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SUNDAY 26 DECEMBER 2015 • 16 Rabia I 1437 • Volume 20 Number 6657 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com [email protected] | [email protected] Editorial: 4455 7741 | Advertising: 4455 7837 / 4455 7780 RAF drive for QU selects Sheikh Joaan as CSR person of the year DOHA: Qatar University the 4th Edition of the annual The ceremony will include the selected H E Sheikh Joaan bin national CSR report in the first official inauguration of the CSR Hamad Al Thani (pictured), quarter of next year. person of the year painting by president of the Qatar Olympic The awarding ceremony will be an international artist assigned Syria collects Committee (QOC), as the CSR attended by top officials includ- by Qatar University. During the person of the year 2015 in rec- ing the CSR person of last year ceremony, H E Sheikh Joaan will ognition of his significant role in H E Abdullah bin Hamad Al also be awarded a Crystal Shield supporting CSR and for being a Attiyah, ministers, ambassadors appreciating his efforts in CSR. role model in inspiring the youth and other recognised members On the occasion, Dr Has- QR21.5 million of Qatar. of the society who contributed to san Rashid Al Derham, Presi- The annual national CSR the report. dent of Qatar University, said: report, which is produced under Other attendees include repre- “H E Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad the supervision of Qatar Univer- sentatives of non-governmental Al Thani is a motivating leader Project benefits 2,377 families sity, observes the achievements organisations and academic insti- of CSR in Qatar. His contribu- of selective inspiring person- tutions, public and non-profit tion is significant, especially in DOHA: An initiative launched the family or families, if required. alities who represent distin- associations, senior officials rep- supporting the special needs and by the Sheikh Thani bin Abdul- Al Suwaidi said that so far guished leadership in the CSR resenting Qatar University, and education programmes.” lah Foundation for Humanitar- some 2,377 families had benefited concepts. the awarding ceremony of H E a large number of university stu- ian Services, popularly known as from the initiative. Qatar University will host Sheikh Joaan while launching dents. THE PENINSULA RAF, to support Syrian refugee Some 55 percent of total money families in Syria’s neighbouring collected through donations were countries, has evoked massive spent on paying the rent of the response from Qatari people who houses that are accommodating have donated generously with the beneficiary families. After the downpour total collection this year alone The deputy CEO said that the being QR21.5m. remaining 45 percent of the cash Armed Kurdish “The initiative is entitled collected through donations were “Taadud”, an Arabic word which used to pay medical bills, day-to- group claims means to patronise. And it was day expenditures and school fees launched by RAF two years ago of children in these beneficary Turkey airport to help Syrian families who fled families. The incentive is being to Jordan, Lebanon and Turkey in executed by the representatives large numbers due to the violence of RAF and in collaboration with explosion in their home country. international and local humani- This was disclosed by Ahmad tarian organisations operating in DIYARBAKIR: An armed Rashid Al Suwaidi, Deputy CEO the three countries, namely, Leba- Kurdish group yesterday claimed for International Projects at RAF. non, Jordan and Turkey. responsibility for an explosion He told Qatar News Agency If a beneficiary family has some near a plane at Istanbul’s second (QNA) that the initiative is to urgent need, RAF is able to pro- international airport which killed sponsor one or more Syrian vide succour in a timely fashion, a female cleaner and wounded families who are not staying in he said. The initiative is getting another. refugee camps in the above-said remarkable response from Qatari “We ... claim the attack carried countries. They are staying inde- families as they have donated out by mortar bombs at Istan- pendently. QR21.5m in a matter of just a bul’s Sabiha Gokcen airport,” on The sponsor of a family or sev- year. Most donor families are pay- Wednesday, the Freedom Falcons eral of the displaced families is ing for all the necessities of the of Kurdistan (TAK) said on its supposed to pay for the expendi- refugee families including medical website. ture of the beneficiary families for bills, house rents, school fees of Airport cleaner Zehra Yamac, six months to a year, including children and food expenses. 30, died of head wounds hours medical bill, if any, school fees of after the blast on the tarmac children or to cover other needs of THE PENINSULA at the airport on the Asian Vehicles stuck near a flooded traffic intersection in Doha yesterday. ABDUL BASIT side of Turkey’s largest city. See also page 4 The wounded victim was also a cleaner. The attack came as Turkey wages an all-out offensive against Qataris could occupy up to 90pc the Kurdistan Workers’ Party UN eyes January 25 Syria talks (PKK), which launched an armed insurgency against the Turkish public sector jobs: Minister state in 1984, initially fighting UNITED NATIONS: The opments on the ground should not ian government and opposition for Kurdish independence, then DOHA: The Ministry of Admin- other state authorities in achiev- United Nations said yesterday be allowed to derail it,” said the and a roughly two-year timeline pressing for greater autonomy istrative Development organised ing the required progress in the it aims to bring together Syria’s statement, which was issued a day to create a unity government and for the country’s largest ethnic yesterday a meeting between performance of administrative warring parties on January 25 in after Zahran Alloush, a top Syr- hold elections. The resolution minority. employees in supervisory roles work. Geneva to begin talks to try to ian rebel leader, was killed in an asked the United Nations to con- Turkish officials say TAK is a participating in a programme for Such cooperation will ulti- end nearly five years of civil war. air strike on the edge of Damas- vene the peace talks with a target front for PKK attacks on civilian skills development. mately enable Qatari citizens to UN Syria mediator Staffan de cus. The UN Security Council start date of early January. targets, but the PKK claims TAK Minister of Administrative occupy up to 90pc of the public Mistura plans to convene repre- unanimously approved a resolu- Syria is ready to take part in is a splinter group over which it Development H E Dr Issa Saad sector jobs over the next 10 years, sentatives of the Syrian govern- tion on December 18 endorsing an peace talks in Geneva and hopes has no control. Al Jafali Al Nuaimi said that such the Minister added. The Minister ment and “the broadest possible international road map for a Syria that the dialogue will help it form On its website, TAK lashed out meetings were important as they then discussed plans to rationalise spectrum of the Syrian opposition peace process, in a rare show of a national unity government, Syr- at what it described as a “war open the doors for discussions public spending in light of the new and others,” his spokesman said in unity among major powers. ian Foreign Minister Walid Al coalition” between Turkish Presi- between head of authorities and budget and ways to avoid going a statement. It gave UN blessing to a plan Muallem said on Thursday dur- dent Recep Tayyip Erdogan and ministers. above the limits set by the gov- “He counts on full cooperation negotiated previously by world ing a visit to Beijing. the Islamic State group against The Minister spoke about coop- ernment. of all the relevant Syrian parties powers in Vienna that calls for a the Kurds. eration between the Ministry and QNA in this process. Continuing devel- ceasefire, talks between the Syr- REUTERS It also said the airport attack was a response to the “fascist attacks that turn Kurdish cit- ies into ruins.” The armed group, Victory for Qatar which had been silent for some time, claimed the attack had US-backed alliance retakes inflicted “serious damage” to the airport and five planes. The Turkish military said yesterday key dam from Islamic State nearly 200 PKK rebels had been killed in the army offensive in the BEIRUT: A US-backed alliance Since the US-backed alliance southeast. The operation, which of Syrian Kurds and Arab rebel was formed last October, its fight- has targeted the towns of Cizre groups, supported by US coalition ers have opened several major and Silopi in the province of Sir- planes, captured a dam yesterday offensives against Islamic State nak as well as a neighbourhood in from Islamic State, cutting one of with the ultimate goal of captur- Diyarbakir, the largest city in the its main supply routes across the ing Raqqa. region, began in mid-December. Euphrates, an alliance spokes- Selo said the alliance troops In a statement posted on its man said. had cut one main IS supply line website, the army said 156 PKK Colonel Talal Selo said the sei- from the towns of Bab and Minbij rebels were killed in Sirnak and zure of the Tishrin dam helps in the northern Aleppo country- 40 in Diyarbakir. It is not possible isolate the militants’ strongholds side held by the militants on the to independently verify the toll. in northern Aleppo from their road to Raqqa city, he added. In Ankara, around 300 women territories east of the Euphrates The intensive aerial bombing by activists yesterday protested the river, where Raqqa city, their de a US-led coalition was instrumen- violence in the southeast of the facto capital, is located. tal in the rapid advances since the country, an AFP photographer at Selo said the rapid advance campaign started four days ago, the scene reported. Qatari rider Bassem Hassan Mohammed guides The Toymaker during the Doha Grand Prix at the Qatar overnight by thousands of troops he said. “The coalition jets partici- Women protesters in Ankara International Show Jumping Championship inside the Qatar Equestrian Federation (QEF) headquarters in from the Democratic Forces pated in the previous campaigns marched to the city’s main Kiz- Doha, yesterday. The Toymaker clocked a time of 56.26 seconds as Bassem clinched the trophy. The win was of Syria had brought the dam and this one and future ones, too.” ilay square, forming a “chain for worth QR 186,000. See also page 28 upstream from Raqqa under their peace.” control yesterday afternoon. REUTERS AFP SUNDAY 27 DECEMBER 2015 02 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com HOME

Dr Khalid bin Mubarak Al-Shafi, Assistant Professor of Mass Communication, Qatar University, and Editor-in-Chief, The Peninsula, addressing a seminar on cultural marketing at QU. Right: Salah Ghareeb, representative of the Ministry of Culture, Arts and Heritage and Head, Culture Section, Al Sharq delivering a speech in the presence of Dr Basyouni Ibrahim Hamada, Professor of Mass Communication; Dr Noureldin Miladi, Associate Professor of Mass Communication; Dr Jamal Zran, Associate Professor of Mass Communication; Dr Muhsin Bu Azizi, Associate Professor of Mass Media. Inset: Dr Abdullah Al Zain Al Hidri, Assistant Professor of Mass Communication at College of Arts and Science, QU. ABDUL BASIT ‘Cultural marketing day’ proposed Qatar University seminar stresses promotion of marketing of culture and encouragement to innovation and creativity By Mohamed Osman I am proposing today is changing demics, media and policymak- erly to the world and due to some Dr Jamal Zran, Associate Pro- keting of values and lifestyles, he of ideas into an effective force in ers because it is important for extremists it is being negatively fessor of Mass Communication, in added. DOHA: A ‘cultural marketing society and into tangible products. any society, said Dr Khalid bin stereotyped.” his presentation, focused on the People in today’s world heavily day’ was proposed at a seminar “Productions need promotion Mubarak Al Shafi, Editor-in- Muhsin Bu Azizi, Associ- relation between manufacturing depend on social media which is last Thursday at Qatar Univer- and marketing. As individuals Chief, The Peninsula, who chaired ated professor of Mass Media, and marketing which exploits not only being used for commu- sity (QU) to promote the mar- when we contribute to cultural the seminar. presented results of a tentative sociological and psychological nication but also for information keting of culture and encourage productions that means we are He said the initiative is unique survey he conducted in malls in factors for profits. A manufac- and can be used in counter flow innovation and creativity. promoting culture, and under the and first-of-its-kind and needs Qatar to find out marketing con- turer looks for consumers and of information, he said. He argued “We need the Ministry of era of open media, everyone can more concerted efforts. notations being used by Qatari culture looks for public because that cultural marketing depends Arts, Heritage and Culture to play a significant role in introduc- In his presentation, Dr Basy- traders. it depends on innovations which on the ability to influence through identify one day in a year to cel- ing cultural products,” he said. ouni Ibrahim Hamada, Professor The survey found that due to cannot be marketed. innovative woks under free inter- ebrate cultural marketing, pro- Mahmoud Galander, Associate of Mass Communication, said: “It the domination of international When people watch a series active environment. mote marketing, raise awareness Professor of Mass Communica- is difficult to draw a line between brands, Arabic language is playing of TV shows or games they are Salah Ghareeb, In-charge, and honour outstanding initia- tion and Head of the Department, cultural works and ideology and marginal and a complementary dealing with lifestyles rather Culture Section, Al Sharq, said tives,” said Dr Abdullah Al Zain emphasised that the role of uni- it is not fair to talk about cul- role to English. than simple consumable prod- he will, as a representative of the Al Hidri, Assistant Professor of versity is not only to teach and tural invasion at the time we are Local retailers think Arabic is ucts, he said. ministry, propose that a cultural Mass Communication, College of transfer knowledge but change importing products of others and not suitable to promote products Dr Noureldin Miladi, Associ- marketing day be announced. Arts and Science, QU. the knowledge into useful things we have no products to supply our and is being used sometimes in ate Professor of Mass Commu- In his presentation, he said the Speaking at the opening of the for society from where students markets. cases in a way that gives negative nication, stressed that there is use of terms like ‘karwa’; ‘barwa’; seminar on cultural marketing, Al come. “Today, there are no trans- meaning, and cannot be under- assault against Arabic language and ‘Al Meera’ are an effort to Hidri stressed the importance of “It is a unique seminar and I lations from Arabic language stood unless the reader knows as local consumers are passive promote Qatari culture in the focusing on cultural aspects and expect it will have positive out- because they are no valued prod- English language. recipients. local trade and industry. This their promotion and enhancing puts as it is encouraging students ucts which meet global needs,” he One of the best examples is the All cultural products such as is being done since Qatar was the dynamic role of media in rais- and researchers to do more in this added. “Islamic culture and civili- Gulf Mall which has been writ- cartoon films, TV shows and selected as the Capital of Arab ing issues related to society. regard,” he added. sation which is the most precious ten in English using Arabic script ready food products are not sim- Culture in 2010. He said self-respect is essential Cultural marketing needs more thing of our possession and even which gives in Arabic a negative ply products for consumption and to get respect from others. “What attention from researchers, aca- this we could not introduce prop- meaning, he said. entertainment but include mar- THE PENINSULA

Ooredoo Mobile Money MoI holds forum on Wasil online training for staff DOHA: The Human Resources Department includes Data Recharge of the Ministry of Interior organised a forum which discussed latest developments in an online training programme, Wasil, and its rules and regulations. and Passport Services Officers from all departments of the min- istry attended the forum at the Officers’ Club DOHA: Ooredoo has expanded to the service, which is becoming at the Civil Defence headquarters. the award-winning Ooredoo the most popular cashless pay- Training Officer Lieutenant Saoud Al Mobile Money service so that ment method in Qatar. The serv- Dulaimi said the forum is held every six customers can now purchase ice enables customers to transfer month to give opportunity to revise all means Data Recharges and Ooredoo money to over 200 counties, top related to training and overcome obstacles. Passports using the Mobile Wal- up Hala accounts (with 10 percent Wasil helps the ministry’s employees in dis- let feature via the Ooredoo Money extra recharge bonus), pay Oore- tance training by using computers, iPads and App or the USSD *140# menu. doo bills and send money locally mobiles. Customers who purchase Oore- to another mobile. The programme offers three courses in doo Data Recharge using the Plans are in place to make the English, administrative skills and compu- Mobile Money service will receive majority of Ooredoo’s comprehen- ter. Employees can join the courses from any 25 percent extra data as bonus. sive portfolio of services available place through a username and password. In The extra data will be added via Ooredoo Mobile Money, as the first phase of the project, the courses will automatically and customers can the company strives to bring the be available for 5,000 employees from various purchase top-ups ranging from latest smart payment services to departments. QR20 (250MB), QR60 (1GB), Qatar. Customers can register THE PENINSULA Ministry of Interior staff attend the forum. QR80 (3GB), QR100 (6GB) to for Mobile Money for free with QR200 (15GB) using Mobile a valid Qatar ID at any Ooredoo Money. Data will be valid for 30 shop, by dialling *140#, or down- days from activation. loading the free Ooredoo Money Ooredoo Mobile Money cus- App on their mobile and follow- tomers can also purchase Ooredoo ing simple on-screen registration Passport services using Mobile instructions. Money, saving time and provid- Once registered, customers can Woqod names ‘Mega Lube Promotion’ winners ing extra convenience for people cash in money for free in their on the go. mobile wallet using any of over DOHA: Qatar Fuel (Woqod) has the nation-wide promotion will The Ooredoo Passport offers 200 Ooredoo self-service machines announced the seven winners of take place on February 8 next roaming customers 1GB of data throughout Qatar. Deposits can the first ‘Mega Lube Promotion’ year. The Woqod marketing and 100 SMS/minutes for QR100 also be made through Ooredoo raffle draw, held at Woqod petrol manager said: “The promotion per week, with customers using shops or direct transfer from station. reflects Woqod’s commitment to the Passport in the GCC receiving any QNB account through QNB The draw was conducted communicate effectively with our 2GB data for the same price. Mobile Payment service. by representatives from Doha customers and raise awareness The upgrade to Ooredoo Mobile Baladiya along with Woqod about the high quality products Money is the latest enhancement THE PENINSULA marketing manager, with givea- and services available to them at ways, including six iPhones and our service stations. the grand prize of a Mitsubishi “It also gives us an opportunity Pajero. to reward them for their loyalty Holder of coupon No. 13806 every time they drive into one walked away with the grand of our 30 stations all over Qatar, Man held for stealing two cars prize, and holders of coupon and add more excitement to their numbers 47033, 08680,07496, overall experience.” DOHA: The Criminal Investigation Department of the Ministry of 08694, 08512 and 14181, each won The winners expressed grati- Interior on Friday arrested an Arab national in Al Khor for stealing two an iPhone 6. Officials at the first raffle draw of the promotion at a Woqod petrol station. tude to Woqod for the prizes, cars from Al Waab and Al Nuaim. The man confessed to the crime and The promotion from Novem- encouraged people to visit Woqod the car keys were found with him. In a post on its Twitter account, the ber 1 until January 31, 2016, aims service stations and win prizes in tions receive a coupon to partici- petrol stations for services, and ministry urged people not to leave their vehicles and other belongings to encourage car owners to take two raffle draws. pate in the raffle draws, and win be one of the winners in the next in a way easily accessible to criminals. advantage of world-class services Customers who complete an prizes. draw. THE PENINSULA and products available at Woqod oil-change service at Woqod sta- The second and final draw for THE PENINSULA SUNDAY 27 DECEMBER 2015 HOME www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 03

Kahramaa wins Best CSR HMC hosts international psychiatry forum Initiative Award Awareness of scientific explanations can help de-stigmatise mental illness: Expert DOHA: Qatar General Electric- ity and Water Corporation (Kah- DOHA: Awareness of scientific ramaa) has received the Best CSR explanations for mental health Initiative Award in the energy problems can help de-stigmatise sector for its ongoing National mental illness in the community, Programme for Conservation according to Hamad Medical and Energy Efficiency (Tarsheed). Corporation (HMC) Senior Con- The award was presented at the sultant Psychiatrist Dr Suhaila third conference of Corporate Ghuloum. Social Responsibility and Awards, “There is significant litera- organised by Dar Al Sharq, under ture that provides scientific the patronage of Sheikh Abdul- evidence to suggest there are lah bin Saud Al Thani, Governor, biological factors implicated in Qatar Central Bank, and Chair- illnesses, including depression, man, Sport and Social Contribu- schizophrenia and bipolar disor- tion Fund (Da’am Fund). der, and raising awareness may The award underlines Kah- go some way towards remov- ramaa’s commitment to sus- ing the stigma associated with tainability reporting, supporting these and other mental illnesses sustainability-related projects and in Qatar,” Dr Ghuloum told the CSR initiatives. It also reflects Qatar International Psychiatry the corporation’s commitment Conference recently. to implementation of economic, “Understanding that there human, social and environmental could be a scientific explanation sustainable development as envis- for someone’s illness and that it Participants pose for a group photo at the event. aged in Qatar National Vision is not something that is inexpli- 2030 and Qatar National Devel- cable or scary can help demystify tific rationalizations related to from Qatar and the region were “Mental health has become a included scientists, researchers, opment Strategy 2011-2016. the illness for people and gen- mental health topics, including welcomed to the conference by prominent healthcare topic in clinical psychiatrists and other Tarsheed was launched as a erate empathy for the person schizophrenia, depression and Prof. Peter Woodruff, Chairman, Qatar following the introduc- mental health professionals. campaign in 2012 to reduce per affected and their family,” she hallucinations; novel approaches Psychiatry Department, in an tion of the Supreme Council of Many topics were on com- capita water and electricity con- added. to their treatments; and the role opening address. Health’s Mental Health Strategy mon global mental health issues, sumption by 35 percent and 20 The conference, which focused genetics play in mental illnesses. “The conference highlights the in 2013, and dialogues such as the though several presentations percent, respectively, by 2017. on the science behind psychia- In its fourth year, the confer- science that underpins clinical conference are important in fur- focused on the Gulf. try and latest developments in ence has become an important practice and provides updates ther developing industry prac- Over 20 research abstracts 2013-15 Nissan the field, was hosted by HMC’s professional development oppor- on latest developments in the tices in the country by creating were on display throughout the Psychiatry Department, and tunity for mental healthcare rapidly developing fields of neu- a platform for experts to share conference, highlighting local models recalled included guest speakers from professionals, according to Dr roscience, genetics, behavioural knowledge and experiences,” and regional studies. the UK, the US, Australia, and Ghuloum. and clinical science and thera- added Prof. Woodruff. DOHA: The Ministry of Econ- Europe, who spoke on scien- Several hundred participants peutics,” he said. Experts at the conference THE PENINSULA omy and Commerce yesterday announced recall of Nissan Juke, Sunny, Sentra, Micra and Xterra models of 2013-2015 due to a potential problem with the engine key. The ministry said the recall was conducted in coopera- QRCS concludes fifth Springboard programme tion with Nissan’s agent Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana Company. The DOHA: Qatar Red Crescent Society courses said, “Despite the various back- ministry said it will cooperate (QRCS) has concluded the fifth version grounds of the participants, they responded with the agent in the follow-up of its Springboard programme, organised greatly to the course. From the first work- process with regard to service and in cooperation with the British Council in shop, they proved very interactive. Many of maintenance of cars having the Qatar and Springboard UK. them had inner issues and life challenges.” problem. The course aimed at achieving profes- “One participant illustrated the shift in sional, economic, and social empowerment her life following the course by drawing a Ministry holds of Qatari women. The four-week course picture of a water-filled jar and another at Millennium hotel was attended by 40 empty one. Her life is like those two jars; auditing seminar women from low-income families in Qatar. prior to the course, she had concerns and The participants were divided into two trouble, and after the course, all these con- DOHA: The Ministry of Econ- groups, each attending four workshops on cerns and trouble were relieved and venti- omy and Commerce organised successful planning for their lives, how lated,” she added. a seminar on the development to overcome bad feelings, and focus and Regarding the concept and importance of auditing profession in Qatar, enhancement of strengths. of the program, Hanadi Al Moallem, Head attended by officials and account- During the certificate awarding cer- of Empowerment at QRCS, said, “Profes- ants. emony, some trainees recounted how the sional empowerment is part of the develop- The seminar discussed topics, workshop helped them get rid of the nega- ment framework adopted by QRCS Social including Law No. 30 of 2004, tive perspective about themselves and their Development Division through meaningful challenges surrounding the audit- surroundings, think and live with positive projects designed to advance the Qatari ing profession in Qatar, the role energy, and find a fresh meaning for life. women and help them attain and invest of the Association of Account- “In the past, we forgot ourselves and in their potential. They are encouraged to ants in developing and support- lived for others only. After this course, we change themselves, believing that women ing the profession, and guidelines have learnt that we are capable of giving in are an integral part of society that has and conditions for the licences many fields to serve our society. By doing rights and responsibilities. One of these for chartered accountants. Par- so, we will feel more significant, create our projects is Springboard, conducted in coop- Officials at the event. ticipants praised the ministry for own new lives in which we make use of eration with the British Council.” providing opportunity to commu- every moment, and take more care of our QRCS has already held four Springboard consultants, Jenny Daisley and Liz Willis. recognized certificates from Springboard nicate and identify problems and children and families,” said a participant. courses over two years, serving 72 women Launched in Qatar in 2009 in cooperation UK and the British Council. challenges facing them. Rana Al Qatami, human development at a cost of QR150,000. It was developed with the Qatari Businesswomen Associa- QNA trainer and the instructor of Springboard by two world’s top personal development tion, the program awards internationally THE PENINSULA Memory Clinic sees rise in patient number By Fazeena Saleem

DOHA: The Memory Clinic at Rumailah Hospital of Hamad Medical Corporation received increased number of people seeking treatment in 2015 due to awareness, says a senior official. Awareness about the importance of receiving profes- sional advice and medical assistance for memory prob- lems, a common condition which could arise among the elderly, has increased the number of patients, said Dr Hanadi Al Hamad, Acting Chair, Elderly Geriatrics, HMC. “Earlier, we had one or two patients, now we have a long list due to awareness,” Dr Al Hamad told this newspaper. The clinic for early diagnosis, monitoring and treat- ment of severe memory loss among the elderly has been in operation since 2013. The first-of-its-kind facility in Qatar, has a geriatrician, a psycho-geriatric consultant, a specialist and an occupational therapist who assists with the cognitive treatment of the patients. The multi-disciplinary centre offers psycho-geriatric assistance to the elderly suffering from memory lose — dementia — and referred by any hospital across the country. At the clinic, each patient is evaluated for at least one hour before treatment begins. Follow-up treat- ment is required every three to six months to check the effectiveness of the medication. “The clinic is envisaged as a centre that provide full care, including memory loss treatment, as well as preventive care for the elderly. This includes providing education on factors that could lead to memory loss among the elderly,” said Dr Al Hamad. According to reports, dementia usually occurs in the older age from 65 years and the risk increases as a person gets older. Worldwide, the prevalence of dementia among those aged 65 is five percent while it is 20 percent and 30 percent among those aged 75 and 85, respectively. Dementia is caused by the loss of certain brain cells during certain diseases. Most types of dementia are non- reversible (degenerative). Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia. THE PENINSULA SUNDAY 27 DECEMBER 2015 04 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com HOME Rainwater removed from affected areas Ashghal urges people not to open any manholes; no rainfall forecast for today by weather bureau

Cars move cautiously on a water-logged street, (RIGHT) a tanker pumps out rainwater from a low-lying street and DOHA: The Public Works ways were cleared or rainwater. today, the weather bureau said (BELOW) vehicles on a water-logged road yesterday. KAMMUTTY VP and ABDUL BASIT Authority (Ashghal) and the However, according to peo- nightly temperatures may drop Ministry of Municipality and ple in residential areas, internal to between 13 and 17 degrees C. Urban Planning which coordi- streets continue to have rainwa- In Doha, the nightly mer- nated efforts to remove logged ter and tankers have not been cury level is forecast at 15 and rainwater late on Thursday and able to reach these places. in Abu Samra 13, Meassieed and yesterday, cleared all affected Also, due to water-logging, Al Wakrah 14 degrees and Al areas. many people reported that their Ruwais 17. The ministry has provided cars had developed defects. Day temperatures will vary a link on its official Twitter Ashghal said its water-removal from 18 degrees (Dukhan) to 20 account which can be accessed teams became active as soon as it (Doha, Al Khor, Meassieed and by people to make a request to began raining late on Thursday Al Wakrah) and 19 in Al Ruwais. immediately send water tanker and were active yesterday as well. No rains have been forecast for to an affected area to drain out The authority can be con- today, while wind will be north- rainwater. tacted for emergency on hotline westerly, moving at speeds of five One needs to access ‘sew- 44951111. People can also email to 15 knots inland while offshore age vehicle request’ section in Ashghal (customerservice@ash- will be partly cloudy and wind the link and key in details such ghal.giv,qa). direction will be northwesterly as building number, area, zone Ashghal has urged people that (which moves from the colder number, street name and number no one should open a manhole on areas of Europe). and the ID number of the per- the road since it can be a dan- The bureau warned that the son making the request and his gerous thing to do. “Only we can seas will be high and rough and mobile phone number. open a manhole,” the authority wind strong. Ashghal said by early yesterday said. afternoon all highways and sub- In its routine forecast for THE PENINSULA

QC in deal to hire people with disabilities DOHA: Qatar Chamber (QC) yesterday signed a can boost the human capital of any society and that cooperation agreement with Volunteer Commit- requires relying on specialists to help such people. tee for Employment of People with Disabilities to Khalid Al Shoaibi, Head of the committee, praised provide training and employment to people with QC’s keenness to rehabilitate and employ people disabilities. with disabilities and said the deal represents a sig- QC President Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim bin nificant proportion of the Qatari society, whether Mohammed Al Thani said the agreement is part Qataris or expatriates and hoped the agreement of QC’s commitment to social responsibility and materialises into a successful initiative for employ- support to people with disabilities. He said people ing such people . with disabilities, if allowed to reach their potential, QNA

Manhal Group Deputy General Manager Muhamed Sadiq, Q Asia Development CEO C P A Jaleel, Fire Flow Technical Services and Trading Managing Director O Sajeev and organisers release the entry pass for Welcome 2016.

Welcome 2016 for harmony, social solidarity DOHA: Mediaplus, a local advertising and event management company, in association with Frame One Media, is organising a unique musical show on the eve of New Year call- ing for communal har- mony and social solidarity. The musical nite — Wel- come 2016 — will be held at Asoka hall of Indian Cul- tural Centre on Thursday from 9 pm to 1am. Amanulla Vadakkan- gara, CEO, Mediaplus, told a press conference that the event aims to spread the messages of love, peace and communal harmony. Entry to the show is restricted through free passes which can be procured from Mediaplus office. Frame One Media Manager E P Bijoy Kumar; Manhal Group Deputy General Manager Muhamed Sadiq; Q Asia Development CEO C P A Jaleel; Operations Man- ager C K Siraj; Fire Flow Technical Services and Trading Managing Direc- tor O Sajeev; Dr Pushpan, Mediaplus Marketing Coordinator Abdul Fathah Nilambur also attended the press briefing.

