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TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 JAMADA ALTHANI 18, 1436 AH www.kuwaittimes.net Kuwait marks Yemen clashes Skype meets Djokovic World Health kill more theatre in Syria overpowers Day with focus than 100 as twist on Romeo Murray for fifth on food5 safety aid delayed7 and40 Juliet Miami20 title Obama promises ‘tough Min 21º Max 34º conversation’ with Gulf High Tide 01:40 & 13:35 Low Tide Iran nuke deal ‘once in a lifetime’ opportunity 07:40 & 20:15 40 PAGES NO: 16483 150 FILS

WASHINGTON: US President Barack Obama said he News would have a “tough conversation” with America’s Gulf in brief Arab allies in which he would promise strong US support against external enemies but tell them they must address internal political challenges. In an interview with KAC reassures on New York Times columnist Thomas Friedman published safety measures on Sunday, he said he would tell Gulf states they also KUWAIT: Kuwait Airways yesterday reaffirmed that all needed to be more active in addressing regional crises. “I its aircraft are equipped with collision prevention radars think when you look at what happens in Syria, for exam- and pilots are trained to act professionally if another ple, there’s been a great desire for the United States to plane approaches a KAC plane in the skies. The reassur- get in there and do something,” he said in the interview, ance came after a Kuwait Airways plane nearly collided conducted on Saturday. with another aircraft over Pakistani airspace on Sunday. “But the question is: Why is it that we can’t have Arabs KAC, in a statement released late on Sunday, said the fighting the terrible human rights abuses that have been aircraft radar of KU flight 205 heading to Islamabad was perpetrated, or fighting against what Assad has done?” activated when a Singaporean aircraft in the air he added, referring to Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad. approached the Kuwaiti plane. The pilot reacted proper- Obama said last week he would meet the leaders of the ly and evaded it, it added. The Kuwaiti plane was flying six Gulf Cooperation Council states this spring at his at an altitude of 33,000 feet when the radar emitted the Camp David retreat outside Washington, partly to dis- warning. Simultaneously, Pakistani air traffic control cuss their concerns about the emerging nuclear agree- permitted the Singaporean aircraft to elevate its flying ment with Iran. course from 28,000 feet to 34,000 feet, thus causing the The GCC includes Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the United radar on the Kuwaiti plane to emit the warning. Arab Emirates (UAE), Qatar, Oman and Bahrain. Saudi Arabia, which sees Iran as its main regional rival, has repeatedly hinted that it would seek its own atomic Aayan seeks to weapons if Tehran ever did the same. Gulf states are part reschedule debt of the US-led coalition campaigning against Islamic KUWAIT: Kuwait investment firm Aayan Leasing State militants who have taken over large parts of Syria and Iraq. Obama said he wanted to discuss with the Gulf and Investment has asked creditors to reschedule WASHINGTON: US President Barack Obama reacts to scoring against Caroline Wozniacki, a Danish profes- its remaining debts worth KD 176 million ($587 allies how to build more effective defense capabilities sional player, as he plays tennis during the White House Easter Egg Roll on the tennis court on the South and assure them of US support against outside attack. million), the chairman told reporters yesterday. Lawn of the White House yesterday. — AP Like many investment companies in the state, Continued on Page 13 Aayan was hit hard by 2008 global financial crisis that forced Aayan to restructure part of its debt burden, which helped reduce its obligations from Nod to establish new KD 333 million in 2012 to KD 176 million currently. The company is now seeking to reschedule the remaining debts, Chairman Fahd Ali Al-Ghanim said at the firm’s annual general assembly meet- human rights ‘diwan’ ing, “after the Central Bank eased rules - compared with 2012 - allowing repaying debts over an extended period of time”. As part of the restructur- Assembly panel debates electronic voting ing plan, Aayan planned to liquidate some of its portfolio of listed Kuwaiti companies, Ghanim By B Izzak In another development, the public utilities committee said. However, many of the shares are still trading yesterday discussed with a number of ministries a proposal below the value at which they were bought, KUWAIT: The National Assembly’s human rights committee to implement electronic voting in parliamentary election, Ghanim said, adding this helped to explain why yesterday approved the final draft of a law calling to establish head of the committee said. MP Adel Al-Khorafi said the pro- the National Diwan for Human Rights, an independent body posal does not scrap manual voting, which has been the only Aayan was seeking a further debt rescheduling. to be supervised by the government, the head of the com- means of voting since the first election in 1962. He said both mittee said. The rights diwan will have a board of directors the methods will be implemented if electronic voting is consisting of 11 members in addition to representatives of approved. Saudi policeman the ministries of foreign affairs, justice, interior, social affairs The ministers of interior, justice and state minister for killed during raid and labor, the manpower authority and the government’s Cabinet affairs attended the meeting, which focused on the RIYADH: A Saudi policeman was shot dead and three legal department, MP Abdulhameed Dashti said. technical matters of the process. The committee also decided were wounded during a raid which devolved into a gun The president and vice-president of the diwan will be to invite MP Saadoun Hammad to its meeting next week to battle in the eastern Saudi city of Awamiya on Sunday, appointed on a fulltime basis by Amiri decrees after their discuss his proposal that the ministry of electricity and water state news agency SPA said. “An exchange of fire led to nomination by the government and approval of the should not cut off water supplies of consumers without a the injury of Corporal Majid bin Turki Al-Qahtani, and his Assembly. The 14-article bill stipulates that the establishment court ruling. death after being taken to hospital - may God have mer- of the rights diwan aims at protecting human rights and pro- The Assembly’s interior and defense committee mean- cy on him and accept him as a martyrs - and wounded moting and consolidating public and private freedoms in while discussed with Interior Minister Sheikh Mohammad Al- four Asian workers three security men, a citizen, and a (foreign) resident,” accordance with the Kuwaiti constitution and international Khaled Al-Sabah a government-sponsored bill to install sur- with moderate wounds, SPA said. The agency said forces treaties signed by Kuwait. veillance cameras in some public places. Head of the com- killed in collision undertook the search against “terrorist elements” and Dashti said copies of the draft have been sent to various mittee MP Abdullah Al-Maayouf said the panel decided to retrieved automatic weapons, pistols and communica- ministries for revision and comments and that a meeting will complete the discussion on the bill next week. Maayouf said By Hanan Al-Saadoun tion equipment. It added that four Saudis were arrested be held on April 14 to hear the final comments of concerned the committee voted on a number of amendments to the after the firefight for targeting the officers. Tension is parties on the bill. The lawmaker said that the committee national service law - the compulsory military service law - KUWAIT: Four Asian workers were instantly killed on growing in the country’s oil-rich Eastern province, one of decided to invite Saleh Al-Fadhalah, the head of the govern- before it comes up for the second round of voting today. Fahaheel Expressway after a company bus full of ment’s central agency for illegal residents, the government’s MP Nabeel Al-Fadhl meanwhile yesterday called on the the main centres of the Shiite community in majority workers ploughed into a bulldozer sitting in the term for stateless people or bedoons,. He said that the com- interior ministry to appoint Kuwaiti women as mukhtars Sunni Muslim Saudi Arabia, as neighboring Yemen, Iraq ‘safety lane’ near Mina Abdullah yesterday, said mittee will discuss with Fadhalah the human rights situation (mayors), saying that women have already been appointed security sources. and Syria contend with violent sectarian conflict. of bedoons and the process of naturalization. as ministers and a number of them elected as MPs. Rolling Stone retracts Saudis seek Pak jets, ships, troops rape story, apologizes ISLAMABAD: Saudi Arabia has asked Pakistan for mili- tary aircraft, warships and soldiers, Pakistani Defense LOS ANGELES: Rolling Stone magazine Minister Khawaja Asif said yesterday, at the start of a par- has retracted a controversial story liamentary debate on whether Pakistan should get about a gang rape at the University of involved in a Saudi-led campaign in Yemen. Saudi Arabia, Virginia following a withering study by the Gulf’s main Sunni Muslim power, has asked Sunni- the Columbia University School of majority Pakistan to join a Saudi-led military coalition Journalism that faulted its reporting, that began conducting air strikes last month against editing and fact-checking. The study largely Shiite Houthi forces in Yemen. argues that the magazine failed to Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has hedged his bets. He adhere to “basic, even routine journalis- has repeatedly said he will defend any threat to Saudi tic practice” adding that it is “a story of Arabia’s “territorial integrity” without defining what journalistic failure that was avoidable”. threat, or what action. “Saudi Arabia has asked for com- The story’s writer, Sabrina Rubin bat planes, warships and soldiers,” Asif said, without spec- Erdely, is criticized for not seeking third ifying where Saudi wanted them deployed. Arif Rafiq, a party corroboration for many parts of Washington-based adjunct scholar with the Middle East her story, while Rolling Stone managing NEW YORK: Columbia Journalism Institute, said earlier Pakistan was hoping to satisfy Saudi editor Will Dana and Sean Woods, the School’s academic dean Sheila expectations at a “minimal” level. “They’re unlikely to be principle editor on the piece, are Coronel and dean Steve Coll hold a part of any meaningful action inside Yemen,” he told reproached for not pushing Erdely to news conference yesterday. — AP Reuters. “Maybe they will reinforce the border.” nail down key details. They were guilty, and resources to stories that challenge Sharif owes the Saudis. Endemic tax dodging means the study argues, of “conformation bias”, authority and investigate stories about Pakistan needs regular injections of foreign cash to avoid and were not sufficiently skeptical sexual violence. “There is clearly a need economic meltdown. Last year, the Saudis gave Pakistan when holes began to appear in the rec- for a more considered understanding $1.5 billion. Saudi Arabia also sheltered Sharif after he ollections of their primary source. and debate among journalists and oth- was overthrown in a 1999 military coup. But joining the The report goes on to say that ers about the best practices for report- Saudi-led coalition could inflame a sectarian conflict at Rolling Stone’s failure could have a chill- ing on rape survivors, as well as on sex- home where about a fifth of the population is Shiite and ing effect on magazines and other pub- ual assault allegations that have not attacks on Shiites are increasing, further destabilizing the WAH, Pakistan: Pakistani Army chief General Raheel Sharif tries a rifle on his vis- lications’ willingness to commit time Continued on Page 13 nuclear-armed nation of 180 million people. Continued on Page 13 it to the Pakistan Ordnance Factories yesterday. — AFP LOCAL TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015

Saudi cabinet hails outcome of Kuwait III

RIYADH: The Saudi cabinet on Monday com- mended the outcomes of the Third International Humanitarian Pledging Conference for Syria recently held in Kuwait. This came during a cabi- net meeting held yesterday, which addressed other major regional and international issues. The Kingdom has spared no effort to provide aid to Syrian refugees, the Cabinet said in a statement carried by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) after its session chaired by King Salman bin Abdulaziz. Since 2011, the Kingdom has offered Syrian people aid worth $600 million, it added. On Yemen, the cabinet stressed that the Kingdom is not calling for war, and that the Saudi-led coalition’s “Operation Decisive Storm” in Yemen aims at maintaining legitimacy, securi- ty, national unity, independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country. These are KUWAIT: His Highness the Deputy Amir and Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah is pictured with Minister of Justice, Awqaf and Islamic Affairs Yaqoub Al- the reasons why the legitimacy-defending coali- Sane, as well as the visiting Algerian Minister of Justice Al-Tayeb Louh and his accompanying delegation. — KUNA tion has been gaining wide Arab, Islamic and international support, it pointed out. Referring to the recent deal between the Crown Prince receives Algerian Justice Minister world powers and Iran on Tehran’s nuclear pro- KUWAIT: His Highness the Deputy Amir Islamic Affairs Yaqoub Al-Sane, as well as Adviser Khaled Abdullah Boodai, and HH meeting. HH Sheikh Nawaf also received gram, the cabinet hoped a final binding agree- and Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad the visiting Algerian Minister of Justice Al- the Crown Prince’s Office Undersecretary for the outgoing Cambodian Ambassador to ment would be concluded to enhance security, Al-Jaber Al-Sabah received at Seif Palace Tayeb Louh and his accompanying delega- Protocol Affairs Sheikh Mubarak Sabah Al- Kuwait Long Kem, as well as Sheikh Dr and stability in the region, and the world at yesterday Minister of Justice, Awqaf and tion. Acting Minister of Amiri Diwan Affairs, Salem Al-Humoud Al-Sabah attended the Ibrahim Al-Duaij Al-Sabah. — KUNA large.— KUNA Kuwait committed to join intervention efforts in Yemen JEDDAH: Kuwait has initiated with other threats through intensive build-up on the Gulf Cooperating Council (GCC) states pro- borders of the kingdom and performing viding immediate support by all means, military exercises with various medium-cal- including military intervention, to protect iber and heavy weapons. Yemen and its people and install security, On the situation in Syria, the stability and legitimacy as well as defend- Ambassador stressed that the conflict in ing Saudi Arabia in the face of aggression, a Syria will stop only through dialogue and Kuwaiti Foreign Ministry official confirmed through supporting the United Nations yesterday. efforts and its envoy Staffan de Mistura, to This position came as part of the State come up with a political solution based on of Kuwait’s obligations within the frame- the Geneva 1 resolutions that would meet KUWAIT: The empty chair of His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah is seen during yesterday’s Cabinet work of the GCC and the Arab League the aspirations of the Syrian people. He meeting. HH Sheikh Jaber is currently in Germany on a private visit. — KUNA Council, Ambassador Jassem Al-Mubaraki, stressed the need to continue efforts to Director of the Department of International meet the humanitarian needs of the Syrian Organizations at the ministry, said on side- people, recalling the 3rd donor conference lines of the Senior Officials Meeting of the that Kuwait hosted on March 31st. Cabinet ministers briefed Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Regarding the Palestinian issue, the Kuwaiti in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. official emphasized that this cause remains Member states in the legitimate support at the heart of the Muslim world’s concerns, on Obama-Amir call alliance is based on Article 51 of the as Al-Aqsa Mosque still remains under the Charter of the United Nations, article 2 of Zionist occupation. the Charter of the Arab League, Articles 2 and 3 of the joint Arab defense agreement Rejecting terrorism Ministers laud donors’ conference results and Articles 2 and 3 of the joint defense Mubaraki had called one day earlier for agreement of the Gulf Cooperation strengthening culture of tolerance and KUWAIT: Acting Prime Minister and Foreign Syrian people, Sheikh Mohammad Al-Abdullah the meeting was informed of the message His Council, he explained. The intervention rejection of terrorism. Bolstering of culture Minister Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al- said. It also expressed gratitude to the coun- Highness the Amir received from Benin aims to maintain security and stability in of tolerance and rejection of terrorism are Sabah briefed cabinet ministers yesterday on a tries that took part in the humanitarian event. President Thomas Boni Yayi on boosting bilater- the Gulf Cooperation Council as an integral importance amidst unprecedented chal- phone call between US President Barack Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled, who chaired the al relations in all fields. responsibility that lies on all the GCC coun- lenges facing the Muslim world, he said. Obama and His Highness the Amir Sheikh meeting held at Seif Palace, briefed the cabinet It was also notified of two other messages tries, he added. One of the major challenges, he added, Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah. The ministers were on the outcomes of the donors’ conference, HH the Amir received from President of the The events in Yemen have destabilized was surfacing of gangs who were killing also briefed on a call between US State which was held March 31, 2015 to bolster European Commission Jean-Claude Juncker security and tampered with its stability due people under the name of Islam thus tar- Secretary John Kerry and his counterparts from humanitarian support to the Syrian people. and UNESCO Director-General Irina Bokova on to the sinful coup carried out by the Houthi nishing the image of Muslims around the the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Minister of During the conference, HH the Amir assured Kuwait’s leading humanitarian role and the militias against legitimacy represented by world. “This compels us to defend our reli- State for Cabinet Affairs Sheikh Mohammad the Syrian people of the international commu- generous donations made during the Syria President Abed Rabbu Mansour Hadi, he gion,” he added. Abdullah Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah said following nity support. HH the Amir announced $500 mil- pledging conference. said, stressing that this coup has become a Saudi representative to the OIC the cabinet’s weekly meeting. lion in pledge for the Syrian people to help serious threat to the security of Yemen, the Mohammad Tayyeb said challenges facing Kerry briefed the GCC foreign ministers on ease their sufferings, urging the international Sincere efforts region and the international peace and the deal recently concluded in Lausanne, community to seek an end to the tragedy. The cabinet was informed about two mes- security as well. the Muslim World required collaboration of efforts to solve conflicts among OIC mem- Switzerland, between the world powers, P5+1, sages from HH the Amir to HH the Prime bers and sectarian disputes within the and Iran on Tehran’s nuclear program. The US FM meetings Minister Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak Al-Hamad Al- Yemen’s stability chief diplomat reaffirmed Washington’s com- Meanwhile, Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled notified Sabah, appreciating the persistent and sincere The GCC countries worked from the out- country. He said the senior officials would discuss mitment to GCC security and stability. the cabinet of the outcome of his meetings efforts by the Premier and the ministers, as well set to maintain the security and stability of with counterparts from Norway and as other state bodies and officials to secure suc- a draft resolution that would condemn the Yemen through the Gulf initiative and its Pledging conference Luxembourg, Borge Brende and Jean cess for the Third International Humanitarian coup of the Houthis against the legitimate executive mechanisms, which has received The cabinet opened its weekly meeting by Asselborn, who led their countries’ delegations Pledging Conference for Syria. Meanwhile, the leadership in Yemen, as well as supporting international support to get Yemen out of expressing high appreciation to HH the Amir’s to the donors’ conference on Syria, Sheikh cabinet approved an amended draft decree on its ordeal and to avert more bloodshed as the Saudi-led Operation Decisive Storm initiative of hosting the Third International Mohammad Abdullah said. the civil service system, referring it to the HH well as preserve its destiny, he stressed. against the militias. OIC Secretary General Humanitarian Pledging Conference for Syria, Enhancing bilateral ties featured high on the the Amir. The ministers discussed topics on the The Houthi forces and the allied militias Iyad Madani reiterated OIC’s support to the recently held in Kuwait. The cabinet also voiced agenda of the foreign ministers’ talks, besides agenda of the National Assembly, and reports have rejected legitimacy and threatened military campaign against the Houthi mili- thanks to the munificent donations by Kuwaiti the latest regional and international develop- on the current Arab and international political the security and stability of the countries in tias, which was launched at the behest of institutions and individuals to help the afflicted ments. The Cabinet Affairs Minister said that developments. — KUNA the region, particularly the Kingdom of the legitimate leadership to protect the Saudi Arabia and began to implement Yemeni people. —KUNA KRCS delivers Ministry gears up for aid to Syrians

AMMAN: Kuwait Red Crescent Society (KRCS) delivered aid diplomats’ conference supplies to 1,000 Syrian families settled in Jordan, chief of KRCS’s mission in the country said yesterday. Supplies, KUWAIT: Foreign Ministry Undersecretary cussed the ongoing preparations and including clothes, were delivered at the refugee camps in Khaled Al-Jarallah headed a ministerial arrangements for the 8th conference, and Amman, Jarash and Ajloun, Khaled Al-Zaid said. He committee meeting yesterday which dis- issues and subjects on the agenda. The expressed gratitude to donors in Kuwait for dispatching cussed preparations for the conference of Foreign Ministry’s undersecretary then met necessities to the refugees, in coordination with the socie- chiefs of Kuwaiti diplomatic missions, US Ambassador to Kuwait Douglas Silliman, ty. The Kuwaiti humanitarian campaign to relieve the which takes place in Kuwait on April 21-23. and discussed bilateral relations as well as Syrian refugees in the Middle East will continue, in line During the meeting, Jarallah and several the latest regional and international devel- with guidelines of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al- other senior Foreign Ministry officials dis- opments. —KUNA Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. — KUNA

KUWAIT: The Commercial Bank of Kuwait (CBK) visited the Sadeem Elementary School for Boys in Mubarak Al-Kabeer as part of its ongoing ‘Ya Zain Turathna’ (our beautiful heritage) cultural campaign. TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 LOCAL Private sector financial guarantee regulated

By A Saleh the whole sum if the workers are not paid wages of KD 250 million and a new ministries complex regularly or if employers stop paying them. at a cost of KD 350 million. KUWAIT: The Manpower Public Authority Director Jamal Al-Dousary issued a decision with Hospital tenders GCC alliance a chart regulating financial guarantees for the Hospital construction tenders will once more MP Saleh Ashour said that the GCC alliance private sector. According to the new decision, be offered for public bidding after former public fighting in Yemen has not yet achieved victory in employers hiring new workers from abroad works’ minister Abdulaziz Al-Ibrahim had sus- its battle in there, adding that the alliance has no would have to pay a KD 250 financial guarantee pended them due to their high cost. Informed right to impose any conditions on fighters there. per laborer. The law applies to employers exe- sources said that the new tenders would be “Achieve victory first, then set conditions,” he cuting government projects, employers who offered for public bidding in collaboration with said. The Shiite lawmaker further pointed out bring workers from outside Kuwait after April 1, Central Tenders Committee (CTC), adding that that calling for negotiations was part of politics 2015 and activities the authority sees necessary local and international consortiums will be invit- and the ‘art of debate’ between conflicting par- to deposit such guarantees for. The employers ed. The tenders would include building a pedi- ties in order to spare and save the lives of civil- Heroin smuggling would be mandated to present a bank warranty atric hospital and a maternity hospital at a cost ians, namely women and children, from the evils authorizing the authority to withdraw part of or of KD 200 million each, a police hospital at a cost of war. attempt foiled

KUWAIT: Customs officers at Kuwait smuggle heroin inside a secret place in his International Airport foiled an Asian man’s personal luggage, Saif said. He stressed Bidaa Roundabout attempt to smuggle two kilograms of hero- that the airport’s customs administration in hidden in a secret place inside his per- has the expertise and capabilities support- sonal belongings, said Director General of ing the efforts exerted to fight the spread Kuwait General Administration of Customs of narcotic substances. Inspectors often development mulled Khalid Abdullah Al-Saif yesterday. receive intensive training courses to enable The customs officers at the airport hall them deal with such smuggling threats, he suspected an Asian engineer who tried to pointed out.— KUNA By Meshaal Al-Enezi surrounded by a fascinating ring, he said. avoid accidents and replaced with flyover u- turns. KUWAIT: The Roads Engineering Department at Gulf Road footbridge In my view the Ministry of Public Works is scheduled to exe- Municipal Council member Hassan Kamal Drug possession cute a project this year to develop Al-Bidaa suggested building several footbridges linking A citizen was arrested in Andalus with drugs, Roundabout in a way that would facilitate traffic the seafront with the areas overlooking them in said security sources, noting that a police officer Kuwait a dream country? flows during rush hours, well-informed ministry order to save the lives of pedestrians and resi- noticed the citizen driving his vehicle erratically sources said. dents crossing the Gulf Road. and had to chase and stop him. On checking on In other news, Kuwait Municipality rejected a the suspect, he was found wanted for a five-year Moon, Saturn conjunction proposal by Municipal Council members Kamal jail term. The moon will almost have a conjunction and Abdullah Al-Kandari to allow municipality By Talal Al-Ghannam with Saturn on Wednesday when it is sched- inspectors to enter public and private schools Harassment charges uled to be two degrees closer to it, astronomer for inspection, noting that this already exists in Two Arab expatriates were arrested and Adel Al-Saadoun said. He added that such a bylaws based on the fact that schools are public referred to Andalus police station with charges conjunction is an apparent phenomenon facilities and that inspectors have the right to of sexually harassing a female citizen, said secu- caused by perspective only, since the moon is enter and inspect all facilities dealing with food- rity sources. The two suspects totally denied the nearly 400,000 km away from Earth while stuff. charge and insisted that they had been beaten [email protected] Saturn is 1.2 billion km away from it. Saadoun by two men in army uniforms before they were added that Saturn’s year is equal to 29 Earth Highway development arrested. A case was filed pending further inves- ood morning my honorable read- stops or those passengers in the bus, years, its day is 11 hours long, has 62 satellite Kuwait Municipality stressed that developing tigations. In a separate case, a young citizen liv- ers. In this article, I would like to forcing the public transportation compa- moons and has a diameter of 120,000 km, the Mutlaa-Abdali highway would be done with- ing in Qosour recently reported that an uniden- Gdiscuss the good and bad habits ny to replace the glass windows with compared to Earth’s 12,000 km. Saturn is the in the first phase of the northern regional high- tified robber stole his motorbike from his house’s practiced in Kuwait, and make a little plastic ones (what a pity). second largest planet in the solar system and is way project where all u-turns would be closed to yard. comparison with behaviors seen in civi- Disrespect of foreigners by many lized countries. Kuwait wants to be nationals also shuns away tourists or among the most civilized nations in the investors from coming to Kuwait. For NBK Rewards Program allows world and strives to become a financial example, go to any police station and Crime hub in the region to lure foreign invest- hear the officers or ordinary policemen Report instant points redemption ments. This can only be done if there are yell at the tea boy by calling him ‘ya encouraging signs that would lure the shareka,’ meaning ‘company,’ without KUWAIT: National Bank of Kuwait (NBK) rewarded with up to 20% of their transactions foreign investors or tourists to come here even respecting his name. They call him enhanced its Rewards Program by offering its amount in the form of NBK Rewards Points. and explore such mouth-watering company come here and bring coffee or credit cardholders the ability to redeem their The Point of Sale machines will prompt a opportunities. The first bad habit seen in tea. Is this nice treatment? reward points instantly at the points of sale at message revealing the NBK Rewards balance Kuwait and makes foreign tourists or You could be killed if you cross the all participating outlets in Kuwait. in KD value. NBK Credit Cardholders can investors turn their attention from street from the pedestrian crossing, or Through this new service, NBK credit card- choose to redeem all or some points in their Kuwait away is the road congestion. You over a parking space, inside a hospital, or holders (Visa, MasterCard and Diners Club) balance or accumulate their points. used to travel from Hawally to Salmiya in at a restaurant if you by mistake looked benefit from accumulating points at world- NBK’s leadership in Kuwait has been estab- less than 10 minutes few years back. at someone. You can be beaten if you did renowned fashion, dining and lifestyle brands lished by consistently delivering superior val- Now, you would need an hour to an hour not let a maniac who flashes his or her in Kuwait. The NBK Rewards Program’s new ue to its customers. NBK always strives to and half to reach your destination. Going light behind you to pass. If you are a doc- method is simple and guarantees rewards at develop promotions to reward customers by to work also takes you two hours some- tor, you could be beaten if you adhere to many of the best international and local building on the long-time relationships with times if you don’t leave home early. the proper queue in the hospital. The brands in Kuwait. local and world leading partners and brands. Going out nowadays is becoming a fighting that initiates outside on the road NBK Rewards Program is Kuwait’s largest NBK Credit Cards are accepted worldwide nightmare for all, and many people think can be continued inside the hospital. loyalty program with more than 600 partner and are the safest, most convenient and twice before leaving home to visit a rela- Police are seen guarding many hospitals. outlets across Kuwait encompassing world- rewarding way to pay. For more information tive or even do some groceries as traffic Police cars are sitting still on the freeway, renowned brands in fashion, dining and log onto nbk.com or contact NBK Call Center is so bad and intolerable. The Interior while policemen do nothing but play lifestyle. When using any of NBK credit cards on 1801801, or follow NBK on Twitter and on Ministry is doing nothing to resolve this games on their smart phones as maniacs at participating outlets, customers are Instagram @NBKPage. problem as the ‘wasta’ or connection is drive their cars by like bullets. Many still active in the traffic department, as employers call their maids animals, and Amendments top NA session agenda well as the leniency given to many for- say nothing when their kids yell at the eigners who do not need a car to com- housekeeper as if this was ok to do. KUWAIT: The National Assembly (NA) is due she steps down, or with conclusion of the leg- mute in the first place, such as painters, Insufficient parking space for residential Transformer fire to hold a regular session today with a number islative term. Mudej’s resignation was carpenters, tea boys, etc. Their presence buildings, missing manholes, broken of bills on the table, namely a draft law stipu- approved in a decree issued last March. in the road makes the situation a chaos. roads, flying gravels when two drops of forces evacuation lating amendment of the capital markets law Also on the table is a report by the par- The ministry must be so stiff with this rain fall, arrogance by many youngsters, in addition to re-debating the military service liamentary legislative affairs committee on segment of the society by providing lack of hygiene as many drivers throw law. amending some terms of civil and commer- By Hanan Al-Saadoun them with decent transportation means their leftover food from the car window The parliament is scheduled to withdraw cial proceedings, issued in a decree-into- such as modern buses with free Wi-Fi without any respect to the law and the from the agenda an interpellation motion, law in 1980. Other reports address legal KUWAIT: Firemen evacuated three houses close to a power connection, clean taxi drivers and vehi- cleaner. Look at Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh and addressed to the resigned deputy prime min- issues concerning the Public Authority for transformer that caught fire in Doha. There was heavy cles that do not stink, shady bus stops, the crime rate there. Look at the workers ister and minister of commerce and industry Agriculture and Fish Resources, a new com- smoke in the area and it took nearly an hour to put the fire cheap bus tickets and most importantly, who are left in the desert without any Abdul-Mohsen Al-Mudej from MP Roudhan pany for cattle trade, sports authorities, out. No injuries were reported. specifying the taxi meters fare with rea- decent means of relaxation such as air Al-Roudhan, in line with the bylaw, which sports disputes, formation of shareholding sonable rise to meet the taxi drivers’ just conditioning or heating during the frigid essentially allows that the official to be grilled companies to build power and water demands. winter. Look at the blood suckers who be relieved of the inquiry stand once he or plants. — KUNA Go to Europe and see how nice and humiliate many workers and force them clean the buses are, as well as the bus to pay for their residency every year Four degree quakes in Kuwait stops where sometimes you would without considering their financial bur- dream to sleep in one. In Dubai, the bus dens. Look at the jails that are full of KUWAIT: Although Kuwait is located outside sidelines of the 9th GCC earthquake forum, stops are air-conditioned and stylish as innocent people. Look at the domestic the line of fire, it had seen many earthquakes held at the institute’s headquarters yesterday. well. Most importantly, they are respect- workers’ recruitment agencies where measured at over four degrees during the KISR is continuously working on develop- ed and guarded against youngsters who maids are sold as if they are companies past decades. This led Kuwait to establish an ing programs to protect Kuwait against possi- practice their shooting lessons on the listed in the stock exchange, while their earthquake monitoring system in 1997, a sen- ble earthquakes, by studying ability of differ- buses and the pedestrians - practices prices go up and down depending on ior official said yesterday. ent facilities to withstand tremors, effects and that are common here in areas like Riqqa, the price of oil. After all that, do you still The system was launched by Kuwait’s aftermath of the quakes, he noted. Sabahiya, Fahaheel and Jaber Al-Ali. believe that Kuwait is a dream country Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) to The institute launched a thorough pro- Being in a bus can cause you unwanted for tourists or investors? record any earthquake occurring in countries gram in 2010 on management of environ- troubles, as irresponsible youngsters or near Kuwait or in other continents, KISR mental crises and natural disasters, which set ‘snipers’ premeditate their preys at bus Till the next article insha Allah Director General Naji Al-Mutairi said on the to continue until 2030, Mutairi said. —KUNA

Sheep ship saved A boat coming from Iran with sheep onboard made a distress call, prompting Salmiya sea rescue center to respond with the backing of the coastguard. The boat was taking too much water from a hole that was dealt with by rescue men. The water was pumped out of the boat, then rescue boats accompanied the Iranian boat until it entered Doha port.

