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Increased protection After a contraction in The Qatar Cycling of Filipino household third quarter of 2014, Federation unveiled the workers was among Qatar’s total money event route and the logo the issues discussed supply rebounded by of the UCI Road World between labour officials. QR124bn in final quarter. Championships 2016.

SUNDAY 8 FEBRUARY 2015 • 19 Rabial II 1436 • Volume 19 Number 6335 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com [email protected] | [email protected] Editorial: 4455 7741 | Advertising: 4455 7837 / 4455 7780

Attiyah reigns supreme at Qatar Rally Official holiday New section at on Sport Day

DOHA: The Emiri Diwan announced yesterday that Tuesday (February 10), the HIA to check country’s Sport Day, will be an official holiday for employees of ministries and other govern- ment bodies. Employees of Qatar Central Bank, financial institu- fake passports tions including banks and Qatar Financial Markets Authority, will also have a holiday. QNA Number of tourists on the rise See also page 4 DOHA: A separate section increase in the number of tourist Qatar donates has been set up in the pass- visas issued last year over 2013. port control unit of Hamad Business visas issued totalled $200,000 to UN International Airport to check 110,000, and some 90,000 exit per- documents, including passports, mits were issued. Peacebuilding Fund that are suspected to be forged. Visas issued to those coming The section uses the latest here to attend events like con- NEW YORK: Qatar has donated technology to carry out its work. ferences and exhibitions rose by $200,000 to the United Nations Installed at the immigration a huge 35 percent. Among them Peacebuilding Fund. Qatar is counters at both, the arrival and were entry visas issued by Qatar’s a key donor to the Fund, which departure terminals, are VSC embassies abroad to delegates. will finance activities aimed at 6000 machines. This aside, some 158,000 entry the consolidation of peace proc- Called the Scrutiny section, visas were issued to expatriates esses and to support the imple- officials manning the immigra- based in other GCC states, and Nasser Saleh Al Attiyah (third right) and co-driver Matthieu Baumel (second left) celebrate their win in Qatar mentation of peace agreements tion counters hand a document they included over 4,000 visas for International Rally along with Nasser bin Khalifa Al Attiyah (second right), President of Qatar Motor and and political dialogue in areas of to it if they suspect forgery or foul expatriates accompanying visiting Motorcycling Federation and QMMF General Secretary Mohammed Saad Al Moraikhi during the podium cer- conflict. play. “It is, however, rare that we GCC citizens and their families as emony at QMMF headquarters in Doha yesterday. See also page 27 KAMMUTTY VP The Fund also supports activi- come across forged documents, domestic employees. ties to strengthen national including passports,” the Director There was a 31 percent rise in capacities for the promotion of of Passport Control at Hamad the number of GCC families that coexistence and peaceful solu- International Airport (HIA) said. came here last year accompany- tion as well as efforts to revitalise Colonel Mohamed Rashid ing their heads. the economy and help create or Maqtoom Al Mazrui said that at Daily, some 85,000 passen- Houthi takeover a coup: GCC restore basic administrative serv- HIA, passport control has been gers use HIA, Al Marzui told Al ices and related human capacities, separated from the overall airport Sharq in an interview. In 2014, SANA’A: The Gulf Cooperation dangerous escalation which we the movement dissolved parlia- and technical help in sustaining security. “This has eased pressure more than 18,000 passengers used Council has accused Shia reject and is unacceptable. It ment and said it would set up a peace and security. QNA on both, us as well as the airport the automatic kiosks at HIA for Houthi rebels of staging a coup totally contradicts the spirit of new interim government. security.” immigration clearances. in Yemen after they announced pluralism and coexistence which Abdel Malik Al Houthi, the Passport control has several Al Mazrui said that spe- they were dissolving parliament Yemen has known,” the GCC group’s leader, said he was open to More CMC voters sections and they include those cial counters at the arrival and and forming a new government, was quoted as saying by KUNA all parties playing a role in Yemen’s DOHA: Some 3,500 more people for issuing visas and exit permits, departure terminals were opened Kuwait’s official news agency news agency. The GCC called the future. “Our hand is extended to have registered their names in apart from the one that checks during holidays and events like said yesterday. takeover a “threat...to the secu- every political force in this country the voter list for the forthcoming the authenticity of documents. conferences and expos. The opposition of the GCC rity and stability of the region and ... the space is open for partnership, election to the Central Municipal The official said that in 2014, A highlight of the airport pass- may signal growing isolation for the interests of its people.” cooperation and brotherhood and Council due this May. The CMC’s the airport issued over 430,000 port control is that by law only Yemen and reflects the hostil- Yemen has been in political now everybody bears their respon- poll panel announced a tentative tourist visas on arrival to nation- Qataris are allowed to work in ity of its majority Sunni Muslim limbo since the president and sibility for building, not destruc- list of 23,047 voters for the fifth als of 36 countries with which the unit. neighbours towards the Iranian- prime minister resigned last tion,” he said in a televised speech. term of the CMC election. Qatar has bilateral agreements. Continued on page 6 backed Houthis. month after the Houthis seized REUTERS THE PENINSULA There was a 12 percent THE PENINSULA “This Houthi coup is a the presidential palace. On Friday, See also page 11 Full report on page 6

SUNDAY 8 FEBRUARY 2015 HOME www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 03

Qatari artist Ali Hassan with one of his works. Qatari artist to hold ‘Athar … Traces’ expo DOHA: Prominent Qatari art- The composition leaps out of lived here or travelled through… ist Ali Hassan will hold a solo the canvas into space, forming an individuals and families, Arabs exhibition ‘Athar … Traces’ intricate dialogue with the con- and non-Arabs… Those who left at Anima Gallery at the cept of scale, dimension and trace. their traces,” said Hassan. Pearl-Qatar. Each sculptural element pro- Mohamad Makouk, Art To open on February 15, duced by the gallery is an edi- Consultant at the gallery, said, the expo combines classical tion of 6, in different sizes and “Traces …” is a multi-dimensional techniques of calligraphy and mediums — bronze, corten and exhibition that reflects cultural abstraction in a contemporary aluminium. dichotomies. “Al Qafela sculptural interpretation. For the expo, the The sculptures are executed series, Black and White faces, gallery collaborated with Hassan by one of the top foundries in reflects the traces of time and the to transcend his ‘Desert Horses’ Europe. “I dedicate these works to bold colourful oasis of the Village series into sculptural forms. the people of Qatar and those who of Poets.” THE PENINSULA Man jailed for making friend blind in attack DOHA: A Nepalese who by Judge Mustafa Abdul Majid records, the duo fought over tak- attacked his friend’s eyes with a Alibduehi in the presence of Judge ing a meal and the accused pulled piece of iron during a brawl and Hassan Walid Sayyidi and Judge out a piece of iron and hit the caused him lose sight has been Al Rashid Al Marri, reports local victim, taking out his eyes and sentenced to three-year jail. Arabic daily Al Raya. causing him permanent disability. The sentence was handed down According to public prosecution THE PENINSULA SUNDAY 8 FEBRUARY 2015 04 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com HOME

Al Attiyah returns Al Attiyah holds official talks in Munich from India forum NEW DELHI: Chairman of Administrative Control and Transparency Authority H E Abdullah bin Hamad Al Attiyah yesterday returned home after taking part in the 15th Delhi Sustainable Development Summit. They were seen off at New Delhi International Airport by Qatari Ambassador Ahmad Ibrahim Al Abdullah. In his address to the summit on Thursday, Al Attiyah reviewed Qatar’s efforts to implement an ambitious long-term sustainable development strategy. He underlined that the Qatari leadership is committed to work- ing with other governments to build an international consen- sus on the goals of sustainable Foreign Minister H E Dr Khalid bin Mohamed Al Attiyah with Stephen de Mistura, UN Secretary-General’s special envoy to Syria and (right) with India’s National Security Adviser Ajit Kumar development and climate change Doval on the sidelines of the 51st Munich Security Conference. policies. He also met several world leaders on the sidelines. MUNICH: Foreign Minister met Frank Onstan, US envoy for Dtmier Bocati and discussed Attiyah’s delegation were present. Qatar National Vision 2030 and The Qatari ambassador hosted H E Dr Khalid bin Mohamed Al peace in the Middle East. ways of enhancing relations Dr Al Attiyah also held a meet- said Qatar’s riches in the energy a dinner banquet in honour of Al Attiyah met Stephen de Mistura, In a separate meeting, Lebanese and topics of mutual interest. ing with youth leaders participat- field puts a responsibility on it to Attiyah and his delegation. Many UN Secretary-General’s special Prime Minister Tammam Salam Qatari Ambassador to Germany ing in the conference. deliver energy to friends across GCC ambassadors to India were envoy to Syria, on the sidelines expressed thanks and apprecia- Abdulrahman bin Mohammed Al He expressed confidence that the globe. He also discussed present. of the 51st Munich Security tion to Emir H E Sheikh Tamim Khulaifi and Dr Al Attiyah’s del- youth can find creative solutions progress in peace talks and latest Conference and discussed latest bin Hamad Al Thani for his con- egation were present. to challenges facing the world. developments in Syria and Iraq. Qatar, Cambodia developments in Syria. structive role in Arab, regional Separately, Dr Al Attiyah met The leaders expressed keenness In a separate meeting, Dr Dr Al Attiyah stressed Qatar’s and international arenas and India’s National Security Adviser to know more about Qatar and Al Attiyah discussed with his ties discussed stance on a political solution discussed with Dr Al Attiyah Ajit Kumar Doval and discussed its increasingly prominent diplo- Armenian counterpart. Eduard to the crisis to preserve Syria’s relations and latest regional means of developing cooperation matic role in international affairs. Nalbandyan, relations, means of PHNOM PENH: Cambodia’s unity and achieve the aspirations developments. Dr Al Attiyah also in all areas and topics of mutual De Al Attiyah gave brief enhancing them and issues of Foreign Affairs Secretary of its people. The Minister also met his Albanian counterpart interest. Al Khulaifi and Dr Al overview of Qatar’s history and mutual interest. QNA of State for International Cooperation Ouch Borith met Assistant Foreign Minister H E Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Rumaihi and his delegation and discussed means of enhanc- ing relations and regional issues of mutual interest. Qatar’s Non-Resident Ambassador Sport Day activities lined up to Cambodia Jabor bin Ali Al Dosari was present. QF, Aspire Zone Foundation, Teach For Qatar and Kahramaa to join in national celebration Qatar, France review UN forum DOHA: Qatar Foundation (QF) to explore QF, while learning more people to test their well-being Sport Day. Our country des- mental and physical strength will celebrate National Sport Day about health and sports activities. knowledge and educate follow- ignated the day to highlight to complete a task, and dem- DOHA: Major General Dr with a special walkathon through With the start line at Al Shaqab, ers on sports and healthcare the importance of sports and onstrate how education and Abdullah Yusuf Al Maal, Education City under the theme participants will get the chance to opportunities available at QF. fitness. The day is a great sports go hand-in-hand. Legal Adviser to the Minister ‘Unlock Your Inner Athlete.’ learn about its world-class horses The winner will be announced chance for us at Aspire Zone “The day is the perfect of Interior and Chairman of Each stage of the walk will include and events, all of which are part of on Tuesday morning. to engage with the public on opportunity for us to apply the Preparatory Committee educational activities to inspire men, QF’s mission to enhance cultural QF, in collaboration with the the ground and put our mis- the values we are taught and for the 13th UN Congress on women and children to lead health- life and preserve the country’s Ministry of Youth and Sports, sion into action. continue to hone throughout Crime Prevention and Criminal ier and more active lifestyles. traditions. has produced a special song “This year’s preparations our TFQ Fellowship,” said Justice, and his delegation met Engineer Saad Al Muhannadi, The route will then guide partici- to encourage members of the are in line with Aspire Zone’s Ibrahim Sowan, TFQ Fellow French Foreign Ministry offi- President, QF, said: “National Sport pants to a healthy living workshop. community to exercise. mission to encourage our com- at Al Yarmook Independent cials and discussed preparations Day is a tangible demonstration of They will also be able to visit West munity to embrace a healthy School for Boys. for the Congress due in Doha on Qatar’s visionary commitment to its Green Spine along the walk, which ASPIRE ZONE lifestyle and engage in physi- “Both in and outside my April 12-19 and its agenda. people’s long-term health. will feature sport tournaments. Two FOUNDATION cal activity. We are contribut- classroom, I try to be a role The Ministry of Interior said “QF looks forward to ‘Unlock Your competitions for people with special The Aspire Zone ing to the realisation of Qatar model for students by partici- in a statement that talks at the Inner Athlete’ theme to inspiring needs will include interactive wheel- Foundation’s (AZF) celebra- National Vision 2030 which pating in the school’s sports French Foreign Ministry head- community members to get fit and chair basketball and special needs tions will feature 12 sport draws upon social and human activities and attending my quarters also dealt with the adopt healthy lifestyles for several table tennis. challenges and competitions to development as major pillars students’ Physical Education France’s stances on the agenda reasons. Not only can it drastically The walkathon will end at Awsaj encourage thousands to exer- in the country’s development classes. I do this, in part, to and the agreement on cooperation improve the quality of life, but it can Academy which will host ladies-only cise physical activity. and achieving progress we all encourage students to play and coordination between French also prevent illnesses. exercise classes, traditional games Aspire Zone and its mem- desire,” added Al Sulaiteen. sports because it demon- and Qatari delegations. “Over the past 20 years, QF has for children and races. ber organisations Aspire The Organising Committee strates just how values such Qatar chairs rounds of infor- been working hard to advance these Other activities include sports and Academy, Aspetar and Aspire will also educate participants as perseverance in a maths mal consultations under way areas of healthcare through its cen- demonstrations of taekwondo and Logistics will hold activities on benefits and importance of test or a football match can in Vienna on a draft of Doha tres of science and research dedi- gymnastics at Recreation Centre which are permanent pro- adopting a healthy lifestyle and determine success or failure.” Declaration. cated to furthering Qatar National and a match at the cricket ground. grammes offered by Aspire exercising physical activity. With applications for the Vision 2030.” In the lead-up to the day, QF will Zone throughout the year. 2015-2017 Fellowship clos- Ministry forms The walkathon will give members run a social media competition on These include family cycling, TEACH FOR QATAR ing on April 1, TFQ contin- of the community the opportunity Instagram. The quiz will encourage fun run, fitness sessions, syn- Teach For Qatar (TFQ) ues to promote its two-year Tenders Committee chronised swimming, beach will host football competitions leadership development and soccer, 5000-Step journey, fam- throughout the day at Katara. teaching programme and will DOHA: Minister of Justice ily competitions, exercises to Matches will be played on a have an information booth at H E Dr Hassan Lahdan Saqr measure players’ performance, custom-made mat represent- Katara. Al Mohannadi issued a deci- football exercises, movement ing a chalkboard. TFQ activities will be held sion, constituting the Tenders activities for young children “TFQ ethos is based on the from 9am to 10pm. Committee at the ministry. and football games for boys. belief that through high qual- The panel will be chaired by Families and individuals are ity education, individuals can KAHRAMAA Miftah Thamir Al Badi with invited to spend a day full of become champions on and off Kahramaa is organis- Said Abdullah Al Suwaidi as Vice- fun, energy and movement in the playing field since the suc- ing races and volleyball and Chairman, both representatives of a distinctive festival that pro- cess of any individual in any beach football competitions at the ministry. motes health and fitness. field is based on similar values Katara. Members are Falastin Mubarak Khalid Abdullah Al we believe in and try to instil Activities will be held from Al Sulaiti, Mohamed Rajab Sulaiteen, CEO, AZF, said: in our students — respect, per- 8.30am to 1pm as part of Mohamed Taqi (both representa- “Aspire Zone has become an severance, collaboration, lead- Kahramaa’s commitment to tives of the ministry); Ali Hassan icon of sport in the Middle ership and excellence,” said promote the health and wellbe- Al Nuaimi, representative of the East. Whenever sport is men- Dana Al Marri, TFQ Fellow at ing of Qatari society in general Ministry of Finance; and Hassan tioned on any occasion, Aspire Amna bint Wahb Independent and its staff in particular. Mohamed Al Assadi, observer Zone comes to the mind imme- School for Girls. There will be zones for chil- member and representative of diately. This is primarily the TFQ will also host others dren and women. State Audit Bureau. case when it comes to National games that combine the use of THE PENINSULA QNA Ooredoo offers QR100 cashback DOHA: Ooredoo has promotion is QR100. money will be sent on the transfer from any QNB Bank announced that its award- Customers can register for first day of the fourth month account through QNB Mobile winning Mobile Money serv- Mobile Money with a valid Qatar from their first transaction. Payment service. ice will give QR100 back on ID at any Ooredoo shop or by Customers can take advantage The app is also available via international transfers to the dialling *140# by downloading of the offer only once during the Google Play and iTunes Store Philippines for three consecu- the free Ooredoo Money App promotion. for Ooredoo Mobile Money tive months. on their mobile and following Mobile Money is available users to check finance, trans- The offer to further reward simple on-screen instructions. for use on any mobile phone fer money around the world loyal Ooredoo Mobile Money Once registered, customers and can be used to top up Hala instantly through MoneyGram customers, will credit the money can take advantage of cash- accounts (with a 10 percent and complete daily Ooredoo to their mobile wallet when they back by sending money to the extra recharge), pay Ooredoo tasks. Existing Ooredoo Mobile use the service to send money Philippines for cash collection at bills, send money locally to Money users can use their to the Philippines to family and any local MoneyGram agents or another mobile or QNB account, mobile number and six-digit friends. direct account transfer to over or transfer money overseas. mPIN to sign into the free app. The promotion runs until 20 banks, securely and reliably Users can deposit money into For details, customers can July 5 and customers must start 24 hours a day. their mobile wallets using any enquire about Mobile Money sending money latest by May 5 When three monthly interna- of over 200 Ooredoo self-service in an Ooredoo shop or visit the to be eligible for it. tional transfers have been com- machines across Qatar. Mobile Money section on the Minimum amount per trans- pleted, QR100 will be instantly Deposits can also be made Ooredoo website at http://www. action to be eligible for the credited to mobile wallet. The through Ooredoo shops or direct ooredoo.qa THE PENINSULA SUNDAY 8 FEBRUARY 2015 HOME www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 05 Al Wakra Hospital Qatar’s ‘policy based on global opens Paediatric peace through rapprochement’ Endoscopy Unit Envoy optimistic about stronger ties with European institutions

DOHA: Al Wakra Hospital be a problem. It can also be used BRUSSELS: Qatari of people in different areas. has introduced new endoscopy to help perform some types of Ambassador in Brussels Sheikh “Qatar’s diplomacy relies pri- equipment and a dedicated keyhole surgery (laparoscopy) Ali bin Jassim Al Thani says marily on mediation in conflicts Paediatric Endoscopy Unit. such as removing the appendix he is looking forward to the to ensure peace in areas hit by The new unit has successfully or gallbladder. next phase that would witness civil wars which has resulted in conducted procedures, according “Working with the new equip- further deepening of relations population displacements and to Parwaneh Elias Al Shibani, ment will help us achieve excel- between Qatar, European insti- mass exodus,” he said. Director, Nursing, Medical lent outcomes for patients in tutions, Nato and Belgium. The ambassador said Qatari Division of the hospital. terms of convenience and the Speaking at a ceremony at the diplomacy cares for humanitar- The hospital received new quality of our services. We have residence of the Head of Qatari ian aid and assistance to areas endoscopy equipment to provide received three gastroscopes (to Mission in Brussels, Sheikh Ali affected by natural disasters cutting-edge non-surgical serv- examine the esophagus and hoped that Qatar’s relations and those resulting from wars ices to patients. stomach), three colonoscopies would be strengthened at all lev- and armed conflicts which have The Paediatric Endoscopy (to examine the large intestine els and move forward to wider forced people to flee conflict zones Unit, previously at Hamad or colon), and a video proces- levels to achieve aspirations of the to safer areas. General Hospital, was trans- sor,” said Dr Abulgasim Ennkaa, Qatari people and the peoples of He hosted a dinner banquet ferred to the hospital at the end Gastroenterology and Hepatology the European Community. Ambassador Sheikh Ali bin Jassim Al Thani addressing the event in Brussels. attended by dignitaries, includ- 2014. Consultant and Acting Head, Belgian and European person- ing the European Commissioner Endoscopy is a non-surgical Gastroenterology and Endoscopy alities, Nato representatives and appropriate solutions to assist the in-depth study of threats result- for Agriculture and Rural procedure to examine a person’s Unit at the hospital. members of diplomatic corps were peoples of the Middle East and the ing from the spread of extremism Development, Nato Deputy digestive tract. Dr Ennkaa said the hospital’s present. rest of the world to ensure per- and terrorism in the Middle East Assistant Secretary-General and Using an endoscope, a flexible endoscopy service has benefited Sheikh Ali stressed that Qatar’s manent peace and development. and a distinction between resist- his assistants, members of Qatari- tube with a light and camera many patients since its launch. policy is based on key areas, He reiterated Qatar’s rejection ance and terrorism, especially European Friendship Association, attached, the doctor can view “Last year, we did 926 endo- including global peace and sta- of terrorism in all its forms, refer- that the international community top representatives of the Belgian pictures of digestive tract on a scopic procedures and the bility through rapprochement ring to Qatar’s accession to inter- has not yet agreed on the precise Government and members of colour TV monitor. patient flow is increasing as the between Doha and its regional national and regional conventions definition of terrorism. diplomatic corps accredited to Endoscopy can be used to hospital is expanding and estab- and global surroundings to allow and its legislations to combat ter- Sheikh Ali highlighted Qatar’s Belgium, the European Union investigate an area of the body lishing new subspecialities,” he a study of all issues facing the rorism, money-laundering and role in formal and informal and Nato and the Grand Duchy if symptoms suggest there might said. THE PENINSULA region and the drawing up of a financing terror operations. humanitarian assistance which of Luxembourg. comprehensive strategy with He said Qatar has called for an has helped alleviate the suffering QNA QC provides QR500,000 relief for displaced Yemenis medicines such as blood pressure Though the situation is stable, projects covering the receipt of and diabetes, health check-ups there is considerable fear among medical and social services at and drugs for other diseases com- the population that it will explode Doha Centre. monly spread in this period such again in the coming days as the The centre will have laborato- as pneumonia and diseases of the conflicting parties are massing ries, a section for the rehabilita- digestive system. gunmen in preparation for battle. tion of the disabled, an eye clinic, Some 6,076 people benefitted. Sheikh Abdul Aziz bin Jassim a pharmacy for the distribution According to YDN reports, 193 Al Thani, QC General Supervisor of medicines for children and a families are displaced as a result of Projects in Yemen, has laid the kidney dialysis section while an of events in both provinces and foundation stone for projects on X-ray section will added later. 739 families have returned home. Socotra Island, including health THE PENINSULA

A Qatar Charity team delivering aid in Yemen.

DOHA: Qatar Charity (QC) has items. to support the most needy in light distributed humanitarian relief Food baskets each containing of the fact that the Yemeni people worth QR500,000 ($140,000) 50kg of wheat, 25kg of flour, 4 are suffering as a result of conflict to displaced Yemenis from two litres of cooking oil, 10kg of sugar, and displacement. provinces. 10kg of rice and 500 grams of tea The displaced often lack the The aid included shelter, food, were distributed to 5,000 dis- most basic necessities which medicine and medical treatment placed families in Hazm, Motoon, results in a humanitarian dis- for 6,076 people. Khalq, Masloub, Higher Jouf, aster, particularly during the The projects were carried Salamat, Sahara, Baten, Khalifa current winter weather which out in partnership with Yemen Basha, Al Salah and Madina in exacerbates their problems. Development Network (YDN) the governorates of Al Jawf and The aid is in addition to cov- which took part in the distribu- Marib. ering the cost of treatment for tion of tents, mattresses, blankets, The relief efforts represent QC’s 1,500 patients and purchase and winter clothing, utensils and food humanitarian role and keenness distribution of chronic disease QA office opens in Nicosia NICOSIA: Qatari Ambassador to Cyprus Hussein bin Ahmed Al Hemaid opened the new office of Qatar Airways in capi- tal Nicosia. The opening was attended by QA’s Senior Vice-President, North, South and Western Europe, Jonathan Harding, Manager of QA office in Cyprus, Teresa Cecil, representatives of Cypriot travel agencies and Cypriot media representatives. Al Hemaid congratulated QA officials and wished them further progress and success. Harding thanked Al Hemaid for opening the office which Qatari Ambassador Hussein bin Ahmed Al Hemaid opening the office in will promote tourism and travel capital Nicosia. between both countries. QNA SUNDAY 8 FEBRUARY 2015 06 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com HOME MoI, GU-W sign cooperation deal Cheers, giggles at first Colour Run in Doha DOHA: Cheers and giggles over before running, walking and healthy and for ‘Sahtak Awalan: being painted during a run for dancing their way around the 5k Your Health First’ that is what a cause marked the morning in extravaganza. the event is all about – making Doha yesterday. Over 180 volunteers showered a healthy lifestyle fun and acces- Thousands streamed up for The coloured powder on participants sible,” said Nesreen M Al Rifai, Colour Run, a 5km colour powder at 1km intervals. After completing Chief Communications Officer, race which debuted in Doha, at the distance, runners made their WCMC-Q. Qatar National Convention Centre way to the Finish Festival where The event was presented in (QNCC). celebrations continued with mas- association with Supreme Council “As we walked towards QNCC, sive colour throws, stage perform- of Health and the campaign’s part- others dressed in all white flooded ances and live music. ners Qatar Foundation, Supreme the streets. We could feel the Participants included Kate Education Council, Qatar ground shake with the large turn- Inwood who, at the start line of Petroleum, Occidental Petroleum out and high-energy music,” said ‘Happiest 5k on the Planet’, said Qatar, ExxonMobil and Qatar Sulaiti Ahmed, a participant. she was using the opportunity to Olympic Committee. The five-year “And then a man at the micro- speed up her recovery from heart educational health campaign tar- phone yelled, ‘GO!’ We blasted off problems. “The reason I chose the gets all age with a focus on young Staff Maj. Gen. Saad bin Jassim Al Khulaifi, Director, Public Security and Chairman, Permanent Emergency running. By the time we reached run was because it was fun! I’m people in the age group 10-25 to Committee at the Ministry of Interior, and Dr Kelly Otter, Dean, Georgetown University in Washington, signed a the finish line, our white shirts and recovering from heart problems make healthy lifestyle choices. letter of intent for coordination and cooperation in the fields of strategic studies, research and scholarships. The bodies were coated with rainbow and needed to pay more atten- “I’ve done a few runs before but deal also covers organisation of conferences, symposiums and educational programmes and exchange of visits. colours from the wild downpour tion to my health and this was this was unlike anything I’ve done! of red, yellow, turquoise, magenta, the perfect start. The run is open I ran with my mom, sister and purple and orange powder on us.” to everyone and the fact that it’s cousins and we all had so much The race, organised in coopera- an untimed race meant there was fun. I usually get bored on runs but tion with ‘Sahtak Awalan: Your no pressure! This is my first 5k I had such a good time throughout Health First’, the health cam- race and its focus on fun makes it the whole event. I can’t wait to do Another 3,500 voters register paign run by Weill Cornell Medical a great way to stay healthy.” it again,” said Aya Amer, 11, at the College in Qatar (WCMC-Q) and Becoming popular since its Finish Festival. ‘Happiest 5k on the Planet’ saw launch in January 2012, the event In keeping with the focus on the to take part in CMC election participants of all ages and abili- has become the largest series in community, $1 from every entry ties enjoy a unique way to stay the US, gaining traction around went to Educate A Child (EAC). healthy and have fun along the the world with over 100 events and Launched in November 2012 by DOHA: Some 3,500 more peo- Between February 11 and 17, there were 1,153 voters in Al way. one million participants in 2013. H H Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, ple have registered in the voter voters whose names appear on Wakra, 1,507 in Old Airport, 2,399 Following a warm-up from “It is fantastic to see so many peo- EAC is a global programme of list for the Central Municipal the list and have any grievances voters in Al Muaither and 2,787 Reebok’s internationally famed ple take part in the event. This is Education Above All (EAA) that Council (CMC) election in May, can visit the poll office in their in Al Murra. ‘Les Mills’ Master Trainers, the first of its kind in Doha and aims to reduce the number of chil- taking the total to over 23,000. constituencies. The list so far is the second runners in pristine white were response has been overwhelm- dren worldwide who are denied The poll panel yesterday The panel will respond to lowest in CMC’s 16-year history. led across the starting line by a ing. Everyone had such a great their right to quality primary edu- announced a tentative list of grievances between February 18 The lowest was for the maiden colour-splattered Nissan X-Trail time while getting active and cation. THE PENINSULA 23,047 voters for the election for and 26 and the final list will be 1999 election (21,995 voters), the CMC’s fifth term. announced on March 3, reports though voter turnout was the Of these, 12,650 are men and Qatar News Agency (QNA). highest recorded so far (79.7 per- the remaining (10,394) women, More voters who did not reg- cent). The largest registration said the Supervisory Committee ister in the first round came for- (32,662) was for the 2011 election. for the poll said. ward to enrol their names in the The CMC has a four-year term. The panel had initially second round, mostly from the For the forthcoming election, announced a list of 19,396 late four largest constituencies — Al voters were required to register last month and said deletions and Murra (No. 13), Al Muaither (No. afresh after the 29 constituencies additions will be done for a week 12), Old Airport (No. 8) and Al were re-demarcated to keep pace until February 5. After deletions Wakra (No. 20). with demographic changes in sev- and additions, 3,500 more voters Total number of voters in Al eral areas, mainly Doha. figure on the list. Murra was 3,163; Al Muaither Many Qatari families shifted The committee said list for each (2,702); Old Airport area (1,768) from these areas to suburbs constituency will be displayed in and Al Wakra (1,511) after the following demolitions in prime the constituency on Wednesday. last round of registration. localities of Doha for development The CMC has 29 constituencies. In the first round, for instance, projects. THE PENINSULA

Official outlines passport validity rules more aware and educated. Earlier, fee as well. The official said many passengers with expired pass- that soon the VIP lounge at ports used to come to the immi- the airport will be thrown People taking part in the Colour Run held to promote a healthy lifestyle. ABDUL BASIT gration counters in the departure open. THE PENINSULA section. That has changed. “We don’t nor- mally send a passenger back except when his passport is not valid for six months if he is travelling overseas. CMU-Q lecture highlights financial market The validity of the passport should be three months if the person is trav- DOHA: Duane Seppi, elling to any of the neighbouring GCC BNY Mellon Professor countries, said Al Marzui. of Finance at Carnegie He said that once a passenger Mellon University’s reaches an immigration counter the Tepper School of formalities take on average about 35 Business, shared exper- Continued from page 1 seconds to complete. The duration tise in international Al Marzui (pictured) said that includes the time taken by a pas- financial markets on now passengers using the airport are senger to pay the visa (on arrival) CMU-Q campus as part of Richard M Cyert Distinguished Lecture in Business Management. Attended by students, alumni, faculty and mem- bers of Qatar Foundation and the community, the presentation focused on the evolution of interna- tional financial markets, specifically electronic platforms within stock markets. Seppi explored Duane Seppi, BNY Mellon Professor of Finance at Carnegie Mellon University’s Tepper School of Business, delivering the lecture.

principals of algorithmic programmers who under- trading — the use of com- stand business.” puter algorithms to man- The lecture is named age the trading process, a after Richard M Cyert who popular method to buy and was professor and dean of sell stock by investment Tepper School of Business banks, pension and mutual and president of CMU funds and other traders. between 1972 and 1990. Seppi said the “algo- CMU’s interdisciplinary rithmic market” is creat- education allows students ing challenges for investors to learn about different and computer program- industries through four mers due to potential disciplines — business glitches and human errors. administration, computer “Andrew Carnegie and science, information sys- Steve Jobs were able to tems and biological sci- grasp the business aspect ences. For details on how of the industry and its to apply to CMU-Q under- technological side, making graduate programmes, them some of the most visit www.qatar.cmu.edu/ successful leaders of our admission. The applica- time. The financial sector tion deadline for fall 2015 needs business people who is March 1. understand technology and THE PENINSULA SUNDAY 8 FEBRUARY 2015 HOME www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 07 Qatar, Philippines discuss domestic workers’ protection

