, along with his hopes of weight champion Deontay Wilder on his 18th birthday, Max Verstappen except Vettel had four world champi- becoming only the third driver could be in line to face rival unde- raced into the record books as For- onships and he doesn’t. to win the first five races of a feated British ring kings Tyson mula One’s youngest winner. “His smile will not carry him season. The pair collided while Fury and Anthony Joshua after “It feels amazing,” the Dutch Dutch F1 driver Max Verstappen now,” added the Canadian. fighting for the lead on the open- a planned bout next Saturday in youngster said after finally com- is seen with Helmut Markko, Red Bull put Ricciardo, who had ing lap. Hamilton had started on Moscow was cancelled. ing down from the top of Sunday’s Consultant at Red Bull Racing, led for 31 laps, on a three-stop strat- pole. Mercedes failed to equal Lou DiBella, Wilder’s promoter, Spanish Grand Prix podium. “I can’t after the Spanish Grand Prix. egy at the Circuit de Catalunya while McLaren’s record of 11 wins in a said that any talk of reschedul- believe it. keeping Verstappen on what turned row. Rosberg’s overall lead was ing a new fight date for Wilder “I was targeting a podium but driver Jos, Verstappen has racing sufficient experience demonstrated out to be a winning two. trimmed to 39 points, with Raik- to meet Russian Alexander Pov- then to win straight away, it’s an in his blood and the confidence and by points acquired in other series. The Australian, famed for hav- konen now second. etkin, who tested positive for the amazing feeling,” said Verstappen, maturity of someone who has been That rule would have barred him ing the biggest smile in the sport, FERRARI (Kimi Raikkonen 2, banned substance meldonium, was who likened the last 10 laps with Fer- on and around wheels for as long as from competing in 2015 had it been said after the race he felt victory had Sebastian Vettel 3) “unfounded and premature.” rari’s 2007 champion Kimi Raikkonen he can remember. in force at the time. been snatched away from him. “It’s The World Boxing Coun- % in his mirrors to “driving on ice”. He has also had to prove more Verstappen ended that season not hard to see Max on the podium Ferrari’s first double podium cil orderd the fight not be staged He suffered some cramp, as well than once that he is the exception to with two fourth places and three but it’s hard for me not to be on the of the season and Raikko- next week after the doping pos- as rising excitement as he saw his the rule. awards from the governing Interna- podium, that’s the biggest disappoint- nen’s third top three finish in itive, DiBella saying Povetkin five races. The Finn made two name on the big screens, but made When Red Bull signed the then tional Automobile Federation (FIA) ment,” he said. breached the fight contract and stops and did 31 laps on a set of himself focus on the tyres and tak- 16-year-old for their Toro Rosso jun- -- for Rookie of the Year, Personal- “It didn’t make sense,” he added Wilder “will await further com- medium tyres. Vettel did three ing a car -- that he first drove only ior team in 2014, ahead of his debut ity of the Year and Action of the Year. of the decision to switch to a three- stops. Ferrari closed the gap to munications from the WBC and on Friday -- to the chequered flag. in 2015, the sport was so concerned There were those who felt Red stop strategy after Ferrari had done Mercedes to 48 points. will weigh all our options given “I’m still learning the car,” he said. that it introduced a minimum age Bull had been callous when they so with Vettel. “It’s frustrating, I think what has transpired.” “Before I got into the car, I didn’t even rule to keep out other such preco- dropped Russian Daniil Kvyat this we just threw the win away. RED BULL (Max Verstappen Those options could include have a hole for my drink tube. I still cious talents. month and promoted Verstappen in “Sure I’m bitter right now. Not 1, Daniel Ricciardo 4) WBC champion Wilder, 36-0 with had to make it.” In future, they decided, driv- his place alongside Australian Dan- with Max, not at all, just bitter at the % Verstappen became the 35 knockouts, working toward uni- The son of former Grand Prix ers would have to be at least 18 with iel Ricciardo. situation.” sport’s youngest winner