Illegal calls General security patrols in Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh near the ‘Iblees’ (Satan) roundabout asked an Asian man for his doc- uments, but he ran into a building where he was arrested KUWAIT: The road occupancy department at Farwaniya municipality branch carried out a campaign to remove vio- in a room which was equipped to make international calls. lating camps. The campaign resulted in the removal of 14 camps west of Abdullah Al-Mubarak, one from Kabd The woman in charge of the booths, an Ethiopian, was also road and 13 from the Seventh Ring Road. Three half-lorry trucks and two truckloads of debris were removed. The arrested. Twenty eight landline phones, eight Internet sys- violators will not be refunded the deposits they paid. Meanwhile in Ahmadi, six camps were removed as well as 20 tems, 13 routers, 14 timers, a large quantity of wires, a cal- truckloads of trash including wood and furniture. In Jahra, six camps and three truckloads of leftovers were culator and KD 4.350 were found. removed. — By Hanan Al-Saadoun

LOCAL TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 Kuwait celebrates World Health Day Zain-sponsored MIT Minister attends ‘how safe is your food’ event conference addresses KUWAIT: Kuwait is taking all nec- from diarrhea to cancers. Nutrition and other relevant gov- essary measures to boost the Examples of unsafe food include ernment agencies for the good health of its population and undercooked foods of animal ori- health of the whole community, regional challenges improve the healthcare services gin, fruits and vegetables con- he added. offered to them. For that, Kuwait taminated with feces, and shell- The Association also con- Conference brings leaders together in Kuwait joins the rest of the world today fish containing marine biotoxins. tributes to the development of in marking the World Health Day, According to the World Health national strategies for food and KUWAIT: Leaders from government, Chairman and CEO of Kuwait Petroleum; focusing this year on ‘Food Organization (WHO), there were nutrition, efforts to ensure food industry, and academia in the Arab world Dr Naif Al-Mutawa, creator of THE 99, and Safety.’ an estimated 582 million cases of safety and develop contingency will gather in Kuwait on April 20-21 for Tarek Sultan, CEO and Vice Chairman of Kuwait is holding diverse activ- 22 different food borne enteric plans to cope with outbreaks of the 8th MIT Pan-Arab Conference, the Agility, among many other distinguished ities to mark the occasion; such as diseases and 351,000 associated diseases and epidemics resulting flagship event of the Massachusetts Kuwait and regional leading economic a celebration to be sponsored by deaths. from food and ways to protect Institute of Technology’s Arab Alumni figures. Minister of Health Dr Ali Al-Obaidi Kanderi said that the authori- the country such diseases. It is setting recommendations Association (MIT AAA). The two-day today. The planned event will be ty’s law enables it to take tough themed ‘how safe is your food.’ measures, impose fines that for the development of food serv- event will take place at the Symphony Regional importance Access to sufficient amounts of could lead to imprisonment, ices and programs to boost com- Style Hotel in Salmiya, Kuwait. Commenting on Zain Group’s spon- safe and nutritious food is key to against violators who threaten munity health and therapeutic sorship of the conference, Scott Health Minister Dr Ali Al-Obaidi Organized jointly with the MIT sustaining life and promoting the safety of people. The Kuwaiti feeding programs in hospitals, Enterprise Forum of the Pan Arab Region Gegenheimer, CEO of Zain Group said, good health. Food safety, nutri- civil society is also cooperating especially for patients of obesity, The World Health Day is a (MIT EF Pan Arab) and with lead sponsor- “Zain Group is delighted to be associated tion and food security are inextri- with the state to safeguard the heart disease, high blood pres- global health awareness day cele- ship from Zain Group, this year’s confer- with MIT AAA and the esteemed group cably linked. Unsafe food creates health of people. sure, diabetes and the reduction brated every year on 7 April, ence addresses the Arab world’s most of speakers assembled for this notable a vicious cycle of disease and of nutrient deficiency. under the sponsorship of WHO. It pressing challenges and discusses the conference being held in Kuwait. The malnutrition, particularly affect- Ensuring safety The association also provides is seen as an opportunity by the role of innovation and entrepreneurship topics of discussion are relevant and ing infants, young children, elder- The Kuwait Food and Nutrition technical and administrative organization to draw worldwide in overcoming these issues. important to our region, and Zain has ly and the sick. Association, a non-government advice to government agencies attention to a subject of major Other key sponsors for the conference long been of the opinion that innova- With all this in mind, Kuwait organization, aims to ensure the on means to control and monitor importance to global health each include global technology provider tion, technological advancement, and has created a special body, the safety of citizens, Head of the food and nutritional supplements year. WHO organizes internation- Ericsson, the Kuwait Foundation for the entrepreneurship will act as major driv- Public Authority for Food and association Dr Ahmad Rashed Al- in the country and to organize al, regional and local events on Advancement of Sciences (KFAS), the ers in overcoming a large number of the Nutrition, to control the food pro- Haifi said. It cooperates with the awareness campaigns on food the Day related to a particular Kuwait-MIT Center for Natural Resources economic and social challenges currently ducers, importers and sellers in Public Authority for Food and safety, Haifi added. theme. — KUNA and the Environment, and the Kuwait facing Kuwait and our region.” The title the country. The authority is National Real Estate Company (NREC). chosen for the conference is “Driving responsible for setting criteria for The conference this year is being held in Growth and Sustainability in an Evolving safe food, checking producers, conjunction with MIT EF Pan Arab’s annu- Landscape”. importers and dealers’ abidance al Arab Startup Competition. Winners of “The themes we selected in our previ- by them and taking actions the competition will be announced dur- ous conferences were specific to certain against violators, the Authority’s ing a gala dinner on the first day of the sectors, such as energy or manufactur- Board Chairman Essa Al-Kanderi conference. ing,” commented Hazem Zureiqat, said. Speakers at the conference include President of MIT AAA. “This year, howev- Sheikha Al-Zain Al-Sabah, Kuwait’s er, we chose to have a broader theme. National policy Undersecretary of the Ministry of State Our region is going through challenging He went on to say that the Authority is also in charge of for Youth Affairs; Scott Gegenheimer, times, so we need to take a step back inspecting food companies, mar- CEO of Zain Group; Mohammed Alshaya, and adopt a more holistic approach.” kets, stores and supervising food- Executive Chairman of M H Alshaya The MIT AAA was established in the importing and food testing labo- Company; Dr Fred Moavenzadeh, late 1990s to create a bridge between ratories. Moreover, it will develop President of the Masdar Institute in the MIT, one of the leading universities in the a national food and nutrition poli- UAE; Dr Ahmed Ghoniem, Director of the world, and the Arab region. The associa- cy to ensure food safety, promote Center for Energy and Propulsion tion has held seven conferences in the healthier nutrition and lifestyles, Research at MIT; Dr Bassam Alfeeli from past, with the upcoming event being the fight malnutrition and reduce the Kuwait Foundation for the first in Kuwait. The MIT AAA also recently food-borne diseases, he said. Advancement of Science; Dr Murad Abu- established a scholarship fund to sup- Unsafe food can contain harm- Khalaf, Executive Director of the Kuwait- port Arab students at MIT. For further ful bacteria, viruses, parasites or MIT Center for Natural Resources and the information and to register for the con- chemical substances, and cause Environment; Nizar Al-Adsani, Deputy ference, please visit www.mitaaa.org. more than 200 diseases - ranging ‘Food Safety’ is this year’s theme of Kuwait’s World Health Day celebration. TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 LOCAL

Al-Jarida Al-Qabas Custom-tailored opinions We, Salafists and the Brotherhood By Hassan Al-Essa By Ahmad Al-Sarraf n Bertolt Brecht’s ‘Turandot or The Whitewashers’ laws, they violated the laws of freedom of expression - with a tight schedule of visiting sheikhs and dignitaries, Congress’, sitting in the Wise Men teahouse, Kamo crimes that rarely exist where Khazen has resided and but his recent article sums the opposition goals by dis- Ispeaks to Moses, saying: “I am not going to compose lived for long, in the British capital, or because some of solving the parliament. n 1980, during my final month at the bank anything today because yesterday, I sold a merchant an them have been frequently visiting courts because of a With such a tight schedule visiting the richest and where I worked, and during an almost total opinion about modern music”. “Was it for or against?” asks lot of cases filed against them by the state. most powerful people in Kuwait, Khazen would never Iabsence of senior leadership during the sum- Moses. “Well, against. I do not sell opinions at random... Well, Khazen has turned a blind eye to many of the have a chance to meet any of the opposition members. mer break, I was the only official who had full those opinions are for anybody. I sell custom-tailored opposition’s bright achievements in exposing huge finan- After all, they are not media stars. Khazen will never authority. Internal auditing and supervision were opinions because my clients do not wish to hear opinions cial violations and crimes of corruption committed by meet any of them over a sumptuous dinner held in the simple then, and manipulation and theft were anyone can express,” Kamo answers. some previous members of the government or lawmak- honor of high-ranking state guests and he will never easy and possible for those with bad intentions. I The above dialogue came to my mind as part of ers. Khazen might not be aware of such achievements in see them in long queues to congratulate senior officials. decided, out of boredom, to conduct an exciting Brecht’s play about ‘Rulers’ Advisors’ after reading an arti- the history of the Kuwaiti opposition, and there is no It is simply very hard for him to meet any of the opposi- experiment, so I called one of the bank’s major cle by Jihad Al-Khazen, the back page columnist in problem with that because he seems to be more focused tion members. customers - who is still alive, and I think he reads London’s Arabic paper Al-Hayat. Khazen, who used to be on Kuwait’s ‘supreme interests’, and to him, the opposition However, regardless of his ‘non-biased’ opinion about my columns regularly - and asked to come to the the paper’s editor-in-chief, is once more criticizing the has been ‘hindering’ Kuwait’s development and prosperi- the opposition, he reminds me of the late great thinker bank for an important matter. Kuwaiti opposition. ty. He sounds like he almost wishes to rebuke Kuwaitis by Edward Said, who always stressed that it is an educated The man came at once, because his company’s Naturally enough, Khazen has every right to criticize saying: “What else do you want... you have everything?” person’s duty not to take sides and always stay at a dis- office is not far from the bank and had won a gov- Kuwaiti opposition practices, provided this is done by dif- I might find an excuse for the Al-Hayat columnist in tance from the powers. This is what independent critical ernment tender worth tens of millions of dinars. I ferentiating between its icons and its youth, even if they his assessment of the Kuwaiti opposition because when- thinking mandates and this is how an educated thinker are already in prison like Musallam Al-Barrak and a few ever he visits Kuwait, like what happened in his recent ‘fighting’ with his pen should act in the pursuit of truth, told him I have good news and bad news, so he young people simply because, according to Kuwaiti penal visit to attend the donors conference, he is usually busy because our society is fed up with ‘rulers’ advisors.’ asked to start with good one. I told him that because of my authority, I made a discount on all bank guarantee fees which the bank had already issued for that tender, or the ones he will request in a few days. I told him that I gave him a discount on the exchange rate of the large transfer he asked for, and that the total discount will be nearly KD 80,000! He thanked me mildly, and asked for the bad news. I told him that he has to pay half of that amount to me in cash. His face turned colors, then he told me honestly that the whole amount was at my disposal because I had helped him a lot, and that the amount had been calculated within the tender cost. I smiled and grabbed his hand and told him: “I was joking with you, and all what I wanted to do is to test myself in front of such attractions. I apologize for placing you in this silly situation, because it was my only option before I resign.” Recently, the courts began considering the case of accusations by the current administration against some members of the old one of Imtiyaz Co of embezzling nearly $900 million of share- holders’ money, which is the biggest case the courts have dealt with in the history of sharehold- ing companies in Kuwait. The funny and painful thing is that all those who worked in that compa- ny, and some of them are still working there - starting with the custodian all the way up to the chairman of the board - were and still are from the Salafist faction, so how did this happen? Those are them, and this is me, who for long was described of being liberal and secular and other bad and insulting names in their view. I do not write this to brag or vindicate my reputation, because I am not in need of anything after this long and beautiful age. Rather, I want to show that neither the beard nor the short dishdasha nor the rubbing of the foreheads, use of miswak and not missing prayers mean good behavior and right- eousness, as much as wearing a suit, necktie, shav- ing the beard nor moustache is not an indication of being astray and an infidel.

Crimes report

Soldier injured in police chase KUWAIT: A Kuwaiti soldier was admitted in Jahra Hospital’s ICU after his car flipped over in front of a military camp. He claimed that a police patrol was chasing him, and when his vehicle flipped over, the policemen left the scene. A securi- ty source said Interior Ministry operations received a call about the car in front of the military camp, and responders were surprised when they found a critically injured person inside. Investigations are underway.

Patients beat harasser Patients at Farwaniya Hospital beat a young man after he harassed a female citizen. A security source said the woman was surprised by a young man harassing her, so she screamed, prompting patients to respond and beat him up. Policemen stopped the beating and arrested the suspect. He is detained for further action.

Teen thieves arrested Hawally detectives arrested three juveniles who stole women’s purses in malls. The three confessed to committing the thefts. They were sent to the juvenile protection department.

Husband kidnapped A European national was terrified when five persons kidnapped her husband in Zahra. A security source said police received a call about the kidnapping and when they arrived at the scene, the woman told them that five persons abducted her husband, a Kuwaiti man, after beating him. The husband returned home after a short while bruised, and went to the police station and filed a complaint. Detectives are working on arresting the five who had differences with him.

Personal pictures online A citizen rejected blackmail attempts by an unidentified person over the phone, so he published indecent video clips on social media. A security source said a citizen who works for the National Guard told Surra police that he was threatened and blackmailed by an unknown person who asked him for money, threatening to publish his personal pictures and videos on social media. Police are working on identifying the suspect.

Missing girl A citizen reported his 19-year-old daughter is missing, as she told her family she was going to the beauty salon and did not return. Ahmadi detectives are work- ing on the case, especially since the missing girl is not responding to calls and her friends said they have not seen her. TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 Kashmir’s Hindus look State of Syrian refugee camp ‘inhumane’: UN to Modi for salvation

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ADEN: Yemeni supporters of the separatist Southern Movement stand on a tank.— AFP Yemen clashes kill more than 100 as aid delayed Relief workers warn dire situation will get worse

ADEN: Fierce clashes raged yesterday between men were killed overnight in the town of mountainous north, seized power in Sanaa. “We have a cargo plane with medical sup- plane were seen landing in the capital yester- rebels and loyalists in southern Yemen, leaving Daleh, north of Aden, officials said. Seven more Hadi fled to Saudi Arabia last month as rebels plies which is ready to go,” said Sitara Jabeen, a day to evacuate their citizens, as Jordan said it more than 100 dead in 24 hours, as the Red people were killed in the southern province of advanced on his southern stronghold, prompt- spokeswoman for the International Committee had evacuated almost 300 nationals. Russia Cross faced delays to urgently needed aid Abyan, where pro-Hadi fighters have laid siege ing the military campaign by the Saudi-led of the Red Cross. “We have the permission for has urged the UN Security Council to push for deliveries. Relief workers have warned of a dire to the base of a renegade army brigade loyal to coalition, now in its 12th day. this plane but we have logistical problems for a humanitarian pause in the strikes waged by situation in the impoverished Arabian ex-president Ali Abdullah Saleh, who is Yemen, strategically located near key ship- the landing. There are less and less planes land- Saudi Arabia and a coalition of five Gulf Peninsula state, where a Saudi-led coalition is accused of backing the Houthis. In nearby Lahj, ping routes and bordering oil-rich Saudi ing in Yemen. We are trying to solve the logistic monarchies, Egypt, Jordan, Morocco and waging an air war on the Iran-backed Huthi coalition air strikes hit the strategic Al-Anad air- Arabia, is sinking deeper into a multi-sided civil problems,” she said. The Red Cross is also trying Sudan. Shiite rebels. base and a nearby military camp, killing 10 conflict. The fighting has drawn in an array of to deploy a team of surgeons to Aden, but says Shiite Iran has strongly criticised the inter- Most of the 114 deaths in the past 24 hours rebels and forcing many others to flee, an army armed groups including the Huthis, pro-Hadi it is still awaiting authorizations from all sides vention in Yemen and has rejected accusations occurred in fighting between rebels and loyal- source and witnesses said. In Shabwa province, militia, army units loyal to Saleh, southern sep- in the fighting. It has called for all land, air and of arming the Huthis. Its foreign minister, ists of President Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi in eight rebels were killed in an air raid as two aratists, Sunni tribes and Al-Qaeda militants. sea routes to be immediately opened to allow Mohammad Javad Zarif, is due to visit the main southern city of Aden. Seventeen others died in clashes with tribes, sources said. The Red Cross has appealed for an immediate the delivery of 48 ton of medical supplies the Islamabad tomorrow to discuss the situation, civilians were among 53 people killed in Aden truce to facilitate aid deliveries and allow peo- organization has ready to treat up to 3,000 said Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Asif. where fighting continued as rebels tried to Aid flight ‘problems’ ple to seek water, food and medical assistance. wounded. In Riyadh, the Saudi cabinet reiterated that the seize a port in the city, which sits on an extinct Hadi, considered by the UN to be Yemen’s It has been trying to fly emergency supplies Sunni monarchy “is not seeking war” and that volcano jutting out into the sea. legitimate leader, took refuge in Aden in into Sanaa but the plane is still stuck on the tar- Nations standing by the offensive was to “rescue a neighboring At least 19 Houthis and 15 pro-Hadi militia- February after the Huthis, who hail from the mac. Three Indian aircraft and one Russian country... and its legitimate authority”. — AFP

French forces rescue hostage in Mali imprisoned since 2011 PARIS: French Special Forces yesterday freed a Dutchman held hostage since being kidnapped in 2011 by extremists in Mali, the government said. There was no word on the fate of two men abducted at the same time. The French military said the rescue of Sjaak Rijke took place at 5 am yesterday in far northern Mali. French President Francois Hollande said some militants were killed and others captured. Yesterday’s statement did not identify who was holding Rijke, but the Dutchman appeared in a video posted in November by Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb. Some 3,000 French forces are taking part in the mis- sion to stabilize Mali, which was overrun by Al-Qaeda- linked Islamic extremists until French troops came to the aid of Malian soldiers in January 2013. Hollande said the Special Forces had planned the operation against the extremists without knowing Rijke was among them. Rijke was abducted by extremists in November 2011 from a hostel in Timbuktu along with Johan Gustafsson of Sweden and South African Stephen Malcolm, who holds dual British citizenship. A German died in that attack. Officials in France and the Netherlands did not say whether there was any news of Gustafsson or Malcolm after yesterday’s operation. The South African government would not comment publicly yesterday on Malcolm’s whereabouts, citing security reasons. France said Rijke was safely evacuated to a French operating base in Tessalit. Hostage-taking has proved to be a lucrative business in Mali, other Sahel countries and further afield in the war zone of Syria and Iraq. Dutch Foreign Minister Bert Koenders said Rijke is being cared for by Dutch embassy staff and troops in Mali, and is doing well under the circumstances. “This is fantastic news for Sjaak and his family. I’m happy and relieved that this terrible period of uncertainty and sadness has been brought to an end,” Koenders said. — AP INTERNATIONAL TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015