BY RAYNALD C RIVERA outcomes of Abu Dhabi Dialogue, The Philippine delega- chaired by the Philippines for tion was in Qatar for the sec- DOHA: Improved protection two years. ond Philippines-Qatar Joint of Filipino domestic workers “Skills are the best form of Committee meeting on labour was among the issues dis- protecting our workers… that matters in line with the 2008 cussed by Qatar and Philippine is why skills recognition is pro- Additional Protocol on labour officials during a meeting, said posed to ensure those deployed cooperation signed in 1997. a Philippine official. have enough skills to protect “The agreement is about Atty Hans Leo J Cacdac themselves,” he said. strengthening the protection (pictured), Administrator, “Those with lower skills set of overseas Filipino workers Philippine Overseas such as domestic workers should (OFWs) here, terms and condi- Employment Administration be afforded maximum protec- tions of employment that serve (POEA) who headed a delega- tion,” he said, adding, “when we to protect their interest and a tion, said they “have put forward engage a host country like Qatar standard contract that is rec- proposals to improve the protec- we engage them on the level of ognised by both sides,” he said. tion of domestic workers such how best to provide protection Transparency in recruitment as an agreement on recruitment rather than discussing deploy- with emphasis on ethical prac- www.swiss-belhotel.com and protection, implementing provide updates as we go along.” ment figures, volume, etc. tices through regulation of costs Tel guidelines for the agreement and Skills recognition and infor- “Abu Dhabi Dialogue is a as well as dispute settlements a standard contract for them. mation orientation programmes multi-lateral forum but here we involving OFWs with the partici- Fax “The response was positive for migrant workers were also engage the Qataris on these two pation of the Philippine embassy and the Qatari side is willing among the topics reviewed. activities on a bilateral level. We and Philippine Overseas Labour to sit down with us to discuss,” ‘Comprehensive Information asked them if they were inter- Office were also discussed, he Cacdac told a press meet, adding and Orientation Programme for ested in such an information ori- said. Another meeting is sched- Tel Qatar is also mulling a ‘domestic Migrant Workers’ and ‘Skills, entation programmes and they uled by the year-end, but Cacdac Fax workers protection regulation’. Development, Certification, said yes, so we will embark on said there might be a technical “We are looking forward to it Upgrading and Recognition technical discussions to develop meeting prior to it. and they said they are going to System’ were two of the the programme.” THE PENINSULA

Tel Erring ‘recruiters will be penalised’ Fax

DOHA: A Philippine labour a case without the complainant,” Contract substitution, a ram- contract substitution; the law Tel + 974 44298888 official has urged Filipino Cacdac said, adding people can pant practice among manpower is there and it’s just an issue of victims of contract substitu- connect them on social media, agencies, was among the issues implementation.” Fax tion to lodge complaints and through email or the website. discussed at the meeting. He said Qatar’s Ministry of assured that erring recruit- Speaking to the media A standard employment con- Labour and Social Affairs has ment agencies and individuals on the sidelines of the sec- tract was adopted following the urged the Philippine embassy Tel will be penalised. ond Philippines-Qatar Joint signing of the 2008 Additional and Philippine Overseas Fax Philippine Overseas Committee meeting on labour Protocol between Qatar and the Labour Office to continue help- Employment Administrator, matters, he said, “In the Philippines. ing household service work- Atty Hans Leo J Cacdac, said Philippines, we hold recruit- The standard contract, ers (HSWs) and that they are even if a victim does not file a ment agencies up to very high Cacdac said, has to have approv- welcome to endorse HSWs who Tel complaint, POEA can file a case standard because they are send- als by the Philippines and Qatar need help. Fax against the violator. ing people to other countries, through their embassies and the The Philippine and Qatari “We have motu proprio they have to deal with pro- worker should not sign the con- sides have agreed to share the action; even if the person does tecting people, so rest assured, tract without approval of both lists of blacklisted recruitment not complain as long as they violators would be punished governments, he said. agencies, individuals and good Tel send us the document and if we in accordance with rules and “The standard employ- companies, he said. Fax find there is violation, we lodge regulations.” ment contract aims to solve THE PENINSULA www.doha.hilton.com

Tel 44233333 974+ GCC committee fixes import prices of Fax 44233000 974+ 4,263 medicines for unified procurement

DOHA: A GCC pricing com- participated. In 2013, the reduce the spread of diseases member state. Dr Khoja, re- mittee has fixed the import pricing committee completed after the introduction of early elected as Director-General, prices of 4,263 medicines as a study on 14 pharmaceutical screening of foreign workers in Executive Board, GCC Health Tel part of a unified procure- groups. their country of origin. Ministers Council for another Fax ment plan. This was disclosed by “The proportion of three-year term, said the GCC Of these, prices of 2,704 Kuwaiti Minister of Health unhealthy expatriates has could seek to launch a small- medicines have been approved and Chairman of the 39th declined from 30 percent to scale pilot project before intro- by the GCC states, a meeting session of the GCC Health less than five percent. We are ducing the system across the of the GCC health ministers Ministers Council, Dr Ali bin looking forward to a further region. Tel in Riyadh last week was told. Saad Al Obaidi, at the meeting. decline notwithstanding the The two-day GCC health Fax The prices have been fixed “During the committee’s fact that the percentage is ministers’ conference also based on the lowest available meetings, 4,263 medicines of the lowest worldwide,” said recommended the approval in the member countries. different concentrations and Dr Khoja. Speaking to Asharq of health projects, includ- Several GCC states, includ- packages were priced,” Dr Al Awsat daily after the meet- ing a 10-year project to fight Tel ing Qatar, are reducing the Al Obaidi said, adding the ing, he said the GCC is in the non-communicable diseases Fax prices of many medicines fol- medicines whose prices were final stages of completing the and measures to adopt World lowing the decision. approved totalled 2,704. smart card system and imple- Health Organisation (WHO) As part of the unified pro- Dr Tawfik Khoja, Director- menting a joint mechanism for standards for healthcare and curement plan, the GCC General, Executive Board, healthcare. He said the bloc is efficiency and a programme states issued 16 tenders in GCC Health Ministers’ awaiting formal confirmation seeking to curb smoking Tel 2014 in which 22 government Council, said member states of the shared venture from among GCC citizens. Fax agencies and 657 companies were able to significantly the health minister of every THE PENINSULA

Tel 100 global companies to attend Fax Tel expo to build and equip stadiums Fax DOHA: About 100 global the exhibition. ones with ultra modern stand- companies from 18 countries “We were surprised that ards. As for hospitality and are expected to participate in some countries applied to book guest reception services, he the first Qatar International 28,000sqm for their companies said work is ongoing with the Exhibition to build and equip though the designated area is first- tier hotels in Doha to host stadiums, to be held at Qatar 15,000sqm only. delegations. National Convention Centre “We have to put in place Once arrangements are ready Tel in June. standards to select companies they will be posted on the web- Fax The Pavillion Company for participating in the exhibition,” sites in Arabic and English so Organisation of Exhibitions said Al Darwish. that all prices of services are and Conferences said yesterday He explained that interna- available for companies keen preparations are in full swing. tional reputation and the abil- to participate. As for VIPs, the Tel The company is in the proc- ity to render services will be the organising company will book Fax ess of giving approval for par- main criteria for selecting the suites. ticipation of 18 countries which participants. Al Darwish said seminars applied to book spaces for their Al Darwish emphasised the and discussions will be held on www.marriottmarquisdoha.com big companies. national orientation of the exhi- the sidelines on economic and Issa Mohammed Mubarak Al East destination to organise bition and the priority given to investment circumstances in Tel + 974 44195000 Darwish (pictured), Chairman, championships such as the national companies. Qatar and the world with the Fax + 974 44195100 Board of Pavillion, said the recent Handball competition. The number of global compa- participation of experts in real idea to organise the exhibi- The series of championships nies in the event is expected to estate, market and tourism. tion came out of the keenness will reach its apex in the FIFA reach 100 that are specialised in Discussions with government to contribute and provide all World Cup of 2022. construction and commissioning officials on services and prestig- capabilities at the highest lev- He said so far 18 countries of auditoriums, besides e-com- ious projects on the way to 2022 els in all fields, including sports with more than one company, panies able to transform stadi- will also be held. as Qatar has become a Middle have applied for large areas at ums into environment-friendly THE PENINSULA SUNDAY 8 FEBRUARY 2015 08 VIEWS www.thepeninsulaqatar.com

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Stalemate on Kiev Cartoon Arts International / The New York Times Syndicate

HE UKRAINE crisis is spinning out of control. For the first time, it’s sowing divisions in the anti- Russian camp and the seriousness of the situation Tcan be gauged from the fact that German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President François Hollande flew Israelis have a chance to Moscow on Friday evening to broker a peace deal with Vladimir Putin. Their urgent trip to Moscow came after proposals that the United States should supply Ukraine with defensive weapons. Merkel had cancelled a proposed to dump Netanyahu summit in Kazakhstan with Putin weeks ago because of the dim prospect that the Russian ruler would agree to respect BY JONATHAN FREEDLAND to becoming what one Israeli journalist states, one that would include an Israeli the ceasefire his government agreed to in September. That described to me as “an isolated, pariah pullback from occupied Palestinian ter- the German leader suddenly decided to fly to Moscow shows NE OF THE few things state”. They know that Israel has to ritory. Banishing Bibi could unlock all not any softening of the Russian position but an increase in most world leaders, and change course – to end the occupa- sorts of possibilities. European anxiety that any move by Washington to supply doubtless much of world tion and pursue an accommodation And yet few would bet it’s going to Kiev with defensive weapons might aggravate the tension and opinion, can agree on is with the Palestinians – if it is not to happen. The polls have shown an uptick that they’d like to see the be pushed further out into the cold. for Netanyahu’s Likud in recent days, complicate the crisis. Oback of Binyamin Netanyahu. The ici- European parliaments voting to rec- and that might be down to his oppo- At a gathering of world leaders in Munich, Western ness of the relationship between Israel’s ognise Palestinian statehood, irritable nents, a supposed dream ticket of leaders challenged Putin to prove he wants peace in Ukraine. prime minister and Barack Obama Democrats in Washington: the signs are Labour’s Isaac Herzog and Tzipi Livni, The conference also highlighted an emerging rift on how turned to permafrost long ago, but even already there. the former foreign minister. A visit to to respond if the peace initiative fails. Unfortunately, the Bibi’s fellow rightists find him unbear- The complaint against Netanyahu is their HQ suggested a low-energy cam- rift pits eastern European nations and vocal members of able. Note the unguarded remarks of not that he has failed to make peace paign, lacking the sheer hunger nec- Nicolas Sarkozy picked up by an open or solve the problem – most know essary to oust a bare-knuckle fighter the US Congress, who want to send arms to the Ukrainian mic in 2011: “I cannot stand him. He’s a how hard that it is. It is that he offers like Bibi. Herzog has a version of Ed government, against western European states who are liar,” the then French president confided no political horizon at all, merely an Miliband syndrome: the smart scion against such a move because it will undermine the progress to his US counterpart. “You’re fed up everlasting status quo. I was told that of Labour aristocracy who just doesn’t made so far. In the middle is the with him?” said Obama. “I have to deal Israel’s military brass fear the West look like a prime minister. The Haaretz Obama administration, which says with him every day.” Bank could “blow up this year”, partly political correspondent Barak Ravid A US proposal it has not made up its mind. There was nothing much either of because Palestinians see no prospect of says Herzog is leading a “bad campaign, them could do about Netanyahu. Only any change. that’s disorganised, lacking in creativity to supply The Merkel-Hollande plan one group of people – Israeli voters – Some insist such worries are the pre- and with nothing on the ground”. He proposes a buffer zone of 50km can get rid of him, and on March 17 serve of the elite. But the rest of Israeli has failed to capitalise on the inequal- Ukraine with to 70km and requires Russian- they’ll have their chance. No doubt society has its own reasons to dismiss ity issue or to channel the public’s deep backed separatists to withdraw to those outside Israel, given a vote, would Bibi. Israel has gone from one of the frustration, despite promoting several defensive ceasefire lines that were agreed find the decision straightforward: eject- world’s most equal societies to one of leaders of the 2011 protests to Labour’s ing Netanyahu as punishment for last the most unequal in a generation, the senior ranks. in Minsk in September. In return, weapons is summer’s Gaza bombardment, which gap between the super-rich and the rest But the problem goes deeper. “Bibi is the eastern provinces would be cost more than 2,100 Palestinian lives, widening each year. I met professional still the authentic voice of the majority threatening to given greater autonomy. But or for his continuing building of settle- couples in excellent jobs who can’t afford of Israelis,” says the author Tom Segev. optimism is not very high about ments in the occupied West Bank. But to buy a home without parental help. The one thing no Israeli ever wants to complicate the the success of the plan. “It is Israelis have a host of additional reasons Add to that the constant swirl of be is a freier – a sucker, a naive fool uncertain whether it will lead to to prise Bibi from the prime ministerial accusations about the Netanyahu house- who’s taken in. Even if Israelis dislike crisis. chair he’s been glued to for nine of the hold – including the upcoming findings Netanyahu and despise his wife, they success, but from my point of view past 19 years. of an investigation into the spending don’t fear that he will be a freier in and that of the French president A series of conversations I had in habits of the first couple – and it’s not negotiations with the Palestinians or it is definitely worth trying,” Israel this week made clear that close hard to see why a recent poll found that anyone else. An Israeli electorate still Merkel said about the plan. to the top of that list is his catastrophic 66% of Israelis wanted him gone. on its guard, still anxious about personal The European stand is that US arms supplies would handling of Washington, a relationship The end of the Bibi era would be security – however irrational that may simply lead to another escalation by Russia and more intense regarded as the bedrock of Israel’s secu- a clear boost for those desperate for seem to people far away – might well rity. Netanyahu has alienated Obama change in the apparently never-ending conclude that it’s safer with Bibi than fighting. Already the position of many countries is that there personally – not least by hosting what Israeli-Palestinian conflict. My conver- with the untestedfreier-in-waiting they is “no military solution” to the Ukrainian crisis. was all but a campaign rally for his sations with those hoping for a place in detect in Herzog. As leaders talk, fighting is continuing on the ground. opponent Mitt Romney in 2012 – but the next government were full of talk This being Israel, everything could Fresh fighting in Ukraine claimed 12 more lives as Kiev has now infuriated the Democratic of new approaches, including thinking change between now and March 17. warned the Russian-backed separatists were planning a new party too, by accepting a Republican regionally: seeking an understanding Labour only has to edge a single seat invitation to address Congress in March, with the wider Arab world, especially ahead of Likud for Netanyahu to be offensive. Some 5,400 people have been killed since the start an initiative in which the White House that part of it whose fear of a surging finished. But right now his opponents of the conflict in April and rebels are “accumulating forces played no part. Until now, US support Islamic State might outweigh its unwill- look like a team facing an open goal for further offensive operations on Debaltseve and Mariupol,” for Israel has always been bipartisan. ingness to engage with Israel. Those who and poised to miss. They need to raise the Ukraine government said. But it goes further. Many Israelis, have grown pessimistic about a deal with their game – and fast. Otherwise he will Putin is a tough leader who can’t be persuaded or coerced. especially those who travel in, or do Mahmoud Abbas, the Palestinian presi- renew the lease on an office he has come This is a crisis that is likely to linger for a long time. It’s the business with, the wider world are dent, can nevertheless imagine reach- to regard as his own. aware that their country is on course ing a bargain with a coalition of Arab THE GUARDIAN ordinary Ukrainians who are suffering the most• The other side Quote of Confusion after IMF review the day HE SIXTH review of Pakistan’s is Rs2,756bn as of the last review, disappointed when the United States these expenses might be, but accord- IMF programme has concluded whereas the government budgeted failed to commit an expected $250m ing to media reports the total sum may successfully. The latter remains revenue collection is Rs2,810bn. The for the rehabilitation of the IDPs. Only be as large as Rs100bn. The IMF mis- Too many times on track with all targets met new revenue target following the sixth days later, Mr Dar announced that the sion chief has confirmed that the gov- T President Putin has and no waivers being sought. But review is now Rs2,691bn. fiscal deficit target ‘may remain above ernment delegation did indeed raise the confusion has arisen in the wake of The matter becomes important the target of 4.9pc of GDP’ due to matter of additional spending arising promised peace and an announcement that the revenue because since January the government expenses arising from implementation from NAP, but that no changes in the target envisaged in the programme has been searching for ways to accom- of NAP and rehabilitation of the IDPs. fiscal deficit target were approved. So delivered tanks, troops has been revised downward while the modate expenditures arising from Then again, on the eve of his departure the question naturally arises: if everyone and weapons. So we fiscal deficit target remains the same, implementation of the National Action for Dubai to take part in negotiations now agrees that revenues will be lower will continue to provide therefore implying that expenditure Plan, and rehabilitation of the IDPs. with the Fund, the finance minister than projected, and expenditures will cuts will become necessary. The These expenditures, which were not repeated that the fiscal deficit target be higher, how does the government Ukraine with security downward revision in the revenue budgeted, are expected to soar in the for the year may not be met because intend to keep within the deficit target? assistance, not to target is actually Rs65bn going by second half of the fiscal year. In early of additional spending due to NAP and One way could be for the government Fund figures, or Rs119bn according to January, the government expected to the IDPs. to step up its efforts to obtain interna- encourage war but to Finance Minister Ishaq Dar. The revenue raise $380m from the third donors’ So far, no figures have been released tional assistance. allow Ukraine to defend Joe Biden target envisaged in the IMF programme conference held in Islamabad, but was by the government about how large DAWN itself. US Vice President SUNDAY 8 FEBRUARY 2015 VIEWS www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 09 Iran’s political behaviour towards Arab world

against the country, ultimately had been an Arab political project, Undoubtedly, Iranian rhetorical mounting Arab rage at the crimes plays into the hands of extrem- contributed to the growth of its or at the very least a single Arab ploys have also aided the construc- being committed by Iranian prox- ist Islamist movements that were indigenous scientific and economic state that would promulgate such tion of an imagined, separate Shia ies in Iraq and Syria. never happy with the demo- resources. As the revolution trans- a regional state enterprise, then community, even in those Arab Of course, Arab organisational cratic nature of the Arab Spring formed into a state, religious con- this would have created a balance countries where the Shia never capability and awareness today is revolutions. fessionalism became a component of interests that regional powers lived in isolation. nothing like that of the Ottoman Besides the adverse effect of a national identity that affirmed such as Turkey and Iran would be Previously, Shia communities Empire in the 19th century; addi- that such groups have on Arab Iranian nationalistic pride. compelled to respect. across the Arab region filled the tionally, Iran’s exercise of any societies, and the obstacles they The primary reason for an cadres and the leaderships of influence it has in Arab countries present to our democratic and Collision course imbalance of power between Iran the Baathist, Communist, Syrian would always rely on exploitation national advancement, they also In its foreign relations, the and the Arab states, therefore, Nationalist and Arab nationalist of societal cleavages that it pre- extract a price from Iran, dem- Islamic Republic adopted an lies in the lack of an Arab state movements in the modern era. sumably does not want to inflame. onstrating that Iranian attempts approach that put it on a col- enterprise. Nevertheless, there is It was only in the aftermath There is one lesson from history to dominate the Arab Levant will lision course with Israel and a question that must be answered. of Iran’s Islamic Revolution that that Iranian politicians rarely pay not be a cakewalk. the American hegemon. On the Does the lack of a joint Arab these groups in the Arab countries attention to. Not only will Iranian attempts BY DR AZMI BISHARA regional level, a presumption of enterprise justify the violation of began to join political formations Soviet influence expanded to dominate Arab countries have dual loyalty of Shia Muslims in the Arab homeland’s resources created on sectarian lines, a phe- throughout the 1970s to the point an adverse effect on Arab Sunni he Islamic Republic of neighbouring countries informed and the imposition of hegemony nomenon that reached its apex that it seemed that the socialist and Shia communities, but these Iran succeeded in consol- the replacement of religion — Islam by other regional states? over the past 15 years. camp would vanquish capital- will also reflect negatively on Iran idating an existing nation as a whole — with the specific con- If the answer is yes, then that The Arab states facilitated this ism. The Soviets’ economic and itself: the militia which it is form- Tstate, and in establish- fession of Shiism as a vehicle for would also justify colonisation by process by failing to understand political regimes, however, simply ing to fight this sectarian battle ing a system of government with expansion of Iran’s influence in its imperial powers, so long as the the strict reliance of national sov- could not withstand the pressures resembles the Islamic State group a modicum of political pluralism geopolitical backyard. colonised people lacked a national ereignty on citizenship within the resulting from their competition — the only difference being that within the confines of a religious- In reality, this was a self-fulfill- enterprise. One would expect modern state. with capitalism, particularly fol- the Iranian militia are answerable confessional government presided ing presumption that divided Arab this attitude to be opposed by the lowing the policy of détente. to a regional paymaster. over by the clergy. societies along confessional lines, Islamic Republic, which adopts Syria and Lebanon In the end, military intervention With time, their impact — even It was a system where the econ- not only on the local, communi- an anti-colonial, pan-Islamist and None of this justifies Iran’s pos- in Afghanistan and an arms race on Shia communities — in the omy and society were subservient tarian level but on the national Third World rhetoric. turing towards the Arab Levant, imposed by the Reagan adminis- Arab region will be poisonous. to politics, but one which afforded level as well, creating new “imag- which it treats as the “Sick Man tration broke the USSR’s economy Any way you look at it, Iran’s a relatively wide margin of free- ined communities”. This atti- Ideological developments of the Middle East” — just as the and administrative system. increasingly bold interventions dom for commerce, given the over- tude applies equally to pragmatic The Iranian approach to Arab Ottoman Empire was seen in the If Afghanistan was a bitter pill in the Arab region cannot be lap of interests between the bazaar Iranian policymakers with bazaar causes, and particularly the con- 19th century by its rivals, who for the Soviets to swallow, the Arab regarded positively. merchants and the clerics. motives and those motivated by flict with Israel, has progressed later wrangled for bigger por- East will be too much for Iran to Ultimately, it will not be the The Islamic regime had gone messianic religious beliefs. from being primarily ideologi- tions of the Arab countries that chew. This is not just because of miserable condition in which the through a period of transforma- Meanwhile, many Arabs, cally motivated by the Islamic were its legacy as the “Sick Man the high economic and political Arab states find themselves that tion during which it expunged the including leftists, nationalists and Revolution, with tangible gains of Europe”. price tag inherent in this Iranian will save them, but rather their left and the liberals, followed by a Islamists, came to see Iran as a for Arab resistance movements, Iran’s official proclamations endeavour, but also because of the people’s aspirations for freedom suppression of a reformist camp powerful neighbour which could to a vehicle for the justification of to this effect grow bolder every wars of attrition being waged in and justice. and the absorption of those ele- play a constructive role in sup- Iranian foreign policy gains and day, and the country’s politicians Syria, Iraq and Yemen. The author is an intellectual, ments within it that were pre- porting Arab causes. direct tutelage over Shia Arab become increasingly unbridled academic and General Director pared to be absorbed. Previously, I had been adamant citizens, with disregard for their in their public pronouncements. Adverse effects of The Arab Center for Research A blockade, unjustly imposed in the opinion that, provided there countries’ national sovereignty. The thing is, they are now facing Clearly, Iranian intervention and Policy Studies The war between Congress and the White House BY BILL SCHNEIDER

ost Americans think the US government is dysfunctional. They’re right. It’s because we have two governments at war with each other: The Blue Mgovernment, led by President Barack Obama in the White House, versus the Red government, led by the Republicans who control Congress. The Blue government puts income inequality at the top of the agenda. The Red government puts debt reduction at the top. What we’re seeing now is the Blue government and the Red government each acting as if the other doesn’t exist. The US government is not set up to run that way. Obama enraged Republicans when he announced executive actions on immigration and Cuba. House Speaker John Boehner enraged Democrats when he invited the prime minister of Israel to address Congress without first informing the White House. Result: gridlock. Competition is essential to our sports and to our democracy. But when a game, like the Super Bowl, is over, the competition ends. It’s the same with political competition. It is supposed to end when the election is over. But now it doesn’t ever seem to end. Especially when the people elect a Blue team to the White House and a Red team to Congress. Each can claim to be the champion — as Obama did during his State of the Union speech last month. He reminded Republicans that he had run two presidential campaigns, and “I won both of them.” The Blue government’s goal is to end the austerity regime imposed by the budget deal of 2011. That resulted in sequesters — indiscriminate across-the-board budget cuts that slashed domestic and defence spending. Democrats are thrilled that Obama wants to ignore the sequesters, increase spend- ing and pass tax cuts that would benefit working- and middle-class Americans. How does he propose to pay for it? By raising taxes on wealthier Americans. Republicans A member of the armed forces of the self-proclaimed Donetsk People’s Republic looks on near a building destroyed during battles with reject that out of hand. the Ukrainian armed forces in Vuhlehirsk, Donetsk region. Democrats hope to entice Republicans into a deal by increasing military spending as well as domestic. “No foe in the field,” a retired Marine general told the Senate Armed Service Committee, “can wreak such havoc on our military security that mindless sequestration is achieving today.” Republicans are split. Defence hawks share the general’s alarm. Fiscal hawks say Arming Ukraine would be dangerous spending is spending — and it’s all bad. Democrats have to be careful about raising taxes. The White House got a stern BY NADER MOUSAVIZADEH sober path, addressing Moscow’s annexa- finance, non-state groups in neighbour- warning last week after it proposed taxing the earnings of 529 college-savings tion of Crimea with firm diplomacy in the ing states — all could become weapons accounts. It’s mostly affluent Americans who benefit from those accounts (they dangerous, possibly irreversible, pursuit of a peaceful solution. Even as this in such a response. That is also without have the money to put away). But the backlash to the president’s tax proposal was dynamic of conflict is taking hold conflict has demonstrated the speed with considering the risk of a catastrophic so fierce — from Democrats as well as Republicans — that Obama had to back down. Aof Russian-Western relations. which Washington can push for sanctions miscalculation or overreaction by a single A lot of people who don’t consider themselves rich take advantage of tax-free college In every arena of the Ukraine crisis, whose consequences are largely borne by pilot, nuclear submarine captain or militia savings plans. escalation is the order of the day. On the Europeans, Merkel has made maintaining member with a shoulder-fired missile. With the deficit now more or less under control, the Red government insists that ground, where fresh fighting rages in the trans-Atlantic, as well as European, unity In an atmosphere of zero trust, any- the highest priority should be reducing the national debt. Interest payments on the Donbass region. In the skies over Europe, her lodestar. thing becomes possible. debt could become a serious burden in the future, though they are manageable at the where British fighter jets are intercepting What the current escalation risks, If a diplomatic solution is to be found moment because interest rates are so low. In addition, the impending retirement of 76 Russian nuclear bombers. In Washington, however, is a breakdown of this unity — before — and not after — a terrible confla- million baby boomers will likely put a huge burden on Social Security and Medicare. where Congress and ambitious policymak- even as the possibility of open conflict gration involving the world’s two nuclear Republicans want entitlement reform. That’s a risky goal for them. In the last ers with an eye on the 2016 presidential is growing. A new approach is urgently superpowers, a new US-German diplo- two national elections, Republicans did best with voters 65 and older. Any proposal elections are forcing the White House’s needed. matic initiative toward Moscow must be to “restructure” Social Security or Medicare will put the senior vote at risk — even hand on lethal assistance to Kiev. In It must begin with a reality check on launched. if the reforms affect only future retirees. AARP, the nation’s largest interest group, Moscow, where the few remaining voices the nature of the adversary, and the futil- Moscow will have to accept that the for example, is extremely protective of those programs because they benefit seniors. of compromise are considered weaklings ity of the current course of action. The people of Ukraine freely elect their own The US Constitution facilitates gridlock by creating a separation of powers. In or traitors. Even in the realm of global features of Russian President Vladimir leaders and can choose membership in parliamentary democracies, however, gridlock is unconstitutional. A core principle finance, where expelling Russia from the Putin’s regime that its critics most like to the European Union. The West will have of the British constitution is, “Her Majesty’s government must be carried on.” SWIFT payment system is now under cite — kleptocracy, repression, chauvin- to accept that the minority rights we If the government can’t govern, it falls. Parliament is dissolved and new elections serious consideration. ism, revisionism, paranoia — are the very trumpet elsewhere also should apply to are held until the people elect a government that can govern decisively. There is need for perspective amid the characteristics that will make it utterly Russian-speakers in eastern Ukraine, and The United States has no queen. There is no constitutional requirement that the increasingly unhinged talk of war with unwilling to capitulate under pressure, be that membership in the North Atlantic government has to function. Last month’s Fox News poll found that, by three to one, Russia. it financial or military. Treaty Organisation will make Ukraine Americans see the United States as a “dysfunctional family.” Though Americans Memories are short. The fallout from The more the West emphasises a — and the alliance itself — less secure, elect a Democratic president and a Republican Congress, they expect them to work the wars of 9/11 in Afghanistan, Iraq, belligerent course of action, the more not more. together. Libya and now Syria has all but con- Putin’s popular support, already in a For this kind of settlement to be pos- And they often do — when the country is faced with a crisis. That’s the only way sumed Western strategic thinking. But range undreamed of by Western leaders sible, the Kremlin will have to walk back to get the Blue government and the Red government to collaborate. the Cold War ended only 25 years ago, and (80 percent approval), will harden rather its most extreme rhetoric — and ambi- But the crisis has to be real. The test is whether it generates an overwhelming Ukraine’s singular strategic significance than soften. tions — about a Novorossiya. The West sense of public urgency. Several potential crises are coming down the road in the to Russia ought to make the memory of The West is increasingly dealing with will have to reverse its folly of walking next two years: funding the Homeland Security Department; raising the debt ceil- a nuclear crisis over Cuba seem positively a government in Moscow whose most the people of Ukraine out on a plank of ing; financing the depleted Highway Trust Fund; slowing climate change; renewing quaint by comparison. liberal and pluralist elements see a real- military and economic dependency on the Export-Import Bank that helps finance exports. Also looming is the threat that Russia still possesses a nuclear arse- ity of economic war with the West, and Europe in a conflict with Russia that has Islamic State can seize and control much of Syria or Iraq, or that Russia will take nal in excess of 8,000 warheads. It has a a future of responses “without limits” to no sustainable political support among over Ukraine. conventional military of nearly one mil- further sanctions — as that most pliable of European populations. It will be interesting to see which of these emerge as genuine crises, where the lion men under arms, and in the age of Russian leaders, Dimitri Medvedev, noted The contours of a deal acceptable to public demands action. Republicans have learned — or should have learned — that cyberwarfare, has the ability to inflict on January 27. both sides has long been clear. Given the they can never be seen as responsible for creating the crisis. That means no govern- catastrophic damage on critical Western Moscow will view a decision to expel cataclysmic consequences of an armed ment shutdowns. No threats to default on the national debt. infrastructure. the Russian banking system from SWIFT conflict with Russia, only the absence of If the crisis is not real, the Red and Blue governments will remain locked in a To their credit, President Barack as not just an economic measure but as an all-hands-on-deck diplomatic push by stand-off. Obama and German Chancellor Angela a strategic one. To be met by any and all the West is a mystery. It may last for the next two years. REUTERS Merkel have sought to keep the West on a means at Russia’s disposal. Cyber, energy, REUTERS SUNDAY 8 FEBRUARY 2015 10 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com MIDDLE EAST Bombings in Coalition planes bomb IS ‘capital’ Baghdad kill 23 bodies found in Iraq mass grave BEIRUT: Coalition warplanes respond to us privately,” said Carl at least 32 pounded a stronghold of the and Marsha Mueller. BAGHDAD: Attacks in Islamic State group in Syria The Syrian Observatory for Baghdad, including a suicide yesterday amid uncertainty Human Rights said the US-led bombing inside a restaurant, over the fate of a US hostage the coalition fighting IS bombarded killed at least 32 people yester- jihadists claim was killed in an the Raqa area yesterday for a sec- day, hours before a years-old earlier raid. ond consecutive day. nightly curfew was due to be The United Arab Emirates, More than 30 IS fighters had lifted, officials said. meanwhile, said it would station been killed in raids on Friday Doing away with the curfew is a squadron of F-16 warplanes in around Raqa, said the Britain- a major change to a long-standing Jordan to support it in strikes based monitor. policy aimed at curbing violence in against the IS, who burned alive A coalition statement said it the capital by limiting movement a captured Jordanian airman. had carried out a total of 11 air at night. The parents of American strikes against IS in Syria and 15 The suicide bomber struck in Kayla Jean Mueller said they in Iraq during a 24-hour period the Baghdad Jadida area in the were “hopeful” she was still alive, up to yesterday morning, includ- capital’s east, killing at least 23 after IS said she had been buried ing in Raqa. people and wounding at least 43, under rubble following a strike It said one air strike struck officials said updating an earlier by a Jordanian warplane on their multiple IS weapons storage facil- toll. self-proclaimed capital Raqa. ities in the Raqa area. There was no immediate claim The United States said there Jordanian state media said its of responsibility for the blast, was no proof that the 26-year-old warplanes had launched new anti- which was one of the deadliest to aid worker from Arizona had been IS raids yesterday, for the third hit the capital in months. killed. consecutive day, without saying But suicide bombings in Iraq are Mueller’s parents appealed to what the targets were. almost exclusively carried out by her captors to contact them and Coalition partner UAE said Sunni extremists, including the for her safe return, in a statement an unspecified number of F-16s Islamic State (IS) jihadist group. Residents walk past damaged buildings after air strikes by forces loyal to Syria’s President Bashar Al Assad in carried by NBC News. would be deployed in Jordan to Another attack — said to have “This news leaves us concerned, support the Hashemite kingdom’s the Douma neighbourhood of Damascus. been either a suicide or roadside yet, we are still hopeful that Kayla military in the fight against “the bombing — hit a commercial area is alive. We have sent you a pri- brutal terrorist organisation” IS. in central Baghdad, killing at least vate message and ask that you An activist in Raqa who asked nine people and wounding 28, offi- not to be identified said uncon- Syria death toll now exceeds 210,000 cials said revising a lower toll. firmed reports indicate Mueller As such attacks are carried out IS militant had been moved recently from a AMMAN: The death toll after Bashar Al Assad’s family in much higher — perhaps by more during the day or early evening women’s prison in the city to an nearly four years of civil war March 2011 degenerated into an than 85,000. when most people are out, the cur- IS camp farther east. in Syria has risen to 210,060, armed insurgency following a Abdul Rahman said all the few has little impact on that type ‘surrenders’ The camp “has recently been nearly half of them civilians, fierce security crackdown, with cases included in its 210,000 of violence. ISTANBUL: A jihadist the target of intense coalition but the real figure is prob- the sectarian nature of the con- death count were those it could Yesterday’s attacks illustrate from the Islamic State (IS) raids”, he said. “At the moment, ably much higher, the Syrian flict echoing across the Middle verify with either name and the persistent danger of violence militant group surrendered we cannot confirm whether she Observatory for Human Rights East. identification documents, or pic- in Baghdad even as the nightly to the Turkish army on the was killed in the raids.” said yesterday. The Observatory’s toll could tures or videos. curfew was set to end at midnight border between Turkey and Jordan rejected the jihadists’ The Observatory, which is not be independently verified. Syria had a population of some in the city. Syria, the armed forces said claim that its warplanes killed based in Britain and has a net- The rights group said it had 23 million before the outbreak Prime Minister Haider Al yesterday. Mueller, calling it an “old and sick work of activists across Syria, counted 35,827 Syrian rebels of the war. Beside the dead and Abadi ordered the move this week, The IS jihadist “surrendered trick” to deter coalition strikes. said that 10,664 children and killed and 45,385 from Assad’s injured, the United Nations says a decision his spokesman said was together with his Kalashnikov IS said none of its fighters was 6,783 women were among the army. some 3.73 million Syrians have taken so there would “be normal (AK-47), seven magazines and wounded in the raid, and it did dead. But the group’s chief, Rami fled the country and officially life as much as possible, despite 180 cartridges,” the army said not publish any pictures of her Peaceful protests against four Abdul Rahman, said the true registered as refugees abroad. the existence of a state of war”. in a statement. body. decades of rule by President toll on both sides was likely to be REUTERS The decision to lift the cur- It said that the surrender The official Emirati news few comes as Iraqi forces battle took place on Friday in the agency WAM said Abu Dhabi UAE’s unwavering and constant In northern Iraq, where a resident opened the grave near to regain ground from IS jihad- Suruc district on the border, Crown Prince Mohammed bin solidarity with Jordan and its Kurdish forces have pushed back the village of Bardiyan on Friday, ists with support from US-led air close to the Syrian town of Zayed Al Nahayan, deputy head leading role and immense sacri- IS, the remains of 23 men from said Fuad Othman, a spokesman strikes as well as international Kobane, which Kurdish fight- of the UAE armed forces, had fices for the security and stability the Yazidi religious minority were for the Kurdish regional govern- advisers and trainers. ers recaptured from jihadists ordered the deployment of the of the region as embodied by mar- found in a mass grave, an official ment. Othman said those killed It was initially feared that last month. AFP F-16s in Jordan. tyr and hero Maaz Al Kassasbeh,” said yesterday. had been shot, and some had their Baghdad itself could be assaulted “The initiative... reaffirms the the agency reported. A team acting on a tip-off from hands bound. AFP by IS. But federal forces that were swept aside in the early days of the offensive have regained significant IS ‘sentenced’ US hostage to death last year: Activist territory with support from Shia militiamen, Sunni tribesmen and the US-led air strikes. WASHINGTON: The young American authorities said they could not confirm it. On July 12, militants told Mueller’s fam- pipeline to the militant group, Saalakhan In the north, forces from Iraq’s hostage who Islamic State says was killed Mueller’s family had long asked US offi- ily she would be executed in 30 days if said, without elaborating. autonomous Kurdish region are in a Jordanian air strike was condemned cials, aid groups and media outlets not to Pakistani neuroscientist Aafia Siddiqui was Siddiqui is serving 86 years in a prison also making gains against IS. to death by the militant group last use her name for fear the publicity could not released or the American’s family did medical centre in Texas. A jury convicted But gains by security forces year, according to an American Muslim induce Islamic State to harm her. After not pay a ransom of €5m, he said. her in 2010 of attempting to shoot and kill a have not stopped militants from activist. Islamic State’s claim on Friday, Mueller’s The information about the threats came group of FBI agents, US soldiers and inter- carrying out attacks in Baghdad, Islamic State seized aid worker Kayla parents issued a public statement on Friday from a representative of Mueller’s family, preters who were about to interrogate her which they were able to do even Mueller in 2013 in northern Syria and ini- night, identifying their daughter by name Saalakhan said. in Afghanistan for alleged links to Al Qaeda. when violence was at a low ebb in tially gave her a “life sentence” in retalia- and saying they remained hopeful she was Islamic State apparently did not carry Mueller was seized while leaving a 2011-2012. tion for the jailing in Texas of a Pakistani still alive. out its death sentence after Saalakhan and Doctors Without Borders hospital in the Scrapping the curfew does away woman whose case is a well-known cause Mueller’s family has not given details of an Arizona pastor wrote open letters to the northern Syrian city of Aleppo in August with a measure that restricted the among Islamist militants, said activist any communication with the militant group group. Siddiqui’s family rejected Islamic 2013. She had a record of volunteering lives of ordinary people while doing Mauri Saalakhan, who leads a US campaign and Saalakhan’s information could not be State’s attempt to link the two cases and abroad and was moved by the plight of civil- little to stop the near-daily attacks to free the Pakistani. verified. said it did not want Mueller to suffer. ians in Syria’s civil war. they have suffered for years. The militant group said on Friday Saalakhan said that last summer, as “I believe that the messages that went She had worked for a Turkish aid organi- Some Baghdad residents that Mueller, a 26-year-old from Islamic State extended its control over parts out after that threat was conveyed, both sation on the Syrian border and volunteered welcomed the decision for the Prescott, Arizona, was killed when of Iraq and Syria, the group threatened to from Aafia’s family and from us, I do believe for schools and aid organisations abroad, increased freedom of movement Jordanian fighter jets bombed a build- kill Mueller. Saalakhan first mentioned the those messages made their way to ISIS,” including in both in the West Bank and it brings, but others are worried it ing where she was being held. Jordan “sentencing” of Mueller in an open letter to said Saalakhan. Israel as well as in Dharamsala, India. could allow criminals and militias expressed doubt about the claim and US the group he released last year. Mueller’s family had a communications REUTERS to step up attacks. AFP