at the fying the heavyweight crown by Verstappen, once again did his Red Bull principal Christian age of 18, after starting fourth, meeting either International Box- talking on the track with a measured Horner, who saw “uncanny” simi- on his Red Bull debut. The Dutch ing Federation champion Joshua, drive as the strategy played into his larities between Verstappen and a driver did two stops, including a 16-0 with 16 knockouts, or World hands and the dominant Mercedes young Vettel, said the Dutch young- 32 lap stint on the mediums. Ric- Boxing Association and World drivers cleared the way by crashing ster would only grow in confidence ciardo started third and led the Boxing Organization champion into each other on the opening lap. but also offered words of support to race but his three-stop strategy Fury, 25-0 with 18 knockouts. Red Bull principal Christian Ricciardo. proved a mistake. He then had “This is a huge disappoint- Horner, celebrating his team’s first “At that point in the race it was far a late puncture. Red Bull’s first ment and a setback to my goals win since 2014, said he had been most from obvious which was the quicker win since Belgium 2014. in boxing,” Wilder said. “It is still impressed by Verstappen’s calmness. route to go and we felt Vettel, as the WILLIAMS (Valtteri Bottas 5, my goal to collect all the belts and “No agitation in his voice, no biggest opponent, we would take Felipe Massa 8) become the undisputed heavy- panic, no tension. He was a young him on with Ricciardo,” he said of weight champion of the world.” man completely in control of what the strategy. % Massa started 18th, on a Fury will defend his titles he was doing.” “I said it before the weekend and three-stop strategy, while Bot- in a rematch against Ukraine’s Meanwhile, Verstappen’s stun- I really believe we’ve got the strong- tas was seventh on the grid and Wladimir Klitschko on July 9 in ning victory on his Red Bull debut est pairing of drivers in Formula One did two stops. Williams are now Manchester. Fury took a unani- Dutch F1 driver Max Verstappen (centre) is seen with Scuderia the only team to have got both Ferrari drivers Kimi Raikkonen (left) of Finland and Sebastian has given team mate Daniel Ric- now,” added Horner. mous decision over Klitschko, 64-4 ciardo a taste of his own medicine, “We’re in a position where things cars in the points at every race with 53 knockouts, last November Vettel of Germany after the Spanish Grand Prix. this Formula One season. according to 1997 world champion are on the up.” in Germany to claim the crowns. SPORT TUESDAY 17 MAY 2016 35

Yankees pull off a Lowry stars as Raptors down convincing win Miami Heat to make history against White Sox Agencies

their lead to 75-58. Miami rallied NEW YORK: Pinch hitter Chase Headley had a long to get within six points as the sec- tiebreaking double with two outs in the bottom of the Canadian franchise onds wound down in the third, but seventh inning as the New York Yankees blew three wins best-of-seven a two-pointer on the buzzer by one-run leads before pulling out a 7-5 victory over the DeRozan restored Toronto to an Chicago White Sox at Yankee Stadium. series 4-3 to set eight-point lead heading into the Headley’s ninth hit in his last 25 at-bats gave the up final showdown final quarter. Yankees their seventh win in 10 games on a day when with Cleveland With a first-ever place in the Carlos Beltran became the fourth switch hitter to reach Eastern Conference finals beck- 400 home runs. Cavaliers oning, the Raptors turned the Red Sox 10, Astros 9 screw and quickly extended their Ryan Hanigan had three hits and drove in four lead with both Lowry and DeRo- runs, Xander Bogaerts hit a three-run home run and zan outstanding. the Boston Red Sox won a high-scoring affair against AFP Two Biyombo free throws the Houston Astros 10-9 at Fenway Park. powered Toronto into a 106-86 Hanley Ramirez and Mookie Betts also drove in lead with just under five min- runs for Boston (24-14). Jackie Bradley Jr. extended his utes left, leaving no way back for career-high and major league-leading hitting streak to LOS ANGELES: Kyle Lowry Miami. 