Unlike neighbors, Oman has unique friendship with Iran

MUSCAT: Iran’s ties with its Arab neigh- could also act as an important bridge European Union and the United States relations. Your neighbor will not move,” Sohar. Half of the 10 million cubic bors across the Gulf have long been with the Islamic republic, both for its for talks on its nuclear program. After Muqaddam said. Since coming to power meters of gas pumped each year will go strained but one nation-Oman-has neighbors and the West. last week’s potentially historic frame- in 1970, the pragmatic Qaboos has care- to Japan, India and South Korea, carved out a unique and potentially cru- “Given the political sensitivities and work nuclear deal, US Secretary of State fully nurtured historic ties with Tehran, Sibeveih said. Iran also plans to build cial relationship with Tehran. From Syria the wide gap over regional security John Kerry thanked Oman for its “critical Muqaddam said. That relationship has and operate a $1.5-billion 400-bed hos- and Iraq and now the conflict in Yemen, issues, any improvement of ties can role in getting these talks off the ground paid political dividends, as when Iran pital in Barka, a city near Muscat, he Sunni Arab states led by Saudi Arabia function as a confidence-boosting in the first place”. sent troops to help Oman quell the said. have vied with Shiite Iran for influence measure that can help to overcome Oman also mediated between Tehran Dhofar rebellion-a leftwing uprising in Iran “can offer much more in terms of in the Gulf and the greater Middle East. years of mistrust between the GCC and Washington for prisoner releases, the country’s south-in the early 1970s. future energy projects and perhaps The rhetoric has risen in recent days, states and Iran,” said Kristian Coates including the freeing of three US hikers even defense ties, given the two coun- with Iran saying a Saudi-led intervention Ulrichsen, Middle East Fellow at jailed in Iran on suspicion of being spies Growing trade links tries’ shared interests in the Strait of against Shiite Houthi rebels in Yemen is Houston-based Rice University. after they strayed across the border in But it is increasing trade that is at the Hormuz,” said Christopher Davidson, “dangerous” and could spark a wider Friendlier ties with Iran, he said, could 2009. In 2012, it mediated the release of heart of the two countries’ growing ties. professor of Middle East politics at conflict. But unlike other members of even open up new economic opportu- an Iranian woman, Shahrazad Mir Tehran’s ambassador to Muscat, Ali Britain’s Durham University. A thriving the Saudi-dominated Gulf Cooperation nities for Gulf Arab states. “Iran can offer Gholikhan, jailed by the United States Akbar Sibeveih, said trade had rocketed unofficial trade also exists, with speed- Council (GCC), Oman has not joined the the GCC states a significant and largely for allegedly smuggling arms. in the past two years from $198 million boats from Oman frequently crossing air strikes in Yemen. untapped regional market so any Mohammed Saad Al-Muqaddam, a to $1.05 billion. “We are expecting in the strait to smuggle goods into sanc- And Iranian media reports this week- upsurge in relations will focus likely on history professor at Sultan Qaboos 2015 to see very much progress in the tion-hit Iran. Part of the reason for end said Tehran had reached out to economic and commercial benefit to University and expert in Iran-Oman rela- business relations between the two Oman’s independent path, experts say, Oman to see if it can help end the both sides,” he said. tions, said Oman’s ruler has long under- countries,” Sibeveih told AFP, pointing to is that with most of its citizen’s adher- strikes and find a political solution to stood the importance of its neighbor a number of recent deals. ents to the Ibadhi branch of Islam, the the crisis in Yemen. While these ties may Host for nuclear talks across the narrow Strait of Hormuz. Oman and Iran agreed last year to country stands to some degree outside raise hackles with some of Oman’s fel- Oman’s unique role was highlighted Sultan Qaboos “talks of Iran as a neigh- build an underwater pipeline to pump the Sunni-Shiite divide that colors much low GCC members, experts say Muscat last November when it hosted Iran, the bor with whom there should be good Iranian gas to the Omani port city of of Middle East politics. — AFP 300 Kurds kidnapped by Islamists in Syria BEIRUT: Islamist fighters yesterday kid- being held. The Observatory said the cap- napped some 300 Kurdish civilians at a tors had demanded, through the released checkpoint in northwestern Syria, Kurdish women, that three men arrested by author- officials and a local journalist said. It was ities in Afrin be freed. There was no imme- not immediately clear which group was diate confirmation of those demands from responsible for the kidnapping, though PYD officials or residents of Afrin, which is Kurdish officials accused Al-Qaeda’s affiliate under Kurdish control. The kidnapping Al-Nusra Front, which is active in Idlib occurred in northwestern Idlib province, province. where Al-Nusra and its allies wield consid- “A group of 300 people on five coaches erable influence. and a mini-bus coming from Afrin were kid- The Al-Qaeda affiliate helped capture napped at a checkpoint as they went to the provincial capital Idlib city on March 28 Aleppo to collect their salaries,” said Newaf along with a coalition of other opposition Khalil, a spokesman for the Kurdish groups. The incident is not the first mass Democratic Union Party (PYD). The kidnap- kidnapping in Syria, where large groups of ping was confirmed by a second official Kurds and Christians have been held, most- from the PYD, the main Kurdish party in ly by Al-Nusra’s extremist rival, the Islamic Syria, and a journalist in Afrin, who said the State group. IS fighters are accused of kid- women in the group had been freed but napping over 200 Assyrian Christians from the men and children taken. Hasakeh province, and last year held more “There were 300 people on five buses, than 150 Kurdish schoolchildren kid- and they were kidnapped in Dana, which is napped in Aleppo province. under the control of Islamist factions and Al-Nusra has also been implicated in Al-Nusra Front,” said journalist Ali Abdul kidnappings. It has been accused of hold- Rahman. The PYD officials accused Al-Nusra ing journalists and aid workers and in 2013 of being behind the kidnapping, but Abdul kidnapped a group of 13 nuns who were Rahman and the Syrian Observatory for later released in a prisoner exchange. More Human Rights monitor said it remained than 215,000 people have been killed in unclear which group was responsible. Syria since the conflict began in March YARMOUK: This picture provided by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), UN relief The Observatory reported similar details 2011 with anti-regime protests that spi- workers with blue helmets and vests stand next of residents of the besieged Palestinian camp. — AP on the kidnapping, but said it was not raled into a bloody civil war after a govern- immediately clear how many people were ment crackdown. — AFP State of Syrian refugee Spanish caver rescued in Morocco in good health camp ‘inhumane’: UN OUARZAZATE: The sole survivor of three holers had been initially found alive on Spanish cavers trapped for days in a deep Saturday morning, several days after they ravine in Morocco’s High Atlas Mountains went missing after breaking off from a was “in good health” yesterday after a com- group of nine Spaniards to explore different Both extremists and govt shelled the camp plicated rescue, officials said. Twenty-seven- caves. But officials said late Saturday that year-old policeman Juan Bolivar, the only one man — 41-year-old Gustavo Virues had BEIRUT: Palestinian fighters clashed with Damascus, and the Britain-based Syrian the UN agency that supports Palestinian man to come out of the ordeal alive, was died as rescue workers scrambled to reach Islamic State militants in a heavily contested Observatory for Human Rights. Both Al- refugees known as UNRWA, told The Associated admitted late Sunday to the private Chifa the trio at the bottom of the ravine in an Palestinian refugee camp in the Syrian capital Dimashqi and the Observatory said Syrian gov- Press in Barcelona late Sunday that the agency clinic in Ouarzazate in southern Morocco. area where access is difficult and a helicop- yesterday as a United Nations official described ernment aircraft have been shelling the camp has not been able to send any food or convoys The bodies of his two companions have ter cannot land. Officials in Ouarzazate had the situation in the embattled camp as “beyond and dropping barrel bombs since Sunday. into the camp since the fighting started. not yet been recovered from the depths of said the other two had been “injured” and inhumane.” The fighting in Yarmouk began The fighting inside the camp has largely pit- “That means that there is no food, there is the 400-metre ravine. Spanish public televi- had received first aid ahead of their planned Wednesday after the Islamic State group mus- ted the Islamic State group against Aknaf Beit no water and there is very little medicine,” he sion station TVE, quoting Moroccan rescue evacuation. cled into the camp, marking the extremists’ Al-Maqdis, a Palestinian faction opposed to said. “The situation in the camp is beyond inhu- workers, said one of the three had possibly deepest foray yet into Damascus. The heavy Syrian President Bashar Assad. Observatory mane. People are holed up in their houses, slipped on a patch of ice, dragging the oth- Alarms raised clashes that have raged since then have added director Rami Abdurrahman estimated that the there is fighting going on in the streets. There er two down with him as he fell. Bolivar was However the Spanish interior ministry yet another layer of misery for the nearly Islamic State group now controls as much as 90 are reports of ... bombardments. This has to evacuated from the scene of the accident announced late on Sunday that Jose 18,000 Yarmouk residents who have already percent of Yarmouk, slowly squeezing out stop and civilians must be evacuated.” by police on Sunday night and taken into Antonio Martinez, 41, had also died while endured desperate conditions marked by a lack Aknaf Beit Al-Maqdis. He said 93 people have been evacuated the clinic on a stretcher, his eyes closed and awaiting rescue. “My condolences to the of basic food, medicine and water. from the camp so far. The United Nations says legs bandaged. family and friends of Jose Antonio Martinez, The deteriorating situation prompted the Working with Al-Qaeda around 18,000 civilians, including a large num- “He has been examined by a multi-disci- a chief police inspector who died in UN Security Council to call an emergency meet- Palestinian officials and Syrian activists say ber of children, are trapped in Yarmouk. The plinary team of specialists, and his state of Morocco,” it said in a Twitter message ing yesterday to discuss Yarmouk. The Security the Islamic State militants fighting in Yarmouk camp has been under government siege for health is good,” regional health ministry offi- signed by Interior Minister Jorge Fernandez Council was scheduled to receive a closed-door were working with rivals from the Al-Qaeda nearly two years, leading to starvation and ill- cial Dr Khalid Salmi said yesterday. “But after Diaz. videoconference briefing by the head of the UN affiliate in Syria, the Nusra Front. The two nesses. The camp also has witnessed several what he’s been through, he needs some Martinez had broken his legs and suf- agency for Palestinian refugees, Pierre groups have fought bloody battles against rounds of ferocious and deadly fighting time to rest before being repatriated,” an fered a head injury, his wife had earlier told Krahenbuhl. After heavy fighting on Sunday, each other in other parts of Syria, but appear to between government forces and anti-Assad operation which should take place some- TVE. Fellow cavers raised the alarm on sporadic clashes broke out yesterday in be cooperating in the attack on Yarmouk. Nusra militants. “Things were bad and things got time this week. Spanish media reported Tuesday after the trio failed to meet up with Yarmouk, according to Hatem Al-Dimashqi, an said in a statement it is taking a neutral stance worse when the fighting engulfed the camp,” that Bolivar was suffering from hypothermia them in Ouarzazate as planned. The three activist based in an area just south of in the camp. Chris Gunness, a spokesman for Gunness said. — AP and was in a state of shock. were located by Moroccan search teams in the commune of Tarmest, but heavy fog on ‘Doing well’ Saturday hindered the rescue, officials said, Spain’s Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy adding that the men had not been accom- Syria talks begin in Moscow said yesterday that the rescued man was panied by professional guides. “doing well”. The foreign ministry in Madrid Virues’s cousin Victor Rengel told TVE said Bolivar’s state of health was being that the dead lawyer and father-of-two but little progress expected monitored, but did not indicate when he was an “experienced” caver who had him- might come home. It added that the recov- self taken part in rescue operations. The ery of the bodies of the other two men was area the three were exploring is rugged MOSCOW: Talks on ending the war negotiations,” the source said. AFP that the delegations “will only The opposition National “in the hands of the Moroccan authorities”. terrain that includes peaks of around 4,000 in Syria began yesterday in Moscow Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergei discuss ‘soft’ subjects on which Coalition, however, accusing Russia Dr Salmi said the bodies were still at the meters still covered with snow from winter. but the absence of key opposition Lavrov played down hopes for any agreement might be found.” of seeking to use the talks to bolster scene of the accident, in an area that was Ouarzazate lies to the south of the High groups meant there was little hope breakthrough saying Moscow was “You cannot say that these con- Assad, has declined to attend, and extremely difficult to get to. “All teams have Atlas range on the edge of the Sahara of progress in resolving the conflict. disappointed by the decision of sultations will have any major finds itself increasingly sidelined by been mobilized so they can be brought out desert, about 510 kilometers by road from Syria’s ambassador to the United National Coalition not to attend. “We results,” Russian Middle East expert powerful regional actors such as as soon as possible,” he said. All three pot- the capital Rabat. —AFP Nations, Bashar Al-Jaafari, is heading are not setting any final deadlines Boris Dolgov said. “It is just one step, Saudi Arabia and Egypt. Another the government delegation for the given that so much blood has been albeit important, on the path opposition figure Louay Hussein, meetings with members of the shed in Syria and that there have towards stopping the crisis in Syria.” who heads the Building the Syrian domestic “tolerated” opposition, the been so many false starts in this Dolgov said that by hosting the talks State party, told AFP that Damascus National Coordination Committee for process,” Lavrov said. Moscow was looking to boost its barred him from attending the Democratic Change (NCCDC). The talks follow a similar round of standing as a potential mediator meeting by refusing to lift a travel But the main Western-backed meetings between the government while also seeking to curb the threat ban imposed following his release exiled Syrian opposition National and officially tolerated opposition in that radical groups such as Islamic on bail in February after three Coalition stayed away, and another Moscow in late January that failed to State pose to its national security. months in jail. —AFP leading domestic opposition activist make any concrete progress towards remains under a travel ban from resolving the deep-rooted conflict. Damascus. The discussions, which The sit down is the first since some of run until April 9, are expected to the key international players in the focus on humanitarian issues and crisis thrashed out an outline deal plans for future talks, while also serv- over Iran’s nuclear program and US ing as a way for Russia, a main backer Secretary of State John Kerry refused of the Syrian regime, to build its pro- to rule out speaking to Syrian file as a potential mediator in the President Bashar Al-Assad. conflict. A source in the Syrian gov- ernment delegation told AFP that ‘Soft’ subjects the opposition would spend the But despite the seemingly posi- meeting with Russian mediators tive noises over the conflict there before the two sides sits down seemed little prospect of any break- OUARZAZATE: Spanish rescue workers carry a rescued Spanish caver to a clinic. together Wednesday. through at the Moscow talks. Ahead Only one of three Spanish cavers trapped at the bottom of a deep ravine in “The main idea this time is to of the meeting a source close to Morocco’s High Atlas Mountains was extracted alive after a complicated rescue agree on a precise agenda for further Syrian government delegation told DAMASCUS: A wounded Syrian child is treated at a makeshift clinic in operation. — AFP the rebel-held area of Douma. — AFP INTERNATIONAL TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 Afrikaner hero defaced in new S Africa protests

PRETORIA: A statue of an Afrikaner hero respect,” said Cronje. ress at Cafe Riche, a restaurant that looks system of whites-only rule. “It’s just one did a traditional Zulu dance in front of was defaced in South Africa on Sunday, A wave of attacks against the coun- out on the Kruger statue, showed AFP small painting,” said Blessing Manale, the paint-smeared statue, while others the latest in a series of anti-colonial try’s colonial heritage began in March photos on her mobile phone of people spokesman for Mayor Kgosientso posed for photos. “People are stupid, or protests that has forced the country to when young protestors at the University wearing the red shirts of the Economic Ramokgopa, whose Tshwane municipali- maybe they are bored, they throw paint square its racist past with the spirit of of Cape Town threw excrement at a stat- Freedom Fighters, the third-biggest par- ty includes Pretoria. instead of going to church,” said David reconciliation championed by Nelson ue of Cecil Rhodes, eventually forcing ty in South Africa, splashing the statue Manale said the city is moving for- Mbada, a 53-year-old man dressed in Mandela. “I wouldn’t go up to the Nelson the university to remove the statue of with neon green paint on Sunday. ward with pressing criminal charges, but black standing in front of the Kruger Mandela statue and spoil it with paint,” the British imperialist. The protests have Pretoria’s mayor has also voiced support added that the mayor is considering statue. Mbada said that the statue does said Jaco Cronje, a businessman stand- gained traction in a country where over for the protesters calling for the statue to relocating the statue and replacing it not offend him. “Things have changed, ing in front of the paint-splattered statue 20 years of democracy has yielded little be moved from Church Square. with “new” installations. “What do we do you don’t see blacks and whites as differ- of the country’s fifth president Paul for blacks, who today earn significantly Kruger led the Afrikaners to victory with all these pieces of South African his- ent people, we work together, eat Kruger in Pretoria, the country’s adminis- less than whites and are more likely to over the British in the First Boer War of tory? We just want it to be balanced,” together, go to the same bank,” said trative capital. “There’s only one word to be unemployed. 1881. He is still a hero to the white eth- said Ramokgopa. Mbada. But, he added, “People associate complete the rainbow nation and that’s Constance Tjale, a 48-year-old wait- nic group that introduced apartheid, a Yesterday morning, a group of girls it with apartheid”. — AFP

Death penalty hearing for man charged with killing 3 Muslims

DURHAM: The man accused of killing three cide investigation to determine whether North Carolina college students - their fam- any federal laws were violated, including ily says because they were Muslim - is hate crime statutes. scheduled to appear in court for a hearing Search warrants filed by Chapel Hill yesterday to determine whether he could police said Barakat was shot in the head face the death penalty. Durham County near the entrance to his condo. The two District Attorney Roger Echols said in court women were found in or near the kitchen. documents last month he plans to seek the Eight spent shell casings were found at the death sentence if Craig Stephen Hicks is crime scene, investigators said. Earlier convicted of first-degree murder. Hicks is search warrants listed a dozen firearms charged with Feb 10 killings of 23-year-old recovered from the condo unit Hicks Deah Shaddy Barakat; his wife, 21-year-old shared with his wife, in addition to the Yusor Mohammad Abu-Salha; and her sis- handgun the suspect had with him when ter, 19-year-old Razan Mohammad Abu- he turned himself in after the shootings. Salha. Hicks, who was unemployed and study- Police say Hicks, 46, appears to have ing to become a paralegal, posted online been motivated by a long-running dispute that he was an atheist and a staunch advo- over parking spaces at the Chapel Hill con- cate of the Second Amendment right to dominium complex where he lives in the bear arms. Neighbors described him as an same building as Barakat and his wife. The angry man who had frequent confronta- victims’ families are adamant that they tions over parking or loud music, some- were targeted because they were Muslims times with a gun holstered at his hip. His and have pushed for hate-crime charges. social media posts often discussed The FBI is conducting what it has called a firearms, including a photo posted of a .38- “parallel preliminary inquiry” to the homi- caliber revolver. —AP

Top Mormons outline support for man-woman marriage only

SALT LAKE CITY: Mormon leaders vowed to church president and his two counselors. As be a leading advocate for the belief that mar- acceptance for gay marriage has swelled in BOSTON: A construction worker walks past death-penalty protesters outside of John Joseph Moakley United States Courthouse before the riage is an institution exclusive to a man and recent years and same-sex unions have beginning of closing arguments in the Boston Marathon Bombing case. —AFP a woman during the religion’s biannual con- become legal in dozens of states, including ference that also included two rare events. Utah, the church’s stance on homosexuality The first came when the conference has softened. Church leaders helped push kicked off without the usual welcoming through a Utah law this year that bars hous- Closing arguments set in address from church President Thomas S ing and employment discrimination against Monson, 87, who days earlier also missed a gay and transgender individuals while also meeting with President Barack Obama while expanding protections for the rights of reli- he was in Utah. Monson, who was still present gious groups and individuals. LGBT activists marathon bombing trial at conference and walked in on his own, have spent years pushing for a statewide skipped the speech as part of a decision to non-discrimination law, but they couldn’t get reduce the number of speeches he’s giving traction until LDS leaders made a nationwide Radicalized older brother still being blamed this weekend, church officials said. He gave a call for this type of legislation that combined short speech about the priesthood Saturday protections for religious liberties. BOSTON: With one last chance to connect with stick with a strategy of conceding guilt, but try- Denouncing the US evening. But the religion has taken time during sev- the jury, lawyers for Boston Marathon bomber ing to persuade the jury that because Tsarnaev Prosecutors told the jury that Tsarnaev and The second unusual event occurred when eral recent conferences to emphasize its insis- Dzhokhar Tsarnaev are expected to continue to was not the driving force behind the attack, they his brother were partners in the attack. They five people stood up and yelled, “Opposed,” tence that marriage should be limited to portray him as an aimless college student who should spare him from the death penalty and called witnesses who described how he joined during a part of the conference when atten- unions between a man and a woman, as God fell under the domineering influence of his radi- instead sentence him to life in prison during the his brother at a New Hampshire firing range to dees usually raise their hands in unison in a created. In April 2014, Neil L Andersen of the calized older brother. second phase of the trial. The same jury will be practice shooting about a month before the vote of support for church leadership, draw- quorum said, “While many governments and But prosecutors are sure to remind the jury of asked to decide his punishment. During the tri- marathon, had fireworks that had been emptied ing some gasps by surprised attendees who well-meaning individuals have redefined the brutality of the attack, the people who were al, the defense used its four witnesses to show of their explosive powder in his dorm room and hadn’t seen this kind of act for decades. They marriage, the Lord has not.” maimed or killed, and the image of Tsarnaev that Tamerlan Tsarnaev had searched for bomb scrawled a message inside the boat he was cap- represented only a handful of the 20,000 in standing behind 8-year-old Martin Richard and components on his computer, while Dzhokhar’s tured in denouncing the US for its wars in attendance. Highlights from the conference President skips customary opening his family about a minute before the blasts. The computer activity focused largely on Facebook, Muslim countries. in Salt Lake City: A few eyebrows were raised when boy was one of three people killed when a Russian version of Facebook and other social They also called survivors of the bombing President Monson didn’t come out for his cus- Tsarnaev and his brother, Tamerlan, placed two media sites. who gave heart-wrenching testimony about Support for man-woman marriage tomary welcome address, given instead by pressure-cooker bombs near the marathon fin- The defense also called an FBI fingerprint having legs blown off in the explosions. “I think L Tom Perry, a member of the faith’s the faith’s third-highest ranking leader, Dieter ish line on April 15, 2013. investigator who said Tamerlan’s fingerprints the prosecution will remind the jury how hor- were found on some of the bomb parts recov- Quorum of the Twelve, cautioned Mormons F Uchtdorf. Monson walked in and out of the Closing arguments in the first phase of the rendous this event was and they will further trial are scheduled for Monday. Tsarnaev’s lawyer ered at the scene of the marathon bombing not to be swayed by a world filled with media two sessions on his own, though he had a lit- remind the jury that this fellow was a terrorist,” admitted he participated in the bombings dur- while Dzhokhar’s were not. and entertainment that presents the minority tle stumble as he was reaching his seat at the said Boston College Law School professor ing her opening statement to the jury. “It was “They will continue to downplay his role and masquerading as the majority and tries to beginning of the afternoon session that led Robert Bloom. make mainstream values seem obsolete. to gasps in the crowd. He recovered and sat him,” said attorney Judy Clarke, a renowned play up the role of his older brother, trying to death penalty lawyer. But Clarke told the jury create the impression that his older brother was To rebut the defense claim that Dzhokhar Perry said strong, traditional families are through the session. was merely a follower of his brother, prosecu- the basic units of a stable society, a stable When he missed the meeting with Obama, that it was Tamerlan Tsarnaev who was the mas- the puppeteer and he was the puppet,” said termind of the attack. Clarke said the 26-year-old Christopher Dearborn, a professor at Suffolk tors also will likely remind the jury that he is economy and a stable culture of values. He church officials said that decision was to pre- shown in surveillance video and still photos car- noted that Mormons investment in the topic serve his strength for the conference. Monson had become increasingly radicalized and enlist- University Law School. “I don’t think they have ed Dzhokhar, then 19, to help him in an attack any hope of prevailing in the guilt phase, but rying a backpack and then with the backpack at is even deeper than other religions because has missed only one other welcoming speech his feet on the sidewalk behind the Richard fam- they believe marriages and family are for at a conference since he was named presi- meant to retaliate against the U.S. for its actions their strategy will continue to be to gain some in Muslim countries. credibility with the jury by conceding what they ily as well as other children. “The prosecution eternity. “We want our voice to be heard dent in February 2008. That was at the fall might say something to the effect of ‘He didn’t against all of the counterfeit and alternative conference in October 2011. In the Mormon had to concede and hoping to try to humanize Conceding guilt the kid a little bit so that will carry over into the do as much as his brother, but he did plenty,’” lifestyles that try to replace the family organi- faith, which counts 15 million members Bloom said. —AP zation that God Himself established,” Perry worldwide, church presidents are considered Legal analysts said they expect the defense to second phase of the trial,” he said. said. D Todd Christofferson, another member living prophets. Monson, the 16th president of the quorum, added more on the topic, say- of a faith founded in 1830, has kept a relative- ing, “A family built on the marriage of a man ly low profile during his tenure. Monson’s Chair in which Lincoln was shot and woman supplies the best setting for wife, Frances Monson, died at the age of 85 in God’s plan to thrive - the setting for the birth May 2013. of children who come in purity and inno- takes stage on 150th anniversary cence from God.” Christofferson said the focus Support for leaders not unanimous on marriage isn’t meant to disparage those Dieter F Uchtdorf, the faith’s third-highest DEARBORN, Michigan: Jeff Buczkiewicz stood Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln,” told The removed it from the theater and held it as evi- who don’t marry, be it because they can’t find ranking leader who was at the podium han- before the chair Abraham Lincoln was sitting in Associated Press that the chair will offer an extra dence, and it ended up at the Smithsonian a suitable partner, have physical or mental dling this portion of the conference calmly when he was assassinated 150 years ago. He “dimension” to her words and the experience of Institution. The wife of a theater co-owner peti- impairments or experience same-sex attrac- responded when the five people stood up to peered silently into the glass-enclosed case at those in the room. “There’s an intimacy to it that tioned to reclaim it, and then sold it at auction to tion. cast opposing votes, causing a bit of a stir. the rocking chair, then snapped pictures for pos- catapults you back in time,” she said. “And hope- an agent working for Henry Ford. “No one is predestined to receive less than “Thank you. The vote has been noted,” terity. fully, along with that, you’re not just thinking of Henry Ford also bought the Logan County all that the Father has for His children,” Uchtdorf said. At the end of this segment, he “You just get drawn into these things,” said the death but the life that made it worthwhile.” Courthouse where Lincoln practiced law in Christofferson said. The quorum is a govern- reminded those in opposition they are wel- Buczkiewicz, 47, who came from suburban Lincoln’s chair has been part of the museum Illinois in the 1840s and moved it to the outdoor ing body of the church that is modeled after come to talk more about their reasons with Chicago with his family to the Henry Ford started by pioneering automaker Henry Ford - area next to his museum known as Greenfield Jesus Christ’s apostles and serves under the regional church leaders.—AP Museum in Dearborn, Michigan. “It is a tragic no relation to the theater-owning Ford family - Village. For decades, the theater chair was part of our history and our country. I think it’s since its founding 85 years ago. The government housed in that courthouse.— AP important to take it all in.” Taking in objects from the final hours of two important American lives is a major draw to the museum. In addition to the worn, red chair Lincoln was sitting in when he was shot in Ford’s Theatre in Washington, DC, in 1865, the Henry Ford also owns the limousine President John F Kennedy was riding in when he was fatally shot in Dallas nearly a century later. Museum officials say the chair and car are among the most visited artifacts in the museum, along with the bus Rosa Parks rode in when she refused to give up her seat to a white rider and helped spark the civil rights movement.

Extra dimensions Next week, visitors will get an even closer look at the Lincoln chair: It will be removed from its enclosure and displayed in an open plaza area as part of the museum’s observance of the assassination’s sesquicentennial on April 15 - a day of free admission. Two days earlier, it will be onstage when renowned historian and Lincoln expert Doris Kearns Goodwin delivers a sold-out SALT LAKE CITY: People attend the opening session of the Mormon Church confer- lecture at The Henry Ford. DEARBORN: The chair in which President Abraham Lincoln was assassinated on April 14, 1865 ence. — AP Goodwin, author of “Team of Rivals: The is shown on display at the Henry Ford Museum. — AP INTERNATIONAL TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 ‘Chillaxing’ Cameron fights for political life

LONDON: British Prime Minister David popular of the main party leaders. By died aged six in 2009. Cameron is mar- Cameron is battling to win a second term comparison, the Conservatives are cur- ried to Samantha, a design executive, in power that could define his legacy- rently polling in the low 30s. That failure and the couple has three surviving chil- potentially as the man who led his coun- to shake off the Conservative Party’s dren. try out of the European Union. Cameron’s image as the “nasty party” could cost Conservative party-once led by “Iron Cameron his job. Marriage of convenience Lady” Margaret Thatcher is currently at Cameron’s own background and the At the 2010 general election, level pegging in opinion polls with the party’s emphasis on cutting benefits as Cameron became the youngest prime main opposition Labor Party. And even if part of its austerity program has fuelled minister for 200 years but the Cameron nominally wins the May 7 elec- criticism that his party only represents Conservatives did not win enough seats tion, he looks unlikely to be able to the privileged. The son of a stockbroker, to avoid having to form a coalition. achieve his aim of ditching his Liberal Cameron was educated at Eton, the Instead, they had to team up with the Democrat coalition partners and govern- school later attended by Princes William centrist Liberal Democrats for Britain’s ing alone. and Harry, and Oxford University, where first coalition government since World While Cameron’s government has he was admitted to the Bullingdon Club, War II. At home, the coalition has been overseen deep austerity cuts, he person- a hard-drinking, socially exclusive stu- defined by its spending cuts, while for- ally has attracted flak for what oppo- dent group. eign policy was dominated by wrangling nents see as an overly relaxed approach After university, Cameron worked for over Britain’s role in the EU. Abroad, fol- to his job. In a phrase that stuck, one the Conservatives as an advisor before a lowing long military campaigns in Iraq aide, not among his critics, told biogra- stint in public relations which ended and Afghanistan, Britain played a smaller phers: “If there was an Olympic gold when he was elected to parliament in role on the world stage under Cameron. medal for chillaxing, he would win it.” 2001. Cameron rose swiftly in the In 2013, his plan to join international mil- DORSET: Britain’s Prime Minister David Cameron has a bite to eat with Lilli A former Conservative deputy chair- Conservatives-then struggling badly itary action against the Assad regime in Docherty and her daughter Dakota in their garden as he meets people who man turned pollster, however, wrote against Tony Blair’s Labor government- Syria was defeated by the House of have benefited from tax and pension changes that come into force. — AFP recently that “uniquely among the lead- and was elected leader in 2005. After Commons, although Britain did join ers, he (Cameron) commands higher winning the leadership at the age of 39, operations in Libya in 2011. Last year, Despite an economic recovery, outright Conservative MPs frustrated by approval ratings than his party”. “But this he tried to “detoxify” the party brand by Cameron avoided becoming the leader defeat on May 7 is a real possibility for Cameron’s liberal outlook and failure to signals that, in important respects-at avoiding traditional right-wing issues like under whom Scotland split from Britain Cameron, as is five more years in a coali- lead them to a clear election victory last least in the eyes of voters-Cameron has immigration and stressing a more liberal after Scots rejected independence in a tion or minority government. time round. Even if the Conservatives do not been able to change the party he agenda. referendum, despite a last minute surge Cameron has said that if re-elected he win next month, the coming years could leads,” Michael Ashcroft added. He posed with husky dogs at the by the “Yes” camp. will not carry on as prime minister be hard. “The worst case scenario for North Pole to highlight his green creden- beyond 2020. The election will deter- Cameron in 2015 might be winning the ‘Detoxifying’ the Conservatives tials, while his respect for public services Winning as worst outcome? mine how history judges him, not least general election with a very small majori- Some 47 percent of Britons believe was underlined by the care his disabled While the coalition government because it will dictate whether there is a ty, leaving him prey to the whims of his Cameron is doing well as prime minister, son Ivan received from the state-run brought stability for Britain, albeit referendum on Britain leaving the EU. eurosceptic and right-wing back- according to a YouGov/Sunday Times National Health Service (NHS). Ivan, who through a series of compromises, it did Cameron promised to hold a referendum benchers,” political historian Anthony poll this week, making him the most had cerebral palsy and severe epilepsy, not make the Conservatives popular. by 2017 under pressure from eurosceptic Seldon has written. —AFP