THE PENINSULA SUNDAY 27 DECEMBER 2015 HOME / GULF / MIDDLE EAST www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 05 28 million gallons of rainwater removed across Qatar in less than 24 hours

DOHA: Municipal authorities have removed more gallons, Al Dayen (3.97 million gallons), Al Rayyan than 28 million gallons of rainwater from water- municipality (5.13 million gallons), Umm Salal (4.53 logged areas in the country in less than 24 hours million gallons), and Al Khor-Al Dhakhira (4.02 since Friday afternoon. The water removed is suf- million gallons). Qatar Fuel (Woqod) oil tankers ficient to fill more than 42 Olympic-sized swimming are visiting different areas and supplying diesel to pools. Logged water was being removed from various tankers pumping water. Preference is being given areas until the time of going to press at 10pm yester- to highways, roads, schools, subways and govern- day. In Doha, some 2.83 million gallons of water was ment buildings and requests received from people removed from 3pm on Friday until early yesterday to remove water from near their homes. afternoon. In Al Wakrah, the water removed was 5.03 million THE PENINSULA

Protest over Egypt jails two cops for Qatari students with officials at one of the workshops. crackdown on Kurdish rebels life for torture killing BERLIN: Around 15,000 people CAIRO: An Egyptian court sen- Yesterday’s judgement was the QC holds workshops for marched in Dusseldorf yesterday tenced two policemen to life in third this month for a death in to protest against Turkey’s mili- jail for torturing to death a man custody, after President Abdel tary crackdown against Kurdis- in custody, in the third such ver- Fattah Al Sisi warned that police tan Workers Party (PKK) rebels, dict this month, a judicial source officers found guilty of “commit- Qatari students in UK local police said. said. ting mistakes” would be punished. The marchers, demonstrating A court in the Nile Delta city On December 12, a court sen- on behalf of Germany’s federation of Tanta sentenced Lieutenant tenced two secret policemen to of Kurdish groups, Nav-Dem, also Ahmed Al Kafrawi and Ser- five years in prison for beating to Events aimed at developing skills, reinforcing morals slammed the European Union geant Hani Salah in absentia to death an imprisoned lawyer in a for striking a refugee “deal” with life behind bars for killing Ismail Cairo police station in February. DOHA: Qatar Charity (QC) club other aspects in order to keep the tre and it affects all other three Ankara, promising 3bn euros in Abdelhamid in October last year. The verdict came two days organised a number of develop- heart in balance. axes. return for holding back refugee The two fugitives were also after another court sentenced an mental workshop for the Qatari He mentioned that the ‘body Fahd Al Jalham, President of flows. handed a year in jail for violence officer to five years for beating to students in Britain that saw a axis” included sleep, food, and Coventry’s Students Club, said A police spokesman said the against another detainee, the death a suspect in a drug case in participation of more than 80 movement and emphasized on that the event witnessed a dis- turnout was higher than about source said. the Nile Delta town of Rashid. students. how keeping these aspects in tinguished presence and interac- 7,000 people expected by the Under Egyptian law, they will The prosecutor general has Organised by QC’s club balance would ensure a healthy tion from the students. Students organisers. After a ceasefire for be given a new trial if they are also ordered 13 policemen to “Qemam”, these workshops were body and a healthy brain capable in the Coventry Club were happy over two years, fighting resumed arrested or turn themselves in. stand trial next month for beat- aimed at developing the skills and of creativity and innovation. to receive such workshops and last summer between Turkish Rights groups regularly accuse ing to death a man in custody reinforcing the morals of Qatari He also discussed how the gatherings, as they created oppor- security forces and the PKK, the regular police and members in the southern city of Luxor in students in British universities. students should determine their tunities to meet with people with dashing hopes of ending a conflict of the secret police of abusing and November. It was held in cooperation with main goals to manage their lives different kinds of expertise, he that has left more than 40,000 torturing detainees. AFP other Qatari students’ clubs in effectively. He spoke about the added. He wished that Qemam people dead since 1984. Britain. The workshops dealt with greatest achievements that the Club would continue its noble Security forces are imposing the four axes of heart, mind, body, youth should keep in mind. efforts to enrich students’ lives curfews in several towns in the and money. Regarding “money axis’, Abu in Britain. Kurdish-dominated southeast to The workshops were held in Moza explained how money is Qemam had previously held root out rebels from urban cen- the cities Cardiff, Liverpool, and earned through one’s profes- three gatherings for Qatari stu- tres. The operations mark a new Iraqi ‘Kurdish forces in anti-IS raid’ Coventry. sion. In order for the employee dents in Britain. escalation in five months of fight- KIRKUK: Iraqi Kurdish forces carried out a commando operation Khaled Abu Moza, a Mus- to keep their job, they need to be Theses gatherings were held in ing with the PKK, which initially near Hawijah in which several senior members of the Islamic State lim preacher spoke on the topic honest and efficient. They should the cities with the largest num- fought for Kurdish independence (IS) group were captured or killed, local and security sources said “success at the time of luxury” also work hard to continuously bers of Qatari students: Swansea, but now presses more for greater yesterday. The operation involved helicopters and bore similarities where he focused on faith, love, enhance their work through Cardiff, and Huddersfield. autonomy and rights for the larg- with a joint raid elite Kurdish troops conducted in October with US and hobbies, explaining how one’s developing their skills. He added est ethnic minority. special forces also near Hawijah, the sources said. hobbies should not dominate the that the heart is the control cen- THE PENINSULA AFP AFP SUNDAY 27 DECEMBER 2015 06 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com GULF / MIDDLE EAST

US reporter Iraqi soldiers jailed in Iran allowed visit push deep into by family

WASHINGTON: Jason Reza- ian, the Washington Post journal- ist who has been held by Iran’s IS-held Ramadi government for nearly 18 months, was allowed a rare visit with rela- tives for several hours on Christ- Bombs, booby traps slow action mas Day, the daily said. The Iranian-American BAGHDAD: Iraqi troops have “to liberate all of Ramadi from reporter, convicted of espionage pushed deeper into the heart of three sides”. by a secretive Iranian court and the last remaining district held “Our troops are now advanc- serving an unspecified prison sen- by Islamic State in the city of ing towards their targets but were tence, marked his 500th day in the Ramadi, despite being slowed delayed because the criminals notorious Evin prison earlier this by bombs and booby traps, army have booby-trapped everything,” month. spokesmen said yesterday. he said. “This is the first time in the Recapturing Ramadi, which fell Ramadi is a provincial capital year that I have been visiting him to the militants in May, would be in the fertile Euphrates River val- in Evin prison that I could spend one of the most important vic- ley, just two hours drive west of an extended time there and bring tories achieved by Iraq’s armed Baghdad. Most remaining civil- him his first home cooked meal forces since Islamic State swept ians in the IS-held central district in months,” his mother Mary across a third of the country in have taken shelter in the city’s Rezaian said in an email to the 2014. hospital, knowing that the army newspaper. Soldiers advanced overnight will not target it, Rasool said. “We had a wonderful time in the Hoz neighbourhood that He declined to give a time together reminiscing of holidays houses the provincial govern- frame for the final onslaught to Iraqi security forces gather to advance towards the centre of Ramadi city. The troops who have fought their way past.” ment compound, the target of an dislodge the militants. deep into the Islamic State stronghold of Ramadi were consolidating their positions yesterday. Rezaian’s wife Yeganeh Salehi, attack that started on Tuesday, “The campaign’s priority is to an Iranian citizen who works for joint operations command spokes- avoid casualties among civilians offensives, have been kept away a major setback for Baghdad and effectively abolish their state a newspaper based in the United man Brigadier Yahya Rasool said. and the troops, no matter how from the battlefield in Ramadi for the Iraqi troops that have been structure in Iraq and deprive Arab Emirates, also attended. “The counter-terrorism forces long it takes,” he said. to avoid angering Sunni Muslim trained by the United States since them of a major source of fund- Rezaian, 39, was born in the are within 800 metres from the Military officials had said on residents. the overthrow of Saddam Hussein ing, which comes partly from oil United States and holds dual government complex,” advanc- Wednesday the offensive to retake The city is the capital of mainly in 2003. and partly from fees and taxes on nationality. He was arrested in ing by about 1km in the past day, the central district should take Sunni Muslim Anbar province. After Ramadi, the army plans residents. July 2014 at his home in Tehran, Rasool said. several days. The government said it would be to move to retake the northern “The liberation of dear Mosul where he had worked for the Post “Air strikes helped detonate The Iraqi government forces handed over to the local police city of Mosul, the biggest popula- will be achieved with the coopera- for two years. explosive devices and booby- are backed by air support from an and to a Sunni tribal force once tion centre under Islamic State tion and unity of all Iraqis after Salehi was also arrested, but trapped houses, facilitating our international coalition led by the it was secured. control in Iraq and Syria. the victory in Ramadi,” Prime she was released on bail. advance,” he added. United States. Shia militia units Ramadi was Islamic State’s Dislodging the militants from Minister Haider Al Abadi said The Washington Post’s execu- Special operation commander backed by Iran, which have played biggest prize of 2015, abandoned Mosul, which had a pre-war pop- on Friday. tive editor, Martin Baron, said Sami Al Aridhi said the plan was a major part in other government by government forces in May in ulation close to 2 million, would REUTERS he and staff were pleased with Iran’s “act of basic humanity” in allowing Rezaian to spend time with family. Turkish journalists’ demonstration But Baron reiterated the Post’s call for their colleague’s release. Turkish PM cancels Hamas condemns killing of mentally meeting with HDP ill Palestinian

ANKARA: Turkey’s prime scheduled for Wednesday. GAZA: The Palestinian interior minister yesterday cancelled a “Recent statements by HDP ministry in Gaza accused Egyp- planned meeting with the pro- officials reflect a politics that ben- tian forces yesterday of killing Kurdish Peoples’ Democratic efits from violence and tension. a mentally ill Palestinian who Party (HDP), saying its politics There is no longer any point in had waded through the sea into was rooted in violence, as govern- sharing the same table with this Egypt’s territory. ment forces pursued a security attitude,” the prime minister’s The incident happened on Fri- operation in the mainly Kurdish office said in a statement. day, Gaza’s interior ministry said. southeast. The army said in a statement Video broadcast by Al Jazeera A two-year ceasefire between yesterday that more than 200 network showed the man walking Kurdish militants and Ankara fell Kurdish militants had been killed in the Mediterranean sea, naked, apart in July, plunging the south- in security operations over the and then crossing through a wire east back into a three-decades-old last two weeks. fence into Egyptian territory conflict that has killed more than A 3-month-old baby and her before he is fired at several times 40,000 people. grandfather who was carrying her while still in the water. Another Prime Minister Ahmet Davu- to hospital both died in clashes person on the beach appears toglu had been due to hold meet- between security forces and mili- to signal to security forces at a ings this week with the leaders tants in the southeastern town of watchtower to stop shooting and A banner that reads, “Not writer but maker is guilty” is held (centre) as journalists and Turkish intellectuals of all three opposition parties in Cizre, where a curfew has been the man’s body is seen floating in take part in a demonstration in Istanbul yesterday following the arrest of Cumhuriyet newspaper’s Editor-in- parliament to discuss planned imposed since December 14. the water and then washed up on Chief last month. constitutional reform. His meet- shore. ing with the HDP leader was REUTERS AGENCIES

Fighting persists outside rebel-held Sana’a

ADEN: Yemeni loyalists killed at least 20 Sana’a. Forces loyal to Yemeni President the Houthis who want to reconquer Jabal Al Iran-backed rebels yesterday in a pushback Abderabbo Mansour Hadi and the Saudi-led Nar” mountainous area they lost last week, against insurgents seeking to retake posi- military coalition supporting them have sent he said. Supported by Saudi Apache helicop- tions to the northeast of the capital they troops and armoured vehicles to reinforce ters, pro-government forces “repelled the control, military sources said. the district. attack and inflicted heavy human losses on “The Houthis (rebels) on Friday launched Another six loyalists were killed yester- the Houthis,” he added. an offensive in the direction of Jabal Al Salb day in a rebel rocket attack on the presiden- Coalition fighter jets led dawn raids on in Nihm” district of Sana’a province, “but tial palace in Marib, a town east of Sana’a rebel positions in Majzar area in northern were repelled yesterday morning,” a loyalist under loyalist control, a pro-government Jawf province, which is mostly under loyalist commander said. military source said. control, a spokesman for the pro-govern- “At least 20 Houthis were killed” since In Hajja province bordering Saudi Ara- ment Popular Resistance militia said. Friday night, another military source said, bia, loyalists fended off a rebel attack north Loyalist forces advanced in Ghayl area adding that an unspecified number of loyal- of Haradh town, which was recaptured by in the same province, around 20 kilometres ist troops also died in the fighting. pro-government forces last week, a loyalist northeast of Majzar, spokesman Mohamed Last week, pro-government forces cap- officer said. Al Behaih added. tured the Jabal Al Salb area 40km outside “We’re facing a counter-offensive from Strikes also targeted rebel positions in the Baqim and Kitaf areas in northern Saada province, the rebels’ stronghold, loyalist mil- itary sources said. The Houthis confirmed the strikes in a statement. Meanwhile, rebel rocket fire hit resi- dential areas of the southwestern city of Taiz, causing “several casualties”, a military source said. Two rebels and two loyalists died in clashes in the city’s southern and western districts, while six more Houthis died in an ambush in Maqbana to the north- west of the city, the source said. The largest hospital in Taiz, which is under rebel seige, has closed due to “all its medicine and surgical materials running out,” the hospital’s management said in a statement yesterday. During peace talks last week, both sides had agreed to “allow for a full and immedi- ate resumption of humanitarian assistance” into Taiz. But this aid “never reached resi- dents in the centre of Taiz, as Houthis seized it to give it to their supporters,” Abdelkarim Shamsan, the head of a local humanitarian Soldiers loyal to Yemen’s government search for landmines left by the Houthi rebels next to organisation, said. destroyed transmission towers in the Mas area in the central province of Marib yesterday. AFP SUNDAY 27 DECEMBER 2015 GULF / MIDDLE EAST www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 07 Evacuation of militants from Damascus delayed Delay deals blow to UN efforts to end govt siege

BEIRUT: A UN-brokered deal chances of reasserting control opposition and others”. to evacuate more than 2,000 over a strategic area 4km south “He counts on full cooperation Islamic State fighters and other of the centre of the capital. of all the relevant Syrian parties militants from rebel-held sub- It was unclear when, and if at in this process. Continuing devel- urbs of Damascus yesterday has all, the evacuation would take opments on the ground should not been delayed after the killing of place. The delay deals a blow to be allowed to derail it,” the state- an insurgent leader, an organi- UN efforts to end a years-long ment said. sation that monitors the Syrian government siege of parts of the In a separate development that war said. city controlled by a patchwork of underlined the rapidly changing The United Nations said it rebel groups that has impeded military situation, a US-backed aimed to convene peace talks in the flow of food and humanitar- alliance of Syrian Kurds and Arab Geneva on January 25 to try to ian aid, starving many people to rebel groups said it had captured end nearly five years of civil war death. a dam from Islamic State yes- and it appealed to the warring The United Nations and for- terday, cutting a main supply parties not to allow events on the eign governments have stepped route of the militants across the ground to derail the process. up efforts to broker local cease- Euphrates. The evacuation from Damascus fires and safe-passage agreements Since the alliance was formed had been expected to take place towards a wider goal of ending last October, its fighters have early yesterday but was delayed as the civil war, in which more than launched several major offen- there was now no secure territory 250,000 people have been killed. sives against Islamic State with for the militants to pass through, The civil war was sparked by the ultimate goal of capturing according to the Syrian Observa- a Syrian government crackdown Raqqa. tory for Human Rights, an inde- on a pro-democracy movement in Spokesman Colonel Talal Selo pendent British-based monitoring early 2011. Islamic State militants said the seizure of the dam, with group that tracks violence across have used the chaos to seize ter- the backing of US coalition planes, Syria. ritory in Syria and Iraq. About helped isolate the militants’ Buses were due to transport 4.3 million Syrians have fled their strongholds in northern Aleppo the fighters to Raqqa, the de country. from their territories east of the facto capital of Islamic State in The UN Security Council Euphrates river, where Raqqa is northern Syria, Lebanese Hezbol- on December 18 unanimously located. lah’s Manar TV station said. But approved a resolution endorsing The militant Islamist group has it fell through after the Jaysh Al an international road map for a come under intensifying military Islam rebel group’s leader Zahran Syrian peace process, a rare show pressure in recent weeks —but a A man walks near a damaged truck at a site hit by what activists said were air strikes carried out by the Russian Alloush — through whose terri- of consensus among major pow- new message purporting to come air force in Karf Naseh town, Aleppo countryside, Syria, yesterday. tory the convoy had been granted ers. from its leader said air strikes by safe passage — was killed in an UN Syria mediator Staffan de Russia and a US-led coalition had tougher it gets,” said the audio itself free from its Jewish and Islamic State statements in the air strike on Friday, Manar said. Mistura, announcing the planned failed to weaken it. recording, described as being by Crusader lords and made the past, could not be verified. The The arrangement was the first date of the peace talks in Geneva “Be confident that God will Abu Bakr Al Baghdadi. killing the Jews and the libera- last such online public message of its kind between Syrian author- next month, said in a statement grant victory to those who wor- It slammed Saudi Arabia’s tion of Palestine its goal,” the said to be by Baghdadi was posted ities and Islamic State. It would yesterday that he aimed to con- ship him, and hear the good news efforts to set up a coalition of message said. in May, and he has been reported have marked a significant success vene representatives of the Syr- that our state is doing well. The Muslim nations to fight his The authenticity of the mes- injured or killed several times in for the government of President ian government and “the broadest more intense the war against group. “If it was an Islamic coa- sage, posted on Saturday on Twit- fighting. Bashar Al Assad, increasing its possible spectrum of the Syrian it, the purer it becomes and the lition, it would have declared ter accounts that have published REUTERS

Record 12,000 register Israeli troops shoot two Palestinians to death

JERUSALEM: Israeli security the occupied West Bank, as 12 Israeli forces or armed civilians ers have been killed in clashes for Iran election forces said they shot dead two weeks of heightened violence have killed at least 128 Pales- with security forces. Palestinians yesterday in sepa- showed no sign of abating. tinians, 79 of whom authorities In the latest fatal incident, the DUBAI: Almost 12,000 candi- exchange for a lifting of sanctions rate incidents in Jerusalem and Since the start of October, described as assailants. Most oth- Israeli military said a Palestinian dates have registered for Iran’s crippling the economy. rammed his car into Israeli sol- February parliamentary election, Several former ministers from diers at a West Bank checkpoint. state television said yesterday, the cabinets of two ex-presi- “Forces responded to the immi- breaking participation records dents, the reformist Mohammad nent danger and fired towards at a time of political uncertainty Khatami and the conservative the perpetrator,” the military in the Islamic Republic. Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, are said, adding that one soldier had President Hassan Rowhani, among the candidates. been wounded and evacuated to a centrist who won election by The Guardian Council, an hospital. The 56-year-old Pales- a landslide in 2013 and champi- unelected judicial body that vets tinian man died after being taken oned Iran’s July nuclear deal with candidates on technical and ideo- to hospital, the Palestinian Health world powers, is hoping his sup- logical grounds, is likely to dis- Ministry said. porters can take control of the qualify several thousand of them The Palestinians disputed 290-seat assembly and end years before voters go to the polls on the Israeli military’s account of of dominance by conservative fac- February 26. the incident. Jamil Dawoud, 49, tions. To pass the vetting procedure, said he was travelling in the car A supportive legislature could candidates must have a Masters behind the one of the man shot, give Rowhani a stronger mandate degree and support the principles at the checkpoint where soldiers to push through domestic reforms of the Islamic Republic. Grounds were inspecting the vehicles and to increase social and political lib- for disqualification include reject- that the soldier who opened fire erties — an area where his efforts ing Islam or having links to appeared to misunderstand what have so far been checked by the banned political parties. had happened. judiciary and security forces. Around 5,200 candidates signed “There were three soldiers. But hardliners have warned of up for the last parliamentary One soldier signalled for the man potential “sedition” at the polls, elections in 2012, but more than to come forward, a soldier was a word used to describe reform- a third were disqualified, leaving on the edge of the road and he ist protests following disputed around 3,400 candidates on poll- tried to move backward when he presidential elections in 2009 that ing day. Elections to the Assem- slipped. The second soldier opened touched off a wave of repression bly of Experts, an 88-seat clerical fire, firing four bullets at the man, and arrests. body that will select Iran’s next after that they tried to give him Rowhani and his powerful clerical Supreme Leader, will be first aid,” Dawoud said. ally, Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani, held on the same day; 801 candi- Hours earlier police officers are hoping to win a majority by dates including Rouhani and sev- shot dead a Palestinian who tried cashing in on the popularity they eral of his prominent allies have A member of the Israeli armed forces stops a Palestinian ambulance near the site where a Palestinian was shot to stab a policeman near Jerusa- gained from the deal to restrain signed up. and killed in West Bank. lem’s walled Old City. Iran’s nuclear programme in REUTERS AFP SUNDAY 27 DECEMBER 2015 08 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com ASIA / AFRICA

Tsunami victims remembered Armed China China confirms it will ship near isles disputed expel French scribe with Japan TOKYO: A Chinese coast guard ship which appeared to be armed Ursula Gauthier championing terrorist acts, says Beijing with several cannon yesterday entered what Tokyo regards as BEIJING: China yesterday con- “They confirmed that if I did its territorial waters near dis- firmed the imminent expulsion not make a public apology on all puted islands, the Japan Coast of a French journalist in the first the points that had ‘hurt the Chi- Guard said. such case since 2012, accusing her nese people’... my press card would Japan and China routinely of “flagrantly championing” ter- not be renewed and I would have butt heads over ownership of the rorist acts, in a statement on its to leave on December 31,” Gauth- uninhabited East China Sea islets, foreign ministry’s website. ier said on Friday. Acehnese women attend a mass prayer gathering at Lampuuk village as Chinese ships — mostly coast Ursula Gauthier (pictured), a Gauthier would be the first in Banda Aceh yesterday as Indonesians marked the 11th anniversary guard vessels — and aircraft have Beijing-based correspondent for foreign correspondent to be of the powerful earthquake off Indonesia’s western tip that generated sometimes approached them to French news magazine L’Obs, expelled since the 2012 expulsion tsunami waves which pummelled the coastlines of 14 countries, killing back up Beijing’s claims and test must issue a public apology for of Melissa Chan, correspondent Japan’s response. some 220,000 people. an article she wrote last month for the English-language service It was however the first time an or China’s foreign ministry will of Al Jazeera. apparently armed Chinese coast not renew her press credentials, The move has been met with guard vessel had “entered the ter- officials told Gauthier on Christ- widespread criticism from the ritorial waters near the Senkaku mas Day. and remains inaccessible on the French government, press watch- Rebels kill nine people Islands”, the Japan Coast Guard Her essay “flagrantly champi- mainland’s censored internet in its dog Reporters Without Borders said. oned acts of terrorism and acts of original French. (RSF) and Gauthier’s employer. Japan administers the uninhab- cruelly killing innocents, trigger- Entitled “After the attacks (on “France will remain commit- ited islands under that name but ing the Chinese people’s outrage,” Paris), Chinese solidarity is not ted to the defence of freedom in Philippine south China also claims them and calls said the foreign ministry state- without ulterior motives”, Gauth- of expression and information them the Diaoyus. ment. ier’s article spoke of China’s anti- throughout the world,” wrote MANILA: A breakaway Muslim away from the main Muslim Last Tuesday Japan said it had Citing her failure to make a terrorism policies in the country’s French minister of culture and rebel group killed nine civilians rebel group in 2011 to fight for spotted the armed Chinese coast “serious apology to the Chinese western region of Xinjiang, home- communication Fleur Pellerin last in the southern Philippines in a the creation of an Islamic state in guard ship for the first time in people”, the statement said: “It is land of the Muslim Uighur ethnic Friday on Twitter in response to series of attacks on Christmas the south of the mainly Catholic the contiguous waters near the not suitable for her to continue minority — many of whom com- the news. eve, officials said yesterday, in a country, a goal shared by another islands. working in China.” plain of discrimination and con- Gauthier’s article in L’Obs trig- reminder that the region remains small militant group, Abu Sayyaf, “The ship is seen carrying four “China will never support the trols on their culture and religion. gered condemnation from Beijing volatile despite recent gains in which has gained notoriety for pieces of equipment, two at the freedom to champion terrorism,” Xinjiang is often hit by deadly and a virulent campaign in the the peace process. bombings, beheadings and kid- front and another set of two at it added. unrest and China blames the vio- state-run Global Times and China Army troops killed four mem- nappings of foreigners in the the rear, which each seem to have But the Chinese people lence on Islamist separatists, but Daily, as well as thousands of often bers of the Bangsamoro Islamic western part of Mindanao. something similar to a cannon,” a expressed confusion over their rights groups point to Beijing’s violent and abusive comments Freedom Fighters, a faction The ceasefire with the main coastguard spokeswoman had said own purported indignation, as own actions as a driver. from Chinese Internet users. Her opposed to a peace deal between Moro Islamic Liberation Front is at the time. most had not read or even heard If Gauthier’s press card is not photo was also published online. government and the mainstream holding, however, while both the The same ship entered what of Gauthier’s article, which has renewed, she cannot apply for a Muslim rebel group, after they government and communist guer- Tokyo considers its territorial no Chinese-language version new visa, forcing her to leave China. AFP attacked a farming town in Sultan rillas declared a 12-day ceasefire waters, with two other Chinese Kudarat province on the southern from December 23 nationwide coast guard vessels without such island of Mindanao. to mark the Christmas and New equipment, at around 9:30 am Miriam Ferrer, the govern- Year’s holidays. Yesterday, the yesterday and stayed for about ment’s chief negotiator in peace Maoist-led rebel group also cel- an hour, the Japan Coast Guard talks with the Moro Islamic Lib- ebrated its 46th anniversary. said in statements. eration Front, said seven farm- Security forces are on height- In November, Japan said it More than 100 homes lost ers were shot at close range while ened alert around shopping malls, spotted a Chinese naval intel- working in their rice paddies and churches, bus stations and ferry ligence ship operating near the two other civilians were killed in terminals during the holidays to disputed islands for the first time. a grenade attack on a chapel in guard against possible attacks. Relations between Japan and in Australian bushfires nearby North Cotabato province. Police officials said the group China hit a low after Tokyo in Ferrer said the rebels had behind the Christmas eve attacks September 2012 moved to increase MELBOURNE: More than 100 also taken civilian hostage in the in Mindanao had pledged alle- its formal control by nationalising homes burned down in a leading Sultan Kudarat attack and used giance to the Islamic State group, some of the islands. Australian tourist area in bush- them as human shields when sol- but they had no evidence linking But the countries have taken fires on Christmas Day and the diers pursued them, but the hos- them directly to militants from steps over the past year to situation remained dangerous tages were later freed. Islamic State. improve ties. yesterday, as officials predicted The Bangsamoro group broke REUTERS AFP more blazes to come later in the hot southern summer. While around 500 firefighters and 13 firefighting aircraft battled the flames along parts of Victoria state’s picturesque Great Ocean Islamists kill 10 Mali Tuareg rebels Road, teams moved in to assess damage from fires that had lit up BAMAKO: Islamist fighters was ambushed on its way to the “AQIM, MUJWA and Ansar Dine the night sky along the coast on killed 10 Tuareg rebels in two border, said Sidi Ould Ibrahim have even met to put in place a Christmas. attacks near northern Mali’s Sidat, an official with the Tuareg coalition.” A spokesman for the state’s border with Algeria this week umbrella group, the Coordination Islamist groups hijacked a emergency services said 98 homes in a growing wave of violence, of Movements of Azawad. Tuareg rebellion in early 2012 had been confirmed burned in Tuareg officials said yesterday. This organisation signed a to seize Mali’s desert north. A the community of Wye River and The coastal seaside town of Lorne is deserted after bushfires destroyed Six fighters from the National peace deal in June with the Mal- French-led intervention scat- another 18 in nearby Separation houses in nearby towns in the Otway Ranges, south of Melbourne. Movement for the Liberation of ian government as part of efforts tered them a year later, but Creek, for a total of 116 in the two Azawad, northern Mali’s largest to draw a line under a series of Islamist fighters have stepped townships, located about 120km weather in January without a Although an evacuation alert Tuareg rebel group, were killed separatist uprisings. up attacks this year. southwest of Melbourne. doubt. Everything’s available to was lifted for the popular tourist on Thursday when Islamist mili- He blamed the attacks on Nineteen people, most of Top emergency officials warned burn.” town of Lorne and rain overnight tants attacked their checkpoint fighters from al Qaeda in the them foreigners, were killed in that dry conditions posed a threat The Great Ocean Road is one of had helped the firefighting opera- in the town of Talahandak, the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM), the an assault on a luxury hotel in of more fires for the Great Ocean Australia’s biggest tourist draws tion, officials said the situation group said. Movement for Unity and Jihad the capital Bamako in Novem- Road area and the rest of Victoria. with its spectacular scenery and remained potentially dangerous It added that Islamist fighters in West Africa (MUJWA), Ansar ber. Islamist groups AQIM, al “This fire doesn’t go away,” unusual offshore rock formations. with many hotspots. Images from were also killed in the clashes, Dine and the Macina Liberation Mourabitoun, and the Macina Craig Lapsley, the state’s emer- It remained mostly closed to traf- the scene showed hillsides charred though it did not give further Front. Liberation Front all claimed gency services commissioner, told fic yesterday during what is typi- to the ground all the way down to details. “The attacks were caused by responsibility for the attack. a news conference. cally one of its busiest times of the the coast. Four more died last Friday Islamists ... that are opposed “We will be back into hot, windy year. REUTERS when a convoy of reinforcements to the peace deal,” Sidat said. REUTERS

Tokyo mulls new fund New landslide hits Myanmar jade mine

YANGON: Rescuers were from nearby villages have told for ‘comfort women’ searching through mud and rub- us, just three or four people are ble yesterday after a new landslide missing at the moment,” Myo TOKYO: Japan plans to propose that the two countries sign a buried workers — possibly dozens Thet Aung, also from the Hpakant a fresh fund to support former statement confirming that the — in a remote jade mining region Administrative Office, said. comfort women as foreign minis- issue of comfort women is settled in northern Myanmar, the second By mid-afternoon yesterday ters from Tokyo and Seoul meet completely, the Japanese newspa- such incident in just over a month. officials said they still had not next week to settle a bitter row pers reported. The landslide took place on Fri- found any bodies. over a Japanese wartime brothel Prime Minister Shinzo Abe day afternoon in Hpakant, Kachin The same area was hit by a system, reports said yesterday. is aiming for a resolution of the State, the war-torn area that is massive landslide last month The one-day meeting between lingering issue that has over- the epicentre of Myanmar’s secre- that killed more than 100 people. Japanese Foreign Minister Fumio shadowed diplomatic relations tive billion dollar jade industry. Locals says dozens more have died Kishida and his South Korean between the two East Asian US “The rescue process has now throughout the year in smaller counterpart, Yun Byung-se, will allies. started and we are searching for accidents. be held in Seoul tomorrow, offi- Japan issued a landmark 1993 dead bodies but we can’t tell the The region is remote, with lit- cials have said. statement that expressed “sincere numbers yet,” Nilar Myint, an offi- tle phone coverage and poor roads The ministers are to discuss apologies and remorse” to the cial from Hpakant Administrative making it difficult to obtain pre- “matters of mutual concern” such women “who suffered immeas- Office, said. cise and swift data after such inci- as the issue of women system- urable pain and incurable physi- A photographer on the scene dents. atically forced to have sex with cal and psychological wounds as said mechanical diggers had been Those killed in landslides are Japanese soldiers during World comfort women”. brought in to sift through a huge mainly itinerant workers who War II. But it has long maintained that pile of debris that had slid down a scratch a living picking through Rescue workers at the site of a landslide yesterday in Hpakant, in Kachin The Japanese government is the dispute was settled in a 1965 steep hillside. the piles of waste left by large- State, the war-torn area that is the epicentre of Myanmar’s billion-dollar considering creating a new fund normalisation agreement with Locals report as many as 50 scale industrial mining firms in jade industry. of about 100m yen ($830,000) to South Korea, which saw Tokyo people might have been buried by the hope of stumbling across a help former comfort women, the make a total payment of $800m the wall of mud and stones. previously missed hunk of jade ite, a near-translucent green stone of environmental destruction as Mainichi daily reported, while in grants or loans to its former But a second official involved in that will deliver them from pov- that is enormously prized in neigh- firms use ever-larger diggers to other media said the sum would colony. the rescue operation downplayed erty. bouring China. claw the precious stone from the be larger than that. that number. Myanmar is the source of virtu- The Hpakant landscape has ground. Tokyo also plans to propose AFP “According to what officials ally all of the world’s finest jade- been turned into a moonscape AFP SUNDAY 27 DECEMBER 2015 ASIA / PAKISTAN www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 09

Nepal quake Pakistan plays down reconstruction body finally cleared to start January India talks KATHMANDU: Eight months after a devastating earthquake hit Nepal, its government has Bilawal Bhutto, Imran Khan welcome Modi’s visit finally opened the way for a reconstruction agency to spend ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Prime ing issues including Jammu and Khan have welcomed Indian $4.1bn pledged by foreign donors Minister Nawaz Sharif’s Foreign Kashmir, he maintained. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s to help the massive number of Affairs Adviser Sartaj Aziz has The foreign affairs adviser said surprise visit to Pakistan. people rendered homeless. said it would not be fair to expect “in the recent meeting between Bilawal said the only solution Two separate earthquakes in instant resolution of all issues the prime ministers of the two to Pakistan-India issues was con- April and May killed 9,000 peo- during the initial phase of the countries in Lahore it was decided stant communication between ple, injured more than 22,000 comprehensive dialogue between that foreign secretaries would the two countries, the Pakistani and damaged or destroyed nearly the foreign secretaries of Paki- meet in the midst of next month media reported. The Pakistan An earthquake victim is brought to a hospital in Peshawar, Pakistan. 900,000 houses, forcing many to stan and India. to decide details of dialogue on all People’s Party leader said Modi’s live in shelters built with tarps In an earlier announcement, issues”. Friday trip was welcome. and iron sheets, even in freezing Aziz said that the meeting Promotion of good neighbourly On his way home from Kabul, temperatures. between the foreign secretaries of relations with all neighbours is Modi halted in Lahore for about It took until September for the two countries has been sched- the policy of the incumbent gov- two hours and met his Pakistani Scores injured as Nepal to create the National uled for the middle of next month. ernment, said Aziz, adding “as counterpart Nawaz Sharif and Reconstruction Agency (NRA). According to Radio Pakistan, this is a pre-requisite to benefit discussed bilateral relations. Yesterday, a minister said that “Initially the focus (of talks) from projects aimed at increasing Imran Khan said he had also the cabinet last Friday named a would be on the reduction of regional connectivity and resolu- invited the Indian prime minister earthquake jolts chief for the agency, giving it the tension and maintenance of calm tion of energy crisis”. to Pakistan during his recent visit green light to begin its work. on the Line of Control to provide He said major political parties, to India. The delays were due to wran- relief to the people living across including the Pakistan People’s Khan said meetings between gling between political parties, the LoC.” Party and Pakistan Tehreek-i- the heads of two countries will Afghanistan, Pakistan which frustrated many interna- He said as the dialogue pro- Insaf, had consensus on peace and have positive impact on bilateral tional donors. ceeds, all issues would be dis- enhanced people-to-people con- relations, adding that improve- KABUL: A 6.3-magnitude earth- tion with remote, mountainous Sherdhan Rai, minister for cussed. tacts between the two countries. ment in Pakistan-India ties was quake centred in the Hindu Kush villages is typically slow, and 12 information and communication The comprehensive dialogue Meanwhile, PPP chairman necessary for sustainable peace jolted Afghanistan and Paki- people were injured in the Afghan technology, said the NRA “will between Pakistan and India will Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Paki- in the region. stan, damaging homes and leav- province of Nangarhar. finalise the models for homes to eventually focus on all outstand- stan Tehreek-e-Insaf chief Imran IANS ing dozens of people injured just USGS had initially reported the be reconstructed and give finan- two months after a killer quake quake’s magnitude at 6.2. cial assistance to people to rebuild rattled the same mountainous In October, a 7.5-magnitude their homes,” region. quake in the same region ripped He also said the agency “will The tremor late on Friday hit across Pakistan and Afghanistan, be responsible to rebuild schools, at a depth of 203.5km, the US killing nearly 400 people and hospitals, monuments, roads and IS claims Bangladesh mosque attack Geological Survey said, sending flattening buildings in rugged office buildings in five years”. people fleeing shaking buildings terrain. UNICEF says more than DHAKA: The Islamic State atory term for Ahmadi Muslims, the shooting of three foreigners, into a bitterly cold night and For many in Pakistan, October’s 200,000 families affected by the group yesterday claimed respon- the monitoring organisation two of whom died, and the killing prompting fears of aftershocks. quake brought back traumatic tremors are still living in tempo- sibility for an attack at a mosque quoted IS as saying. of a Sufi Muslim shrine chief in The epicentre of the quake, memories of a 7.6-magnitude rary shelters, at an altitude above of the minority Ahmadi Muslims According to the statement November. which was felt as far away as quake that struck in October 1,500 metres where harsh winter in Bangladesh, in which the sus- “dozens” of worshippers were The jihadists also claimed an New Delhi, was in the remote 2005, killing more than 75,000 conditions will continue through pected bomber died and at least injured or killed at the mosque attack at a Shia mosque in the Afghan province of Badakhshan, people and displacing some 3.5 February. three others were injured. in the northwestern town of Bag- north of the country last month close to the Pakistani and Tajik million. The earthquake prompted US-based monitoring organisa- mara, but police said on Friday in which the muezzin was killed borders. Afghanistan is frequently hit squabbling Nepalese politicians to tion SITE reported that the IS only three had been injured. and three worshippers injured A pregnant woman was killed by earthquakes, especially in the united and in September adopt a group, which has claimed respon- The bomb blast at the Ahmadi- — though some experts have when a boulder fell on her house Hindu Kush mountain range, new constitution, which they had sibility for a number of recent yya Muslim Jamaat mosque in expressed scepticism about the in Peshawar and up to 50 others which lies near the junction of failed at doing for seven years. attacks in Bangladesh, said it had Bagmara, some 250km from the claims. were left injured in the north- the Eurasian and Indian tectonic But the charter triggered pro- targeted worshippers during Fri- capital Dhaka, occurred as nearly Police blame the homegrown western Pakistani city, officials plates. tests by ethnic Madhesi groups, day prayers. 100 people were gathered for Fri- militant group Jamayetul Muja- said. In Nepal a quake in April and who have blocked key trade cross- The bomber detonated an day prayers, police said. hideen Bangladesh (JMB) for the Initial information suggested at a strong aftershock in May killed ings with India, causing severe explosive belt at a mosque of the IS has claimed a series of recent recent violence. least 45 houses were damaged in more than 8,900 people. fuel shortages. “polytheist Qadiani sect,” a derog- attacks in Bangladesh, including AFP Badakhshan where communica- AFP REUTERS SUNDAY 27 DECEMBER 2015 10 VIEWS www.thepeninsulaqatar.com