Abbas orders panel to oversee Palestinian ICC cases Iraq PM orders probe into RAMALLAH: Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas yes- killing of civilians in Anbar terday ordered the formation of a committee to oversee cases BAGHDAD: Iraq’s prime min- the sense of disenfranchisement to lodge with the International ister ordered an investigation among Sunnis when the jihadists Criminal Court, in a move likely yesterday into the killing of two swept across western and north- to further anger Israel. civilians at the main security ern Iraq last year. Many Sunnis The Palestinians formally joined office in western Anbar prov- now resent Islamic State but are the ICC last month, in a move that ince, where the army and Shia waiting to see if Abadi is serious will enable them to submit war and Sunni volunteers are fight- about reform. crimes and crimes against human- ing Islamic State insurgents. Local officials, a tribal leader ity complaints against Israel. The directive is the latest effort and an army officer said the two The new committee will be by Haider Al Abadi, a moderate men from a prominent Sunni headed by chief negotiator Saeb Shia Islamist who took office tribe were killed at the Anbar Erakat and include various fig- in September, to show that his Operations Command earlier in ures from the Palestinian politi- administration is transparent the day after being detained at a cal scene, universities and human and accountable to all sects as the checkpoint operated by a mixture rights organisations, said the offi- government seeks to roll back IS of security forces and Sunni and cial Wafa news agency. gains in the country’s north and Shia volunteer fighters. The committee “will identify west. Anbar has myriad pro-govern- and prepare the documents and Abadi’s official Facebook page ment forces fighting, ranging from records that the state of Palestine called the killing “a heinous Shia militias to Sunni tribesmen, will present to the ICC,” the crime ... intended to sow discord all of whom have been accused of agency said, citing Abbas. and distract (citizens) and the committing human rights abuses On January 16, ICC prosecutor security forces from fighting the in the war against Islamic State. Fatou Bensouda opened a prelim- Daesh criminal gang,” — a refer- “These men were innocent. inary investigation into possible ence to Islamic State. They were driving a car that war crimes committed against Abadi’s predecessor, Nuri Al had licence plates from Saudi Palestinians, including during last Maliki, was accused of protect- Arabia and they were stopped Protesters hold Palestinian flags as they stand next to Israeli soldiers and border policemen during a protest year’s Gaza war. ing Iraq’s Shia community while by the Hashid Shaabi, taken to About 2,200 Palestinians and against Jewish settlements in Jabaa, south of the West Bank city of Bethlehem, yesterday. turning a blind eye to allega- the Anbar Operations Command 73 Israelis were killed during the tions of abuses against the Sunni and executed there by having 50-day conflict in July and August. the prosecutor’s decision, call- cooperates with Hamas, a terror terror while maintaining interna- minority by the security forces their throats slit,” Sabah Karhut, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin ing it “scandalous” and “absurd” group that commits war crimes, tional law, and has an independent and Shia militias. Anbar provincial council chief, Netanyahu reacted angrily to since “the Palestinian Authority in contrast to Israel that fights justice system.” AFP Islamic State was able to exploit said. REUTERS SUNDAY 8 FEBRUARY 2015 MIDDLE EAST www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 11 Failure of talks will put Rowhani at risk: Iran Fear of president losing clout to hardliners

ANKARA/NEW YORK: that any such warnings had been demand that Western powers Iran’s foreign minister has received from the Iranians. “We’ll agree to the quick end of oil and warned the United States that leave assessment of Iranian politics banking sanctions, Western and failure to agree a nuclear deal to the Iranians but this rumour is Iranian officials say. would likely herald the political untrue,” the official said on condi- One of the Iranian officials, who demise of pragmatist President tion of anonymity. also had direct access to the talks, Hassan Rowhani, Iranian offi- But the Iranian officials insisted said the Americans were talking cials said, raising the stakes as that Zarif had raised the concern in terms of years for the sanctions the decade-old stand-off nears with Kerry. The two have met relief while Iran wanted curbs on its endgame. repeatedly in recent weeks in an oil and banking to be lifted within Mohammad Javad Zarif pressed attempt to break the impasse, six months. the concern with US Secretary of most recently on Friday when Rowhani was elected in 2013 on State John Kerry at several meet- they talked for over an hour on the promises of ending the crippling ings in recent weeks, according sidelines of the Munich Security Western sanctions, improving the to three senior Iranian officials, Conference. economy and reducing the coun- who said Iran had also raised the “As Rowhani is on the frontline, try’s diplomatic isolation. Supporters of the Shia Houthi movement watch a televised address by their chief Abdel Malek Al Houthi in a issue with other Western powers. naturally he will be more harmed,” But he faces a worsening power northern Sana’a stadium yesterday. Zarif’s warning has not been pre- said one of the officials, who has struggle with Iran’s Supreme viously reported. direct knowledge of Zarif’s discus- Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Western officials acknowledged sions with Kerry. who has said Iran should immu- that the move may be just a nego- Other Western officials said the nise itself against sanctions, sug- tiating tactic to persuade them to Iranian delegation had raised the gesting that he is prepared to live Houthis defend Yemen takeover give more ground, but said they same concern in talks recently. with them. Khamenei has the final shared the view that Rowhani’s If the talks fail, Rowhani would word on any deal. SANA’A: Shia leader Abdel in September and seized the presi- demonstrators in Sana’a and political clout would be heavily likely be sidelined and his influence Rowhani has warned that the Malek Al Houthi yesterday dential palace and key government detained 17 of them in a second damaged by the failure of talks. dramatically reduced, giving hard- Islamic Republic needs to end defended his militia’s establish- buildings last month, prompt- successive day of anti-Houthi The warning that a break- liners like Iran’s Revolutionary its isolation to help its economy, ment of transitional bodies to ing Western-backed President protests. down in talks would empower Guard Corps an upper hand, which has also been hit hard by resolve Yemen’s political crisis. Abdrabuh Mansur Hadi and Tribal leaders in the east- Iran’s conservative hardliners Iranian officials and Western ana- plunging oil prices. “This historic and responsible Prime Minister Khalid Bahah to ern province of Marib said they comes as the 12-year-old stand- lysts say. Just as Iranian negotiators initiative is in the interest of the tender their resignations. “rejected the authors of this coup”. off reaches a crucial phase, with a A comprehensive nuclear deal is say privately that their room for country... because it fills a political In an announcement yesterday, The Sunni Islamist party Al March deadline to reach a politi- seen as crucial to reducing the risk compromise is narrowing, so too vacuum,” Houthi said in a televised the Houthis said Hadi’s defence Islah, a major player in Yemeni cal agreement ahead of a final of a wider Middle East war, at a is that of the United States and address to his supporters gathered minister, General Mahmud Al politics, rejected the “unilateral” deal by June 30. time when Iran is deeply involved European delegations, Western in a northern Sana’a stadium. Subaihi, would chair a newly Houthi initiative and called for The agreement aims to end in conflicts in Syria and Iraq. After officials say. He said it was “in the interest formed “security commission”, it to be scrapped in favour of a sanctions in exchange for curbs nearly a year of talks, negotia- Both Israel and Saudi Arabia of all Yemenis without exception”, which also included the outgoing return to political dialogue. on Tehran’s nuclear programme, tors failed for the second time in are suspicious of the US deci- including the separatists of south- interior minister. Even the General People’s though hard-to-bridge differences November to meet a self-imposed sion to engage with Iran on the ern Yemen. The commission’s task would be Congress of ousted president Ali remain, particularly on the timing deadline for an agreement. nuclear issue. Israel has threat- The formation of a “presiden- to “lead the country’s affairs until Abdullah Saleh, who has become of the relief on economic sanctions Iran rejects allegations it is ened to use military force against tial council”, announced on Friday, the establishment of a presidential an ally of the Shias, said the moves and the duration of the deal. developing the capability to pro- Iranian nuclear sites if diplomacy would also head off the threat council”. were unconstitutional and called Both US President Barack duce atomic weapons. But it has fails to contain the threat it feels from Al Qaeda which has a strong The announcement was fol- for dialogue. Obama and Rowhani, who Iranian refused to halt uranium enrich- Tehran poses. presence in east and south Yemen, lowed by a blast outside the UN envoy Jamal Benomar, officials say has staked his career ment and other sensitive atomic The United States, officials Houthi said. Houthi-controlled presidential who has been striving to seek a on the deal, are facing stiff work, leading to US, European familiar with the talks say, has “If Al Qaeda takes control of palace, and protests by thousands negotiated solution, was back in domestic opposition to an agree- Union and UN sanctions that have already compromised on the issue the country, it will plot against our of people on the streets of Yemeni Sana’a yesterday and expected to ment, narrowing the scope for hobbled its economy. of how many centrifuges Iran brothers in Saudi Arabia and the cities, witnesses said. meet political leaders, the Houthi- compromise. The key sticking point in the would be allowed to operate. Gulf,” he warned. Gunmen loyal to the Shia mili- controlled state new agency Saba A senior US official denied talks at the moment is Iran’s REUTERS The Shia militia overran Sana’a tia fired into the air to disperse reported. AFP

Seven migrants die as boat sinks off Turkey Turkey spy chief quits

ISTANBUL: At least seven He said the boat had gone A Greek coast guard spokes- towards EU states in small boats, illegal immigrants trying to down due to engine failure off the man said the accident took place but the journey is fraught with to enter politics reach the European Union from Mediterranean town of Marmaris on Friday evening, adding there danger. Turkey drowned when their as it tried to reach the Greek had been 18 people on board the Thirty-seven migrants, believed ISTANBUL: Turkey’s pow- boat sank in Turkish waters, a island of Kos. wooden vessel. mainly to be of Afghan origin, lost erful intelligence chief, one senior official said yesterday. The migrants were mainly Turkey, which is already shel- their lives in November when their of the most steadfast allies Six people were rescued and two Iraqi and Iranian nationals, Cicek tering 1.7 million refugees from the overloaded boat sank in the Black of President Recep Tayyip are still missing from the stricken added. Syrian civil war, has become a key Sea off Istanbul. Erdogan, has resigned to stand vessel, which had 15 people on The Greek coast guard said it transit point for migrants seeking Smugglers in recent months for election as a lawmaker in board, the governor of Turkey’s was helping Turkey with the res- a better life in Europe. have also been using large cargo upcoming elections, the offi- Mugla province, Amir Cicek, told cue effort and had sent one heli- Many pay people smugglers ships to move illegal immigrants. cial Anatolia news agency said the official Anatolia news agency. copter and a patrol ship. thousands of dollars to travel AFP yesterday. The resignation of Hakan Fidan (pictured), who has headed the National Intelligence Agency (MIT) since 2010, could herald a major reshuffle of the Turkish Libyan factions UN chief in Riyadh to meet Saudi king government after June 7 legisla- tive elections. to resume talks RIYADH: UN Secretary During his two-day stay, Ban will also discuss regional issues, Turkey’s press have in recent insurgency and has been a key General Ban Ki-moon arrived will offer his condolences over including the Palestinian ques- days speculated feverishly that player in Turkey’s policy on the in Saudi Arabia yesterday on his Abdullah’s death to the new mon- tion, the crisis in Syria and Yemen, Fidan’s standing as an MP would Syria crisis. next week first visit since the Custodian arch, the Saudi representative to where a Shia militia seized power set him up to become the new for- He was also instrumental in of the Two Holy Mosques King the UN, Abdullah Al Muallami, on Friday. eign minister, a move that would controversial talks that secured TRIPOLI: Libya’s warring fac- Salman acceded to the throne was quoted as saying by the daily Iraq and the struggle against give a higher profile to Turkish the release in September of tions will resume on Tuesday following last month’s death of Asharq Al Awsat yesterday. “terror” are also likely to be dis- diplomacy. almost 50 Turkish diplomats, UN-sponsored talks inside the his half-brother Abdullah. He said King Salman and Ban cussed, Muallami said. AFP His resignation has been staff and their families who were oil producer to defuse a power accepted by Prime Minister kidnapped by Islamic State (IS) struggle between two govern- Ahmet Davutoglu and will take jihadists at the Turkish consulate ments, officials from both sides effect on Tuesday, Anatolia added. in Mosul in Iraq. said yesterday. Tunisia anniversary The move came after Fidan, They were reportedly released Libya has been in chaos since believed to be in his late 40s and in exchange for jihadist prison- a Nato-backed revolt ousted formerly and advisor to Erdogan, ers but the details have remained Muammar Gaddafi nearly four held several hours of closed door unclear due to a media blackout years ago with two rival govern- meetings with Erdogan and typical of Fidan’s behaviour. ments allied to armed groups Davutoglu in Ankara last week. A Turkish prosecutor sought to fighting for legitimacy in a con- Up until the election, Fidan will summon him in February 2012 for flict Western powers fear might work as an advisor to Davutoglu, holding secret talks with Kurdish lead to full-scale civil war. the Radikal online daily said. militants in Oslo, an episode that Libya’s internationally rec- Marc Pierini, visiting scholar started Erdogan’s long running ognised government under at the Carnegie Centre, said battle with US-based preacher Prime Minister Abdullah Al Fidan could boast links with the Fethullah Gulen. Thinni and its elected House of president, a powerful past as Under Turkish law, state offi- Representatives are based in the head of MIT and also sheer name cials wishing to stand in the elec- east of the country after a group recognition. tions must resign their posts by called Libya Dawn seized Tripoli “Hakan Fidan, if elected, will February 10. last summer, set up its own rank among the very top names The election is seen as a critical administration and reinstated the of the ruling party in the new leg- moment in Turkish modern polit- old parliament. islature and will be part of the ical history, with Erdogan seeking Last month, the UN managed closest circle of power,” he told a crushing majority for the ruling to bring some members of the fac- AFP. Justice and Development Party tions to talks in Geneva but the Davutoglu had in a television (AKP) that he co-founded. Tripoli-based parliament known interview last week lavished This would allow the AKP to as General National Congress praise on Fidan, describing him change the constitution to give (GNC) wanted the dialogue to as “brave and bold and not going Erdogan, who became president take place inside Libya. back once a step is taken.” in August after over a decade as “The UN-sponsored peace Seen only occasionally in public premier, sweeping new powers as talks will take place in Libya on and rarely making public com- head of state. Tuesday unless anything unfore- ments, Fidan has emerged as Under Fidan’s leadership, the seeable happens,” Emhemed one of the most powerful men in MIT has become one of the most Shoaib, deputy speaker of the Turkey under Erdogan. powerful institutions in the coun- House of Representatives, told People light candles to mark the second anniversary of the assassination of Tunisian opposition leader Chokri As head of the MIT, he has led try, although its work is unsur- Reuters. Belaid, at Avenue Habib Bourguiba in Tunis. negotiations with Kurdish mili- prisingly shrouded in mystery. REUTERS tants for an end to a decades-long AFP SUNDAY 8 FEBRUARY 2015 12 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com INTERNATIONAL Arming Ukraine would worsen conflict: Merkel Europe and US clash over how to confront Putin

MUNICH: Germany’s Angela Franco-German peace plan pre- is clearly a lie and a danger.” Merkel said yesterday that sented to Kiev and Moscow this McCain added: “The Ukrainians sending arms to help Ukraine week would succeed. But she are being slaughtered and we’re fight pro-Russian separatists flatly rejected the notion that sending them blankets and meals. would not solve the crisis there, sending weapons to Kiev, an idea Blankets don’t do well against drawing sharp rebukes from US being considered by US President Russian tanks.” politicians who accused Berlin Barack Obama, would help resolve Russia’s annexation of the of turning its back on an ally in the conflict. Crimean peninsula in March distress. “I understand the debate but last year and evidence that it is The heated exchanges at a I believe that more weapons will supporting separatist forces in security conference in Munich not lead to the progress Ukraine the east of the country, which pointed to cracks in the transat- needs. I really doubt that,” said the the Kremlin denies, have driven lantic consensus on how to con- conservative German leader, who Moscow’s relations with the West front Russian President Vladimir has led western efforts to try to to a post-Cold War low. Putin over a deepening conflict in resolve the crisis through negotia- The EU and United States eastern Ukraine that has killed tions and will travel to Washington have imposed a series of sanc- more than 5,000. on Sunday for talks with Obama. tions against Moscow that have Ukraine’s military said yester- US Vice President Joe Biden, contributed to a sharp downturn day that pro-Russian separatists speaking at the same confer- in the Russian economy. had stepped up shelling of govern- ence, tried to play down differ- Merkel and her allies in Europe ment forces and appeared to be ences with Europe, saying he and want to continue to punish Russia amassing troops for new offen- Obama agreed that no efforts by tightening the economic screws. sives on the key railway town of should be spared to resolve the Obama faces pressure from mem- Debaltseve and the coastal city of conflict peacefully. bers of Congress to do more. Mariupol. But he made clear that In an emotional plea for sup- The rebel offensive has trig- Washington stood ready to pro- port in Munich, Ukrainian gered a flurry of shuttle diplo- vide Ukraine with the means to President Petro Poroshenko listed macy, with Merkel and French defend itself, saying: “Too many the number of troops and civil- President Francois Hollande jet- times President Putin has prom- ians that had been killed since Ukrainian President Petro Poroschenko holds up Russian passports confiscated from separatists on Ukrainian ting to Moscow on Friday to try to ised peace and delivered tanks, the crisis started and held up red territory during the 51st Security Conference in Munich, Germany, yesterday. convince Putin to do a peace deal. troops and weapons.” passports of Russian soldiers he But European officials acknowl- US senators Lyndsey Graham said had been found fighting in should be supported “with all Europe and the United States of full-blown conflict. edge that the Russian leader may and John McCain, both Republican Ukraine. “We are an independ- means necessary to defend, not supporting a “coup d’etat” against The French leader, Merkel, have little incentive to negotiate hawks, were withering in their ent nation and we have a right to to attack, to defend its people and deposed Ukrainian leader Viktor Poroshenko and Putin are due to now, preferring to sit back and criticism of the German stance, defend our people,” he said, call- its territory.” Yanukovich, a Moscow ally, a year hold a call on Sunday, before the watch as separatists seize more which is supported by other big ing for political, economic and Russian Foreign Minister ago and turning a blind eye to chancellor travels to Washington. territory, undermining a ceasefire European countries like France. military support. Calling himself Sergei Lavrov, also in Munich, nationalists he said were intent “If we don’t manage to find not agreement clinched last September “At the end of the day, to a “president of peace”, he made said there were “good grounds for on ethnic cleansing in eastern just a compromise but a lasting in the Belarus capital Minsk. our European friends, this is clear that Kiev only wanted optimism” that the talks between Ukraine. peace agreement, we know per- The German leader conceded not working,” Graham said of defensive weaponry. Merkel, Putin and Hollande could Hollande, speaking to report- fectly well what the scenario will in Munich, after returning home Merkel’s diplomatic efforts. “You He received strong backing yield a deal. ers in the city of Tulle in central be. It has a name, it’s called war,” from Moscow in the dead of night, can go to Moscow until you turn from Lithuanian President Dalia But Lavrov also delivered a dia- France, cast the talks with Putin Hollande said. that it was uncertain whether a blue in the face. Stand up to what Grybauskaite, who said Ukraine tribe against the West. He accused as a last-ditch effort to avert REUTERS

Heavy snowfall in northern Spain Nigeria to postpone polls Former Irish president flays to fight Boko Haram Pope Francis ABUJA: Nigeria’s electoral Nations and European Union to commission will postpone next pay, may delay the mission. on smacking Saturday’s presidential and leg- Nigeria’s home-grown extremist islative elections for six weeks group has responded with attacks DUBLIN: Ireland’s former to give a new multinational on one town in Cameroon and two president Mary McAleese force time to secure north- in Niger this week. Officials said spoke out against Pope Francis eastern areas under the sway of more than 100 civilians were killed yesterday after he defended Boko Haram, an official close to and 500 wounded in Cameroon. the rights of parents to smack the commission said yesterday. Niger said about 100 insurgents their children. Her intervention Millions could be disenfran- and one civilian died in attacks came after the Catholic leader chised if the voting went ahead on Friday. Several security forces said good fathers knew how to while the Islamic extremists hold from both countries were killed. forgive but also to “correct with a large swath of the north-east International concern has firmness” during his weekly and commit mayhem that has increased along with the death general audience on Wednesday. driven 1.5 million people from toll; some 10,000 have been killed He described as “beautiful” and their homes. in the uprising in the past year dignified the response of one father Civil rights groups opposed to compared with 2,000 in the four who said he sometimes smacked Cars are buried under the snow in a street of Reinosa, in the northern province of Cantabria, Spain, yesterday. any postponement started a small previous years, according to the his children “but never in the face The northern part of Spain faces a spell of rough weather with some provinces on an orange-alert status for protest yesterday. Police prevented US Council on Foreign Relations. so as to not humiliate them”. heavy snowfalls. them from entering the electoral The United States has been In a letter to the Irish Times commission headquarters in Abuja, urging Nigeria to press ahead newspaper, McAleese, who left Nigeria’s capital. Armed police with the voting. The US secre- office in 2011, noted that the began deploying to block roads tary of state, John Kerry, visited Vatican was a signatory to the leading to the building. Nigeria two weeks ago and said UN Convention on the Rights of The Nigerian official, who is that “one of the best ways to fight the Child and that the committee ‘Pineapple Express’ douses US West Coast knowledgeable of the discussions, back against Boko Haram” was monitoring this wants all corpo- said the Independent National by holding credible and peaceful ral punishment of children to be SEATTLE: A new band of National Weather Service. The nearly 200 flights were canceled Electoral Commission would elections, on time. “It’s impera- banned. “Is the Holy See now Pacific storms was headed so-called “atmospheric river of out of the San Francisco area, announce the postponement later tive that these elections happen doing what it claimed not to be toward the US West Coast rain” had tapered off on Saturday, local officials said. Along the on Saturday. He spoke on condi- on time as scheduled,” Kerry said. doing a year ago, namely actively yesterday, bringing more rain with another well-defined wave Olympic Peninsula in Washington tion of anonymity because of the Officials in President Goodluck and internationally promoting the to California, while a different of precipitation and strong winds state, several homes were evacu- sensitivity of the issue. Jonathan’s administration have corporal punishment of children?” storm system threatened the beginning on Sunday, Burke said. ated when the Duckabush River A major offensive with war- been calling for a postponement. McAleese wrote. Northeast with more snow and The rainfall was a boon to flooded in Jefferson County, the planes and ground troops from Any delay is opposed by an oppo- “If it is, then Pope Francis has cold, forecasters said. California, suffering its worst sheriff’s office said. Chad and Nigeria already has sition coalition fielding former surely turned the clock back con- The West Coast storm system, drought on record, but would not Across the country, the third forced the insurgents from a dozen military dictator Muhammadu siderably. What faith are we to known as the “Pineapple Express” increase snow pack in the moun- winter storm in two weeks was towns and villages in the past 10 Buhari, though the opposition have now in the Holy See’s com- because it develops in moist air tains, Burke said. heading toward the Northeast, days. Even greater military strikes stands to take most votes in the mitment to the Convention on the moving across the Pacific Ocean, Honeydew, a town on promising light snow in New by more countries are planned. north-east. Supporters of both Rights of the Child?” Corporal has dropped up to 12 inches of California’s northern coast, has Jersey and New York City on African Union officials were sides are threatening violence punishment is banned in schools rain across Northern California, already received 11.4 inches of rain, Sunday into Monday and nearly ending a three-day meeting in if their candidate does not win. in Ireland but not in the home. Oregon and Washington state while Hoodsport, Washington, on a foot in parts of New England, Yaounde, Cameroon’s capital, to Some 800 people were killed in AFP since Thursday, forecasters said. the Olympic Peninsula, has seen including snow-socked Boston, finalise details of a 7,500-strong riots in the mainly Muslim north “The storm is coming in sev- 8.06 inches, the National Weather Burke said. Philadelphia, on the force from Nigeria and its neigh- after Buhari, a Muslim, lost 2011 Kenyan lawmaker eral waves, and one of the larg- Service said. southernmost edge of the storm, bours Chad, Cameroon, Benin and elections to Jonathan, a Christian est was yesterday,” said Patrick Thousands of people tempo- will likely see rain, forecasts show. Niger. Details of funding, with from the south. shot dead Burke, a meteorologist with the rarily lost power on Friday and REUTERS the Africans wanting the United THE GUARDIAN NAIROBI: A Kenyan lawmaker was shot dead in the capital early yesterday, in an incident likely to increase pressure on President Uhuru Kenyatta’s government over insecurity in the nation. Measles outbreak spurs new action in California Paul Wanjama, head of the cen- tral police station in Nairobi, said CALIFORNIA: Students at all 10 cam- to the re-emergence of a highly contagious several possible 2016 presidential hope- from 2012 to 2014 to 3,335 children. the parliamentarian for Kabete puses of the University of California will disease that had been declared eliminated fuls addressed the issue this week, joining State Health Department spokesman constituency, George Muchai, had be required to be screened for tubercu- as a US-borne virus in 2000, after decades a renewed debate over parents’ right to Kenny Vigil said waivers represent less been gunned down with his two losis and vaccinated for measles, mumps, of immunisation efforts. forgo inoculation of their children and fears than 1 percent of school-aged children bodyguards and a driver in the rubella and other diseases under a new One of New Mexico’s largest public about potential side effects. statewide, though the department has city shortly before 3am local time. health plan set to take effect in 2017, the school districts, Santa Fe, will start barring The Santa Fe district notified parents voiced concern over the trend. He said police were investigat- university said on Friday. unvaccinated students from class unless this week that any students who lack up- Just one measles case has been confirmed ing the shooting of Muchai, who Announcement of the policy change, they have a valid state exemption, the head to-date vaccinations or bona fide state in New Mexico this winter, an unvaccinated was also an official in Kenya’s cen- which goes beyond the hepatitis B shots of the school board said. waivers for medical or religious grounds baby who was hospitalized in December and tral organisation of trade unions. already required of all 233,000 UC students, The recent flare-up has spurred legisla- will be excluded from class starting on Feb. has since recovered, Vigil said. It was the A police source said a masked comes amid measles outbreaks that have tors in California, Oregon and Washington 17, board President Steven Carrillo said. state’s first case since 2012. gunman had shot Muchai when infected more than 100 people in California state to consider laws to make it harder for The district has not determined how The origin of the child’s infection is his car stopped on a main street and over a dozen more in 19 other US parents legally to opt out of vaccinating many of its 14,000 students are unvacci- unknown, he said, but the case was unre- for him to buy a newspaper. states and Mexico since December. school-aged children. Bills in several other nated or already exempted, he said. The lated to the California outbreak because its Kenyan opposition leader Raila Politicians and education and health offi- states, including New York, Mississippi and district action comes as New Mexico docu- onset in late November predates the first Odinga said the death showed the cials at the national, state and local levels West Virginia, would loosen restrictions. mented a steady rise in vaccine exemptions Disneyland infection. government was failing to uphold have found themselves suddenly reacting US congressional leaders and during the past two years, up 17 percent REUTERS the rule of law. REUTERS SUNDAY 8 FEBRUARY 2015 ASIA / PHILIPPINES www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 13