Crash pilot’s profile prompts hard questions, deep unease

BERLIN: The profile that has emerged of 2001, terror attacks in the United States Germanwings co-pilot Andreas Lubitz has allow someone in the cockpit to deny oth- become more troubling by the day. In the ers entry. Shortly after takeoff from hours after Flight 9525 crashed in the Barcelona on March 24, Lubitz offered to French Alps two weeks ago, Lubitz was take over the controls while the pilot went regarded as one of 150 victims in an unex- to the toilet. Finding himself unable to plained disaster. Two days later he was the enter the cockpit on his return, the pilot prime suspect of an unfathomable act. pleaded with Lubitz to let him back in. By now, French and German prosecutors Lubitz ignored him and repeatedly acceler- have little doubt that the 27-year-old inten- ated the plane before it slammed into a tionally slammed the Airbus A320 into a mountainside near the village of Le Vernet. mountain, killing everyone on board, and With pilots responsible for the lives of 10 there is growing evidence that his actions million air travelers worldwide every day, weren’t just a split-second decision but the the idea that one might be harboring a result of days of planning. The revelations dark desire to harm himself and others has have raised questions about who knew prompted deep unease. “A technical mal- what, when, and whether Lubitz could function, a terrorist act, a natural disaster or have been stopped. The crash has prompt- human error - none of these would be so ed particular soul-searching in Germany. troubling,” German weekly Der Spiegel Seventy-two of those killed were German wrote in its latest edition. citizens, the worst air disaster in the As the extent of Lubitz’s illness became nation’s history since the Concorde crash of known in the days following the crash, 2000, in which 97 Germans died. German prosecutors took the unusual step “Germany, a byword for technical per- of providing regular updates on their inves- fection where security isn’t just a hallmark tigation to reassure the public. German of quality but an article of faith and a meas- newspapers, normally at pains to protect ure of value, has been traumatized,” histori- the identity of even convicted criminals, an Michael Stuermer wrote in an op-ed spelled out the co-pilot’s full name to indi- Saturday for Die Welt newspaper. cate the gravity of his alleged deeds NAIROBI: A survivor of an attack by Islamism gunmen claimed by Al-Shabab on a university campus in Garissa, northern Kenya is comforted by Investigators have pieced together a pic- a colleague. — AFP ture of Lubitz by analyzing the voice and New mandates flight data recorders found at the crash site, Meanwhile, the country’s airlines swiftly searching his homes in Duesseldorf and mandated that two people have to remain Montabaur, and by interviewing friends, in the cockpit at all times, while politicians Kenya names law graduate as relatives, colleagues and doctors. debated the need to relax patient privacy rules - prompting a swift rebuke from med- Suicidal tendencies ical associations who warned that rash gunman in student massacre So far, this is what they have communi- changes to the rules could undermine cated about their findings: Medical records patients’ confidence in doctors and prevent show that before he received his pilot’s them from seeking help, doing greater Described as a ‘brilliant upcoming lawyer’ license, Lubitz suffered from depression, harm than good. with doctors recording “suicidal tenden- Few commentators, however, have NAIROBI: Kenya authorities have named one of “We deeply feel the pain of the loss of young with the attack, including three “coordinators” cap- cies.” It forced him to take a break of several raised the possibility that Lufthansa, a the gunmen who killed 148 people in a university lives,” he added in a statement, warning that the tured as they fled towards Somalia, and two others months from his pilot training. Lufthansa national institution, may have made any massacre as an ethnic Somali Kenyan national and Shebab was aiming to “create religious conflict”. in the university. The two arrested on campus has said Lubitz informed their flight school avoidable mistakes. Instead, they have law graduate, highlighting the Al-Qaeda-linked Pope Francis called the killings “senseless brutali- included a security guard and a Tanzanian found when he returned in 2009 that he had pointed to similar incidents that are Shebab’s ability to recruit within the country. ty”, while the Cairo-based top Sunni Muslim body “hiding in the ceiling” and holding grenades, the experienced an episode of “severe depres- believed to have taken place in Namibia, Interior ministry spokesman Mwenda Njoka said Al-Azhar has condemned the “terrorist act com- interior ministry said. sion.” But Germanwings, the Lufthansa sub- the United States and Indonesia over the high-flying Abdirahim Abdullahi was “a university mitted by Somalia’s Shebab”. A $215,000 (200,000 euro) bounty has also sidiary Lubitz joined in 2013, said it was past two decades. of Nairobi law graduate and described by a person On Saturday, Shebab warned of a “long, grue- been offered for alleged Shebab commander unaware of this. But both airlines say Lubitz Conservative daily Frankfurter who knows him well as a brilliant upcoming some war” unless Kenya withdrew its troops from Mohamed Mohamud, a former Kenyan teacher passed all medical tests and was cleared by Allgemeine Zeitung concluded that “ulti- lawyer”. Somalia, and threatened “another bloodbath”. said to be the mastermind behind the attack. The doctors as fit to fly. mately Lufthansa’s system failed.” However, The spokesman said Abdullahi’s father, a local Hours after the Shebab’s warning, police in Garissa Shebab fled their power base Somalia’s capital In the months before the crash Lubitz given that Lubitz appeared to have gone to official in the northeastern county of Mandera, paraded four corpses of the gunmen piled on top Mogadishu in 2011, and continue to battle an sought help from several doctors, including great lengths to conceal the extent of his had “reported to the authorities that his son had of each other face down in the back of a pick-up African Union force, AMISOM, sent to drive them specialists at Duesseldorf’s University illness, the paper questioned whether any gone missing and suspected the boy had gone to truck. out that includes troops from Burundi, Djibouti, Hospital. The hospital declined to confirm system could ever account for what goes Somalia”. Describing Abdullahi as an A-grade stu- Five men have also been arrested in connection Ethiopia, Kenya and Uganda. — AFP reports that Lubitz was experiencing vision on inside a person’s head. Others evoked dent, Njoka said it was “critical that parents whose problems, but said he had come in for tests. the phenomenon of the “Geisterfahrer” - a children go missing or show tendencies of having Duesseldorf prosecutors say there was no German term meaning “ghost driver” been exposed to violent extremism report to evidence the co-pilot had any physical ail- describing someone who drives the wrong authorities”. Airstrikes pummel Shabab ments. way down the Autobahn, endangering Kenya entered the second of three days of In the week leading up to the crash himself and others. The notion of an national mourning yesterday for those killed in last after university massacre Lubitz spent time online researching sui- unstoppable yet ultimately rare incident week’s massacre, the vast majority of who were NAIROBI: Kenyan fighter jets pounded Al- strikes in southern Somalia since their troops cide methods and cockpit door security. resonated in Spain, which counted 51 of its students. Hundreds had packed Nairobi’s Anglican Qaeda-linked Shabab insurgent camps in crossed into their war-torn neighbour in 2011 Safety rules introduced after the Sept 11, citizens among the dead.—AP cathedral on Sunday, where Archbishop Eliud southern Somalia yesterday, the army said, to attack Shebab bases, with Nairobi later join- Wabukala said Easter services were overshadowed days after the Islamists killed 148 people in ing the African Union force fighting the by “great and terrible evil” as police patrolled out- their worst ever massacre in Kenya. The Islamists. side. airstrikes, which the army said destroyed two “The bombings are part of the continued “These terrorists want to cause divisions in our Islamist bases, came on the second day of process and engagement against Al-Shebab, society, but we shall tell them, ‘You will never pre- national mourning in Kenya, and as security which will go on,” Obonyo added. The Shebab vail’,” the archbishop said. Somalia’s Shebab mili- forces tried to hunt down those behind the fled their power base in Somalia’s capital tants attacked the university in the northeastern university killings. Mogadishu in 2011, and continue to battle the town of Garissa at dawn on Thursday, lining up The massacre, Kenya’s deadliest attack AU force, AMISOM, sent to drive them out. It non-Muslim students for execution in what since the 1998 bombing of the US embassy in includes troops from Burundi, Djibouti, President Uhuru Kenyatta described as a “barbaric Nairobi, claimed the lives of 142 students, Ethiopia, Kenya and Uganda. medieval slaughter”. Although Kenyatta has three police officers and three soldiers. “We The group has carried out a string of vowed to retaliate “in the severest way possible”, bombed two Shebab camps in the Gedo revenge attacks in neighboring countries, there have also been calls for national unity. He region,” Kenyan army spokesman David notably Kenya and Uganda, in response to said people’s “justified anger” should not lead to Obonyo said, without giving details about any their participation in the AU force. On “the victimization of anyone”-a clear reference to possible casualties in the lawless region bor- Saturday, Shebab warned of a “long, grue- Kenya’s large Muslim and Somali minorities in a dering Kenya. “The two targets were hit and some war” unless Kenya withdrew its troops country where 80 percent of the population is taken out, the two camps are destroyed.” from Somalia, and threatened “another blood- Christian. The airstrikes follow threats by President bath”. Shebab fighters also carried out the Uhuru Kenyatta that he would retaliate “in the Westgate shopping mall attack in Nairobi in ‘We must stand together’ severest way possible” against the Shebab mil- September 2013, a four-day siege which left at The massacre, Kenya’s deadliest attack since the itants for their attack on Thursday. The Shebab least 67 people dead. 1998 bombing of the US embassy in Nairobi, gunmen launched the pre-dawn attack in Five men have also been arrested in con- claimed the lives of 142 students, three police offi- Garissa, storming dormitory buildings before nection with the university attack, including cers and three soldiers. Top Muslim and Christian lining up non-Muslim students for execution three alleged “coordinators” captured as they leaders also offered their condolences. “Kenya is at in what Kenyatta described as a “barbaric fled towards Somalia, and two others in the war, and we must all stand together,” said Hassan medieval slaughter.” university. The two arrested on campus includ- Ole Naado, the deputy head of the Supreme ed a security guard and a Tanzanian found Council of Kenya Muslims, saying the organisation Battle against extremists “hiding in the ceiling” and holding grenades, HAMBURG: Picture released on March 27, 2015 shows the co-pilot of Germanwings was helping to raise money for the funerals of Kenyan airplanes have made repeated the interior ministry said.— AFP flight 4U9525 Andreas Lubitz taking part in the Airport Hamburg 10-mile run on those killed and the medical costs of the scores of September 13, 2009. — AFP wounded. TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 INTERNATIONAL

Air India grounds pilots due to fight in cockpit

NEW DELHI: Struggling state-run carrier Air India request to write down critical information for the ing there was only a verbal argument between the since 2007 — has been hit by a string of technical has grounded two of its pilots after a fight erupted flight, such as the number of passengers on board, pair, according to the Press Trust of India. “There glitches and other embarrassing incidents, includ- between the pair just before takeoff, reports said take-off weight and fuel uptake, the Times of India were only heated exchanges between the com- ing staff turning up late for flights. Many airlines yesterday. The co-pilot allegedly assaulted the cap- reported. “The co-pilot took offence at this and mander and co-pilot over some issue. We have have introduced a rule requiring two crew in the tain inside the cockpit as they were preparing the reportedly beat up the captain,” the newspaper said, already de-rostered the two pilots pending an cockpit at all times following the crash of a passenger plane for takeoff from the Indian tourist quoting unnamed sources. “In the larger interest of enquiry,” an Air India spokesman told the news Germanwings plane last month. The co-pilot city of Jaipur to New Delhi on Sunday night, the the airline the commander decided to go ahead agency. The carrier could not be reached for com- Andreas Lubitz deliberately smashed the plane into Hindustan Times newspaper said. with the flight and flew to Delhi,” the daily added. ment. the French Alps after locking the captain out of the The co-pilot was irritated by his superior’s The airline denied any violence took place, say- Air India-which has not reported an annual profit cockpit, killing all 150 people on board. — AFP S Lanka, Pak sign nuke agreement

ISLAMABAD: Sri Lanka and Pakistan Speaking at a press conference with signed six agreements including one on Pakistan’s Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, atomic energy yesterday, the two coun- Sirisena said: “At critical moments in our tries’ leaders said, as the strategically post-independent histories we have important island looks to build its first stood in solidarity with each other,” nuclear plant. Details of the agreement adding he was “profoundly grateful for were not immediately available but it the strong support in the fight against comes after Sri Lanka signed a pact with terrorism” by Pakistan. “We discussed India in February to build its atomic ener- regional and international agreements gy infrastructure, including training of and signed six agreements in the fields of personnel. disaster management, sports, shipping, Sri Lanka’s new president Maithripala atomic energy... and in narcotics and aca- Sirisena swept to power in January, end- demic cooperation,” he added. ing a decade of rule by Mahinda Pakistan currently has three opera- Rajapakse, and has moved to reduce tional nuclear plants generating a total of China’s influence in his country, which around 740 MW of power and has begun had irked India. His arrived in Pakistan work on two more, including a 2,200- Sunday for a three-day state visit has megawatt station to be built with been watched by observers for clues over Chinese technical assistance on the any further changes in Colombo’s foreign Arabian Sea coast at Paradise Beach, 40 policy. kilometers west of Karachi. Earlier Sharif Pakistan and Sri Lanka have tradition- had spoken of his desire to improve trade ally enjoyed strong ties, particularly over and economic relations. Sirisena will also defense, with Islamabad providing mili- meet Pakistan’s President Mamnoon tary assistance during the war against Hussain during his visit and is due to Tamil Tiger guerrillas that ended in 2009. leave today. — AFP JAMMU: In this photograph taken on March 2, 2015, Hindu refugee from West Pakistan, Mangu Ram (82) sits on a charpoy inside his concrete shanty in Surej Chak. — AFP Kashmir’s Hindus look to Modi for salvation A plight being ignored by the government

JAMMU: Seven decades after fleeing the car- came second, they have joined a Kashmir gov- ance in India’s only Muslim-majority state which nage of partition, Mangu Ram is still regarded as erning coalition for the first time and are expect- has special autonomy enshrined in the constitu- a second class citizen in Indian Kashmir, unable ed to champion the WPRs’ cause. tion. to own property or vote in state elections. But, “We have been living here like this for three The WPRs, whose families mainly originate now aged 82, Ram is daring to hope he will final- generations now,” said veteran activist Labha from Punjab, have fallen foul of a pre-indepen- ly be able to shed his refugee status after Prime Ram Gandhi. “Granting us state-subject rights is dence law that only grants citizenship to people Minister Narendra Modi’s Hindu nationalist party the only way to improve our condition.” Despite born-or descendants of those born-in the old won a share of power in India’s only Muslim- prevailing unrest, Kashmir is one of India’s more undivided kingdom of Kashmir. The same legis- majority state. prosperous states. The estimated 18,000 WPR lation has allowed around 35,000 Hindus who DHAKA: Bangladeshi secular activists celebrate after a review petition relating to the case “If something can be done, then maybe I will families however live in abject poverty, mostly have fled Pakistan-controlled Kashmir since par- of a Jamaat-e-Islami political party leader was dismissed by the Supreme Court. — AFP finally have some enjoyment in this life,” says the marrying among themselves because of their tition to be granted citizenship. traditional healer, speaking in a slum home on low economic status. the outskirts of Jammu, Kashmir’s winter capital. “I spend whatever money I earn to send my ‘I was born here’ “If only the gods could show us some mercy.” A children to school,” said Ramesh Kumar, a part- Kumar says the law is ridiculous. “I was born Bangladesh Islamist Hindu, Ram was born in pre-independence India time driver. “My fear is their fate is going to be here (in India). My roots are here. What else do I in an area of Punjab province which became the same as mine,” added Kumar, who lives with and my children need to be citizens of this part of Pakistan. his wife, two children and mother in a two-room place?” As things stand, Kumar’s children cannot defeated in last appeal Hundreds of thousands of families fled across hovel. The family’s only permanent income is the be admitted to state-run training colleges or be both sides of the border during the 1947 parti- $100 monthly pension his mother receives after employed in the state government, although against hanging tion of the sub-continent, when around one mil- her husband died serving in the army. they can work for the federal one. lion people were killed in communal violence. Like many WPRs, Kumar hopes the BJP’s pres- The WPRs are widely seen as victims of the DHAKA: A Bangladeshi Islamist leader independent Bangladesh from what was Most of those refugees were quickly absorbed in ence in the state and federal governments will broader dispute over Kashmir, a captivating lost his final appeal yesterday against a then East Pakistan. Prosecutors said towns and cities of the newly-independent yield a change in fortunes. As well as the mani- Himalayan region between India and Pakistan nations. However the fate of the WPRs (West festo pledge, hopes of a breakthrough were also and claimed in full by both. Successive state death sentence for overseeing a mas- Kamaruzzaman presided over the mas- Pakistan Refugees) who decamped to Jammu raised in January when a committee of lawmak- governments have ignored requests by their sacre during the 1971 independence sacre of at least 120 unarmed farmers and Kashmir State became mired in the dispute ers in the BJP-dominated national parliament federal counterparts for a “one-time” settlement war, sparking protests by his supporters who were lined up and gunned down in with Pakistan over the territory, prompting its recommended the WPRs be granted permanent of the Hindu refugees, fearing a backlash from that left one dead. Mohammad the remote northern village of Sohagpur. rulers to hold off granting them residential resident status. But the WPRs have been disap- Muslims whose numbers have fallen six percent Kamaruzzaman, the third most senior Three women who lost their husbands rights, including the right to buy land or vote in pointed by the absence of a similar commitment since 1947. Kashmir’s Hindu population has figure in the Jamaat-e-Islami party, could testified against him in one of the most state polls. Around 100,000 people are classified in the recent agreement signed by the BJP and risen by five percent in the same period. now be hanged within days or even emotive of all the war crimes trials. as WPRs, most living in the Jammu region. its regional partner in Kashmir’s coalition. The Rashtriya Swayamsawak Sang (RSS), an hours for the slaughter at the so-called Kamaruzzaman’s lawyers had tried to Hardly any of them have ever set foot in “We were expecting something to happen influential Hindu group whose alumni include “Village of Widows”. convince the Supreme Court there were Pakistan. Their plight has been effectively about our rights after the BJP came into govern- Modi, has advocated settling “Hindu patriots” His lawyer Shishir Manir said authori- “serious discrepancies” in the witness tes- ignored by the federal government in Delhi and ment. We are still hopeful,” said Kumar. “At least in Kashmir. Separatists opposed to Indian rule ties have asked Kamaruzzaman’s family timonies. Jamaat, the country’s largest successive state administrations, citing legal bar- our situation is being discussed in the assembly insist the WPRs must settle in states where to meet him at Dhaka’s main jail later Islamist party, is an ally of the main riers. but we expect the BJP and Modi Ji to do more Hindus are in a majority. Gandhi however said yesterday “on an emergency basis”. “It opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party than just improve our livelihoods,” he said, using the WPRs’ patience is exhausted and they are seems the authorities are making prepa- (BNP), whose leader Khaleda Zia is trying Three generations a term of respect. Observers say the reluctance ready to take matters into their own hands if rations to execute him,” Manir said. In the to topple Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s But, in its manifesto for December’s state of successive state governments to grant full their hopes are dashed again. “We will spill southern coastal town of Noakhali, secular government. elections, Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party pledged rights to the overwhelmingly Hindu WPRs stems our blood on the streets for our rights,” he police opened fire on around a dozen to normalize the WPRs’ status. Although the BJP from fears of upsetting the demographic bal- said. — AFP Jamaat supporters after they took to the ‘Show him no mercy’ streets to protest at the court’s decision. Jamaat’s members have been accused “We fired in self-defence after they of being behind a number of deadly fire- hurled rocks at us,” local police chief bomb attacks since the start of the year, Storms kill 37 in Bangladesh Anwar Hossain said, saying the protester including on buses. The party branded was killed during the live firing and yesterday’s ruling a “government conspir- DHAKA: At least 37 people were killed when another was injured. Supreme Court acy to murder” its leader and called a powerful storms swept Bangladesh at the Chief Justice SK Sinha ruled that a review nationwide strike on Tuesday and weekend and left a trail of devastation in the petition filed by Kamaruzzaman’s lawyers Wednesday in protest. Jamaat and the northwest, officials said yesterday. Rescuers and villagers recovered the bodies of victims had been dismissed and a death sen- BNP have previously charged that the after the storms flattened thousands of houses, tence passed in 2013 should stand. war crimes trials are mainly aimed at uprooted trees and electricity poles and dam- The 62-year-old’s only chance of silencing Hasina’s opponents rather than aged paddy fields across a large area on avoiding the gallows will be if he is delivering justice. Hasina’s government Saturday night and Sunday. granted clemency by President Abdul says the trials-which lack any internation- Nineteen people died in the northern dis- Hamid. But analysts say the prospect of al oversight-are needed to heal the trict of Bogra, government administrator of the clemency is remote because the ruling wounds of the conflict. district Shafiqur Reza Biswas said, adding that effectively confirms allegations that he Widows and relatives of the Sohagpur more than 100 people were injured. “They died was one of the chief organizers of a pro- victims welcomed the verdict, along with mostly after they were hit by falling trees or Pakistan militia which killed thousands of secular activists. “Our only demand is collapsed houses and walls,” he said, adding people. Law Minister Anisul Huq told that he is executed in the quickest possi- that authorities have sent emergency relief to reporters that Kamaruzzaman “will be ble time. There should be no mercy for thousands of villagers. executed as soon as possible” if he refus- him,” said Mohammad Jalal Uddin, a In neighbouing Rajshahi district, at least five es to seek presidential clemency. Sohagpur farmer who lost seven mem- people were killed and 27 injured as the storm bers of his extended family in the killing. hit a large stretch of low-lying land, another Testimony challenged “I’ve spoken to the widows. Thirty-two administrator said. “At least 6,960 mud and tin- Kamaruzzaman would be only the of them are still alive. They are very hap- built houses were completely damaged by the second Islamist so far to be hanged for py hearing the news of the verdict,” said storm,” said Mejbah Uddin Chowdhury. In the war crimes, even though several are Uddin, who leads a charity supporting western district of Kushtia two people died and under sentence of death. Another the widows. Bangladesh suffered its around 100 houses were flattened on Sunday. Jamaat leader, Abdul Quader Molla, was deadliest chapter of political violence in Two died from lightning strikes as the storm hit executed in December 2013, just hours 2013 after the war crimes court handed the southern port city of Chittagong on after his review petition was rejected by down a series of death sentences on Monday, government officials said. the Supreme Court. A controversial Jamaat leaders for their role in the 1971 There were also fatalities in at least nine oth- domestic war crimes tribunal convicted conflict. Hasina, whose late father was er districts, officials told local media, bringing Kamaruzzaman in May 2013 on charges regarded as the leader of the independ- the death toll to 37. Storms known locally as of torture, abduction and mass killings in ence movement, says three million peo- Kalboishakhi often hit Bangladesh during the his role as a leader of the al-Badr militia ple were killed in the war, although inde- early summer in the lead-up to the monsoon, during the war. pendent experts put the death toll much which usually begins about the first week of BOGRA: In this photograph taken on April 5, 2015, a Bangladeshi victim gathers her belong- The conflict led to the creation of an lower. — AFP June. — AFP ings near her home which was destroyed during storms. — AFP INTERNATIONAL TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 S Korea prez considers salvaging sunken ferry

SEOUL: South Korean President Park ple, including 325 high school students, capital on Sunday that called on the main causes. The official response to cials to key posts in the 17-member Geun-Hye promised yesterday to con- when it sank off the southeast coast on government to raise the sunken vessel the disaster was widely criticized for inquiry committee. sider raising the Sewol ferry that sank a April 16 last year. Only 75 students sur- and to ensure a fully independent being slow, uncoordinated and unfo- More than 50 people have been put year ago with the loss of more than 300 vived. inquiry into the disaster. cused, and prompted President Park to on trial on charges linked to the disaster, lives, in response to an emotional Ahead of next week’s first anniver- A total of 304 bodies were recovered vow a complete overhaul of national including 15 crew members-who were protest by victims’ relatives. “I will active- sary of the tragedy, hundreds of parents from the ferry, but nine remained unac- safety standards. Following months of among the first to climb into lifeboats. ly consider salvaging the ship after of the dead students-some with their counted for when divers finally called political bickering, the South Korean The Sewol’s captain was jailed in accepting the opinions of relatives of heads shaved and clad in white mourn- off the dangerous search in November. parliament passed a bill in November November for 36 years for gross negli- those still missing and experts,” Park’s ing robes-marched 35 kilometers to The tragedy sparked nationwide grief initiating an independent investigation gence and dereliction of duty, while official website quoted her as saying Seoul from their hometown Ansan over and outrage as it became clear that reg- into the sinking. But relatives have three other senior crew members were during a meeting with senior aides. The the weekend. They were joined by hun- ulatory failings, official incompetence accused the government of seeking to sentenced to jail terms of between 15 overloaded Sewol was carrying 476 peo- dreds more supporters for a rally in the and the ship’s illegal redesign were the influence the probe by appointing offi- and 30 years. — AFP Pentagon chief goes east as Asia comes into focus Region most important to the United States

WASHINGTON: Islamic extremists grab parts of Iraq and Syria. Yemen slides into civil war. Iran’s nuclear program strains US relations with Israel. Ukraine fights Russian-backed separatists. At a time of crisis across the Middle East and beyond, the Obama administration is trying to keep its focus on a widely advertised shift to Asia. The administration has pursued the strategy since 2011, arguing that no region is more important to the United States’ long-term inter- ests, particularly as the rise of China brings con- CANBERRA: Britain’s Prince Harry places a poppy at the Roll of Honor during a visit to cern in other Asian capitals. Defense Secretary the Australian War Memorial. — AFP Ash Carter will visit Japan and South Korea this week, part of a series of planned trips to the region during his first year as Pentagon chief. He Britain’s Prince Harry in will visit India and attend an international securi- ty conference in Singapore in May, and he may Australia for army stint visit China later in the year.