21 games with a single in the fifth. scored 35 points as the Toronto Game one of the Eastern Rangers 7, Blue Jays 6 Raptors clinched a play-off series Conference Finals takes place in Ian Desmond’s three-run homer sparked a four-run victory over the Miami Heat on Cleveland on Tuesday. seventh inning for the Texas Rangers in a 7-6 win over Sunday, sending the Canadian Toronto will start against the Toronto Blue Jays in a game marred by a benches- franchise to the Eastern Confer- Cleveland with the odds stacked clearing brawl in the eighth inning. ence finals for the first time in against them. Pirates 2, Cubs 1 their history. The Raptors have been Kang Jung-ho went 2-for-4 with an RBI double and a Lowry and team-mate through two marathon seven- solo home run as Pittsburgh held on to beat the Chicago DeMar DeRozan stole the show game series to reach the Cubs 2-1 and salvage the finale of a three-game series. as Toronto completed a 116-89 conference finals while Cleve- Royals 4, Braves 2 (13 innings) victory to win the best-of-seven land will head into the series well NBA: CONFERENCE Kendrys Morales blasted a two-run homer to series 4-3 and set up a conference rested after clinching back-to- FINALS SCHEDULE straightaway center with two out in the 13th inning as championship showdown with back 4-0 sweeps in the previous the Kansas City Royals outlasted the Atlanta Braves 4-2. LeBron James and the Cleveland rounds. EASTERN CONFERENCE A’s 7, Rays 6 Cavaliers. However, Toronto will face the CLEVELAND CAVALIERS VS Danny Valencia hit three home runs, the last one Lowry had nine assists and Cavs buoyed by the knowledge TORONTO RAPTORS coming with two outs in the ninth, to provide the tying seven rebounds while DeRozan they had a 2-1 winning record Game 1: May 17 at Cleveland and go-ahead runs as the Oakland A’s rallied to a 7-6 finished with 28 points and eight over Cleveland during the regu- Game 2: May 19 at Cleveland win over the Tampa Bay Rays. rebounds as Toronto pulled clear lar season. Game 3: May 21 at Toronto Twins 5, Indians 1 of Miami convincingly after a Lowry said he is looking for- Game 4: May 23 at Toronto Tyler Duffey pitched seven scoreless innings and close-fought first half. ward to pitting his wits against Game 5: May 25 at Cleveland Jorge Polanco hit his first major league home run as the Congolese center Bismack the in-form James and the likes Game 6: May 27 at Toronto Minnesota Twins beat the Cleveland Indians. Biyomobo also had a big game for of Kyrie Irving and Kevin Love. Game 7: May 29 at Cleveland In seven innings Duffey (1-2) threw 110 pitches and Toronto, scoring 17 points, snaf- “I’m looking forward to the gave up six hits, all singles. He struck out six and walked fling 16 rebounds and blocking to opportunity to playing against WESTERN CONFERENCE one. shots to delight the home crowd those guys,” Lowry said after Sun- GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS VS Marlins 5, Nationals 1 at Toronto’s Air Canada Centre. day’s win. Right-hander Jose Fernandez allowed just one run OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER Goran Dragic and Dwyane “LeBron is one of the best in seven innings and drove in two runs and batterymate Game 1: May 16 at Golden State Wade led the scoring for the Heat players in the league, Kyrie (Irv- J.T. Realmuto had three hits as Miami beat Washington, with 16 points apiece. ing) is always a tough matchup, Game 2: May 18 at Golden State garnering a split of the four-game series. Justise Winslow finished with Kevin Love is always a tough Game 3: May 22 at Oklahoma City Fernandez (5-2) improved to 5-0 in his career 14 points, Joe Johnson had 13 and matchup. But we’re going to go out Game 4: May 24 at Oklahoma City against the Nationals as he gave up just four hits with Luol Deng 12. there and play our game, try and Game 5: May 26 at Golden State 11 strikeouts on a season-high 117 pitches. The Raptors had led 25-24 do our job and see what happens.” Game 6: May 28 at Oklahoma City Brewers 3, Padres 2 after an even first quarter, with Lowry, meanwhile, was satis- Game 7: May 30 at Golden State Chris Carter snapped out of a week-long slump with DeRozan scoring 11 points. fied that he had been able to turn three hits and Zach Davies worked into the seventh as Toronto built a 53-47 lead at around a protracted slump in form Milwaukee knocked off San Diego. half-time but the real damage to lead the Raptors into the con- Carter was 0-for-22 coming into the game and Miami Heat