8 Abu Sayyaf Aquino looking for new police chief militants die President accepts resignation of PNP chief; public anger mounts over commandos’ killing in clash with

MANILA: President Aquino six-month suspension order from hand in choosing a replacement. of his own ... We know what kind There are at least five other and Interior and Local the Office of the Ombudsman over He said the new PNP chief of a person should lead the PNP. members of the PMA Class 81 in police in Jolo Government Secretary Manuel corruption allegations. Deputy should provide continuity and He should be a man...who exercises the PNP but they are also about Roxas II are expected to discuss Director General Leonardo certainly improve the morale of leadership, a man who is capable of to retire in the coming months. ZAMBOANGA: Eight mem- in the coming week the appoint- Espina is serving as PNP officer- the PNP. reforming, pursuing reforms in the Garbo earned the trust of Aquino bers of an Al Qaeda-linked ment of a permanent replace- in-charge but is retiring in July. “We are continuing to address PNP, a man who is respected within for his handling of the controver- group of Philippine militants ment for resigned Philippine The suspension order on all these concerns as well. For the ranks and all those,” he said. sial suspension of Cebu Gov. Gwen have been killed in clashes with National Police (PNP) chief Purisima — issued on December instance, again...the families “But those qualities, among Garcia during his term as regional security forces in the coun- Alan Purisima. 4 last year — ends in June. The of the SAF heroes who died in other qualities, will be taken into director of Central Visayas. try’s south, the military said In a televised address last resigned PNP chief is set to retire Mamasapano. They want justice consideration by the President The next in line are members of yesterday. Friday, the president accepted in November. and that’s part of the institutional and in discussion with the sec- PMA Class ’82 who are occupying Thirteen members of a coun- the resignation of Purisima in Officers and PNP employees have buildup or morale buildup of the retary of the interior and local sensitive positions in the PNP. ter-terrorism task force were also the face of growing public anger been complaining about having to PNP, and certainly we look for- government,” Lacierda said. They are Director Benjamin wounded in the fighting with the over the deaths of 44 Special deal with two police chiefs. The ward to the appointment of a new With Purisima out and Espina Magalong, head of the Criminal Abu Sayyaf group on the remote Action Force (SAF) commandos police force is also agonising over PNP chief,” Lacierda said. nearing retirement, directorial Investigation and Detection island of Jolo on Friday, said the during a clash with hundreds of allegations that it was Purisima who Lacierda said they have no staff chief Deputy Director General Group and head of the Board government unit’s spokesman guerrillas from the Moro Islamic directed the operation against the names yet of those being consid- Marcelo Garbo Jr emerges as a of Inquiry formed to investigate Ensign Chester Ramos. Liberation Front (MILF) and the two international terror suspects in ered for the top PNP post. possible contender, being the most the Mamasapano encounter; He said the eight Abu Sayyaf Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Mamasapano, Maguindanao even He said he would rather hold senior police officer in the PNP. Director Carmelo Valmoria, chief dead were followers of Radullan Fighters (BIFF) in Mamasapano, while under suspension. off giving general statements on Garbo, a member of PMA Class of the National Capital Regional Sahiron, a one-armed militant Maguindanao on January 25. Presidential spokesman Edwin the personality and characteris- 1981, would have enough time to Police Office; and Director who has a $1m bounty on his Purisima was alleged to have Lacierda yesterday said over radio tics an appointee should possess. initiate reforms as his retirement Ricardo Marquez, head of PNP head put up by the US govern- led the operation by “remote dzRB that Purisima decided to “I can give you motherhood is still considerably far ahead – on Directorate for Operations. ment, which considers the group control” even if he was serving a resign to give the president a free statements like he should be a man March 2, 2016. THE PHILIPPINE STAR a “foreign terrorist organisation”. Ramos said Sahiron’s group of about 100 gunmen had been skirmishing with the counter- terrorist task force around the Jolo town of Patikul over the past Firebombings kill nine week, during which six other sol- diers were earlier wounded. The Abu Sayyaf, set up with seed funds from Al Qaeda in the in Bangladesh early 1990s, has been blamed for many of the deadliest militant DHAKA: New firebomb when she threatened to lead a attacks in the Philippines, includ- attacks killed another nine peo- mass rally on January 5, the ing the 2004 firebombing of a ple in Bangladesh, police said first anniversary of a disputed ferry on Manila Bay that claimed yesterday, amid growing inter- polls. more than 100 lives. national calls for an end to the Zia then called a nationwide The group, mainly based in the spiralling political violence. blockade of transport to topple Muslim-populated areas of the At least three people burned the government of Prime Minister southern Philippines, has also to death when suspected anti- Sheikh Hasina and pave the way been involved in high-profile kid- government protesters petrol- for new polls under a neutral nappings of foreign tourists and bombed a truck in the southern government. Christian missionaries. town of Gournadi yesterday The protests have become Another key leader of the morning, local police chief Sazzad increasingly violent and nearly group of several hundred mili- Hossain said. 1,000 vehicles have been torched tants posted video footage of him- The death toll from a similar or vandalised. self and other gunmen last year attack late on Friday on a bus in The security forces have in turn pledging allegiance to Islamic the northern Gaibandha district arrested more than 10,000 opposi- State fighters in Syria and Iraq. rose to six after two more pas- tion supporters while more than US military advisers have been sengers died from their injuries a dozen protesters have been shot providing training and intelli- on Saturday, police added. dead, prompting allegations of a gence inputs on Jolo and nearby One anti-government protester shoot-to-kill strategy. areas since 2002 to Filipino troops was also shot dead in a shootout After a plea from the US fighting the Abu Sayyaf. with officers in the coastal town State Department for an end The latest violence comes of Swarupkathi, police said. to the “unconscionable” fire- after 44 police commandos were The latest deaths brought the bombings, Human Rights Watch killed by other Muslim guerrilla overall toll in the month-long issued a plea for a halt to the People carry a youth who suffered burn injuries after a petrol bomb attack on a bus in Gaibandha, some 285km groups in another area of the unrest to at least 76, mostly vic- “bloodletting”. from Dhaka, yesterday. southern Philippines last month tims of fire-bombings of buses and “All parties should cooper- while on a mission to catch two trucks. ate to stop the cycle of violent York-based watchdog’s Asia cannot justify killings, injuries, protests but Hasina has ruled top militants, Malaysian Zulkifli The violence began after the crimes and ensure those respon- director Brad Adams. “The vio- and wrongful arrests by the out any polls until the end of her bin Hir and Filipino Abdul Basit government confined opposition sible for all crimes are arrested lent crimes being committed by government.” tenure in early 2019. Usman. leader Khaleda Zia to her office and prosecuted,” said the New some members of the opposition Zia has vowed to continue AFP AFP

New Sri Lanka government TransAsia starts pilot retraining after deadly crash TAIPEI: TransAsia Airways by the CAA and third-party pro- still searching for another three another fatal crash in Taiwan’s Thomas Wang. “We heard ‘Mayday’ passes first cancelled dozens of flights yes- fessional units for an estimated who remain missing in the air- western Penghu islands in July. at 10:54:35.” Analysts have said the terday, the first day of a pilot period of four days,” the carrier line’s second deadly crash in seven Investigators are still try- pilots may have caused the crash retraining programme, as res- said in a statement. months. ing to establish what caused by turning off the wrong engine. parliament test cuers retrieved five more bodies “As a result, some of our domes- Five bodies were found down- Wednesday’s crash, but initial The plane crashed shortly after from the river in Taiwan where tic flights will be adjusted,” it said, stream of the crash site, including reports from the planes black take-off during a domestic flight COLOMBO: Sri Lanka’s new the plane crashed. explaining that 90 domestic flights one in flight attendant’s uniform, boxes found the right engine had to an outlying island. government cleared its first test Taiwan’s Civil Aeronautics will be cancelled by Monday. during a blanket search of the “flamed out” about two minutes Startling amateur footage in parliament yesterday, secur- Administration (CAA) ordered Pilots who fail the tests will river by hundreds of rescuers and after take-off. Warning signals showed it hitting the road as it ing a crushing majority for a all the airline’s staff who fly ATR be grounded immediately for an divers yesterday, Taipei city fire blared in the cockpit and the left banked steeply away from build- welfare budget unveiled last planes to take tests on operat- indefinite period of time pending department said. engine was then shut down man- ings and into the Keelung River, month. ing the aircraft after it emerged further qualification training, The airline said it has sched- ually by the crew for unknown leaving a trail of debris including Legislators voted 164-1 to the pilots may have inexplicably according to the CAA. uled four memorial services for reasons, Taiwan’s Aviation Safety a smashed taxi. Chief pilot Liao approve the January 29 budget shut off one of the engines before On Wednesday, a TransAsia the victims next week. Council said on Friday. Chien-tsung has been hailed as a that raised salaries of 1.6 million Flight GE235 went down last ATR 72-600 plane plunged into The latest accident comes “The pilot tried to restart the hero after reports emerged that public servants, slashed food and week. a river in Taipei with 53 passen- after aviation authorities said engines but to no avail. That his body was found still clutching fuel prices while slapping new “Starting today, all of gers and five crew members on TransAsia Airways had failed to means that during the flight’s final the joystick, after he apparently taxes on the most profitable pri- TransAsia’s 71 ATR pilots will board. Forty people were killed, meet around a third of the regula- moments, neither engine had any battled to avoid populated areas. vate companies. undergo tests to be carried out fifteen survived and rescuers are tory requirements imposed after thrust,” said the council’s director AFP Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said the near unanimous vote augured well for the country, which voted Mahinda Rajapakse out of office at January 8 elections after a decade of auto- Divers may have found cratic rule. “This is a first step towards a new political culture in this coun- try,” Wickremesinghe said add- AirAsia co-pilot’s body ing that the vote demonstrated they were working as a unity JAKARTA: Indonesian divers identifying the body, which is in government. have found a body believed to poor condition, Supriyadi said. Wickremesinghe’s United be the French co-pilot who was Indonesian investigators last National Party (UNP), the steering an AirAsia plane when month said French co-pilot Remi then biggest opposition party, it crashed in December with 162 Plesel was flying the plane before backed the election of President people onboard, an official said it crashed, rather than Captain Maithripala Sirisena who yesterday. Iriyanto, an experienced former defected from Rajapakse’s Sri Coordinator of the search and fighter pilot. Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) to rescue effort S B Supriyadi said Flight QZ8501 went down in emerge the common opposition the body was retrieved from the stormy weather on December 28 presidential candidate. front part of the fuselage during a in the Java sea during what was Although the UNP had search operation on Friday. supposed to be a short trip from only 41 seats in the 225 mem- “It is likely the body of the the Indonesian city of Surabaya ber parliament at the time, French co-pilot, wearing uni- to Singapore. Wickremesinghe has secured the form with three stripes on (the) Divers also found three bod- support of many SLFP legislators shoulder,” he said, adding that the ies inside the main body of the after Sirisena’s victory. body is still being held onboard plane on Friday and another Yesterday’s vote is the first the Pacitan warship before being three bodies near the fuselage demonstration that the new gov- taken to land. today, bringing a total number of ernment enjoys a majority in the A formal confirmation will be dead retrieved to 101, Supriyadi house. Workers load the tail of AirAsia flight QZ8501 onto a truck at Kumai sea port, in Central Kalimantan yesterday given after the Disaster Victims said. AFP before transporting it to Jakarta. Identification (DVI) team finish AFP SUNDAY 8 FEBRUARY 2015 14 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com PAKISTAN / AFGHANISTAN School attack: Parents seek probe details Judicial inquiry demanded

PESHAWAR: Hundreds of the government would do all it parents, students and activists could to help. yesterday protested outside the “I stand by you and the provin- Pakistani school where Taliban cial government will support you militants murdered 153 people and redress all your grievances,” over the “sluggish” police inves- Mehsud told parents. tigation into the massacre. Rights activist Sana Ejaz The group gathered at the said that civil society groups in Army Public School in the north- Peshawar were firmly behind western city of Peshawar to draw parents exercising their right attention to the slow investiga- to receive better information on tion. They say that since the police progress. December attack there have been In the wake of the attack, the no breakthroughs and they have government lifted a six-year mor- received little information on the atorium on executions for people inquiry’s progress. convicted of terrorism and 22 The school was the site of militants have been hanged since Pakistan’s deadliest ever terror then despite protests from the attack on December 16 last year, international community and in which 134 children were among human rights watchdogs. those killed by heavily-armed Pakistan also amended its con- militants. stitution to allow military courts “Sorry kids! No banner large to try terror suspects. Despite Relatives of the students, who were killed by Taliban militants during an attack at Army Public School, hold photos depicting the victims during a protest enough to cover the shame of the previously having specific anti- demanding that the culprits of the attack be brought to justice, in Peshawar, yesterday. state and government,” read one terror courts, cases dragged on banner carried by the protesters, for many years and many escaped which also had pictures of some of punishment due to legal loopholes the children killed in the attack. or lack of witnesses who would Afghan families flee persecution in Pakistan “Our children were martyred not appear out of fear of reper- and martyrs never die. They are cussions from militant groups. KABUL: Thousands of Afghan Danziger said. “When something the IOM and other officials said. most desperate there,” Danziger telling the government not to The military said yesterday families are fleeing Pakistan horrible happens, people start Most of the Afghan families set- said, adding that resources had waste their sacrifice and protect that it had received the first batch to escape harassment after a taking it out on foreigners.” tled in Pakistan decades earlier been diverted from the Iranian other children,” Raza Bangash, of 12 terrorism cases to be tried deadly Taliban attack on a school Taliban militants attacked a and have nowhere to go once they border. who lost his 14-year old son, said. in military courts. in Peshawar last December, school in Peshawar in December, return, Danziger said. Families lucky enough to qualify “We want a judicial inquiry “To begin with 12 cases have the head of the International killing more than 130 children “Their lives are in Pakistan,” for help receive medical care, food as we are not satisfied with the been assigned to military courts. Organization for Migration and prompting Pakistan to step he said, adding it was unclear and temporary shelter, but the ongoing investigations because The legal process kicks off,” (IOM) in Afghanistan said up operations against insurgent how long they would remain in IOM says it needs another $1.6m there seems to be no progress,” Xinhua news agency quoted army yesterday. hideouts along the border with Afghanistan. The flow of undoc- to cope with an additional 17,000 Bangash said, as women around spokesman Maj Gen Asim Bajwa More than 22,000 undocu- Afghanistan. umented returnees increased vulnerable returnees this year. him wept clutching portraits of as saying yesterday. The courts mented Afghans flocked across Cooperation between Afghan steadily in January, from around Most refugees are moving their children. will be established for two years the border at Torkham in and Pakistani security forces has 350 in the first week to 1,400 in to nearby provinces including Saeed Shah, another affected in four provinces, according to January, more than twice the also improved since the attack the final week of the month. Kunar, the IOM said, where fight- parent, said they were “being kept the new legislation. The govern- figure for the whole of 2014, said and has led to the arrest of sus- Danziger said it was difficult to ing between Afghan forces and in the dark about the investiga- ment of northwestern Khyber Richard Danziger, the IOM’s mis- pects in Afghanistan, where offi- predict when the numbers of ref- Taliban militants has recently tions,” and called on the authori- Pakhtunkhwa province has also sion chief in Afghanistan. Almost cials believe it was planned by the ugees would ease. The unexpected intensified. Others are heading ties to be more transparent in their decided to refer cases against the 1,500 others were deported in the Pakistani Taliban. arrival of thousands of people is for Kabul, where resources for dealings with victims’ families. Pakistani Taliban chief, Maulvi same month, double the number However, Afghans living in pressuring Afghanistan’s limited thousands of internally displaced Peshawar’s administrator Riaz Fazalullah, who has been charged of deportees in December. Pakistan are reporting incidents resources and only the most vul- people settled there are already Mehsud visited the protesting with the killings of many people. “It all started with the attack of harassment such as raids on nerable are receiving assistance. seriously strained. parents and assured them that AGENCIES on the school in Peshawar,” their homes and police coercion, “We are down to helping the REUTERS

Kerry meets Ghani YouTube to Pakistan no place for remain blocked ‘indefinitely’ women, says report ISLAMABAD: Even Nobel victim who pursued her own case ISLAMABAD: YouTube will Peace Prize winner Malala and Malala Yousalzai, the young- remain blocked in Pakistan Yousafzai and social activist est Nobel laureate, are being cen- ‘indefinitely’, an official said yes- Mukhtaran Mai are not being sured rather than celebrated in terday , as experts have failed honoured in Pakistan as women Pakistan, it said. to find a way to filter content still remained the most back- Pakistani women have made deemed offensive and blasphe- ward in the country, a leading inspiring advances in many fields mous in the majority country. daily said Saturday. such as Benazir Bhutto who The video-sharing website has Pakistani women still remain became the first woman prime been blocked in Pakistan since among the most backward in minister of a Muslim country. September 2012 over its hosting of the world despite almost seven The daily said that Pakistan has the “Innocence of Muslims” movie decades of independence, said been accommodative of regressive that sparked furious protests Pakistan Today. elements who exploit religion to around the world. The Supreme Stories of persecution, harass- instil their conservative view on Court ruled at the time that the ment, rape, marital oppression, the society. site should be banned until a way and honour killings have become Even the so called secular gov- was found to block all so-called so common that they hardly cause ernments of Bhutto and former blasphemous content. any uproar. president Pervez Musharraf never “(The) matter was reviewed A few victims who struggle moved beyond heavy rhetoric and several times but the situation and gain international praise cosmetic changes, it said. effectively remains the same,” like Mukhtaran Mai, a gang rape IANS US Secretary of State John Kerry with Afghan President Mohammad Ashraf Ghani (right) during a bilateral the minister for information tech- meeting at the 51st Munich Security Conference (MSC) in Munich, southern Germany, yesterday. nology and telecommunication Anusha Rehman told the Senate. “The government does not want to take any chance and wants to make sure that after the unblock- Performance of anti-crime ing YouTube, no offensive content Luxury products to be more expensive remains viewable in Pakistan,” a senior government official said. agency slumps to new low ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan development budget, which will food grinders, fruit mixers, fruit “So far no tool or solution has government is set to impose 5 be reduced by at least Rs75bn, or vegetable juice extractors, hair been found which can totally ISLAMABAD: The Federal an existing strength of 3,109, is to 10 percent additional regula- roughly 15 percent. dryers, microwave ovens, coffee block offensive content, that is Investigation Agency (FIA), facing a shortage of ammunition. tory duty on dozens of imported Preparations are under way or tea makers, toasters, wooden why YouTube remains blocked smarting from a 28 percent The top intelligence body, which luxury and essential items and to levy 5 percent to 10 percent cabinets, beds, electric table and and it will remain so indefinitely,” staff shortage, is running its has an estimated Rs220m as oper- will slash development spend- additional regulatory duty on cos- desk, etc. the official said. affairs with deputationists, most ational budget, is facing a short- ing by at least 15 percent as metics, imported food items like It will be the third such move Blasphemy is a contentious of whom have neither relevant fall of 133 vehicles for the mobility part of an agreement with the chocolates, beverages, mechani- in the last two months. Earlier, issue in Pakistan and the coun- qualifications nor experience to of its staff. This affects the moni- International Monetary Fund. cal and electrical appliances, said as against the standard sales tax try has seen violent riots sparked investigate high-profile cases. toring of 14 airports, eight land Some 283 items that are a senior official of the Federal rate of 17 percent, the govern- by content deemed offensive to “We are operating with only 22 routes and four seaports, an expected to be subject to the addi- Board of Revenue (FBR). ment enhanced it to 27 percent on Islam. Free speech campaign- revolvers, 35 pistols, 30 shotguns, internal document reads. tional levy are imported fruits, He said that besides the addi- petrol, light diesel oil, high-speed ers in Pakistan have long com- 60 rifles and 129 vehicles across Around 2,300 cases are pend- dairy products, marble, refrig- tional regulatory duty, other meas- diesel and kerosene in two phases plained of creeping censorship in the country,” a top FIA official ing with the immigration wing. erators, other electric appliances ures were also under consideration, aimed at recovering about Rs28bn the name of protecting religion told Express Tribune newspaper in There is a shortage of over 500 and wooden furniture, which the but a final decision will be taken by from the consumers. or preventing obscenity, and have a report published yesterday. The executive staff in the immigra- government insists are part of Finance Minister Ishaq Dar. In its second move, the govern- described the ban on YouTube as FIA has borrowed services of 276 tion wing where 2,798 posts were luxury products. Some of the other items that ment imposed 15 percent regula- a violation of civil rights. officers from various departments sanctioned, explained the official. The government has assured could be subject to the regula- tory duty on the import of steel In November 2011 the telecom- during the last five years as it was Some 2,700 cases are pending the IMF that it will apply a com- tory duty are imported vegetables, products, billets, bars and wire munications authority tried to facing a shortage of more than with the anti-corruption wing. bination of expenditure cuts and perfumes, cosmetics, toothpaste, rods, 5 percent regulatory duty ban nearly 1,700 “obscene” words 1,200 staffers, revealed the official. More than 803 economic crime additional revenue measures to shaving products, cooking ranges, on cold-rolled coils and galvanised from text messages, which included He was attending the meeting inquiries are pending with the remain within the budget deficit ceiling fan, pedestal fan, table fan, platted sheets, and Rs200 per set innocuous terms such as “lotion”, where authorities briefed Interior agency which only disposed of 14 target of 4.9 percent of GDP. The exhaust fan, freezers, water dis- duty on cellular phones. “athlete’s foot” and “idiot”. Minister Nisar Ali last week. cases in 2013. cut will be applicable only to the pensers, fully automatic machines, INTERNEWS AFP The investigative agency, with INTERNEWS SUNDAY 8 FEBRUARY 2015 INDIA www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 15 Exit polls predict AAP govt in Delhi Kejriwal thanks voters as Bedi puts up brave face

NEW DELHI: A year after to the day the votes will be the BJP 29. The Axis-APM poll its 49-day stint in power ended counted. credited a stunning 53 seats to the abruptly, Arvind Kejriwal’s Senior AAP leader Yogendra AAP and 17 to the BJP. AAP was set to return to power Yadav said his party was headed Today’s Chanakya also said in Delhi, exit polls said yes- for a landslide and could get more that 53 percent of voters felt that terday after record voting in than 50 seats. Kejriwal, an income tax officer- assembly elections whose out- There was no comment from turned-activist-turned-politician, come is bound to have national BJP president Amit Shah, who was best suited to be Delhi’s chief ramifications. along with Prime Minister minister. Bedi got only 36 percent Half-a-dozen exit polls said the Narendra Modi had picked Bedi, approval. AAP, born in 2012 on the strength India’s first woman Indian Police It also said that all social classes of an anti-corruption movement, Service officer and a former in Delhi — Dalits, Muslims, was likely to get between 31 Kejriwal colleague, to head the Banias, Brahmins, OBCs and and a staggering 54 seats in the BJP charge in Delhi, shocking the Punjabis — voted more for the 70-member assembly, relegating party’s established leadership in AAP. The Muslim vote for the the BJP to the second spot and the capital. AAP was as high as 71 percent. virtually wiping out the Congress, A record 67 percent of Delhi’s Although the Delhi election India’s oldest political party. 13.3 million electorate voted was a battle for the city state, it The Bharatiya Janata Party Saturday, with maximum polling became high profile after Prime could bag 17-35 seats. The recorded in low-income areas Minister Modi addressed rallies Congress, which ruled Delhi for all over the city where the AAP asking people to reject the AAP 15 years until December 2013, enjoyed maximum appeal. and its leader Kejriwal whom he would be routed, winning no seat Today’s Chanakya gave 48 seats called a Maoist. or at best four seats, the exit polls to the AAP and 22 to the BJP. Huge billboards all across the predicted. The BJP tally, if correct, would be capital as well as the BJP’s adver- A happy Kejriwal, who ran an less than the 28 the AAP had got tisement blitz urged voters to aggressive campaign over the in its maiden election 14 months support Modi. months drawing huge crowds, ago. It said the Congress would Former Jammu and Kashmir expressed gratitude to the people be crushed. chief minister Omar Abdullah Aam Aadmi Party chief and its chief ministerial candidate for Delhi, Arvind Kejriwal gestures to his supporters of Delhi for voting for the Aam A party will need at least 36 was the first among senior poli- after casting his vote outside a polling station in New Delhi yesterday. Aadmi Party in large numbers. seats to form the government in ticians to mock at Modi after “(You are) so amazing,” he Delhi. the exit polls. “If your slogan is Former Bihar chief minister When Kejriwal went to his Gandhi was mellowed when asked tweeted. “(You) rejected politics The ABP-Nielsen survey gave ‘Chalo chalen Modi ke saath’ (Let and Janata Dal-United leader polling centre, he was virtu- about her party’s prospects. “Jo of caste and religion. Hope final the AAP 39 and the BJP 28 seats. us go with Modi) as we heard ad Nitish Kumar also came out in ally mobbed by voters. Midway janta chahegi wahi hoga (What results (are) as per exit polls.” The Times Now-C-Voter survey nauseam on the radio, you can’t favour of the AAP. through the balloting that ended people want will happen)”, she Putting up a brave face, BJP’s said the AAP was poised to win claim the result isn’t about HIM,” While balloting was initially at 6 p.m., the AAP and the BJP said after casting her vote. chief ministerial candidate Kiran 31-39 seats and the BJP 27-35. Abdullah tweeted. slow Saturday in middle and claimed they were poised to win. The elections took place a year Bedi disputed the exit poll find- The India Today-Cicero put Earlier, West Bengal Chief upper middle class areas, thou- Although the Congress was also after Kejriwal resigned after ings and said she was confident the AAP tally at 35-43 seats and Minister Mamata Banerjee and sands began thronging polling in the race, it was squeezed out in being the chief minister for 49 her party would win. “Wait till of the BJP at 23-29. NDTV said also the Communist parties urged centres right from the time the the BJP-AAP battle. tumultuous days. February 10,” she said, referring the AAP could win 38 seats and people to vote for the AAP. exercise began at 8am. Congress president Sonia IANS

Azad re-elected JDU rift deepens: Manjhi defiant, Nitish to stake claim today to Rajya Sabha PATNA: Bihar’s ruling JDU attended by nearly 100 of the media. In a day of fast develop- However, at a cabinet meeting close to Nitish Kumar. According seemed to be on the verge of a party’s 115 legislators, will stake ments, Manjhi earlier yesterday he had called ahead of the sched- to JD-U leaders close to Manjhi, from Kashmir split yesterday, as Chief Minister claim to form the government met Nitish Kumar for a “patch uled legislature party meeting the chief minister was set to send Jitan Ram Manjhi sought the Sunday, the leader said. up” as the crisis deepened in the in the evening, Manjhi decided the cabinet recommendation for JAMMU: Congress’ Ghulam assembly be dissolved despite Meanwhile, a close aide of party. to recommend dissolution of the dissolution of the Bihar assembly Nabi Azad, the leader of oppo- opposition from a majority of his Manjhi, who last evening reached “Manjhi visited Nitish Kumar’s state assembly. to Governor Keshri Nath Tripathi. sition in the Rajya Sabha, was cabinet even as his predecessor Delhi to attend today’s meeting official residence to discuss some Minister Vijendra Prasad Yadav In the legislature party meet- yesterday re-elected to the Nitish Kumar was re-elected of the governing council of the issues for patch-up and to settle told the media that after minis- ing, Nitish Kumar was elected its upper house from Jammu and legislature party chief and was NITI Aayog (which has replaced issues,” said a party leader. ter Narendra Singh had proposed new leader. Kashmir along with two can- likely to stake claim to form the the Planning Commission), said Party President Sharad Yadav dissolution of the assembly in the “Nearly 100 of 115 JD-U legis- didates from the PDP and one government today. he may take support from the had invited both Manjhi and cabinet meeting, 21 of the 28 min- lators attended the meeting and from the BJP. Twenty ministers, considered Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to Nitish Kumar for a meeting to isters walked out. His ministe- elected Nitish Kumar as their new As per the results announced close to Nitish Kumar, resigned run the government. end the crisis in the party, the rial colleague Shyam Razak said: leader,” a JD-U leader said. After by the Election Commission, Saturday following Manjhi’s move, “We will take support of the leader said. “Only seven ministers including his election, Nitish Kumar said: Azad polled 30 votes. Though his said a Janata Dal-United leader. BJP to run the government if He also held closed-door meet- Chief Minister Manjhi supported “If there will be a need, we will party has only 12 members in Nitish Kumar, who was there is any such need,” minis- ings with his associates including the move in the cabinet and 21 parade legislators in the Governor the 87-member state assembly Saturday evening elected the leg- ter Narendra Singh, who is con- two ministers and some party leg- ministers rejected the decision.” House’s as numbers are with us.” which forms the electoral college islature party leader at a meeting sidered close to Manjhi, told the islators in the morning. Razak and Yadav are considered IANS for the Rajya Sabha elections, he was supported by the National Conference that has 15 members. Besides the NC, three others Protest in Srinagar including Yusuf Tarigami of the Communist Party of India-Marxist, Help make India a global Hakeem Muhammad Yaseen of People’s Democratic Front and Independent member Engineer leader, Modi tells envoys Rashid also supported Azad. The victorious Bharatiya Janata Party candidate Shamsher NEW DELHI: Prime Minister change in global attitudes towards Singh Manhas polled 57 votes, a Narendra Modi yesterday said the challenges of climate change. poll panel official said. the present global environ- He credited the Indian diplo- “Fayaz Ahmad Mir of the PDP ment represents a rare oppor- matic community for their suc- polled 56 votes and has been tunity, when the world was cess in the International Day of declared elected. Nazir Ahmad keen to embrace India, and Yoga being adopted by the UN Laway of the PDP also got elected India was moving forward with in record time, with a record polling 29 votes,” the official added. confidence. number of co-sponsors. The Peoples Democratic Party Addressing over 100 heads of He said yoga should be pro- has 28 members and one inde- Indian missions from across the jected as a possible solution to pendent from the Ladakh region world, Modi urged them to use common everyday problems of has also joined it. this unique opportunity to help people across the world, includ- The BJP has 25 members and India position itself in a leading ing stress management. has the support of three others role, rather than just a balancing He said the NITI Aayog has - two belonging to the People’s force, globally. recognised the Indian diaspora as Conference and an Independent Urging them to shed old mind- a great strength of the nation, and from Udhampur. sets, the prime minister said they heads of missions must come up should be quick to adapt to chang- with innovative ways to positively Vaiko seeks Kerala ing global situations. build upon this strength. Emphasising the role of “heads Modi called for preparing a support against of missions” in projecting India to compendium of best practices of P olicemen detain casual government employees during a protest in Srinagar yesterday. Police detained a the world, Modi described them the missions across the world, and neutrino project dozen protesting employees who were demanding regulating their services. as “shining vibrant representa- spreading them horizontally. tives” (tejasvi, jeevant anshpunj) He called upon the missions to CHENNAI: MDMK General of India’s glorious heritage. contribute towards developing a Secretary Vaiko yesterday met He urged them to work cease- culture for “Swachhta” — cleanli- Kerala Chief Minister Oommen lessly and with a clear mind, on ness — and to remain ahead of the Chandy and urged him to Bengal to develop theme townships India’s development priorities, curve on digital diplomacy. oppose the Rs150bn neutrino and to advance India’s interests He urged the missions to main- project in Tamil Nadu. abroad. tain digital libraries showcasing In a statement issued here by KOLKATA: West Bengal will already been sanctioned for the Bengal and focus on the hospital- Speaking of conflicts in the the best of Indian culture, and MDMK, Vaiko submitted a petition to soon coming up with townships outskirts in Rajarhat,” Sen added. ity sector. Sen said theme-based 21st century, the prime minister maintaining regular contact Chandy and urged him to oppose the in Rajarhat near Kolkata and The two theme townships to be township development is compul- said there were new “actors” and with prominent individuals from India-based Neutrino Observatory the districts of Bolpur, Asansol developed by private sector would sory as per the state policy. new “threats” to global peace and countries abroad, who visited or (INO) project as it would impact and Kalyani, based on themes attract investment worth Rs40bn. “Apart from the Rajarhat prosperity, and that India, which planned to visit India. Kerala’s Idukki district. like culture and industry, a sen- The first township in North 24 projects, investors have shown always stood for “vishva-band- He said relationships have Vaiko told Chandy that the ior state official said yesterday. Parganas district will be based on interest in developing 129 acres hutva” and peace — the brother- been important for all man- Tamil Nadu Pollution Control “After the roll-out of the plan the theme of innovation and the of land in Bolpur, 50 acres of land hood of the world — had a great kind throughout history, even as Board has not given its consent of township development, we have other will have the theme of tour- in Kalyani and 52 acres of land in responsibility in helping the world humanity has struggled to deal to the project that would endan- received 15 proposals from private ism. These will be developed on the Asansol into townships,” he said. counter these challenges to peace. with challenges. ger the Western Ghats and several players showing interest,” Principal public-private partnership model. The Bolpur project will have the On the challenge of climate External Affairs Minister dams and check dams in Kerala. Secretary, Urban Development While innovation township will “cultural theme” in line with the change, the prime minister said Sushma Swaraj, Minister of The INO consists of underground Debashis Sen told media persons focus on development of new ideas tourism initiative and Kalyani will protecting the environment was State for External Affairs V K laboratory with a rock cover and on the sidelines of an event organ- and technology to empower indus- be based on “analytics theme” again part of India’s cultural heritage, Singh, and Foreign Secretary S associated surface facilities at ised by Confederation of Indian trial development and facilitate in line with the state’s quest to build and therefore, India must take Jaishankar were present on the Pottipuram in Bodi West hills of Industry here. research, the tourism township Bengal into an educational centre. the lead in countering this chal- occasion. Theni district in Tamil Nadu. “Of the proposals, two have will focus on attracting tourists to IANS lenge, and also work towards a IANS AGENCIES SUNDAY 8 FEBRUARY 2015 16 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com MORNING BREAK

PRAYER TIME Pyromusical Competition

Fajr (Dawn) 4:56 Shorook (Sunrise) 6:14 Zuhr (Noon) 11:48 Asr (Afternoon) 2:59 Maghrib (Sunset) 5:24 Isha (Night) 6:54

WEATHER Weather Today Monday Tuesday Conditions: Partly cloudy Partly cloudy Clear Misty to foggy at places at first becomes moderate High: 25° High: 27° High: 26° temperature and Low: 16° Low: 22° Low: 20° partly cloudy with slight dust.