SYDNEY: Prince Harry reported for duty said in a statement announcing his arrival Rebalancing Asia with the Australian Army yesterday to begin last week. “These will include urban train- Before he became defense secretary in an “authentic” experience featuring bush ing exercises, regional bush patrols, flight February, Carter was a supporter of what the patrols and indigenous engagement, as he simulation and aviation activities, joint fire Obama administration calls its “rebalance” to prepares to retire from the British military. exercises and indigenous engagement Asia. That term meant to rebut the implication WASHINGTON: In this March 18, 2015 file photo, Defense Secretary Ash Carter listens on Hundreds of well-wishers turned out to see activities.” that by giving more attention to Asia, Capitol Hill. To put a spotlight back on Asia, Carter will visit Japan and South Korea this week, the 30-year-old prince at the National War Washington is pivoting away from its traditional the first of a string of planned trips to the region during his first year as Pentagon chief. — AP Memorial in Canberra-the one scheduled ‘Authentic military experience’ allies in Europe and its extensive commitments public event of his visit-before he met with The prince, who has flown Apache heli- in the Mideast. While serving as the deputy sec- the country’s use of force, but Abe last year US relations with Japan and South Korea are the head of the Australian Defence Force copters for Britain, has reportedly also asked retary of defense, Carter said in May 2013 that approved a reinterpretation of the constitution, strong, but the alliances are sometimes tested (ADF), Air Chief Marshal Mark Binskin. to fly choppers in Australia. A defence official international terrorism, persistent Mideast tur- and his government has proposed legislation to by differing views on how to handle North Wearing a white dress uniform, he has said checks would need to be carried out moil, nuclear proliferation and cyber threats enable defense changes. A strategic goal shared Korea’s periodic provocations and China’s rapid reported for duty at Duntroon Military first. Building on Prince Harry’s interest in vet- would continue to require Pentagon attention. by Tokyo and Washington is for Japan to partici- military modernization. A new assessment of the College, delivering a letter to Binskin from erans affairs, opportunities to meet with “We also see great opportunities: Among pate in what is known as collective self-defense, outlook for Asian security, released Thursday by Queen Elizabeth II in which she wrote her wounded, injured and ill service personnel them, to shift the great weight of the meaning that it could come to the aid of an ally the Carnegie Endowment for International grandson would “benefit greatly from will also be provided while in Australia. Department of Defense, both intellectual and under attack even if that did not entail a direct Peace, argues that although Asian “hot wars” spending time with the Australian diggers”. The Australian military said it hopes to physical, that has been devoted to Iraq and attack on Japan or its own military. cannot be ruled out, a continuation of the status After jetting in from Sydney, Prince Harry provide the prince with “an authentic military Afghanistan, to the Asia-Pacific region, where quo is a more likely scenario over the next five to arrived to cheers from the crowd of some experience in the Australian Army”, adding America will continue to play its seven-decade- China opposition 25 years. This would likely mean a mix of eco- 1,000 people at the war memorial in that it will include routine activities, such as old pivotal stabilizing role into the future,” Carter Carter plans to cap his week in Asia with nomic cooperation and intensifying military Canberra where he laid a wreath on the physical training, first aid training and pack said then. meetings with South Korean government offi- competition and rivalry. Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and toured marches. The Australian army attachment His Tokyo visit beginning today is meant in cials in Seoul and visit US troops. Among the The assessment was requested by the galleries on World War I and Afghanistan. comes as Prince Harry, a graduate from the part to smooth the way for Japanese Prime hottest defense topics in South Korea is the Pentagon and is part of a larger study sponsored The energetic royal then waved off the elite Sandhurst military academy who served Minister Shinzo Abe’s visit to Washington in late prospect of deploying an advanced US missile by the US Pacific Command. “Allies remain con- option of an umbrella and spent time greet- twice in Afghanistan, has announced his April. That trip will coincide with a historic defense system, called the Theater High Altitude cerned about the sustainability of US predomi- ing the crowd outside despite drizzling rain. departure from the British Army. reworking of the guidelines that govern US- Area Defense, or THAAD. The US is thought to nance in the region,” the study said. “Many As some chanted “Harry, Harry, Harry”, the “After a decade of service, moving on Japan defense cooperation in a way intended to want to place the weapon system in South Korea assume the United States will not retain its pre- prince made his way around the barricades, from the army has been a really tough deci- give Japan’s self-defense forces a more active as a defense against North Korean ballistic mis- dominance - or that it already is lost - and expect and spoke to a ginger-haired child with a sion,” he said last month, revealing he will role in Asian security. siles, but Seoul has balked, in part out of con- increased US demands on allies for important poster reading “Redheads Rule”. “He said quit in June. “The experiences I have had Japan’s post-World War II constitution limits cern that China opposes the move. security functions.” — AP that I was fabulous in making the sign and over the last 10 years will stay with me for it’s awesome to be a redhead,” a delighted the rest of my life. For that I will always be Ethan Toscan, 12, told Australian Associated hugely grateful.” Harry earned a reputation Press. “I’m over the moon-it’s just wow! I got as a wild-child in his early 20s with his par- US, Philippines doubles to shake his hand!” ty-going high jinks, but has since tried to During his time Down Under, Captain carve out a more mature role for himself, Wales, as he is known in the British Army, with his devotion to military service playing will be embedded with Australian army a major part. The prince will break his annual war games size units and regiments in Sydney, Darwin and attachment to travel to Turkey later this Perth. “He is expected to take part in a month for the Anzac Day dawn service at range of unit-based activities and training Gallipoli, to mark the centenary since that MANILA: The United States and the Philippines Philippines and its former colonial ruler. on April 20, will also be held on the central exercises,” the Australian Defence Force World War I campaign. — AFP will double the size of their annual war games island of Panay, Palawan in the southwest and a this month, with some exercises to be staged Enhancing military activities former American airbase north of Manila. close to a South China Sea flashpoint, the “The higher strength of Balikatan 2015 for Cabunoc said the exercises involved maritime Singapore arrests duo over Filipino military said yesterday. this year only reflects the Philippines’ and the security and disaster response drills, as well as The 10-day exercises between the long-time United States’ growing commitment to enhance civic projects. Spokespeople for the US and allies will be held as fears grow in the Philippines our capability to conduct joint military and non- Chinese embassies in Manila were unavailable protest outside govt office that China is seeking to take control of the military activities,” Cabunoc said. He said the for comment on Monday. The Philippines has strategically vital and resource-rich sea. Nearly decision to expand the numbers involved in the repeatedly protested at China’s increasingly SINGAPORE: Two Singaporean men have ed by Lee, has been criticized for clamping 12,000 soldiers will be involved in this year’s edi- games was not directed at China, which claims assertive actions in the South China Sea and has been arrested for staging a weekend down on civil liberties, including the free- tion in several locations in the Philippines, nearly all of the South China Sea, even waters sought closer military ties with the United States protest outside the government complex dom of speech and assembly. Outdoor including a naval station directly facing the dis- and reefs close to Southeast Asian nations and in an effort to counter it. The US and Philippines that houses the offices of the president and protests outside Singapore’s sole free- puted waters, military spokesman Lieutenant far from its nearest major landmass. signed an agreement last year that will allow a prime minister, police said yesterday. The speech park are rare. Such events require Colonel Harold Cabunoc said. However, part of the exercises will be held larger American military presence in the men, aged 24 and 25, “turned up at the police permits, which are rarely granted. That number, which includes 6,600 American from Zambales naval base, which is located 220 Philippines. However it has not yet been imple- front gate of the Istana with placards” on Photos circulated on social media troops, compares with a total of 5,500 soldiers kilometers east of Scarborough Shoal in the mented, as the Supreme Court is hearing chal- Saturday afternoon, a Singapore Police showed the two protestors, clad in red who participated in last year’s Balikatan (shoul- South China Sea. The shoal is a rich fishing lenges to it from anti-US groups. Aside from the Force spokesman said. hoodies and jeans, each carrying a large der-to-shoulder) exercises, Cabunoc said. He ground within the Philippines’ exclusive eco- Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and “The duo refused to stop their activity white placard while standing outside the emphasized the expanded war games highlight- nomic zone but has been controlled by China Taiwan also have competing claims to parts of despite officers requesting them to do so,” main gate of the Istana. One read “You can’t ed the deepening military alliance between the since 2012. The Balikatan exercises, which start the South China Sea. — AFP the police spokesman said. “The duo were silence the people”, while the other read subsequently arrested for organizing a “Injustice”. The heavily guarded 106-acre public assembly without a permit under... (42.9 hectares) Istana complex, built by the Public Order Act,” he added. Police British colonial administrators, is currently investigations “are ongoing”, the the official workplace of the senior Lee’s spokesman said, without providing further son, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, and details. It was the second act of protest in President Tony Tan. It was also Lee Kuan the city-state since founding Prime Minister Yew’s workplace until his death at age 91 Lee Kuan Yew died on March 23. Last after a long illness. His family held a two- Tuesday, a 16-year-old Singaporean stu- day private wake at the Istana-which dent was charged with jailable offences for means ‘palace’ in Malay — before his anti-Christianity slurs in a YouTube video remains were transferred to parliament to criticizing Lee, who ruled the country with lie in state. He was cremated on March 29 an iron hand as prime minister from 1959 after a grand state funeral.Under to 1990 before becoming an influential Singapore’s Public Order Act, participants adviser in the cabinet. in illegal protests can be fined up to Singapore has been hailed internation- Sg$5,000 ($3,700). Organizers of such ally for its economic achievements but the protests face a fine of up to Sg$10,000, a jail long-ruling People’s Action Party, co-found- term of up to six months, or both. — AFP Malaysia arrests 17 in suspected terror plot KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s police chief said chief Khalid Abu Bakar said in a Twitter post- yesterday that 17 people, including two who ing. Khalid said the arrests took place recently returned from Syria, had been Sunday. No other details, such as the sus- arrested on suspicion of plotting terror pects’ nationalities or specifics on what they attacks in the capital Kuala Lumpur. had been plotting, were mentioned. Authorities in the Muslim-majority country Reporters were not immediately able to have expressed increasing alarm over the reach anti-terrorism officials for comment. threat of Muslim militancy in the wake of the Malaysia has traditionally observed a moder- Islamic State (IS) group’s bloody jihad in Syria ate form of Islam, and authorities have kept a and Iraq. tight lid on militancy. But the government “Seventeen people were planning terror has increasingly warned that Malaysian activities in Kuala Lumpur. Two of them had recruits to the IS cause could return home MAGUINDANAO PROVINCE: This photo taken on March 31, 2015 shows an Armored Personnel Carrier (APC) travelling along a road in Southern recently returned from Syria,” national police with the group’s radical ideology. —AFP Philippines. NEWS TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015

A Kashmiri fisherman paddles his boat on Dal Lake during sunset in Srinagar on Sunday. — AFP

Obama promises ‘tough conversation’... Rolling Stone retracts rape story... Continued from Page 1 finding anyone who matched “Jackie’s” description of a key Continued from Page 1 ed the most effective way to keep Iran from obtaining a assailant. nuclear weapon, but insisted he would keep all options been adjudicated,” the study’s authors write. Entitled “A In that pressure cooker atmosphere, Rolling Stone com- “...that perhaps will ease some of their concerns and on the table if Tehran were to violate the terms. “I’ve Rape on Campus”, the story in question graphically described missioned Columbia Journalism School dean Steve Coll to allow them to have a more fruitful conversation with the been very clear that Iran will not get a nuclear weapon a young woman’s memory of being sexually assaulted during research the circumstances around the piece’s publication. It Iranians,” he said. on my watch, and I think they should understand that a 2012 fraternity party at Phi Kappa Psi and faulted college will now replace Erdely’s original story on Rolling Stone’s But the president said their biggest danger came not we mean it,” Obama said in the interview. “But I say that administrators for not doing enough to help the victim and website. Coll and Coronel later discussed their investigation from a possible attack from Iran but from dissatisfaction hoping that we can conclude this diplomatic arrange- punish the alleged perpetrators. It caused a media sensation at a news conference yesterday in New York. inside their own countries, including from alienated, ment - and that it ushers a new era in US-Iranian rela- when it was published last November, coming on the heels In a forward to the report, Dana described it as “painful unemployed youth and a sense that there was no politi- tions - and, just as importantly, over time, a new era in of a number of high-profile rape cases at elite universities reading” but lauded Coll and his co-authors Derek Kravitz and cal outlet for grievances. So as well as giving military Iranian relations with its neighbors.” such as Yale and Harvard. It was published amidst calls by Sheila Coronel for producing “a fascinating document”. “We support, the United States must ask: “How can we The president said there are many details that still government officials and activists for greater action around would like to apologize to our readers and to all of those who strengthen the body politic in these countries, so that need to be worked out with the Iranians and cautioned the problem of sexual violence on college campuses. were damaged by our story and the ensuing fallout, includ- Sunni youth feel that they’ve got something other than that there would be “real political difficulties” in imple- However, Erdely’s reporting did not withstand public ing members of the Phi Kappa Psi fraternity and UVA admin- (the Islamic State) to choose from,” Obama said. “That’s a menting an agreement in both countries. He reiterated scrutiny and accounts in the Washington Post and other out- istrators and students,” Dana wrote. “Sexual assault is a seri- tough conversation to have, but it’s one that we have to his opposition to a legislation that would give the US lets raised questions about the credibility of the subject of ous problem on college campuses, and it is important that have,” he said. Congress final say in approving or rejecting a deal, but her story, a woman she had dubbed “Jackie”. Among other rape victims feel comfortable stepping forward. It saddens us Obama is casting the Iran talks as part of a broader said he hoped to find a path to allow Congress to incongruities, these reports found that no party took place to think that their willingness to do so might be diminished on the night in question at Phi Kappa Psi and had difficulty by our failings.” — Agencies foreign policy doctrine that sees American power as a “express itself”. safeguard that gives him the ability to take calculated On the substance of the Iran framework agreement, risks. Obama has staunchly defended the framework Obama outlined more specifics of how the US would nuclear agreement with Iran as a “once-in-a-lifetime seek to verify that Tehran wasn’t cheating. He said there Saudis seek Pak jets, ships, troops opportunity” to prevent a bomb and bring longer-term would be an “international mechanism” that would Continued from Page 1 ly opposed to sending troops. stability to the Middle East. He insisted the US would assess whether there needed to be an inspection at a Pakistan has a long record of contributing troops to UN stand by Israel if it were to come under attack, but suspicious site and could overrule Iranian objections. Pakistani intervention would probably also anger Shiite peacekeeping missions but public opinion seems largely acknowledged that his pursuit of diplomacy with Tehran The nuclear talks have marked a remarkable shift in power Iran, which shares a long and porous border in a against intervention in any Saudi-led action in Yemen. has caused strain with the close ally. the frozen relationship between the US and Iran. It has region roiling with its own separatist insurgency. Pakistan’s “Pakistan is not Saudi Arabia’s handmaiden, doing its bidding “It’s been a hard period,” Obama said in the interview become normal for officials from both countries to com- other main borders are with arch enemy India and at the flick of a wrist,” the Express Tribune said in an editorial. with Friedman. He added that it is “personally difficult” municate and hold face-to-face meetings. Obama is yet Afghanistan, where Pakistani troops are conducting anti-mili- Many analysts say the military, which has ruled Pakistan for for him to hear his administration accused of not looking to meet with Iranian President Hassan Rouhani, though tant operations. The Iranian foreign minister will visit Pakistan more than half its existence since independence, has the final out for Israel’s interests. “We are powerful enough to be they did speak on the phone. He has also exchanged this week. call. The generals have been silent. able to test these propositions without putting ourselves letters with Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali In the debate yesterday, Aitzaz Ahsan, Senate leader of Pakistan has nearly 1.5 million active soldiers and reserves, at risk,” he said, citing his overtures to Cuba and Khamenei. opposition, demanded Sharif clarify his comments. “What but about a third of those are tied up with operations along Myanmar as other examples of his approach. Obama said the letters include “a lot of reminders of does [defence minister] Khawaja Asif mean by the violation the Afghan border. The bulk of the remaining forces face off The president’s comments come in his seventh year what he perceives as past grievances against Iran.” But he of sovereignty of Saudi Arabia and the strong response from with nuclear-armed India. Others are executing the govern- in office and days after the US and other world powers said the concessions Khamenei allowed his negotiators to Pakistan?” he asked. “If the government wants to send troops ment’s new counter-terrorism plan. Even though Saudi reached a tentative agreement to curb Iran’s nuclear pro- make in the nuclear talks suggests that “he does realize to Yemen or Saudi Arabia, what will their exact mandate be?” Arabia is a “special friend” of both the government and the gram in exchange for sanctions relief. The framework that the sanctions regime that we put together was weak- The session also saw stormy scenes as a major opposition military, Pakistani intervention in Yemen might be unwise, party, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, ended a seven-month said retired Major General Mahmud Ali Durrani, a former cleared the way for negotiators to hammer out technical ening Iran over the long term, and that if in fact he want- long boycott of parliament. PTI boycotted parliament and national security adviser. “If it was to defend Saudi Arabia details ahead of a June 30 deadline for a final deal. ed to see Iran re-enter the community of nations, then occupied part of the capital during months-long street against aggression, in spite of our commitments, I think we Obama argued that successful negotiations present- there were going to have to be changes”. — Agencies protests last year over alleged election rigging. They are firm- would stretch to sending troops,” he said. — Agencies TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 ANALYSIS

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Issues Uncertainty only certainty a month before UK election

By Denis Hiault

n one month, Britain votes in a general election likely to put the nail in the coffin of two party Ipolitics and herald an uncertain future of coali- tions, alliances and horse-trading. Neither of the two parties which have dominated parliament since the 1920s, the Conservatives and the Labour, is expected to win the 326 House of Commons seats out of 650 needed to govern alone. They will likely have to team up with a smaller party or par- ties instead. The prime minister after May 7 will be one of two men - the incumbent, Conservative leader David Cameron, who currently heads a coalition government, or his Labour counterpart Ed Miliband. Those two points aside, the rest is about Greek PM pushed into tightrope act as murky as the River Thames. “We are now in a de facto multi-party system,” said Simon Hix of the By Deepa Babington and Renee Maltezou warned this weekend that any retreat from anti-austerity and anti- retirement, and that it is up to the lenders now. “We won’t condemn London School of Economics (LSE). “A third vote bailout pre-election promises would be suicidal. the country to long-term asphyxiation as previous governments did,” Conservative, a third vote Labour, a third vote irst it was for sale, then the deal was scrapped, then the sell-off “The government will stand firm on its pledges in the face of vile he told yesterday’s Naftemporiki daily. “The real question is, what somebody else.” was back on and now it is to be a joint venture, or maybe not. blackmail and disorienting dilemmas not because of party pressure does the other side propose? The negotiations will come closer to a The BBC’s opinion poll tracker currently puts the FFew issues sum up the confusion of leftist Greek Prime Minister but because such a retreat would be a real ‘Waterloo’ for the govern- conclusion when there is an answer to this question.” centre-right Conservatives on 34 percent and cen- Alexis Tsipras’s first two months in office better than the bewildering ment,” Lafazanis, who is energy minister, told the Agora newspaper, tre-left Labour on 33 percent, followed by the anti- saga of the country’s biggest port, Piraeus, a bastion of militant trade invoking the fall of French Emperor Napoleon. In an early sign of dis- Who’s in Charge? EU UKIP, junior coalition partners the Liberal unionists. His government’s first declaration in January was to say the sent, about 30 out of 149 Syriza lawmakers voiced doubts at a Flip-flopping on issues such as Piraeus has undermined trust with Democrats, the Greens and a string of other parties. asset sale - a key part of Greece’s privatisation program agreed with closed-door meeting about a Feb 20 agreement with lenders that foreign lenders and bred confusion over who is in control and what international creditors - had been cancelled. averted a banking collapse, though only a handful opposed it in the the government’s position is, sources close to the talks said. Some Britain’s Shifting Identity Athens then appeared to change heart: on a trip last month to end, Syriza officials say. paint a picture of a chaotic state stumbling towards bankruptcy. One China, which is a bidder and already runs part of the port, the deputy A fresh impasse with lenders and internal rifts are spurring media source close to talks said foreign negotiators faced a quandary As if that were not complicated enough, the prime minister said the sale would go ahead. Three days later, the speculation that Tsipras may have to call early elections or a referen- because lower-level officials would say they did not have the authori- election is also bringing into focus two important economy minister appeared on television to insist the sale remained dum to avoid caving to lenders’ demands, though his government ty to talk about policy while senior figures spoke only in broad terms ways in which Britain’s identity could change in the halted and that a joint venture would be agreed instead. The same denies any such plan. Even as Greece teeters closer to the financial without the figures to underpin their arguments: “In the end you coming decades. Nationalist parties, particularly day, Greece sent its lenders a list of reforms that cited the Piraeus abyss, there is scant public debate about what might come next. don’t know who is in charge.” the pro-independence Scottish National Party port sale as among the privatisations going ahead. Almost no one publicly advocates defaulting on Greece’s 240 billion The appearance of two different technical negotiators Giorgos (SNP), look set to make major gains, which could Whether the port is actually open for bidders is anybody’s guess. euro debt to the euro zone and the International Monetary Fund. Chouliarakis and economics professor Nikos Theoharakis in talks hasten the loosening and eventual break-up of the Indeed, it is not clear if the government itself knows, given the multi- with lenders has fuelled speculation of a tug of war within the cabi- United Kingdom. Support for the SNP has surged tude of contradictory statements that has come to characterize Red Lines net. The former is said to be close to Deputy Prime Minister Yannis even though Scotland voted against independence Tsipras’s administration. The message is equally confused in talks Polls show Tsipras enjoys support from a stunning 78 percent of Dragasakis, the latter to Varoufakis. The government denies any such in a referendum last year. with foreign creditors that affect the financial survival of the cash- Greeks, but that could quickly evaporate if austerity-weary voters see rift between the officials. Varoufakis has been at the centre of specu- It is expected to win most of Scotland’s House of starved Greek state, one European diplomat involved in talks said. “It him reneging on the pledges that won him election to end painful lation since he dropped out of sight after weeks of whirlwind travel Commons seats in May and says it could be pre- is as cacophonic as it seems,” the diplomat said. spending cuts but stay in the euro zone. Keeping the public on side and sharp-tongued attacks on austerity and the European Central pared to prop up a minority centre-left Labour gov- Inability to agree - much less implement - a common line on pri- is important for Tsipras, who often refers to his “popular mandate” as Bank that made him a media darling but infuriated EU and IMF ernment in return for key concessions. “The UK is vatizations underscores the challenges Tsipras faces to convince the key weapon the pro-bailout opposition lacks. Addressing parlia- lenders. lenders his government is committed to reform and worthy of finan- ment last week, he defined the government’s red lines as avoiding After staying home during Tsipras’ key trips to Brussels and Berlin, now evolving towards a quasi-federal country,” said cial aid. With Athens weeks away from running out of cash, Tsipras pension cuts and mass layoffs, reversing labour market deregulation the outspoken economist reappeared in Washington on Sunday to the LSE’s Tony Travers. He added that the SNP’s has called for an “honest compromise” and held a series of fence- and retaining state control in key asset sales. He appealed for opposi- reassure IMF chief Christine Lagarde that Athens would repay an IMF main aim “would not be to produce a stable gov- mending meetings with European leaders that have helped lower tion support to defy lenders. instalment on time this week. Despite the cacophony, some Syriza ernment in the UK - it would be to have another ref- the tone of acrimony with the euro zone and IMF. “These are our red lines. I want to make clear we won’t back down officials privately say the leftist party is proud of a tradition of letting erendum on Scottish independence”. But the novice prime minister has to juggle divergent voices no matter how much they blackmail us or put pressure on us,” Tsipras members debate openly and that ultimately the party line will hold. Then there is the possibility that Britain could within his own Syriza party and has little room to offer major conces- said. “These are not just Syriza’s red lines but the red lines of the Greek The government has also become more vocal in underlining that it is end up leaving the European Union as a result of sions without undermining support from the public, his party’s far- people, and of Greece during tough negotiations which we all believe not split on core issues like negotiations with lenders. “The Greek del- the election. Cameron has promised to hold an in- left flank and his right-wing coalition partner. Losing any of the three will be effective.” Finance Minister Yanis Varoufakis has gone further, egation is one, tight like a fist, and acts united in line with the gov- out vote by 2017 if the centre-right Conservatives could bring a government collapse. As if to underscore the point, saying Athens has made clear how far it can go with its latest reforms ernment’s commitments to the people,” the finance ministry said in a win outright on May 7. While none of the main par- Panagiotis Lafazanis, the outspoken head of Syriza’s far-left faction, list that focuses on cracking down on evasion and blocking early statement this weekend. —Reuters ties are making Europe a big issue in a campaign dominated by the economy and the future of the state-run National Health Service (NHS), polls sug- gest an EU referendum could be relatively close. Nuke deal risks projecting US weakness The latest YouGov poll in February found that sup- port for membership was at an all-time high of 45 percent against 35 percent in favour of leaving. By Dan Perry fidence that the West will turn a blind eye. Gaza. Sunni powers like Egypt and Saudi Arabia weapons were developed by India, Pakistan, Alternatively, the deal could mark a major victory fear and distrust Iran and have warned of a North Korea - and Israel. Big Names at Risk n a basic level, the framework deal for President Hassan Rouhani, a relative moder- regional arms race if it becomes a threshold between world powers and Tehran will be ate, and a broader rapprochement could bring nuclear weapons state. Saudi-led warplanes are Risks Another consequence of the election is that judged by whether it prevents an Iranian about a Persian glasnost of sorts that leads to bombing the Shiite Houthi rebels in Yemen, who Supporters of the deal argue that any risks some of the biggest names in British politics could O bomb, but that will take years to figure out. A democratic reform. are supported by Iran, though both Tehran and that may remain are preferable to war. Implied is lose their jobs. Hix predicted that Cameron would more immediate issue is the projection of Western the rebels deny it arms them. the admission that a global consensus on resign as Conservative leader if the party loses the power. Supporters of the framework deal can Implications The implications of a weak United States, tougher sanctions to force Iran to its knees was election, while Labour would force Miliband to do argue that the US and world powers extracted Whichever direction Iran goes will have wide- meanwhile, are not just regional but global, unattainable - Russia, China and even India could the same if he fails to get into Downing Street after significant concessions from Iran, breaking a ranging implications for the rest of the region. affecting events from Russia to China and North not necessarily be corralled. That would leave five years of austerity. Deputy Prime Minister Nick decade-long impasse and proving that diplomacy Iran backs powerful Shiite proxies in Iraq, Syria, Korea - as well as the prospects for global accords armed force, never taken off the table, as the only Clegg, whose centrist Liberal Democrats are the backed by tough sanctions can bring about posi- and Lebanon. It also has supported the on climate change or even significant trade deals. remaining option. Some also note that viewing coalition’s junior partners, has seen his party’s sup- tive change even in the Middle East. Palestinian Hamas, the Sunni Islamists who rule Many of these questions will only be answered Iran as an implacable regional menace is simplis- port slump to single figures in government and But if, as critics contend, the agreement ends by the final agreement, assuming there is one. tic. Iran backs groups like Hamas and Hezbollah, could lose his seat, according to the polls. up projecting US weakness instead, that could For now, both sides are presenting the frame- which the West views as terrorist organizations, Nigel Farage of UKIP has said he will quit if he embolden rogue states and extremists alike, and work accord as a major accomplishment. On one but it is also training and supporting Shiite mili- fails to win the House of Commons seat he is con- make the region’s vast array of challenges - from hand, Iran accepted limits on its enrichment lev- tias battling the Islamic State group in Iraq, where testing. But many Britons could be more interest- the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the Syrian civil els and centrifuge numbers to prevent the accu- Washington and Tehran have found themselves ed in a totally different celebrity come May. Kate, war to the fighting in Libya and Yemen - even mulation of weapons-grade material for a on the same side of the conflict. wife of heir to the throne Prince William, is due to more impervious to Western intervention. decade or more. “Breakout time” to a bomb Washington’s bridled ambitions are under- give birth to the couple’s second baby in the sec- The United States wants to rein in Syria’s would be extended from mere months to a standable given its recent failures in the region. President Bashar Al-Assad as his ruinous civ- year or more. Both Afghanistan and Iraq are still at war more ond half of April, an event whose pageantry and il war grinds into year five. It would like to But on the other, its right to enrich uranium than a decade after the US-led invasions. The razzmatazz threatens to eclipse anything on offer encourage more liberal domestic policies would be enshrined, its facilities would remain Islamic State group, an Al-Qaeda breakaway, con- in the gloomy corridors of the parliament at in Egypt and push Iraq’s leaders to govern in place, the sanctions would be lifted and a trols a third of both Syria and Iraq. A NATO inter- Westminster. —AFP more inclusively. Despite years of setbacks, sort of legitimacy bestowed. Critics in Israel vention helped topple dictator Muammar the US would still like to see a two-state and elsewhere cannot understand why world Gaddafi, but Libya today is a failed state in the solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. powers, who could afford to play for time, did grip of rival militias and jihadi groups. The Israeli- But if leaders in those places read the not squeeze Iran by presenting it with a mind- Palestinian peace process is in shambles. All articles appearing on these fine print of the agreement the US and oth- clearing choice between having a nuclear pro- One senses, beyond the specifics of the Iran er world powers hope to reach with Iran by gram and having an economy. They never deal, an implied admission by the global powers: pages are the personal opinion of June 30 and conclude that they were duped believed Iran’s claims that - with oil in generous there is a limit to countries’ ability to interfere the writers. Kuwait Times takes no or have flinched, these leaders will be less supply - it was investing such effort for nuclear with one another, however interdependent the responsibility for views expressed likely to give in to pressure in the future, ren- energy and research. They expect Iran’s energies world may be. Ironically, it is Israeli Prime Minister dering the Iran agreement a lonely foreign to now focus on fooling the inspectors and Benjamin Netanyahu - the most outspoken therein. Kuwait Times invites read- policy achievement clouded by the region’s developing a bomb. opponent of the Iran deal - who might have rea- ers to voice their opinions. Please chaos. That won’t be easy. Under the framework deal son to appreciate this kind of humility. Recently send submissions via email to: opin- The implications may first be seen in Iran the UN nuclear agency would have substantially re-elected and at odds with the White House, [email protected] or via snail itself. If the agreement leads to acceptance of more authority than it has had in the past. The Netanyahu faces a global clamor to end the West Iran’s theocracy, hard-liners could feel less pres- fact sheet issued by the US says Iran has agreed Bank settlement project and enable the creation mail to PO Box 1301 Safat, Kuwait. sure to curb their support of regional militant to grant inspectors more intrusive access to both of a Palestinian state. If the United States and oth- The editor reserves the right to edit groups and crack down even harder on dissent at declared and undeclared facilities - access that er powers got serious about enforcing their will any submission as necessary. home. They would be flush with cash from the may not be “anytime, anywhere”, but goes far on other countries, Israel could be no less a can- lifting of sanctions and emboldened in their con- beyond anything that was in place when didate than Iran. —AP TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 SPORTS

Rodgers defends players Indian lifters Arango sorry for biting LONDON: Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has defended his players amid MEXICO: Venezuela captain Juan Arango has apologised to a rival player media reports of an acrimonious squad meeting following the 4-1 loss at test positive after biting him on the shoulder at the end of a tempestuous Mexican Arsenal at the weekend, their second Premier League defeat in a row. league match. Speaking to reporters ahead of Wednesday’s FA Cup quarter-final replay at NEW DELHI: The Indian Weightlifting Federation will suspend at least Arango’s Tijuana side were losing 4-3 to Monterrey with just seconds left Blackburn Rovers, Rodgers praised “a great bunch of players who work tireless- three of its regional units after 21 lifters tested positive for banned ly every single day and give me everything”. Asked whether a reported ‘crisis when he went up to midfielder Jesus Zavala and bit him. substances over the last 12 months, the IWF secretary told Reuters “I did something I shouldn’t have done with Zavala,” the 34-year old meeting’ had taken place at the club’s Melwood training ground, he added: “It yesterday. was nothing really, it was just purely analysing performances and where we are midfielder said. “I spoke to him after the game and apologised, it was a at ... it’s just unfortunate something else was made of it”. The majority of the lifters who failed drug tests hail from Delhi, very hot-blooded game, I got heated up, I took that negative attitude, that Rodgers said the heart to heart with his squad was par for the course at Punjab and Haryana and have been provisionally suspended pending isn’t me but unfortunately it happened. We exchanged shirts after the fifth-placed Liverpool who also lost their previous league match at home to the results of their B sample tests, IWF secretary D. Chandrahas Rai game, we spoke and that’s it.” Manchester United. “We have lots of meetings here in terms of analysing per- said by telephone. The lifters were tested by the IWF or the national Zavala fell to the ground and later posted a photo of the bit mark on formances,” he explained. “This was no different really to a whole host of meet- anti-doping agency during five domestic tournaments and also out- social media. The incident was reminiscent of Uryguayan Luis ings that we have had throughout the year.” Rodgers said Liverpool, of-competition. Suarez’s bite on Italian Giorgio Cheillini’s shoulder during last who are now seven points adrift of the Champions League qualifi- “Majority of them are from the north Indian state units. We have year’s World Cup. cation places, would now focus firmly on the clash with decided a two-year suspension for units with two or more lifters who Suarez was given a nine-game suspension from interna- Championship club Blackburn. “It’s a real strong objective for us fail the B test as well,” he said. tional matches and a four-month ban from league action. The this season to do well in the cup competitions and this is an “The guilty lifters will be suspended for four years and there will be opportunity for us to get to another semi-final,” he added. referee in Sunday’s Mexican league game ended the game “This was always going to be a game that was very important a two-year ban on their coaches. Nobody will be spared,” Rai added. seconds after the bite and did not take action against Arango. for us despite the (Arsenal) defeat.” Rodgers is expecting a The IWF did not disclose details about the banned substances used The league’s disciplinary commission could still punish him. tough match following the 0-0 draw in the first game at but revealed the tainted lifters included 2006 Commonwealth Games Tijuana are top of the table with 23 points from 12 games. Anfield last month. —Reuters gold medallist Geeta Rani. — Reuters Monterrey are in 10th on 16 points. — Reuters Capitals clip Red Wings