forward Justise Winslow (rear) tries to defend against Toronto Raptors guard Kyle was done in a dominant run in ference finals. struck out in the first inning against Padres right-hander the third quarter. “I had great people support- Lowry during the fourth quarter of game seven in their second-round NBA Eastern Conference Cesar Vargas. But his one-out home run in the third put The Raptors poured on the ing me throughout my struggles,” basketball play-offs in Toronto, Canada on Sunday. The Raptors defeated the Heat 116-89 to Milwaukee on the board and his RBI double off Kevin points in a 12-2 burst, stretching Lowry said. win the series. Quackenbush (1-2) in the seventh sent Jonathan Lucroy home and broke a 2-2 tie. Reds 9, Phillies 4 Eugenio Suarez’s three-run home run capped a three-hit day to help Cincinnati salvage the final game Hayne quits NFL to of a three-game series against Philadelphia. Blues hang on to beat Dan Strailey (2-1) threw five innings of shutout ball for the win, giving up six hits and three walks while pursue Olympics striking out six. Tigers 6, Orioles 5 Sharks in Game 1 J.D Martinez and Miguel Cabrera hit back-to-back rugby dream home runs off Baltimore reliever Darren O’Day in the eighth inning as Detroit avoided a four-game sweep Agencies by the Orioles. Rockies 4, Mets 3 Agencies Pinch hitter Ryan Raburn slugged a two-run homer in the seventh inning that gave the Colorado Rockies a ST. LOUIS: Jori Lehtera 4-3 over the New York Mets. scored an unassisted goal SAN FRANCISCO: Jarryd Hayne is calling it a g’day and Angels 3, Mariners 0 midway through the sec- ending his NFL career in order to try to play rugby for Fiji Hector Santiago tossed eight scoreless innings as the ond period to break a 1-1 in the Rio Olympics this summer. Los Angeles Angels completed the three-game sweep tie and the St. Louis Blues “I am retiring from the NFL because the Fiji Rugby with a 3-0 win over the Seattle Mariners. hung on for a 2-1 win Sevens team reached out to me about the opportunity to Giants 2, Diamondbacks 1 on Sunday in Game 1 of join the team for the upcoming Olympics, and I simply Brandon Crawford singled home the winning run the Western Conference could not pass that chance up,” Hayne, a pro rugby player in the ninth inning on the third of three consecutive final against the San Jose in Australia before joining the San Francisco 49ers last singles and the San Francisco Giants completed a four- Sharks. year, said in a statement released by the 49ers. game road sweep of the Arizona Diamondbacks with Brian Elliott stopped 31 “The Olympics has been something I have admired a 2-1 win. of 32 shots, including all 16 since I was a little boy, and it is an opportunity I feel very Cardinals 5, Dodgers 2 shots in the second period, similar to me joining the NFL. The 49ers organization St. Louis broke a 1-1 tie with a three-run seventh when they out-shot the has been incredibly supportive throughout my journey and went on to beat Los Angeles and avoid a three- Blues 16-5. For the game, and I cannot thank them and the support staff enough. game sweep. the Sharks out-shot the Thank you to the fans from down under, as well as those With two on and two outs, pinch hitter Yadier Molina Blues 33-23. He also made around the world, who stood behind me and supported doubled off Joe Blanton -- the Dodgers’ third reliever several big saves in the me along this amazing journey.” of the inning -- to knock in two. final two minutes after San Hayne, a running back/kick returner, had 17 carries Jose pulled goalie Martin for 52 yards, six receptions for 27 yards and eight punt BASEBALL RESULTS Jones for an extra attacker. returns last season. Although he was born in Australia, Lehtera scored the San Jose Sharks goalie Martin Jones (left) blocks the shot off St. Louis Blues Hayne has a Fijian father and has represented Fiji, which NY Yankees 7 Chicago White Sox 5 only goal of the period at centre Jori Lehtera during the first period in game one of the Western Conference has the world’s best men’s rugby sevens program, in inter- Minnesota 5 Cleveland 1 9:15 when he intercepted Final of the 2016 Stanley Cup Play-offs at Scottrade Center on Monday. national competition before. It won the 2014-15 World Oakland 7 Tampa Bay 6 a pass from Brent Burns Series season title and is