DOHA - SUN & SEA SUN TIDE SEA SUNRISE | SUNSET HIGH | LOW WIND 06:14 17:24 07:30 & 19:45 00:30 & 14:15 05-15/28 KT THE REGION TODAY TOMORROW

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MUSCAT 29/20 Clear 30/20 Clear Fireworks from team Japan illuminate the sky over Manila during the 6th Philippine International Pyromusical Competition outside the Mall of Asia in MAKKAH 36/23 Clear 35/23 Clear Pasay City, south of Manila, yesterday. Teams specialising in pyrotechnics from Japan, Italy, Brazil, Mexico, Netherlands, Portugal, Sweden, Canada, KUWAIT 30/13 Partly cloudy 28/14 Clear United Kingdom and China participate in the weekend event. BAHRAIN 27/18 Clear 30/19 Clear SANAA 26/08 Clear 26/09 Clear RIYADH 31/17 Clear 33/18 Partly cloudy DUBAI 27/17 Partly cloudy 31/19 Clear Algerian novelist Assia Djebar dies aged 78 BAGHDAD 24/09 Clear 22/11 Partly cloudy

TODAY TOMORROW THE WORLD ALGIERS: Novelist Assia Fatima Zohra Imalyene, was States where she taught graduate Sagan’s “Bonjour Tristesse”. HI/LO WEATHER HI/LO WEATHER Djebar, an ardent defender of elected in 2005 to the Academie studies at New York University. It was published under her real women’s rights in her native Francaise, France’s top literary She moved to France to study at name before she adopted Assia ATHENS 14/04 Clear 08/01 Rain Algeria, has died aged 78, state institution. the age of 18 and became the first Djebar as her pen name. WASHINGTON 16/08 Chance of rain 11/00 Chance of rain radio said yesterday. She wrote more than 15 nov- Algerian woman to be admitted to La Soif’s protagonist Nadia is a SYDNEY 32/21 Clear 27/21 Chance of rain The French-language author els in French as well as poetry the country’s top literary univer- westernised French-Algerian girl and filmmaker, who was seen as and short stories, receiving wide- sity, the Ecole Normale Superieure. who lives a carefree life, and tries LONDON 09/01 Partly cloudy 08/03 Fog a contender for the Nobel litera- spread acclaim for her treatment Djebar rose to fame after pub- to seduce her friend’s husband in PARIS 08/01 Mostly cloudy 08/04 Mostly cloudy ture prize in recent years, died on of Muslim women and their lishing her first book in 1957. order to make her own boyfriend ISTANBUL 07/03 Mostly cloudy 04/03 Rain Friday in a hospital in Paris. She struggle for emancipation. The novel, “La Soif”—literally jealous. MANILA 29/23 Partly cloudy 29/23 Partly cloudy will be buried in her native home Her books have been trans- “the thirst” but translated into The book was condemned in DHAKA 28/19 Partly cloudy 26/18 Partly cloudy of Cherchell, a Berber coastal town lated into 23 languages, including English as “The Mischief”—was Algeria for ignoring the politics DELHI 21/12 Partly cloudy 22/11 Clear west of Algiers, the radio said. English, and she divided her time compared favourably to its best- of the day. ISLAMABAD 19/06 Partly cloudy 21/06 Clear Djebar, whose real name was between Paris and the United selling contemporary, Francoise AFP Iranian director’s banned NBC to probe anchor’s Iraq war reporting

NEW YORK: NBC launched mistake” after veterans com- The apology by Williams did In an interview he spoke about film premieres in Berlin an internal probe on Friday into plained about the claim he made little to quell the uproar and cast seeing a deceased man float face top-rated Nightly News anchor during a broadcast last week, say- doubt about whether he would down from his hotel window BERLIN: Iranian dissident thieves should be hanged, while Brian Williams’ debunked claim ing it was not true. be able to continue in his role at in the French Quarter of New director Jafar Panahi’s latest the teacher in the back seat says that he was aboard a helicopter But the lie threatens his credi- NBC, a unit of Comcast Corp. Orleans. picture defying an official ban, the state ordering the death pen- that was downed by a rocket- bility as the anchor and managing “We’re working on what the But a former city health direc- Taxi, premiered to enthusias- alty has done little to foster the propelled grenade (RPG) dur- editor of NBC’s flagship evening best next steps are,” Turness tor, Dr. Brobson Lutz, told the tic applause on Friday at the social order. ing the US invasion of Iraq in news programme. added in the memo. New Orleans Advocate he ques- Berlin film festival, marking a “After China, we have the most 2003. “I was instead in a following NBC did not respond to tioned Williams’ account because new chapter of his career in the executions!” she protests, as the In an internal memo, NBC aircraft. We all landed after the requests for comment, and the historic district did not expe- shadows. discussion grows increasingly News President Deborah Turness ground fire incident and spent two Williams appeared on his evening rience as much flooding as other The 54-year-old’s work is cel- heated. told staffers that a team would harrowing nights in a sandstorm news show on Friday. parts of the city. ebrated in the world’s arthouses A third man gets in and when gather the facts about the inci- in the Iraq desert,” Williams said But the Emmy-winning anchor Lutz was also dubious about but outlawed in Iran where the feuding pair finally get out dent in which Williams, 55, falsely in his apology. was ridiculed on social media comments Williams made in the regime considers his gritty, of the taxi, he says he recognises said he was in a US Army heli- He blamed it on repeatedly and in the press for his “lame another interview when he said socially critical productions to be the director Panahi in the driver’s copter that was hit and forced watching a video of himself look- apology.” he suffered from dysentery after subversive. seat. down by an RPG. ing at the impact damage and “the “Now Williams is under fire,” mistakenly drinking flood water He was detained for a docu- Thus begins a film within a “This has been a difficult few fog of memory over 12 years” that read a banner headline in the while covering Katrina. mentary he tried to make on the film in which the man, a seller days for all of us at NBC News,” he said made him misremember. New York Post, which listed other “I saw a lot of people with cuts unrest following Iran’s disputed of pirated film DVDs, jokes with she said. “As you would expect, we The probe by the network’s interviews and news segments in and bruises and such, but I don’t 2009 presidential election and Panahi about the acting skills of have a team dedicated to gath- investigative unit is being headed which he spoke about his helicop- recall a single, solitary case of officially banned from making the first two people in the cab. ering the facts to help us make by Richard Esposito, who was for- ter being forced down. gastroenteritis during Katrina more films for 20 years for “act- Panahi continues to drive and sense of all that has transpired.” merly an editor at the Daily News Williams is also facing scru- or the whole month afterwards,” ing against national security and is a genial master of ceremonies, Williams apologised on TV newspaper of New York, accord- tiny about his remarks about said Lutz. propaganda against the regime”. treating his sometimes hysterical on Wednesday for “making a ing to media reports. covering Hurricane Katrina. REUTERS Taxi is the third picture he’s made fares with unfailing politeness and flouting the sentence, and while he good humour. won’t be able to walk Berlin’s red The tone shifts again when he carpet as he is barred from travel- picks up from school his preco- Der letze Sommer der Reichen promotion ling abroad, he issued a wrenching cious young niece, a budding statement about his drive to keep filmmaker who has been taught Chinese man working despite the risks. the strict rules governing movie “I’m a filmmaker. I can’t do distribution. invents ‘green anything else but make films. As she pulls out a small cam- Cinema is my expression and the era and turns it on the director, firecracker’ to meaning of my life,” he said. she explains what she has learned He said “cinema as an art” from her teacher about movie- was the “main preoccupation” of making: all women must wear the fight smog his life. “That is the reason why Islamic headscarf, there must be I have to continue making films no physical contact between men BEIJING: Chinese revellers under any circumstances to pay and women, political and eco- may have the hard choice of my respect and feel alive.” nomic debate must be avoided and deciding between protecting In Taxi, Panahi himself offers most of all: no “sordid realism”. the environment or protecting his impressions of contemporary Panahi humours her but when tradition as they prepare fire- Tehran from behind the wheel of he recognises a prominent human works displays for the upcom- a yellow cab, ducking the authori- rights lawyer by the side of the ing Spring Festival, which falls ties’ prying eyes by filming with a road, he stops to pick her up. on February 19 this year. But mounted dashboard camera. The woman charms Panahi’s a man from central China’s Each person he offers a lift has niece and when the director con- Henan Province has devised a a story to tell. fides that he just spoke to a man non-polluting firecracker that His first fares, two strangers who he believes interrogated him could allow them to do both. going the same way, launch into a while he was forced to wear a Wang Xinming, an oil company political debate about Shariah law blindfold, she comforts him. employee, created the firecracker and capital punishment. “Such simplistic tactics,” she said, to help people protect the envi- The man argues that car parts noting that the regime occasionally ronment and enjoy the festive used the technique to give dissidents atmosphere at the same time. the maddening sense that they Approved for patent in July, could never escape surveillance, the firecracker uses a closed cav- with some preferring actual impris- ity which can be injected with air. onment to paranoid “freedom”. Users then just need to press a The film builds to a chilling cli- button and the closed cavity will max in which the extent and lim- immediately open a small hole, its of the director’s liberties are Actors Susanna Hohlrieder, Winfried Glatzeder, Nicole Gerdon, Amira Casar and director Peter Kern during through which compressed air revealed, drawing a strongly posi- a photocall to promote the movie Der letze Sommer der Reichen (‘The Last Summer of the Rich’) at the 65th will discharge and produce an tive reaction at a press preview. Berlinale International Film Festival, in Berlin yesterday. explosive sound. AFP IANS Sunday 8 February 2015 19 Rabial II 1436 Volume 19 Number 6335 Price: QR2

www.thepeninsulaqatar.com [email protected] | [email protected] Editorial: 44557741 | Advertising: 44557837 / 44557780 Qatar’s money supply Greece to present debt plan soon ATHENS: Greece said yester- day it had no short-term cash problem and that it will hand its European Union partners a rebounds in 4th quarter comprehensive plan this week for managing the transition to a new debt deal. Credit facilities to real estate sector grow 7.95pc The EU has warned time is running out to avoid a financing BY SATISH KANADY (NFA) of Qatar banks declined to Foreign banks’ credit facilities crisis in Greece. QR125bn from the previous quar- declined to QR19bn for the previ- The new left-wing government DOHA: After a contraction ter’s QR138bn. Conversely, net ous quarter’s QR20bn. in Athens has rejected the aus- in the third quarter of 2014, domestic assets (NDA) rose to The lending to public sector terity that was forced upon the Qatar’s total money supply (M1) QR378bn from QR351bn recorded witnessed a drop of 2.5 percent country by an EU/International rebounded by QR124bn, or 4.20 in the third quarter. in the fourth quarter of the year. Monetary Fund bailout and percent, in the final quarter of The Commercial Banks’ com- Public sector lending declined to instead says it wants a “bridge the last year. bined domestic credit jumped to QR233bn from the third quarter’s agreement” until it has negotiated The country’s average move- QR586bn during the fourth quar- QR239bn. a new deal. ment in money supply (M2) con- ter, compared to QR572bn in the Lending to contractors and real “We will present a compre- tinued to grow by 3.06 percent to previous quarter, and 7 percent estate sectors saw huge quarter- hensive proposal on Wednesday,” QR504bn from the previous quar- up from the first quarter of 2014. on-quarter jump in the fourth Finance Minister Yanis Varoufakis Greece’s Finance Minister Yanis Varoufakis speaks on his phone upon ter. M2 grew by 4.34 percent in Commercial Banks’ private sec- quarter. Credit facilities to the said, referring to a meeting of arriving for a government meeting in Athens yesterday. the fourth quarter of 2014 against tor credit rose by 6 percent to ‘real estate’ sector rose by 7.95 eurozone finance ministers in first quarter of 2014. QR352bn from the previous quar- percent to QR95bn. Lending to Brussels on that day. something Greece has said it does February and should repay a M1 measures the most liquid ter and 17 percent up from the contractors rose QR30bn, up 7.14 Varoufakis was attending a cab- not want and will not accept. It is €1.5bn loan to the IMF in March. components of the money sup- first quarter’s QR301bn. percent. inet meeting called to prepare the due a €7.2bn trance from the EU/ That has raised concerns the ply, as it contains cash and assets In the fourth quarter, QCB’s Lending to real estate sector government’s overall policy pro- IMF bailout, which it says it does country may suffer a cash crunch, that can quickly be converted to Reserve Money (MO) and rose to QR94bn in the fourth gramme, which Prime Minister not want because of the austerity but this was dismissed yesterday currency. Foreign Net Assets (FNA) were quarter, compared to QR88bn in Alexis Tsipras will present to par- strings attached. by the Greek official in charge of M2 includes savings deposits, marginally down from the previ- the previous quarter. The banks’ liament today. Instead, Athens wants authority the government’s accounts. money market mutual funds and ous quarter. credit to contractors rose to On Friday, Jeroen Dijsselbloem, from the eurozone to issue more “During the time span of the other time deposits, which are Collective credit facilities of QR27bn from QR26bn. who chairs the Eurogroup of short-term debt to tide it over negotiations there is no problem less liquid and not as suitable banks increased by 2.67 percent Foreign banks’ lending to real eurozone finance ministers, said until a new deal is agreed, and to (of liquidity). This does not mean as exchange medium but can be to QR653bn in the four quar- estate sector jumped to QR892m that Greece had to apply for an receive already-agreed profits that that there will be a problem after- quickly converted into cash or ter from the previous quarter’s from QR391m on quarter-on- extension of its reform-for-loans the European Central Bank and wards,” Deputy Finance Minister checking deposits. QR636bn. Total credit facilities of quarter basis. However, their plan by February 16 to ensure other central banks have gained Dimitris Mardas said on Mega Qatar Central Bank’s (QCB) Qatari banks rose by 3 percent to combined credit facilities slipped the eurozone keeps backing it from holding Greek bonds. TV. The minister said he did not quarterly (Q4, 14) statistics bul- QR634bn from last September’s to QR19bn from QR20bn during financially. This is essentially an Greece faces interest rate expect the negotiations over a new letin indicates net foreign assets QR615bn. the period. THE PENINSULA extension of the current bailout, payments of around €2bn over deal to last that long. REUTERS SUNDAY 8 FEBRUARY 2015 18 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com BUSINESS

QR1.26bn Capital flows to remain volatile: QNB financing for Al Emerging Markets differentiation is expected to be a key theme in 2015 Rayyan Road

DOHA: Capital flows to recovered, though they slowed Much of the loss of confidence in respect to EM capital outflows are project finalised Emerging Markets (EMs) are down again in the second half of the latter group has been driven clear. Should the Fed tighten at likely to remain volatile in the year ($86bn compared with by lower global commodity prices, a faster than expected pace, this DOHA: Al Khalij Commercial 2015. Significant adjustments $131bn in the first half of the primarily crude oil. could have a further destabilising Bank and The Commercial to global financial conditions in year, according to the Institute of In December 2014 there was impact on capital flows to EMs. Bank of Qatar have successfully 2014 included a large drop in International Finance). a net outflow of both debt and Oil prices will be a key differ- concluded a combined financ- commodity prices, the end of The end of QE in the US led equity capital from EMs of $11.1bn entiating factor in 2015. Lower ing arrangement of QR1.26bn. Quantitative Easing (QE) in the to another bout of EM capital (the largest outflow since the oil prices are likely to be support- The contract financing facili- US and a stronger US dollar. flight, weakening exchange rates announcement of QE tapering in ive of oil importing EMs but less ties is for the project awarded “Looking ahead, these develop- and prompting some countries to May 2013). Global risk aversion beneficial for oil exporting EMs. In to joint venture between Dogus ments, particularly the drop in increase interest rates. In turn, rose amidst an intensification of broad terms, oil importers should Insaat ve Ticaret AS (Dogus crude oil prices, will lead to signif- this weakened the growth outlook the Russian crisis, the further see their current account balances Construction) and Onur icant divergence in EM perform- for EMs and led to greater global slide in oil prices, which raised improve and inflation lowered, Taahhut Tasimacilik ve Ticaret ance, adding to risks in specific risk aversion. Finally, a number of concern about a global Great leaving more room for monetary a balance of payments crisis. Ltd for the construction and countries such as Nigeria, Russia EMs have high levels of US dol- Deflation, and the re-emergence stimulus. Meanwhile, oil export- “We expect 2015 to be another development of the Al Rayyan and Venezuela. Therefore, we lar denominated debt, which is of the risk of Greek sovereign debt ers are faced with deteriorating volatile year for capital flows Road project. project EM flows to remain vola- becoming more burdensome with default. external balances combined with into selected EM markets, with al khaliji and Commercial tile in 2015, particularly as a pos- the stronger US dollar. Looking ahead, EM differentia- fiscal pressures as oil revenues a number of risks facing the glo- Bank are financing the QR3.43bn sible increase in US policy rates by Throughout 2014, there was tion is expected to be a key theme subside. On balance, the biggest bal economy. The strong US dol- project on a mutual basis in the Federal Reserve may attract significant EM differentiation in 2015. A critical issue will be winners will be those EMs with lar coupled with the expected US which both banks are the Joint flows to the US while EM growth between those markets that have how vulnerable EMs that heav- high levels of oil imports and high monetary policy normalisation this Mandate Lead Arrangers, while continues to slow and commodity been able to take the necessary ily depend on capital inflows and inflation, such as India, Indonesia, year is likely to put further pres- Commercial Bank will be acting prices remain low”, QNB’s weekly measures to reduce their cur- have high external debt levels will South Africa and Turkey. sure on capital flows to vulnerable as the facility and security agent. research note said yesterday. rent account deficits and stabilise be affected by the continued rise In contrast, large oil exporters EMs and increase deflationary “We are delighted to have Towards the end of 2013 and their currencies (notably India in the US dollar as well as the with deteriorating fiscal balances pressures. As a result, additional Commercial Bank as our part- in early 2014, capital flows to and Indonesia) and those that are expected increase in short-term and weak macro policy frame- exchange rate weakness, higher ner in financing Al Rayyan Road EMs subsided as the implemen- still struggling to contain the loss interest rates in the US. Although works are in a less favourable interest rates, weak growth and project which is part of Qatar’s tation of QE tapering in the US of confidence in their economies there is much uncertainty around position, primarily Nigeria, Russia financial market instability can be road building program designed led to tighter global liquidity. In (Brazil, Nigeria, Russia, South the timeline for Fed interest rate and Venezuela, which, in the worst expected in selected EMs.” to improve the overall road infra- mid-2014, EM capital inflows Africa, Turkey and Ukraine). tightening, the downside risks with case scenario, may be pushed into THE PENINSULA structure in the country”, said. Fahad Al Khalifa, al khaliji’s Group Chief Executive Officer. “al khaliji continues to focus in playing a key role in the country’s development and progression.” Silatech leads Qatar research on entrepreneurship monitor Commercial Bank CEO, Abdulla Saleh Al Raisi, said: “We are pleased to partner with al DOHA: High levels of entrepre- finds that 16.4 percent of adults into long-term business success. Singer, GEM’s lead author from participating economies, includ- khaliji in financing this joint deal neurial optimism, ambition and in Qatar are engaged in “total Further analysis is necessary to JJ Strossmayer University, Osijek, ing other Arab nations. of QR1.26bn. Commercial Bank innovation are vital to advanc- early-stage entrepreneurial activ- determine what stumbling blocks Croatia. Silatech has supported the has been a strong advocate of ing economies, according to ity” (TEA), meaning they are in are limiting business growth and The report’s special topic, GEM study in other Arab coun- contract financing to fund Qatar’s The Global Entrepreneurship the process of starting a venture survival in Qatar. Youth and Entrepreneurship in tries including Libya, Tunisia, and huge infrastructure investments Monitor (GEM) 2014 Global or running a business for fewer African economies showed the Sub-Saharan Africa, also found Egypt. as part of supporting robust Report — an annual survey than 3.5 years. This too is the highest ability to perceive and that Africa’s boom in youth entre- In 2014, more than 200,000 Qatari economy due to a combi- of entrepreneurial activities, highest rate amongst developed pursue entrepreneurial opportu- preneurship is expanding globally. individuals were surveyed and nation of strong market demand intentions, and attitudes across economies. nities with little fear of failure. GEM’s full special topic report 3,936 national experts on entre- and achieving Qatar 2030 vision. 73 countries. Data from Qatar However, only 3.5 percent of In contrast, European Union will be available this April. preneurship participated in the This is a testament to Commercial was included for the very first adults in Qatar actually own and nations are less optimistic, see Silatech, a leading regional GEM study across 73 economies - Bank’s strategy, financial strength time this year. manage an established business fewer opportunities and are more social initiative, collaborated collectively representing 72.4 per- and prudent management.” Qatar immediately stands out (in operation for more than 3.5 uncertain about their skills in with Qatar University’s Social cent of the world’s population and The project includes the con- as the developed country with years). acting entrepreneurially. & Economic Survey Research 90 percent of its Gross Domestic struction and upgrading of Al the highest level of entrepre- This is far below any regional “Ambitious entrepreneur- Institute (SESRI) to produce Product (GDP). The report ana- Rayyan Road that stretches neurial intentions, as 50.4 percent average rate of established busi- ship has a powerful impact on Qatar’s first-ever GEM data lyzes entrepreneurs from all from the West of the Olympic of adults say they plan to start ness ownership, suggesting that economic development through set. With this new information, global regions of the world and Roundabout to the West of the a new business within the next high entrepreneurial inten- job creation and its incentive researchers can directly com- a broad range of economic devel- New Al Rayyan Roundabout, as three years. tions and early-stage activ- to innovate and build interna- pare the entrepreneurial land- opment levels. well as the associated side and The global GEM report also ity do not necessarily translate tional marketplaces,” said Slavica scape in Qatar to the 72 other THE PENINSULA service roads. THE PENINSULA

Woqod holds workshop on bitumen Facebook buys 21-building

DOHA: Qatar Fuel (Woqod) campus in Silicon Valley recently organised a one-day training workshop on high per- SAN FRANCISCO: Facebook Inc bought a 21-building cam- formance bitumen for companies pus in Menlo Park, California, as the social-network company to achieve sustainable roads. expands in its headquarters city. Members of local road con- Prologis Inc was the seller of the 56-acre industrial park at tracting companies and the Public Willow Road between Highway 101 and the Dumbarton Bridge, Works Authority Ashghal along the San Francisco-based real estate investment trust said in a with senior members of Woqod’s statement. Terms weren’t disclosed. management team attended the Prologis, the largest industrial REIT, has owned and managed workshop. Subjects included an the Menlo Science & Technology Park since 1998. Property values overview of bitumen properties in Silicon Valley and nearby San Francisco are climbing as technol- and its relationship to pavement ogy companies in the region grow. performance, conventional and “Land constraints and increased urbanisation pressures in mar- advanced tests that are used to kets such as Silicon Valley support the monetisation of select in-fill measure bitumen properties, qual- assets,” Michael Curless, chief investment officer at Prologis, said in ity control and best practices in the statement. The company will continue to manage the property, storing and handling bitumen. according to the statement. “Woqod is working hard to For Facebook, the purchase “is an investment in our future and ensure that the new roads in Qatar the future of Menlo Park,” Genevieve Grdina, a company spokes- meet the latest technology in pave- woman, said in an e-mailed statement. ment materials and application so “Being a good neighbour is extremely important to us, and we providing long lasting road surfaces look forward to continuing our dialogue with city and community with minimum need for mainte- leaders on local priorities in the months and years to come.” nance,” said Ibrahim Al Kuwari, Participants at the workshop. BLOOMBERG CEO of Woqod. THE PENINSULA