DETROIT: Mike Green had a goal and an Montreal on a 5-on-3 power play, sweeping assist as the Washington Capitals beat in a wrist shot between Ellis’ legs at 6:36. Detroit 2-1 on Sunday, putting the Red The teams traded goals just 46 seconds Wings in an anxious spot as they try to apart in the second period. Ekblad tied it extend their streak of postseason appear- on a power play at 6:20 for his 12th goal by ances. beating Price low on the glove side. Braden Holtby stopped 35 shots and Gallagher regained Montreal’s lead for Evgeny Kuznetsov also scored for good by finishing a 2-on-1 off a pass from Washington, which moved into second Subban. Parenteau and Smith-Pelley place in the Metropolitan Division. The capped the scoring later in the second. Capitals clinched a playoff berth when Ottawa lost to Toronto in a shootout. BLUES 2, BLACKHAWKS 1 Darren Helm scored for Detroit, and Petr Olli Jokinen and David Backes scored in Mrazek finished with 26 saves. Kuznetsov the second period as St. Louis won its third put the Capitals ahead 3:38 into the game, straight to move into first place in the firing a shot that bounced off Drew Miller’s Central Division. stick and past Mrazek. The Blues improved to 105 points, one Green made it 2-0 at 4:42 of the second more than idle Nashville, with three games as he ripped a shot that hit the top of remaining for both teams. Chicago’s Kris Mrazek’s glove before settling in the top Versteeg scored to end a 16-game drought right corner of the net for his 10th of the without a goal, but the Blackhawks’ four- season. Helm got the Red Wings on the game winning streak ended and they board with his 14th of the season with 7:01 remained two points behind Nashville in left in the second. third place in the rugged Central. Jake Allen made 38 saves for St. Louis FLYERS 4, PENGUINS 1 and Corey Crawford stopped 31 shots for Steve Mason made 46 saves, and Chicago in a physical game between divi- Philadelphia scored three power-play goals sion rivals that had ample chippy to beat Pittsburgh. Jakub Voracek, Brayden moments. Schenn and Michael Del Zotto all scored with the man-advantage, and Ryan White MAPLE LEAFS 3, SENATORS 2 also had a goal for the Flyers. Peter Holland scored the winning goal Philadelphia, which is eliminated from in the seventh round of the shootout to lift playoff contention, completed a season Toronto. Joffrey Lupul and James van sweep of its Pennsylvania state rival. Riemsdyk scored in regulation for the Brandon Sutter scored on the power play Maple Leafs, and Jonathan Bernier had 43 late in the first period for Pittsburgh to tie saves through overtime. the score at 1-all. The Penguins have Erik Karlsson and rookie Mark Stone dropped 10 of their last 13 games and sud- scored for Ottawa, and Andrew Hammond denly face the prospect of playing for a finished with 36 saves - including 21 in the postseason spot. first period. Mika Zibanejad scored in the first round CANADIENS 4, PANTHERS 1 of the shootout for Ottawa, and Lupul tied Carey Price stopped 24 shots to pick up it in the second. Neither team broke his league-leading 42nd win and Tomas through again until Holland’s game-winner. Plekanec scored his 200th career goal as Despite the loss, the Senators picked up Montreal beat Florida. a valuable point, pulling two behind SAN ANTONIO: Golden State Warriors guard Andre Iguodala (center) looks to pass around San Antonio Spurs forward Aron Baynes (right) of Brendan Gallagher, P.A. Parenteau and Detroit, Boston and Pittsburgh - who are Australia, as Spurs guard Manu Ginobili, of Argentina, looks on during the second half of an NBA basketball game. — AP Devante Smith-Pelly also scored for tied for the last three playoff spots in the Montreal. Aaron Ekblad scored for Florida, Eastern Conference with three games left and Dan Ellis finished with 23 saves. for each team. Ottawa hosts Pittsburgh Spurs roll past Warriors Plekanec opened the scoring with today. — AP

SAN ANTONIO: Kawhi Leonard matched his as the Cavs moved closer to a Central of the Western Conference playoffs. career-high with 26 points and set a career- Division title and securing the No. 2 seed in high with seven steals and the San Antonio the Eastern Conference playoffs. JAZZ 101, KINGS 95 Spurs rolled past Golden State 107-92 on Mike Dunleavy scored 24 and Aaron Rodney Hood scored 13 of his season- Sunday, ending the Warriors’ 12-game win- Brooks 17 for the Bulls, who could have star high 25 points in the fourth quarter and the ning streak while extending their own to sev- guard Derrick Rose back in the next few days. Utah Jazz pulled away. The Jazz were cling- en straight. James finished with 20 points, 12 assists ing to an 83-82 lead with 6:10 remaining San Antonio also extended its home win- and 10 rebounds, his first triple-double in a when Hood scored the first nine points of a ning streak over Golden State to 32 straight. Cleveland uniform since May 13, 2010, two 14-2 run. Tim Duncan had 19 points and Danny Green months before he left as a free agent for He had a pair of three-point plays and a 3- added 18 points for San Antonio, which led Miami. pointer during the streak, then later made a by as many as 28 points. 17-foot jumper to give Utah a 99-88 lead. Stephen Curry had 24 points, but was CLIPPERS 106, LAKERS 78 Rudy Gobert added 10 points and nine harassed into 9-for-17 shooting by Leonard. Blake Griffin scored 18 points, DeAndre rebounds, Derrick Favors scored 11 and Klay Thompson was held to six points on 3- Jordan added 16 points and 11 rebounds, Jeremy Evans had 10 points off the bench for for-11 shooting for Golden State. and the Los Angeles Clippers sent the Lakers the Jazz. Utah bounced back from a disap- to their team-record 56th defeat of the sea- pointing two-point loss in Phoenix 24 hours PACERS 112, HEAT 89 son. earlier. Paul George’s season debut provided a Matt Barnes scored 14 points and Chris needed boost Sunday as the Pacers put them- Paul had 15 assists for the Clippers, who KNICKS 101, 76ERS 91 selves back in the playoff contention. George handed that historic loss to their Staples Andrea Bargnani scored 25 points and finished with 13 points in 15 minutes-his first Center roommates while beating the Lakers Shane Larking added 15 and 11 rebounds, action since breaking his right leg Aug. 1. Luis for a record sixth straight time overall. and the New York Knicks ended a nine-game Scola scored a season-high 23 points to lead With six games still to play, the Lakers losing streak. Indiana to its second straight win. The Pacers have surpassed last season’s team as the Lance Thomas chipped in 14 points for moved into a tie with Miami for the No. 9 spot worst in the 16-time champion franchise’s the Knicks, whose last victory was on March in the Eastern Conference. Both teams trail illustrious history. 17 over the defending champion San Boston by one game for the conference’s The playoff-bound Clippers have won 10 Antonio Spurs at Madison Square Garden. Ish eighth and final playoff spot. Miami was led of 11 down the stretch, staying in the tight Smith and reserve forward Hollis Thompson by Dwyane Wade with 27 points but lost its five-team race behind Golden State for each had 17 points for the visiting 76ers, fourth in a row. homecourt advantage in the first two rounds who’ve lost six straight. — AP Mike Green in action in this file photo. ROCKETS 115, THUNDER 112 James Harden scored 41 points, and the Houston Rockets overcame Russell NBA results/standings NHL results/standings Westbrook’s triple-double to beat the Oklahoma City Thunder. Houston 115, Oklahoma City 112; Cleveland 99, Chicago 94; Indiana 112, Miami 89; San Antonio Philadelphia 4, Pittsburgh 1; Washington 2, Detroit 1; Montreal 4, Florida 1; Toronto 3, Harden and Westbrook, the league’s top 107, Golden State 92; NY Knicks 101, Philadelphia 91; Utah 101, Sacramento 95; LA Clippers 106, Ottawa 2 (SO); St. Louis 2, Chicago 1. two scorers, both entered the game averag- LA Lakers 78. ing 27.5 points. Harden made 12 of 22 shots Eastern Conference Western Conference Western Conference Tampa Bay 48 24 8 255 206 104 and 6 of 9 3-pointers before fouling out with Atlantic Division Northwest Division Pacific Division Boston 41 25 13 209 201 95 33 seconds left. The Rockets hung on to win W L OTLGF GA PTS Detroit 41 25 13 227 215 95 for the seventh time in eight games. W L PCT GB Portland 50 26 .658 - Anaheim 50 23 7 234 221 107 Ottawa 40 26 13 228 211 93 Westbrook finished with 40 points, 13 Toronto 45 32 .584 - Oklahoma City 42 35 .545 8.5 Vancouver 45 29 5 229 216 95 Florida 36 29 15 199 219 87 Brooklyn 35 41 .461 9.5 Utah 35 42 .455 15.5 Calgary 43 29 7 234 208 93 assists and 11 rebounds. It was his 11th triple- Toronto 30 43 7 208 253 67 Boston 35 42 .455 10 Denver 28 49 .364 22.5 Los Angeles 39 25 14 212 195 92 double of the season and the 18th of his Buffalo 22 49 8 155 265 52 career. Philadelphia 18 60 .231 27.5 Minnesota 16 60 .211 34 San Jose 39 31 9 223 222 87 NY Knicks 15 62 .195 30 Edmonton 23 43 13 188 272 59 Metropolitan Division Enes Kanter added 21 points and 17 Pacific Division NY Rangers 50 21 7 240 182 107 rebounds for the Thunder, who lost their third Central Division Golden State 63 14 .818 - Arizona 24 47 8 167 262 56 Cleveland 50 27 .649 - Washington 44 25 11 237 199 99 straight. Their lead over New Orleans for the LA Clippers 52 26 .667 11.5 Central Division Chicago 46 31 .597 4 St. Louis 49 23 7 242 197 105 NY Islanders 46 27 6 241 219 98 No. 8 spot in the Western Conference was cut Phoenix 39 38 .506 24 Milwaukee 38 39 .494 12 Nashville 47 22 10 227 197 104 Pittsburgh 42 26 11 215 203 95 to a half game. Sacramento 26 50 .342 36.5 Chicago 48 25 6 225 182 102 Indiana 34 43 .442 16 Columbus 39 35 4 219 240 82 Detroit 30 47 .390 20 LA Lakers 20 56 .263 42.5 Minnesota 44 26 8 223 192 96 Philadelphia 32 29 18 208 224 82 CAVALIERS 99, BULLS 94 Southwest Division Winnipeg 40 26 12 222 208 92 Southeast Division New Jersey 32 34 13 174 205 77 LeBron James recorded his first triple-dou- Houston 53 24 .688 - Dallas 38 31 10 248 258 86 ble since returning to Cleveland, and the Atlanta 57 19 .750 - Carolina 29 38 11 180 216 69 Memphis 52 25 .675 1 Colorado 36 31 12 212 223 84 Cavaliers made 16 3-pointers while winning Washington 44 33 .571 13.5 Note: Overtime losses (OTL) are worth San Antonio 51 26 .662 2 Eastern Conference their 18th straight home game. Miami 34 43 .442 23.5 one point in the standings and are not Atlantic Division J.R. Smith made eight 3s, Kyrie Irving casu- Charlotte 33 43 .434 24 Dallas 46 31 .597 7 included in the loss column (L). Montreal 48 22 10 213 183 106 ally dropped one from 52 feet and scored 27 Orlando 24 53 .312 33.5 New Orleans 41 35 .539 11.5 TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 SPORTS Frozen in time, Masters conjures a golf heaven AUGUSTA: Golfers glide along as if walking on air lucky enough to have secured tickets, or held them Cell phones, beepers and other electronic of golf and the patrons feel privileged to be there. and the crowd is polite and smiling at Augusta through the decades or had them willed down to devices are prohibited and grounds for dismissal. Commercialism is held at bay by an exclusive mem- National Golf Club, where time stands still like a them, feel part of a civilized family outing staged on Cameras are not allowed on tournament days, and bership intent on staging the world’s greatest tour- Norman Rockwell study of bygone days when the a grand scale. The feeling is reinforced by throw- patrons are asked not to run, lie down on the grass nament. Tradition and echoes of the past mark the Masters rolls around. back prices at concession stands, where a pimento or go barefoot. The graceful grounds of Augusta run-up days from the annual Champions Dinner to The deep green grass is perfectly groomed and cheese sandwich goes for $1.50, the ham and National are revealed to players after an elegant the Par-3 Contest, a family fest for players on the azaleas are in bloom when the first major champi- cheese, $2.50, a beer for $4 and chips or candy for drive down Magnolia Lane from the hubbub of eve of the championship where young children and onship of the year returns to the Georgia pines each $1. Former CBS sports president Neal Pilson, who busy Washington Road. grandchildren in caddie outfits toddle about on the April for a glorious reunion where more golf history negotiated 19 of the one-year deals that has kept “You step off Washington Road and you step greens. As the only permanent site of a major, there will be made. the Masters on the U.S. TV network from 1956 to the away from modern America with its fast food, its is a familiarity with the holes, such as Amen Corner, “The Masters is a monument to everything great present day, calls it “the most unique event in strip malls and its pizza joints and parking lots and and the high drama played out on them over the in golf,” Jack Nicklaus, winner of a record six Masters, American sports.” you go through the gate and go back 100 years,” decades. Even its timing kindles nostalgia. “The said of the tournament co-founded by legendary Green is the color of the Masters, from the paper Pilson, now a sports business consultant, told Masters signifies to a good part of the country that Georgia golfer Bobby Jones. cups for soft drinks and beer, to the plastic wrap- Reuters. “All of a sudden you’re talking in hushed spring has arrived,” noted Pilson. “First week in April, Players are treated like royalty at the tournament ping of the sandwiches, to the jackets worn by tones. There’s not a blade of grass that isn’t mani- it’s still pretty chilly up north and in the Midwest founded in 1934 and where the focus is strictly on members of the exclusive club and draped over the cured. There’s not a piece of paper anywhere. and the flowers are out at Augusta and all’s right golf and tradition, while the memory of greats such shoulders of the latest champion. There’s not a weed growing anywhere. with the world. “It’s kind of a fairyland. It’s sports as as Sarazen, Hogan, Snead, Palmer, Nicklaus and Protecting the special atmosphere with a firm “The patrons are orderly, respectful. No one runs. it should be.” Said South African Gary Player, winner Player and their exploits hang in the air. hand through an unobtrusive army of security, a No one yells.” First-time players pinch themselves to of three green jackets: “If there’s a golf course in Fans, or patrons as they are known at Augusta, long of list of do’s and don’ts is enforced. know they have really arrived at the U.S. cathedral heaven, I hope it’s like Augusta National.” — Reuters Lincicome beats Lewis in ANA Inspiration playoff

CALIFORNIA: Brittany Lincicome beat fellow American Stacy Lewis at the third sudden death hole to win the ANA Inspiration in California on Sunday. Lincicome, who eagled the par-five 18th to force the playoff, won with a par at the same hole to claim her second victory at the LPGA’s opening major at Mission Hills in Rancho Mirage. She also eagled the final hole for her previous victory six years ago, but this time she needed to work overtime after carding a closing 69 to finish tied with Lewis (70) at nine-under 279, one stroke ahead of compatriot Morgan Pressel. Overnight leader Kim Sei-young of South Korea struggled in strong winds on the back nine and faded to tie for fourth, two shots behind. She went eight consecutive holes without a par on the back nine. Long-hitting Lincicome had little pressure playing the 18th hole in regulation because she did not give herself any hope of victory and rifled a five-iron to six feet to set up the eagle chance. She said she felt considerably more heat in the playoff. “The first time it felt fairly easy because I thought I was so far out of the tournament that I never had a chance,” she told Golf Channel after tapping in her winning putt from a foot. “I’m stand- ing here physically shaking like a leaf. That’s how nerves get to you.” Lincicome said her approach at the 18th to set up eagle was almost a carbon copy RANCHO MIRAGE: Brittany Lincicome holds up the trophy after winning the LPGA Tour ANA of her shot that set up victory six years ago. “It took Inspiration golf tournament in the third playoff round at Mission Hills Country Club. — AP the same slope like it did in 2009, which is pretty crazy. To roll down to almost the same spot it was ond shot stopped in a sand-filled divot and con- to win at the 18th, missing a birdie putt from about in 2009 is really crazy,” she added. “Today just must tributed to a bad approach shot to the green. 12 feet in her final round and then failing twice have been my day.” “It was just bad luck really, getting it right in the more in the playoff from similar distances. She Lincicome also shot a final round of 69 to finish middle of a divot there,” she said. “It was just a hard dropped her putter in disbelief when her attempt nine under par in 2009. Lewis was dejected after lie. I played great golf this week so it’s really hard to at the second extra hole shaved the cup moments throwing away the playoff with a bogey, though be too upset.” after Lincicome had also missed by a whisker on a there was an element of poor fortune after her sec- Dual major champion Lewis had three chances similar line. — Reuters

TEXAS: JB Holmes posses with the trophy after winning the Houston Open golf tour- nament in a playoff. — AP Holmes wins Houston Open

HOUSTON: Long-hitting JB Holmes com- putt at the 72nd hole to join the playoff. pleted a perfect Masters tune-up when “Birdieing 18 to even get into the he won the Houston Open in a three-way playoff was pretty incredible,” he said. playoff on Sunday. “I’m pretty bummed right now, but a lot Holmes came from six strokes behind of good stuff going on.” in the final round with a sizzling eight- Spieth missed a chance to enter the under-par 64 that included nine birdies Masters as the world number two, but in the first 12 holes at the Golf Club of remained the hottest player in the game, Houston in Humble. after finishing first, second and second in Three hours after posting a 16-under his past three starts. 272 total, he made a tap-in par at the The 21-year-old was eliminated from second extra hole, the par-four 18th, to the playoff after flinching on a greenside outlast fellow American Johnson Wagner, bunker shot, a mistake he initially who missed a five-foot par putt. blamed on a noise from the gallery, Overnight leader Jordan Spieth was before backtracking slightly. eliminated at the first extra hole. Holmes “I heard something, or maybe it was collected $1.188 million for his fourth just me,” he said. “It’s not really an excuse PGA Tour victory. The 33-year-old had but I had a really good lie and I just got already qualified for the Masters, the first down into the sand a lot quicker than I major of the year starting on Thursday. normally do there and caught it fat.” He has played the tournament once. Spieth said the past month of being “It was just a great day for me and it constantly in contention was an ideal ended good too,” Holmes told reporters. preparation for the Masters, where he “I didn’t tee off expecting to win today. tied for second last year. It’s a nice surprise. I started out with five “I feel as prepared as I think I could be. birdies. After that I thought I had a I felt more and more comfortable with chance.” Wagner, who played on a spon- more and more pressure, and that gives sor exemption, needed to win to punch me a lot of confidence going into his ticket to Augusta, and he gave him- Augusta, where you probably have the self a chance when he sank a 25-foot most pressure anywhere.” — Reuters Marathon held for youth

KUWAIT: The youth forward project organized the ty. This initiative was appreciated by all participants. Mariam Al-Failakawi third marathon during 2015, within its plan to urge In the 8 km men, the winners were: Alison Taylor. the youth to practice the sport of jogging. Pablo Gonzales Forward project organized two marathons earli- The third marathon was held in Mishref walking Greg Zympenski er in the year and expected to have five marathon lane, and coincided with Mother’s Day, and partici- Abdellah Rabee pating women received flowers on the occasion and In the women’s category: until the season ends. The next marathon will be in in appreciation of their role as mothers in the socie- Jenny Hotib the southern desert of Kuwait during April. Briton clinches Ocean Race leg

BRAZIL: Briton Ian Walker took a big step a packed ItajaÌ harbor after the 19-day the race for the third time and has stated towards a lifetime ambition to claim offshore crossing through the South Pacific, Southern that victory in the 41-year-old event would sailing’s most prestigious prize, the Volvo Ocean and South Atlantic. fulfil a childhood dream. The fifth leg is gen- Ocean Race, when his Abu Dhabi Ocean Instead he simply savoured a hard-earned erally regarded as the toughest of the nine- Racing crew claimed the fifth leg on Sunday. win with only 32 minutes to spare from the month race. Three boats-Dongfeng, MAPFRE There are still four legs left, including a trans- chasing pack. “Awesome. It’s been such a and the all-women’s crew of Team SCA Atlantic crossing from Newport, Rhode monster of a leg, we are so, so stoked,” said (Sweden) — all crashed on their sides in so- Island, to Lisbon, but the 6,776-nautical mile the 45-year-old. “We have sailed very, very called ‘Chinese gybes’ before righting. (nm) stage win from Auckland to Itajai, well, but it was a very tight finish.” Several of the boats also suffered damage Brazil, leaves Walker’s men strong favourites The leg was incredibly closely contested to their sails along the way and on Monday for the overall prize. with MAPFRE (Spain), Team Alvimedica Dongfeng’s hopes were scuppered when the They now stand seven points clear of (Turkey/US) and Team Brunel (Netherlands), top of their mast fractured leading to their their nearest rivals after Dongfeng Race contesting the lead with Abu Dhabi all along withdrawal. The boats will set off for the next Team (China) failed to complete the leg with the Brazilian coast and eventually finishing stage to Newport on April 19. In all, the fleet a broken mast. in that order. will cover 38,739nm before the culmination An elated but exhausted Walker was not Walker, a twice Olympic silver medallist in of the nine-month race in Gothenburg, PHILADELPHIA: Members of the Philadelphia Phillies stretch ahead of an opening taking anything for granted after sailing into the 1996 and 2000 Games, is competing in Sweden, on June 27. — Reuters day baseball game against Boston Red Sox yesterday. — AP TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 SPORTS Season of near miss in college basketball

INDIANAPOLIS: Maybe it was fitting that nobody - rich being in this profession.’ Today, a lot of people get rence anymore. “The team I played for, they’re still The not-so-coincidental toll: Attendance at Division not even Kentucky - escaped this year unscathed. Late rich as a result of being in this profession. Everything doing documentaries about it,” said 1990s Duke star I games has fallen for seven straight seasons; as of late yesterday marked the final chapter of a very imperfect about that isn’t totally healthy.” Grant Hill, a key character in the much-discussed ESPN this season, ESPN saw about a 6 percent ratings season for college basketball. It was filled with the usu- What to change? Where to start? “I guess if there account of his hateable teammate, Christian Laettner. decrease on its telecasts. al thrills of March and April but just as many rough was one thing I could change, it would be the ‘one- “But if it was this day and age, that team never “I do have some concerns about the game itself, patches in the months before. and-done’ rule,” said Jim Harrick, the former UCLA and would’ve existed. I would’ve been pressured to leave and some things, I think, need to be fixed and worked A season closing with Duke playing Wisconsin for a Georgia coach who, like Fisher, has had his run-ins after my first year.” Hill is now calling the games on TV, on,” said Dan Gavitt, the NCAA’s vice president for title the smart money said would land in the Bluegrass with the NCAA. As Kentucky’s $7.5 million-a-year and though the tournament - worth $10.8 billion in men’s basketball. Despite all that, March Madness has State included a steady parade of complaints and con- coach John Calipari reminds reporters frequently, the rights revenue to the NCAA over 14 years - has been a way of restoring faith in the game. cerns, both about the quality of the product on the rule stating a player can leave for the NBA after a sin- thrilling, the season leading up to it was something It’s the time for filling brackets, for falling in love court and the viability of the game off it. gle year of college isn’t his rule. Nor is it actually an less. Curtailed by changes in the way refs called the with underdogs and, at the end, for watching one This was also the season basketball lost two of its NCAA piece of legislation. It was written by the NBA games, coaches’ unending focus on defense and a 35- team bask in confetti while “One Shining Moment” greats within the span of a week - coaches Jerry and its players union and they are reviewing it for pos- second shot clock that just seems too long, teams blares over the sound system. Tarkanian and Dean Smith. When they got into the sible changes. When the Wildcats, with four NBA-quali- averaged 67.6 points per game. That was a drop of Thanks in part to Kentucky’s now-stifled march for profession, would either have envisioned the 2015 ver- ty freshmen on the roster, lost to a senior-laden team more than three points from last season, and back to an undefeated season, Saturday’s semifinal against sion of the beautiful-yet-troubled mega-business they from Wisconsin in the semifinals Saturday, it struck a just a tad over the 2012-13 numbers, which were the Wisconsin drew the most viewers for a national semifi- helped create? blow for traditionalists who say you can still have it all - lowest since the pre-shot-clock era of the early 1950s. nal in 19 years. “When we criticize the game, we’re “It’s a whole new world,” said Steve Fisher, the 70- a full college career, a chance to play for a title, and a Other problems include too many media timeouts using some selective memory here,” Gonzaga coach year-old San Diego State coach who made his name wealthy future in the NBA. Player of the Year Frank that take too long, and the turtle’s pace of the last 2 Mark Few said. “We’ve got a unique product that mil- leading Michigan’s Fab Five to the Final Four in the Kaminsky and two of his teammates, Sam Dekker and minutes of games, which are subject to even more lions of people love. Everything needs a little fixing ‘90s. “With Dean and Tark, and I’ll throw my group in Nigel Hayes, forged opportunities to do all that with timeouts, along with a steady flow of official video and doctoring here and there. But, by and large, every- there, no one ever got into it thinking, ‘I’m going to get the Badgers. Some think that’s an all-too-rare occur- reviews that suck the life out of the arena. thing is really good.” — AP Tigers roar to down Eels