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Editorial

Syrian peace talks Cartoon Arts International / The New York Times Syndicate

HE United Nations is finally working on a plan for a solution to the Syrian crisis. It hopes to convene peace talks between Syria’s government led by TPresident Bashar Al Assad and the opposition on January 25. This announcement came a day after the killing JFK killing sowed seeds of of a powerful rebel leader who supported negotiations. The death of opposition chief Zahran Alloush, 44, who was the chief of Jaish Al Islam (Army of Islam), the predominant opposition faction in the Eastern Ghouta rebel bastion east failure for gun-control of Damascus, also threatened to derail a plan to evacuate thousands of jihadists and civilians from southern Damascus. By Tim Jones in government, gun legislation failed. to 1973. He has a framed copy of the The UN peace talks plan comes very late, and Syria has In years since, the National Rifle Asso- 1968 law hanging on a wall in his Penn- plunged so deep into chaos that new developments on the hen a couple armed with ciation, which lobbied against the bills, sylvania Avenue office, along with a pen ground can effectively scupper peace talks. The UN has assault rifles slaughtered 14 has risen to become one of the strongest Johnson used to sign it. definitely been trying for a solution to the crisis, but those Wpeople at a holiday gather- lobbies in Washington. Bills to ban mail-order guns of the efforts didn’t carry enough heft and were not supported ing in San Bernardino, California, this Johnson took office after President type used to kill President Kennedy had month, US gun control advocates saw an John Kennedy was killed in November languished until 1968, he said, largely with the participation of major global powers. Official-level opportunity. President Barack Obama 1963 and was famous for his legendary due to opposition from the South and talks initiated by Syrian envoys appointed by the global lamented that “in America it’s way too powers of persuasion. He had historic West, a sentiment that continues today. agency never proceeded beyond a point, the differences and easy for dangerous people to get their victories on civil rights, anti-poverty Johnson’s push to license owners and intransigence of the parties involved being insurmountable. hands on a gun” and said making it programmes and health care for the register guns angered the National Rifle The death of the rebel leader, for example, has harder was the only right response. poor and elderly. On guns, however, he Association, setting in motion an endur- emboldened the Syrian government. Assad’s regime claimed Within a day, the Republican-con- was mostly thwarted. ing storm of resistance. trolled Senate rejected an expansion of Congress did approve the Gun Con- “This was their wake-up call,” said responsibility for the death, which was seen as dealing a background checks for gun buyers and trol Act of 1968, restricting mail-order Zelenko. “This marked the beginning of huge blow to the nearly five-year uprising and therefore defeated a law barring individuals on sales that had put the rifle in the hands the NRA really getting involved.” can complicate the fragile peace the terror watch list from purchasing of Kennedy’s assassin, Lee Harvey Another parallel involves how high a process. Syrians, the Arab world, firearms. Before the Christmas break, Oswald, five years earlier. As he signed priority gun control was and how strong Continuing and most of the major powers an effort to lift a 17- year-old ban on the law, Johnson railed against those a lobby backed it. Just as the Obama are demanding that the exit nearly all govern- who opposed his effort. administration is more focused on ter- ment research “If guns are to be kept out of the rorism and the economy, gun regulation developments of Assad is a must for peace in into gun violence hands of the criminal, out of the hands was never at center stage in Johnson’s on the ground Syria. But the expulsion of Assad was also defeated. of the insane, and out of the hands of legislative agenda. has become difficult with the The origins the irresponsible, then we must have “With gun regulation, it wasn’t like are likely to intervention of Russia in the war. Former officials of this familiar licensing,” Johnson said at the Octo- civil rights and voting rights,” Zelenko Any gains by the regime forces impasse lie in ber 1968 signing ceremony, words that said. “Churches played a very active and scholars say a congressional few US political leaders would utter in role in civil rights, and so did labour. affect the will only complicate Assad’s that the attempt battle nearly five public today. “The voices that blocked There wasn’t that kind of unified sup- outcome of the departure. decades ago fol- these safeguards were not the voices of port behind gun bills.” At the same time, there is in the late 1960s lowing some of the an aroused nation. They were the voices Indeed, the morning after the King planned UN no alternative to the peace most traumatic of a powerful lobby, a gun lobby.” assassination, Califano said Johnson told peace talks. talks. UN special envoy Staffan is instructive political assas- Obama’s regulatory aims are far less him it was an opportunity — for a bill de Mistura’s office said he has sinations in the ambitious — strengthening background banning housing discrimination. because even at a country’s history: checks for all gun sales, banning mili- “He said we’re going to get something “intensified efforts” to convene a president, his tary style assault weapons and limiting out of this tragedy,” Califano recalled talks on January 25, hopefully high point of trust brother and two magazines to a capacity of 10 rounds. Johnson saying. “We did not think about including the “broadest possible spectrum” of opposition in government, civil rights lead- He too has been consistently blocked. gun control at that point.” representatives. A statement said the UN envoy “counts ers. The White There are as many guns in the country Daniel Webster, director of the on full cooperation of all the relevant Syrian parties in this gun legislation House pushed — today as there are people. Johns Hopkins Center for Gun Policy process. Continuing developments on the ground should and failed — to Before passing that 1968 law, Con- and Research in Baltimore, said social failed. require that guns gress had little experience with gun con- changes in the 1960s produced fear, and not be allowed to derail it.” But despite his sincere wish, be licensed and trol. Two laws in the 1930s, in response that fed resistance to government regu- continuing developments on the ground are likely to affect gun owners regis- to gangland killings and urban violence, lation, including gun control. the outcome of the talks. The talks are the first step of tered right after the killings of Martin imposed taxes on gun manufacturers Gun sales are growing in the wake of an ambitious 18-month plan endorsed by the UN Security Luther King Jr and Robert Kennedy and governed the interstate commerce the recent shootings. Council to end Syria’s war, which has killed more than in 1968. of firearms. President Kennedy’s assas- “This is very much a fear-driven issue “The template was established in sination was followed by the murder of right now, and it convinces people that 250,000 people. the 1960s,” said Joseph Califano, chief civil-rights advocate Malcolm X in 1965. they have to carry guns themselves,” Jaish al-Islam was one of the most influential armed domestic affairs adviser to President Then came King in April 1968 and Rob- Webster said. groups invited to broad-based opposition talks in Riyadh Lyndon Johnson. “With all the clout we ert Kennedy two months later. “There’s a sense that government is earlier this month. Alloush’s death also appeared to halt had, we couldn’t do it.” “It was a big step to get anything,” ill-equipped to make us safe, that you the planned evacuation of some 4,000 people, half of them Former officials and scholars say that said Benjamin Zelenko, a Washington can’t count on government to do much jihadists, from Damascus’ southern districts on Saturday the attempt in the late 1960s is instruc- attorney who served as counsel to the of anything.” . tive because even at a high point of trust House Judiciary Committee from 1962 BLOOMBERG The other side Quote of Jinnah’s vision the day HE FREQUENT projection In February 1948, in a radio broad- nation and torn asunder the very fabric “You will be making the greatest mis- of Mohammad Ali Jinnah’s cast, the Quaid declared that Pakistan of society. take if you allow yourself to be exploited August 11 address to the was not going to be “a theocratic state While terrorism and armed rebel- by one political party or another ... Your Constituent Assembly creates — to be ruled by priests with a divine lion are the visible manifestation of main occupation should be ... to devote Tan impression that this is the Quaid’s mission”. Non-Muslim minorities, he this reactionary radicalism, the more your attention to your studies.” only speech that gives us his vision of said, would “enjoy the same rights and insidious form of it is to be found in In contrast, the standards of edu- Pakistan. On the contrary, throughout privileges as any other citizens and will the silent spread of the virus of medi- cation have gone down because the It is important that his political career, Jinnah made it play their rightful part in the affairs of aeval intolerance at all levels of society academia and student bodies are under repeatedly clear that he visualised Pakistan”. — even at places where it shouldn’t the influence of religiously inspired we have more control Pakistan as a democracy guaranteeing It is difficult to be precise if we try to be, for instance, institutes of higher hard-line elements whose brainwash- again over who is fundamental rights to all its citizens determine exactly when retrogressive learning, cultural organisations and ing techniques are no more confined irrespective of their beliefs. forces found an environment conducive the arts. to madressahs. Is there a silver lining in entering and leaving As he told a rally in Chittagong in to their growth. But the consequences The harm done to education is a the cloud? It is hard to see one. Those March 1948, the denial of these rights of Pakistan’s involvement in the US-led subject unto itself, but what is happen- at the helm are seen as largely corrupt Europe. in a united India was one of the reasons ‘jihad’ against the Soviet occupation of ing is the consequences of what Jinnah and lack the fundamental attributes of why South Asian Muslims had strug- Afghanistan unleashed forces that have had expressly warned students against leadership. Frank-Walter Steinmeier gled to create a country of their own. over the last 36 years traumatised the in a speech at Dacca in March 1948: DAWN German Foreign Minister SUNDAY 27 DECEMBER 2015 OPINION www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 11 China’s Central Asia advance ruffles Russia

waves. The Chinese language, by contrast, is nowhere to be seen or heard. Even India has more A shift has shaken up the Russian leadership, which is cultural resonance through Bol- lywood films, says political scien- watching China’s advance across the steppe with little tist Dossym Satpayev in Almaty. What Beijing can offer is infra- apprehension. Moscow and Beijing may speak the structure loans and investment. It has been careful to frame its language of partnership these days, but Central Asia plans as more than just a “road” — where Kazakhstan’s natural has emerged as a source of wariness and mistrust. resources are extracted, and Chinese goods waved through on their way to Europe — but as a “belt” of economic prosperity. By Simon Denyer jing’s grander commercial plans Belt. But this pearl is distinctly But private Chinese companies — to export its industrial overca- lopsided: On the Kazakh side of and ordinary Chinese traders say lowly but surely, a four- pacity and find new markets for the zone, opposite all those gleam- they have yet to reap the rewards, lane highway is begin- its goods — will struggle to find ing malls, a single small building, as the small Kazakh economy is ning to take shape on the wings in these poor and sparsely in the shape of a nomad’s tent or shrinking under the weight of Ssparsely populated Cen- populated lands. yurt, sits on an expanse of waste- falling commodity prices and Rus- tral Asian steppe. Soviet-era cars, In September 2013, Chinese land where a trickle of people stop sia’s economic decline. trucks and ageing long-distance President Xi Jinping chose Kaza- to buy biscuits and camel’s milk. Meanwhile, Russia is playing buses weave past modern yellow khstan’s sparkling, modern new The Silk Road slogan may be A general view of the centre of Kazakhstan’s capital Astana. interference, they say, imposing bulldozers, cranes and tower- capital, Astana, to announce what new, but many of its goals are not. new import restrictions under the ing construction drills, labour- has since become a cornerstone of Beijing has long been working to Eurasian Economic Union in an ing under Chinese supervision his new, assertive foreign policy, secure a share of the region’s rich Pacific Program at the Carnegie into its embrace by establishing apparent attempt to keep Chinese to build a road that could one a Silk Road Economic Belt that natural resources to fuel China’s Moscow Center. “The feeling was, a Eurasian Economic Union, with goods from flooding the region. day stretch from eastern Asia to would revive ancient trading industrial economy; it is building ‘It’s a project to steal Central Asia Kazakhstan a founding member. Yang Shu, director of the Insti- Western Europe. routes to bring new prosperity to a network of security coopera- from us, they want to exploit our But even as Moscow moved to tute of Central Asian Studies at This small stretch of blacktop, a long-neglected but strategically tion in Central Asia as a bulwark economic difficulties to be really protect its turf, the realisation Lanzhou University, calls Horgos running past potato fields, bare important region at the heart of against Islamist extremism that present in the region.’” was dawning that Russia lacked “a mistake,” because so few people dun-coloured rolling hills and the Eurasian continent. could leak into China’s restive Russia had long blocked China’s the financial resources to provide are in its vicinity. Trade between fields of grazing cattle, is a sym- Bound together by 2,000 years western province of Xinjiang, attempts to create an infrastruc- Central Asia the economic sup- the two nations declined 40 per- bol of China’s march westward, an of exchanges dating to the West- and it wants to create alterna- ture development bank under the port it needed. cent in the first six months of this advance into Central Asia that is ern Han Dynasty, sharing a 1,100- tive trading routes to Europe that auspices of the Shanghai Coopera- After the breakdown of rela- year, to $5.4bn, just a quarter of steadily wresting the region from mile border, the two nations, Xi bypass Asia’s narrow, congested tion Organization, a regional body, tions with the West over Ukraine 1 percent of China’s global trade. Russia’s embrace. said, now faced a “golden oppor- shipping lanes. fearing it would become a tool for in 2014, and the imposition of Nevertheless, experts agree Here the oil and gas pipelines, tunity” to develop their economies Under the Silk Road plan, Chinese economic expansion. Bei- sanctions, the dogmatic view that that China’s Silk Road plan has as well as the main roads and and deepen their friendship. China also is promising to spend jing responded by sidestepping Russia had to be the top economic immeasurably more clout than the railway lines, always pointed At the China-Kazakhstan bor- hundreds of millions of dollars to Moscow, establishing an Asian dog in Central Asia was ques- the American New Silk Road north to the heart of the old der, at a place known as Horgos build new infrastructure here, Infrastructure Investment Bank tioned, and then finally, grudg- plan advanced by then-Secretary Soviet Union. Today, those links to the Chinese and Khorgos to and hopes to reap benefits of in June with a $100bn capital base. ingly abandoned. of State Hillary Rodham Clinton are beginning to point toward the Kazakhs, a massive concrete its own: to create new markets China has overtaken Russia It was impossible, Gabuyev in 2011 that was meant to bind China. immigration and customs building for Chinese goods, especially for to become Central Asia’s big- said, so Russia’s leaders decided Afghanistan to Central Asia but “This used to be Russia’s back- is being completed to mark that heavy industries such as steel and gest trade partner and lender. to divide the labour: Russia would barely got off the ground, or Rus- yard,” said Raffaello Pantucci, friendship, rising from the wind- cement that have suffered as the Pipelines transport increasing provide security, while China sia’s own pivot to Asia, mired in director of International Security swept valley floor like a mammoth Chinese economy has slowed. amounts of Kazakh oil to China would bring its financial muscle. economic woes and bureaucratic Studies at the Royal United Serv- Communist-style spaceship. But the scene at Horgos under- and vast quantities of Turkmen In May, Xi and Putin signed a inertia. ices Institute in London, “but it is A short distance away, China lines the fact that the economies gas east through Horgos. That treaty designed to balance the two But Tom Miller, at a consult- increasingly coming into China’s is building an almost entirely of China’s Central Asian neigh- has served to undermine Russia’s nations’ interests in Central Asia, ing firm called Gavekal Drago- thrall.” new city, apartment block by bours are simply too small to pro- negotiating position when it has and integrate the Eurasian Eco- nomics, argues that as Beijing’s It is a shift that has shaken up apartment block, alongside a vide much of a stimulus to China’s tried to sell its own gas to China. nomic Union and the Silk Road. investment and financial ties the Russian leadership, which is two-square-mile free-trade zone, giant, slowing economy. At the same time, however, China’s expanding influence has with Central Asia deepen, “its watching China’s advance across where traders sit in new multi- China’s ambitious Central President Xi has worked over- provoked mixed feelings in many political influence will inevitably the steppe with little apprehen- storey shopping malls hawking Asian plans did not go down well, time to calm Russian fears, reas- Asian states, has used “velvet strengthen,” too. Beijing’s strate- sion. Moscow and Beijing may such items as iPhones and fur at least initially, in Moscow. suring his counterpart Vladimir gloves” in its dealings with Cen- gists studiously avoid any talk of speak the language of partnership coats. “When China announced its Putin that Beijing has no plans tral Asia, said Nargis Kassenova, playing a “New Great Game” in these days, but Central Asia has This is reputed to have been Silk Road plan in Kazakhstan, it to counter his country’s political an international relations expert the heart of Asia - but they look emerged a source of wariness and a seventh-century stop for Silk was met with a lot of scepticism and security dominance in Cen- at KIMEP University in Almaty. set to win it nonetheless,” Miller mistrust. Road merchants. Today, the Peo- and even fear by the Russian lead- tral Asia. About a quarter of Kazakhstan’s said. For China, the region offers ple’s Daily newspaper calls it “the ership,” said Alexander Gabuyev, In 2014, Russia attempted to citizens are ethnic Russians, while rich natural resources, but Bei- pearl” on the Silk Road Economic head of the Russia in the Asia draw the region more closely Russian media dominate the air- THE WASHINGTON POST Lessons in empathy on a Kenya bus Time for collaboration

By Colbert I King when he died in 1924. Harry Byrd — Virginia senator and on gun research story this week out of governor — was memorialised Kenya about compas- with school namings for hav- Asion, conviction and ing served the nation. By Jay Dickey and scientific research helped reduce the courage is the perfect antidote But for a moment, try to Mark Rosenberg motor vehicle death rate in the United to a poisonous year around empathise with those of us States and save hundreds of thousands the world. who saw and were disadvan- wenty years ago, one of us was of lives — all without getting rid of cars. On Monday, the Al Shabaab taged by another side of those director of the Centers for Dis- For example, research led to the devel- terrorist group attacked and heroes. Tease Control and Prevention’s opment of simple four-foot barricades forced a bus to stop in Man- Those holding them up to National Center for Injury Prevention dividing oncoming traffic that are pre- dera, Kenya. The terrorists be honoured knew that: “Cur- and Control, supporting research to build venting injuries and saving many lives. boarded the bus and ordered ley” Byrd opposed admitting an evidence base to advance the science We can do the same with respect to the Muslim and Christian black students to Maryland of gun-violence prevention. The other of firearm-related deaths, reducing their passengers to separate. Their until a court order forced us was a Republican representative from numbers while preserving the rights of A file picture of Kenyan university students demonstrating in Nairobi intent was to murder the their acceptance. Arkansas determined to dismantle that gun owners. against an attack by Islamist gunmen at Garissa University. Christians. Al Shabaab had Wilson was a white effort because conservatives had con- If we are to be successful, those of us done this before, when it supremacist who imposed cluded that it was aimed at gun control on opposite sides of this issue will have to killed 148 in Garissa, Kenya, hatred is inspiring. But brav- and wish to be associated with more segregation on blacks in and not gun violence. do a better job of respecting, understand- in April after asking their ery in Kenya is more than an those being honoured. the District during his presi- Ultimately, the House of Representa- ing and working with each other. In the religion. Many of those vic- example of followers of Islam What, you may ask, do dency and admitted no blacks tives voted to insert language into the area of firearms injuries, collaboration tims were Christians. defending people who hold dif- Muslims standing against to Princeton when he was the CDC’s appropriations bill that suc- has a special meaning. It will require real It also did it in November ferent religious beliefs. terrorism in Kenya have to school’s president. ceeded in prompting the CDC to bring partnership on the design of the research 2014, when it killed 28 non- A larger lesson needs learn- do with the American attach- Harry Byrd fought to gun-violence research to a halt. The law we do because while we often hear about Muslim passengers on a bus ing in this fractured world. It ment to naming public places preserve segregation to the stated that no CDC funds “may be used “common-sense gun laws,” common sense travelling to Nairobi. involves trying to understand after the likes of Harry C point of shutting down pub- to advocate or promote gun control.” One is not enough to both keep us safe and to But this time was different. the human condition of oth- “Curley” Byrd, Woodrow Wil- lic schools that attempted to of us subsequently was fired because of protect the Second Amendment. From a Newsweek account: ers. Put yourself in their posi- son, Harry F Byrd Sr (no kin integrate after the Supreme his commitment to gun-violence preven- There is urgency to our task. Both of us “‘We even gave some non- tion, walk in their shoes, bear to “Curley”), JEB Stuart and Court’s 1954 decision in Brown tion research. The other saw the CDC’s now believe strongly that federal funding Muslims our religious attire what they are bearing. Robert E Lee? vs Board of Education. abandonment of its commitment to this for research into gun-violence prevention to wear in the bus so that they Muslims on that bus in “Curley” Byrd, Wilson and Those with power to name research as a successful effort to pro- should be dramatically increased. But the would not be identified eas- Mandera felt what the Chris- Harry Byrd didn’t clamour for knew that these men — along tect the Second Amendment right to language accompanying this appropria- ily. We stuck together tightly,’ tian passengers must have these honours. Many of their with others who led the bear arms. When we met, at a congres- tion should mirror the language already Abdi Mohamud Abdi, a Mus- been feeling, their fear and naming ceremonies took place war to preserve slavery or sional appropriations hearing in 1996, we in the law: “No funds shall be used to lim passenger, told Reuters. pain. Those who put their own long after they were dead and who viewed black people as fiercely opposed each other’s positions. advocate or promote gun control.” This ‘The militants threatened to lives on the line were driven gone. unworthy of sharing schools, But over years of communicating, we prohibition can help to reassure support- shoot us but we still refused by empathy. The inscriptions were writ- water fountains, bathrooms came to see that, while we had differ- ers of the Second Amendment that the and protected our brothers It seems in short supply ten because contemporary US and dining establishments, ences, we also shared values. We became CDC will use the money for important and sisters. Finally they gave today. This lack of empathy leaders believed those men or of holding the same jobs as colleagues, and we became friends. We research and not for gun-control advo- up and left but warned that plays out in ways sometimes were icons who deserved to whites — treated black peo- have argued with each other and learned cacy. However, it is also important for they would be back.’ more obvious to some than be memorialised. ple unfairly. Yet those with the much from each other. We both belong all to understand that this wording does “The local governor, Ali others. And, to be sure, “Curley” power to name didn’t, and still to the National Rifle Association, and we not constitute an outright ban on federal Roba, confirmed the account I have in mind our symbols Byrd — the late University don’t, see or respect the other both believe in the Second Amendment. gun-violence prevention research. It is in an interview with Daily of American values: public of Maryland football player, side of our history. We have also come to see that gun- critical that the appropriation contain Nation, a Kenyan publication. school names, street names, coach, professor and presi- With their lack of empathy, violence research can be created, organ- enough money to let science thrive and ‘They refused to separate memorials and the figures we dent after whom the school’s they cling to the symbols and ised and conducted with two objectives: help us determine what works. from non-Muslims and told have chosen to commemo- football stadium was named heritages of a racially divided first, to preserve the rights of law-abiding So both sides — gun rights advocates the attack[ers] to kill all pas- rate and what they tell us (the university board finally America, revealing their citizens and legal gun owners and, sec- and gun-control advocates — need to sengers or leave,’ Roba said. about our racial divisions, as voted this month to change indifference to the feelings ond, to make our homes and communities give quite a bit to get to the heart of this There were 62 passengers on explored by Derek H Alder- it) — did much to develop the of people not like themselves safer. Well-structured research can be problem. If we yield to fatalism and say board, according to the paper.” man of East Carolina Univer- school during his tenure. — a condition mercifully not conducted to develop technologies and nothing will work, we will continue to Muslims do stand up sity in his 2002 paper “School Woodrow Wilson — Prin- found in the Muslims on that identify ways to achieve both objectives. watch the problem of gun violence grow against terrorism. In these Names as Cultural Arenas.” ceton president, 28th US bus in Kenya. A bright spot in We can get there only through research. and grow. We can’t afford to not even try. intolerant times, the actions Well, “we” is too broad a term. president, New Jersey gover- a darkening world. Our nation does not have to choose We have too much riding on this — all of some Muslims in the face of Narrow that down to the nor, Nobel Peace Prize win- between reducing gun-violence injuries of us do. Al Shabaab’s vicious religious Americans who identify with ner — left a lasting legacy THE WASHINGTON POST and safeguarding gun ownership. Indeed, THE WASHINGTON POST SUNDAY 27 DECEMBER 2015 12 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com ASIA / INDIA

Precarious perch CPI-M plenum Modi urged to build all set to begin today

KOLKATA: Months before on Pakistan visit the crucial assembly polls in its erstwhile citadels West Bengal and Kerala, the CPI-M begins a Go beyond VIP diplomacy, says CPI-M leader Yechury five-day plenum here from today to streamline and strengthen KOLKATA: Prime Minister on both sides to sustain dialogue, nations should continue and I the party organisation against Narendra Modi’s visit to Paki- he observed that initially India’s express my satisfaction over the the backdrop of a “stagnation if stan has to be taken forward and stance was to discuss only terror- recent developments,” he added. not decline” in membership and moved beyond “VIP diplomacy”, ism and now “it has been agreed Modi returned to Delhi on Fri- depletion of its electoral strength. CPI-M general secretary Sitaram to talk on everything including day from Kabul with a dramatic The December 27-31 plenum, Yechury said yesterday. the Jammu and Kashmir issue”. surprise stopover in Lahore where that begins with an open session “Modi’s sudden visit to Paki- “So this suddenly dropping by he and his Pakistani counterpart at the sprawling Brigade Parade stan is welcome and such talks Pakistan is good. But the talks Nawaz Sharif vowed to pursue the ground on Sunday, would also lay should be sustained. But now it should sustain,” Yechury told the derailed bilateral peace process. Workers adjust electricity cables set up temporarily on the banks of the stress on deepening the party’s is a kind of VIP diplomacy, but media ahead of the party plenum Meanwhile, Modi yesterday river Ganga in preparation for the annual religious fair of Magh Mela, in links with the masses and dis- should not be confined in the VIP scheduled to begin today. got an open endorsement from Allahabad yesterday. The fair is held every year during the Hindu month cuss ways to attract the youth, level in the coming days,” Yechury Meanwhile, Expressing satis- the Samajwadi Party for his brief of Magh, which begins in mid-January and ends in mid-February. amid reports that majority of the said. faction over revival of the peace stopover in Pakistan. party membership constitutes old On Friday, Modi took everyone process between India and Paki- Samajwadi Party’s national people. Over 400 leaders would be by surprise by flying to Lahore to stan, senior BJP leader L K general secretary and Rajya attending the plenum. meet his Pakistani counterpart Advani yesterday said initiatives Sabha member Ram Gopal Yadav “We are meeting in this plenum Nawaz Sharif while on his way by former prime minister Atal praised Modi’s initiative, saying to strengthen our party organisa- home from Kabul. Bihari Vajpayee should be taken it was “a praiseworthy gesture”. Delhi transport tion in the background of having “It happened at such a point of forward by the Narendra Modi Pakistan was India’s immediate noted in our party Congress our time when the Pakistan cricket government. neighbour and hence cannot be persistent weaknesses in terms team is not being allowed to play “Efforts initiated by Vajpayee ji wished away, Yadav told report- of stagnation if not decline in the in India, an artiste like Ghulam should be taken forward by Modiji ers in Saifai. “Open dialogues is officials suspended strength of our party and mass Ali is not being allowed to per- and other leaders in the govern- the only way forward to a peaceful organisation membership, its form in the country. This VIP ment for improving the relations future,” he said. Modi “has given uneven composition and a sharp level diplomacy should not end between both countries and get all the right signals from this visit decline in our party’s electoral here and it should be carried for- rid of terrorism,” Advani said and has laid out the prospects of for corruption strength,” said party general sec- ward to people to people contact,” here, reacting to Modi’s surprise a meaningful dialogue in future”, retary Sitaram Yechury, who took Yechury noted. visit to Pakistan. the leader said. NEW DELHI: The Delhi govern- yesterday, leading to the suspen- charge earlier this year. Stressing that the onus was “Friendship between both the IANS ment yesterday suspended three sion of the three officials. The Communist Party of India- transport department officials Reacting to the issue, Delhi Marxist had held its previous over alleged corruption in issuing BJP chief Upadhyay asked Rai to plenum exactly 37 years back -- fresh Letters Of Intents (LOIs) for resign. “We have requested Lieu- December 27-31 -- at Salkia in three-wheelers. BJP’s Delhi unit tenant Governor Najeeb Jung to neighbouring Howrah district. chief Satish Upadhyay demanded seek a report from the transport However, that plenum was held Six booked over state Transport Minister Gopal department on the issue and the in a vastly different situation. Rai’s resignation over the alleged investigation should be handed The first non-congress gov- journalist’s meet auto-rickshaw permit scam. over to the Anti-Corruption ernment formed by the Janata The three officials — Deputy Branch,” Upadhyay said. Party -- with whom the CPI-M with terrorist Commissioner (auto-rickshaw Upadhyay said Kejriwal was had good relations at the national unit) Roy Biswas, inspector Man- also involved in the scam and the level -- had then assumed power CHANDIGARH: The Punjab ish Puri, and Anil Yadav, a clerk — BJP would protest against him on at the centre after the Emergency Police have registered a case were placed under suspension with Monday at the Delhi Secretariat. days. against six prison officials in immediate effect after a high-level “The Kejriwal government is The CPI-M was also in the Patiala following a recent assault meeting chaired by Chief Minister completely involved in corruption ascendancy as it led three state on a senior journalist inside the Arvind Kejriwal yesterday morn- and it has increased so much that governments in West Bengal, jail premises by a death row ing. this government is playing fraud Kerala and Tripura, and emerged convict. The officials have been Transport Minister Gopal Rai with its own supporters, the auto as the strongest Left communist booked for allowing the meet. said in a statement he received drivers of Delhi,” he said. force in the country. The unauthorised meeting was some complaints on Wednesday He said that previously corrup- Thus a main point of discussion held between senior journalist over irregularities in issuance of tion was committed through touts at the Salkia plenum was how to Kanwar Sandhu and Khalistan LOIs to auto drivers at the trans- in the transport department, but handle the growth of the party supporter and terrorist Balwant port department’s Burari author- now their place has been taken by and its mass organisations and Singh Rajoana, a convict in the ity. “I held a meeting with the joint volunteers and legislators of the foray into new areas. assassination case of former Pun- commissioner (transport) and AAP. IANS jab chief minister Beant Singh. other senior officers on the next Delhi’s ruling Aam Aadmi People pour milk into the sea as an offering during a ceremony for the Sandhu had gone to meet day (last Thursday), and issued Party (AAP) backed the govern- victims of the December 26, 2004 earthquake and tsunami, at Marina Beach Rajoana inside the Patiala cen- directions to enquire into the mat- ment’s move. Its media coordina- in Chennai yesterday. tral jail on December 19 without ter,” Rai said. tor Deepak Bajpai said: “We are any authorization from senior Kejriwal received a text message so proud of the government that Natesan’s party prison officers. He was allegedly from some auto-rickshaw drivers it swiftly takes action against cor- assaulted by Rajoana following an regarding certain irregularities ruption. The CM just got a mes- holds talks argument. in distribution of LoIs on Friday sage regarding the corruption Father hopes son lost The officials were booked for evening. being done in the department with BJP allowing the meeting and trying The chief minister convened a and he swiftly acted against peo- to cover up the same. meeting with his cabinet ministers ple involved.” ALAPPUZHA: The first round IANS and senior government officials IANS of talks between the Kerala unit in tsunami will return of the BJP and Vellapalli Nate- CHENNAI: A former IAF officer of his son and now has to save for san’s newly-floated political party whose only son disappeared after his dauther’s marriage. for working together took place the 2004 tsunami hopes to find The daughter is studying here. yesterday at the Hindu Ezhava him in the next one year start- Venkataraman works as a security leader’s residence here. ing from January 2016 on the manager in a private company. ‘Journalists’ profiting from govt ads Newly appointed state BJP strength of astrological advice. The day after tsunami hit the president Kummanam Rajas- For the past 11 years, M Venka- Car Nicobar, the Indian Air Force BHOPAL: The number of women in good humour with plenty of he or she will lose their job or get ekheran and his predecessor V taraman has been searching across (IAF) sent all its personnel posted journalists in Bhopal can leave advertisements, it does not miss a transferred. Muraleedharan were engaged in the country for V Arvind, who was there to Tambaram near Chennai. one surprised, but most of them chance to affect the sharpness of Many of the women-operated the talks with Natesan. separated from him by the waves Venkataraman does not blame have never been spotted cover- any journalist who may have the websites, which the Public Rela- “There is no untouchability which hit Car Nicobar Islands on the IAF for forcing everyone to ing any event, as they instead run potential to highlight the system’s tion Department has revealed, towards the BJP and the people December 26, 2004. leave Car Nicobar as the situation websites which attract advertise- weaknesses,” said senior journal- are either being operated from of Kerala are certainly looking for “Astrologers have predicted that at that time there demanded such ments worth millions of rupees. ist Bharat Sharma. residential addresses or multiple a change. Talks will continue and my son would come back between an action. Subsequently, when he The public relations depart- There are many journalists websites have been registered at would now be held at different January 11, 2016 and January 11, went back, he was told his son was ment of the Madhya Pradesh who run websites, beside being the same address. levels,” Natesan told reporters. 2017. We are all hoping it hap- spotted in a relief camp in Port government has liberally helped employed with media organisa- Interestingly, hardly any one of However, a formal announce- pens,” Venkataraman said. Blair. these ‘women journalists’. tions. On failing to collect govern- the active women journalists are ment of the the two parties work- Since 2004, every year on this At the relief camp the dis- In the last three years, adver- ment advertisements themselves, getting the advertisements. ing together is yet to come. day, Venkataraman has made it a traught father was told that his tisements worth millions of they launch websites in a family Congress legislator Bala Bach- On December 5, Natesan con- habit to go to a temple and pray son Arvind was handed over to rupees have been given to around member’s name that ultimately chan said it is feared that the cluded his statewide tour and to God to help him locate his son. “two uncles”. 200 websites, more than 50 of draw government advertisements. state government might be spend- launched his political party, Bhar- “To the best of my ability I have “As per my son’s horoscope, he them owned by women, Madhya This is one reason why even big ing money on bogus journalists. ath Dharma Jana Sena. tried and I am still trying to trace will live for more than 75 years. Pradesh Public Relations Minis- issues fail to figure in the local According to public rela- State BJP leaders took the lead my son,” he said. He has a college- So I am confident the tsunami did ter Rajendra Shukla told in the media. tions office sources, Rs25,000 to for a meeting between BJP presi- going daughter too. not kill him,” Venkataraman said. state assembly recently. According to Sharma, anyone Rs50,000 are spent each month dent Amit Shah and Natesan a Venkataraman said he had “First the government keeps refusing to play along is told by on the advertisements. few months back. spent nearly Rs 800,000 in search IANS the owners of media websites government-linked persons that IANS IANS