considered likely to repeat with Cincinnati 9 Philadelphia 4 in the neutral zone and one leg of competition remaining. Detroit 6 Baltimore 5 fired a shot past Jones on past Jones for his seventh a video review. It was the Elliott, his third goal of the He will compete in the team’s upcoming camp in Lon- only the second shot of the goal of the playoffs. third time in the playoffs playoffs. don, where 12 of 14 players will be chosen for the World Boston 10 Houston 9 period by the Blues. It was The goal came while the Blues had an apparent One of Elliott’s best Series and Olympics rosters. Miami 5 Washington 1 only his second goal in 15 Logan Couture was serv- goal disallowed, the first saves after that came on “I have no promises he is going to make the 12, but Milwaukee 3 San Diego 2 playoff games this season. ing a minor penalty for two coming on coach’s Joe Pavelski, his former we will see how he goes,” Coach Ben Ryan said in a press Kansas City 4 Atlanta 2 The Blues, playing in tripping Robby Fabbri. challenges in the opening teammate at the Univer- release. “He will then come into Fijian camp for the Olym- Pittsburgh 2 Chicago Cubs 1 the conference final for Patrick Berglund two rounds that the play sity of Wisconsin, in the pic period. It is a huge challenge for Jarryd, but if he gets the first time since 2001, had appeared to put the was offsides. second period. He also into the squad it is only going to be on form, because he Texas 7 Toronto 6 scored the game’s first Blues in front earlier in Just 34 seconds after made a sliding save of a is a blinding rugby player.” LA Angels 3 Seattle 0 goal at 15:04 of the open- the period, but the goal Backes’ goal, the Sharks shot by Patrick Marleau Hayne isn’t the only NFL player who hopes to head Colorado 4 NY Mets 3 ing period on a power-play. was waived off because tied the game on Tomas as the Blues killed off a to Brazil. Nate Ebner, a New England Patriots safety who San Francisco 2 Arizona 1 David Backes deflected a of goalie interference. The Hertl’s deflection of a shot San Jose power-play in the has played mostly on special teams, is hoping to make St Louis 5 LA Dodgers 2 shot by Kevin Shattenkirk call was confirmed after by Burns that got past third period. the U S rugby team. 36 TUESDAY 17 MAY 2016

Sri Lanka’s Prasad out of first England Test

AFP Lanka coach Graham Ford told BBC Sport after the tourists’ final warm- up match, against Leicestershire ended in a draw on Sunday. LONDON: Sri Lanka paceman “Prasad has had a few tests and Dhammika Prasad will miss the the specialist came to see him today,” chance to repeat his Headingley the South African added. heroics of two years ago after being “We’ll have to build him up and ruled out of the first Test against get him bowling a number of overs in Victorious gymnasts pose for a photograph with England starting on Thursday. the nets to have him prepared poten- Qatar Gymnastics Federation officials following Prasad played a key role in Sri tially for the second or third Test.” the presentation ceremony of National and Club Lanka’s first Test series win in Eng- Sri Lanka’s top-order have strug- Challenge Gymnastics Championships at the land when, in the second and final gled in England so far this tour but Khwala Gymnastics Indoor Hall on Saturday. match of the 2014 campaign, he took Dimuth Karunaratne made a hun- five for 50 in the second innings at dred and Lahiru Thirimanne hit 40 Headingley, the headquarters of at Grace Road. county champions Yorkshire in “As we have gone along players Leeds, northern England. have started to find their feet and His haul included all of England’s find a bit of form,” Ford said. top four, in a match Sri Lanka won by “Every day, there is someone Qatar Gymnastics Federation 100 runs after clinching victory with new who is starting to look like he just one ball to spare on the final day. feeling a bit more settled in English However, this trip saw the conditions. Hopefully with a bit more 32-year-old injure his shoulder work the boys will have some good during Sri Lanka’s first tour match belief about what they can do. It is against Essex last week. going to be about mental toughness event ‘a huge success’ “We’re hoping that we can get and handling pressure when the Test him bowling again pretty soon,” Sri starts on Thursday.”