SYDNEY: Wests Tigers surged home with three tries in the final 10 minutes to down the Parramatta Eels 22-6 in the Australia’s National Rugby League yesterday. The Eels led 6-4 until the final 10 minutes when James Tedesco, Pat Richards and Luke Brooks crossed for tries to seal the two competi- tion points for the joint venture club. Richards’ bid was ruled to be an eight-point try when referee Jared Maxwell deemed Will Hopoate guilty of a high tackle during the build- up. The experienced winger, in his 100th NRL game, ignited his side’s late flourish with some great footwork to keep his feet in touch and kick over the head of Hopoate for Tedesco to score. Melbourne Storm winger Marika Koroibete put on an awesome display of pace and power to help set up a 30-14 win over the New Zealand Warriors in Melbourne on Monday. FRANCE: Racing Metro’s Henri Chavancy (left) is tackled by Saracens’ Chris Ashton Storm skipper Cameron Smith said mid-week during their European Champions Cup quarterfinal at Yves Du Manoir Stadium. —AP his team’s form was good enough to be sitting alongside the competition front-runners. Toulon and Saracens Melbourne ran in five tries, with the Fijian winger scoring one in each half and setting up another. Test star Johnathan Thurston delivered advance to Euro semis another masterclass to lead North Queensland to a 30-10 win over Penrith. PARIS: Defending two-time champions Toulon In Paris, however, there was a dramatic end Picking up where he left off last week, and last season’s beaten finalists Saracens to a game that promised much but served up lit- Thurston had a hand or boot in all five of his advanced to the semi-finals of the European tle. Racing-Metro scrum-half Maxime side’s tries as the Cowboys’ early-season revival Champions Cup after beating Wasps and Machenaud seemed to have wrapped up the continued. Racing-Metro in Sunday’s quarters. The April 18- game with two late penalties, but a ruck The Cowboys are now on the cusp of the top 19 semi-finals will see Toulon play three-time infringement handed Saracens a penalty oppor- eight alongside the Panthers and have the influ- champions Leinster, who beat Bath 18-15 on tunity and Argentina centre Marcelo Bosch ential Thurston to thank. The NRL sent out a Saturday, at Marseille’s Stade Velodrome, while stepped up to kick the last-gasp 43-metre penal- Saracens will travel to Saint-Etienne’s Stade ty to hand the London side a 12-11 victory. strong message to players who berate match Geoffroy-Guichard to play Clermont, who put “We’ll have to be better against Clermont,” officials by slapping three Canterbury players Northampton to the sword 37-5. warned Saracens coach Mark McCall, whose side with contrary conduct charges on Monday after Toulon never looked overly troubled in their handed Clermont a 46-6 hammering in last stormy scenes erupted during a Good Friday home 32-18 victory over Wasps, having built up year’s semi-final. “But sometimes matches are encounter between the Canterbury Bulldogs a 22-6 half-time lead thanks to a barrelling like that and you mustn’t over-analyse it.” and South Sydney. Mathieu Bastareaud try converted by Frederic Charlie Hodgson opened the scoring for The English side’s skipper James Graham, fel- Michalak, who ended up with a personal haul of Saracens with a sixth-minute penalty, with very low prop David Klemmer and hooker Michael 22 points. “After a long injury it’s good to play little difference between two sides well drilled in Lichaa were all sanctioned by the NRL match again,” said Michalak, sidelined since September defence in the opening exchanges. review committee for comments made to refer- with a shoulder injury. “We’re in the final straight Home worries were eased when Saracens’ ee Gerard Sutton. and we’re very excited.” Scotland international lock Jim Hamilton was Graham, who was also charged with danger- At a sun-kissed Stade Mayol in Toulon, the yellow-carded for cynically failing to release the ous contact for his attempted charge down that home side let Wasps back into the game to give ball close to the line. left South scrum-half Adam Reynolds with knee the crowd some jitters. Alex Lozowski had hit Racing’s Irish fly-half Jonathan Sexton, who ligament damage, is facing up to five weeks sus- two first-half penalties but gave way for Andy had never lost a European knockout match hav- pension. The Englishman is looking at a 1-2 Goode early in the second period and the expe- ing guided Leinster to the title three times, week ban for the incident which is set to sideline rienced ex-Leicester, Worcester and Brive play- kicked for the corner. Reynolds for up to four months and stands to maker made his presence felt almost immedi- From the resulting line-out the powerful get a further 2-3 weeks for contrary conduct. ately with a midfield mismove. Racing pack rolled into midfield, Machenaud Aided by a slip by Toulon winger Josua peeling off to crash over for a try from short Tempers flared after Bryson Goodwin kicked Tuisova, Eliot Daly played in winger Will Helu in range. Sexton’s conversion came back off the a late penalty to give NRL champions and com- the corner for a try Goode converted. post and Hodgson then missed two kickable petition leaders South Sydney a 18-17 win, after Michalak kicked a sixth penalty but after penalties as the kickers struggled with a down- they trailed the Bulldogs throughout the another sustained passage of play from Wasps, field wind at the Yves-du-Manoir stadium. rematch of last year’s grand final. — AFP James Tedesco in action in this file photo. with scrum-half Joe Simpson to the fore, Helu Hodgson nailed a second penalty on the crossed for his second, though Goode missed stroke of half-time after Antonie Claassen’s indis- the conversion. Ex-All Black lock Ali Williams, cretion at a ruck to leave it 6-5 to the visitors at outstanding throughout, was played into the the interval. Alex Goode took over the kicking Matthews grabs Tour of corner for a 76th-minute try, converted by duties from Hodgson and made no mistake with Michalak, to calm Toulon nerves. his first effort. Machenaud then kicked two “Relieved yes,” said Toulon manager Bernard penalties to put Racing into a one-point lead, Basque Country first stage Laporte of the win as he paid tribute to France but there was one ruck too many for Racing, international half-back Michalak’s contribution. Bosch holding his nerve to put Saracens into the “It wasn’t our best match, but Frederic was last four. The Argentinian revealed that his BILBAO: Michael Matthews of Orica- Roubaix in 2010, although he finished third Classics. This is where I can make results. As excellent in his efficiency. There’s a lot of pride. Saracens kicking coach had told him to “think I GreenEdge won a sprint finish yesterday to the previous year and was twice third at you get older, you get slower and maybe “It’s the third time we’re in the semi-final am on the beach” when kicking. “I think it claim the first stage of the Tour of the Basque Milan-San Remo-ironically his greatest suc- sprinting will be more difficult, but at the (under Laporte). But we want to go further and worked. I knew I had the wind in my face and I Country in Bilbao. The 24-year-old Australian, cesses coming in the same two races that Classics maybe I’ll get better because you can win a third time. In the semi-final (against would not force the kick and just kept as relaxed already a stage winner last year, crossed favour Kristoff. handle long distances better.” The key to suc- Leinster) there won’t be a favourite.” as possible,” he added. — AFP ahead of Poland’s Michal Kwiatkowski of the Hushovd did win the Gent-Wevelgem cob- cess in a race like Flanders, which is 264km Etixx-Quick Step team and Russian Ilnur bled classic in 2006 and the semi-classic long and tackles 19 short but brutal and often Abendanon sends England Zakarin of Katusha. Omloop Het Nieuwsblad in 2009. But Kristoff, cobbled climbs, is to go on the attack, accord- Meanwhile, Alexander Kristoff humbly 27, wants to concentrate more on the Classics, ing to Kristoff. timely World Cup reminder played down comparisons with compatriot believing that will help him extend his ability “In Flanders you must have an attacking Thor Hushovd after making history by becom- to win big races. “I wanted to be good in the mind because usually it is a small group com- PARIS: Nick Abendanon’s outstanding form England like - Browny never seems to get ing the first Norwegian to win the Tour of Classics and not only a sprinter,” he said. “To ing into the finish,” he said. “I saw this in the for Clermont in Top 14 and European injured either!” Abendanon told Sky Sports. Flanders. It was Kristoff’s second victory in a win Flanders is proof that I’m good in the last years and I was already set for this.” —AFP Champions Cup action has sent out a timely “At times it is waiting for an injury or an ‘Monument’ race following success at Milan reminder to England coach Stuart Lancaster opportunity. It helps when you play in a win- San-Remo last year and he is rapidly making a ahead of this year’s World Cup. The 28-year- ning team and unfortunately when I was at name for himself as both a sprinter and a old South African-born full-back won two Bath we were in the middle of the pack for a Classics specialist. caps for England, against the country of his few seasons. birth and France, way back in 2007. His per- “I’m not really worrying about England. If I It was his third straight top five finish in formances for Bath, with whom he played keep playing well there may be dispensation Flanders while he won Milan-San Remo last more than 200 matches over eight seasons but that’s not at the front of my mind at all. “In year, was second this year and eighth in 2013. between 2005-14, and subsequent fleet-foot- the back of my head I’ve always wanted to He also won two stages at last year’s Tour ed form for Clermont have led many pundits play more for England. To maybe get that de France and took bronze in the Olympic to ask why he hasn’t featured more. opportunity for a World Cup in England would road race in 2012. But he says he has a long After helping Clermont to a 37-5 rout of be a dream come true.” Certainly Abendanon’s way to go to overtake Hushovd, who in 2010 Northampton in the European Champions stand-out performance against the runaway was the first ever Scandinavian to win the Cup quarter-final on Saturday - his try-scoring English Premiership leaders lit up social World Championships road race. performance winning him the man-of-the- media, with many questioning whether he match accolade, Abendanon admitted to feel- might be left to one side like Toulon flanker “Now I have won two ‘Monuments’ so I’m ing aggrieved at his lack of international hon- and reigning European player of the year getting closer, but he delivered for many ors. “There’s been no communication so I’ve Steffon Armitage. years,” said Kristoff, who rides for Russian out- just got to keep working here and if Clermont “@nick_abendanon staking a claim that he fit Katusha. keep playing well then maybe I’ll be called up could, like @Magicsteffo7, be a potential wild “If I keep putting results together, maybe I to the World Cup training squad but we’ll see,” card for higher honours later this season?!?” will get closer.” Hushovd retired at the end of Abendanon said. “Deep down I’m still upset Toulon’s Springbok winger Bryan Habana last year at 36 years of age having set a num- that over the last 10 years I’ve only had two tweeted. Ex-England full-back Iain Balshaw, ber of records for a Scandinavian cyclist: He caps and I’ve always wanted to play more for who also sparkled when he joined Biarritz, was the first winner of the World England.” responded to Habana: “No doubt. That “play- Championships in 2010 and won a record But Abendanon faces an uphill struggle, ing abroad” policy is a load of b******* !!” not only because of the form of incumbent Abendanon, however, insisted he had no number of Grand Tour stages — 14, including Mike Brown and favored deputy Alex Goode, regrets over his move to France, saying he was 10 at the Tour de France. but also because Lancaster selects players relishing the freedom he was being given in He was also the first Norwegian to wear the solely plying their trade in the English the Clermont side. Tour’s fabled yellow jersey in 2006, wearing it Premiership. “This is one of the reasons why I have again in 2010. Hushovd, though, was a spe- “It’s about timing, Mike Brown has been in come to one of the best clubs in Europe, to cialist sprinter, as well as a handy time-triallist, great form for the last six or seven years and play in the big games here - it’s an incredible and never won a Monument race. The closest Alex Goode has also got that utility that experience,” he said. —AFP he came was a second place finish at Paris- Michael Matthews celebrates his victory in this file photo. TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 SPORTS Hazard and Matic make Chelsea tick — Melchiot

LONDON: Eden Hazard and Nemanja Matic bit of balance because they also need some- are the two players who make things tick for one on the right who can create as much dif- Premier League leaders Chelsea, according to ficulty and problems for the opposition as former Stamford Bridge defender Mario Hazard does on the left.” Melchiot. Neither Chelsea nor Stoke were at their The ex-Dutch international right back best on Saturday and Melchiot identified the returned to his old hunting ground on international break as one of the reasons. Saturday to watch the Londoners go seven “The game started off well for 20, 25 min- points clear at the top of the table with a 2-1 utes and then it slowed down a little bit,” said victory over Stoke City. the Dutchman who made 165 appearances Hazard opened the scoring for Jose for the London club between 1999 and 2004. Mourinho’s men with a first-half penalty and “Sometimes when you see players come the Belgium playmaker also laid on the win- back from internationals and they don’t get a ner for Loic Remy in the second period. goal in the first 20 to 25 minutes they can “I am a big fan of Hazard,” Melchiot told start to struggle. Reuters in an interview. “Whenever I watch “I had the same problem when I was play- Chelsea play I always feel when he gets on ing. It’s something that will never go away the ball they really start clicking. from the game.” Melchiot has been out of “If you look at the way Mourinho has football since retiring four years ago and has always played with his teams, he always has no ambitions to become a manager or coach. one star,” added the dread-locked Dutchman “I work for Fox Sports, I enjoy my life, I trav- in reference to the former Real Madrid, Inter el, I talk about the game, I love the game and I Milan and Porto manager. will always be part of the game but not as a “If you go back through his history he cre- coach,” said the former Ajax Amsterdam, ates a star and that man is always very, very Stade Rennes, Birmingham City and Wigan important and Hazard at this point is the guy Athletic defender. he has picked.” “But if I change my mind it will be to work Melchiot says Hazard is Chelsea’s most cre- with children. I love the emotion of a child, to SPAIN: Real Madrid’s Cristiano Ronaldo (left) celebrates with teammates in this file photo. — AP ative influence but the collective strength of make him or her feel welcomed and loved the team is underpinned by the power of 6- and to understand the game but when it foot-4 (1.94-metre) Serbian international comes to the top level I just enjoy being a Matic in the holding midfielder’s role. fan.” Melchiot was not planning to visit Rayo next in firing line “Cesc Fabregas is one of the architects in Stamford Bridge at the weekend but he did the middle but at this point the player who is so as a treat for his mum. “I was asked in the really important in midfield is Matic,” morning if I wanted to go to the game and I explained the 38-year-old Dutchman who said no but, I was with my mum, and she real- for free-scoring Real won 22 caps for his country. ly wanted to go so at the last minute I made a “When the towering Peter Crouch came call to the stadium and I got one of the best MADRID: Real Madrid continue their pursuit of Jemez’s men in a 2-1 win at Eibar on Friday and Atletico lead Valencia by a point in the race to on as a late substitute for Stoke you could see seats,” he joked. Barcelona in the La Liga title race away to Rayo the former Manchester United striker is confi- secure automatic qualification for the the job Matic was doing to protect Chelsea. “My mum is a very big Chelsea fan. Playing Vallecano tomorrow fresh from a 9-1 thrashing dent of springing a surprise against their city Champions League next season, but will face a “This team depends on his positioning for this team made me who I am today. of Granada. rivals. “With the enthusiasm we have in the team stern test in a Sociedad side that has lost just and the way he makes the team so strong Wherever I go in the world people recognise Cristiano Ronaldo registered a five-goal haul and how we are playing at the moment, we once in their last eight La Liga games. defensively. Then, going forward it’s all about me for what I did in England and that started for the first time in his distinguished career as think we can beat Madrid,” he said. Rayo’s main However, in contrast to Ancelotti, Atletico Hazard,” Melchiot said. off for me at Chelsea and that’s why I will Madrid bounced back from losing a potentially- threat will be a well-known one to Madrid fans boss Diego Simeone said he plans to use every “That’s why sometimes they miss a little always be grateful to them.” — Reuters decisive clash against Barcelona before the inter- as former Real youth product Alberto Bueno’s 16 resource available to him with a Champions national break. Moreover, coach Carlo Ancelotti La Liga goals have made him the highest scoring League quarter-final between the two Madrid has almost a fully fit squad to choose from for Spaniard in the division. Barca maintained their giants just a week away. “It doesn’t matter if it is the first time in five months with centre-back stranglehold on the title race in less dramatic 10, 20 or 60 minutes, the important thing is to Pepe the only doubt for the trip across Madrid. fashion with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Celta do well when you get your chance because we Playmaker Isco is available once more after Vigo on Sunday to remain four points clear at think we have a strong squad,” said the missing out through suspension against the top of the table. Argentine. Granada, but Ancelotti insisted he is reluctant to However, the Catalans will be confident of a “When you get to this stage of the season, make too many changes after such a stunning more comfortable evening at home to manager- when there are a lot of games, we have to have return to form. less Almeria tomorrow. The Andalusians sacked internal competition and enthusiasm between “The team is very fresh. Resting players for Juan Ignacio Martinez at the weekend after a 4-1 the players for the minutes that the coach gives the sake of it doesn’t make sense. The players defeat to Levante left them in the relegation you.” Valencia slipped back to fourth after being will rest when they are tired and there is a risk of zone with Miguel Rivera set to take temporary held to a 0-0 draw by Villarreal on Sunday and injury,” said the Italian. charge, just as he did in a 4-1 defeat to Real face another tricky fixture when they travel to “We are in great form. We have never been in Madrid earlier in the season after Francisco had Athletic Bilbao on Thursday. this physical shape before, especially at this time been fired. Champions Atletico Madrid can Fifth-placed Sevilla could be level with Los last season.” Rayo come into the game in fine strengthen their position in third and move to Che by the time they kick-off in the Basque form themselves on the back of three victories within six points of the leaders when they host country as the Europa League holders now trail to take them into the top half of the table. David Moyes’s Real Sociedad at the Vicente Valencia by just three points and they visit Manucho was the match winner for Paco Calderon on Tuesday. Levante today. — AFP

Claudio Marchisio EPL serves up six of the best

LONDON: Normally the candidates for goal of the edge of the penalty area in their 4-1 win year-old said afterwards, “Words can’t describe Juve welcome back Marchisio the season are spread throughout the 10 over Liverpool. That was followed by Bafetimbi how I felt when it went in. I was very emotional months of the campaign, but this weekend’s Gomis’s acrobatic 37th minute volley that put for some reason.” Premier League matches produced six memo- Swansea 2-0 up against Hull City in an eventual The victory lifted Sunderland to 15th and in MILAN: Claudio Marchisio is back from stunned by a Mohamed Salah brace in the rable strikes in little over 24 hours. Whether 3-1 win. Six minutes later, Bobby Zamora scored the final analysis may have more lasting signifi- injury for Juventus as they bid to overturn a first leg in Turin last month. Charlie Adam’s 66 yard (60 metres) goal for with a floated dink with the outside of his left cance than the astonishing strike from Adam, 2-1 first leg deficit to Fiorentina in the sec- Allegri says he has been impressed by Stoke City against Chelsea was the pick of the foot for Queens Park Rangers in their 4-1 win at voted goal of the weekend in a BBC poll. ond-leg of the Italian Cup semi-final. the Egyptian, but is hoping the Bianconeri bunch or Jermain Defoe’s perfectly-executed West Bromwich Albion, with Adam then blast- The Scot collected the ball just outside the The Italy international midfielder has keep their focus and score the goals that winning volley for Sunderland in the Tyne-Wear ing home an equaliser a minute later at centre circle in his own half and after glancing been sidelined with a knee injury, but is would guarantee a first Italian Cup final in derby against Newcastle United is open to Stamford Bridge in a game the visitors lost 2-1. up and seeing Chelsea keeper Thibaut Courtois back in training ahead of today’s tie in three years. “Salah is a good player, debate. Next up was Wayne Rooney’s acrobatic 79th on the edge of his area, launched a left-footed Florence. Fiorentina did well in bringing him to the But what is undeniable is that all six were minute effort for Manchester United’s third in drive that hit the back of the net despite the “Marchisio is doing fine, he’s available club,” said Allegri. goals of the highest quality which left fans, pun- their 3-1 win over Aston Villa. Former England Belgian getting a hand to it. “I looked up and and today we’ll assess whether he’s match “It won’t be easy to turn things around, dits and the players themselves purring at the international Defoe then rounded off the stun- saw the goalie off his line and thought, ‘why fit or not. The few days of rest have helped but we’ll go to Florence and try. To go brilliance. ners just before halftime on Sunday by lashing not, especially at Chelsea.’ It’s great on a person- him,” said Juventus coach Massimiliano through we need to win by two clear goals The first eye-catcher to find the back of the home a left-foot volley from the edge of the al note, but it’s a team game and we lost, but it’s Allegri. so we will have to play things intelligently net was Alexis Sanchez’s effort for Arsenal from area. “It was an unbelievable feeling,” the 32- good to know I scored it.” — Reuters Allegri will still have to do without mid- and keep our focus.” Six-time winners field maestro Andrea Pirlo as he continues Fiorentina, who last lifted the trophy in his recovery from a hamstring injury, and 2011, were outgunned by Napoli in last the coach is set to replace stalwart year’s final. Despite their advantage from Gianluigi Buffon in goal with his under- the away leg, coach Vincenzo Montella is study Marco Storari. taking nothing for granted. “We have a “From tomorrow Pirlo will start to train small advantage, but it will count for little,” again then we’ll look at his condition,” he told reporters yesterday. “I’m expecting added Allegri. “It will be good to have him an open game. Juventus are a strong side back. Even if he’s not in top condition his and will fancy their chances, but so do we.” tactical intelligence is a plus.” Holders Napoli host Lazio in the other He added: “We’ll be sending out a strong semi-final on Wednesday. Their first leg fin- team with Storari in goal.” Juventus were ished 1-1 in Rome. — AFP Blackpool rocked as Bournemouth go top LONDON: Blackpool were relegated to the heading for a surprise win when Clayton third tier of English football yesterday just Donaldson and David Cotterill struck in four years after playing in the Premier three first-half minutes. League, while Bournemouth stormed to But Eddie Howe’s team hit back as the top of the Championship with a dra- strikes from Steve Cook, Callum Wilson, matic 4-2 win over Birmingham. Charlie Daniels and a Yann Kermorgant GERMANY: Bayern Munich’s players celebrate in this file photo. — AFP Lee Clark’s Blackpool aren’t due to play penalty helped Bournemouth equal their until Tuesday when they host Reading, but club record of 104 goals in a single season. that match is now meaningless for the bot- The Cherries are now one point clear of Bayern eager to carry tom of the table Seasiders. second placed Norwich with five games They have looked odds on for relegation remaining. Bradley Johnson’s season to for most of the season after starting the remember continued as Norwich recorded campaign with barely enough players to a 2-0 win over Sheffield Wednesday to winning momentum make a full team and Clark, who led move into the top two for the first time Birmingham to second tier survival on the since October. Former Leeds midfielder final day of last season, wasn’t able avoid Johnson netted his 12th and 13th goals of BERLIN: Bayern Munich’s treble ambitions are and Arjen Robben as well as David Alaba, who Wednesday’s game, providing Guardiola with the drop for a second successive year. the season late in the first half at Carrow put to the test tomorrow in the German Cup tore a knee ligament and will be out for about more punching power. Leverkusen, eager to Their plunge into League One was con- Road to keep Norwich ahead of third quarter-final when their injury-hit side travel to two months. remain in the top four to secure yet another firmed by fourth bottom Rotherham’s 1-0 placed Watford on goal difference. in-form Bayer Leverkusen. They were also missing defender Holger Champions League campaign next season, have win over Brighton yesterday. Matt Troy Deeney became the first Watford The Bavarians, runaway leaders in the Badstuber, forcing coach Pep Guardiola to over- won their last five Bundesliga games without Derbyshire’s early goal for Rotherham player in history to score 20 goals in three Bundesliga and through to the Champions haul his team and play a new-look midfield with conceding a goal as they hit top form. sealed the points at the New York Stadium, consecutive seasons as the Hornets beat League last eight where they face Porto later this captain Philipp Lahm, Xabi Alonso and Bastian “We want to advance but we know it will be boosting the hosts’ survival hopes and previous leaders Middlesbrough 2-0 at month, are eager to repeat their 2013 treble- Schweinsteiger. hard,” Leverkusen’s Gonzalo Castro said. “We making it mathematically impossible for Vicarage Road. The Watford captain’s his- winning campaign as the season enters its final “I would have liked to have played differently know what we can do and we can play with con- Blackpool to beat the drop-just five years toric moment came in the 37th minute stretch. but I have to adapt the system to my players.” fidence. Our counter attacks are extremely fast after Ian Holloway had guided the club into when he converted an Adlene Guedioura A 1-0 league victory at Borussia Dortmund on Guardiola, in his second season in charge after and good. After our 4-0 win and five straight vic- the Premier League, where they spent a cross before Odion Ighalo’s fine second half Saturday despite a string of absences was crucial winning the domestic double last year, will have tories our confidence is very high.” season before being relegated in 2011. strike condemned Middlesbrough to a to boost their confidence ahead of the Cup the chance to slightly alter his system again with In another all-Bundesliga clash Borussia Meanwhile, Bournemouth fought back defeat that saw them drop to fourth place. game, keeper Manuel Neuer said. midfielder Thiago Alcantara making a comeback Dortmund, finalists last season, take on from two goals down at Dean Court to Fifth placed Derby won for the first time “The 1-0 victory was a very good sign for us,” on Saturday after more than a year out injured. Hoffenheim on Tuesday eager to edge closer to return to the top in the race for promotion in eight matches as goals from Chris Martin Neuer, who made a spectacular save in stoppage The addition of the skilled Spain international the final and a possible European spot after a dis- to the Premier League. and Darren Bent secured a 2-0 win at time to protect their slim lead, told reporters. is undoubtedly a major asset when they take on mal league showing this season. VfL Wolfsburg Birmingham, who had captain Paul Wigan that left the second from bottom “We have to try to carry this momentum to our Leverkusen, who crushed Hamburg SV 4-0 in face Freiburg and Borussia Moenchengladbach Robinson sent off late on, had looked to be hosts on the verge of relegation. —AFP game at Leverkusen.” their league game on Saturday. take on third-tier Arminia Bielefeld in the other Bayern were without wingers Franck Ribery Ribery could also be back in time for two quarter-finals. — Reuters TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 SPORTS Spotlight on Cairo as African bosses meet

JOHANNESBURG: The African football spotlight dential election. The Swiss brought the World Cup to two years from now will be made only this week. back into a competition they won for the only time falls on Cairo this week with FIFA presidential hope- Africa for the first time in 2010 and FIFA financial Spiralling post-Moamer Kadhafi-era violence 39 years ago. Tunisia escaped a ban after apologis- fuls electioneering while a proposed rule change support helps keep afloat many national football forced 2017 hosts Libya to withdraw last year and ing for accusing CAF of bias in a controversial 2015 could extend the reign of CAF strongman Issa federations. Algeria, Gabon, Ghana are bidding to replace them. Cup of Nations quarter-final defeat by Equatorial Hayatou. Other CAF business includes choosing a Recurring crowd trouble could count against Algeria Guinea. host country for the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations and SENIOR AGE LIMIT and location might rule out Gabon as another cen- making the qualifying draw for that competition. CAF want to change a rule that prevents officials tral African state, Equatorial Guinea, were the 2015 FIFA EXECUTIVE There will also be a vote to select two African rep- serving beyond 70, which would force Hayatou to hosts. Ghana held a successful, goal-packed 2008 Tunisian Tarek Bouchamaoui and Constant resentatives for the FIFA executive committee. AFP step down as president in August next year. tournament, have the required four international- Selemani from the Democratic Republic of Congo sport looks at the main items as leading African offi- There is little doubt that the proposal will be standard stadiums, and appear to tick all the boxes. are expected to win a race with Ivorian Jacques cials gather at a hotel near the Nile river. passed, allowing the tall Cameroonian to continue a Anouma to fill two places on the FIFA executive reign that began in 1988. He is the longest serving CUP OF NATIONS DRAW committee. Anouma wanted to challenge Hayatou FIFA PRESIDENCY HOPEFULS CAF boss, surpassing the 16 years of Ethiopian Morocco and Tunisia will be among the entrants for the CAF presidency two years ago, but a rule FIFA president Sepp Blatter is sure to receive an Ydnekatchew Tessema, who died in 1987. for the 2017 Cup of Nations qualifying draw sched- change disqualified him. emotional welcome on a continent where he enjoys Hayatou considers helping bring the 2010 World uled to take place after the hosts are named Algerian Mohamed Raouraoua was expected to massive support. His three rivals for the top world Cup to South Africa his greatest achievement and Wednesday. Having refused to host the 2015 tourna- stand for re-election, but withdrew after reportedly football job-Jordanian Prince Ali bin Al Hussein, dreams of a World Cup-winning African team. ment on the agreed dates because they feared visi- losing the support of Hayatou. The successful candi- Dutchman Michel van Praag and former Portugal tors could bring the deadly Ebola virus into the dates will join Hayatou and Egyptian Hany Abo Rida star Luis Figo-are also expected to seek support. CUP OF NATIONS HOSTS country, Morocco were barred from the 2017 and as CAF representatives at FIFA House in Zurich. It would be a shock, though, if Blatter failed to While Guinea were selected 2023 Cup of Nations 2019 Cup of Nations.But a successful appeal to the Burundian female Lydia Nsekera is a non-CAF mem- garner virtually all 54 African votes in the May presi- hosts last year, a decision on who stages the edition Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) allowed Morocco ber of the global body executive. — AFP Milan slam alleged racist abuse of 10 year olds

MILAN: AC Milan have hit out after several unacceptable.” It is the latest in a long line of black players in the Serie A side’s under-10 incidents of a racist nature to sully Italian foot- squad allegedly suffered racist abuse at the ball. In January 2013, former Milan forward hands of parents attending an international Kevin Prince-Boateng reopened the debate junior football tournament over the Easter into how to tackle racism in football when he weekend. and several other black players were targeted The incidents are believed to have taken by racists during a friendly with a lower divi- place during the side’s 4-0 win over Paris sion side. Boateng walked off the pitch, his Saint-Germain in the Universal Cup, currently teammates followed and the game, against taking place in Forte dei Marmi in Tuscany, Pro Patria, was abandoned. Boateng and for- yesterday. mer teammate Mario Balotelli were targeted Players’ agent Mino Raiola, who represents by monkey chants later that season by fans of Mario Balotelli and Zlatan Ibrahimovic among rival Serie A side Roma. other top players, pulled the alarm when he More recently, former Italy and AC Milan posted a message about the scenes on Twitter coach Arrigo Sacchi kicked up a storm that late on Sunday. “In shock about today’s warranted a stiff response from the Italian gov- Milan/PSG in Universal Cup, parents booing ernment when he complained under-20 teams colour 10 year olds. Heads up boys we’re in Italy contained “too many blacks”. Graziano stronger than weak ignorant racists,” said Delrio, the State Secretary to Prime Minister Raiola. Matteo Renzi who also holds responsibility for Milan on Monday did not confirm whether sport in the Italian council of ministers, hit out: the incidents took place, but said if confirmed “The Italy of 30 years ago is not the Italy of they were “unacceptable”. “We have been told today. “Today there are young players who are of alleged incidents of a racist nature during Italian citizens in fact and by right given that yesterday’s game between Milan and PSG in they were born and raised in Italy even if their which coloured kids were targeted by ‘people’ parents had overseas roots. “They are part of attending the game,” read the statement. “We the young generations who go to our schools, do not want to amplify or exaggerate any- who play on our football and sports fields. “And thing, but we sincerely hope the allegations the theme of skin colour is certainly not where are unfounded or that it has been an isolated we should start trying to revitalise our youth case. “However, if they are true, it is absolutely system.” — AFP