Kankaria Carnival Akali Dal, AAP leaders join Congress in Punjab CHANDIGARH: A day after Gurdwara Parbandhak Commit- Amarinder told media in Chan- government there as it has not outspoken Congress leader tee member Inder Mohan Singh. digarh, adding he would seek fulfilled a single promise it had Sukhpal Khaira joined the Aam The former Punjab chief min- that the names of candidates be made to the people,” Amarinder Aadmi Party (AAP) in Punjab, ister also said the Punjab unit of announced at least six months in Singh said. the opposition Congress claimed the Congress party will press for advance. He refuted allegations of the that many leaders of the ruling the early announcement of can- Flanked by senior party lead- AAP leaders that the Congress Shiromani Akali Dal and AAP didates for the assembly elections ers including former union min- leadership had an “understanding” had come into its fold. scheduled to be held in February- ister Manish Tewari, Jagmeet with the ruling Akali Dal. Punjab Congress president March 2017. Singh Brar, Laal Singh and Sunil He also sought to apologise that Amarinder Singh announced He said the state unit would be Jakhar, Amarinder Singh said that senior Congress leader and former that those who joined included 31 reconstituted and the announce- the Akali Dal-BJP government in MP Jagmeet Brar was not invited leaders and workers from Akali ment would be made soon. Punjab was on its way out in the to address a big rally that the Con- Dal and 21 from AAP and their “The state unit will press for state. gress party organised in Bathinda supporters. The Akali Dal lead- the early announcement of can- He added that AAP’s popularity earlier this month. ers were from Sangrur and Moga didates for the assembly elections in Punjab was only hype. “I apologise to him for this,” districts. scheduled to be held in 2017. The “The AAP does not stand any Amarinder Singh said, with Brar Speaking to reporters here, PCC (Pradesh Congress Commit- chance in Punjab. The people of seated next to him at the press The Kankaria Lake is lit up during the inauguration of the seven-day-long he said members of the Akali tee) was being reconstituted and Delhi are feeling disappointed conference. Kankaria Carnival, in the western city of Ahmedabad. Dal included former Shiromani it will be announced very soon,” and disillusioned with the AAP IANS SUNDAY 27 DECEMBER 2015 EUROPE / AMERICAS www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 13

Fire at Texas Germany wants more border controls mosque, foul Foreign minister speaks after reports of IS militants carrying fake passports surface play suspected

BERLIN: Europe needs to tants may enter undetected category as suspected terrorists der agency, and an EU agreement ments yesterday, a spokesman for WASHINGTON: US authori- regain control of its borders, among the influx. and said many militants came offering incentives to Turkey to the European Commission said ties yesterday were investigat- Germany’s foreign minister was On Tuesday, German media from Europe. help stem the flow of refugees, were the proposed European border ing a suspicious fire at a mosque quoted yesterday as saying, after quoted Bavaria’s Interior Minis- “However, irrespective of this, important building blocks towards and coastguard controls “aim pre- in Texas, weeks after a mass reports that forged Syrian pass- ter as saying that refugees with it is important that we have more better frontier control. cisely at strengthening the EU’s shooting in California by a Mus- ports are in the hands of Islamic fake Syrian passports have dis- control again over who is enter- Earlier this month, the Euro- external borders”. lim couple that sparked fears of State militants. appeared in Germany and there ing and leaving Europe,” Stein- pean Union said it would nearly On the issue of faked passports, a backlash against members of More than a million refugees, are grounds for suspicion that meier said in an interview with treble its spending on fron- the spokesman said “all third their faith. many fleeing war and violence they may have had contact with newspapers in the Funke Medien tier defence and create a new country nationals should be veri- No one was hurt in the blaze in the Middle East, have arrived Islamic State militants. Group. 1,500-strong rapid reaction force fied against relevant databases at the Masjid mosque in Houston in Germany this year. Since last Foreign Minister Frank-Wal- He added that a suggestion by the under proposals to tackle the when crossing the EU’s external that broke out on Friday after- month’s Paris attacks, concern ter Steinmeier warned against European Commission to expand migration crisis. borders”. noon and destroyed the interior has grown that Islamist mili- lumping refugees in the same the powers of the EU’s Frontex bor- Asked about the German com- REUTERS of the small house of worship located in a shopping mall, local media reported. The fire had “multiple points of origin” and “appears suspicious,” a spokeswoman for the Bureau of Over 100,000 displaced Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives told local media. The Council on American- Islamic Relations urged authori- in Latin America floods ties to probe possible foul play. “Because of the recent spike in ASUNCION/MONTEVIDO: have been killed by trees falling in hate incidents targeting mosques More than 100,000 people have the storms that caused the flood- nationwide, we urge law enforce- had to evacuate from their homes ing, local media reported. There ment authorities to investigate a in the bordering areas of Para- was no official death toll yet. possible bias motive for this fire,” guay, Uruguay, Brazil and Argen- In Alberdi, 120 kilometers south the executive director of the tina due to severe flooding in the of Asuncion, the government rec- group’s Houston chapter, Musta- wake of heavy summer rains ommended that 7,000 more fami- faa Carroll, said in a statement. brought on by El Niño, authori- lies living along the banks of the “Officials are checking surveil- ties said yesterday. River Paraguay evacuate. lance video and say the cause of In the worse affected country, More than 9,000 people in Uru- the fire is ‘suspicious,’” the state- Paraguay, around 90,000 people in guay also had to flee their homes, ment said. The FBI is also look- the area around the capital city according to the national Emer- ing into the incident. of Asuncion have been evacuated, gency Office, which added that it AFP the municipal Emergency Office expected water levels to remain A flooded area in Falcon, 42km west from Asuncion, in the Paraguay-Argentina border, yesterday. Flooding left said. Many are poor families liv- at their current level for several five people dead and driving almost 150,000 from their homes. ing in precarious housing along days before subsiding. the banks of the River Paraguay. “The flooding is caused by the start of summer ... but we could (WMO), said last month. plicated months, the consequences The Paraguayan government El Niño weather phenomenon,” not know how much.” In northern Argentina, around will be serious,” said Ricardo Russia to set up has declared a state of emergency Uruguay Emergency Office Chief This year’s “El Nino,” is the 20,000 people have had to aban- Colombi, the governor of the Cor- in Asuncion and seven regions of Fernando Traversa said. “We worst in more than 15 years, the don their homes, the government rientes region, after flying over the counter-terrorism the country to free up funds to knew it would have its strongest UN weather agency, the World said yesterday. affected areas. help those affected. Several people impact towards the end of spring, Meteorological Organisation “We are going to have a few com- REUTERS units on coasts MOSCOW: Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered coun- ter-terrorism operational head- quarters to be set up in several Migrants go on rampage after man stabbed to death in Spain coastal areas, the state-run RIA news agency quoted the Kremlin as saying yesterday. MADRID: African migrants class neighbourhood of Cortijos Police found the body of the Garcia Lopez, told Cadena Ser. migrants as vegetable and fruit The units are to be set in rioted in a southern Spanish de Marin. man from Guinea-Bissau on a “At this moment the situation labourers. It also relies on tour- Kaspiysk on the Caspian Sea, beach city on Friday, setting fire “Garbage bins are burned, cars street in Roquetas del Mar in is back to normal,” he said. ism but the jobless rate in the Murmansk in Russia’s north-west to garbage bins and cars, after have been burned, windows have the early hours of Friday. Police Police would remain at the province stand at 31 percent, and in Petropavlovsk-Kamchat- a man from Guinea-Bissau was been shattered,” he told radio suspect the man was stabbed fol- scene throughout the night and much higher than the already sky and Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk on stabbed to death, local officials news station Cadena Ser. lowing a dispute over a traffic for the next few days to prevent high national rate of 21 percent. Russia’s eastern coast, Interfax said yesterday. Local online newspaper Ideal accident, local media reported any renewal of unrest, he added. In 2008, African migrants in news agency said. Manolo Garcia, a city councillor published a photo of a garbage yesterday. No one was injured in the riot Roquetas del Mar set fire to cars Putin also ordered a simi- in Roquetas del Mar in the prov- container engulfed in flames in About 30-40 people had taken and no arrests were made, Lopez and houses, and attacked police lar operation to be set up in — ince of Almeria, said the killing the middle of a street near a part in the unrest but police said. and firefighters with stones, after the peninsula Russia annexed of the 41-year-old man in the city pharmacy as well as a video of brought the situation under con- The province of Almeria is a 28-year-old Senegalese man was from Ukraine in 2014, the news led to protests which descended man pushing a garbage container trol, assistant deputy of national home to a sea of plastic green- stabbed to death. agency added. into violence in the working onto a burning car. government in Almeria, Andres houses that employ many AFP REUTERS

European capitals Residents struggle to warned of possible attack: recover from storm Austria police CHICAGO: Millions of residents ment Chief Charles Gordon said. in the southern United States “We have three houses that col- VIENNA: Vienna police said struggled yesterday to recover lapsed.” No one died, but Gordon yesterday a “friendly” intelligence from the deadly storms and floods said victims were rescued from service has warned numerous that struck the region over the the debris. European capitals of the possibil- past days. Mississippi Governor Phil ity of a shooting or bomb attack At least 15 people have been Bryant and Georgia Governor before the New Year, pushing killed in the states of Mississippi, Nathan Deal also declared states police across the continent to Tennessee and Arkansas since of emergency in counties affected increase security measures. Thursday, officials said. by the weather. “Several possible names of With more severe weather Forecasters at the National potential attackers were men- expected across the central Weather Service warned that the tioned, which were checked, and United States, forecasters are central United States “will con- the investigation based on (these warning of airport delays and tinue to have widespread showers checks) has so far yielded no con- flooded roads as travellers return and thunderstorms this week- crete results,” Vienna police said home after the Christmas holiday. end.” This weather system “has in a statement, some six weeks Feeding on unseasonably warm a history of producing heavy rain after 130 people were killed in air, storms left a trail of destruc- and flooding, flash flooding over Islamist bombing and shooting tion in rural communities from much of the southeastern US, and attacks in Paris. Alabama to Illinois. the threat for excessive rainfall “In the days before Christ- More than a dozen torna- will persist.” mas a warning was sent out by does were reported Friday in six In Mississippi, eight people a friendly (intelligence) service southern states. were confirmed dead and another to numerous European capitals, In Alabama, where Governor 60 injured, the state emergency saying that it could come to an Robert Bentley had declared management agency said on Twit- attack involving explosives or a a state of emergency to deal ter. Among them was a seven- Phyllis Evans gets a hug from Harvey Payne yesterday when he stopped by to check on her and her home after shooting between Christmas and with the heavy flooding, torna- year-old boy killed when a storm a tornado struck Holly Springs, Mississippi, on Thursday. the New Year in crowded spaces,” dos uprooted trees and tore off picked up and tossed the car he the statement said. rooftops, with one touching down was travelling in, fire chief Kenny Vienna police were not imme- in Birmingham, the state’s most Holbrook told reporters in the submerged in a creek, according was enjoying unseasonably warm since records began in 1871. The diately available for further populous city. town of Holly Springs. to the fire department in Colum- weather, with temperatures in temperature reached a record-set- comment. The warning from the “The damage was ... confined Six fatalities were confirmed in bia, Tennessee. Another person New York peaking at 72 degrees ting 66 degrees (19 Celsius) the fol- intelligence service, which the to approximately one square Tennessee, including three people was killed in Arkansas. Fahrenheit (22 Celsius) on Thurs- lowing day. statement did not name, pointed mile,” Birmingham Fire Depart- found dead on Thursday in a car The East Coast meanwhile, day, the warmest Christmas eve AFP to a higher threat level than “the general abstract” level cited earlier, Vienna police said, asking Austri- ans for their understanding for more controls. Wildfire burns over 1,000 acres of land, forces evacuations in California Extra security steps include sur- veillance in crowded spaces, “espe- CALIFORNIA: A wildfire in battle the blaze in the Solimar No injuries have been reported, caused it to grow rapidly, accord- the roadway. “We’re getting a cially at events and traffic hubs” Southern California burned over Beach area of Ventura County, but the fire has not been con- ing to KABC, the ABC TV station bunch of embers in Solimar east.” as well as intensive identity checks 1,000 acres of land, forced the and parts of the 101 and Pacific tained, according to local media in Los Angeles. The Solimar Beach community and higher alertness for objects closure of parts of two major Coast highways have been closed, reports. Fire officials could not be At around 2am local time is under evacuation order, while a which could carry explosives such highways and led to evacuations according to the county fire reached for an update. yesterday, Venture County Fire voluntary one has been issued for as bags or “bicycle frames”, it said. yesterday, fire officials said. department’s Facebook page. The fire started at around 10:30 Department Captain Steve Faria Beach community fire offi- More than 500 firefighters Ventura is about 65 miles north- pm local time on Friday, and Kaufman said the fire was near cials said. REUTERS were at the scene or en route to west of Los Angeles. strong winds and dry vegetation the beach, “bumping up against REUTERS SUNDAY 27 DECEMBER 2015 14 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com FEATURES Dying art? A recipe to save HK’s handmade dim sum

By Dennis Chong “Young people think being in hours, many dim sum joints in this industry means no freedom Hong Kong now have a quick-fire OR the past 60 because you have to get up early approach, including take-away years, Chui Hoi and the hours are long,” he said. kiosks inside subway stations. has risen in the At Maxim’s Palace in the har- With demand growing and early hours of the bourfront City Hall building — a rental costs high, mass-produced morning to prepare favourite with locals and tour- buns and dumplings imported bite-size steamed ists — chandeliers sparkle over from mainland China are a way Fmorsels for his small but popu- dim sum diners in the buzzing to up the volume and cut costs. lar dim sum restaurant in Hong banqueting hall. But, like Chui, But there are those who are Kong. “Sun Hing” opens its doors Maxim’s supervising chef Tang actively seeking to prevent a culi- at 3am, seven days a week, with Leung-hung says there is a dearth nary art from dying out. a loyal clientele from students to of young talent to produce its In the kitchen of Hong Kong’s the elderly filling the 60-seat res- handmade fare. famous five-star Peninsula hotel, taurant in the western district of “The problem with the indus- teenagers don chefs’ whites to Kennedy Town. try is the manpower. Young peo- knead dough and fill intricate par- At 85-years-old, Chui is com- ple are not willing to join us,” cels as part of a cooking contest. mitted to hand-making his dim he said. “We need to attract youngsters sum — parcels of meat, seafood “Many of them have turned to join this trade. Craftsmanship and sweet fillings served in stacks to hotels’ western restaurants is what is needed,” says Frankie of bamboo baskets — saying that and sushi restaurants for jobs Tang, executive chef of the Penin- freshness is key to their success. instead of Chinese ones,” says sula’s Spring Moon Restaurant But many in the industry fear Tang, with younger people seeing and organiser of the contest. the traditional art of making them as more fashionable and Of the five finalists making dim sum is dying as restaurants with better hours. dim sum from scratch, 17-year- choose factory-made versions to Dim sum — which means old Wu Cheng-long won after save money and meet demand. “touching the heart” — is a Can- making dishes including crunchy “Fresh handmade foods are tonese-style cuisine from south- lotus-seed pastry and a spring roll beautiful after they are steamed, ern China, often served with pots filled with fruit. “We should make but many are made in factories of tea. Typical dishes vary from people not forget (how to make) now,” says Chui. Younger chefs are parcels of shrimp “siu mai” to dim sum. We should continue to less interested in the hard graft sweet treats including custard develop this tradition,” said Wu, it takes to prepare dim sum, he buns and “ma lai go” steamed who won HK$25,000 (US$3,200) Holiday Villa Hotel & Residence Doha choir singing Light of a Million Mornings. adds — it is usually eaten in the sponge cake. cash and a one-year apprentice- morning, so cooks must get up in Once mainly part of a leisurely ship at the hotel. the night to prepare. weekend ritual which could take There is also hope among Holiday Villa Doha kicks off festive season the city’s food experts, who say dim sum’s enduring popularity OLIDAY Villa are grateful to be part of it. On hallways and over balconies. at home and increasing appeal Hotel & Residence behalf of the management and Buma said: “This annual event abroad will inspire young chefs. Doha has raised the staff, I would like to extend our never ceases to lift everyone’s Several of the city’s local dim flags of maroon and heartfelt congratulations on the spirit. Knowing that most of us sum restaurants have received white and lit up its occasion of Qatar National Day.” are far from home this season, we international accolades, includ- Hwalls with striking colours as the Continuing the series of mer- at Holiday Villa, in our own small ing Michelin stars. hotel went one with the nation riment, the dancing lights were way, aims to lighten the mood and “The tradition (of eating dim in celebrating the Qatar National played and jovial hymns were impart enjoyment to everyone. sum) is still thriving... On Father’s Day and to cue the start of the sung for the Festive Season. Cued “Thankful for the unending Day, for example, you don’t go to a Festive Season. by the solemn Angels We Have support given by our guests and western fast food restaurant, you The event, which was cele- Heard on High, Chen together loyal friends, the show also sym- go to ‘yum cha’,” says Hong Kong brated on December 18 in Qatar, with executive assistant man- bolizes the exciting programmes food blogger KC Koo. was filled with cultural traditions, ager, Roy Buma, spearheaded we have prepared for the com- “Yum cha” — Cantonese for ethnic costumes and signature the Tree Lighting celebration ing 2016. With the efforts spent “drink tea” — is the name for the delicacies that delighted leisure recently as the hotel’s very own by staff over the past weeks, the meal during which dim sum are guests, business travellers, expa- choir spread the holiday spirit celebration would not be possi- eaten, washed down by hot tea. triates and the local tenants. with joyous songs such as Jingle ble without them. With these, Bamboo steamer baskets are seen in a kitchen during a local dim sum Koo adds that it is important to Holiday Villa Doha General Bells, Frosty the Snowman and we are grateful to all who has contest in Hong Kong. With much of the city’s famous “dim sum” snacks preserve the handmade tradition Manager Joey Chen said: “We It’s Cold Outside. Good times participated in accomplishing now factory-made, a core of dedicated chefs are determined to prevent as it is a key facet of Cantonese take great pride in commemorat- and holiday cheers from the the success of the event. the handmade tradition from dying out. culture. ing the national day. This country management to the guests are AFP has been our second home and we felt around the lobby, across the THE PENINSULA

Keep your woollens Giving fairy tale touch to kids’ garments in top form with UTFITS inspired by Hollywood outfit altered to their taste or colour or any animated films like Frozen, other customisation that they might have in Beauty and the Beast and Cin- mind,” Mittal said. these easy tips derella, customised for occa- Kidology also collaborates with different sions like birthday parties, designers, and believes in incorporating west- INTER is here and your woollens Oweddings and theme parties, are ruling the ern, Indian, fusion inspirations, unique con- are your best companions during garment industry for children, say co-found- temporary designs, high quality fabrics and this season. It require extra care as ers of Kidology. exquisite tailoring. Wthe fibres are more delicate and are A tour of the children’s fashion brand’s The focus, said Mittal, is on comfort and fit prone to being damaged very easily. Avoid washing factory in Okhla near New Delhi, India, with the use of non-abrasive fabrics, adjust- machines to clean your sweaters and avoid hanging gives a glimpse into how the yarn is spun, able features and other product innovations your sweaters for drying, says an expert. the needles are pulled and magic happens in in sizing. Bhavya Chawla, chief stylist, Voonik, an online creating the outfits. Whether it’s the place- The label also offers accessories, including stylist-handpicked apparel store, has suggested some ment of a single flower, pretty bow or other headbands, handbags, shoes, hats, belts, bow tips to keep woollens as new as ever! motifs — it reflected the nitty-gritties that ties and jewellery, with the aim to help par- • Use the right brush: Avoid washing machines go behind kidswear, a flourishing segment ents complete each look with ease under one to clean your sweaters as they may lose their sheen. in the country’s fashion scene. roof. In the ongoing wedding season, there Instead, use an electrostatic garment brush after Co-founded by Neha Sachar Mittal and is a huge demand for Indian wear. every wear as woollens tend to accumulate a lot of dust Kareena Rajpal, Kidology lets customers Kidology also offers a palate for another and are vulnerable to moths. Airing them and spot- step into its factory for customised orders. It upcoming trend — a mother-child or cleaning is another effective way to keep them new. makes clothes for age group 0-10 years and father-child theme, wherein, the parents • Gently clean tough stains: If you acciden- offers made-to-measure options for teenagers wear the same dresses as their children, tally stain your sweater or scarf, take it to the dry and parents as well. being in sync with their little ones. cleaner. In case the stain is not that tough and you “Here, people come if they want some cus- During the behind-the-scenes tour, one feel you can manage to clean it at home, use a high tomisation done for their child’s outfit, or an could see the artists working on the collection. quality detergent meant for woollens. Mix it in luke- Mittal said that once the sample of the warm water and soak your woollens in the mixture. collection comes from a designer, a lot of Co-founded by Neha Sachar Gently wash the piece of clothing with your hands. research goes into a piece before produc- But remember to do this only for items that don’t Mittal and Kareena Rajpal, tion starts. come with a “Dry clean only” tag! “We do our bit of research. Whether the Kidology lets customers • Avoid hanging: Woollens should never be hung sizing is right or not, the cut is right or not, up on a clothes line like other articles as this causes step into its factory for will one shoulder style hold up all right or the fabric to stretch and it may lose its shape even- not, the number of layers that need to be tually. Lay the sweater or cardigan on a flat surface customised orders. It makes there, the net added to the outfit should be clothes for age group 0-10 soft or hard... all this needs to be researched and allow it to dry at room temperature. Steer clear thoroughly,” she said. Her business partner of sunlight and intense heat as these can sap all years and offers Rajpal said that pink is the dominant colour colour and life from your precious woollens. for girls, and shades of blue are in demand As they are really prone to stretching out of made-to-measure for boys. As for their export market, she shape, you must also avoid hanging woollens on hangers in the closets. Instead, fold them neatly options for teenagers said places like Dubai demand a lot of black Kapoor Red Velvet Bandh Gala — for 1 to 5-year-olds — Rs6,990; for outfits, Indian wear is a hit with the market and place them. 6 to 10-year-olds — Rs7,990. RIGHT: Ikkat Patch Lehenga — for 1 to • Don’t iron when dry: Woollens shouldn’t be and parents as well. for NRIs. 5-year-olds — Rs8,990 and for 6 to 10-year-olds — Rs9,990. IANS ironed when they are completely dry as this won’t ease out the deep creases. They can also scorch eas- ily under direct dry heat. Instead, use a steam press. If that’s not an option, wet a plain white cotton cloth very slightly and use this as a buffer between the iron and the woollen. It’s also advisable to keep the sweater turned inside out when not in use. • Prevent moth attacks and germs: Wool is very vulnerable to moth attacks and germ build-ups. That is why it’s imperative to never stack even remotely damp woolLen clothes in your wardrobe as you will end up creating a breeding ground for germs. Remember to stash some moth balls in the section of your cupboard where you are placing your woollens. IANS

SUNDAY 27 DECEMBER 2015 16 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com MORNING BREAK

Prayer Timings Weather

Strong wind and high Fajr 04.56 am Zuhr 11.35 am Maghrib 04.54 pm Minimum: 15o C Maximum: 20o C Shorook 06.17 am Asr 02.32 pm Isha 06.24 pm seas at first. HIGH TIDE 06:30 - 17:30LOW TIDE 13:30 - 23:30

Hollywood celebrities Falcon training speak out on migrants

LOS ANGELES: As Europe runner Donald Trump has also films including The Incredible grapples with its biggest migrant called for registering all Mus- Hulk, Fight Club and Oscar-win- crisis in recent history, Holly- lims in the US while his rival Ben ning dark comedy Birdman. wood celebrities are rallying to Carson has said allowing Syrian “Let’s reject the ‘anti-human’ raise awareness about the issue refugees into the country was voices that tell us to fear refugees and lashing out at calls to turn tantamount to exposing a neigh- and show this man and his family away refugees. borhood to a “rabid dog.” what Americans are really made Oscar-winning actress Susan Actor Mandy Patinkin, who of,” he added. Sarandon this month became the plays CIA operative Saul Beren- British actor David Morrissey, latest star to arrive on the Greek son on the hit television series best known for his role in the island of Lesbos, a frontline for Homeland and who visited Les- popular zombie series The Walk- the crisis, where she is spending bos earlier this month, said such ing Dead, said it was essential for the holiday helping new arrivals rhetoric only served to fan the the world to act on the crisis. and writing about her experi- flames of intolerance. “We can’t turn a blind eye to ence for the Huffington Post and “This fear-mongering and this,” said Morrissey following RYOT.org, a virtual reality news hatred that’s going on by peo- his trip this summer to Lesbos company. ple running for the president of with the UN refugee agency The 69-year-old actress, who United States is so misguided,” he (UNHCR). “We need to reach out, is known for her support of said during an appearance on the to help, as we would want people humanitarian causes and is a popular Late Show with Stephen to reach out and help us.” goodwill ambassador for the UN Colbert. Across Europe, A-listers are An Emirati falconer moves a lure to attract a falcon in the Liwa Oasis, southwest of Abu Dhabi. Falcons were Children’s Fund (Unicef), said “It is important that we open similarly rallying to the migrant traditionally used for hunting, however, hunting is now prohibited in Abu Dhabi. she was trying to raise aware- up our arms and our hearts to cause. ness on the crisis to honour her refugees that are fleeing a hor- In October, Oscar-nominated grandparents, who were Italian rifying situation.” British actor Benedict Cumber- immigrants. Actor Edward Norton has also batch grabbed headlines after tell- “I hope that I can make it pos- spoken out on the migrant crisis ing a theatre audience in London Janet Jackson halts ‘Unbreakable Tour’ sible for them (the refugees) to and has raised nearly $460,000 on “**** the politicians” before mak- have a voice so we can under- behalf of a Syrian refugee whose ing a despairing plea on behalf of stand,” she wrote in one posting. story prompted him to act. the thousands of refugees arriving NEW YORK: Pop superstar spring,” she said in a statement promised she would reschedule “Understand that ‘these people’ The Syrian, a scientist who lost daily in Europe. Janet Jackson has announced a on Twitter. all concerts and honor tickets. are just like us, wanting to keep seven members of his family in a According to the UNHCR, temporary halt to her global tour “Please pray for me, my fam- Jackson began her tour on their children safe. Wanting them bombing two years ago — includ- more than one million migrants to undergo surgery for an unspec- ily and our entire company dur- August 31 in Vancouver, playing to have a future.” ing his wife and a daughter — was and refugees reached Europe this ified condition, raising fears for ing this difficult time,” she said, across North American along The support by Sarandon and featured on the website Humans of year, including 970,000 who made her health. adding that she would not give with several dates last month in other celebrities comes against New York earlier this month. the dangerous journey across the Jackson, 49, who has returned further comment on her health Japan. a backdrop of inflammatory The man has been living in Mediterranean. with an extensive global tour after condition. She earlier postponed a hand- remarks in the United States, Turkey for the past two years US President Barack Obama several years of relative quiet, said Jackson was due to resume ful of US shows to avoid strain on where leading Republican presi- but is expected to move to the US has pledged to take in 10,000 Syr- late on Thursday that doctors her tour on January 9 in Denver her voice. dential candidates and politi- state of Michigan. ian refugees over the course of the told her she needed an operation and has dates across the United Jackson in October released cians have backed calls to prevent “I saw this story on one of my next year, five times the number “soon.” States, Canada and Europe lined “Unbreakable,” her first album Muslims or Syrian refugees from favorite sites, Humans of New the US has taken in since 2012. “It breaks my heart to tell up through late June. since the death of her brother entering the country. York, and it moved me to tears,” you that I am forced to postpone She did not give an exact date Michael in 2009. Republican presidential front- said Norton, who has starred in AFP the ‘Unbreakable Tour’ until the for resumption of her tour but AFP

Radiohead offers Teenage students build underwater robots unused Bond HAGATNA, Guam: Star- can build robots to do the science “If it were any more complex, it third day of the clinic, and stu- respective robots between small ing through the glass of a tun- and help in sustainability.’” would have just sunk.” dents took to Underwater World yellow buoys at varying depths. song as festival nel aquarium, teenage students The robotics course, held at In the first phase of the clinic, in Tumon to put their bots to the While a few teams made it coordinated the movement of GCC, is one segment of a six-day students learned about buoyancy test in the tunnel aquarium. through the entire course, some homemade robots through an clinic on sustainable technologies. and the science behind engineer- “It’s great that Underwater design flaws hindered bots from surprise underwater obstacle course. Students learn about sustainable ing a robot, Sunga said. World gave us a chance to come getting past the first few obsta- The students, part of a group of design concepts for fossil fuels, Students drew up their own here and actually do this experi- cles. NEW YORK: Art-house rock- 20, 15- to 17-year-olds who were photovoltaics and wind energy. blueprints and cut PVC pipe. The ment,” Sunga said. “Prior to this, High energy and excited chat- ers Radiohead offered a festival taking part in a two-week sus- In groups of four, students robots were simple. we actually worked at a swimming ter filled the tunnel as the propel- surprise — a new song, initially tainable technologies clinic put designed and built robots to help “All I did was give them motors pool, but you don’t see the connec- ler of one of the robots fell off. intended for the latest James on by Guam Community Col- them better understand the con- and a control, and I gave them tivity to real life. So now the kids “It was a design problem,” Bond film. lege (GCC), were inside a tunnel nection between marine robotics uncut PVC pipe,” Sunga said. can actually go to a real aquarium Sunga said of the robot. “But you The British band, which has beneath a water tank at Under- and environmental sustainability. “Then I said, ‘OK, let’s go and and actually work their design.” guys did a good job.” not released an album since 2011 water World in Tumon. One team included Fredlyn start cutting.’” Two members of each four-per- Applause erupted as students amid persistent speculation about “I’m teaching them about Rose Lumogda, a senior at Tiyan The process consisted of count- son group remained in the tunnel cheered on the team’s effort. new recordings, said it had been marine sustainability and not High School, and Ann Aleise Kea- less bouts of trial and error, where they used walkie-talkies to Lumogda and Kealihek said asked to write the theme for just teaching them why corals lihek, a home-educated eighth- Sunga said. While some students communicate with team members they were proud of their team’s Spectre, the latest installment are important, but teaching them, grader. admired their designs, they would at another part of the aquarium robot for making it through the in the series about the dashing ‘Hey, there’s a job out there,’” Their team, called H20, used a quickly realize they weren’t who maneuvered the bots with a whole course. The only problem secret agent. said the programme’s Director three-blade propeller, motor and entirely functional and return to remote control. they faced, they said, was techni- “It didn’t work out, but became A J Sunga, a science professor at floats to keep their robot buoyant the drawing board, he said. “Science is all about collabora- cal difficulties with their walkie- something of our own, which we Guam Community College. “‘You enough to move along the under- After one full day of design and tion,” Sunga said. “You need to talkies that made it hard for them love very much,” Radiohead wrote could build robots to survey the water course. building at GCC, the students work with other people.” to communicate with their team- on its website. land. You can build robots to “The simplicity really helped tested their designs in a swim- Each team was timed as mem- mates. “As the year closes we thought search and rescue someone. You the buoyancy,” Lumogda said. ming pool. Wednesday was the bers collaborated in guiding their AP you might like to hear it,” Radio- head said, offering Christmas greetings and releasing the track free of charge. Camel festival The song, simply entitled Spec- tre, strikes a balance by staying UK doctors, nurses beat broadly in style with Radiohead’s recent output, which has been increasingly experimental in form while keeping the structure of a Bieber to top charts pop song. The song opens in frequent LONDON: A choir of doctors two other hits by Bieber plus Radiohead fashion with a series and nurses beat Justin Bieber Adele’s Hello and One Direction’s of minor chords on a piano but to the Christmas number one History with a backdrop of strings and spot in Britain’s pop music chart Harriet Nerva, a junior doctor synthesizers. on Friday after the heartthrob in the choir, decided to start a The lyricism relates more to urged his fans to buy their song. social media campaign to get the the song’s title than Bond action The Lewisham and Greenwich song to number one after a par- themes, with frontman Thom NHS Choir’s charity single, A ticularly tough day at work. Yorke opening in his trademark Bridge Over You, outsold Bieber’s “A patient with cancer that I falsetto, I’m lost / I’m a ghost / Dis- Love Yourself to snatch the coveted had been looking after for quite possessed. While Radiohead did festive top spot. a number of weeks died,” she told not explain why the song was not That came after Bieber wrote the Guardian newspaper. used, the filmmakers eventually on Twitter on Wednesday: “So “I was listening to the song and chose a young British singing sen- for 1 week it’s ok not to be #1. it dawned on me that a great way sation, Sam Smith, for the theme Let’s do the right thing & help of translating how I was feeling of Spectre, which was released in them win. It’s Christmas. @ and how proud I was to work for October. Choir_NHS good luck”. The the NHS would be getting (the Smith’s track, “Writing’s On southeast London-based choir is song) to number one”. the Wall,” is also in a minor key. made up of staff who work for Britain’s NHS is the fifth larg- It became the first Bond theme the state-funded National Health est employer in the world, provid- song to reach number one on the Service. ing health care which is largely British singles charts. Their song is a mash-up of free at the point of delivery. News of the previously C amels walk along the sand dunes during the Mazayin Dhafra Camel Festival in the desert near the city of Bridge Over Troubled Water by It is widely respected, with poll- unknown Radiohead track will Madinat Zayed, 150km west of Abu Dhabi, yesterday. The festival, which attracts participants from around Simon and Garfunkel and Cold- sters YouGov rating it the insti- renew speculation on how far the Gulf region, includes a camel beauty contest, a display of UAE handicrafts and other activities aimed at play’s Fix You. tution which most people view along the band has moved on a promoting the country’s folklore. Other songs in this week’s top positively. long-awaited ninth album. ten which it has beaten include AFP AFP Sunday 27 December 2015 16 Rabia I 1437 Volume 20 Number 6657 Price: QR2

www.thepeninsulaqatar.com [email protected] | [email protected] Editorial: 44557741 | Advertising: 44557837 / 44557780 QIIB, CIH in joint venture to set up Moroccan bank QIIB to have 40 percent stake in the proposed bank; JV to push bank’s expansion strategy further

DOHA: Qatar’s leading Islamic high quality banking services that opportunities outside of Qatar. upcoming months. bank QIIB has signed a joint ven- contribute to the Kingdom’s over- The Board of Directors of QIIB QIIB currently has a wide net- ture (JV) agreement with CIH all growth and prosperity. see Morocco as a valuable market work of branches in the State of Bank S.A. (Crédit Immobilier et QIIB said: “We are pleased that provides unique opportuni- Qatar. The bank also has invest- Hôtelier), a Moroccan bank, for to announce our entry into the ties for the bank as well as the ments through numerous part- the establishment of a bank in the Moroccan banking sector with a Moroccan economy at large. nerships within and outside of Kingdom of Morocco. strategic partner, CIH Bank SA, QIIB derives its strength from Qatar. The JV agreement is in the which was established in 1920 and nearly 25 years of banking expe- As a premier bank, QIIB has framework of QIIB’s strategy, has long-standing banking tradi- rience and hopes to continue its managed to achieve sustainable which focuses on pursuing over- tion in the Kingdom of Morocco. success by working in the King- growth and strong financials for seas opportunities to enhance the The partnership followed the dom of Morocco. the past 25 years. QIIB continues financial position of the bank and requisite due diligence in con- QIIB said it will put all of its to enhance its strategy to trans- diversify its portfolio investments sultation with the Qatar Central expertise at the disposal of the form the way it works with their so as to benefit its shareholders. Bank.” proposed bank to ensure its devel- customers to enable the bank to QIIB stressed that the expan- The JV agreement is a sequel to opment, growth, and success, as compete effectively. The Bank’s sion move into Morocco follows a comprehensive and in-depth talks well as that of the Moroccan team continues to deliver market detailed feasibility study, which between QIIB and CIH Bank SA. economy, thus benefitting the leading innovative banking solu- took into account all factors Under the agreement, QIIB will Moroccan population in the area tions. including the expected returns have 40 percent stake in the pro- of banking services. QIIB has been given an ‘A2’ on investment and other market posed bank in Morocco. The bank hopes that it will be rating by Moody’s with a stable factors. The Board of Directors of QIIB able to obtain all the necessary outlook, while Fitch has accorded QIIB noted that the Kingdom of has set a long-term strategy that regulatory approvals for estab- it an ‘A+’ rating with a stable out- Morocco has a “strong and diver- focuses on the domestic mar- lishing the new bank to launch look. sified economy”, one that requires ket whilst it pursues excellent the banking services during the THE PENINSULA A view of QIIB headquarters in Doha.