QGF aiming to improve Australia briefed on Zika standards as Qatar prepares to host 2018 FIG Artistic virus ahead of Windies tour Gymnastics World Reuters on South America’s north coast. Championships Cricket Australia chief medical officer John Orchard said the play- ers had been briefed on how to avoid MELBOURNE: Australia captain being bitten by mosquitoes. The Peninsula Steven Smith and his team have been Zika is spread primarily by mos- warned about risks associated with quitoes but can also be transmitted DOHA: More than 70 schoolchildren the Zika virus ahead of their tour of sexually. featured in the one-day National and the West Indies next month. An outbreak of the disease Club Challenge Gymnastics Champi- Australia will play West Indies in Puerto Rico caused two Major onships, staged by Qatar Gymnastics and South Africa in a triangular one- League Baseball games to be relo- Federation (QGF) concluded success- Young gymnasts in action during the day international tournament in St cated from the Caribbean island to fully at Khwala Gymnastics Indoor National and Club Challenge Gymnastics Kitts and Nevis, Barbados and Guy- Miami later this month. Hall on Saturday. Championships on Saturday. ana from June 5. Preparations for the Rio Olym- According to Mrs Abeer Ali A handful of cases of Zika - a pics have been overshadowed by Abdullah Albuainain, the Assistant mosquito-borne virus known to a major Zika outbreak in Brazil, Secretary General, QGF, the event medals. Clearly it was a great sight to an ‘all in one’ concept with Doha RESULTS: cause the birth defect microceph- prompting some athletes to elect to proved to be a huge hit with school- see such positive impact all round,” ready to host the championships at aly - have been recorded in Guyana, skip the Games. children who regaled fans with Mrs Abeer said. renowned and state of the art Aspire Boys junior class: remarkable performances. “I take this opportunity to thank Zone. Competitors, officials and spec- 1: Mohammed Abdul Hadi “We got to see new faces who the organising committee that put tators can look forward to enjoying 2: Mohammed Ashraf could be groomed for future national out a great show for schoolchildren the convenience and comfort of 3: Yusuf Al Yafi or international events,” Mrs Abeer to enjoy and compete. It was very world-class facilities throughout the Kohli, De Villiers help said. pleasing to see the enthusiasm from competition arena, accommodation Girls Level III (10-9 years) The events - held in separate boys the kids and their families,” she said. and expert medical services for elite 1: Janeen Ahmed and girls classes along with team “We will continue to stage such athletes courtesy of Aspetar. 2: Juri Shehata competitions. events on a regular basis,” she said. Established in 2000 the Qatar 3: Noora Kareemi RCB annihilate KKR “We are continuously aiming to Two years ago, it was confirmed Gymnastics Federation has quickly improve the standards of play by that Doha will stage host the 48th edi- made steady progress towards its Girls Level III (13-11 years) giving the kids the chance to com- tion of FIG Artistic Gymnastics World development goals for the sport. 1: Zeena Halawah Agencies pete and learn from the experts. We Championship in 2018. Already a successful host of seven 2: Areen Tamu him for 17 in the third over and then saw a huge crowd turnout at our lat- Having impressed members of the editions of the FIG World Challenge 3: Shahd Sajayee clubbed Sunil Narine for two con- est event and we are happy that the FIG Executive Committee with a com- Cup, Qatar has now captured the very secutive fours in the fifth. sport is catching on with young kids,” prehensive bid offer, the prestigious highest level of the sport. After six overs, Bangalore were Girls Level IV (13-11 years) Mrs Abeer said. win will see Qatar welcome the FIG The 48th edition of the FIG Artis- KOLKATA: Virat Kohli and A B de cruising at 63 for no loss but then “There was a positive connec- Artistic Gymnastics World Champion- tic Gymnastics World Championship 1: Maeefa Debaraee Villiers once again delivered the Gayle was adjudged leg-before- tion between kids and their parents ships for the first time in the nation’s is expected to be staged within the 2: Qaleen Yaji goods with their bats as their Royal wicket off a Narine delivery. at the event. Parents were present to history. Aspire Zone in Doha from October 18 3: Anisa Phillips Challengers Bangalore romped Kohli got to yet another half- see their children compete