EO Global chief hails QBIC work

DOHA: The Global Chairman other incubators that combine a entrepreneurs in the country are of the world’s most influen- strong training programme with benefitting greatly from gener- tial network of entrepreneurs, world class facilities and numerous ous government support. “Qatar Entrepreneurs Organisation’s financing support options. QBIC Development Bank CEO and QBIC (EO) Gilberto Crombe, vis- has a very clear understanding of Chairman Abdulaziz bin Nasser Al ited Qatar Business Incubation what entrepreneurs need when Khalifa has built a strong support Center (QBIC) and hailed the they are starting out, and is already system for entrepreneurs that we facilities and programme as supporting an interesting mix of appreciate and value. EO members ‘world class and a fantastic incubated companies that look set are benefiting from these services, investment in the next genera- to add something new to the local and we hope that several of our tion of Qatari business leaders’. market. I am very impressed by member companies are able to be Crombe, a high profile busi- how Qatar is investing in its future among the next QR100m compa- nessman hailing from Monterrey, business leaders,” he said. nies that QDB and QBIC are work- Mexico, is the elected leader of Crombe was given the tour by ing hard to create”, he said. EO’s 10,000 members globally and senior QBIC managers, led by CEO EO Qatar Chapter Vice made the comments as part of a Aysha Al Mudahka, and discussed President, Abdulsalam Abu-Issa world tour that has taken in over a best practices and potential col- said: “Ee believe that the EO model dozen countries in North America, laboration between the Qatar EO of member to member learning Europe, the Middle East and Asia. chapter and QBIC. The next EO and support can be of value to He is the founder of various com- learning event will be hosted at start ups and SMEs that face a panies that sell building materials, QBIC. David vs Goliath battle each day architectural design, and business Accompanying Crombe was against major international and strategy consultancy. EO Qatar chapter President established companies.” “It is hard to think of many Patrick Forbes, who added that THE PENINSULA Officials at the meeting. SUNDAY 8 FEBRUARY 2015 BUSINESS www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 19 Biggest US oil field hit hardest by idled rigs Permian retrenching amid worst price collapse in 6 years Oil firms NEW YORK: America’s legacy basin-by-basin counts in February Thursday, the highest level since Permian Basin, the biggest of 2011. April 2009. all oil fields in the US, was hit “The drop this week was The Organisation of Petroleum debt spiral hardest by drillers past week absolutely substantial,” James Exporting Countries, which retrenching amid the worst Williams, president of energy accounts for about 40 percent of price collapse in six years. consulting company WTRG the world’s oil supplies, has mean- added to The Permian, stretching across Economics, said by phone from while resisted calls to cut output parts of Texas and New Mexico, London, Arkansas, on Friday. “I’m after agreeing in November to lost 37 rigs drilling for oil to 413, actually surprised it’s dropping maintain production targets. price rout Baker Hughes Inc said on its this fast. A lot of companies are On Thursday, Saudi Arabia, the website. The US-wide count slid strapped for cash, their balance group’s biggest producer, deep- 83 to 1,140, marking the ninth sheets and income statements do ened its discount for March oil LONDON: A fourfold increase straight week of declines and not look good and they’re bailing sales to Asia, a sign that the king- in energy companies’ debts since bringing the total to the lowest out of new projects as fast as they dom is fighting for market share. 2003 may have deepened last since December 2, 2011. can.” US oil production has mean- year’s oil-price rout as firms The unprecedented retreat Swiss oilfield services company while remained at the highest delayed curbing output and in US oil rigs over the past four Weatherford International Plc seasonal level since at last 1983 sold futures contracts to hedge months shows how deeply the big- became the latest energy com- and climbed to a record 9.21 mil- against the slump, the Bank for gest collapse in global oil prices pany to announce job cuts, say- lion barrels a day in the week International Settlements said. since 2008 is wounding the coun- ing on Thursday that it’ll let go of ended January 23, US Energy Energy companies’ outstanding try’s oil industry, erasing more 8,000 workers in the first half of Information Administration data debts rose to more than $800bn this than 30,000 jobs and shrinking this year as it faces “an unusually show. Drilling techniques such as year from less than $200bn in 2003, estimated exploration and pro- severe market contraction and horizontal drilling and hydraulic the Basel-based institution said in a duction spending by more than concurrently, a once-in-a-lifetime fracturing are increasing the yield report yesterday. Sinking oil prices $116bn. industry change.” from new wells and propping up weakened the value of assets used “The Permian was expected “Weatherford will be efficient, total output. as collateral by producers and com- to be a little more resilient than will be lean and organisationally “You might see growth slow, pelled them to sell more of their the rest because companies were flat,” Bernard Duroc-Danner, the but annual production will con- output on futures markets, it said. just starting to ramp up drilling company’s chief executive officer, tinue to rise,” Dukes said. Brent crude oil, a global bench- there again,” RT Dukes, an oil and said in a call with analysts on Rigs targeting natural gas in mark, fell 60 percent between gas analyst at Wood Mackenzie Thursday. “This is what we need the US fell by five this week to June and January, as members Ltd, said by phone from Houston. to do, and this is what we will 314, Baker Hughes said. of the Organisation of Petroleum “What this shows is that, in real- execute.” Inventories of the heating fuel Exporting Countries refused to ity, no oil is immune to $50 prices, West Texas Intermediate for declined 115 billion cubic feet in cut their own oil production in not even the Permian, not even March delivery rose $1.21 on the week ended January 30 to response to the highest US out- the best of the best.” Friday to settle at $51.69 a bar- 2.428 trillion, EIA data show. put in three decades. The price The total US oil count has rel on the New York Mercantile Supplies were 24 percent above has since rebounded more than fallen by a record 435 rigs in nine Exchange, up 6.9 percent this year-earlier inventories and 20 percent amid speculation that weeks, Baker Hughes data show. week and down 47 percent from 1.2 percent below the five-year traders closed bearish bets and US The decline in the Permian a year earlier. average. Containers sit idle at the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, California. drillers idled the most oil rigs in was larger than the retreats in The CBOE Crude Oil Volatility Natural gas for March delivery The loading and unloading of cargo freighters have been suspended at all a week ever. any other play. It was also the Index, which measures price slipped 2.1 cents to $2.579 per mil- 29 US West Coast ports last weekend because of chronic slowdowns on “Changes in production and field’s steepest decline since fluctuations using US Oil Fund lion British thermal units on the the docks that shippers and terminal operators have blamed on the union. consumption seem to fall short of Baker Hughes began reporting options, ended at 63.14 on Nymex. BLOOMBERG a fully satisfactory explanation of the abrupt collapse in oil prices,” said BIS, which is owned by cen- tral banks. “The greater debt burden of the oil sector may have US oil strike expands to BP plants with talks on hold influenced the recent dynamics of the oil market” and contributed to SAN FRANCISCO: US oil strike by US oil workers since waits for data that it requested California; and Anacortes, oil prices since 2008. US refin- the slide, it said. workers at two BP Plc plants in 1980, when a work stoppage from Shell, the USW said in a Washington, to Marathon ers have been cashing in on the Tumbling oil prices have the Midwest are joining the big- lasted three months. A full strike text message distributed to mem- Petroleum Corp.’s Catlettsburg biggest-ever domestic oil boom, increased borrowing costs among gest strike at refineries across of USW members, employed at bers late Thursday. complex in Kentucky, to BP’s driven largely by volumes being energy companies, with spreads on the nation since 1980 as negoti- more than 200 US refineries, fuel Ray Fisher, a spokesman for refineries in the Midwest. pulled out of shale formations, high-yield bonds issued by energy ations on a new labour contract terminals, pipelines and chemical The Hague, Netherlands-based In Texas, Shell’s Deer Park which cut oil prices by about half firms soaring to 800 basis points were suspended until this week. plants, would threaten to disrupt Shell, said by e-mail that talks complex, Marathon’s Galveston in the second half of 2014. as of January, from 330 points in Workers at BP’s Whiting refin- 64 percent of US fuel output. had “recessed.” Bay plant and LyondellBasell Refiners in the Standard & June, according to the BIS. This ery in Indiana and the Toledo “BP is disappointed that USW The USW seeks better health- Industries NV’s Houston facility Poor’s 500 have more than dou- encouraged energy companies to plant in Ohio that it co-owns leadership decided to call a strike care benefits and measures to were affected, the union said. bled in value since the beginning both lock in forward prices, add- with Husky Energy Inc notified at both the Whiting Refinery and prevent fatigue and keep union United Steelworkers members of 2012, when the steelworkers ing to the selling pressure, and to management that they would BP-Husky Toledo Refinery,” Dean, workers rather than contract do everything from operating last negotiated an agreement. keep production levels elevated to be joining the strike at 11:59 pm based in Warrenville, Illinois, said employees on the job, USW inter- units to performing maintenance Marathon Petroleum Corp and sustain revenues, prolonging an yesterday, Scott Dean a spokes- by e- mail. “We are committed to national president Leo Gerard to testing and analysing samples Tesoro Corp went on that year to oversupply, the BIS said. man for BP, said. The United ensuring a safe and orderly tran- said in a phone interview from in labs at US refineries. take their place among the 10 best The expansion in borrowing by Steelworkers, which represents sition as USW employees choose Pittsburgh on February 2. The The White House is monitoring performers in the S&P 500 Index. energy firms outpaced total debt 30,000 US oil workers, has sus- to strike and trained replacement union began the strike after the negotiations between USW The national agreement, issuance since 2003, which has tri- pended negotiations with Royal workers take their place.” negotiations with Shell fell apart and Shell and urges the two sides which addresses wages, benefits pled in the period to about $6 tril- Dutch Shell Plc, bargaining on USW negotiators on Thursday and workers’ contracts expired on “to resolve their differences using and health and safety, serves lion, according to the report. behalf of employers, until next rejected a sixth contract offer February 1. the time-tested process of collec- as the pattern that companies The level of borrowing in dol- week. from Shell, representing com- The refineries called on to tive bargaining,” Frank Benenati, use to negotiate local contracts. lars by energy companies outside The nine US plants on strike panies including Exxon Mobil strike can produce 2.36 million a White House spokesman, said Individual USW units may still the US may also push prices lower, and the two refineries headed for Corp and Chevron Corp, saying barrels of fuel a day, data com- in an e-mailed statement late decide to strike if the terms as a strengthening dollar makes it a walkout together total about 13 the latest proposal showed “mini- piled by Bloomberg show. They Thursday. The USW and Shell they’re offered locally don’t mir- harder for firms based in emerging percent of the country’s refining mal movement.” Bargaining will span the US, from Tesoro Corp.’s began negotiations on January ror those in the national agree- nations to pay off their debt, the capacity. It’s the first national resume next week as the union plants in Martinez and Carson, 21 amid the biggest collapse in ment. BLOOMBERG BIS said. BLOOMBERG

Gulf Air resumes QNB gets fund manager award Qafac to unveil Carbon Baghdad DOHA: QNB received a signifi- cant accolade during the pres- Dioxide Recovery Plant operations tigious Mena Fund Manager Performance Awards Ceremony DOHA: Gulf Air resumed its held recently in Dubai, UAE. DOHA: Qatar Fuel Additives conscious company,” Nasser flights to and from Baghdad QNB Al-Watani Fund was Company Ltd (Qafac) will offi- Jeham Al Kuwari added. International Airport from yes- awarded Qatar Equity Fund of cially announce the launch of The Carbon Dioxide Recovery terday following a temporary the Year, reflecting the excellence one of their greatest innova- Plant will recover 500 tonnes of suspension from January 26 of QNB’s asset management serv- tions to date, the state-of-the- Carbon Dioxide emissions a day due to safety and security con- ices across its domestic and inter- art Carbon Dioxide Recovery from its methanol reformer stack cerns in the vicinity of Baghdad national network of operations. Plant, the company said in a and reinject it into the existing International Airport and in QNB Group, the leading fund statement yesterday. methanol process. light of the airline’s commit- manager in the country and one Built to improve the environ- Along with enhancing the pro- ment to the safety and security of the leading asset managers in mental footprint of the plant, duction capacity, this process will of its passengers and crew, the the region, currently manages the facility will also help increase be the equivalent to absorbing the airlines said in a statement. several discretionary investment methanol production, it said. CO2 taken in by 4,200,000 trees The airline conducted com- accounts, financial portfolios and “By 2050, the global population in 10 years time. prehensive safety and security open ended funds, across various is expected to exceed 9 billion. In honour of the inauguration, assessments over the past week asset classes and geographies on As a result, we will face an even Qafac will host an event tomor- alongside in depth consultations behalf of its clients. The bank has bigger increase to environmen- row in Katara Village. It will take with airport and security officials a specialised research team that tally damaging pollutants in the place at 7:30 am and will include in the Iraqi capital in addition to actively tracks relevant econo- atmosphere,” said Nasser Jeham key members of the energy sector. ongoing coordination with the air- mies and asset classes. Al Kuwari, CEO of Qafac. Established in 1991, Qafac con- line’s representation in Baghdad as The highly experienced asset “In an effort to address these tinues to uphold its mission to well as the Bahrain Civil Aviation management team has a proven concerns today, we are doing be an international producer of Authority, it said yesterday. track record and have secured everything possible to imple- methanol, its high-value deriva- A number of International many prestigious awards includ- ment technology that will allow tives and butane sub-products, carriers have also resumed their ing the 2014 Global Investor us to provide durable and envi- in a safe and environmentally Baghdad operations, along- magazine — “Best Regional Asset ronmentally sustainable solutions. friendly manner. Along with side Gulf Air. In addition to its Manager“ along with Global Tomorrow, with the support of working on innovative ways to Officials at the award function. three weekly flights to and from Investor magazine — ‘Best Asset members of the energy sector reduce greenhouse gas emissions, Baghdad International Airport, Manager in Qatar’ for the year specifically, H E, Dr Mohammed Qafac regularly participates in Gulf Air operates daily flights 2013, 2012 and 2010 and the 2011 (Mena FM) is a monthly publi- source for in-depth analysis of bin Saleh Al Sada, the Minister of World Environment Day celebra- to Najaf which have not been EMEA Finance — ‘Middle East cation focused exclusively on the Mena Fund Management trends. Energy and Industry of the State tions, community lectures, envi- impacted throughout this period. Banking Achievement Award’. rapidly developing Middle East It’s Annual MENA Fund Manager of Qatar, we are proud to launch ronmental awareness campaigns Gulf Air, the national carrier QNB offers its customers man- and North African Fund Manager Performance Awards Ceremony is our Carbon Dioxide Recovery and Qatar’s annual HSE week. of the Kingdom of Bahrain, is a agement of investment accounts markets. one of the highlights of the finan- Plant,” he said. The company aims to optimise major international carrier serv- services which assists clients in Aimed at Fund Managers, cial calendar and attracts high “This is a big step forward, that the country’s vast hydrocarbon ing 43 cities in 24 countries span- structuring a customised portfo- Investors and Service Providers profile industry representatives we hope demonstrates Qafac’s resources through producing and ning three continents. lio relating to local and regional throughout the region and from a diverse range of countries. strong desire to play a front exporting Methanol and MTBE. THE PENINSULA markets. Mena Fund Manager beyond, Mena FM is the premier THE PENINSULA line role as an environmentally THE PENINSULA SUNDAY 8 FEBRUARY 2015 20 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com BUSINESS Mexico sees Bank of Italy boosts growth estimates Pacific trade ECB measures to spur economic activities; BoI expects govt support to dispose of bad loans pact in first ROME: The Bank of Italy recession on record, is set to will grow 0.6 percent this year, to run until a lasting change is That’s curtailing their ability to raised its economic-growth benefit from unprecedented ECB supported by exports and “mild achieved, with the trend of infla- lend as the country struggles to forecasts for the country after stimulus that’ll create more than improvement” in domestic tion returning close to 2 percent,” emerge from recession. half of 2015 the European Central Bank €1 trillion ($1.1 trillion) through demand. he said. The government led by Prime committed to asset purchases quantitative easing. Italian GDP International Monetary Meanwhile, Visco also said that Minister Matteo Renzi is con- MEXICO CITY: Mexico expects to spur a recovery and inflation may advance more than 1.5 per- Fund Executive Director Carlo Italy’s government should help sidering creating a so-called bad negotiations toward a 12-nation across the 19-nation region. cent in 2016, compared with a Cottarelli said in a Milan inter- support the country’s banks dis- bank to accelerate disposals of Asia-Pacific trade pact to be Italy’s gross domestic product previous forecast of 1.2 percent view the IMF will probably raise pose of bad loans in an effort to problematic assets. By splitting finalised during the first half of will expand more than 0.5 percent expansion, Visco said. its 2015 growth forecast for the generate economic growth. off some bad debt, that may help this year, Foreign Minister Jose this year, governor Ignazio Visco, “Italy is among the countries euro region because of the QE “Banks must liquidate non- boost capital as the ECB raises Antonio Meade said. who sits on the ECB’s Governing that are struggling hardest to programme and the decline of performing loans to raise funds to the bar for the lenders it deems Mexico had previously said Council, said yesterday in a make a start on the road to recov- the euro and oil prices. The IMF’s finance the real economy,” Visco riskiest. a deal on the Trans-Pacific speech at the Assiom Forex con- ery,” Visco said. The effect of ECB previous estimate is expansion of said. “Appropriate tax relief or Government measures “could Partnership (TPP) could be con- ference in Milan. That compares asset purchases on GDP “could 1.2 percent. state guarantees on assets backed be used not to remedy excessive cluded in mid-March, though with growth of 0.4 percent growth exceed 1 percentage point in 2015- Visco said the Bank of Italy’s by bad debts would smooth the risk taking by single banks, but negotiators are still going over projected in a January 16 report 16, other things being equal,” he purchases of Italian government way for the creation of a private to respond to the deterioration in several issues including wran- by the Italian central bank. said. securities in the ECB programme market in non-performing loans.” loan quality caused by the severity gling between the United States The nation’s economy, strug- The European Commission will be about €130bn. The bond- Bad loans of Italian banks are at and length of the recession,” Visco and Japan over agriculture. gling to emerge from its longest estimated that Italy’s economy buying programme “will continue a record high of €181bn ($205bn). said. BLOOMBERG A deal would still need to be approved by the US Senate, where President Barack Obama is likely to face resistance from some of his China’s economy cooling down fellow Democrats. Ford to roll out “We feel there are windows of JLR to recall 104,000 opportunity for the treaty to reach its final stage during the first half six new models of the year,” Meade said in an interview before a visit to London cars on braking safety in Russia in 2015 ahead of state visit by President Enrique Pena Nieto next month. NEW YORK: Jaguar Land “Mexico is ... ready and will- Rover (JLR) North America FRANKFURT: US automaker ing for an early conclusion, but is will recall as many as 104,000 Porsche to recall Ford will roll out six new mod- not in a position to determine the cars after the US National els in Russia this year, Chief timeline,” he added. Highway Traffic Safety cars in China Executive Mark Fields was Late last month, US Trade Administration published three quoted as saying, despite the Representative Michael Froman notices that highlighted issues BEIJING: Germany’s country’s sagging economy and told lawmakers the pact could be that could lead to faulty brak- Porsche will recall 14,571 rising tensions over the conflict wrapped up within months. ing and lighting. cars in China due to defec- in Ukraine. Froman said sticking points The largest portion of vehicles tive camshaft adjusters, the Russia’s currency and economic included a lack of consensus on called back is the 74,648 Range national quality watchdog woes were cited in January by how long to protect the exclu- Rover models built from April 15, said. Recalled cars include Ford as major reasons the com- sivity of biologic drugs and gaps 2005 to September 4, 2012. The several imported Panamera pany lowered expectations for its on other intellectual property company will replace front brake models made from April European business in 2015. Other protections, environmental pro- hoses, which could rupture and 2009 to September 2011 and carmakers have incurred losses tection rules, investment and slow braking speed, increasing two imported Cayenne mod- and closed production plants in state-owned enterprises. The TPP the risk of a crash, according to els made from March 2010 to Russia for the same reason. would link up a dozen Asia-Pacific the notice filed today. The recall is September 2011, the General “Between end-2014 and end- economies by eliminating trade expected to begin March 13. Administration of Quality 2015 we will bring six new models barriers and harmonising regula- Another 24,679 cars will be Supervision, Inspection and to market,” Fields was quoted as tions in a pact covering two-fifths recalled due to similar braking Quarantine said in a state- saying in German weekly maga- of the world economy and a third concerns: Vehicles built from ment on its website. zine WirtschaftsWoche. “There are of all global trade. August 16, 2012 to January 8, The cars are safety hazards no bad times for me to introduce During the state visit to the 2014, and sport models made as the bolt on the camshaft a great new model, even if the United Kingdom, Meade said the from May 7, 2013 to January 8, adjuster may loosen or break, economic conditions are difficult.” Mexican delegation expected to 2014. As many as 4,787 Jaguar XK it said, adding that Porsche Fields declined to specify any hold talks with a host of com- models built from March 4, 2011 will replace the defective com- company target for reducing its panies, including oil majors as to March 20, 2014 need updated ponents for free. REUTERS losses in Europe, the magazine Mexico prepares to open up its software for their parking lamps. said. “We don’t have a fixed tar- oil fields to private and foreign Jaguar Land Rover said it won’t get. We’ll cut back the losses this investment. charge owners for the fixes, and is take it to a dealership affiliated year and want to become profit- UK-based oil companies BP and it will mail notification letters with the manufacturer. able again as quickly as possible,” BG Group have both expressed before March 13. Jaguar Land Rover’s move fol- he said. In China, Ford aims to interest in Mexico’s first-ever In the US, once a manufacturer lows a second recall on January double its production capacity exploration and production bid or the NHTSA determines a vehi- 31 of 2.1 million vehicles by Fiat by the end of the year compared An employee tests newly-made light bulbs along a production line of round set for later this year. cle is defective, the automaker Chrysler Automobiles NV, Honda to 2013. By the end of 2015, Ford a factory in China’s Jiaxing, Zhejiang province. Weighed down by a However, Meade added that Mexico will usually agree to voluntarily Motor Co and Toyota Motor Corp will be able to produce 1.4 million cooling property market, industrial overcapacity and slowing invest- has no plans to make concessions to issue a recall and to fix the defect because of air bags that could go cars and 500,000 trucks annually ment, China’s economy grew at its slowest pace in 24 years in 2014 lure big oil because of a sharp drop for free. All the owner has to do off while driving. BLOOMBERG in China, he said. REUTERS and is expected to cool further to around 7 percent this year, even in crude prices. REUTERS with additional stimulus. Avianca orders Brazil returning to fiscal balance: Rousseff India to inject $1.13bn 100 A320neo BRASILIA: Brazil’s govern- Gerais state. “We need to pro- prices and boost borrowing costs. ment gradually will improve mote fiscal equilibrium so we She said at the rally that the fis- its fiscal accounts as part of a can return to economic growth cal tightening comes as the gov- to bolster bank capital worth $10.6bn strategy to contain inflation as soon as possible and ensure ernment can no longer afford without sacrificing jobs and continued generation of jobs and to absorb the impact of shocks MUMBAI: State Bank of India PARIS: Colombian airline welfare programmes, President income.” such as dry weather at home and and Bank of Baroda are among Avianca has signed a memo- Dilma Rousseff said. After billions of dollars in slower growth abroad. nine state-owned Indian lend- Axis Bank to randum of understanding on “We’re making a fiscal adjust- subsidised credit and tax breaks Latin America’s largest econ- ers that will receive Rs69.9bn purchasing 100 fuel-efficient ment to solidify our achieve- failed to stimulate growth dur- omy last year posted its biggest ($1.13bn) in capital as the gov- raise $2.42bn medium-haul A320neo planes ments, and not just for the sake ing her first four years in office, annual budget deficit on record ernment bolsters their risk from Airbus, the European of it,” she said on Friday night at Rousseff has started to cap gov- and the fastest inflation since buffers amid rising bad loans. MUMBAI: India’s Axis aircraft manufacturer said a rally in Belo Horizonte, Minas ernment spending, raise fuel 2011. BLOOMBERG SBI, the nation’s biggest lender Bank is to seek sharehold- yesterday. by assets, will get Rs29.7bn, ers’ approval to raise up to The order is worth $10.6bn at while Bank of Baroda will take Rs150bn ($2.42bn) by issuing list prices, but airlines are usu- Rs12.6bn, the finance ministry long-term bonds or non-con- ally able to negotiate considerable Sports Illustrated promotion at NYSE said in an e-mail statement. The vertible debentures to select discounts when ordering many government has adopted new investors, it said in a filing to planes. criteria to reward more efficient exchanges. REUTERS The preliminary order marks banks with extra capital, the the latest deal the Columbian ministry said. The infusion is airline has negotiated with the from the budget for the financial of a crisis,” he said. “We are closer Toulouse-based plane manu- year to March 31. to the end of the expansion in facturer since teaming up with The move is part of Prime bad loans rather than the begin- Airbus as part of Avianca’s fleet Minister Narendra Modi’s goal ning,” Rajan said, adding that renewal strategy. to help banks boost credit and he couldn’t say if sour debt had “After a thorough techni- meet tighter capital-reserve peaked yet. cal evaluation, we selected the requirements as slower economic A revival in growth and policy A320neo family for its excellent growth and the highest interest initiatives by the government will fuel efficiency, reliability and rates among major Asian econo- bolster the ability of borrowers to comfort,” said Avianca’s chief mies erode borrowers’ ability to repay loans, he said. executive Fabio Villegas Ramirez. repay loans, causing soured debt Annual loan growth at state- “These qualities are essential to to rise. The government invested controlled lenders fell to 8 further our growth and fleet mod- Rs140bn in state-run lenders last percent as of September, two ernisation strategy and improve year and set a target of Rs112bn percentage points less than the our passenger experience,” he said for the current one. country’s banking system, the in a statement. Stressed assets at government data show. In 2012, Avianca ordered 51 banks rose to almost 13 percent Bad loan provisions at Bank A320 family aircraft, including 33 of lending as of September 30, the of Baroda and ICICI Bank Ltd, A320neo planes. To date the air- highest level since 2001, central the largest private lender, have line has ordered nearly 200 Airbus bank data show. The ratio stood surged, according to their most aircraft, with nearly 130 of those at 4.4 percent for privately owned recent quarterly earnings. Bad- currently in operation. banks. The numbers don’t mean loan provisions at ICICI rose 41 The A320 is a medium-haul, the nation’s banking system is percent, while Bank of Baroda set single-aisle plane that usually close to a crisis, Reserve Bank of aside Rs12.6bn for soured credit, seat 150 passengers in a two-class India Governor Raghuram Rajan versus Rs7.6bn a year earlier. cabin configurations, or 180 peo- Sports Illustrated swimsuit model Sara Sampaio (third left) and other models with NYSE President Thomas said in an interview to Bloomberg The government typically ple in a more compact layouts for Farley (third right) visiting the floor of the New York Stock Exchange to promote the new Sports Illustrated TV India on Wednesday in injects money into the banks it low-cost and charter flights. Swimsuit issue in New York. Mumbai. controls by buying their shares. AFP “I don’t think there’s any risk BLOOMBERG SUNDAY 8 FEBRUARY 2015 BUSINESS VIEWS www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 21

For investors, a new game Putin’s next challenge: plan after US jobs report

BY RODRIGO CAMPOS

BLOWOUT jobs report has changed the calculus for inves- Propping up banks tors for what the Federal Reserve might do in coming A months, resetting expectations for how markets might behave if the US economy continues to strengthen even as global BY JASON CORCORAN predict more rescues this year after what amounted to a run. 30 fall into trouble in this win- growth lags. as losses balloon. Alfa Bank esti- Three major state-owned banks, dow, the government will save Strong job market growth, along with solid wage gains, has put HE news broke in a mates the red ink could reach VTB Group, Gazprombank and them,” analyst David Nangle talk of deflation and collapsing oil prices on the back burner and terse announcement two trillion roubles ($30bn), or Russian Agricultural Bank, wrote. “It would be very painful shifted focus to the Fed’s plans to raise rates, perhaps as early as on the web: another a quarter of banks’ equity. applied for government fund- for such a bank to go under, as June. Russian bank was in “It’s a kind of cancer and we ing to replenish their depleted it could spark a crisis of confi- “The market has not priced in an early Fed,” said Richard Gilhooly, trouble. know the symptoms are caused capital. dence in the wider banking sys- an interest rate strategist at TD Securities in New York. TThe January 26 statement by Ukraine, sanctions, sinking The pain isn’t letting up. Last tem, leading the population to Nonfarm payrolls beat forecasts with an increase of 257,000 from SB Bank, a midsize Russian oil prices and the economic slow- month, Russia’s Agency for withdraw deposits and interbank last month, government data showed on Friday, while revisions lender, underscored the pressures down” said Oleg Kouzmin, the Deposit Insurance approved a lending rates to spike.” brought the three-month gain above a million jobs for the first building inside the nation’s finan- chief economist at Renaissance list of 27 banks that would be eli- Sberbank on Friday reported time since 1997. cial system. SB said it was freez- Capital in Moscow and an gible for state rescues. As a mat- an 88 percent plunge in profit “With this kind of a number, the Fed can go in the first half of ing cash withdrawals, initially for adviser to the central bank from ter of policy, the agency doesn’t for January after the country’s the year. One more report like this and the Fed will be going ear- just three days. On Friday, the 2009 to 2013. “What we don’t yet identify such banks to avoid biggest lender almost doubled lier,” said Gilhooly. ban was extended for a second know is if it’s a treatable form.” panicking depositors. Sberbank, provisions for bad loans. That The effect was most noticeable on Friday in intermediate-dated time, through February 9. Russia is no stranger to crises. Russia’s biggest bank, has said it eroded its core Tier 1 capital, a bonds like five-year notes which sold off on expectations of a more Staggered by the collapse in oil In 1998, it defaulted on $40bn of will tighten restrictions on with- measure of financial strength, by aggressive-than-expected Fed. Interest-rate sensitive sectors in and plunge in the ruble, Russia domestic debt and devalued the drawals by debit card starting almost a full percentage point to the stock market, including REITs and utilities, could also be hit. is now confronting a potential ruble after oil prices dropped in March. 10.6 percent. Despite recent indications Fed policymakers were still looking banking crisis. below $10 a barrel. The state With so much at stake, the The central bank is trying to raise rates by the summer, markets had been volatile as softer So far, the damage has been spent more than four trillion government is also leaning on to ease the pressure on banks, data points including December consumer spending and factory mostly limited to smaller banks rubles to bail out lenders dur- private investors to provide but some new policies may only orders numbers made traders shift their expectations to late 2015 like SB, but across the industry ing the global credit squeeze that capital to banks. Two mid- mask the risks. Over the past or early 2016. more clients are taking out cash began in 2008. So far, President size banks, UralSib Bank and six weeks, the central bank has The reaction to Friday’s data across markets, however, suggests and struggling to repay their Vladimir Putin’s government has Credit Bank of Moscow, said last relaxed accounting rules and a more clear view of interest rates rising. loans. US and European sanc- committed one trillion roubles month they had boosted capital said it would use credit ratings Futures contracts tied to the Fed’s main policy rate now show tions are choking off financing to prop up the banks this time through loans from their main of lenders pre-dating Russia’s traders see a 63 percent chance that the first Fed rate hike will abroad, while high interest rates around, and can spend more to shareholders. incursion into Crimea for the come in September 2015, and a 46 percent probability of a July rate are throttling growth at home. avoid defaults. Russian banks are in “capital- purposes of regulation — a deci- hike. Before the jobs report, traders were betting the Fed would Russian authorities are The banks are coming off a bad preservation mode” this year, sion that effectively means banks wait until October to raise rates. already helping lenders with year and heading into a worse with no profits and no growth will be judged as if the economy Credit Suisse analysts said shortly after the payrolls data that accounting fixes and providing one. National Bank Trust, the for many, according to a report and industry were in better they expect intermediate-dated debt like five-year Treasury note funds to some of the biggest nation’s 28th largest by assets, emailed by Renaissance Capital. shape than they really are. yields to increase on expected rate hikes. state-owned banks. Analysts was bailed out in December “If top banks from Russia’s top WP-BLOOMBERG However, they believe longer-dated bonds will continue to be sup- ported by a shortage of supply and a desire for yield from overseas investors. At a yield of 1.92 percent, the US 10-year Treasury note boasts a higher yield than the debt of most developed economies, even struggling nations like Spain and Italy. With that scenario in mind, Credit Suisse recommends trades that will benefit from the Treasury yield curve flattening. The desire for yield may keep the US dollar rally intact; the dollar index rose more than one percent on Friday, moving closer to a 15-year high hit two weeks ago. The jobs report also roiled eurodollar futures, a key market where hedge funds and other investors make bets on the direction of short-term rates. Coming into the jobs report, data from the US Commodity Futures Trading Commission showed leveraged traders held a long position in three-month eurodollars of more than 1.03 million contracts, the longest such position since May 2013, according to the CFTC. Those contracts, particularly those maturing in September and December, sold off sharply on Friday, with December contract volume exceeding 923,000 as more traders now see rates rising. Historically, the beginning of a Fed tightening cycle is positive for stocks as it coincides with a stronger economy. But the gains will likely not come before equities see some pain. If the current jobs scenario remains in place, stocks could sell off in the second quarter in a “panicky correction” as the Fed begins to focus its debate on a rate hike and the language in its statement shifts, said Brian Reynolds, chief market strategist at Rosenblatt Securities in New York. “In the next few months you will see more volatility as the Fed changes language,” he said. On Friday, the broader stock market was little changed, but stocks in the S&P utilities sector, preferred by low-risk investors during the current low-return period in bonds, slid as prospects for higher rates weighed. Utilities were the best performer among S&P sectors in 2014, gaining nearly 30 percent on a total return basis as yields dove. The sector was down 3 percent in afternoon trading, on track to post its largest daily drop since August 2011. Jim Paulsen, chief investment officer at Wells Capital Management in Minneapolis, said as rates begin to rise, stocks in the energy and materials sectors could outperform. He also saw a rate rise as negative for residential real estate investment trusts, though for REITs tied to commercial space it could be more of a positive. REUTERS Cartoon Arts International / The New York Times Syndicate Retirement plans tap multiple managers

BY JESSICA TOONKEL retirement plans, with $21bn in Mather, Mark Kiesel and Mihir BlackRock’s quantitative core Brian Ward, an adviser based Pimco fund costs 0.46 percent. assets under management. Worah assumed management of fixed income strategy and Dodge in Brentwood, Tennessee, who Ward said that risk-adjusted ETIREMENT plans Melzer is moving clients from the fund as well as the value they & Cox’s, both of which are team manages $3bn in retirement plan performance is more important representing tens of Pimco to the team-managed delivered across numerous Pimco managed, said Carl Nelson, exec- assets, said he has had to talk a than historical returns and while billions of dollars in Dodge & Cox Income Fund and strategies, is testament to the utive secretary and chief invest- number of clients out of following the funds might be more expen- assets are turning to the Baird Core Plus Bond Fund. consistency of Pimco’s approach,” ment officer of the pension. Gross to Janus because he worries sive, their returns, which are net multiple investment Gross, a co-founder and driv- a Pimco spokesman said in an “Pimco had a strong team and about the same kind of headline of expenses, are worth the added Rstrategies or team-managed funds ing force at Pimco, had been a email statement on Thursday. continues to have a strong team, but risk following him. costs. “Sometimes you get what to replace Pimco Total Return and safe long-term bet for retirement More than 27,000 of the largest they just had too much turmoil on Instead, Ward is suggesting you pay for,” he said. avoid the risks associated with plans. The Pimco Total Return corporate 401(k) plans in the country the upper levels due to the events of employers move plan partici- Pensionmark Retirement being dependent on one manager. Fund, which grew to a peak of had over $80bn in the Total Return the past few months,” he said. pants invested in Total Return Group, a Santa Barbara, There has been a rush of $292.9bn in April 2013, sported a Fund at the end of 2013, accord- A spokeswoman for Janus into two funds: the Prudential California-based adviser that withdrawals from Pimco after cumulative return of 692 percent ing to the most recent data from declined to comment. Global Total Return Fund and serves over 2,000 small 401(k) management turmoil last year between its 1987 inception and BrightScope, which rates retirement To be sure, Jeffrey Gundlach, either the Loomis Sayles Bond plans across the country, also spooked investors, including the Gross’ exit last year, surpassing plans. The roster included Wal- Gross’s main rival as a dominant Fund or the Delaware Diversified replaced Pimco Total Return with shock departure of Bill Gross, 96 percent of its peers. Mart’s $20.6bn plan, the largest in bond fund manager, has been Income Fund, all of which are a choice of team managed funds. co-founder and manager of Total But the fund’s performance in the country by participants, as well doing well since Gross left Pimco. team-managed. The firm conducted a review Return, for Janus Capital Group Gross’s last year wasn’t as stellar. as Raytheon’s and Verizon’s. The open-end mutual funds in While all three funds have out- of other funds in its plans that in September. Total Return Fund posted returns Wal-Mart, Raytheon and Gundlach’s DoubleLine Funds performed Pimco Total Return have star managers, including Cash withdrawals totalled $150 of 3.5 percent for the trailing 12 Verizon did not return e-mails. have had net inflows totaling for the past three and five years Fidelity Investments’ Contrafund, bn from Pimco’s US open-end months ended September 26, There is no data on how many about $9.8bn through January. on a risk-adjusted basis, mean- Fidelity’s New Insights Fund and mutual funds in 2014. In January, 2014, trailing 77 percent of their plans have replaced Pimco Total “Like a number of asset man- ing based on the level of risks T. Rowe Price’s Equity Income investors pulled $11.6bn from the peer fund group, according to Return for multiple managers or agers, DoubleLine has benefited the manager took, the Delaware Fund and Capital Appreciation Pimco Total Return Fund. Morningstar. Pimco replaced team managed funds, but advisers from the investment assets that fund has actually underper- Fund, said Ronnie Cox, director “Clients are asking, ‘How do we Gross with a team of three portfo- who consult retirement plans with were put in motion due to con- formed Pimco Total Return for of investments and technology. know the same thing isn’t going lio managers; since Gross left, the tens of billions of dollars in assets cerns relative to Pimco such as the past three years, according to Pensionmark has had additional to happen there?’” said Mendel fund has returned 3.63 percent, told Reuters they are doing so. overexposure, concerns which Morningstar. And the Delaware, conversations with these firms to Melzer, chief investment officer for beating 93 percent of its peers, The $1.2bn San Luis Obispo accelerated obviously with the Loomis and Prudential Funds cost get a better sense of the dynamics The Newport Group, a Heathrow, according to Morningstar. County Pension Trust is taking news of September 26,” said more than Pimco Total Return, at the companies and has decided Florida-based consultant to insti- “The strong performance of the the $210m it has in Pimco’s core Loren Fleckenstein, analyst at with expense ratios of 0.65 percent, to keep them. tutional investors, including 400 Total Return Fund since Scott bond strategy and putting it into DoubleLine. 0.63 percent and 0.87 percent. The REUTERS SUNDAY 8 FEBRUARY 2015 22 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com SPORT