Qatar Rail, Qatar Cool in deal for $1.7 trillion of Nigeria to reduce sub-zero euro cooling metro Red Line stations petrol prices, debt, shows ECB DOHA: Qatar Railways Com- outlook for 2016 pany, the company oversee- ing the construction of Qatar’s scrap subsidy LONDON: As the European integrated railway network, has Central Bank wound down its signed a contract with Qatar asset purchases for the year, the Cool, to provide district cooling ABUJA: Nigeria will reduce between their costs and the fixed amount of euro-region govern- services at seven of the Doha gasoline costs and scrap a fuel pump prices. It also has agree- ment bonds that yield less than Metro Red Line stations. A sign- subsidy under a pricing mecha- ments with several offshore refin- zero was at about $1.68 trillion, ing ceremony took place at Qatar nism to come into effect from ers to swap refined products for indicating investors see the Rail’s headquarters on the 30th January, Petroleum Minister crude. potential for further easing of of November in presence of Saad of State Emmanuel Kachikwu While tumbling oil prices have monetary policy in 2016. Ahmed Al Muhannadi, CEO of said. slashed Nigeria’s revenue and With QE acquisitions set to Qatar Rail, and Yasser Salah Al Prices will fall to 85 naira roiled its currency and stock mar- resume on January 4, bonds of gov- Jaidah, CEO of Qatar Cool. ($0.44) per litre from 87 naira, ket, it’s also provided an oppor- ernments from Portugal to Ger- Qatar Rail has chosen to part- Kachikwu, who is also the group tunity for the government to end many will be supported again by ner with Qatar Cool to provide managing director of state-owned the subsidies that cost as much as the 1.5 trillion-euro programme, district cooling at the Pearl and Nigerian National Petroleum $7bn a year. which is scheduled to keep run- West Bay stations. Corp, told reporters while on a The finance ministry said last ning until at least March 2017. The stations include Legtaifiya, visit to a refinery in the country’s year that $60 per barrel was the Begun in March this year, the Katara, Al Qassar, Doha Exhi- southern oil hub of Port Harcourt break-even point at which there purchases continue to push an bition and Convention Center, on Friday, according to a state- is no more need to subsidize fuel increasing number of securities West Bay, Corniche and Al Bidda Saad Ahmed Al Muhannadi, CEO of Qatar Rail, and Yasser Salah Al Jaidah, ment sent by the petroleum min- costs. off the table -- meaning their stations. The partnership will CEO of Qatar Cool at the signing ceremony in Doha istry. Widespread fraud and corrup- yields are so low they’re ineligible proactively contribute to cooling Nigeria, Africa’s biggest oil tion and declining oil revenue for buying. The total issued value measures during the summer air conditioning system, known district cooling system that won’t producer, relies on fuel imports have made it imperative for the of bonds that yield less than the months starting 2019, the pro- as Fan Coil Units (FCU) or Air only withstand the hot weather to meet domestic needs since its government to cancel the subsi- ECB’s minus 0.3 percent deposit jected operation date of the Doha Handling Units (AHU). during summer peak times in refineries produce a fraction of dies, Kachikwu said. rate, and are thus deemed ineligi- Metro project (Phase 1). Cooling systems will operate Doha, but also contribute to pro- their 445,000 barrels-per-day An attempt by the previous ble for acquisition by the ECB, is Through district cooling, throughout the other stations and tecting the environment.” capacity after decades of poor government to end them in 2011 about $616bn of the $6.35 trillion chilled water is delivered via on the trains themselves. Yasser Salah Al Jaidah said: maintenance, corruption and led to a week of strikes and pro- Bloomberg Eurozone Sovereign underground isolated pipelines Saad Al Muhannadi, com- “We take great pride in being part mismanagement. tests across the country, forcing Bond Index. A slump in oil prices to commercial, hotel and residen- mented: “Qatar Rail has always of Qatar Rail’s story. The benefits The refinery in Port Harcourt their partial reinstatement. is supporting economists’ view tial buildings to cool the buildings sought to work with the best local that the Qatar Rail system will will begin production next week that the ECB is unlikely to veer water via an Energy Transfer suppliers and partners on every bring to our country by provid- after repairs are completed, President Muhammadu Buhari, from its accommodative policy Station (ETS) which is situated aspect of each of its projects to ing an environmentally friendly, according to Kachikwu. who took office in May, had con- stance as it struggles to achieve in the basement of each building achieve the implementation of a safe, fast and very efficient means To keep the country supplied, tinued the subsidies which — at its inflation goal of just under 2 within a district. The EST in each sustainable railway network. of transportation are clear and the NNPC, as the state oil com- over 1 trillion naira - accounted percent, fulfilling a principal aim building then uses the buildings We have the pleasure to coop- necessary for our growing popu- pany is known, has relied on for almost a quarter of the 2015 of the asset-purchase program. water to lower the temperature of erate with Qatar Cool to provide lation.” imports by other fuel retailers, budget. air passing through the building’s 7 stations on the project with a THE PENINSULA who get refunded the difference BLOOMBERG BLOOMBERG

Deutsche Bank sees taper tantrum echo ahead for US treasuries

NEW YORK : Enjoy the holiday footed by raising rates in March. tumbling. The Bank of America may raise rates four times in 2016. 100 2/32. of the year. slowdown, bond traders. If ana- That may prompt a smaller ver- Merrill Lynch MOVE Index, Futures prices show traders The last time the Fed sparked Thomas Roth, Senior Treasury lysts at Deutsche Bank AG are sion of the market “tantrum” seen which gauges implied volatility don’t buy into the Fed’s timeline. a Treasury-market tantrum, trader at Mitsubishi UFJ Secu- right, the market is going to get in 2013, when the prospect of an through options prices, fell to The market continues to expect it wiped out about $1.5 trillion rities USA Inc., says he is not a lot more volatile. end to Fed bond- buying fueled a 66.02 this week, the lowest since two rate increases in 2016. Trad- of bond-market value globally, willing to take a bullish stance After the Federal Reserve sharp selloff in Treasuries. December 2014. ers are pricing in a 56 percent according to Bank of America on treasuries. He thinks that the succeeded in nudging borrowing “We call it a ‘baby tantrum,”’ Early signals from the central chance that the Fed raises rates indexes. Konstam doesn’t expect bond market is being too compla- costs up from near zero last week Konstam said. “The idea is that bank indicate that policy mak- at or before its April meeting, the same amount of damage this cent and ignoring a risky cocktail in its first interest-rate increase the Fed’s tightening will look ers may raise rates more quickly based on the assumption that time around. He forecasts the of low coupons and high duration, since 2006, Treasury yields have somewhat benign, and then you’ll than traders expect. The median the effective fed funds rate will 10-year Treasury yield will peak a guage of interest-rate sensitiv- hardly moved. Now, traders are realize that rates are rising to 1 of the Fed’s so-called dot plot -- trade at the middle of the new around 2.75 percent close to the ity. betting low inflation and slow glo- percent. That’s a lot of stress” for a chart sketching out officials’ FOMC target range after the middle of next year. “People feel comfortable bal growth will encourage policy markets. projections for where rates will next increase. After that, he predicts the Fed because they feel the terminal makers to raise rates slowly in The warning from Deutsche be in the future -- calls for them The yield on the benchmark will hold off from further rate rate will be low,” meaning the 2016. Bank, which has the second- to reach 1.375 percent next year. 10-year Treasury note rose four increases to make sure financial Fed won’t raise rates as high as The lull won’t last, according to largest share of the interest- That would constitute four 0.25 basis points, or 0.04 percentage conditions haven’t tightened too it did in previous cycles, Roth said Dominic Konstam, global head of rates trading business in the US percentage point increases. On point, to 2.24 percent this week. much. That would alleviate some from New York. “That may hap- rates research for Deutsche Bank behind Goldman Sachs Group Monday, Federal Reserve Bank of The 2.25 percent note maturing pressure on government-debt, pen, but it’s not a bet I’d be willing in New York. He predicts the Fed Inc., comes as expectations for Atlanta President Dennis Lock- in November 2025 fell 10/32, or prompting yields to fall back to to make.” will catch bond traders wrong- Treasury-market volatility are hart also suggested that the Fed $3.13 per $1,000 face amount, to around current levels by the end BLOOMBERG SUNDAY 27 DECEMBER 2015 18 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com BUSINESS Local food prices may rise slightly in 2016, 2017 Global food prices should become less of a drag on inflation in Qatar, says QNB economic commentary

DOHA: The transmission of ening as global growth has been China, the EU and Kazakhstan of rice, particularly in Indonesia, global food prices, which are slower than expected, pushing has been revised up. Production of where rice production is expected expected to fall slightly in 2016 down prices. The International other products is also expected to to be 1 million-2 million tonnes before recovering in 2017, into Monetary Fund’s (IMF) revised rise. For example, the World Bank lower in 2015.While international the Qatari economy should lead expected global GDP growth down forecasts higher output of soybean food prices should be insulated to rising domestic food price by 0.2 percent to 3.1 percent for seeds and soybean oil in 2016. from supply shocks due to high inflation by 1.5 percent and 3.2 2015, compared with growth of 3.4 Finally, oil prices are expected to stock levels, there is a risk that a percent in 2016 and 2017, respec- percent in 2014. Second, favourable stabilise around current levels in particularly severe El Nino could tively. weather conditions have boosted 2016 as excess supply is reduced. disrupt global food production. As a result, food prices are supply and stocks across a number As a result food price deflations The outlook for international expected to create progressively of food products. Stock-to-use is expected to be reduced to 1.6 food prices has implications for more upward pressure on Qatar’s ratios for grains such as maize, percent in 2016. Qatar, which imports most of its Consumer Price Index (CPI) wheat and rice, a measure of the By 2017, QNB expect food prices food from abroad. This means that inflation, although this should abundance of supply compared to to recover moderately. Global the food component of the con- be offset by disinflationary pres- demand, are above their histori- growth is expected to pick up again sumer price index (CPI) in Qatar, sures in other sectors. Overall, cal averages. Production of other slightly to 3.8 percent. Additionally, which has a weight of 12.6 percent inflation in Qatar is expected to products such as soybeans, soy- supply and demand should adjust in the CPI basket, is closely linked remain moderate over 2016-17, bean oil and palm oil are all rising. to lower food prices, gradually to the World Bank food price index, QNB’s economic commentary Third, lower oil prices have pushed working out excess supply. Food as the chart below shows. If the his- noted yesterday. down food prices as agriculture is producers are likely to invest less torical relationship between domes- Global food prices have not highly energy intensive. For exam- in productivity enhancements due tic and international prices persists, escaped the commodity rout, ple, fertiliser prices are an impor- to lower prices, while consumers then QNB forecasts that domestic falling 24.3 percent since early tant input for agriculture and are should demand more. Finally, oil food prices should rise slightly in 2014, according to the World closely linked to energy prices. prices are projected to recover as 2016 (1.5 percent) before picking Bank. Bumper harvests, weak These three factors are investment cuts, mainly among US up further in 2017 (3.2 percent). Source: Ministry of Development Planning and Statistics, World Bank and demand and collapsing oil prices expected to continue to play an shale-oil producers, impact supply. International food prices are not have driven food prices lower. important role for the outlook of As a result, QNB expect interna- QNB Economics forecasts necessarily fully transmitted into Qatar’s food inflation has fallen international food prices in 2016 tional food prices to rise 3.7 per- the Qatari economy because of local with lower international prices as and 2017. In 2016, higher global cent in 2017. It should, however, be El Nino on record is expected to to abnormal levels of rain, mainly factors such as transportation and it imports almost all of its food. grow this expected (3.6 percent noted that food price forecasts are peak this December-February, in the southern hemisphere. For domestic policies limiting price Three main factors are push- according to the IMF). Addition- subject to unpredictable weather which could disrupt food output. example, drier conditions in East increases on staple foods. ing global food prices lower. First, ally, wheat production is expected events. This is particularly rel- El Nino is a weather pattern that Asia, which are expected to per- demand growth for food is weak- to reach a new high as output in evant currently as the strongest recurs every 2-7 years and can lead sist, have led to lower production THE PENINSULA

VTB provision Deloitte Tax FAMCO launches new Volvo B11R model cut pulls DOHA: Al Futtaim Auto and engine featuring 430 HP com- maintains tier Machinery Company (FAMCO), bines Volvo’s track record in Russian lender the distributor of Volvo Buses in safety with its extremely robust one ranking in Qatar, has set new benchmarks and durable chassis and a highly MOSCOW: VTB Group, Russia’s in passenger protection with its luxurious body including the most second-largest bank, had profit recent launch of the Volvo B11R technologically advanced features GCC for 2016 of 3 billion rubles for the first 11 chassis fitted with a Marcopolo manufactured by award-winning months of the year after a surge Paradiso 1200 body at an event Brazilian corporation Marcopolo. DOHA: World Tax 2016 has in November more than made up here recently. Present were Mike Fritz, GM awarded the Deloitte network its for earlier losses. The event was attended by sen- FAMCO Qatar, Bahrain and best rankings to date, giving a ‘top VTB posted net income of 10.9 ior company executives and key Oman, Alexander Bell, FAMCO’s tier one’ rating to Deloitte mem- billion rubles ($155m) in Novem- transport and logistics industry Regional General Manager – Officials at the launching ceremony of the bus in Doha. ber firms in 48 countries including ber, compared with a loss of 8.9 professionals at the Grand Hyatt- truck and bus division in addition the Deloitte firm in the Gulf Coop- billion rubles a year earlier. The Doha. to Sweden’s Ambassador to Qatar, Steve Hedouin , Vice-President Marcopolo corporation, a Brazil- eration Council countries. bank cut the amount of money set The new coach which boasts Ewa Polano , Saeed Mohamed MEAC and Jithesh KV, Business ian bus and coach manufacturer. The Deloitte tax practice in the aside for bad loans, with provi- a 6 cylinders and 11 liter diesel Nazeer from MBM transport, Director from Volvo Bus Corpora- GCC region has therefore main- sions plunging to 1.3 billion rubles tion and Michael Mensch from THE PENINSULA tained its tier one ranking annually last month from 25.8 billion rubles since 2010. The International Tax in the same period of 2014. Review World Tax Rankings are VTB’s return to profit runs based upon input from market and counter to the turbulence in Rus- tax professionals around the world. sia’s banking sector as the coun- “We are very pleased that the try braces for a second year of Deloitte tax practice in the GCC recession. Gulf Air records positive results in Q3 2015 survey region continues to be recognised The central bank revoked a by World Tax for excellence in tax record number of licenses in 2015 MANAMA: Gulf Air, Bah- the Middle East and operates and legal services,” said Nauman as bad debt erodes lenders’ assets. rain’s national carrier, yester- double daily (or more) flights to Ahmed, partner in charge for tax VTB Chief Financial Officer Her- day released the results of its 10 regional cities in addition to at Deloitte in the Middle East. bert Moos said last month that quarterly Customer Satisfaction select destinations in the Indian “These strong results reflect the bank would break even this Survey results for Q3 2015. Cus- Subcontinent and Europe, from Deloitte’s commitment to mak- year and targets 50 billion rubles tomer comments for the period its hub at Bahrain International ing an impact that matters for tax of profit next year. from July to September 2015 Airport. clients locally as well as globally. “Such low provisioning is revealed an overall 31 percent The airline offers regular fare This is achieved through techni- unlikely to be repeated,” Nata- increase in compliments, a 6 promotions via its official website cal excellence, leading technology, lia Berezina, a banking analyst percent decrease in complaints gulfair.com for travel across its a strong global network, and an at UralSib Financial Corp., said and a 26 percent increase in the network. overall focus on bringing the right by phone. “This could be aimed distribution of Staff Appreciation Gulf Air Acting Chief Commer- people with the right skills and at achieving their guidance of a Vouchers compared to the same cial Officer Ahmed Janahi said, tools at the right time to address break-even year.” period last year. “These results are further testi- clients’ most important chal- VTB’s cost of risk dropped to Significantly, the passenger mony to our continuous efforts lenges.” According to its editors, 0.2 percent in November, com- feedback reflected the positive benefits for Gulf Air’s most elite (49 percent), non-stop flights (31 towards improving our customer World Tax is designed to provide pared with 3 percent a year ear- impact made by Gulf Air’s cabin level of frequent flyer programme percent), lower fare (31 percent) service across all fronts. We a full picture of the market for tax lier and 1.8 percent in the first 11 crew performance including members and supplementing the and good value for money (26 per- have embarked on an aggressive advice by assigning tier ratings to months of the year. appearance, responsiveness and programme’s existing Blue, Silver cent). revamping of our products and firms in many jurisdictions. VTB Group, one of the leading availability – all delivering the and Gold loyalty programme tiers. In line with this, 2015 saw Gulf services over the past year that Firms rated tier one are con- universal banks of Russia, offers highest rating for Q3 – while also Passenger feedback on their Air increase its total number of has received excellent feedback sidered the best teams overall a wide range of banking serv- revealing an increase in popular- selection of Gulf Air revealed four flights by approximately 1,000 from customers, as reflected in for tax advice in the country ices and products in Russia, CIS, ity and positive feedback on the important aspects for their choice including increasing schedule these survey results. We continue concerned. Rankings are based Europe, Asia, Africa, and the US. airline’s Falconflyer Programme of Bahrain’s national carrier and frequencies for more convenient to do so in line with our mission on firms’ breadth and depth of The Group’s largest subsidiaries which this year celebrated its these did not vary throughout and seamless movement across to deliver a superior travel expe- resources and experience, as well in Russia are VTB24, Bank of 20th anniversary and launched the year, even though their ranks the airline’s network. rience to all and I am delighted as quality of work, and range of Moscow, and TransCreditBank. a new, premium Black tier Fal- might slightly change from one With a focus on connectivity with our progress to date.” specialisms. conflyer loyalty programme quarter to another: most con- for convenience, Gulf Air boasts BLOOMBERG card – introducing a host of new venient departure/arrival time one of the largest networks in THE PENINSULA THE PENINSULA Russian firms tone down holiday cheer as crisis bites

MOSCOW: Forget corporate ping complex, said that busi- during the years of high oil prices, New Year’s party, which report- The scandal prompted Deputy companies can save by having holiday bashes where glitterati ness was mostly good although with some companies booking edly cost more than $30,000 Prime Minister Arkady Dvorkov- employees host and participate are treated to fine champagne some clients waited until the lodges in the Alps, splurging on (¤28,000). ich to order a check into whether in entertainment programmes, and French delicacies: Russia’s last minute to book their parties, chocolate fondue fountains and “We have a huge amount of the Rosnano employees’ bonuses opting for buffet-style meals or economic crisis has taken the while others scaled theirs down. paying singers hundreds of thou- money. Simply a lot,” Rosnano were justified. axing the traditional celebrations glow off the holiday season this “For the first time ever this sands of dollars for a perform- head Anatoly Chubais told his For most companies in the pri- altogether. year. year we were taking reserva- ance. staff at the event held at a Mos- vate sector, New Year’s habits are Buying Russian wines instead Many companies are now tions in December,” said Vetrova, But if it was once trendy to cow club, according to a leaked hard to break, with three-quar- of imported alcohol can reduce forced to scrimp on once lavish noting that clients used to make show off, the opposite appears to video that caused a scandal. ters planning to have a party. the bill by half or more, he added. New Year’s parties or celebrate bookings as early as May. be true amid a shrinking econ- “We will have a second bonus,” But 41 percent said they have Restaurateurs for whom New the country’s most beloved holi- She added that some clients omy, with prices rising and real he said, to cries of “hooray!” cut their budgets and 21 percent Year’s parties have always been a day in the office -- with simple had cancelled, while others toned incomes falling by more than nine Chubais, one of a handful of fig- plan to party in the office, accord- gold mine are taking a hit. snacks on offer and employees down the festivities: the average percent in the first 11 months of ures who oversaw liberal reforms ing to a study by the Russian Igor Bukharov, president of the bringing their own drinks. price tag this year is 25 to 30 per- 2015. in the government of Boris Yeltsin executive search website Head- Russian Federation of Restaura- On a recent afternoon servers cent lower than last December. This year, holiday excesses can and who managed to hold on to a Hunter.ru. teurs and Hoteliers, said the mar- were arranging Chianti bottles “People don’t go away hungry land businesses in hot water. top post under President Vladimir “The situation is not good,” said ket for holiday catering is down on white tablecloths for a holiday but they don’t eat foie gras,” she The government is looking Putin, was forced to explain him- Yegor Dobrogorsky, the head of by a further 20 percent after last party for 500 employees of an said with a wry smile. into what many believe is a sus- self. event agency Communicator Cre- year’s decline. international firm in Roll Hall, a “Many firms ask us whether piciously lavish banquet laid on “About the New Year’s corpo- ative Events, according to which The parties “have always been venue just south of the Moscow they can bring their own alcohol, recently by the state corporation rate party,” he wrote on Twitter. the hard-hit construction and an important source of revenue city centre. and we agree.” Rosnano, a leader in Russia’s nan- “I confirm that all expenses were auto sectors appear to be scrimp- to compensate for a slow Janu- Yelena Vetrova, deputy director Corporate New Year’s parties otechnology industry. paid from the personal funds of ing the most. ary,” he said. of the entertainment and shop- became a huge industry in Russia Some 400 people attended the board members.” Dobrogorsky added that AFP SUNDAY 27 DECEMBER 2015 BUSINESS www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 19 Chinese bank QTA-Qatar Chamber forum next month to offer $7.7bn Forum will explore needs of local tourism business owners and foreign investors in finance in DOHA: In a move to support the GCC Countries. QTA is in licenses of 167 others. QTA has reduced from several weeks to partnered with Qatar Develop- local tourism business owners charge of licensing tour operators also licensed a total of 241 exhibi- two days, provided license seek- ment Bank and Qatar Business unruly Xinjiang and attract more local and for- and tour guides, tourism estab- tions and events, including charity ers have the necessary paperwork Incubation Centre to soft launch eign investment into the sector, lishments and activities, hotel events, in addition to licensing 90 from other authorities such as the an incubator specialized in tour- BEIJING: Minsheng Banking Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA) establishments, and exhibitions exhibition organising companies. Department of Civil Defense and ism businesses. QBIC-Tourism Corporation, China’s largest pri- and Qatar Chamber (QC) will and exhibition organisers. As the The forum will provide an ave- the Ministry of Municipality. The has incubated nine businesses and vate bank, will provide 50 billion be jointly hosting an industry- government body responsible for nue for QTA to ensure that the new solution is expected to fur- is looking to welcome more small- yuan ($7.73bn) in financial sup- wide forum next month, the two planning, regulating and promot- new process alleviates any con- ther refine this process. to-medium enterprises on board port to China’sviolence-prone far organisations announced yester- ing a sustainable tourism sec- cerns or pressures they may be Throughout 2015, QTA has when it officially launches in 2016. western region of Xinjiang over day. tor in Qatar, the Authority puts experiencing and reflects their increased efforts to attract invest- As the Qatari government’s the next five years, state media Discussions at the event will mechanisms in place to ensure needs. ments in the country’s tourism tourism planning, regulation and said on Friday. seek input from key stakehold- tourism establishments operate at Since the launch of the Qatar sector, developing a Tourism Pro- promotion arm, QTA works in Hundreds of people have been ers, including QC’s Tourism and the highest standards while pro- National Tourism Sector Strat- motion department that, among partnership with stakeholders killed over the past few years in Exhibition Committee and indus- moting and perpetuating Qatar’s egy in 2014, QTA undertook the other initiatives, will be launch- to plan, regulate and promote resource-rich Xinjiang, strategi- try professionals, for the devel- culture. task of revamping its licens- ing a Tourism Investment Guide the development of a sustainable cally located on the borders of opment of licensing solutions According to QTA figures, the ing operations to ensure a more in 2016. The guide will highlight and mature tourism sector that central Asia, in violence between that will enhance the experience Authority has licensed 97 tourism streamlined process for inves- opportunities for investment in contributes to Qatar’s future and the Muslim Uighur people who of investors looking to contrib- establishments this year alone, tors and tourism business own- Qatar, direct investors to QTA’s positions the country as a leading call the region home and ethnic ute to Qatar’s tourism offering. including hotels, tour operators ers. Through this process, the priority areas, and provide a step- tourism destination. majority Han Chinese. The gov- Qatar Chamber is one of the old- and destination management average time needed to acquire a by-step guide to setting up a tour- ernment has also blamed attacks est Chambers of Commerce in companies and has renewed the tourism license was significantly ism establishment. Locally, QTA THE PENINSULA elsewhere in China, including Bei- jing, on Islamist militants from Xinjiang. Authorities have employed a carrot and stick approach to bring Xinjiang under control, China to cut Pound traders see no rate increase in 2016 massively ramping up security but also pumping in money, in a recognition of the economic roots on-grid tariffs LONDON: Investors in the raised US interest rates for the of the unrest. Minsheng President pound have waited more than first time in almost a decade. Hong Qi said the bank will make for solar and six years for the Bank of England “The Bank of England has Xinjiang one of its strategic devel- (BoE) to raise interest rates and recently created more of a diver- opment areas, especially due to bolster the UK currency. With gence in policy expectations Xinjiang’s location as a hub for wind power money markets signaling no move between itself and the Fed and China’s New Silk Road initia- next year, it looks like they may that’s weighing down more on tive, the official Xinjiang Daily BEIJING: China will cut pay- have longer to wait. cable,” said Lee Hardman, a Lon- reported. ments to wind and solar electric- The central bank has held don- based currency strategist at The newspaper did not say ity generators for contributing its key rate at a record-low 0.5 Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ what specific projects the money power to the grid, the country’s percent since March 2009 and Ltd, referring to the pound-dol- may go towards. Calls to the bank state planning commission said forward contracts based on the lar exchange rate. BOE officials seeking comment went unan- on Friday, reflecting recent sterling overnight index average, “appear to be utilising this drop in swered. Xinjiang’s Communist declines in operating costs. or Sonia, aren’t fully pricing in a oil to buy them more time before Party boss, Zhang Chunxian, said Starting in 2016, on-grid tariffs quarter-point rate increase until raising rates. The fundamentals he hoped Minsheng could help to for solar producers will be 0.02 to January 2017, data compiled by are quite similar to the US, but lower financing costs for firms in 0.10 yuan lower per kilowatt-hour Bloomberg show. obviously a lot less decisive.” Xinjiang and in the region’s over- - with the higher cuts applying in Speculation that rates will The pound rose 0.1 percent this A man walks past the Bank of England in London, UK. all development, the newspaper the country’s less populated, arid remain low as policy makers week to $1.4908 as of 1:02 pm in added. Many Uighurs complain western region - while tariffs for attempt to boost inflation is being London on Thursday. It dropped week, sending the 10-year yield the euro-area’s benchmark sover- that only the Han Chinese benefit wind power generators will fall underpinned by oil prices that as low as $1.4806 on December 22, up nine basis points, or 0.09 per- eign debt, returning 0.6 percent from Xinjiang’s economic growth, 0.02 to 0.03 yuan, the National dropped to an 11-year low this the lowest since April 15. Sterling centage point, to 1.92 percent. The through Wednesday, according as a result of discrimination and Development and Reform Com- week, helping to push the pound depreciated 0.7 percent to 73.44 2 percent gilt due in September to Bloomberg. Germany’s bonds the poor educational levels of mission said in a statement. to its lowest level versus the dol- pence per euro, having touched 2025 dropped 0.8, or 8 pounds earned 0.4 percent, while US Uighurs, including lack of fluency The cuts, which were expected, lar since April. That policy out- 74.16 pence on December 22, the per 1,000-pound face amount, to Treasuries gained 0.9 percent. in Mandarin, the national tongue. are in line with a 0.03 yuan cut look contrasts with the Federal weakest level since October 15. 100.70. Still, gilts this year have on Wednesday to on-grid tariffs Reserve, which earlier this month UK government bonds fell this outperformed German securities, BLOOMBERG REUTERS for thermal power. Coal still fires more than 70 percent of China’s power generation. “This is posi- tive for rooftop solar,” said Rosie Pidcock, senior business develop- ment manager at UGE Interna- Ukraine’s parliament approves next Singha to take $1.1bn tional, a New York-headquartered rooftop solar developer operat- ing in China, noting the biggest impact would fall on utility-scale year’s budget to clear way for IMF fund stake in Masan units developers, who have mainly built solar farms in the country’s west. KIEV: Ukraine’s parliament symbolic of squabbling within expects to receive $1.7bn of IMF HANOI: Singha Asia Holding Vietnam is forecast to post the The cost of installing panels approved next year’s budget as Ukraine’s ruling pro-European aid in the coming weeks. The dis- Pte Ltd is investing $1.1bn in strongest economic growth this was still set to fall in 2016, Pid- it seeks to clear the way for the coalition, which took power after bursement, delayed from October, Masan Group Corp’s consumer year of six major Southeast Asian cock said, and the cuts were not government to receive delayed street protests ousted the nation’s opens the way to raise $3.3bn in and brewery units to take advan- markets, according to the Asian enough to push companies into funds from a $17.5bn bailout to former pro-Russian leader in external financing, including a tage of Vietnam’s young and Development Bank. The govern- the red. help the economy recover from 2014. $1 bn loan guarantee from the growing middle class, the com- ment estimates an expansion of China is trying to reduce its the recession. The IMF said last week a United States. panies said in a joint statement 6.7 percent next year, the fastest dependence on fossil fuels that The budget, a compromise budget that doesn’t meet its “I do realise that it is not the yesterday. pace in nine years. are contributing to choking smog. between lawmakers and the cabi- requirements would risk inter- best budget,” Prime Minister Singha, a privately held unit of “Masan’s strong distribution The city of Beijing declared two net, was passed by 263 votes in the rupting the flow of cash. That Arseniy Yatsenyuk said, address- Thailand’s Boon Rawd Brewery, platform, which reaches all cor- pollution “red alerts” this fall. 450-seat legislature. It envisages uncertainty has sent bond prices ing the parliament. “I do realise will acquire 25 percent of Masan ners of Vietnam, will allow Singha Local governments have also been a shortfall of 3.7 percent of gross lower, curbing optimism after a that we will need to work more Consumer and 33.3 percent of to access a fast-growing market increasing the subsidies that solar domestic product, in line with restructuring. not only on this budget but also Masan Brewery in a transaction of more than 90 million consum- producers have come to rely on, demands set out by the Interna- The yield on Ukrainian govern- on all reforms, including tax, comprised entirely of new capital ers and support the expansion of particularly in the country’s east- tional Monetary Fund (IMF). ment debt due 2019 has surged medicine, education. We will be that is expected to close in Janu- newer categories,” Palit Bhirom- ern half, where solar has strug- “The budget approval is an more than a percentage point to able to carry out reforms if we ary, according to the statement. bhakdi, Singha Asia chief execu- gled to take off. important step to receive the next 10.091 percent since the securities are united.” Masan Group is Vietnam’s larg- tive officer, said in the statement. The city of Beijing added a local tranche from the IMF and other were first traded November 17, A cabinet reshuffle is possible est listed consumer company by “Masan will be well received by subsidy for “distributed solar” international financial aid linked after private investors accepted after the budget approval. Volo- market capitalization. “Vietnam Thailand’s 65 million consumers, - which includes rooftop and to it,” the Finance Ministry said a write-down on the value of the dymyr Hroisman, the speaker has become an exciting story with where its key categories such other small installations under early Friday in an e- mailed state- bonds they held. of parliament, said the issue of its strong economic growth and as fish sauce and Vietnamese 20 megawatts - in August, while ment as debates dragged on until The yield declined from reforming the government and stable macro economy,” Adithep coffee are appreciated for their surrounding Hebei province, the 4 am in Kiev. 10.112 on Thursday, according to bringing in new people is timely Vanabriksha, Bangkok-based chief unique flavor and origin.” Shares country’s biggest steel-producing “However, the IMF’s experts Bloomberg data. but the ruling coalition hasn’t dis- investment officer at Aberdeen of Masan rose 6.4 percent at the region and heavy coal user, added will analyse separately whether Ukraine, whose economy grew cussed it yet, the Interfax news Asset Management Plc, said by close of trading in Ho Chi Minh one earlier this month. the budget meets IMF program a quarterly 0.7 percent between service reported. phone. “Its large and young popu- City after the announcement. criteria.” Discord over the budget July and September after 18 lation has also made it attractive REUTERS and a new tax code had become months of contraction, now BLOOMBERG for foreign companies’ expansion.” BLOOMBERG