and win The winning bid was based upon to 27, 2018. home with 9 wickets to spare against century, while his partner at the Kolkata Knight Riders in an Indian other end - de Villiers - started clob- Premier League (IPL) contest at the bering them too. Eden Gardens in Kolkata yesterday. Earlier twin fifties from Gambhir Kohli and de Villiers remained (51) and Manish Pandey (50) aided Malaysia’s Lee into Thomas Cup quarter-finals not out on 75 and 59 respectively by Russell’s late blitz of 19-ball 39 while Chris Gayle contributed with helped Kolkata get to a fighting total. a 31-ball 49. The Kohli-de Villiers Even though the hosts lost Robin partnership yielded 115 runs for the Uthappa (2) early, Gambhir manage AFP men in red and black. to pick the gaps along with Pandey. BADMINTON: THOMAS CUP With the win, Bangalore stay Gambhir who got run-out shortly alive in the competition with 6 wins after getting to his fifty. match of the tournament. European cham- from 12 games. Pandey was out for 50. Pathan KUNSHAN, CHINA: Lee Chong Wei came pion Viktor Axelsen rolled through Jacob Chasing Kolkata’s 183/5, they departed for 6 but Shakib Al Hasan through an unexpectedly tight first game Maliekal 21-14, 21-11, while world number got off to a flyer as Gayle - who had and Russell enthralled the strong against German unknown Kai Schaefer five Jan O Jorgensen thrashed Cameron been in slumber for much of this sea- Eden crowd with some powerhitting before Malaysia reached the Thomas Cup Coetzer 21-9, 21-9 as the Danes seek to grab son - smashed the ball to all parts to propel Kolkata to such a score. The quarter-finals with a 5-0 whitewash yes- their first Thomas Cup crown. of the ground. The burly Jamaican last three overs yielded 38 runs for terday. Later yesterday, the Chinese men contin- first took on Andre Russell hitting the home side. The 33-year-old, who will target his ued their dominance on home soil, trouncing maiden Olympic title in Rio in August, was France 5-0. matched nearly blow for blow in the open- But badminton star Lin struggled to find SCOREBOARD ing game before winning 21-19, 21-15 on day his rhythm during his first match of the tour- KOLKATA KNIGHT RIDERS Jordan 3-0-22-0 (1w). two in Kunshan, China. nament, losing the first game to France’s Lee’s teammates had an easier time with Lucas Corvee, before storming back to win R V Uthappa c&b I Abdulla 2 ROYAL CHALLENGERS BANGALORE Iskandar Zulkarnain Zainuddin beating Lars the match 20-22, 21-14, 21-8. G Gambhir (run out) 51 C H Gayle lbw Narine 49 Schaenzle 21-7, 21-16, while doubles team World number one Chen Long assisted his M K Pandey c de Villiers b Aravind 50 V Kohli (not out) 75 Goh V Shem and Tan Wee Kiong dispensed team’s sweep with a commanding 21-9, 21-12 Y K Pathan st Rahul b Chahal 6 A B de Villiers (not out) 59 with their opponents in just 26 minutes. win that pushed the squad into the quarters. A D Russell (not out) 39 Extras (LB-1, W-1, NB-1) 3 The Thomas Cup is seen as a vital tune- In the women’s Uber Cup, Thailand up for Lee, who is preparing for what looks routed Bulgaria 5-0, making a commanding S A Yadav c I Abdulla b Aravind 5 Total (for 1 wkt in 18.4 overs) 186 like his final realistic chance of Olympic statement before squaring off with Indonesia Shakib Al Hasan (not out) 8 Did not bat: S R Watson, K L Rahul, Sachin gold after losing the last two finals to Chi- in their final match in group play on Tuesday. Extras (LB-6, W-6) 12 Baby, S T R Binny, C J Jordan, S Aravind, Iqbal na’s Lin Dan. Thai starlet Ratchanok Intanon stum- Total (for 5 wets in 20 overs) 183 Abdulla, Y S Chahal. With wins over England and now Ger- bled early in her match against Bulgaria’s Fall of wickets: 1-14, 2-90, 3-113, 4-118, Fall of wicket: 1-71. many, 2014 Thomas Cup runners-up Malaysia Linda Zetchiri after dropping the first game. 5-125. Bowling: A D Russell 2.3-0-32-0; M Morkel are already into the quarter-finals ahead of But the world number two found her groove, 2-0-20-0; S P Narine 4-0-34-1; P P Chawla their toughest Group C tie against South rebounding with a 17-21, 21-14, 21-15 victory. Bowling: S T R Binny 1-0-8-0; S Aravind 4-0- 3.1-0-32-0; A S Rajpoot 3-0-28-0 (1nb); Shakib Korea. Both competitions feature 16 teams 41-2; Iqbal Abdulla 4-0-22-1 (1w); S R Watson Al Hasan 4-0-39-0 (1w). In earlier play, second seeds Denmark divided into four groups, with the top two Lee Chong Wei 4-0-46-0 (1w); Y S Chahal 4-0-38-1 (2w); C J demolished South Africa 5-0 in their first in each qualifying for the quarter-finals.