Sail the Gulf competition concludes

Sailors in action on day four of the Sail the Gulf competition off the coast of Katara in Doha yesterday. Around 110 sailors representing 20 countries took part in the event that ended yesterday. English leads at Torrey Maple Leafs lose 11th game in a row

NEWARK, New Jersey: Long- The Maple Leafs will have a time New Jersey Devil Patrik chance to end the streak Saturday Pines as Mickelson exits Elias finally joined the 400-goal against Edmonton, the NHL’s club. second-worst team. Reimer used The “achievement” for the blunts words to describe the After Woods exit, San Diego native fails to make the cut Toronto Maple Leafs on the same Maple Leafs’ streak. night was no cause for celebra- “When things are going the tion. Elias ended a nine-game way they’re going, we have to find LA JOLLA, California: Local goal-scoring drought with his a way to rally around each other,” favourite Phil Mickelson has 400th career tally and the Devils he said. “We have to smarten up joined Tiger Woods as a week- sent the Maple Leafs a franchise- and play with passion, play like end casualty as the five-time record 11th straight loss, 4-1 men, play with resolve. We don’t major winner failed to make the Friday night. have that right now.” cut at the Farmers Insurance “Yeah, finally, that’s how it felt,” The puck came out the right Open at Torrey Pines on Friday. said Elias, who earlier this sea- side and Ruutu slid the puck in Mickelson backed up his 74 on son picked up his 600th assist and off the skate of goaltender James the South course from round one 1,000th point. “It seems good to Reimer, who could not get to the with an even-par 72 on the easier finally get on the board. It’s been goal post quick enough. Bernier North Course on Friday to be left a while. It’s been a strange year.” extended the lead to 3-0 later in at two-over and headed for the Elias, who has spent his entire the second period with his sixth exit door Woods went through on 17-year NHL career with the goal in eight games. Reimer made Thursday with a back injury. Devils, became the 91st player in a pad save on a shot by Adam The San Diego native was league history to score 400 goals Larsson from the right point, 12 shots off the pace of fellow with a shot from inside the right but the rebound hit the back of American Harris English, who circle early in the second period Bernier’s skate and went into the put together a six-under 66 on off a nice pass by Travis Zajac. net. the North course to push out to It came less than a minute after “Whenever we made a mistake, 10-under 134 and a two-shot lead Elias hit the post. The goal came it ends up in the back of the net,” late in the second round. with Elias’ daughter, Sophia, in Bozak said. Until Bozak scored “I take a lot of positives from attendance at the Prudential with 8:09 left in regulation, the today. I hit the ball well, made Center, marking the first time the closest the Maple Leafs came was some really good putts and hit toddler has seen him score, Elias a shot off the crossbar by former some good wedge shots,” English believes. “It’s a great accomplish- Devil David Clarkson in the said. ment to score 400 goals in this first period. Bozak got his 15th He is bogey free through two Harris English plays his tee shot on the 17th hole of the north course during round two of the Farmers Insurance league,” Zajac said of Elias, who by tapping the rebound of Phil rounds, the first time a player has Open at Torrey Pines Golf Course in La Jolla, California, on Friday. has played on two of the Devils’ Kessel’s shot into an open net. accomplished the feat at the tour- three Stanley Cup winners. Kessel’s shot hit off the crossbar nament in four years. But he played the last “I was just a little bit off but I have gone in, but didn’t. But I Devils President and General and the Devils seemed to stop “I was very excited about seven holes one over, joining still played pretty well,” Johnson hung in there and fought pretty Manager Lou Lamoriello said playing, thinking the shot went that yesterday,” Harris said. Woods, world number five Justin said. hard. Just a little rusty that’s all.” Elias is an all-purpose player who in the net. “Especially coming out this morn- Rose, the returning Dustin “I had a lots of putts that could REUTERS plays at both ends of the ice. “He Jagr scored into an empty net ing and having to finish some Johnson, Luke Donald and has the highest hockey sense you for his 716th career goal, one holes (from the first round) kind Jordan Spieth as high profile can have,” Lamoriello said. behind Phil Esposito for fifth in of in the cold and it’s good to casualties. Farmers Insurance Open Scores Tuomo Ruutu, Steve Bernier NHL history. make some of those six-footers “It’s very frustrating for me Leading second-round scores on Friday in the $6.3m US PGA Tour and Jaromir Jagr also scored as Ruutu had given the Devils the coming out for par.” right now,” Mickelson said. “I felt Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines (USA unless noted): the streaking Devils won their lead midway through the first American Nick Watney put really ready to start the year and third straight for the first time period, aided by a lucky bounce together a 65 on the North and these first few weeks have been 134 Harris English 68-66 since the start of the season and off the boards behind the net. Venezuelan Jhonattan Vegas a very poor. 136 Nick Watney 71-65, Jhonattan Vegas (VEN) 67-69, Martin Laird (SCO) 68-68 improved to 8-2-2 in the last Ruutu made a cross-ice pass to solid 69 to move to eight-under “I feel like I’m hitting the ball 137 Nicholas Thompson 64-73 dozen games. Mark Fraser at the left point, but and a share of second with Briton tee to green quite well, really well, 138 Chad Campbell 67-71, Spencer Levin 68-70, Marc Leishman (AUS) 72-66, Michael Thompson The Maple Leafs’ skid breaks Fraser’s shot was wide of the net. Martin Laird (68). but my putting is beyond pathetic 65-73, Jason Day (AUS) 73-65, Ian Poulter (ENG) 67-71, Jimmy Walker 72-66, Daniel Berger the old mark set by the 1966- AGENCIES But for Mickelson it was a day and if I can’t get back to the lev- 70-68, Lucas Glover 70-68, Andres Gonzales 69-69 67 team. That group rebounded to forget with two bogeys in his els of 2013, I’m not sure what I’m with a 10-game unbeaten streak 139 Brendon de Jonge (ZIM) 67-72, J.B. Holmes 69-70, Bill Haas 72-67, J.J. Henry 68-71, David NHL Results first five holes. going to do, because this is very (eight wins, two ties) and won New Jersey 4 Toronto 1 Toms 70-69 He pegged them back with frustrating.” the Stanley Cup, the last time Washington 3 Anaheim 2 back-to-back birdies on the 16th Johnson, who spent six-months 140 Greg Owen (ENG) 70-70, Brian Harman 71-69, Cameron Percy (NZL) 71-69, John Peterson Toronto was in a Cup final. Columbus 7 St Louis 1 and 17th, his seventh and eighth on a voluntary leave of absence 68-72, John Huh 74-66, Gary Woodland 68-72, Brooks Koepka 66-74, Camilo Villegas (COL) “These are not the kind of Chicago 2 Winnipeg 1 holes, and gave fans hope with a for personal rehabilitation, missed 70-70, Freddie Jacobson (SWE) 67-73, Pat Perez 75-65, Alex Prugh 70-70, Steve Wheatcroft records you want to set,” Bozak birdie on the second, his 11th. the cut by a shot. 73-67 said. “It’s awful.” Pittsburgh 4 Calgary 0 San Antonio Spurs ease past Miami Heat in finals rematch

SAN ANTONIO: The San superstar LeBron shot gave the Miles drained three three- Antonio Spurs cruised past James, trailed by NBA Results Spurs a 77-61 pointers in the final period, and Miami 98-85 on Friday in an 13 early, but pro- Brooklyn 92 NY Knicks 88 lead going into George Hill completed a remark- NBA finals rematch that under- duced an 11-0 Indiana 103 Cleveland 99 the fourth quar- able four-point play with 1:26 scored how far the Heat have scoring run that Orlando 103 LA Lakers 97 ter, and the mar- remaining that put the Pacers fallen. bridged the first gin swelled to as up for good. Toronto 123 LA Clippers 107 Kawhi Leonard scored 24 and second quar- many as 20 points Cleveland’s Kyrie Irving points and French point guard ters to trim the Atlanta 124 Golden State 116 in the final frame. snagged Hill’s left hand as Hill Tony Parker added 21 for the deficit to two at Boston 107 Philadelphia 96 The Spurs open dribbled around a screen set by Spurs in what proved to be an 30-28. Detroit 98 Denver 88 a nine-game road Roy Hibbert at the top of the arc, anti-climactic showdown of the But from there, Houston 117 Milwaukee 111 trip at Toronto Hill using his right hand to flip in past two NBA champions. reigning champi- Minnesota 90 Memphis 89 on Sunday, when a neat basket from three-point Tim Duncan chipped in 10 ons San Antonio Popovich can range — looking surprised himself New Orleans 116 Oklahoma City 113 points and 12 rebounds for the dominated. become the ninth when it fell. Spurs, who gave head coach Gregg A 13-0 Spurs Phoenix 100 Utah 93 coach in NBA Hill connected on the ensuing Popovich his 999th career victory. run, highlighted San Antonio 98 Miami 85 history with 1,000 foul shot to give the Pacers a 95-92 Britain’s Luol Deng scored by two three- wins. lead. After Cavs superstar LeBron 17 points and Chris Bosh added pointers from Leonard, extended Pacers snap Cavaliers’ James missed a three-pointer, 14 with seven rebounds for the San Antonio’s lead to 45-30. The 12-game win streak Miles snatched the rebound from Heat, who have dropped four of hosts led 52-41 at halftime. In Indianapolis, former Iman Shumpert and was fouled. five games since Dwyane Wade Leonard and Parker scored Cleveland guard C.J. Miles scored He drained both free throws Miami Heat’s power forward Chris Andersen (left) reacts after receiving began sitting out with a ham- 16 points apiece in the first half 26 points as Indiana snapped the with 53.2 seconds remaining and a technical foul during the second half of an NBA game against the San string injury. and combined for 11 points in the Cavaliers’ 12-game NBA winning the Cavaliers couldn’t recover, Antonio Spurs at AT&T Center in San Antonio on Friday. Miami, yet to redefine them- third quarter. streak with a 103-99 come-from- suffering their first defeat since selves since the departure of Tiago Splitter’s turnaround behind triumph. January 13. AFP SUNDAY 8 FEBRUARY 2015 SPORT www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 23

Favoured Ivory Coast Atletico thrash woeful face Ghana in ‘dream’ final

BATA, Equatorial Guinea: Real 4-0 in Madrid derby Ivory Coast face what is likely to be their sternest test of the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations when they Los Rojiblancos seal their first home league win over Real since 1999 tackle Ghana today in what has been dubbed the ‘dream’ final. Two of Africa’s football pow- MADRID: Atletico Madrid period and coach Carlo Ancelotti erhouses are in dire need of a blew the La Liga title race responded by introducing Jese continental trophy after long, wide open by extending their Rodriguez for Khedira at the frustrating waits. Ghana have unbeaten run over Real Madrid break. won the Cup of Nations four to six games this season with a However, it made little impact times but their last conquest was 4-0 thrashing of the European as Real failed to muster a sin- 33 years ago, while the Ivorians champions yesterday. gle shot on target during the 90 only triumph was in 1992 and, First-half goals from Tiago and minutes. ironically, it was at the expense Saul Niguez put Atletico in com- Griezmann came close twice of Ghana. mand before Antoine Griezmann more with a powerful shot that Ivory Coast beat their west and Mario Mandzukic sealed a Casillas parried before also try- African neighbours 11-10 on pen- first home league win over Real ing his luck with an overhead kick alties after 120 minutes of action since 1999 just after the hour that flew inches over. did not produce any goals in mark. The Frenchman did get the Dakar. In the absence of defend- Atletico have now beaten their goal his performance deserved ing champions Nigeria and record city rivals twice in La Liga and 24 minutes from time when Saul seven-time winners Egypt, two of over two legs in the Spanish headed Arda Turan’s cross back the continent’s most consistent Supercup and Copa del Rey this across goal and he outmuscled teams will clash for African foot- season to bounce back in fine style international team-mate Raphael ball’s biggest prize. from their heartbreaking loss in Varane to prod home from a yard Both started this tournament the Champions League final last out. And Real’s embarrassment slowly - the Ivorians needed to season. was complete a minute from time win their last group game against Real still lead their city rivals when substitute Fernando Torres Cameroon to reach the knockout by four points, but Barcelona can crossed for Mandzukic to power stage, while Ghana fought back move to within a point of the home a header into the far corner. from an opening-day loss to leaders should they beat Athletic AFP Senegal to make the final. Atletico Madrid’s Mario Mandzukic (left) celebrates after scoring his team’s fourth goal against Real Madrid Bilbao on Sunday. Former Nigeria skipper Sunday during their Spanish first division soccer match at the Vicente Calderon Stadium in Madrid yesterday. “It is easy to analyse this game Oliseh, who won the Cup of because Atletico were better in La Liga Results Nations in 1994 and came close every facet of the game: they Today their capacity to under- limped off, but that curse turned hurtled down the left and his MADRID: Spanish La Liga to another title in 2000, has fought more, had more quality on stand what we needed and exe- into a blessing as he was replaced cross was acrobatically turned results yesterday: tipped Ivory Coast to win, but the ball, had better organisation, cute it was fantastic,” said the by Saul. home by Saul with an overhead Atletico Madrid 4 (Tiago 14, Saul 18, also warned Ghana are capable everything,” said Real boss Carlo Argentine. The hosts went in front on 13 kick. Griezmann 66, Mandzukic 89) Real Madrid 0 of causing an upset. “Ivory Coast Ancelotti. World Player of the Year minutes when Mandzukic laid Atletico’s advantage at the On Friday is clear favourite to win the final,” “It is the worst game we have Cristiano Ronaldo returned from Juanfran’s cross from the right break could have been even Deportivo La Coruna 2 (Lucas 52, Cavaleiro said Oliseh on his website. played since I have been coach.” a two-game ban, but the visitors into the path of Tiago on the edge greater as Griezmann had a goal 79) Eibar 0 “Player for player, Ivory Coast Atletico boss Diego Simeone were otherwise depleted without of the area and the Portuguese’s marginally ruled out for offside Playing today has better individuals than Ghana meanwhile lauded his players the injured Sergio Ramos, Pepe, low effort had too much power and strong claims for a penalty and they are playing better as a Cordoba vs Almeria (1100), Getafe v Sevilla ability to carry out his gameplan Luka Modric, James Rodriguez for Iker Casillas, who will feel he against Sami Khedira were waved team now, especially when not in (1600), Espanyol vs Valencia (1800), Athletic better than he could ever have and suspended Marcelo. should have kept it out. away after he blocked Diego possession. Bilbao vs Barcelona (2000) imagined. Atletico suffered an injury blow Four minutes later Atletico Godin’s effort with his hand. “Ghana are quite impressive “I always insist that the players of their own after just 10 minutes doubled their lead with a move of Real offered barely anything as On Monday and, with (Christian) Atsu and are the most important people. when Spanish international Koke real quality as Guilherme Siqueira an attacking threat in the first Elche vs Rayo Vallecano (1945) the Ayew brothers (Andre and Jordan), are becoming unpredict- able and champion material. “They go into this final as City slip lets Chelsea underdogs but with less pressure, unlike Ivory Coast, due to the fact that not many would have bet on them coming this far when the go seven points clear tournament kicked off.” The “new generation” Black LONDON: Manchester City’s Ahmed Elmohamady hit the Stars have flourished under 1-1 draw at home to Hull City crossbar with a header from a former Chelsea manager Avram allowed Chelsea to establish a Robbie Brady cross before Meyler Grant and displayed strong char- seven-point lead in the Premier broke the deadlock in the 35th acter throughout this campaign. League by winning 2-1 at Aston minute, sweeping home after “The boys do not give up, Villa yesterday. Gaston Ramirez’s low shot hit the they have fought till the end of City had kept Chelsea within right-hand post. every match,” remarked skipper their sights by holding Jose After Aguero had hit the bar Asamoah Gyan, who remains an Mourinho’s side to a 1-1 draw at in the second half, Milner bent injury doubt after sustaining an Stamford Bridge last weekend, in a 25-yard free-kick in the 92nd abdominal injury in the quarter- but after slipping up against Hull, minute, but it could not prevent final against Guinea. the champions’ grip on the title is City registering a fifth game with- Ivory Coast, on the other hand, weakening. out a win in all competitions. have been tactically shrewd and James Milner earned the hosts Chelsea took full advantage as well organised when they do not a share of the points with an Mourinho claimed his first vic- have the ball. They have been injury-time free-kick after David tory at Villa Park at the sixth able to combine talented stars Meyler had put Hull ahead in the attempt. like Yaya Toure and Gervinho first half, but City have now won Eden Hazard broke the dead- with hard-working team-mates. only once in six league games. lock in the eighth minute, finish- Gervinho said they are gunning “It is difficult to know what the ing from Willian’s incisive pass for history against Ghana. “It has reason is for the spark going,” said after Oscar had found space on been a long time since we have City manager Manuel Pellegrini. the right. The unmarked Jores had a final between Ghana and “Every point you lose, it is more Okore headed in a 48th-minute Ivory Coast and we want to write difficult to recover. But in foot- equaliser, ending an 11-hour goal Pedro Henrique of Rennes vies for the ball against Benjamin Mendy of Olympic Marseille during the French our history too. This is our chance ball you never know. We are not drought for Villa, but Branislav Ligue 1 match at the Route de Lorient stadium in Rennes, France, yesterday. and we hope to take it,” the Roma thinking about Chelsea. Ivanovic restored Chelsea’s lead forward said. AFP “They are six (seven) points with a powerful left-foot shot in clear, but can lose games. We are the 66th minute. thinking about our performance.” “It is one more hurdle in the Pellegrini fielded Edin Dzeko up title race, but there are many front alongside Sergio Aguero, but more,” Mourinho told the BBC. Al Kass Cup: Late goal gives Sao it was Hull, who began the game Liverpool drew 0-0 at Everton in the bottom three, who showed in a dour derby, Steven Gerrard’s the greater enterprise. last for the Reds, which did little to help his seventh-placed side nudge up towards the Champions Paulo victory over Atletico Madrid League spots. Prolific Tottenham Hotspur DOHA: Sao Paulo Football Club approach brought reward in striker Harry Kane marked his of Brazil and Club Atlético River the 21st minute when the lively first north London derby against Plate of Argentina registered Gustavo Dos Santos sprinted Arsenal with a double strike that contrasting wins in the Al Kass clear down the right, his low cross Sao Paulo’s hauled his side back from a goal International Cup. evading the desperate lunge of goal scorer down to win 2-1, moving them The Brazilians snatched a Atletico’s Alejandro Diaz, allow- celebrates above their neighbours into fifth dramatic injury time win over ing Paulo Da Silva to stroke home during place in the table. AFP Atletico Madrid to ensure the first time at the far post. their match Spaniards will finish bottom of Despite falling a goal behind Group D. In the other match, there was no danger of Atletico against English Premier Franco Lopez was the undisputed capitulating, and in the 34th Atletico star of the show as a classy River minute they were level. Gallego Madrid in League Results Plate line-up made light work of swung in a free kick 30 yards out the Al Kass Juventus. on the left, and tall striker Pablo International LONDON: English Premier In the Group D match, Atletico Romero climbed highest to power Cup in League results yesterday: had come into the game hoping a well-directed header into the Doha yes- Aston Villa 1 (Okore 48) Chelsea 2 (Hazard for a victory to prevent an early top left corner. Sao Paulo found terday. The 8, Ivanovic 66); Leicester 0 Crystal Palace 1 exit from the tournament. Sao a way to win with practically the Brazilians (Ledley 55); Manchester City 1 (Milner 90) Paulo, meanwhile, were making last action of the game, when Hull City’s midfielder Jake Hull 1 (Meyler 35); QPR 0 Southampton 1 won 2-1 with their first appearance at Al Kass, Lucas De Oliviera crossed for Dos Livermore (left) vies for the ball (Mane 90); Swansea 1 (Ki 66) Sunderland an injury and quickly slipped into gear. Santos to slide home from close with Manchester City’s mid- 1 (Defoe 42); Tottenham 2 (Kane 56, 86) time goal With five minutes on the clock, range. Sao Paulo’s 2-1 victory con- fielder Samir Nasri during the Arsenal 1 (Ozil 11); Everton 0 Liverpool 0 against the striker Paulo Da Silva controlled demns Atletico to last place in English Premier League football Spaniards. Playing today well, evading the challenge of Group D, with the Brazilians set match at the Etihad Stadium in Burnley vs West Brom (1200 GMT), Newcastle Miguel Mateos before firing just to battle for top spot against the Manchester, north west England, vs Stoke (1405 GMT), West Ham vs over the Atletico bar. widely fancied PSG on Sunday. yesterday. Manchester United (1615 GMT) Sao Paulo’s their positive THE PENINSULA SUNDAY 8 FEBRUARY 2015 24 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com SPORT

2015 UIM Qatar Qatar Cup: Al Neama claims Cup – Race 2 Results SuperVee 1. Joe Sgro (USA)/Steve Curtis (GBR) Outerlimits 43 DNF Brett Furshman (USA)/Billy Glueck (USA) 3rd spot in SuperCat contest Twisted Metal 30 DNS SuperCat 1. Jay Cooke (USA)/Randy Sweers (USA) Victory S-3, Racing for Cancer and Outerlimits notch up wins at Doha Bay Racing for Cancer/Fast Boats 33 44min 05.8sec 2. Wayne Valder (NZL)/Chris Hanley (NZL) Pro Floors Racing 51 44min 22.8sec DOHA: Dubai’s Victory 3. Ali Al-Neama (QAT)/Billy Moore (USA) S-3, Racing for Cancer and Spirit of Qatar 20 44min 24.0sec Outerlimits claimed victories in the SuperCar Lite, SuperCat 4. George Stancombe (USA)/Michael and SuperVee categories in Stancombe (USA) Peppers/Peters & May 2 their second races at the inau- 45min 18.1sec gural UIM Qatar Cup in Doha 5. Paul Boudreaux (USA)/Jay Price (USA) Bay yesterday. Thorndon/Ragin Cajun 57 DNF Victory S-3’s Arif Saif Al 6. Dan Lawrence (USA)/Ron Roman (USA) Zafeen and Nadir bin Hendi were Spirit of Qatar Motley Crew 00 DNF the class of the SuperCat Lite competes at the SuperCat Lite SuperCat category field and reached the chequered 1. Nadir Bin Hendi (ARE)/Arif Saif Al-Zafeen flag 9.4 seconds in front of Robert event at the Qatar (ARE) Victory S-3 40min 34.1sec Cup, yesterday at Nunziato and Dan Lawrence in 2. Robert Nunziato (USA)/Dan Lawrence The Hulk. Team Abu Dhabi’s Doha Bay. (USA) The Hulk S-1 40min 43.5sec Faleh Al Mansoori and Al Tayer 3. Faleh Al-Mansoori (ARE)/Rashed Al-Tayer were a further 40 seconds adrift (ARE) Team Abu Dhabi 5 41min 15.0sec and rounded off the podium places. Mohammed and Nasser 4. Lynn Wagemann (USA)/Jay Muller (USA) Al Nasser finished fifth in Spirit Wicked Performance Marine S-33 43min of Qatar 94. 00.8sec The Pro Floors Racing crew of 5. Mohammed Al-Nasser (QAT)/Nasser Wayne Valder and Chris Hanley Al-Nasser (QAT) Spirit of Qatar 94 43min looked likely to win a thrilling 39.0sec SuperCat race after leading from 6. Tanner Lewis (USA)/Ryan Beckley (USA) lap eight to lap 11. Peters & May Racing S-111 44min 26.8sec A fierce battle waged between Grant Bruggeman (USA)/Gary Ballough Pro Floors Racing, long-time (USA) Smart Marine/Auto Mart S-110 DNF leaders Motley Crew and Racing Allen Christy (USA)/Lee Austin (USA) LA for Cancer and the Kiwis were Dubai’s Victory S-3 Marine S-12 DNF deprived of the win after being in action in SuperCat C1 overtaken by Racing for Cancer’s Lite category event 1. Jassim Abdullah Al-Buainain/Hassan Jay Cooke and Randy Sweers on at the Qatar Cup, lap 12. Motley Crew later retired. Nasser Al-Buainain (QAT) 29min 15.91sec yesterday. RIGHT: 2. Mohammed Turki Jumaa/Mohammed The Kiwis eventually finished Pro Class race 17 seconds behind their American Saud Alrzaihan (KUW) 29min 22.15sec action at Doha Bay, rivals. Spirit of Qatar 20’s Ali Al 3. Khalid Ali Ayadeh/Mohammed Ali Ayadeh yesterday. Neama and Billy Moore led on (KUW) 30min 02.98sec lap one before slipping down to 4. Abdullah Youssef Mohammed/Abdullatif fifth and then climbing back to Al-Omani (KWT) 30min 22.49sec the third position. 5. Khaled Ahmed Al-Hassan/Hamad Youssef Joe Sgro and Steve Curtis were Al-Sharah (KUW) 30min 41.49sec never troubled on their way to a C2 comfortable second successive lead over The Hulk by the end May heading Spirit of Qatar 94 The UIM Qatar Cup was organ- Six boats again contested the 1. Ahmed Fouad Abul/Abdullatif Mohammed success in the SuperVee category, of lap one. Both LA Marine and in fifth. Al Zafeen and Bin Hendi ised by the Qatar Marine Sports second 11-lap C2 race on the Al-Omani (KUW) 29min 55.65sec once Twisted Metal gave up the Smart Marine were sidelined, as continued to apply the pressure Federation (QMSF) in conjunc- Inshore course and the leading ghost. The Hulk and Team Abu Dhabi at the head of the field, as the S-3 tion with Offshore Powerboat protagonists from the opening 2. Ahmed Sulaiman Al-Fassam/Nasser They stopped on the last lap, gave chase over the subsequent boat and The Hulk began to edge Grand Prix (OPGP). race swapped positions on this Bader Al-Fassam (KUW) 30min 05.52sec although they had been ahead laps. away from Team Abu Dhabi. “I would like to extend a big occasion, with Kuwait’s Ahmed 3. Rashid Al-Muhannadi/Mohammed Jassim of four of their SuperCat rivals By lap six, Victory’s advantage Wicked Performance Marine thanks to everyone at OPGP, Fouad Abdul getting the better Al-Harkan (QAT) 31min 11.90sec before failing to reach the cheq- over Robert Nunziato and Dan moved well clear of Spirit of the QMSF and all our visiting of race one winner and fellow UIM World Offshore 225 Championship uered flag. Lawrence in The Hulk was a con- Qatar, although Mohammed guests who made the inaugural countryman Ahmed Sulaiman – results (provisional) Al Zafeen and Bin Hendi led stant five seconds, with Team Abu Al-Nasser managed to pass Peters UIM Qatar Cup such a success- Al Fassam. 1. EFE Project 41min 34.085sec 220pts from the start of the 12-lap Dhabi’s Al Mansoori and Al Tayer & May on lap eight and claim fifth ful event,” said Sheikh Hassan bin Qatar’s Rashid Al-Muhannadi 2. Qatar 42min 36.875sec 154pts SuperCat Lite race and had in third, Wicked Performance place – a position they held to the Jabor Al Thani, President of the rounded off the podium places in 3. Big Chefs 42min 44.925sec 127pts already edged into a four-second Marine in fourth and Peters & chequered flag. QMSF. third. THE PENINSULA Bayern earn first win of the year, United seek rhythm at battle-worn West Ham Dortmund climb off the bottom LONDON: With 15 games of the them -- Arsenal, Tottenham Premier League season remain- Hotspur and Liverpool -- seem BERLIN: Leaders Bayern ing ahead of today’s trip to to be slipping into gear. Munich eased past VfB West Ham United, Manchester Van Gaal’s tactical experi- Stuttgart 2-0 yesterday to grab United know that the time for mentations mean that United their first win of the year, as did experimentation is at an end. still have the look of a work in Borussia Dortmund who beat United went into the week- progress and in West Ham, they Freiburg 3-0 to climb off the end in third place in the table, face opponents who have lost bottom of the Bundesliga table. Bayern but their rivals for Champions only once in their last 10 home Bayern winger Arjen Robben Munich’s League qualification all appear matches. notched his 12th league goal this Arjen to be finding form and Louis van “I said before the game against season when he picked up the ball Robben (left) Gaal’s (pictured) side continue Leicester City that this is an just inside the box and drilled in celebrates to impress only in fits and starts. important week and we have to an unstoppable left-foot shot in his goal with After a run of only one win in win all three matches,” said Van the 41st minute for the visitors. David Alaba five league games, culminating in a Gaal, who has vowed to contest a Stuttgart, who hit the post during their 1-0 loss at home to Southampton, Football Association charge over in the first half, went further German United have got remarks he made behind in the 51st minute when Bundesliga back on track, about the referee David Alaba curled a spectacular winning their last following last first division 35-metre free kick into the top two games and month’s 0-0 draw match corner of the net. scoring six goals at Cambridge. “We are not perfect. We can against VfB in the process. “After we beat still improve,” Bayern coach Pep Stuttgart But both of Leicester, we were Guardiola told reporters. “We in Stuttgart those victories third in the league. should run less and move more yesterday. came with cave- After that, we with the ball in our possession.” ats. Leicester City, beat Cambridge Bayern, who had claimed one who United beat and we are in the point from their previous two 3-1 last week- next round of the games, move up to 49 points end, are bottom FA Cup. with Stuttgart, champions in of the table, and United can 2007, dropping to last place on Cambridge United, at least call on beaten 3-0 in the FA Cup on a close to fully fit squad, with 18. “That goal just before the The 2014 World Cup winner also then scored again after a dizzying Tuesday, play in the fourth tier. Michael Carrick (calf) the only Bundesliga Results break was crucial,” Robben said. crashed the ball against the bar in passing move in the Freiburg box Double-edged statistics become doubt for the trip to Upton Park, Results of Bundesliga matches “Stuttgart defended in numbers the 28th minute and De Bruyne in the 72nd minute. a recurring theme when United’s where they won 2-0 last season in played yesterday. and it was good that one went in. pounced on the rebound to make “We saw what happens if you recent form is subjected to a game that saw Wayne Rooney It was about time we got three it 2-0. Last season’s runners-up have self-confidence,” said coach scrutiny. score an outrageous lob from the Cologne 0 SC Paderborn 0 points from a game.” Dortmund breathed a huge sigh Juergen Klopp whose Dortmund Van Gaal’s side have not lost halfway line. Mainz 0 Hertha Berlin 2 Belgium winger Kevin De of relief after beating Freiburg in team meet Juventus in the away from home since a 1-0 Rooney was sent off in this Freiburg 0 Borussia Dortmund 3 Bruyne scored twice for second- their relegation battle, their first Champions League last 16 later reverse at Manchester City on season’s reverse fixture for hack- VfB Stuttgart 0 Bayern Munich 2 placed VfL Wolfsburg in their victory since early December lift- this month. “Today things were November 2, but in their last four ing down Stewart Downing after 3-0 win over Hoffenheim, tak- ing them to third from bottom. a lot better. I am not surprised.” away matches they have won only opening the scoring in a 2-1 win. VfL Wolfsburg 3 Hoffenheim 0 ing his tally to four goals in three Marco Reus gave attacking Coach Pal Dardai enjoyed a once, and that at second-bottom West Ham’s infirmary, in stark Played Friday matches and keeping his team Dortmund a morale-boosting winning debut at Hertha Berlin Queens Park Rangers. contrast, is full to bursting, with Schalke 1 Moenchengladbach 0 eight points behind Bayern. early lead before Pierre-Emerick with a 2-0 victory over 10-man And while last weekend’s hamstring injuries to Winston Today’s fixtures (GMT) Andre Schuerrle, Wolfsburg’s Aubameyang struck twice. Mainz 05. results enabled United to hold on Reid and James Collins likely to record signing from Chelsea, The Gabon international He replaced the sacked to third place and close to within see Cheikhou Kouyate pressed Werder Bremen vs Bayer Leverkusen (1430) made his first start and set up capped a quick break with a fine Jos Luhukay on Thursday. five points of second-placed into action as an emergency cen- FC Augsburg vs Eintracht Frankfurt (1630) Bas Dost for the opening goal. run and shot for his opener. He REUTERS Manchester City, the teams below tre-back. AFP SUNDAY 8 FEBRUARY 2015 SPORT www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 25 Dhoni sees open World Cup, pressure on hosts SYDNEY: The cricket World of six or seven teams that I’m when they needed to. “When we teams have won,” said Dhoni. Cup could be won by any one talking about. So I feel it will be went and played the Champions “The expectation of the people, India’s of the “balanced” six or seven a very special World Cup for all Trophy (in 2013) we were in a it’s very high. teams in the fray, according to the teams. similar situation like this and the “I think the same will apply Mahendra India captain Mahendra Singh “It’s a matter of which team guys stepped up, that’s what I feel to the Australians and the New Singh Dhoni Dhoni. is more consistent during the is important,” he added. Zealand side, but at the same gestures South Africa and Australia World Cup, what kind of momen- “What we have seen is how time, their culture is slightly dif- during a are seen as the favourites for the tum they take with them into the you rise to an occasion like this ferent, so what’s a kind of expec- training February 14-March 29 tourna- knockout stages and all of that and how you take the confidence tation level that we’ll have to wait session before ment, while co-hosts New Zealand will be crucial.” forward to something that’s more and watch.” the fourth also loom as most people’s third Dhoni was unconcerned about important.” Dhoni’s wife gave birth to their Test against pick given a strong run of form at his own side’s lack of positive The last World Cup had created first child on Friday and while he England at the home against fellow contenders results heading into the World enormous pressure on the host was delighted by the arrival of his Old Trafford, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Cup after they lost their test nation and Dhoni said that would daughter he was totally focussed Manchester, “I feel this World Cup, most series to Australia then all three have some impact on Australia on the World Cup. in this August of the teams, they are quite bal- of their one-day matches in a and New Zealand, though the “Mum and daughter both are 2014 file anced, and most of the teams are triangular tournament that also expectations would probably not good,” he said. photo. looking good,” Dhoni said in a included England. be the same as his side experi- “But (the) World Cup is a pre-World Cup media conference The wicketkeeper, however, enced in 2011. very important campaign, and yesterday. said they had been written off “It is slightly tough. It’s not everything can wait as of now.” “When I say most, it’s in excess previously only to come right something that a lot of home REUTERS

England captain Pakistan’s star Ajmal Eoin Morgan speaks at a press conference ahead of cleared to bowl again the Cricket World Cup in Sydney, Off-spinner available for World Cup in case of ‘emergency’ yesterday.