Vietnam’s GDP grows at highest rate in 5 years HANOI: Vietnam’s economy in Asian economies have been rat- percent compared to last year nations, the pact is something of a 2015 grew at its fastest pace in tled by troubles in China, where with a record-high of $14.5bn. coup for the country’s Communist five years, official figures showed the world’s second largest econ- The strong showing is a signifi- rulers, who will meet in January yesterday, shaking off regional omy has suffered with its worst cant jump on the last two years. for a major gathering of senior economic worries with strong annual growth rates in a quarter In 2014 Vietnam’s GDP growth officials to chose new leaders and exports, record foreign invest- of a century. was just under six percent, while decide the country’s five-year eco- ment and buoyant domestic con- While regional neighbours like that of 2013 was only 5.42 percent. nomic plan. sumption. Thailand have suffered, Viet- Senior economist Le Dang In a report earlier this month, The communist nation nam has proved resistant to the Doanh told AFP that strong the World Bank said the TPP deal recorded a GDP growth rate of slowdown of its giant northern industrial growth also helped could add “as much as eight per- 6.68 percent, easily surpassing the neighbour, partly through state boost the economy as well as cent to Vietnam’s GDP... over the government’s 6.2 percent target intervention. The State Bank of “lower oil prices in the world next 20 years” if it goes ahead. But with a figure that looks set to be Vietnam weakened the dong three market which has greatly reduced many analysts still say Vietnam’s one of Southeast Asia’s strongest times this year to spur exports the cost of imported raw materi- economic progress is vulnerable showings for the year. after China depreciated the yuan, als for Vietnam”. On Wednesday, due to high public debts, inef- “This growth rate is very dragging exchange rates lower Vietnam released data showing ficient operation of huge state- important for the Vietnamese across Asia. Exports rose 8.1 per- an annual inflation rate of just owned enterprises and rampant economy in the coming years in cent in the 12 months through 0.63 percent in 2015, the lowest official corruption. For decades, the context of falling world oil December while imports climbed in 14 years. Vietnam is now party the country suffered from runa- prices and instabilities in the 12 percent. to the recently sealed Trans- way inflation - with triple digit international financial markets,” Much of the growth has been Pacific Partnership, the world’s increases in the 1980s and rates Nguyen Bich Lam, director of fueled by a flurry of interna- largest free trade deal between as high as 28.3 percent as recently the General Statistics Office, tional interest with disbursed 12 nations, including the US and as August 2008. Employees load products on to shelves at a Fivimart supermarket in Hanoi. told reporters in Hanoi. Many foreign investment surging 17.4 Japan. As the poorest of the TPP AFP SUNDAY 27 DECEMBER 2015 20 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com BUSINESS Dollar heads for biggest monthly loss since June Greenback’s rally derails after Federal Reserve’s recent rate hike

NEW YORK: The dollar’s in a “The expectation is that we’re not counterparts in Europe and Japan lar,” said Matt Weller, an analyst funk. United States currency is going to see aggressive tighten- carry out unprecedented stimu- at Gain Capital Holdings Inc.’s headed for its biggest monthly ing and that’s really impacting the lus. Yet investors are looking past Forex.com unit in Grand Rap- loss since June after the Federal dollar - that’s what we’re going the Fed’s liftoff and contemplat- ids, Michigan. “That could be a Reserve raised its target from to see” going into year-end, said ing a landscape of low US interest headwind for the next couple of near zero on December 16 and Sireen Harajli, a currency strate- rates for years to come. Trad- weeks.” underscored that it will proceed gist at Mizuho Bank Ltd in New ers expect about two Fed rate Generally, a stronger dol- gradually with additional inter- York. increases in 2016, futures indicate. lar would be welcome in places est-rate increases. The Bloomberg Dollar Spot That’s short of the four boosts such as Japan and Europe, where The message from the Fed, Index, which tracks the US cur- that Fed projections indicate. central banks’ bids to kick-start combined with European Cen- rency against 10 major peers, has Hedge funds reduced net futures economic growth have been com- tral Bank stimulus measures that lost 0.9 percent this month. The positions that profit from gains in plicated by rising local currencies. were less robust than some inves- greenback is down 3.7 percent the dollar versus a basket of eight But a rising dollar tends to hurt tors anticipated, have led dollar at $1.0971 per euro and 2.3 per- currencies to 322,224 contracts emerging economies by making bulls to retreat. cent to 120.32 yen as of Friday as of December 15, the smallest dollar-denominated commodities Large speculators such as in Tokyo. in about a month, according to exports more expensive to foreign hedge funds trimmed futures The index had surged about 9 CFTC data. buyers and debt in the US cur- bets on greenback gains the past percent this year through Novem- “There is still some year-end rency more expensive to service. three weeks, Commodity Futures ber as investors anticipated that rebalancing for many large port- A person holding US dollars. Trading Commission data show. the Fed would tighten policy while folio managers away from the dol- BLOOMBERG

Al Bahria to boost residential connectivity UAE to set up Chinese

DOHA: In line with the Urban ered an important future land- Planning Council’s (UPC) Plan mark that will attract people to yuan clearing centre Al Gharbia 2030 vision, the first the area and pave the way for the mixed-use development in Mirfa, appropriate development of the DUBAI: The United Arab Emir- three-year agreement to swap Al Wajeha Al Bahria, will boost Mirfa coastline. The UPC worked ates plans to establish a centre for up to 35bn yuan ($5.42bn) worth residential connectivity to the closely with the developer to iden- clearing transactions in the yuan, of their currencies, and China stunning coastline of the West- tify how value could be added to the central bank said yesterday, included the UAE in its RMB ern Region, said the company the planning submission for the becoming the second country in Qualified Foreign Institutional yesterday. benefit of the community, before the Middle East to do so as Chi- Investor scheme.The central bank The Al Wajeha Al Bahria granting approval. na’s economic ties with the region did not say when the UAE clear- mixed-use development – the first As a result, the project will now boom. ing centre might be established or project within the Mirfa Master feature a beachfront promenade Qatar opened the region’s give further details. At present, Plan – includes mixed-use blocks for walkers and cyclists that con- first such clearing centre, which most of the Gulf’s wealthy oil and a number of villas and com- nects Al Wajeha Al Bahria with can handle all stages of a cur- and gas exporters’ currencies munity facilities. Al Wajeha Al other planned projects on the rency transaction, in April. The are pegged to the dollar, and Bahria is the first housing and Mirfa coastline. “Al Wajeha Al announcement by the UAE, the most of their huge foreign cur- retail project in the Mirfa beach Bahria is a good example of how second largest Arab economy rency reserves are denominated area of Al Gharbia (Abu Dhabi’s the UPC successfully collaborates after Saudi Arabia, follows the in dollars. But the yuan looks set Western Region). It has been with developers to ensure the A computer generated image of the project. International Monetary Fund’s to play a growing role in trade, enhanced to feature a pedestrian needs of the community are met,” decision last month to admit the investment and financing. promenade and large areas of said Mohamed Al Khadar, Execu- pathways – we are confident that ity to implement a road network yuan into its Special Drawing Trade between China and the public space, as part of the Abu tive Director, Urban Development this will accentuate the living in and around the Mirfa coast- Rights basket. UAE has been expanding at an Dhabi Urban Planning Council’s and Estidama Sector, UPC. experience for its residents. line area to serve Al Wajeha Al This could help encourage average annual rate of about 35 (UPC) review of the planning “The UPC’s Urban Develop- “In line with community needs, Bahria, which has paved the way other countries to use the cur- percent in the past decade and application. ment and Estidama Sector con- the project will be a new attrac- for future development to take rency for reserves, trade and may hit $16bn this year, China’s Located on a site between tinuously works to add value to tion for Mirfa residents and local place. The Urban Development investment. Sheikh Mohammed official Xinhua news agency Mirfa Beach and Mirfa City, the urban developments by liais- visitors to enjoy the amenities and Estidama Sector assess each bin Zayed al-Nahayan, the Crown reported. In another sign of grow- scheme is within Mirfa, one of ing closely with the developer provided. Given its location adja- project in line with the individual Prince of Abu Dhabi, signed a ing regional interest in the yuan, the seven key settlements that to enhance their plans. On Al cent to the future Mirfa Beach framework plan for the region, as memorandum of understanding the Dubai Gold and Commodities feature in Plan Al Gharbia 2030. Wajeha Al Bahria, a stronger link development, these residents well as the UPC’s suite of policies for the planned UAE clearing cen- Exchange said last month it would Wajeha Al Bahria is significant between the residential part of will have easy access to one of and manuals to create attractive, tre when he visited China earlier launch a yuan futures contract in in meeting the growing housing the development and the natural Al Gharbia’s natural assets.” he integrated and sustainable devel- this month, the central bank said December, subject to regulatory and community needs of the Al beachfront and landscaped areas said. The UPC also worked with opments. in a statement. During that visit, approvals. Gharbia region, and is consid- has been created through shaded the Western Region Municipal- THE PENINSULA China and the UAE renewed a REUTERS

Netflix CEO Hastings Apple seeks UAE’s retail value for toys and $180m more sees 2016 salary dip from Samsung in games to grow 11pc in 2015 LOS ANGELES: Netflix Inc worldwide, up 30 percent from a DOHA: The future looks bright and community centres is also 70 new items across four collec- plans to pay its chief executive year earlier. patent dispute for the UAE children’s toy sec- ramping up demand. tions, as it looks to triple its sales officer, Reed Hastings, a slightly Netflix has soared 142 percent tor, as a growing population cou- With an $80 per capita spend revenue over the next two years. smaller salary next year and this year, compared with little SAN FRANCISCO: Apple Inc pled with a continuous increase on toys and games – more than “In 2014, our business volume a much larger potential stock change for the S&P 500. With its asked a US judge to award it in tourism steers the country’s Japan, Spain and Italy – the UAE in the Middle East was worth option award. The video-stream- market value exceeding $50bn, about $180m more in its long- toys and games market into a $1 is developing into a prime market $250,000, and we’re looking to ing service, the top performer in Netflix is now worth more than running smartphone patent war bn industry, according to a recent for international toy manufactur- increase this to $750,000 by 2016,” the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index CBS Corp, Viacom Inc and AMC with Samsung Electronics Com- study. ers eager to expand their presence said Kleinsteuber. “Plush toys are in 2015, will pay its billionaire Networks Inc combined. The pany. A report by analysts Euromoni- in the country and further afield very popular in the region, partic- CEO $900,000 in salary in 2016, stock fell 0.7 percent to $117.33 The request follows a $548m tor International said the UAE’s into surrounding Gulf markets. ularly in the UAE, where tourists down from $1m this year. at the close in New York. judgment that the Korean hand- retail value for toys and games, Plush toy manufacturer Wild can buy soft toys that are easy to His annual stock-option alloca- Unlike many chief executives, set maker paid this month. Two which was worth $686m in 2014, Planet is among the brands that carry back home. tion will rise to $19m from $13.7m, Hastings, 55, does not receive a weeks later, Samsung asked the is projected to grow 11 percent in will line-up their latest range of “Retail space for children’s toys the Los Gatos, California-based cash bonus. The options Netflix US Supreme Court to overturn 2015 to be worth $762m. children’s toys and games at the and games will increase, and we company said in a filing Thursday. awards are also fully vested, so he the bulk of the award in what By 2019 the retail value, which upcoming Playworld and Paper- anticipate meeting a wide range The actual value of the options doesn’t have to wait to sell them. would be the court’s first case includes traditional children’s world Middle East 2016 trade of traders, wholesalers, distribu- changes based on the perform- Hastings is worth an estimated involving design patents in 120 toys and games along with video show in Dubai. tors, and retailers at Paperworld ance of Netflix shares. While $2bn, according to data com- years. games, will be worth $1.06bn, The Portuguese company will Middle East 2016 as we build much of the conventional pay-TV piled by Bloomberg. Netflix is an The additional $180m is based growing at a compound annual be one of many global manufac- on our presence in the market,” industry is losing viewers, Netflix American multinational provider on a product-by- product calcula- growth rate of 9 percent. turers at the annual three-day added Kleinsteuber. has expanded its online service of on-demand Internet streaming tion for five devices Samsung sold The UAE’s rising birth rate event, which takes place from 1-3 The retail value for children’s overseas and continues to add media available to viewers in all of after a federal court jury in San and high number of young work- March 2016 at the Dubai Inter- toys and games in the UAE subscribers, even with increased North and South America, Aus- Jose, California, found in August ing adults is having a positive national Convention and Exhibi- includes traditional toys and competition from companies such tralia, New Zealand, Japan, and 2012 that the Galaxy maker had impact on the market according tion Centre. Pedro Kleinsteuber, games and video game hardware as Amazon.com Inc and Hulu. parts of Europe. infringed Apple patents. to the August 2015 report, while Export Manager at Wild Planet, and software. Netflix finished the third quar- the influx of retail space added said the company is planning to ter with 69.2 million subscribers BLOOMBERG BLOOMBERG to the country’s network of malls launch in the Middle East market THE PENINSULA

FedEx attracts consumer scorn over late delivery of goods

HOUSTON: Greg Richmond to Overland asking them to find lak declined to provide details center to pick it up himself. No with winter weather to leave UPS monitoring package volumes ordered two wool caps from Over- a different shipper next year,” on how many packages were thanks, he said. “I’m not driving unable to meet its on-time prom- and could ask “a small fraction” land Sheepskin Co on December Richmond, 51, said by telephone. still held up in the FedEx net- around on Christmas morning ises, triggering an avalanche of of workers to sort or make deliv- 22 to give to his wife for Christ- “I’d be reluctant to order some- work, how many employees were to the suburbs trying to find a social-media complaints. The eries on Friday. That precaution mas and asked for overnight thing from a company that uses on duty Friday and how many package that was supposed to be National Retail Federation has turned out to be unnecessary, and delivery to ensure a pre- holiday FedEx.”. FedEx is “doing every- packages might not be delivered delivered on Wednesday,” said forecast a 3.7 percent increase in Christmas shipments reached arrival. On Friday, at home in thing possible” to move Christ- until after Christmas. On Twit- Richmond, who works for a non- holiday spending this year, and consumers in time, spokeswoman Chicago, he was still waiting for mas shipments before the holiday ter, where the hashtag #fedexfail profit education company. merchants rolled out discounts Peggy Gardner said by telephone FedEx to show up. ends, spokesman Jim Masilak was trending, dozens of custom- FedEx’s efforts to complete - including on shipping costs - Friday. UPS made deliveries late Two years ago, United Parcel said by e-mail Friday, a day after ers complained about not getting Christmas deliveries reflect the early to grab their share. This into the day Thursday, she said. Service Inc found itself under the Memphis, Tennessee-based gifts in time. increasing importance of online year, 90 percent of all retailers “This is obviously a holiday for fire from consumers for failing to company warned that severe Richmond received his deliv- orders as a source of holiday are providing free delivery for at the company, and we want our deliver some packages in time for weather was disrupting service. ery on Christmas evening, he gifts - and the extreme time- least some online purchases, up employees to be able to enjoy it Christmas. Now FedEx Corpora- Drivers are making deliver- confirmed on Twitter. He had sensitivity of those shipments. It from 78 percent in 2014, accord- with their families,” Gardner tion is being excoriated on social ies Friday in some markets, and been told his package probably said “heavier than planned last- ing to HRC Advisory. said. “The network ran very media from customers miss- counters at FedEx Express sta- wouldn’t arrive until Monday, minute shipment volumes” also UPS, which refined its peak- smooth. We’re not operating ing everything from clothes to tions across the US are open until unless he wanted to drive 30 added to the delays. In 2013, a season strategy this year, said today”. food. “I already wrote an e-mail 1 pm for customer pickups. Masi- minutes to a FedEx distribution late e-commerce surge converged before the holiday that it was BLOOMBERG SUNDAY 27 DECEMBER 2015 BUSINESS VIEWS www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 21 The online customer Year of maybe-real 7pc review is broken By Spencer Soper and Jing Cao growth in China ike many people, Jared Andrews finds online customer reviews frustrating and often unhelpful. “There’s usually someone who absolutely loves the product and someone By Justin Fox growth figures would not show such a pre- Shirky, the noted Internet theorist who Lelse who absolutely hates it, which makes you wonder if cipitous fall,” one official said, according to has been teaching at New York University’s the person who loves it is also the person selling it,” said Andrews, HINA is going to meet its eco- China Daily. Shanghai campus. Shirky concluded that: 34, a database administrator in Seattle. nomic growth target of about 7 * Two independent measures of Chinese A linear model that treats “understand- Andrews typifies the love-hate relationship American consumers percent for 2015, Sheng Laiyun of industrial production, the flash purchasing ing” as a thing that people have more or less have with customer reviews, which — for better and worse — have the National Bureau of Statistics managers index compiled by Markit Eco- of doesn’t make much sense, especially for come to define the online shopping experience. People count on reassured the world a few days nomics and the China Minxin PMI compiled something as complex as a country. There them to find the perfect Christmas gift and the best burger joint. Cago. “China’s economy,” Sheng said, “still has by China Minsheng Banking Corp. and the are people who overstate their comprehen- Yet they hate navigating through anonymous reviews — including strong intrinsic tenacity, huge potential and China Academy of New Supply-side Eco- sion in every field, but there are also some suspiciously over-the-top rants and raves — in search of meaning- ample leeway.” nomics, were discontinued suddenly after areas where having a spectator’s perch, ful insights. He’s probably right about the tenacity and showing much sharper declines than official access to additional information, and free- Growing scepticism about the validity of online reviews is a chal- the potential. I’m not exactly sure what he PMI readings. dom from local pieties allows outsiders to lenge for companies like Yelp and Angie’s List, which have both means by “ample leeway.” Could he be say- The concern isn’t so much that China’s understand things the locals often don’t. lost favour on Wall Street. Waiting in the wings are heavyweights ing the statistical agency has the leeway to economic strength is largely fictional, as From my faraway spectator’s perch, the Facebook and IBM, as well as startups like MunchAdo and Mona, tweak the numbers to make sure they work? was the case with the Soviet Union before main thing that I think I understand that all vowing to deploy new technology that makes reviews more use- The suspicion that China’s economic sta- its fall. A new “Data Quality Index” from maybe people in China don’t is that countries ful and prevents unscrupulous businesses from gaming the system tistics are as reflective of aspiration as of World Economics puts China in a halfway- going through rapid economic development with fake ones. reality has come up a lot this eventful year. respectable 40th place for the reliability of inevitably run into trouble. It might be a When Yelp arrived in 2004, it was one of the first companies to Here are three fun statistical tales from the its gross domestic product data, just behind financial panic, a political crisis, a period of build a successful business entirely around online reviews and apply past couple of months: Mexico and ahead of Croatia. stagnation or all three. This trouble doesn’t the concept to the service industry. Today, the San Francisco-based * When an interviewer from the China But in its desire to maintain the percep- have to mean an end to progress, but it does company attracts 168 million monthly visitors looking for feedback Times asked economist Liu Wei, president of tion that it has everything under control, the bring an interruption, and often a change about hair salons, taco shops and a host of other businesses. Renmin University in Beijing and an adviser Communist Party of China does seem to have of course. All those eyeballs haven’t insulated Yelp, however. Amid growing to Chinese President Xi Jinping, about claims been at least smoothing the numbers. The China’s economic policymakers have been competition for the local ads that generate about 45 percent of sales, from outside analysts that Chinese growth most obvious parallel for a Western reader, astute students of what has worked and the company cut its revenue forecast in late July, prompting a selloff was closer to 4.5 percent, he responded, as I wrote in October, is “that of a corpora- what hasn’t in other countries, and they’ve that erased a quarter of its value. The shares have yet to recover. according to a translation by Chinascope: tion that’s been on a long run of consist- definitely found a way around the financial- Yelp is a prime example of what ails the online review business. “That may be the real number. To be honest, ent earnings growth, but is showing signs crisis-every-decade-or-so cycle that charac- The company has a history of controversy, from allegations of even if it is 4.5 percent or 5 percent, do not of sputtering.” terized economic development in the UK and receiving payment to remove negative reviews and push up positive be afraid. The key is whether the economy So what are we to make of this weird, the US during the 19th century. Annual GDP ones to misrepresenting its business to inflate the stock. can actually endure it.” weird year for China? growth has topped 7 percent every year since After complaints early on that its reviews were unhelpful, the * Several local officials from Northeast Last year, on the question-and-answer 1991 and it looks like, officially at least, it will company has tried to curate them. Algorithms sort the reviews China told Xinhua news agency that reports site Quora, someone asked, “Why do some hit that target again in 2015. But continuing into “recommended,” which appear front and centre, and “not of sharp recent drops in economic growth in non-Chinese claim to understand China at or near that pace, uninterrupted, for years recommended,” which are hidden from view and don’t affect the their provinces came about because they’d when most Chinese don’t understand their and years to come? I don’t buy it. rating. Consumers and businesses alike have griped about the fil- been faking the numbers before. “If the own nation?” There were a lot of interest- tering process — reviewers because they feel their opinions are past data had not been inflated, the current ing responses; my favourite came from Clay BLOOMBERG being unfairly stifled; businesses because they feel misrepresented. In October, South Park, the influential animated comedy series, satirized the growing tension between businesses and the site’s anonymous reviewers, who can tank sales with one scathing com- ment. In “You’re Not Yelping,” Cartman plays a Yelp reviewer try- ing to extort free Mexican food in exchange for a five-star review. Julie Markert, a florist, says the ability to obfuscate comments without clear standards and processes gives Yelp too much power to shape a business’s image. For her business, as many as 46 indi- viduals’ opinions aren’t accounted for in the Yelp rating. Instead, 16 form the basis of the shop’s 2.5 stars. Markert says she’s isn’t looking for 100 percent approval but wants a more balanced view of her business. Yelp says it helps small businesses get discovered by more peo- ple, helping them compete against chain restaurants with bigger marketing budgets. To make reviews more useful for consumers, the site now shows whether a rating is trending up or down — a way to gauge whether or not a given business is making changes based on reviewer feedback. Facebook is experimenting with a feature that lets users search for local businesses, including nail salons, restaurants and plumbers, and see results that include customer reviews and star rankings. The feature looks to add the credibility of reviews linked to some- one’s social networking account as opposed to an anonymous profile. The concept appeals to Markert, who says consumers using Facebook better understand the personality and preferences of the person offering advice and have more information than a one-off review can ever provide. Several startups are rethinking the customer review. MunchAdo, which bills itself as a food-discovery platform, helps restaurants connect bad reviews with the dates, times and circumstances so they can make changes when appropriate. “They’re not able to connect the review with a transaction,” MunchAdo CEO Puneet Talwar said. “That’s often the first thing we hear from restaurants.” Last month, IBM unveiled a new smartphone app — IBM Watson Trend — that puts an artificial intelligence spin on the consumer review. The app examines 10,000 data sources, including social media networks, blogs, shopping forums and review sites, to spot trends in consumer electronics, toys and health and fitness. The data is crunched into a 1-100 rating scale, which includes a sampling of reviews and an explanation of what’s driving the trend.

BLOOMBERG Cartoon Arts International / The New York Times Syndicate Savers in dark over Sahara’s latest schemes By Sumeet Chatterjee Sahara and its founder Subrata in older Sahara savings plans to ner of Mundkur Law Partners. tigating the Sahara bond scheme fresh money through cooperatives Roy have been under scrutiny for switch into the new credit coop- A few certificates did state that the Supreme Court would later has increased by $2bn the amount N 2004, Khitish Kumar Pan- years over its financial products, erative schemes. investors could expect an interest declare illegal. of money it owes its investors when dey took 10,000 rupees ($150) including for possible money Sajan Poovayya, a founder rate of 10-15 percent for a one- Sahara has started three more their plans mature, according to out of his pension and put it laundering. Roy has built a vast of Bangalore-based law firm year deposit. That compares to credit cooperatives since Janu- two senior Sahara employees. Iinto a savings plan run by empire from his small deposit Poovayya & Co, says Sahara could 7-8.5 percent offered by commer- ary 2014: Humara India Credit The total has now grown to India’s embattled Sahara conglom- schemes. But he has spent the be violating the law if it is forcing cial banks. Cooperative Society, Stars Multi- $7.5bn — and includes the $5.4bn erate. The Sahara agent told him last 21 months in New Delhi’s investors to convert their matur- Vimal Kumar Sinha, the head purpose Cooperative Society and the Supreme Court has ordered his money would triple in 10 years. Tihar Jail for not complying with ing deposits into a credit coopera- of Sahara’s Patna operations, said Saharayn E-Multipurpose Society. Sahara to repay investors from the Sahara India Pariwar had a Supreme Court order to return tive plan. some recent Sahara payments to The credit cooperatives division 2008-11 scheme, the senior Sahara become one of India’s most suc- 360bn rupees ($5.4bn) to inves- Most of the nearly two dozen customers were delayed because of said it had asked for an explana- employees said. cessful companies over the past tors who put money in a 2008-11 investors in the old Sahara plans difficulties the company faced as a tion from Sahara Credit Coop- This disclosure contradicts what three decades by turning tiny Sahara time deposit plan. stopped short of accusing the result of the Supreme Court case. erative Society after receiving the company has told the Supreme deposits into dreams for small The Supreme Court said the conglomerate of forcing them to He said some Sahara agents complaints of non-payment from Court: that it has already repaid farmers, rickshaw pullers and 2008-11 plan violated market convert their plans. But they said were probably coaxing investors to investors. The division said it 95 percent of its roughly 30 million food vendors with little financial disclosure regulations on raising Sahara officials refused to allow convert their savings into another had not received a response from investors in the 2008-11 scheme. knowledge. capital, including failure to file a them to redeem their matured financial plan without the compa- Sahara Credit Cooperative Society. “It was always a one-man show But when Pandey went to prospectus — a legal document deposits until they agreed to do so. ny’s knowledge. Pressuring investors to transfer at Sahara,” said Kundanlal Sah- the Sahara ranch to redeem his that provides details about a finan- In at least one case, the inves- Sahara turned to credit coop- their deposits from older Sahara gal, a Sahara agent in Patna who deposit, the office told him he cial product for investors — with tor claimed her money had been eratives mainly because of their financial plans to a credit coopera- has stopped trying to sell the could have 15,000 rupees imme- the markets regulator. transferred from her old Sahara relatively weak oversight, said tive is against regulations, a senior new deposit schemes because he diately — if he agreed to transfer Like Sahara’s now banned plan to a new credit cooperative current and former senior Sahara official at the credit cooperatives is being badgered by people ask- the remaining 15,000 rupees he 2008-11 scheme, the new deposit society despite her opposition. employees. Those that operate division said. ing for their money and because was owed to Humara India Credit plans are sold through the group’s Most of the savings certificates across state lines are registered While most credit cooperatives Sahara has stopped paying him Cooperative Society Ltd. network of agents across the investors showed make no men- not with the central bank but with are owned by their members, commissions. Humara is a new Sahara country. They collect deposits tion of the maturity date or the the credit cooperatives division at Sahara’s credit cooperatives have “Now that the man has gone fund-raising vehicle with opera- from investors for a fixed period interest to be paid on maturity. the Ministry of Agriculture. operational links to the conglom- to jail everything has come to a tional ties to the conglomerate, of time and promise to return the Such omissions violate Indian The first of the Sahara credit erate, according to investment standstill and no one knows what according to investor documents money at interest rates higher laws requiring companies that run cooperatives, Sahara Credit Coop- documents from Sahara’s cus- will happen to the investors or the reviewed by Reuters and inter- than what banks offer. savings deposit plans to clearly erative Society Ltd, was set up in tomers and data at the ministry agents like us,” Sahgal said. views with Sahara agents in dif- Sahara agents and branch offi- mention all the terms, said Ram- 2010, around the time when India’s of corporate affairs. ferent parts of India. cials are trying to get investors anand Mundkur, managing part- markets regulator started inves- Sahara’s recent moves to raise REUTERS SUNDAY 27 DECEMBER 2015 22 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com BREAK TIME EASY SUDOKU CROSSWORD 12345 67891011121314 THAW NARY THI CK

15 16 17 NILE ISEE AISLE UGL I SHEA I DLER 18 19 20 THI GHSOFREL I EF 21 22 23 24 HBAR LEN ANC ONECARD BET 25 26 27 28 29 SICEM HOO ARLO 30 31 32 33 THUMBEROLYMPI CS

34 35 36 37 RIPS XI I IONIC ALS RUGRATS EDA 38 39 40 41 42 RED SETS 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 THEMESOKAY TOME TRACE I LSA EMAG 51 52 53 54 55 56 SOSAD FD I C AR I A 57 58 59 60 PUPPY TENT MI LL Yesterday’s answer 61 62 63 64 65 ANSWER TO PREVIOUS PUZZLE 66 67 68 69 72 Semblance 28 What par isn’t 73 Roscoe for most golfers Easy Sudoku Puzzles: Place a digit from 1 to 70 71 72 9 in each empty cell so every row, every column 74 “Arrivederci!” 31 Sailors’ ropes and every 3x3 box contains all the digits 1 to 9. 73 74 75 75 Professional pitch man? 32 Code material 36 Onetime lover of Riker on DOWN “Star Trek: T.N.G.” ACROSS 35 Studio fee 1 Detox, e.g. 39 Some of the French? 1 Father of Erebus and Nyx, in 37 Part of a fasces 2 Affliction with many folk 40 Octave, for one Greek myth 38 P remedies 41 Soba alternative 6 Depression common during 43 Word after open or hot 3 Needs for many digital 42 By that logic childhood 46 Overnight, say HYPER SUDOKU cameras 43 Slice of ham? 12 New Deal prez 47 Postgraduate ordeals 4 United 44 “Tell me about it!” 15 Tropical vine 51 “I’m dead” 5 Beach blanket? 45 L 16 Mountain overlooking Yerevan 53 F 6 Cocksure challenge 48 Wind-blown 17 Buried treasure? 57 Trivial Pursuit edition 7 Containing element #77 49 Tough pill to swallow? 18 K 59 Opposite of drop out 8 Buddy 50 Puma, e.g. 20 Actress Thurman 60 Ectoplasm, e.g. 9 Kidnappee, e.g. 52 Bear ___ 21 Buddy 61 Family feud? 10 Partner of great 54 Devout supplication 22 Bit of derring-do 63 James Merritt ___, pioneering 11 Root words 55 Enamored with 23 Advanced course lithographer 12 S 56 Proletarian 25 Invalid 65 Setting for a grassy knoll 13 Classic Nintendo game 27 Protein constituent, informally 58 Deli selection 66 Choler similar to Tetris 29 “My Dinner With ___” (1981 62 Word on a headstone 67 What six of this puzzle’s clues 14 Hit back? film) have been written with? 64 Use a scalpel on 19 Society affairs 30 W 70 Where DeWitt Clinton was 68 Corp. milestone 24 Caravansary 33 Frank refusal? mayor: Abbr. 69 Big bird 26 Novelist O’Flaherty 34 Endeavor 71 Easily attachable

Yesterday’s answer

How to play Hyper Sudoku: A Hyper Sudoku Puzzle is solved by filling the numbers from 1 to 9 into the blank cells. A Hyper Sudoku has unlike Sudoku 13 regions (four regions overlap with the nine standard regions). In all regions the numbers from 1 to 9 can appear only once. Otherwise, a Hyper Sudoku is solved like a normal Sudoku. BABY BLUES BABY

NOVO How to play Kakuro: SHOWING AT The kakuro grid, unlike in sudoku, can be of any SCREEN 1 The Peanuts Movie (2D/Animation) 11:00am, 1:20, 3:40, 6:00, 8:20 & 10:40pm KAKURO SCREEN 2 Point Break (2D/Action) 10:00am, 12:20, 2:40, 5:00, 7:20, 9:40 & 11:55pm VILLAGGIO & CITY CENTER size. It has rows and columns, and dark cells TEL: 444933989 / 444517001 like in a crossword. And, just like in a crossword, SCREEN 3 Point Break (3D/Action) 12:00noon, 4:00, 8:00 & 11:45pm some of the dark cells will contain numbers. Some SCREEN 4 Paparazzi (2D/Arabic) 10:00am, 12:15, 2:30, 4:45, 7:00, 9:15, 11:30pm SCREEN 5 Star Wars: The Force Awakens (2D/Action) cells will contain two numbers. 10:00am, 12:40, 3:20, 6:00, 8:45 & 11:30pm However, in a crossword the numbers reference SCREEN 6 Love The Coopers (2D/Comedy) clues. In a kakuro, the numbers are all you get! 11:00am, 1:10, 3:20, 5:40, 9:50pm & 12:00midnight They denote the total of the digits in the row or SCREEN 7 The Peanuts Movie (2D/Animation) 11:00am, 1:00, 3:00 & 5:00pm column referenced by the number. Room (2D/Drama) 7:00am, 9:15 & 11:40pm Within each SCREEN 8 Dilwale (2D/Hindi) 11:00am, 2:00, 5:00, 8:00 & 11:00pm collection of cells SCREEN 9 Star Wars: The Force Awakens (3D IMAX/Action) - called a run - any 10:15am, 12:45, 3:30, 6:15, 9:00 & 11:45pm of the numbers 1 SCREEN 10 Point Break (2D/Action) 10:30am, 3:40 & 9:00pm to 9 may be used Star Wars: The Force Awakens (2D/Action) 1:00, 6:20 & 11:40pm but, like sudoku, each number may MALL only be used once. SCREEN 1 The Peanuts Movie (2D/Hindi) 2:30 & 6:00pm Yesterday’s The Good Dinosaur (2D/Animation) 4:15pm answer Belle & Sebastian 2 (2D/Adventure) 7:45pm Morning Star (2D/Action) 9:30pm Cartoon Arts International / The New York Times Syndicate Room (2D/Drama) 11:15pm SCREEN 2 Soukhyam (2D/Telugu) 2:00pm Love The Coopers (2D/Comedy) 4:30pm Star Wars VII: The Force Awakens (2D/Action) 6:30pm Dilwale (2D/Hindi) 8:45pm Point Break (2D/Sports) 11:30pm SCREEN 3 Pasanga 2 (2D/Tamil) 2:15pm Paparazzi (2D/Arabic) 4:30pm Point Break (2D/Sports) 6:45pm El Leila El Kebira (2D/Drama) ALL IN THE MIND 9:00pm Thanga Magan (2D/Tamil) 11:15pm Can you find the hidden words? They may be horizontal, LANDMARK vertical, diagonal, forwards or backwards. SCREEN 1 Thanga Magan (2D/Tamil) 2:15pm Paparazzi (2D/Arabic) 4:30pm Dilwale (2D/Hindi) 6:30pm Point Break (2D/Sports) 9:15 & 11:30pm SCREEN 2 The Good Dinosaur (2D/Animation) 2:15pm The Peanuts Movie (2D/Hindi) 4:00 & 5:45pm Belle & Sebastian 2 (2D/Adventure) 7:30pm Star Wars VII: The Force Awakens (2D/Action) 9:15pm Morning Star (2D/Action) 11:30pm Hoy en la Historia SCREEN 3 Soukhyam (2D/Telugu) 2:15pm Love The Coopers (2D/Comedy) 4:45pm Room (2D/Drama) 7:00pm El Leila El Kebira (2D/Drama) December 27, 537 9:00pm Pasanga 2 (2D/Tamil) 11:15pm Istanbul’s famous Hagia Sophia ROYAL PLAZA was inaugurated. Initially a Greek Orthodox cathedral, it became a SCREEN 1 The Peanuts Movie (2D/Hindi) 2:15pm mosque under the Ottoman Belle & Sebastian 2 (2D/Adventure) 4:00pm Empire and is now a museum The Good Dinosaur (2D/Animation) 5:45pm Point Break (2D/Sports) 7:30 & 11:30pm 1845:      Morning Star (2D/Action) 9:45pm     SCREEN 2 Love The Coopers (2D/Comedy) 2:30pm      Paparazzi (2D/Arabic) 4:30pm Room (2D/Drama) 6:45pm 1922: Japan commissioned the Morning Star (2D/Action) 9:00pm world’s first purpose built aircraft Star Wars VII: The Force Awakens (2D/Action) 11:00pm AMBROSIA, BLANCMANGE, BON BON, BRITTLE, carrier, named Hosho BUTTERSCOTCH, CANDY, CANDY APPLE, CANDY FLOSS, ASIAN TOWN 1945:       CARAMEL, CHEWING GUM, CHOCOLATE, CONFECTION, Dilwale (Hindi) 7:00pm          Pasanga 2 (Tamil) CONFITURE, CREAM, DESSERT, FONDANT, FUDGE, 5:45 & 10:45pm Pathemari (2D/Malayalam) 11:00pm GUMDROP, HONEY, ICE CREAM, JELLY BEAN, JUNKET, 1966: The Cave of Swallows, the world’s largest known cave shaft, Thanga Magan (2D/Tamil) 8:15 & 9:15pm LOLLIPOP, MARSHMALLOW, MARZIPAN, MOLASSES, was discovered in Aquismon, San Salt Mango Tree (2D/Malayalam) 8:30pm MOUSSE, NECTAR, NONPAREIL, NOUGAT, PRALINE, Bajirao Mastani (2D/Hindi) 4:00 & 10:00pm Mama Manchu (2D/Telugu) Luis Potosi, Mexico ROCK, SACCHARINE, SUGAR, SWEETMEAT, SWEETS, 3:15 & 6:00pm Soukhyam (2D/Telugu) 6:30pm SYRUP, TOFFEE, TREACLE. ! "#  '%&'!(#  SUNDAY 27 DECEMBER 2015 SPORT www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 23 Yachting: Comanche grabs early lead Sydney-Hobart race: We have the hammer down, doing 29 knots. We’ve got to go fast, says skipper Ken Read

SYDNEY: American super-yacht travel down the east coast of Aus- Comanche was leading the fleet tralia, saying those at the back of in Australia’s Sydney to Hobart the pack will see the worst of the yesterday, after bolting out of the weather. harbour at the start of the gruel- “For the leading boats, the ling 628-nautical-mile (1,163 kilo- further south they can get the metre)race. better,” Michael Logan from the Australian rival and 2014 line Bureau of Meteorology said. honours winner Wild Oats XI had “But for the back boats that initially led in the moments after looks like where the gales are the starter’s horn blew, but was and where the change will pack overtaken by supermaxi Perpet- its strongest punch. And the boats ual Loyal before Comanche took furthest south will get the mod- the lead after unfurling her big erating breeze first.” spinaker. It was an eventful beginning to “We have the hammer down, the race, with three yachts retir- doing 29 knots,” skipper Ken Read ing early after collisions shortly reported as Comanche remained after the start, and another a in the lead as she neared Jervis short time later, bringing the fleet Bay later yesterday, taking advan- down to 104. tage of the brisk northerly wind. Among them was Ark323, one “We’ve got to go fast in these of two Chinese entries and one of conditions that suit us and put 27 foreign boats in the race which distance between us and the rest. draws spectators on land and in “The southerly is due in four boats in Sydney on Boxing Day. This photo shows the fleet starting the Sydney to Hobart yacht race in Sydney. Australia’s gruelling Sydney to Hobart race faces choppy seas and to five hours. If it is sailable, we “Ark323, one of two Chinese high winds that “pack a punch” after it got underway yesterday with a record 27 international entries among those vying for honours. should still have the advantage, entries, retired following a colli- and take more miles out of the sion 300 metres after the start. others.” All on board were safe,” race retired at about the same time The strength and duration of Officials have warned of thun- organisers said in a statement. with damage to her starboard the southerly winds is expected derstorms and gales as the fleet Australian boat Cougar II quarter while the British entry to be crucial in determining the Lupa of London also pulled out winner of the race which is organ- with a damaged bow after a col- ised by the Cruising Yacht Club of lision. Australia. “We were sailing on starboard The winds are expected to ease tack from the start and three today, and will be light off the boats got locked together -- we coast of Tasmania as the boats were in the middle with nowhere head to Hobart’s Constitution to go,” Lupa’s tactician Laurent Dock. Pages said. Storms are part and parcel of “This was the worst thing -- the the race, with six people dying, worst feeling -- a stupid accident. five boats sinking and 55 sailors We are shattered -- we came a rescued on a fatal night in 1998 long way. It seems so unfair.” when a deep depression exploded Another boat, M3, also pulled over the fleet in the treacherous out after shattering its forestay, Bass Strait. her crew deciding that the harsh While Comanche remains in weather forecast ruled out a pos- the lead, Wild Oats XI, Ragamuf- sible repair and rejoining of the fin 100, Rambler, Black Jack and race. Perpetual Loyal are still in the Forecasters expect north-east- chase for line honours. erly winds to strengthen to 20 Wild Oats holds the race record Australian rugby international Kurtley Beale (left) works as a crew mem- knots or 30 knots during yester- of one day, 18 hours, 23 minutes In this handout photo from Rolex, Supermaxi yacht Perpetual Loyal ber aboard the maxi yacht Perpetual Loyal during the Sydney to Hobart day evening, with thunderstorms and 12 seconds set in 2012. competes in the Sydney to Hobart yacht race in Sydney yesterday. Yacht race on Sydney Harbour yesterday. and some gusts reaching well over 30 knots. REUTERS

Weightlifting: World champion NBA: Curry the hero as Golden Lovchev backed despite ban

MOSCOW: Russian sports minister Vitali Mutko yesterday threw his support behind world champion weightlifter Aleksey Lovchev who has been banned for suspected doping in the latest controversy to hit the State Warriors emerge winners country’s sports authorities. Lovchev, 26, who won gold in the +105kg category at the world NEW YORK: Stephen Curry championships in Houston last month, tested positive for the banned converted a pair of driving hoops growth hormone Ipamorelin. in the final 80 seconds, lifting He claims he had permission to use a medicine to ease pain from the Golden State Warriors to an a knee injury he was suffering at the time of the tournament where 89-83 victory over the Cleveland he broke the clean-and-jerk and total world records. Cavaliers in a Christmas Day “We are going to give him all the support necessary since he has rematch of the NBA Finals. not been officially found guilty of doping and no decision has been Power forward Draymond taken,” Mutko told a news conference. Green had 22 points and 15 On Thursday, the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) rebounds, and backup guard said that traces of Ipamorelin had been found in Lovchev’s ‘A’ sample. Shaun Livingston saved eight As this constituted a “violation of anti-doping regulations”, he was of his season-best 16 points for provisionally suspended, the IWF said in a statement. a tight fourth quarter, leading Mutko said that Lovchev suffered ruptured knee ligaments a month the Warriors (28-1) to their 14th before the world championships and had authorisation to use a medi- straight home win this season. cine to treat the injury. The Warriors’ 32-game home Lovchev said he was innocent, telling Russian television station winning streak, stretching back Match he was in a state of “absolute shock”. to last season, ties the 1996-97 Friday’s revelations came hot on the heels of Russian track and Chicago Bulls for the seventh- field competitors being banned after their athletics federation was longest of all time. accused of state-sponsored doping. Golden State won despite a The Russian anti-doping authority and Moscow’s anti-doping labo- 6-for-15 shooting effort from ratory were also suspended. star guard Curry, who scored 19 points. REUTERS Forward LeBron James had 25 points on 10-for-26 shooting for the Cavs. Heat 94, Pelicans 88 (over- Lou Williams (23) of the Los Angeles Lakers pursues the ball between Chris Paul (3) and DeAndre Jordan (6) time) of the Los Angeles Clippers in the second half of their NBA game at Staples Centre in Los Angeles, California. Forward Chris Bosh scored a The Clippers defeated the Lakers 94-84. game-high 30 points and grabbed Washington Nationals agree to 10 rebounds to lead the Miami Heat to a 94-88 overtime home Davis delivered a big performance ets relied on their stifling defense points and six assists, and the Los new deal with Murphy victory over the New Orleans with 29 points and 15 rebounds, to defeat the San Antonio Spurs Angeles Clippers beat the Los Pelicans. but missed a long corner jumper 88-84 at Toyota Center. Angeles Lakers 94-84 at Staples WASHINGTON: The Washington Nationals have agreed to a con- Bosh’s 30 points matched his just before the buzzer that could Harden shot just 7-for-21 and Center. tract with former New York Mets second baseman Daniel Murphy season high. have won the game in regulation. missed his first three attempts Shooting guard J.J. Redick (pictured), a report on www.si.com said. Miami guard Dwyane Wade, Bulls 105, Thunder 96 from behind the arc before nail- scored 14 points, forward Blake Fox Sports’s Ken Rosenthal confirmed the who scored 19 points, improved Guard Jimmy Butler scored 23 ing back-to-back treys to push Griffin added 13 points and nine report, adding that the deal is for three years. to 10-1 on Christmas Day. That’s points to lead the Chicago Bulls the Rockets (16-15) to an 84-75 rebounds as the Clippers (17-13) Murphy, 30, set postseason records this year the best record in NBA history to a 105-96 road victory over the lead and their seventh consecu- defeated the Lakers for the eighth for most home runs by a second baseman in one for any player who has played at Oklahoma City Thunder. tive home victory. straight time. postseason (seven), and for the most consecutive least 10 Christmas games. Butler shot 9 of 20 from the Harden finished with 20 points Point guard D’Angelo Russell games with a home run (six). The Heat (17-11) have won field to go along with six rebounds and nine assists while center came off the bench to score a He was named NLCS MVP, helping the Mets seven straight Christmas games. and four assists. Center Pau Gasol Dwight Howard chipped in 11 team-high 16 points with seven reach the World Series before they fell to the Pelicans forward Anthony added 21 points and 13 boards as points and 12 rebounds as Hou- rebounds for the Lakers (5-25), Kansas City Royals. Bulls improved to 16-11. ston snapped the Spurs’ seven- who have dropped 10 of their last Murphy, who started his MLB career with the Thunder forward Kevin Durant game winning streak. 12 games. Mets in 2008, hit .281 with 14 home runs and 73 NBA RESULTS led all scorers with 29 points on Forwards Kawhi Leonard and Forward Kobe Bryant finished RBIs last regular season. The Mets also report- Miami 94 New Orleans 88 11 of 21 shooting. He also collected LaMarcus Aldridge combined for with 12 points for the Lakers, edly will not re-sign outfielder Yoenis Cespedes, Chicago 105 Oklahoma City 96 nine rebounds and seven assists. 38 points and 16 rebounds for the while guard Jordan Clarkson and meaning their third and fourth hitters in their lineup could be else- Rockets 88, Spurs 84 Golden State 89 Cleveland 83 Spurs (25-6). Center Tim Duncan forward Julius Randle chipped in where next season. James Harden drilled consec- added 13 points and 11 rebounds. 11 points each. The Mets won the National League East in 2015, finishing seven Houston 88 San Antonio 84 utive three-pointers down the Clippers 94, Lakers 84 games ahead of the Nationals. LA Clippers 94 LA Lakers 84 stretch and the Houston Rock- Point guard Chris Paul had 23 REUTERS AGENCIES SUNDAY 27 DECEMBER 2015 24 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com SPORT Bishoo injures shoulder in Khawaja, Burns lead Aussie mishap before second Test

MELBOURNE: The West Indies’ disastrous tour of Aus- domination over Windies tralia suffered a further blow with legspinner Devendra Bishoo (pic- tured) suffering a shoulder injury Pair shares 258-run stand, third-highest for the second wicket at MCG on the first morning of the second Test in Melbourne yesterday. MELBOURNE: Usman Khawaja leg for a single. It was the second Bishoo fell heavily while field- and Joe Burns hammered centu- ton of the season for Burns, who ing during practice and was sent ries as Australia again put the scored 129 against New Zealand to hospital for scans on his left West Indies to the sword on the in Brisbane. shoulder as the first session of the opening day of the second Test in He batted for 312 minutes and Boxing Day Test got underway. Melbourne yesterday. hit 16 fours and a six. The hap- The Guyanese legspinner had Fit-again Khawaja hit 144 for less Caribbean tourists again been in line for a return to the his third ton in four Test innings struggled to make any impres- West Indies side but his continued and opener Burns cracked 128 for sion in the rain-delayed Boxing tour participation was in doubt his second Test hundred of the Day showpiece after losing by an with team officials fearing he may season as the Australians reached innings and 212 runs in the first have damaged his rotator cuff. 345 for three at stumps after Hobart Test. The Windies made one change being sent into bat. So far in the series, Australia to the team that crashed to an Skipper Steve Smith was have amassed 928 runs for the innings defeat in the first Test in Gabriel was forced out of the unbeaten on 32 with Hobart Test loss of just seven wickets. Hobart, with allrounder Carlos tour with an ankle injury and was double centurion Adam Voges on “I think it was a decent day for Brathwaite earning his Test debut replaced by uncapped pace bowler 10. Before the lowest Boxing Day us. Showed some improvement in place of injured quick Shannon Miguel Cummins. crowd of 53,389 at the Melbourne bowling-wise. I think tomorrow Gabriel. AFP Cricket Ground in 16 years, Aus- it’s key to come back and start tralia made Windies skipper well. Dot balls and try to build Jason Holder pay dearly for send- some pressure don’t let them It’s all good with McCullum, ing the home side into bat after score as freely and work from winning the toss. there,” Kraigg Brathwaite said. It was another day of triumph The Windies removed danger- says Australia captain Smith for Pakistan-born Khawaja who ous opener David Warner cheaply returned from missing the last for 23 off 12 balls in the fifth over MELBOURNE: Australia skip- two Tests with a hamstring injury of the innings. per Steve Smith (pictured) and to take up where he left off. Warner belted boundaries off his Kiwi counterpart Brendon Khawaja scored 174 and 121 in Kemar Roach’s first three balls McCullum have kissed and made the first two Tests against the before plundering 15 off his up after a minor rift caused by Kiwis last month. opening over. But Warner was critical comments from the New He shared in a stand of 258 out three overs later when his Zealander over Smith’s captaincy runs with Burns in the third- attempted pull shot lobbed to in England. highest partnership for the sec- Samuels, who took three snatches McCullum, writing in a column ond wicket at the famous MCG at the ball before holding the in the Daily Mail in September, ground. catch in the covers. had said the Australia cricket Only two Australian partner- Australia are favoured to win captain “missed a great opportu- ships for the second wicket at the the showpiece Boxing Day Test nity to strike a blow for the spirit MCG were higher - Ian Chappell- and retain the Frank Worrell tro- of cricket” by not withdrawing Bill Lawry’s 298 against the West phy against the struggling tour- an obstructing-the-field appeal Indies in 1968 and Don Bradman- ists. against Ben Stokes in a one-day Bill Woodfull’s 274 against South AFP international at Lord’s. Africa in 1931. McCullum said Smith “showed “I’ll enjoy this moment, a hun- Scoreboard his immaturity” by not withdraw- dred in my first Boxing Day Test, ing the appeal for Stokes’ dis- a 250-odd run partnership with Australia (I innings): missal and said “he may live to Burnsy. I couldn’t have asked for J Burns st Ramdin b K Brathwaite ...... 128 regret it”. NSW in the old Big Bash compe- a lot more on day one,” Khawaja Australian batsman Joe Burns (left) and Usman Khawaja celebrate D Warner c Samuels b Taylor ...... 23 On the eve of the three-test tition about seven years ago, and said. after scoring centuries against the West Indies on the first day of the U Khawaja c Ramdin b Taylor ...... 144 series between the trans-Tasman we’ve also crossed paths a fair bit “I think we’re both probably second cricket Test in Melbourne yesterday. S Smith (batting) ...... 32 rivals in November, Smith said he in the Indian Premier League,” disappointed that we didn’t get A Voges (batting) ...... 10 “was a little bit disappointed” by Smith wrote in the paper. massive ones. But end of the day Extras (LB-3, W-3, NB-2) ...... 8 McCullum’s comments in Eng- “He’s a really good guy, and we’ve done what we needed to keeper Denesh Ramdin just under Shaun Marsh to fit in Khawaja’s Total (for 3 wkts) ...... 345 land, and added: “I didn’t really a magnificent leader who has do to hopefully set up this first six overs from stumps. return despite Marsh hitting his To bat: M Marsh, P Nevill, P Siddle, J Hazle- think it was any of his business.” changed the way the Black Caps innings for Australia to get a big, Khawaja’s runs came off 227 highest Test score of 182 against wood, J Pattinson, N Lyon. But in a column in Australia’s go about their cricket. big total and really drive this balls in 331 minutes with just six the Windies in Hobart. Fall of wickets: 1-29, 2-287, 3-328. Daily Telegraph newspaper Smith “The Kiwi boys came into our game.” fours and a six. Khawaja has not Burns was finally out when he Bowling: Taylor 18-2-83-2; Roach 10-1-53- has revealed the two had healed sheds after every game of the Khawaja had a life on 142 when been dismissed for less than 100 was smartly stumped by Ram- 0; Holder 17-6-33-0 (2nb); C Brathwaite 20- their rift. Smith also paid trib- recent test series and we got Marlon Samuels dropped a chest- in any format of the game since din off part-time spinner Kraigg 1-71-0 (3w); Warrican 16-1-71-0; K ute to the leadership of McCul- to catch up a fair bit. Baz and I high sitter in the covers off Jer- October. Burns also made a per- Brathwaite for 128. Brathwaite 9-1-31-1. lum after the Black Caps skipper broached the topic of what he said ome Taylor. sonal statement with his ton amid Burns reached the triple fig- West Indies: K C Brathwaite, R Chandrika, D recently revealed he would retire about my captaincy during the But Taylor had the last word concerns over his position in the ures first, cracking spinner Jomel M Bravo, M N Samuels, J Blackwood, D Ram- from international cricket at the one-day series in England, and when he snared Khawaja’s wicket side with the return of Khawaja. Warrican through point for three din, J O Holder, C R Brathwaite, K A J Roach, J end of the New Zealand summer. he was totally up-front about it. just two runs later when he was Selectors ultimately decided to runs and Khawaja followed two E Taylor, J A Warrican. “I actually know Baz quite caught down leg-side by wicket- make the tough decision to drop balls later off a misfield at square well - we first played together for AGENCIES NZ bowling production line McCullum launches farewell tour in rollicking form CHRISTCHURCH: Brendon and New Zealand knocked off the a concern for McCullum launched his farewell target with ease. tour in rollicking form yesterday McCullum credited the quick- Sri Lanka with a whirlwind 55 to set up New fire victory to what he described Zealand’s seven-wicket win over as “a truly outstanding bowling CHRISTCHURCH: Just when Sri Lanka in their opening One- performance” by Adam Milne and Sri Lanka thought batting would Day International in Christch- Matt Henry. be easier without new-ball pair urch. “With the new ball in their Tim Southee and Trent Boult In a 25-ball stay at the crease, bands, they were outstanding for after the test series, a more dam- McCullum smacked 11 fours and us and that’s where the winning aging New Zealand duo stepped one six to have Sri Lanka on the of the game was when you’re up to the plate in the first one- ropes before he departed with needing to chase 190 and know dayer between the sides in New Zealand only needing a fur- the wicket is going to be good,” Christchurch yesterday. ther 81 runs in 40 overs. he said. Matt Henry and Adam Milne Martin Guptill posted his 26th Sri Lanka skipper Angelo reduced the visitors to 27 for five half-century on his way to 79 Mathews regretted that his bowl- inside 10 overs at Hagley Oval off 56 deliveries while debutant ers were not as threatening. in the opener of the five-match Henry Nicholls was not out on “It’s not easy to bowl at Bren- series as New Zealand cruised to 23 when the innings ended at the don McCullum and Martin Gup- a seven-wicket victory. end of the 20th over. till,” he said. Henry, who struggled in Aus- New Zealand were set a mod- “They are power hitters and tralia last month and took just est 189 target after Matt Henry they go after the bowling from two wickets for 158 runs in the destroyed the cream of the Sri the very beginning. We just need drawn second test in Perth, pro- Lankan top order in a brief spell to bowl in the right areas more duced an outstanding opening of 16 balls when he took four often.” six-over spell yesterday with wickets for two runs. McCullum, who announced figures of 4-26. He finished with Sri Lanka were eventually before the five-match ODI series 4-49 from 10 overs. Both he and all out for 188 in 47 overs on a began that he will retire from New Zealand’s skipper Brendon McCullum goes for a six during the first one-day international match against Milne regularly clocked in excess wicket that promised runs galore, international cricket in February, Sri Lanka at Hagley Park in Christchurch yesterday. of 140 km per hour, with the fiery Milne exceeding 150 kph on sev- Scoreboard eral deliveries, a far cry from the lived up to his pledge to bow out They fell from 13 without loss Tillakaratne Dilshan, Lahiru 130-140 kph range that Southee SRI LANKA 49-4 (w2); McClenaghan 10-2-40-2 (w3); on top of his game. to 27-5 and then 65-6 before Siri- Thirimanne, Mathews and Dinesh and Boult delivered in the test D Gunathilaka c Ronchi b Milne ...... 8 Bracewell 9-1-37-3; Santner 8-0-32-0. His whirlwind opening partner- wardana (66) and Kulasekara Chandimal. series against Sri Lanka. T Dilshan c Nicholls b Henry ...... 9 NEW ZEALAND ship with Guptill brought up the (58) stemmed the rot. Dilshan (nine) top edged the What was most important for L Thirimanne lbw Henry ...... 1 M Guptill c Kulasekara b Siriwardana ...... 79 New Zealand 100 inside 10 overs. Siriwardana’s dismissal started ball to midwicket where Nicholls New Zealand captain Brendon D Chandimal c Taylor b Henry ...... 5 B McCullum c Lakmal b Siriwardana ...... 55 When New Zealand reached 53 the final slide in which the last celebrated his international debut McCullum, however, was that A Mathews c Latham b Henry ...... 0 T Latham b Dilshan ...... 18 without loss after six overs, Sri four wickets fell for just 25 runs. with a catch above the head, Thir- with test seamer Doug Bracewell, M Siriwardana c McCullum b Bracewell ...... 66 R Taylor (not out) ...... 5 Lankan captain Mathews put Dushmantha Chameera, who was imanne faced 19 deliveries for one who impressed yesterday with C Kapugedera c Santner b Bracewell...... 8 H Nicholls (not out) ...... 23 himself on to try to arrest the not out 13, was the only other run and Mathews went first ball. 3-37, and left-arm quick Mitchell N Kulasekera c Ronchi b McClenaghan ...... 58 Extras (LB-1, W-10) ...... 11 run onslaught. batsman to reach double figures Chandimal was dropped on five McClenaghan, he now has a deep A Mendis c Ronchi b McClenaghan ...... 4 Total (for 3 wkts in 21 overs) ...... 191 McCullum had other ideas and in the Lankan innings. off Milne’s bowling, but Henry pace bowling unit to choose from. D Chameera (not out) ...... 13 Fall of wickets: 1-108, 2-162, 3-164. took 16 off Mathews’ over and 12 Milne, having fully recovered claimed the wicket four balls later “I think both Adam Milne and S Lakmal c Latham b Bracewell ...... 8 Did not bat: M Santner, L Ronchi, D Bracewell, off Ajantha Mendis in the next from the heel injury that side- without addition to the score to Matt Henry with the new ball Extras (W-8) ...... 8 A Milne, M Henry, M McClenaghan. to put Sri Lanka out of the game. lined him in the World Cup, was finish with four for 49. back in their hands were out- Total (all out in 47 overs) ...... 188 Bowling: Kulasekara 3-0-27-0; Lakmal 3-0- The wickets started falling bowling near the 150kph (93mph) Doug Bracewell, who broke standing for us,” McCullum said Fall of wickets: 1-13, 2-20, 3-23, 4-23, 5-27, 24-0 (w1); Mathews 1-0-17-0 (w1); Mendis early with a 98-run stand by mark and while he tied the bats- up the Siriwardana-Kulasekara in a televised interview. 6-65, 7-163, 8-164, 9-167, 10-188. 5-0-49-0 (w2); Siriwardana 5-0-45-2; Cha- Milinda Siriwardana and Nuwan man down at one end, Henry did partnership, had figures of three Bowling: Milne 10-0-30-1 (w3); Henry 10-1- meera 2-0-18-0 (w3); Dilshan 2-0-10-1 (w1). Kulasekara for the seventh wicket the damage at the other. for 37. REUTERS their one partnership of note. Inside three overs he removed AFP SUNDAY 27 DECEMBER 2015 SPORT www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 25

2015 IN NUMBERS: Steyn strikes to put brakes on England A REVIEW OF THE YEAR IN RUGBY UNION Take a look at the key numbers from the world of Rugby Union over the past fightback after Taylor-Compton stand 12 months. 2 - The number of tests lost by Richie McCaw on home soil in his All Blacks career. Second successive half ton for Taylor; the pair shares a 125-run partnership 8 - The number of days Eddie Jones spent in his role as the Stormers’ head DURBAN: Nick Compton and Scoreboard coach. James Taylor, both seeking to re- 15 different centre partnerships were establish themselves at Test level, England (I innings): used by Stuart Lancaster during his hit half-centuries and dug Eng- A Cook c Elgar b Steyn ...... 0 tenure as England head coach. Brad land out of trouble on a rain-hit A Hales c De Villiers b Steyn ...... 10 Barritt and Manu Tuilagi were the most first day of the first Test against N Compton (batting) ...... 63 used pairing during this time, joining South Africa at Kingsmead yes- J Root lbw Piedt ...... 24 forced on 11 occasions. In Lancaster’s terday. J Taylor c De Villiers b Steyn ...... 70 final match in charge he used his 15th England were 179 for four at B Stokes (batting) ...... 5 and final different combination in mid- the close of play after being sent Extras (B-1, LB-2, NB-3, W-1) ...... 7 field with Owen Farrell and Henry Slade in to bat. Total (for 4 wkts) ...... 179 pulling on the 12 and 13 jerseys against Fast bowler Dale Steyn spoiled Fall of wickets: 1-3, 2-12, 3-49, 4-174. Uruguay. a good recovery by the tourists Bowling: Steyn 15.1-3-29-3; Abbott 16-2- when he struck shortly before 21 appearances were made by cross- 40-0 (1nb); Morkel 15-1-44-0 (2nb, 1w); code convert Sam Burgess for Bath the close, having Taylor caught Piedt 11-2-39-1; Van Zyl 2-1-2-0; Elgar 6-1- before his switch back to Rugby behind for 70, ending a partner- 22-0. League and the South Sydney Rab- ship of 125 off 274 balls. South Africa: H Amla, D Elgar, S van Zyl, F du bitohs. Taylor, hitting a second half- Plessis, A de Villiers, T Bavuma, J Duminy, D 54 - The amount of weeks Dylan Hart- century in successive matches Steyn, D Piedt, K Abbott, M Morkel. after returning to the side after ley has been banned over the course of a three-year absence, said it had his professional career. He was handed a massive 26-week ban for eye-goug- been a good day for England in had skipper Cook caught at sec- ing in 2007, an 11-week suspension for overcast conditions which he ond slip by Elgar for a duck off verbally abusing referee Wayne Barnes said suited the South African the fifth ball of his second over. during the 2013 Premiership final bowlers. He did not concede a run in against Leicester and most recently a “I thought it was a pretty solid the 3.1 overs he bowled in the 27 four-week ban for headbutting. day for England,” said Taylor, who minutes of play that was possible praised the application of Comp- before lunch. 184 - The number of points Ian Keat- ley gathered for Munster last season. ton after the pair came together England new cap Alex Hales got His points tally came mainly through with their side struggling on 49 off the mark with a clip to leg for his deadly boot kicking 34 conversions for three. two off the first ball he faced from and 37 penalties with just the one try. Taylor fell in fading light Kyle Abbott and looked comfort- shortly before the close, capping able at the crease, although the 265 premiership appearances made by a fine comeback from injury by only ball he faced against Steyn Eddie Jones’ new England backroom Steyn, who took three for 29. during the morning was the last staff recruit Steve Borthwick, a record Steyn dismissed English open- delivery before the rain. total. ing batsmen Alastair Cook and When play resumed he faced 271 tries were scored during the Rugby Alex Hales cheaply, while off- only four more balls without World Cup 2015, 39 of these were pro- spinner Dane Piedt took the adding to his score of ten before vided by the World Champions New wicket of Joe Root for 24 with his edging a Steyn outswinger to Zealand. first ball of the match. wicketkeeper AB de Villiers. 366 metres have been made by Taqele Compton and Taylor batted sol- “It’s been frustrating sitting Naiyaravoro so far in this season’s idly on a slow pitch which did not on the sidelines for the last six Champions Cup. Glasgow Warriors’ offer the bowlers as much assist- weeks,” said Steyn. powerhouse winger has reached the ance as South African captain “I’ve been training hard and tally playing just 187 minutes, the least Hashim Amla might have hoped doing a lot of bowling and I had of any player in the top 8 metres made. when he won the toss and sent quite a tough fitness test. Hash 597 points have been amassed by Eng- England in to bat in overcast con- (Amla) is always asking the leader lish teams so far in the Champions Cup, ditions. England’s batsman James Taylor pulls the ball during the first day of their first Test against South Africa at the of the attack to set the tone and where Aviva Premiership clubs currently top three out of the five pools. “The conditions were tough for Kingsmead Stadium in Durban yesterday. it was nice to get on the field and both sides,” said Steyn. contribute.” 2,525 - The total number of points “It was difficult for the bats- Steyn added that the decision amassed so far by the Premiership’s men to score because the pitch less at times in his first Test ting out there.” “I tried to be as aggressive as I to bowl first was influenced by a all-time leading points scorer Charlie was slow, but the ball was a bit match in more than two years. The diminutive Taylor was could in my areas and not go too forecast of hot weather for the Hodgson. The Saracens and former damp because of the wet outfield He made 63 not out off 179 more enterprising than Comp- far out of my areas,” he said. remaining four days. Sale Sharks fly-half has announced and it was difficult to get the ball balls, with four boundaries. ton, using his feet well, particu- Steyn, who had not played any “Today was probably the only his retirement from the game but not to swing.” “He did exactly what was larly against the spin bowlers, and cricket since suffering a groin day with cloud cover, although before he reached the remarkable Compton, returning to the city needed,” said Taylor. “It’s been a made his runs off 137 balls with injury on the first day of a series it didn’t swing as much as we milestone of 2,500 points extending of his birth and early upbringing, few years out for both Nick and nine fours and a six off left-arm in India on November 5, found his hoped,” he said. his lead over nearest rival Andy Goode was resolute and almost stroke- myself and we really enjoyed bat- spinner Dean Elgar. rhythm almost immediately and AFP to 297 points. 2,477,875 people attended a Rugby World Cup match in 2015, making it Afghanistan beat the most attended tournament Rugby Pakistan resolves row over paceman Amir World Cup to date. Zimbabwe in Toulouse focus on LAHORE: Pakistan’s cricket low-scoring game chief said yesterday that a row Toulon, domestic over the inclusion of tainted SHARJAH: Afghanistan bowled paceman Mohammad Amir in a honours out Zimbabwe for a paltry 82 to training camp had been resolved win the first one-day interna- and the two objecting players had PARIS: French heavyweights tional by 49 runs on Friday. returned. Toulouse and Toulon lock horns Afghanistan had been dis- Former Twenty20 captain as the Top 14 returns today, while missed for just 131 with more Mohammad Hafeez and current leaders Clermont will bid to keep than 10 overs to spare in the first one-day captain Azhar Ali had hold of top spot when they host game of the five-match series boycotted the camp on Thursday, Racing 92. with opener Noor Ali Zadran top refusing to train alongside Amir, Home-and-away wins over fel- scoring with 63. who was jailed in 2011 for spot- low three-time champions Lein- Leg-spinner Graeme Cremer fixing. ster revived Toulon’s quest to claimed 5-20. Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) land a fourth successive European But Zimbabwe then lost their chairman Shaharyar Khan said crown, but Toulouse’s Champions last seven wickets for just 35 runs Hafeez and Ali had now joined Cup hopes were shattered by a to be bowled out in the 31st over. the camp. pair of defeats to Ulster. Afghanistan off-spinner Amir “The matter has been resolved,” With just domestic honours to Hamza was the pick of the bowl- Khan told reporters. play for, third-placed Toulouse ers with 4-17 having been handed “Both listened to me and agreed are hoping to arrest their slide the new ball. to join the camp unconditionally against a second-placed Toulon “The captain told me ‘to bowl and will have to support Amir outfit that appears to have turned wicket to wicket and if an oppor- when he returns to the team.” the corner after a sluggish start tunity is there, don’t miss out’,” The training camp is staged to to the campaign. man of the match Hamza told select the squad for next month’s Toulouse coach Jean-Baptiste cricinfo.com. tour of New Zealand where Paki- Elissalde said his side’s upcom- “We have been here for a week, stan play three one-day and as ing fixtures, which also include we have trained. We have a strong many Twenty20 internationals. a January 3 trip to struggling domestic structure which gets Hafeez, who in November spoke Pakistani cricketer Mohammad Amir (left) delivers a ball during a team practice for the Pakistan Super League champions Stade Francais, would better day by day.” publicly against Amir, said he (PSL) in Lahore yesterday. be crucial but not necessarily Only three Zimbabwe bats- forgave him but was sticking to decisive. men reached double figures with principle. “We suspected once we saw the captain Elton Chigumbura top- Amir, then Test captain Sal- The three players and their lifted sanctions against the three The Pakistan players are train- calendar that it was going to be a scoring on 28. man Butt and Mohammad Asif agent Mazhar Majeed were jailed players. Amir’s ban was relaxed ing ahead of the national side’s turning point in the season,” said Friday’s win followed Afghani- were charged with accepting by a British court in 2011. Amir, in January this year and he was upcoming tour of New Zealand, Elissalde. stan’s 3-2 win in the ODI series in money in exchange for arrang- Butt and Asif were also banned allowed to play domestic matches. where they will play three one- Both Toulouse and Toulon, who Zimbabwe in October. It was the ing deliberate no-balls during a from cricket for five years. At the time of the ban, Amir day internationals and three dealt Clermont a rare home loss first time that a non-Test playing Test match at Lord’s in England But in September this year, was tipped as one of the most tal- Twenty20 matches. last month, are just a point off team had beaten a Test nation in in 2010. the International Cricket Council ented fast bowlers in the world. AFP the pace and will be out to profit a ODI series. on any potential slip up when the “I thought we started well, at leaders host Racing 92. one stage we thought they would AFP score 270,” said Chigumbura. BCB chief wants Zimbabwe Test after World T20 The second game of the series takes place at the same venue on DHAKA: Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) Bangladesh players and head coach Chandika the Under-19 World Cup will be ongoing.” TODAY’S FIXTURES Tuesday. President Nazmul Hassan has said that the Hathurusingha about the matter before dis- The BCB’s cricket operations committee had (kick-off times in GMT) AFP cricket operations committee-proposed soli- cussing it with the board. said that they were mindful of venue shortages Oyonnax vs Stade Francais (1300) tary Bangladesh-Zimbabwe Test in January “Basically, the cricket operations [com- and had earmarked Khulna (where no U-19 Pau vs La Rochelle (1500) BRIEF SCORES is unlikely to take place. Instead, he has sug- mittee] told me that they want the team to World Cup matches will take place) and Sylhet Montpellier vs Agen (1500) gested that the one-off Test could take place play both Test and T20s,” he said on Friday. (where five U-19 World Cup matches will be Castres vs Brive (1500) Afghanistan 131 all out in 38.5 overs after the World T20, in May or June. “But the problem is they want the T20 first held in two stadiums) when they proposed a Bordeaux-Begles vs Grenoble (1500) (Noor Ali Zadran 63; Graeme Cremer Hassan, who underlined the challenges of and then the Test match; so to play a Test series comprising one Test and three T20s. Clermont vs Racing 92 (1700) 5-20) v Zimbabwe 82 all out in 30.5 playing two different formats in the span of before the Asia Cup T20 won’t be possible. overs (Amir Hamza 4-17) a few weeks, said he wanted to consult the There’s problem with the grounds too, since AGENCIES Toulouse vs Toulon (2000) SUNDAY 27 DECEMBER 2015 26 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com SPORT Gutsy Stoke City add to Van Gaal’s troubles Premier League: United go seven games without victory after 2-0 loss; leaders Leicester fall to Liverpool