LAHORE: Pakistan off-spinner But he has not given up hope Saeed Ajmal has been cleared to of playing in the showpiece bowl after passing biomechanic competition. Morgan slams call for tests on his remodelled action, “Obviously if an emergency the International Cricket arises I am available for the World Council (ICC) said yesterday. Cup even with my modified action A week before the start of although I would like to do more smaller bats after Cup Pakistan’s the World Cup, the ICC said work on my modified action and off-spinner Ajmal and Bangladesh spinner new deliveries,” he told reporters bowler Saeed SYDNEY: England skipper extra man in the circle. Sohaq Gazi had been re-tested in in Lahore. Ajmal speaks Eoin Morgan has criticised as “That’s a point in itself. I’ve not Chennai last month and cleared “I am really delighted today “absolutely ridiculous” sug- come across a bat yet where I’ve to journalists to resume bowling in interna- at my action being cleared but gestion that the size of cricket said ‘this is ridiculous’.” during a press tional cricket. I want to return to top cricket bats should be reduced after the Morgan said he was confident “At the retests, it was revealed when totally comfortable I can conference World Cup. England could perform against an that the amount of elbow exten- repeat my old performances,” in Lahore, The International Cricket in-form Australia in the World sions in both the off-spinners’ Ajmal said. yesterday. Council could crack down on bat Cup, which is jointly hosted by bowling actions for all their deliv- “It has been a hard time for me Ajmal has sizes to prevent players from gain- Australia and New Zealand and eries was within the 15-degree and it is not easy to have had my been cleared ing unfair advantage from hefty begins on February 14. level of tolerance...” the world World Cup plans disrupted. But to bowl by the willows which can send even mis- Australia sealed a crushing 112- governing body said. the bad times are now over and International hits into the stands, reports say. run victory over England in the “The umpires are still at lib- it is the start of a new phase of Cricket Council But Morgan, speaking in final of the ODI tri-series which erty to report Saeed Ajmal and cricket for me,” he added. (ICC) after he Sydney ahead of two World Cup included with India, but Morgan’s Sohag Gazi in the future if they Ajmal, who has taken 178 Test, was he was warm-up games against the West men had two wins against India believe they are displaying a sus- 183 One Day International and banned in 2014 Indies starting tomorrow, said he and a close-run game against pect action and not reproducing 85 Twenty20 wickets is likely to by the ICC disagreed that larger bats were a Australia earlier in the series. the legal actions from the retests,” return to the national side against because of an problem. “The refocus has to be us as a the statement added. Bangladesh in April. illegal bowling “I think it’s ridiculous, abso- side,” Morgan said. Spin spearhead Ajmal pulled “I don’t have any plans to retire action. lutely ridiculous,” he said “If we front up and play as well out of Pakistan’s World Cup and want to play for another yesterday. as we can then of course we can preliminary squad in December three to four years,” he said. “The fact that you can concen- beat Australia.” with the board ruling out any Pakistan, World Cup winners trate on the bat size where the “They’ve had the momentum chance for the 37-year-old to get in 1992, begin their campaign rule changes have been made so throughout the summer but we’ve his remodelled action cleared against arch-rivals and defend- that you bowl with two new balls. had guys performing consistently before the February 14-March ing champions India in Adelaide “The ball is never any older and this is what we’re striving to 29 tournament. on February 15. REUTERS than 25 overs and you have an do.” AFP

Former I’m no ego-centric show-off: Maxwell Indian cricketer SYDNEY: All-rounder Glenn best interest at heart.” The right and brand Australia’s ambassador Maxwell has admitted to being hander might have had maiden upset by the frequent criticism Glenn century but came up five runs of the directed at him but most of all Maxwell (left) short when his innings ended International by the implication that he is not celebrates with a wild swipe at a Stuart Cricket a team man dedicated to help- the wicket Broad delivery that was caught Council ing Australia win the World of England’s behind by Jos Buttler. (ICC) World Cup. Ben Stokes “Some people might think that Cup (CWC) The enigmatic 26-year-old was with team- all the different shots are a way 2015 Sachin saddled with the nickname “The mate Brad of me trying to stand out, which Tendulkar Big Show” after receiving a mil- Haddin during is complete rubbish,” Maxwell stands lion dollar Indian Premier League the third added. alongside contract in 2013 just a few months ODI against “That is probably the toughest the ICC after his international debut. England in thing to deal with, when people CWC 2011 That and his flamboyant bat- Sydney, in this don’t really understand you and ting have attracted the ire of have a crack at you for being trophy January, 2014 some in Australia, including something different,” he said. during a file photo. promotional former test skipper Kim Hughes ‘I don’t want to be known as event in who branded his Test perform- The Big Show or anything like Mumbai, ance against Pakistan last year told reporters in Adelaide hurts. And I don’t really under- that. I just want to be known as as “diabolical”. yesterday. stand that. Every time I have ever an integral part of Australian yesterday. “Sometimes it hits pretty close “People are saying that I’m an played for whatever team, I have cricket that is hopefully going to to home and you sometimes think egocentric show-off who doesn’t always tried to win the game for take us to a World Cup,” the all- it’s a personal attack,” Maxwell care for the team sometimes that my team and have the team’s rounder added. REUTERS South Africa play down Cup hype

WELLINGTON: South Africa format.” Australia and India fill “We understand the kind of best teams in the world,” he said. skipper AB de Villiers admits the top two rankings followed by pressure that’s on us, and we want “We’ve beaten the Aussies not the Proteas are one of the form South Africa and Sri Lanka ahead to take the trophy back home.” too long ago in Zimbabwe, so to sides going into the World Cup of the tournament which opens on South Africa have compiled an have that kind of confidence that but he is reluctant to talk up his February 14 in New Zealand and impressive one-day record over we can be the best team in the team’s chances. Australia. the past year, though they were world, and at the tournament “We’ve been the favourites The farewell message to the beaten 4-1 in a series against we’ve got the opportunity to prove before in the tournament. It South Af0ricans from their Australia three months ago. it, gives us a great opportunity.” didn’t work out for us,” he said Sports Minister Fikile Mbalula They have won ODI series De Villiers said the biggest les- yesterday in Christchurch where was to not become “a bunch of against India, Sri Lanka, son he has learned from South South Africa will complete their losers”, which de Villiers took as Zimbabwe, New Zealand and the Africa’s previous World Cup fail- preparations. government pressure to win. West Indies, as well as taking a ures -- three semi-finals from six “I’m not really sure if (favour- “We understand that and obvi- tri-series competition involving appearances -- is not to over-hype ite) is a title that deserves a lot ously there’s pressure that comes Australia and Zimbabwe. the occasion. “It’s just another of time and a lot of talking about, with comments like that, but we De Villiers is proud of what tournament. It’s an important South African players celebrate the ODI win against Pakistan in Sharjah but look, obviously the Aussies don’t mind that,” he said, adding South Africa have achieved. event, but it’s just another tour- Cricket Stadium in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates, in this October 2013 are the number one in the world that regardless of the hype the “There’s no hiding from that nament. That’s probably the big- file photo. at the moment in the shorter Proteas were desperate to win. fact. We enjoy being one of the gest lesson that I’ve learnt.” AFP SUNDAY 8 FEBRUARY 2015 26 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com SPORT

FROM LEFT: Jos Evens, Sheikh Khalid bin Ali Al Thani, Ahmed Al Humeidi and Eddy Merckx pose for a group picture, yesterday in Doha. RIGHT: Merckx (right) speaks to rider Peter Sagan on the sidelines of the press conference. PICTURES BY: SALIM MATRAMKOT

Tour of Qatar Teams ASTANA Country: Kazakhstan. Status: WorldTour Boonen prepares for Team: Lieuwe Westra (Ned), Ruslan Tleubayev (Kaz), Andrea Guardini (Ita), Dmitriy Gruzdev (Kaz), Andriy Grivko (Ukr), Laurens de Vreese (Bel), Borut Bozic (Slo), Lars Boom (Ned). BARDIANI-CSF Country: Italy. Status: Pro Continental Team: Simone Sterbini (Ita), Luca Sterbini (Ita), Paolo Simion (Ita), Nicola Ruffoni (Ita), Stefano Pirazzi (Ita), Andrea Piechele (Ita), Nicola Boem (Ita), Enrico Battglin (Ita). BMC RACING Wiggins test in Qatar Country: United States. Status: WorldTour Team: Rick Zabel (Ger), Peter Velits (Svk), Greg van Avermaet (Bel), Ben Hermans (Bel), Philippe Gilbert (Bel), Jean-Pierre Drucker (Lux), Alessandro De Marchi (Ita), Marcus Burghardt (Ger). Tour of Qatar starts in Dukhan today with 141 riders in fray BORA-ARGON 18 Country: Germany. Status: Pro Continental BY RIZWAN REHMAT Team: Paul Voss (Ger), Scott Thwaites (GB), Michael Schwarzmann (Ger), Daniel Schorn (Aut), Ralf Matzka (Ger), Zakkari Dempster (Aus), Sam Bennett (Irl), Shane Archbold (NZ). DOHA: Tom Boonen’s COFIDIS unmatched pedigree at the Tour Country: France. Status: Pro Continental of Qatar will be put to the test Team: Jonas Ahlstrand (Swe), Nacer Bouhanni (Fra), Steve Chainel (Fra), Cyril Lemoine (Fra), against Tour de France winner Adrien Petit (Fra), Dominique Rollin (Can), Florian Senechal (Fra), Geoffrey Soupe (Fra). Bradley Wiggins when the two ETIXX - QUICK-STEP launch their new cycling season Country: Belgium. Status: WorldTour in the opening stage at Dukhan Beach today. Team: Martin Velits (Svk), Stijn Vandenbergh (Bel), Guillaume van Keirsbulck (Bel), Matteo Boonen, winner of four Tour of Trentin (Ita), Niki Terpstra (Ned), Nikolas Maes (Bel), Iljo Keisse (Bel), Tom Boonen (Bel). Qatar titles, yesterday said expe- FDJ.FR rienced Wiggins presented a dan- Country: France. Status: WorldTour ger to all the 141 riders competing Team: Yoann Offredo (Fra), Johan le Bon (Fra), Matthieu Ladagnous (Fra), Murilo Fischer (Bra), at the six-day event. Arnaud Demare (Fra), Mikael Delage (Fra), David Boucher (Bel), William Bonnet (Fra). “No, Bradley’s a very good over- GIANT-ALPECIN all rider,” Boonen said when asked Country: Germany. Status: WorldTour if he held any advantage over the 34-year-old British rival. Team: Tom Veelers (Ned), Albert Timmer (Ned), Tom Stamsnijder (Ned), Ramon Sinkeldam “He can ride in echelons, he can (Ned), Georg Preidler (Aut), Marcel Kittel (Ger), Bert de Backer (Bel), Nikias Arndt (Ger). ride on cobblestones so it won’t be IAM CYCLING a problem for him and for sure we Country: Switzerland. Status: WorldTour will try to drop him every time we Team: Jonas van Genechten (Bel), Vicente Reynes (Esp), Roger Kluge (Ger), Reto Hollenstein can,” the Etixx Quick-Step giant (Sui), Heinrich Haussler (Aus), Dries Devenyns (Bel), Matthias Brandle (Aut), Marcel Aregger (Sui). said. KATUSHA Boonen, 34, won the Tour of Country: Russia. Status: WorldTour Qatar in 2006, 2008, 2009 and Team: Gatis Smukulis (Lat), Luca Paolini (Ita), Viacheslav Kuznetsov (Rus), Alexander Kristoff 2012. The affable Belgian has won (Nor), Dmitriy Kozontchuk (Rus), Marco Haller (Aut), Jacopo Guarnieri (Ita), Sven Eril Bystrom 22 stages in the desert to lay his (Nor). dominance over rivals. “For sure he (Wiggins) will ride LAMPRE-MERIDA a good time trial. It’s going to be Rider Peter Sagan (left) speaks at a press conference on the eve of the Tour of Qatar as four-time winner Tom Country: Italy. Status: WorldTour difficult. He is one of the contend- Boonen looks on, yesterday in Doha. Team: Nelson Oliveira (Por), Filippo Pozzato (Ita), Ruben Plaza (Esp), Manuele Mori (Ita), Sacha ers this year. I just spoke about Modolo (Ita), Roberto Ferrari (Ita), Mario Costa (Por), Matteo Bono (Ita). him. It will be hard. He’s always MOVISTAR in the first group,” Boonen said. Country: Spain. Status: WorldTour The Belgian, who became a Team: Alejandro Valverde (Esp), Pablo Lastras (Esp), Andrey Amador (Cos), Jasha Sutterlin (Ger), father to twin girls Valentine Jose Joaquin Rojas (Esp), Enrique Sanz (Esp), Imanol Erviti (Esp), Fran Ventoso (Esp). and Jacqueline, said luck played MTN-QHUBEKA an important part if one wanted to enjoy a clean race in Qatar. Country: South Africa. Status: Pro Continental “Qatar changes every day. Team: Jaco Venter (RSA), Johann van Zyl (RSA), Kristian Sbaragli (Ita), Youcef Reguigui (Alg), Every time we come here we Gerald Ciolek (Ger), Theo Bos (Ned), Edvald Boasson Hagen (Nor). see changes, the roads change,” British cyclist ORICA-GREENEDGE Boonen said. Bradley Wiggins of Country: Australia. Status: WorldTour “Knowing the roads is one thing the Team Sky team Team: Svein Tuft (Can), Jens Mouris (Ned), Brett Lancaster (Aus), Jens Keukeleire (Bel), Leigh but it is not really an advantage. waits at the start Howard (Aus), Mathew Hayman (Aus), Mitchell Docker (Aus), Adam Blythe (GB). It is just a race that suits me well. of the 78th Plouay TEAM SKY “That’s an advantage but you Grand Prix cycling have to be lucky as well. I have Country: Great Britain. Status: WorldTour race in the western Team: Sir Bradley Wiggins (GB), Chris Sutton (Aus), Ian Stannard (GB), Luke Rowe (GB), Danny been second a few times. I’ve had French town of flat tyres in the final stages so it Pate (USA), Christian Knees (Ger), Andy Fenn (GB), Bernhard Eisel (Aut). Plouay in this file is possible that something might TINKOFF-SAXO picture of August happen,” he explained. Country: Russia. Status: WorldTour 31, 2014. “This field is very strong so we Team: Nikolay Trusov (Rus), Peter Sagan (Svk), Michael Morkov (Den), Chris Juul-Jensen (Den), have a big battle ahead of us,” he Pavel Brutt (Rus), Matti Breschel (Den), Maciej Bodnar (Pol), Jesper Hansen (Den). added. TOPSPORT VLAANDEREN-BALOISE Boonen said winning in Qatar Country: Belgium. Status: Pro Continental had served him well in past seasons. Team: Jelle Wallays (Bel), Pieter Vanspeybrouck (Bel), Jef van Meirhaeghe (Bel), Gijs van Hoecke “I want to try to keep win- (Bel), Preben van Hecke (Bel), Jarl Salomein (Bel), Tom Declerq (Bel), Victor Campenaerts (Bel). ning as much as possible from TREK FACTORY RACING the start. The years I have won Country: United States. Status: WorldTour Team: Danny van Poppel (Ned), Boy van Poppel (Ned), Jasper Stuyven (Bel), Gert Steegmans (Bel), Gregory Rast (Sui), Yaroslab Popovych (Ukr), Markel Irizar (Esp), Fabian Cancellara (Sui). Tour of Qatar in Qatar I have had a very good “I am still very, very well. I had intermediates sprints it depends season,” Boonen said. “It is not a good winter. I prepared really as we don’t take them straight Quote Stages secret. Last time we came sec- well. It just became a father so away. Normally we wait for the ond in team. We also had very that’s extra motivation. I think first stage classification to sort “The target here is to try and race hard and have a good time trial, Stage 1: Sunday, February 8 - Dukhan to good spring classics. If you are we will have a nice week here,” the plans out. If you can take two but it’s hard to predict for the TT at this time of year because we’re Sealine Beach - 136km well here you will perform well Boonen said. or three seconds, it all counts,” on road bikes. I just want to put myself in the best position possible to Stage 2: Monday, February 9 - Al Wakra to in other races as well,” he added. The Belgian said being away he added. do the best ride and see what happens. If it lands you in half-decent Al Khor Corniche - 194.5km “There not many tactics from his family was ‘hard’. The Etixx Quick-Step giant GC spot, you just try and defend it. It’s so up and down here and it Stage 3: Tuesday, February 10 - Losail to involved in Qatar. Just echelons “It was difficult to get away. said Qatar presented a ‘unique’ only takes one day to miss an echelon if it’s windy. I think it’s that and just trying to break every Normally I don’t mind getting challenge. Losail - 10.9km individual time trial mindset with going forward for the classics. It’s about commitment time,” he said. away from home but now it is “You don’t have such conditions Stage 4: Wednesday, February 11 - Al and as I said it’s not just about getting the training miles in here. It’s Thakhira to Mesaieed - 165.5km Boonen said he had arrived well difficult. But I am in touch with anywhere in the world. If you are prepared. “(I am in) pretty good home,” Boonen said. good you will be in front. In the that whole classics mindset now and with no Tour further down the Stage 5: Thursday, February 12 - Al Zubara form. We had three good training Boonen said every second years I have won in Qatar I have line it all starts here.” Fort to Madinat Al Shamal - 153km camps already. We start tomor- scored would eventually matter in done well in the season. Classics Sir Bradley Wiggins Stage 6: Friday, February 13 - Sealine row. It is time to start,” Boonen the end. “Every second we can get are not far away, he said. Source: www.cyclingnews.com Beach Resort to Doha Corniche - 124.5km said. is a second. Normally (in the) two THE PENINSULA SUNDAY 8 FEBRUARY 2015 SPORT www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 27

Nasser Saleh Al Attiyah, winner of the Qatar International Rally, cel- ebrates on the podium during the awards ceremony at QMMF headquarters in Doha yesterday. RIGHT: Nasser Saleh Al Attiyah in action at the Qatar International Rally. PICTURES BY: KAMMUTTY VP Qatar’s Nasser makes it a dozen Dakar Rally winner reigns supreme at Qatar Rally, compatriot Khalifa finishes third

DOHA: Qatar’s rally star Nasser Saleh Al Attiyah con- firmed a record-breaking dusty dozen wins in the QMMF Qatar International Rally, round one of the 2015 FIA Middle East Rally Championship, which drew to a conclusion in Doha yesterday. The defending regional cham- pion and his French navigator Matthieu Baumel won all but two of the 12 special stages in their Ford Fiesta RRC and control- led the pace of the rally from the start. Baumel duly earned his fourth MERC success and Al-Attiyah’s 12th win at home in 13 years also marked his 55th career MERC win. The recent Dakar Rally win- ner is now just five Middle East rallies short of the 60 wins set by Dubai’s Mohammed Ben Sulayem between 1984 and 2002. “It’s obviously always a special feeling to win here in Qatar and to make a winning start to the defence of my Middle East title was important,” said Al Attiyah. “It’s been a great start to the year, with the win in Dakar and Qatar International Rally winner Nasser Saleh Al Attiyah, (third right) and co-driver Matthieu Baumel (third left), pose for a group picture along with my 12th win on this rally. But second place winner Khalid Al Qassimi and co-driver Chris Patterson, and third place finisher Khalifa Al Attiyah and Adel Hussein. RIGHT: Nasser Quotes this is a busy season and I must Saleh Al Attiyah celebrates his win with Nasser bin Khalifa Al Attiyah, President of Qatar Motor and Motorcycling Federation (QMMF). remain focused and take each Qatar’s Nasser Saleh Al event as it comes.” Attiyah Saudi Arabia’s Yazeed Al Rajhi second stage with a broken front After two time consuming Ford Fiesta RRC. Salah Bin restarted under Rally2 and “It’s obviously always a and Ulster co-driver Michael Orr drive shaft and lost even more wheel changes on Friday, Qatar’s Eidan’s mechanics worked hard reached the finish in fifth over- special feeling to win here needed to finish the event to get time on the 10th special. But Al Abdulaziz Al Kuwari and Irish to repair his Mitsubishi’s broken all. Qatar’s Abdullah Al Kuwari off to a clean start in their chal- Rajhi’s demise played into the team mate Killian Duffy found a suspension on Friday evening and Irish team mate Enda Sherry in Qatar and to make a lenge for the regional title and Emirati’s hands and the Abu good pace on the first two specials and the Kuwaiti was able to fin- struggled to seventh after a cat- winning start to the defence they were on course for the run- Dhabi driver snatched an unlikely of the final day. But they hit ter- ish in fourth position and confirm alogue of problems and a deter- of my Middle East title was ner-up spot until rear suspension second place, albeit 5min 53.20sec minal engine trouble on the 10th maximum points in the Group mined Edith Weiss came home important.” damage intervened on the penul- behind Al Attiyah at the finish. stage and retired after moving N Trophy. The Iranian pairing eighth with her Greek co-driver “It’s been a great start to timate Salwa stage. “I suppose after the time I lost into third place after stage nine. of Ali Mesgarha and Vahidreza Vicky Psarakis and won the the year, with the win in Abu Dhabi Racing’s Sheikh with the tyre on Friday, the best The Qatari duo of Khalifa Al Vahdatinikzad put in an impres- Ladies’ category for the second Khalid Al Qassimi and Ulster co- I could hope for was second place Attiyah and Adel Hussein proved sive showing on their Qatar year running. Dakar and my 12th win on driver Chris Patterson began the and I am quite happy with that that it is possible to climb back to debut to finish sixth and second Kuwait hosts the second round this rally. But this is a busy day in third in the only Citroën under the circumstances. It was the podium from a Rally2 situa- in Group N. of the 2015 FIA Middle East Rally season and I must remain DS3 RRC on the entry list, but important to score points here,” tion and they reached the finish Qatar’s Khalid Al Suwaidi Championship on March 12-14. focused and take each they dropped a minute on the said Al Qassimi. in a fine third place in another and Irish co-driver John Higgins THE PENINSULA event as it comes.”

Khalid Al Qassimi of Ashkanani dominates Abu Dhabi Racing Team “I suppose after the time I lost with the tyre on Friday, the best I could hope for was second place and I am at Porsche Cup in Doha quite happy with that under the circumstances. It was DOHA: Kuwait’s Zaid important to score points Ashkanani made it two wins out here.” of two in Qatar as he once again led from start to finish in Race 2 of Round 4 of the Porsche 2015 QMMF Qatar GT3 Cup Challenge at Losail International Circuit. International Rally With the twin wins Ashkanani Final positions reduced the gap between him and 1. Nasser Saleh Al Attiyah (QAT)/Matthieu the series leader Clemens Schmid Baumel (FRA) Ford Fiesta RRC 2hr 12min down to six points at the top of 10.1sec the drivers’ standings. 2. Khalid Al Qassimi (ARE)/Chris Patterson (GBR) Round 4 represented the sym- Citroën DS3 RRC 2hr 18min 03.3sec bolic start of the second half of the 3. Khalifa Al Attiyah (QAT)/Adel Hussein (QAT) season with the drivers once again Ford Fiesta RRC 2hr 27min 00.0sec being tested on the floodlit track 4. Salah bin Eidan (KUW)/Vili Oslaj (SLO) just a night after Race 1 which, Mitsubishi Lancer Evo IX 2hr 40min 30.3sec in a rare turn of events, finished 5. Khalid Al Suwaidi (QAT)/John Higgins (IRL) with the same top three drivers Ford Fiesta RRC 2hr 46min 15.0sec on the podium in exactly the same 6. Ali Mesgarha (IRN)/Vahidreza Vahdatinikzad positions; Clemens Schmid of Al (IRN) Subaru Impreza 2hr 55min 42.9sec Nabooda was second with Fahad 7. Abdullah Al-Kuwari (QAT)/Enda Sherry (IRL) Algosaibi of Classic Arabia third. Ford Fiesta R5 3hr 08min 02.1sec Despite practicing in the warm Zaid Ashkanani, winner of Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East. 8. Edith Weiss (GER)/Vicky Psarakis (GRE) Doha sun, the racers qualified and Mitsubishi Lancer Evo IX 3hr 28min 10.3sec competed in night conditions mak- Drivers’ positions after round 1 ing Qatar one of the most techni- posted the fastest time of the found his power in the later laps 1. Nasser Saleh AlAttiyah (QAT) 25pts cally challenging races in the series. entire weekend in qualifying, and built a healthy advantage 2. Khalid Al Qassimi (ARE) 18pts After winning in almost iden- and proceeded to show real rac- to take the chequered flag with 3. Khalifa Al Attiyah (QAT) 15pts tical conditions the day before ing talent as he defended his posi- room to spare. The win means 4. Salah bin Eidan (KUW) 12pts Ashkanani won two races in a tion from Fahad Algosaibi and Ashkanani now sits six points 5. Khalid Al Suwaidi (QAT) 10pts Qatar International Rally winner Nasser Saleh Al Attiyah (right) of Qatar row for the first time since joining Clemens Schmid. With the pair behind Schmid in the overall 6. Ali Mesgarha (IRN) 8pts and third place finisher Khalifa Al Attiyah, also of Qatar, pose with their the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge behind seeming to have a little championship with four more 7. Abdullah Al Kuwari (QAT) 6pts trophies during the awards ceremony. Middle East almost three years more pace than Ashkanani in the races to go in the season. ago. Ahead of Race 2 the Kuwaiti early stages, the young Kuwaiti THE PENINSULA 8. Edith Weiss (GER) 4pts Sunday 8 February 2015 19 Rabial II 1436 Volume 19 Number 6335 Sport Price: QR2 Leading newspaper from Nepal Atletico thrash Qatar’s Real 4-0 in Nasser makes

      Madrid derby it a dozen

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www.thepeninsulaqatar.com [email protected] | [email protected] Editorial: 44557741 | Advertising: 44557837 / 44557780 2016 world roads route, logo unveiled Special 19km circuit for the event will snake through Katara, all the way to The Pearl

BY RIZWAN REHMAT “It is a great honour and pleas- ure for me to announce the details DOHA: The Qatar Cycling of the World Championship,” he Federation (QCF) yesterday said. unveiled the event route and “Since 1921, the UCI has been the logo of the UCI Road World organising the Road World Championships 2016 which will Championships. It is an annual be held in Doha next year. event staged in one of the world’s QCF President Sheikh Khalid cities chosen by the international bin Ali Al Thani was joined by institution through a bidding cycling legend Eddy Merckx, John process similar to the process of Lelangue and Amani Al Dosari at choosing the host of the Olympic the unveiling ceremony. Games,” Sheikh Khalid said. The event will start on October “The first edition in 1921 was 9 with trade team time trials and hosted by Denmark. Since then, conclude on October 16, Sheikh no country from the Middle East Khalid announced. had been selected to host the championships. “Qatar will be the first country in the Arab World and the Middle East to host the championships in 2016. It will also be the sec- FROM LEFT: CEO of the 2016 Road World Championships Amani Al Dosari, QCF President Sheikh Khalid bin Ali Al Thani, cycling legend Eddy Merckx ond country in Asia after Japan, and QCF’s Director of Sport Operations John Lelangue at a press conference in Doha yesterday. PICTURE: SALIM MATRAMKOT which hosted it in 1990,” he added. Lelangue said the road races for “It will look nice. Nothing like honour, but also a huge respon- remember,” he added. “This will courses of the Doha event will be the elite athletes would be staged Paris-Roubaix or the Tour of sibility for Qatar to host the UCI be another precious opportunity presented at this year’s Worlds in on an 80km loop in the desert. Flanders, but we will have every- Road World Championships 2016,” for Qatar to consolidate its image Richmond. A special 19km circuit will thing in place,” he said. Sheikh Khalid said. as a sport hub and further prove “We don’t want to reveal all snake through Katara — the city’s The route map has already “With the participation of more its ability and competence with plans. Let’s wait until September,” cultural centre — all the way to been shown to world body UCI, than 1,000 athletes from 75 coun- regard to its long experience and he said. The event logo of the UCI Road The Pearl, Lelangue said. Lelangue said. tries, 450,000 spectators, and mil- knowhow in successfully organis- Sheikh Khalid later launched World Championship 2016. The Katara route will include “Being the first Arab and lions of TV viewers all over the ing top events,” he said. the event website. cobblestones, he added. Middle East country, is a great world, this will be an event to Lelangue said the time trial THE PENINSULA