LONDON: Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal’s future was plunged into serious doubt yesterday as his side crashed 2-0 at Stoke City, while leaders Leicester City lost at Liverpool. United have now gone seven games without victory in all com- petitions – their worst run since 1989-90 – and speculation is rife that Van Gaal will pay for their slump with his job. He had described the match as “must-win”, but his side were deservedly beaten after Bojan Krkic punished a Memphis Depay error to open the scoring in the 19th minute before Marko Arnau- tovic slammed home a second goal seven minutes later. Asked if he felt he still had the support of the United board, Van Gaal told Sky Sports at a wind- swept Britannia Stadium: “It’s another situation. We have lost the fourth game (in succession), so you have to wait and see.” He added: “It’s more difficult because I’m also part of the four matches that we have lost. “So people are looking at me. I have to deal with that, but much more important is that the play- ers have to deal with that because they have to perform.” Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp celebrates with Dejan Lovren (right) after their English Premier League game against Leicester City yesterday at the Anfield, Liverpool. RIGHT: Stoke City’s Van Gaal’s side slipped to sixth Spanish striker Bojan Krkic (second right) celebrates after scoring the opening goal of the English Premier League match against Stoke City at the Britannia Stadium in Stoke-on-Trent, in the table, three points below central England yesterday. PREMIER LEAGUE the top four, with Stoke, managed Klopp a first win in four league Borini replied for Sam Allardyce’s spell as Chelsea interim manager relegation places in 15th place. RESULTS by former United striker Mark games. side. But it was not all positive with a 2-2 draw at home to Wat- Elsewhere, Crystal Palace Aston Villa 1 (Ayew 62-pen) West Hughes, now three points behind Leicester’s defeat, only their news for City manager Manuel ford, Oscar missing a late penalty climbed one place to fifth after Ham 1 (Cresswell 45+2) them in 10th place. second of the season, means that Pellegrini, with Bony skying a that would have given the cham- drawing 0-0 at Bournemouth. Bournemouth 0 Crystal Palace 0 Leicester lost 1-0 at Anfield, Arsenal can go top if they win late penalty and, more worry- pions all three points. Managerless Swansea City Chelsea 2 (Costa 32, 65) Watford 2 their first away defeat of the at Southampton later on Boxing ingly, skipper Vincent Kompany Troy Deeney, with a penalty, escaped the relegation zone as (Deeney 42-pen, Ighalo 57) campaign, with Christian Ben- Day. limping off just 10 minutes after and Odion Ighalo put Watford Ki Sung-Yueng’s ninth-minute teke sliding home a 63rd-minute Manchester City reignited coming on following eight games 2-1 ahead after Costa had given tap-in saw off West Bromwich Liverpool 1 (Benteke 63) Leicester 0 winner after coming on to replace their title challenge by bouncing out with a calf injury. Chelsea a 32nd-minute lead, but Albion, while bottom club Aston Manchester City 4 (Sterling 12, Toure the injured Divock Origi before back from Monday’s 2-1 defeat Tottenham Hotspur tightened the Spain striker equalised in the Villa drew 1-1 at home to West 17, Bony 22, De Bruyne 54) Sunder- half-time. at Arsenal with a breezy 4-1 win their grip on fourth place by 65th minute from Willian’s pass. Ham United. land 1 (Borini 59) Benteke spurned a gilt-edged over second-bottom Sunderland overcoming Norwich City 3-0 at Oscar had a chance to give Swansea’s win saw Newcas- Stoke 2 (Bojan 19, Arnautovic 26) chance to make the game safe that left them three points off the White Hart Lane, where Harry Chelsea victory when substitute tle United drop into the bottom Manchester United 0 in stoppage time when he was summit. Kane scored twice -- the first a Eden Hazard was fouled by Valon three, but Steve McClaren’s side Swansea 1 (Ki 9) West Brom 0 thwarted by Wes Morgan after Raheem Sterling, Yaya Toure penalty -- to take his tally for the Behrami, but the Brazilian slipped can clamber out of the relegation Tottenham 3 (Kane 26, 42, Carroll 80) Leicester goalkeeper Kasper Sch- and Wilfried Bony scored inside season to 13. as he took his penalty and sent zone if they avoid defeat at home Norwich 0 meichel had gone up for a throw- the first 22 minutes to put City Tom Carroll was also on target. the ball looping into the crowd. to Everton later yesterday. Newcastle 0 Everton 1 in, but his earlier strike was in control, with Kevin De Bru- Diego Costa scored twice as Chelsea, who visit United on enough to give manager Jurgen yne adding a fourth before Fabio Guus Hiddink began his second Monday, are two points above the AFP

ENGLISH LEAGUE Figueredo bribes paid for RESULTS Brentford 0 Brighton 0 decades, say prosecutors Bristol City 1 Charlton 1 Derby 2 Fulham 0 MONTEVIDEO: Former FIFA television rights for football tour- Huddersfield 3 Preston 1 vice-president Eugenio Figueredo naments organised by Conmebol. Hull 3 Burnley 0 received millions of dollars in “These actions caused harm Ipswich 2 QPR 1 bribes throughout his career at to clubs and professional players the top of South American foot- in Uruguay, notably reducing the Milton Keynes Dons 2 Cardiff 1 ball, prosecutors claimed on Fri- sums they could have received,” Rotherham 4 Bolton 0 day. added Gomez, who in December Sheffield Wednesday 3 Birmingham 0 Figueredo, 83, was extradited 2013 received a complaint from Playing today from Switzerland and spent the Uruguayan footballers union Nottingham Forest vs Leeds Christmas in jail pending a trial over the actions of several offi- League One which could see him imprisoned cials, including Figueredo. Colchester 0 Southend 2 for up to 15 years. Figueredo was one of seven top Late Friday, he was admitted to FIFA officials arrested at a Zurich Coventry 1 Port Vale 0 a Montevideo hospital with chest luxury hotel in May, a raid that Doncaster 0 Scunthorpe 1 pain, but was expected to return kicked off an unprecedented crisis Millwall 0 Walsall 1 to his cell in a matter of hours, at world football’s governing body. Peterborough 2 Chesterfield 0 said the prosecutor in his case, The United States, which led Shrewsbury 1 Fleetwood 1 Juan Gomez. the investigation, is also seeking Swindon 1 Gillingham 3 Gomez said evidence given by to extradite Figueredo on charges Postponed Figueredo showed clearly that of soliciting multi-million-dollar the official was corrupted from bribes from sports marketing Blackpool vs Oldham the moment he joined the execu- firms. Bradford vs Burton Manchester United’s Dutch manager Louis van Gaal (centre) waves as he leaves after the English Premier tive committee of Conmebol, the Figueredo had agreed to be sent Bury vs Barnsley League match against Stoke City at the Britannia Stadium in Stoke-on-Trent, central England yesterday. Stoke South American federation. to Uruguay but is fighting extra- Rochdale vs Crewe won the game 2-0. “From the time he became a dition to the United States. Wigan vs Sheffield Utd member of the executive com- He was head of the Uruguayan League Two mittee, he received huge sums Football Association from 1997 to of money from plans hatched by 2006 and became Conmebol presi- AFC Wimbledon 0 Bristol Rovers 0 Van Gaal unsure about United support various members of Conmebol dent in 2013. Barnet 2 Newport 0 with the objective of maintaining Conmebol last three presidents Crawley 2 Stevenage 1 a twisted form of corruption,” said have all been arrested in the scan- Dagenham and Redbridge 0 Cam- STOKE-ON-TRENT, UK: On whether he was still writing things that do not con- Gomez in his initial report. dal, plunging the South Ameri- bridge 3 Under-pressure Manchester the right man for the job, the form to what is happening in As Conmebol president, the can confederation into crisis. At Leyton Orient 3 Portsmouth 2 United manager Louis van Gaal 64-year-old Dutchman said: “It’s Manchester United. Uruguayan looked to distribute FIFA, the spiraling scandal took Luton 0 Wycombe 2 admitted that he did not know more difficult because I’m also “That was my message, not the money via “a network of cor- a dramatic new turn last week Oxford 3 Exeter 0 if he retained the backing of the part of the four matches that we that I’m hurt because I am used ruption that hit South American when the organization banned club’s board after 2-0 defeat at have lost. to that.” United, who have slipped football with impunity and per- disgraced president Sepp Blatter Plymouth 1 Yeovil 0 Stoke City yesterday. “So people are looking at me. I out the Premier League’s top four sisted for decades.” from football for eight years over Postponed Pre-match media reports have to deal with that, but much and been eliminated from the Gomez’s report said the system ethics violations. Accrington vs Carlisle claimed that Van Gaal would be more important is that the play- Champions League this month, made it impossible for contrac- Hartlepool vs Notts County sacked if United lost at the Bri- ers have to deal with that because are next in action on Monday, tors to tender for marketing and AFP Morecambe vs Mansfield tannia Stadium and they duly they have to perform.” when they welcome Chelsea to York vs Northampton went down to first-half goals from Van Gaal had described the Old Trafford. Bojan Krkic and Marko Arnau- game as “must-win”, but said United midfielder Michael Car- SCOTTISH LEAGUE tovic in the Premier League fix- that “the pressure” upon himself rick said that Van Gaal still had ture. and the team, as well as swirling the support of his players. Falkirk 1 Dumbarton 0 United have lost four games in wind inside the stadium, meant “Of course,” Carrick said. “You St Mirren 1 Livingston 4 succession in all competitions for that his players “don’t dare to play can single anyone out in this situ- League One the first time since 1996 and gone football”. ation. As a club and as a group of Airdrie 3 Peterhead 4 seven games without victory for Van Gaal stormed out of his players and as a staff, as a man- Ayr 2 Brechin 1 the first time since the 1989-90 pre-match press conference in ager, everyone together, we have Forfar 2 Dunfermline 4 season. Manchester on Wednesday due to stick together. We have to win Stenhousemuir 1 Stranraer 5 Asked if he felt he still had to the speculation about his posi- football matches. the support of the United board tion, but he dismissed the sugges- “We’ve all got to take respon- League Two and owners the Glazer family, tion that the pressure was getting sibility for that. The only way to Annan 2 Clyde 3 Van Gaal told Sky Sports: “It’s to him. get through it is work hard, stick Elgin 2 Montrose 0 another situation. We have lost “You don’t understand my mes- together and keep believing that Former FIFA official Eugenio Figueredo arrives in court in Montevideo Queen’s Park 0 Berwick 1 the fourth game, so you have to sage,” he said. “My message was it’ll turn for us.” after being extradited from Switzerland to Uruguay, on Thursday. Stirling 1 East Fife 3 wait and see.” that media are saying things and AFP SUNDAY 27 DECEMBER 2015 SPORT www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 27 World No.1 Djokovic, Federer Tabata leading scorer as QSL teams go into break

DOHA: Al Rayyan striker and The round of 15 action will in race to be first $100m man captain Rodrigo Tabata is lead- resume on January 2, 2016 when ing the list of goal-scorers after the teams return to the football 14 matches in the Qatar Stars pitches across the country. Djokovic to start the mission at Qatar ExxonMobil Open in Doha League (QSL). This rest comes after the con- Details from the first 14 clusion of Round 14 fixtures which PARIS: Novak Djokovic and matches of the season show were full of excitement and unex- Roger Federer are poised to Tabata makes a difference to his pected results at the top of the become the first $100m men in Al Rayyan side, having fired 14 league table or in the relegation tennis in 2016, in a gripping sub- goals. zone. The teams usually split for plot to the new Grand Slam sea- With a very good average of a complete rest while some sides son. goal per game, Tabata’s brilliant opt to decelerate on the intensity No player in the history of the form has allowed Al Rayyan to of training since players need time sport has broken through the post 13 wins out of 14 games. to recuperate from soft injuries. $100m on-court earnings barrier Tabata converted a key spot Al Rayyan head coach Jorge but World Number One Djokovic kick to give Al Rayyan win Fossati has allowed his players and Federer, the number three, number 13 in last week’s game three-day rest following their should reach the landmark next against Al Sailiya. Round 14 match against Al Saili- year. Lekhwiya’s Tunisian player yah which they won 2-1. Djokovic, 28, has just over $94m Youssef Msakny is second with Also El Jaish players were in prize money while Federer, 13 goals. sanctioned three-day rest after six years the Serb’s senior, has Msakny scored a brace against defeating Al Ahli by one goal. banked $97.3m. former champions Al Gharafa in Lekhwiya players were granted With $3.85m on offer for the Round 14. five-day rest following their huge winner of January’s Australian El Jaish’s Moroccan striker 4-0 win over Al Gharafa. Open, the season’s first major, the Abdel Razzaq Hamdallah and Al Al Arabi head coach Zola has veteran Swiss would be the first Sadd’s Brazilian forward Muriqui granted his players three-day rest man to the magical number even are both third with 11 goals each. after losing to Al Wakra by one if the odds are heavily stacked Hamadallah scored against Al goal. against a player who won the Ahli in Round 14 while Muriqui Al Sadd players are off the last of his 17 Grand Slam titles fired one home against Mesaimeer pitch for five days after defeating in 2012. last week. Mesaimeer 5-1 while Umm Salal The staggering rewards for Umm Salal’s Ivorian striker head coach Bulent said two days the modern player, all boosted Sagbo has scored 10 goals. of rest would be enough for his by lucrative off-court earnings The same amount of goals have squad. through sponsorship and endorse- been scored by the Burkina Faso Al Kharaitiyat players have ments, are a far cry from the striker Al Kharaitiyat’s Yahya been granted two-day rest follow- heavyweights of the sport who Kebe, A key player, Kebe scored ing their match against Qatar SC starred in earlier eras. goals against Qatar SC in Round which ended in their favour 3-2. Rod Laver, the last man to 14. Al Ahli players have a three- complete the calendar Grand Al Arabi’s Brazilian striker day rest while Mesaimeer players Slam – something that eluded Paulinho, El Jaish’s Uzbek player were allowed to cool off for similar Djokovic courtesy of a French Rashidov and Al Wakra’s Argen- number of days. Open final loss in 2015 – ended tinean striker Sasha all have Al Gharafa (2 days), Al Sailiya his playing career with $1.5m, still World No.1 Novak Djokovic smiles during a press conference at the Khalifa International Tennis and Squash scored 9 goals each. (3 days) Al Khor (2 days) and Al a huge sum by the standards of Complex in Doha ahead of Qatar ExxonMobil Open in this January 2015 file photo. Djokovic will start the race Meanwhile, after four months Wakra (3 days) will also enjoy the late 1960s. to be first $100m man with the Qatar ExxonMobil Open starting in Doha next week. of nearly non-stop action, the some time off. John McEnroe earned $12.5m QSL teams have split for a short while Federer’s hero, Pete Sam- but welcome break of 11 days. THE PENINSULA pras banked $43m before he Rival Maria Sharapova, the retired in 2002. world’s richest sportswoman due Djokovic earned a season record to her lucrative off-court portfo- $21.m in 2015, a year which saw lio, has earned less than half than him win three of the four majors Williams – $36.4m. – taking his total to 10 in total. Back in the men’s game, “My season was the best of my 14-time major winner Rafael career with many highlights. It Nadal has banked $75m on court inspires me even more to keep while current world number two on going, and I hope to continue Andy Murray has earned $42.5m. to play at this level in 2016,” said Meanwhile, former champion Djokovic. Richard Gasquet pulled out of Despite his dominance of the the season-opening Qatar Exxon- sport, Djokovic still has some Mobil Open due to a back injury catching up to do when it comes which could also threaten his par- to matching Federer’s overall per- ticipation in the Australian Open. sonal fortune. Frenchman Gasquet, the world According to Forbes’ rich list, number nine, aggravated his long- Federer was the fifth highest- standing back problem at the earning sportsman in 2015 thanks International Premier Tennis to $58m in endorsements. League (IPTL) exhibition event Djokovic was 13th, his on-court An aerial view of the main court of Khalifa Tennis Complex in Doha which Gasquet, 29, won the 2013 Doha wealth boosted by $31m worth of will play host to the Qatar ExxonMobil Open starting next week. title when he defeated Nikolay commercial riches. Davydenko of Russia in the final But the Serb knows time – and game. the form which saw him win 82 the end is anytime soon, that defi- tour. Serena Williams’s on-court The Qatar Open gets under way matches and suffer just six losses nitely excites me and motivates earnings stood at just over $74m on January 4 with Novak Djokovic last season – is on his side. me to keep going.” after a 2015 season which saw the and Rafael Nadal set to take the “I think I have a good chance. The staggering wealth in the American also claim three of the top two seedings. I’m 28 and I still don’t feel like men’s game dwarfs the women’s four Grand Slam titles. AFP

Bolt thrives despite athletics’ annus horribilis

LONDON: Jamaican sprint ing laboratory were banned over superstar Usain Bolt shone at the bombshell WADA report the Beijing world championships, alleging systematic state-spon- but athletics was later mired in sored doping. a shocking doping-linked cor- Russian officials have vowed to Al Rayyan captain Rodrigo Tabata controls the ball during the Qatar ruption scandal that plunged the reinstate the national athletics Stars League (QSL) match against El Jaish in Doha in this November Olympics’ number one sport into federation in time for track and 28, 2015 file photo. crisis. field athletes to compete in next Bolt bagged an unprecedented summer’s Olympic Games and fifth treble gold medal haul at a to fight the use of performance global championship in the Chi- enhancing drugs in sport. nese capital in August, suitably “We are against any kind of in the same Bird’s Nest stadium doping, first of all because doping where his career took off in the destroys people’s health,” Russian Coleman to miss Panthers 2008 Olympics. President Vladimir Putin said fol- But the towering Jamaican’s lowing the saga. feats were overshadowed by rev- After Russia, there were also game after shower fall elations that threw track and shocking revelations in Kenya, field’s world governing body, the an east African giant of the track FLOWERY BRANCH: Atlanta Falcons rookie running back Tevin IAAF, into turmoil. This file photo taken on August 23, 2015 shows Jamaica’s Usain Bolt that topped the medals table in Coleman, who slipped and hit his head in the shower at the team At the same Beijing world celebrates after winning the final of the men’s 100 metres athletics event Beijing. facility on Wednesday, has been ruled out for today’s game against champs where Bolt shone, former at the 2015 IAAF World Championships at the “Bird’s Nest” National The IAAF ethics commission Carolina Panthers. British double 1500m Olympic Stadium in Beijing. suspended Isaiah Kiplagat, who Coleman’s absence means the Falcons will go with Terron Ward as champions Sebastian Coe beat led the national athletics federa- the backup to starter Devonta Freeman. Sergey Bubka in a vote to take tion for more than 20 years, along Coach Dan Quinn didn’t give any indication that Coleman’s concus- over from Lamine Diack as IAAF Diack remains under investiga- tive that suggested Coe had lob- with his vice-president David sion would keep him out more than one game. president. tions by French authorities, while bied Diack for the 2021 World Okeyo and former treasurer “Only based on the fact that he was doing better today,” Quinn said. No sooner was Coe installed the World Anti-doping Agency Championships to be awarded to Joseph Kinyua over suspicions “So he’s seeing the docs every day and going through the protocol. Just than Diack was revealed to have (WADA) is also preparing a Eugene, Oregon, where Nike was they had siphoned off sponsorship straight bummer for him, man. I’m anticipating moving forward from accepted bribes worth up to one report on allegations of corrup- founded. money from Nike and subverted here just kind of incrementally getting better as it goes.” million euros to allow doped Rus- tion within the IAAF. When asked if it had been in anti-doping controls. Quinn also ruled out rookie nose tackle Grady Jarrett with a shoul- sian athletes to compete. A “hor- Such was the external pressure, Nike’s interest for the event to Prior to becoming IAAF vice- der injury. Starting nose tackle Paul Soliai is probable coming off a ror show”, in Coe’s words. Coe ended his 38-year association be awarded to Eugene – which it president in 2007, the 59-year-old calf injury. Coe, who was IAAF vice-pres- with US sportswear company was, without a formal bid process Briton was appointed as the first Middle linebacker Paul Worrilow is expected to start after missing ident for eight years under Diack Nike, for whom he worked in the – Coe said: “I don’t conclude that.” ethics commission chairman for last week with left knee swelling. Worrilow had the knee drained. and had previously described the lucrative role as an ambassador, The IAAF also provisionally world football’s governing body Also probable for the Falcons are left tackle Jake Matthews (back), Senegalese as the sport’s “spir- in a bid to eliminate any possible suspended athletics powerhouse FIFA, an organisation currently guard Chris Chester (shoulder), and wide receiver/kick returner Devin itual leader”, insisted he had no conflict of interest. Russia in November, and both mired in corruption allegations Hester (toe). Defensive tackle Ra’Shede Hageman (knee) is question- inkling of corruption within his The BBC had published an RUSADA (Russian anti-doping of its own. able. organisation. email from a senior Nike execu- agency) and Moscow’s anti-dop- AFP AFP Sunday 27 December 2015 16 Rabia I1437 Volume 20 Number 6657 Sport Price: QR2

Comanche Djokovic, grabs early lead Federer in in yacht race $100m race

Sport | 23 Sport | 27

www.thepeninsulaqatar.com [email protected] | [email protected] Editorial: 44557741 | Advertising: 44557837 / 44557780 The Toymaker earns Bassem big win on home soil Qatar International Show Jumping Championship: Qatari rider wins feature competition on the final day By Rizwan Rehmat LOCAL SHOW JUMPING DOHA: Qatari rider Bassem RESULTS Hassan Mohammed yesterday Read under as horse, rider, time and lived up to his top billing by prize mony: guiding The Toymaker to a hard- (Comp. 8) Table A, Against the clock, earned victory in the Grand Prix Art. 238.2.1 - 120 CM of Doha - the feature competi- Ungarin 4, Ali Al Khorafi, 51.64 seconds, QR tion on the final day of the Qatar 2,812 International Show Jumping Jessico 4, Saeed Nasser Al Qadi, 54.73 Championship. seconds, QR 2,250 The popular Qatari rider - who will feature in the team event at Lucky Lady, Salman Mohammed Al Emadi, next year’s Olympic Games in 56.35 seconds, QR 1,687 Rio - last night overcame nerves Anufleur, M Abdulrahman Albladi, 57.15, QR to produce a title-winning ride 1,125 with The Toymaker to bag the Daydreamer EC, Ghanim Nasser Al Qadi, top prize of QR 186,000. 57.29 seconds, QR 787.50 The Toymaker, who had a cou- (Comp. 9) Table A, Against the clock, ple of faults, clocked a time of Art. 238.2.1 - 130/135 CM 56.26 seconds in his second run in Cascano, Salmen Sultan Al Suwaidi, 62.06 the 145/160cm class in what were seconds, QR 5,062 chilly riding conditions at the Annalita, Noora Al Qaoud, 63.00 seconds, Outdoor Arena at Qatar Eques- QR 4,050 trian Federation (QEF). Bowie Z, ridden by Jordan’s Paddys Darco, Bassem Hassan Mohammed, Ibrahim Hani Bisharat, finished 66.29, QR 3,037 in second spot in a time of 46.61 Unlimited, Fahad Abdulaziz Al Eid, 66.92 seconds but four faults cost him seconds, QR 2,025 the top prize. Bisharat earned QR Casmir’s Son, Maryam Mubarak AL ALI, 148,800 for his efforts. 70.17 seconds, QR 1,417 Noblesse Des Tess, who had Qatari rider Bassem Hassan riding The Toymaker celebrates his triumph in the Grand Prix of Doha at the Qatar International Show Jumping Championship (Comp. 10) One Round + Winning Round, Saudi rider Kamal Abdullah at Qatar Equestrian Federation Outdoor Arena in Doha yesterday. RIGHT: Top three riders of Grand Prix of Doha at the podium pose for a picture. Art. 276.2.1, 2.3 - 145 CM Bahamdan in the saddle, finished Brown Sugar, Ibrahim Hani Bisharat, 37.43 in third spot in a time of 48.61 seconds, QR 29,625 seconds. Noblesse Des Tess had Egypt bagged QR 74,400 while competing at home but I held and Hamad bin Abdulrahman Al Cortani) and Ales Opatrny of the Bling Bling 2, Abdullah Alsharbatly, 40.68 four faults but Bahamdan still Qatar’s Al Rumaihi won QR my nerve and won the event,” he Attiyah, the President of Qatar Czech Republic (5th, VDL Fakir) seconds, QR 23,700 pocketed QR 111,600. 52,080. added. Equestrian Federation, for their completed the top five riders in a Clinton, Edwina Tops-Alexander, 41.33 Tabea 20 (4th, Mohamed “It was a great show for us,” “I take this opportunity to support,” Bassem said. field of 26 contestants. seconds, QR 17,775 Talaat) and Castiglione L (5th, Bassem said after picking up his thank H E Sheikh Joan bin “I thank my riding team for In competition nine, Qatar’s Mubarak Yousuf Al Rumaihi) medal. Hamad Al Thani, the President their support. We work as a team Salmen Sultan Al Suwaidi con- Cortani, Omer Karaevli, 42.72 seconds, QR completed the top five. Talaat of “I was nervous because I was of Qatar Olympic Committee, and it is good to know we support trolled Cascano with sublime ease 11,850 each other,” he said. to win the 130/135cm. Cascano Vdl Fakir, Ales Opatrny, 42.99 seconds, QR “There’s always pressure when clocked a time of 62.06 seconds 8,295.00 you are competing at home. We in run against the clock as Al (Comp. 11) Two Rounds, Art. 273.3.3.2 don’t have our first-choice horses Suwaidi picked up the top prize + 4.3 - 145 -160 CM here since we are preparing for of QR 5,062. The Toymaker, Bassem Hassan Mohammed, the Olympic Games,” Bassem said. Noora Al Qaoud paired up with 56.26, QR 186,000 In competition 10, Jordan’s Annalita to nail the second spot Bowie Z, Ibrahim Hani Bisharat, 46.61, QR Bisharat savoured another fruit- in a time of 63.00 seconds on the 148,800 ful run by guiding Brown Sugar soft turf at QEF’s Outdoor Arena Noblesse Des Tess, Kamal Abdullah to victory in the 145cm class (one that got lashed by incessant rains Bahamdan, 48.61, QR 111,600 round + winning round). Brown on Friday night. Qatar’s star rider Sugar did not disappoint as he Bassem brought delight in the Tabea 20, Mohamed Talaat, 49.89, QR produced a neat routine in a time home camp with Paddys Darco, 74,400 of 37.43 seconds. Bisharat picked sealing the third spot in a time Castiglione L, Mubarak Yousuf Al Rumaihi, up the top prize of QR 29,625. of 66.29 seconds. 50.91, QR 52,080 Saudi rider Abdullah Alshar- Fahad Abdulazzi Al Eid of batly exhibited a controlled run Saudi Arabid (4th, Unlimited) Jessico 4, ridden by Qatar’s with Bling Bling 2 to grab the and Maryam Mubarak of Qatar Saeed Al Qadi, finished in second second spot in a time of 40.68 (5th, Casmir’s Son) completed the spot in a time of 54.73 seconds. seconds. Alsharbatly got richer top five. The second prize was worth QR by QR 23,700. In competition eight, Kuwait’s 2,250. Lucky Lady, ridden by Popular Australian rider Ali Al Khorafi paired up with Salman Mohammed Al Emadi of Edwina Tops-Alexander and Clin- Ungarin 4 to win the 120cm class Qatar, secured the third spot in a Bassem Hassan (left) poses with QEF President Hamad bin Abdulrahman ton had to settle for the third spot with relative ease. Ungarin 4 time of 56.35 seconds. The third Al Attiyah after his win. RIGHT: Qatar’s Maryam Mubarak Al Ali in action after clocking a time of 41.3 sec- cocked a time of 51.64 seconds as prize amounted to QR1,687. during competition eight yesterday. onds. Edwina won QR 17,775. Al Khorafi picked up the top prize Omer Karaveli of Turkey (4th, of QR 2,812. THE PENINSULA

PAST CHAMPIONS 2015: Branden Grace Countdown begins: Qatar Masters is just a month away 2014: Sergio Garcia 2013: Chris Wood DOHA: Today marks just one tic about the boys playing their 2012: Paul Lawrie month to go until the 2016 Com- fourth Commercial Bank Qatar 2011: Thomas Bjørn mercial Bank Qatar Masters tees Masters this January. 2010: Robert Karlsson off at Doha Golf Club (27-30 Jan- The tournament, organised 2009: Alvaro Quiros uary), and organisers, sponsors, by the Qatar Golf Association players and golf course specialists (QGA), the Qatar Olympic Com- 2008: Adam Scott are gearing up for Qatar’s biggest mittee (QOC), Doha Golf Club 2007: Retief Goosen annual sporting spectacular . and long-term title sponsor, 2006: Henrik Stenson “One month to go means that Commercial Bank, will welcome 2005: Ernie Els Commercial Bank and all the a star-studded line-up for the 2004: Joakim Haeggmann committees are hard at work to $2.5m prize fund showpiece. 2003: Darren Fichardt make the 2016 Commercial Bank The tournament’s list of past Qatar Masters a success,” said champions includes former world 2002: Adam Scott Hassan Al Nuaimi, President of number ones Ernie Els (2005) and 2001: Tony Johnstone the Qatar Golf Association. Adam Scott (2002 and 2008), 2000: Rolf Muntz Qatari amateurs, Saleh Al Ryder Cup stars Sergio Garcia 1999: Paul Lawrie Kaabi and Ali Al Shahrani, both (2014), Thomas Bjørn (2011), 1998: Andrew Coltart 21, are again aiming to qualify for Henrik Stenson (2006), Paul the tournament with the hope Lawrie (1999 and 2012) and Rob- ABOUT QATAR MASTERS of becoming the first local play- ert Karlsson (2010), and two-time Since 1998 the prestigious Qatar Mas- ers to make the cut at the 2016 US Open Champion Retief Goosen ters golf tournament has been hosted Organisers, sponsors and players pose for a group picture with the 2016 Commercial Bank Qatar Masters Commercial Bank Qatar Masters trophy to mark the one-month countdown to the prestigious event that will start from January 27, 2016 in Doha. (2007). South Africa’s Branden by Doha Golf Club. tournament.. “One month to go Grace won the last edition of the The annual tournament is sponsored means intensive training for us Commercial Bank Qatar Masters by The Commercial Bank (QSC) and is so a lot of early mornings with Mike Elliott, QGA National tice with the boys daily.” he used to play professionally has Championship. held at the beginning of each year as Saleh and the coach,” said Ali Al Coach, said: “One month to go The coach who has won 65 been coaching the Qatari golf- part of The European Tour. Shahrani. means an extra 2-3 hours of prac- professional tournaments when ers for five years and is optimis- THE PENINSULA