FRANCE: Paris Saint-Germain’s Swedish midfielder Zlatan Ibrahimovic (center) vies for the ball with Marseille’s French defender Rod Fanni (left) and Marseille’s Togolese midfielder Jacques-Alaixys Romao (right) during the French League football match. — AFP PSG back on top with 3-2 win over Marseille

PARIS: Two goals in three minutes earned Paris PSG centre back David Luiz sustained a possi- Marcelo Bielsa substituted the disappointing St Germain a 3-2 win at bitter rivals Olympique ble hamstring injury and was substituted by Florian Thauvin for Lucas Ocampos in midfield de Marseille as the French champions regained Gregory van der Wiel in the 34th minute. before sending on Michy Batshuayi for Gignac, the Ligue 1 lead on Sunday. In the 35th, PSG hit back with Matuidi curling who was sent off after the final whistle for argu- Andre-Pierre Gignac scored twice as OM a superb shot from just inside the box into the far ing with the referee. Neither change could alter reached the interval with a 2-1 advantage after top corner. Javier Pastore then lost possession in Marseille’s fate, which had been sealed by their Blaise Matuidi had equalised, only for the visitors the midfield and Alaixys Romao set up Gignac, three-minute snooze. PSG, who will take on to score through Marquinhos and Jeremy Morel’s who slotted the ball past Sirigu two minutes Barcelona in the Champions League quarter- own goal in the 49th and 51st. PSG have 62 before the break. Marseille though got off to a finals in 10 days, then lost Thiago Motta to a pos- points with seven games left and lead terrible start in the second half and they paid sible thigh injury in added time. “We lost two Olympique Lyonnais, who beat En Avant dearly for it. Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s free kick was players and it’s worrying ahead of the important Guingamp 3-1 away on Saturday, by one point deflected by goalkeeper Steve Mandanda into games that await us,” said Matuidi. It meant that with Marseille in third on 57. the path of Marquinhos, who smashed the ball PSG, who had made their three substitutions, fin- OM, who had lost only one of their last eight into the roof of the net in the 49th minute. ished the game with 10 men but they calmly league games, were on the back foot early on but Two minutes later, Morel, pressured by held on. Earlier, Girondins de Bordeaux kept they went ahead on the half hour when Gignac Ibrahimovic, deflected a cross into his own goal their slim Champions League hopes alive by sent a powerful header past Salvatore Sirigu from as PSG took the lead. PSG came close to making beating bottom club RC Lens 2-1 to stay sixth on Dimitri Payet’s cross. it 4-2 when Pastore’s low shot shaved the post. 51 points. — Reuters Dortmund eye Europa place via Cup success

BERLIN: Borussia Dortmund aim to win this sea- Robert Lewandowski headed the winner against Bayern are already missing a trio of injured son’s German Cup to keep alive their hopes of his former club. stars in David Alaba, Arjen Robben and Franck European competition next season ahead of Holders Bayern have fresh injury woes for the Ribery. But Pep Guardiola’s Bavarian giants wel- today’s quarter-final against Hoffenheim. key tie of the round in Leverkusen with Germany comed back Spain midfielder Thiago Alcantara Dortmund host Hoffenheim while Wolfsburg star Bastian Schweinsteiger the latest on their for the last 20 minutes in Dortmund after a year are home to Freiburg on Tuesday, then holders casualty list. An injury to his left ankle saw out with injury. The German Cup semi-finals will Bayern are at Bayer Leverkusen on Wednesday Germany’s captain hobbled out of Saturday’s 1-0 be played on April 28 and 29 with the final in as second-division Arminia Bielefeld host win at Dortmund. Berlin on Saturday, May 30. — AFP Borussia Moenchengladbach in the rounds only ARGENTINA: San Lorenzo’s defender Mario Yepes (right) and River Plate’s defender Jonatan non-Bundesliga tie. Maidana vie for the ball during their Argentina First Division football match. — AFP Borussia’s 1-0 league defeat at home to Bayern on Saturday left them tenth in the table and effectively ended their hopes of a fifth year Boca defeat Huracan in the Champions League next season. Jurgen Klopp’s side are now 15 points from qualifying with a top four finish following a dire BUENOS AIRES: Boca Juniors went top of the he began his career 10 years ago in the second set of results earlier in the season which left Argentine championship with a 2-0 win at division before moving to Italy as a 19-year-old. Huracan on Sunday thanks to a brace from mid- Osvaldo was unable to add to his three first divi- them bottom of the Bundesliga in February. fielder Marcelo Meli. sion goals, having an effort ruled out for offside, But the 2012 German Cup winners could yet The match marked the return of Boca striker but hit a superb through ball into the box for claim a Europa League berth, either by winning Daniel Osvaldo to Huracan’s Duco ground where Meli’s 25th-minute opener. this year’s final at Berlin’s Olympic Stadium or a Huracan had more of the ball than Boca in top six finish in the Bundesliga table. the second half but were largely ineffective up “The cup game is now very important for us. front with striker Ramon Avila regularly caught Going to Berlin is still a major goal for the sea- offside. son,” said Dortmund’s director of sport Michael Matches on TV Meli made sure of the points two minutes Zorc. (Local Timings) from time when he scored his second of the “And although it is still far away, it is of course game. Unbeaten Boca have 20 points from eight a way to get back into international competi- English Premier League matches, two more points than San Lorenzo, tion.” Dortmund have to rediscover their scoring River Plate and Rosario Central. Rodolfo touch at home after failing to claim a single goal Aston Villa v QPR 21:45 Arruabarrena’s side have made their best start to in any of their last three games at Borussia’s beIN SPORTS 1 HD a championship but the coach was not interest- Westfalenstadion in all competitions. ed in statistics. Spanish League “We can give ourselves a big boost for the “Record? We have to become champions, rest of the season with a good result and per- Atletico v Sociedad 21:00 that’s the record we need,” Arruabarrena told formance against Hoffenheim,” said Germany beIN SPORTS 2 HD broadcaster Futbol Para Todos. “The rest is statis- midfielder Sven Bender. SD Eibar v Malaga 23:00 tics which only indicate that we’ve got used to But Dortmund will need to improve on their beIN SPORTS 6 HD winning.” San Lorenzo began the weekend in Bayern defeat which left captain Mats Hummels Levante v Sevilla 23:00 first place but lost 1-0 at River earlier on Sunday ruing their “inefficiency” after failing to convert beIN SPORTS 7 HD while Central were held 3-3 at Defensa y Justicia on Saturday. —Reuters their 15 chances as Bayern’s ex-Dortmund striker GERMANY: Dortmund’s head coach Juergen Klopp attends a match in this file photo. — AFP Spurs roll past Lincicome beats Warriors Lewis in ANA 15 Inspiration16 playoff TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015

Spotlight on Cairo as African bosses meet Page 19

KEY BISCAYNE: Novak Djokovic of Serbia plays in the men’s final of the Miami Open against Andy Murray at Crandon Park Tennis Center. (Inset) Djokovic holds aloft the Butch Bucholz trophy. — AFP Djokovic wins Miami Masters title

MIAMI: World number one Novak Djokovic roared home was in his historic Wimbledon final triumph of 2013, start- A frustrated Djokovic barked at those in his box on the Maybe I could have done a little bit better in the tiebreak in a 7-6 (7/3), 4-6, 6-0 win over Andy Murray on Sunday to ed strong in a bid to end a six-match skid against the Serb. change over, startling a nearby ball kid and earning a in the first set, but, yeah, that was it,” he said of his fast fade claim a fifth Miami Masters title. The two traded four breaks of serve in the first eight warning from the chair umpire. in the third. Serbia’s Djokovic pushed his career record against the games of the tense first set in which both struggled on But the Serb regrouped, storming through the third set Murray said he wasn’t sure what he could do differently Scot to 18-8, adding the triumph in the championship serve on one sun-splashed end of the court. for the win. “Of course I go through moments of doubt, as to avoid the problem. “I’ve trained as hard as I can,” he said. match on the hardcourts of Miami to victories over Murray “It was just very tough, brutal conditions for both of us,” everybody else,” the world number one said. “Maybe I could have hydrated a little bit better or whatev- this year in the Australian Open final and the semi-finals of Djokovic said. “We tried to stay mentally tough, both of us, “But it’s important to keep those moments short... er, but I don’t think that I can do a whole lot more physical- the Indian Wells Masters. and kind of hang in there, battle, and wear down the other That’s what happened today. I just gathered my thoughts ly to get in much better shape. “I could not ask for a better start of the season, winning player physically. and all the energy into right direction, and that helped.” “I just have to try and keep working hard and see if three big titles,” Djokovic said. “Hopefully I’m able to use “There were lots of exchanges, a lot of long rallies. I was Murray had a glimmer of hope of avoiding the unde- there are a few things I can do differently which might this for the claycourt coming up. That’s extremely impor- expecting that coming into the match, but one thing is to sired “bagel” with a break chance against Djokovic in the help. He was stronger than me at the end for sure.” tant for me obviously leading up to French.” Djokovic really expect and the other is to really experience it and sixth game. He couldn’t convert and Djokovic gave himself Nevertheless, the performance gave Murray more to be became the first man to complete the Indian Wells-Miami really go through it on the court.” a match point with a cunning drop shot-lob combination. pleased about than his loss to Djokovic in less than an Masters title sweep three times, having also done so in Djokovic was quick to seize the initiative in the tiebreak- The Serb finished Murray off on his first opportunity, hour and a half at Indian Wells a fortnight earlier. “I felt like I 2011 and 2014. er, racing to a 4-0 lead, and despite a double fault Djokovic pulling him out wide with a serve then stroking a winner did many things better,” Murray said. “I made the match a On Monday, Djokovic will tie Spain’s Rafael Nadal for had quickly wrapped up the decider 7/3. into the open court on match point. “I just managed to lot harder for him. the sixth-most weeks spent at the top of the rankings, sit- The second set went with serve until Djokovic, looking play the third set the way I was supposed to.” “I felt like I was going for my shots a little bit more. I ting atop the summit for the 141st week in his career. weary, was broken in the final game, gifting Murray a dou- Even though Murray makes Miami his training base, he did pretty much all of the things that I wanted to do Murray, meanwhile, is poised to return to number three ble fault for 0-30 before the Brit belted two winners to said he struggled physically late in the two-hour, 46- tactically on the court, so I felt like I played a good in the world. The Scot, whose last victory over Djokovic force a third set. minute match. “I played very well for a couple of sets. match tactically.” — AFP Prince Ali expects sponsors Japan’s centenarian to snub FIFA if Blatter stays notches swim record TOKYO: A 100-year-old Japanese woman 104 age category, clocking up a respectable CAIRO: FIFA presidential candidate Prince Ali bin Al- FIFA revenue topped $2 billion last year, adding has become the world’s first centenarian to 29.83 seconds. Hussein believes the scandal-hit organization will $91 million to its reserves, which now stand at $1.523 complete a 1,500-metre freestyle swim, 20 His late-blooming athletic prowess has struggle to replace sponsors and be damaged finan- billion after the World Cup in Brazil. years after she took up the sport. seen him dubbed “Golden Bolt”-a reference cially if Sepp Blatter remains in charge. “FIFA is riding on the success of the World Cup,” Mieko Nagaoka took just under an hour to Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt. Five of FIFA’s top 14 sponsors decided in recent Prince Ali said from Cairo where he is campaigning at and 16 minutes to finish the race as the sole Meanwhile, In Sydney, Kyle Chalmers months not to extend their deals, leaving a void a Confederation of African Football meeting. “We competitor in the 100 - 104-year-old cate- and defending champion Cameron McEvoy ahead of the high-profile qualifying draw event for could gain so much more if there was more faith and gory at a short course pool in Ehime, west- helped consign dual world champion James the 2018 World Cup in Russia in July. more trust in how FIFA is run.” ern Japan, on Saturday. Magnussen to fourth place in qualifying for None of the departing sponsors, including Sony Prince Ali echoed his rivals by offering to redistrib- “I want to swim until I turn 105 if I can the 100m freestyle final at the Australian and Emirates airline, spoke out publicly against world ute more of FIFA’s funds to the 209 national associa- live that long,” the sprightly Nagaoka told world championships trials yesterday. football’s governing body. But Prince Ali of Jordan has tions, but he also guaranteed to help fund national Kyodo News. Her achievement is expected McEvoy topped the time sheets with used his FIFA campaign manifesto, which was stadiums in countries without them. Prince Ali bin Al-Hussein of Jordan. to be recognised by Guinness World 48.60 seconds, while Chalmers qualified launched yesterday, to express concerns that corrup- Prince Ali is one of three candidates trying to stop election purposes,” he said. Records, the agency reported. second fastest for the final in 48.89 seconds, tion allegations around FIFA are putting off commer- Blatter being re-elected for a fifth, four-year term in The 2026 World Cup is already on FIFA’s agenda, Nagaoka, who published a book last year under his own 100m national 16 year age cial backers. May along with Dutch FA head Michael van Praag with a vote on the host being set recently for 2017. entitled “I’m 100 years old and the world’s record. “The damage which is being exacted upon ‘Brand and former Portugal international Luis Figo. Prince Ali said he backs switching the competition best active swimmer”, is no stranger to the Tommaso D’Orsogna was third-fastest in FIFA’ has financial implications,” the FIFA vice president While not disclosing how much support he has, between continents, which would boost an American 1,500-metre race, having completed the dis- 49.06, and Magnussen posted 49.11 ahead said in the manifesto. “Sponsors have begun to vote Prince Ali said: “I think the majority of national associ- bid as the CONCACAF region has not staged a World tance at the age of 99 in an Olympic-sized of today’s final. Magnussen’s form is under with their feet. If drastic action is not taken urgently to ations certainly believe that it’s crucial to have a Cup since the U.S. hosted the prestigious tournament pool. scrutiny following a change of coaches cou- restore the image of our governing body, we can change at this time for the sake of FIFA and the future in 1994. Nagaoka only took up swimming when pled with a shoulder injury. expect revenues to reduce and, in turn, monies avail- of football.” “It is the world game and there should be rota- she hit 80, one of the growing number of “I thought I would go faster than that,” able to national associations to also go down.” The 79-year-old Blatter has not released a mani- tion,” said Prince Ali, who is also open to countries elderly Japanese who are enjoying longer Magnussen told reporters. “There are plenty FIFA said in January it was in “advanced negotia- festo or offered any plans for FIFA if a reign which from different continents co-hosting a World Cup. and healthier lives as the country ages. of unknowns in terms of where I am at but I tions” with potential partners for the 2018 World Cup, began in 1998 is extended through 2019. Prince Ali is troubled by the fact FIFA sold the There were nearly 59,000 centenarians in am confident I have done enough work to but no information on new sponsors have been The centerpiece of Figo’s manifesto was a proposal American television rights to the 2026 tournament to Japan in September last year, government swim fast. Tomorrow there is no holding announced since then. to expand the World Cup from 32 to 48 teams, while Fox without inviting other bids to avert possible legal figures show-which means 46 out of every back.” Magnussen may not have produced “We should have a situation where sponsors are Van Praag has suggested a 40-team competition in a action from the broadcaster over switching the 2022 100,000 people is 100 or over. Among them his best in the semi-finals but McEvoy said not only willing to come back but we should have bid to woo voters. World Cup in Qatar from June-July to November- are several who remain physically active he was not fooled. sponsors fighting to sponsor FIFA,” Prince Ali said in a But Prince Ali said he would not make hasty December. long after many people have given up the “I would be foolish going into a race telephone interview with The Associated Press. pledges about expanding the World Cup just to win “There needs to be a proper tendering process ghost. thinking he is not going to be anything but “Obviously I would like to see (the sponsors) back the vote of FIFA’s 209 national associations on May 29. and my big concern is that decisions have been made They include 103-year-old sprinter the best (on Tuesday night),” said McEvoy, but we also like to see other options as well. It is “My concern is (the World Cup) will be used by by people who probably won’t be part of the organi- Hidekichi Miyazaki, who holds the world who upset Magnussen at last year’s 100m important to have an organization that has a good some to make promises that maybe they won’t even zation by 2026,” he said. “And we aren’t talking about record for the 100-metre dash in the 100 - final. — AFP reputation that sponsors feel totally confident in.” be able to deliver on in the future, but are using it for small money.” — AFP European firms unpick global production model

Page 22 Business Strikes proliferate in China as working class awakens TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 Page 23 flydubai boosts frequency on Need to address flaws in CMA framework Africa routes Page 25 Page 26

ATHENS: Banners hang in front of the Athens University yesterday as protesters gather to call for the re-opening of factories closed due to austerity measures and the re-hiring of laid off employees. The main banner reads “bring back all the laid off’. — AFP Greece reassures on key IMF debt payment Athens downplays concerns over meeting payment deadline WASHINGTON: Greece has confirmed it will make a 460 which relations between Greece and its creditors find cial obligations. Working Group meetings to give it some relief from its million euro ($505 million) debt payment to the themselves” made such a meeting necessary. It also called the meeting “productive” and said it was creditors. Euro-zone deputy finance ministers will meet on International Monetary Fund this week as it seeks to allay However, the source downplayed more serious con- held in a “particularly positive atmosphere.” April 8 and 9 in an attempt to reach an agreement on the concerns over the country’s solvency. cerns. “An initial high-level meeting between the new gov- Greek reforms needed to unlock the last tranche of its IMF chief Christine Lagarde said late Sunday that Greek ernment’s finance minister and the IMF director was Water torture? bailout package. Finance Minister Yanis Varoufakis had pledged to make the expected,” the source said. There was speculation ahead of Greece has not received the remaining funds in its 240- While the tone has been more conciliatory in recent payment on time in a meeting Washington. “Minister the visit that Athens might fail to meet the instalment if billion-euro European Union-IMF rescue package as days, differences persist and time is not on Athens’ side. Varoufakis and I exchanged views on current develop- forced to choose between paying the IMF and paying gov- Brussels has demanded to first approve Greece’s revised Beyond the IMF payment, “there is a liquidity problem and ments and we both agreed that effective cooperation is in ernment workers. reform plan. the discussions must lead to the end of water torture,” everyone’s interest,” Lagarde said in a statement. Athens though wants the IMF, the European Lagarde said she appreciated Varoufakis’ commitment Labor Minister Panos Skourletis told Greek radio yesterday. “We noted that continuing uncertainty is not in Greece’s Commission and the European Central Bank to recast their to continued talks on its economic plan in Brussels-which Since 2010, Athens has received two successive loans from interest and I welcomed confirmation by the minister that massive financial aid to the country as it tries to turn its were to resume yesterday-and to supporting the work of the EU and the IMF totalling 240 billion euros in exchange payment owing to the Fund would be forthcoming on economy around. lenders’ technical teams reviewing Greece’s progress. “The for tough austerity measures and sweeping economic April 9th.” Last month, Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras had Fund remains committed to work together with the reforms. Announced barely a day in advance, Varoufakis’ meeting warned German Chancellor Angela Merkel in a letter that authorities to help Greece return to a sustainable path of The government that took power in January however with Lagarde had added to speculation that Greece and its Athens would not be able to service its debt without more growth and employment,” Lagarde added. has engaged in difficult negotiations with European new hard-left government was finding it increasingly diffi- financial help from the European Union. Varoufakis’ min- Varoufakis was also due to meet US Treasury officials on leaders to continue receiving support while easing the cult to raise money to pay its debts. A Greek government istry however reiterated after his meeting with Lagarde Monday as well as Caroline Atkinson, an aide to President austerity requirements in order to boost economic source yesterday acknowledged that “the crucial phase in that the Greek government intended to meet all its finan- Barack Obama. Athens is betting on this week’s Euro growth. — AFP Property firms buoy Islamic finance must address Dubai; Saudi rallies challenges to thrive: IMF

DUBAI: The Islamic finance system faces several key MIDEAST STOCK MARKETS challenges if it is to unlock its huge potential and develop safely, the International Monetary Fund said DUBAI: Real estate-related shares led prices after world powers reached a prelimi- yesterday. Dubai’s stock market higher yesterday while nary nuclear deal with Iran, which could lead The ethical-based fast-growing sector, which bans Saudi Arabia rose modestly because of high- to a lifting of sanctions on Tehran and more speculation, still lacks regulatory and supervisory er oil prices. Heavy profit-taking, fuelled by Iranian oil supplied to the market. Brent oil frameworks catering to its unique risks, the IMF said in weak economic data, continued to weigh on plunged nearly 4.0 percent on Thursday. a report. Islamic finance-the provision of financial Egypt. The Dubai stock index climbed 1.2 Brent rebounded 3.3 percent to $56.75 a services in accordance with sharia law-has so far been percent, buoyed in part by last week’s poor barrel on Monday, encouraging cautious governed mostly by frameworks developed for con- US jobs data, which appeared to reduce buying-back of Saudi stocks. Saudi Basic ventional finance, it said. chances that the US Federal Reserve would Industries, the biggest petrochemical firm, Cross-border operations of Islamic financial insti- hike interest rates anytime soon. Gulf rose 1.2 percent. tutions have expanded considerably without regula- economies will probably imitate US mone- Egypt’s index, which tumbled 3.2 per- tory harmonization, the IMF said. “These develop- tary policy because of their currency pegs, cent on Sunday as a three-week spate of ments indicate a need for increased regulatory clarity and a delay to tightening is positive for the heavy profit-taking continued, fell a further and harmonization, closer cooperation between interest rate-sensitive real estate firms which 1.2 percent yesterday. The Egyptian index Islamic and conventional financial standard-setters, are weighted heavily in Dubai. has plunged 15 percent from February’s and further enhancement of tools for effective super- Union Properties climbed 7.9 percent, multi-year peak and is down 4.7 percent vision,” it said. The industry is still largely nascent, lack- Deyar rose 4.4 percent and the biggest prop- year-to-date, though it is still up 25 percent ing economies of scale and operating in an environ- erty firm, Emaar , added 1.7 percent. DAMAC, from the end of 2013. One reason for the ment where legal and tax rules, financial infrastruc- which surged 8.0 percent on Sunday after pull-back has been disappointing economic ture and access to financial safety nets and central BRUSSELS: Greek Finance Minister Yanis Varoufakis (right) speaking with International saying it would consider taking an equity data; the non-oil private sector shrank in bank liquidity are either absent or do not take its spe- Monetary Fund (IMF) Director Christine Lagarde during an emergency Eurogroup finance min- stake in a project to build a 50-storey mixed- March for the third month in a row, though cial characteristics into account, the IMF said. Islamic isters meeting at the European Council in Brussels. — AFP use tower in central London - its entry into at a slower pace than the previous month’s finance bans interest, products with excessive uncer- Britain’s property market - added a further contraction, a purchasing managers’ survey tainty, gambling, short sales and financing prohibited are clients of the Islamic finance industry, which has greater financial inclusion, especially of large under- 6.6 percent. showed on Sunday. Orascom Telecom activities considered harmful to society. surged in popularity since its niche market days of the served Muslim populations. Saudi Arabia’s stock market rebounded, Media and Technology Holding was the The industry is also based on shared profit and early 1970s. But it continues to represent less than Its emphasis on asset-backed financing and risk- although it closed well off its highs and most heavily traded stock yesterday after loss, which minimizes risk for banks and avoids deal- two percent of global conventional banking assets of sharing mean it could support small and medium- turnover was the lowest since November, shareholders approved proposals including ing in debt and derivatives such as foreign exchange $140 trillion, it said. Although Islamic regulatory bod- sized businesses, as well as investment in public infra- suggesting the market remains technically plans for the company to expand into new forwards and futures, the IMF said. ies have established standards, different interpreta- structure, said the IMF, also noting the importance of weak. sectors such as power, transport and logis- The sector has doubled in size over the past four tions of religious texts and weak implementation Sukuk, or Islamic bonds. Islamic finance’s risk-sharing The stock index had sunk 1.7 percent on tics. The stock ended flat at 1.04 Egyptian years and is now worth more than $2 trillion (1.76 tril- mean they lack harmonization. features and prohibition of speculation suggest that it Sunday because of the prospect of lower oil pounds. — Reuters lion euros) as demand for its products rises rapidly. The IMF said Islamic finance has the potential to may, in principle, pose less systemic risk than conven- Around 40 million of the world’s 1.6 billion Muslims contribute to the global economy, promising to foster tional finance, it said. — AFP TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 BUSINESS

Dimah Capital Weekly Report News in brief China’s deflation risk to the global economy US dollar drops to KD 0.299 against dinar By Hayder Tawfiik KUWAIT: The exchange rate of the US dollar against the nvestors, businessmen, industrialists and politicians’ world over are Kuwaiti dinar dropped to KD 0.299, while the euro betting that China and Asia would be a huge market for everyone reached KD 0.329 yesterday, compared to Sunday’s and returns on investment should outweigh all other risks. This rates. The Central Bank of Kuwait said in its daily bulletin I that the exchange rate of the sterling was recorded at might be true in the long term, but it would be important to address currency rates to KD 0.447, the Swiss franc dropped to KD 0. 314, while ensure foreign goods are not facing a disad- the Japanese yen was unchanged at KD 0.002. The US vantage. Also, this is very important for economy is awaiting the Federal Reserve Bank’s deci- investors. Currency devaluation can easily sion on raising profits’ prices, as the number of new jobs wipe out any potential future investment in the country last March had recorded the lowest rates returns. One of the most important chal- in over a year. Meanwhile, the exchange rate of the euro lenges is how to address currency rates and has dropped, thus prompting investors to buy the cur- how they match up to make sure that rency rather than the US dollar. imported goods into China and Asia are not artificially inflated in price and their goods are artificially deflated in price. At present this challenge is overlooked as deflation is sweeping Dhofar sets price, ratio the whole Asian continent. for 45m rial rights issue I have always argued that a weaker currency can never make an DUBAI: Oman’s Bank Dhofar, the sultanate’s second-largest economy stronger. On the contrary it can lead to a false feeling of all ok lender by assets, has set the share price and the subscrip- on the front. Devaluing one’s currency is thus a fool’s game, since it ben- tion ratio for its upcoming 45 million rial ($116.9 million) efits one segment of society (exporters) but harms everyone else (con- rights issue, according to a bourse statement yesterday. sumers, who have to pay more for the imported goods they purchase). The issue is priced at 0.275 rials a share, the bourse filing Back in 1995, China decided to peg its currency against the $ dollar. ATHENS: A woman begs for money outside a bank’s branch in central Athens yesterday. Greece has said, with shareholders eligible to subscribe to 105 new That decision was good for China at that time and it was acceptable to shares for every 1000 held. No date was given for the com- everyone else, including the US. Some other Asian nations have fol- agreed to repay its debt to the International Monetary Fund by April 9, IMF chief Christine Lagarde said after a meeting with Greek Finance Minister Yanis Varoufakis. —AFP mencement of the rights issue, which is still subject to reg- lowed the same policy. Currency pegging is fine so as long as they ulatory approvals from the Central Bank of Oman and the understand and accept that under a targeted exchange rate regime, Capital Market Authority. The lender received shareholder the economy is forced to adjust if the exchange rate chosen is too approval for the offering on March 30, which is in addition strong or too weak. If the currency is pegged at a rate that is too weak to the planned capital-boosting bond of $300 million then imports will be too expensive and inflation will tend to rise, and European firms unpick which shareholders have already approved. the price of goods and services will rise until the currency’s artificial cheapness is offset. In the long run, pegging one’s currency at a low lev- el will only result in inflation and perhaps a temporary boost to exports. global production model Hanwha Group wins The biggest problem the Chinese face with their exchange rate $2bn order in Iraq regime is that the currency they have chosen as a standard (the US dol- lar) has suffered extreme changes in value against the other major cur- LONDON: A dramatic fall in the euro has created an Thus, while “natural” hedging has long been popu- SEOUL: South Korea’s Hanwha Group won an order rencies of the world. Over the past few years the dollar has moved opportunity for European manufacturers to enjoy lar in some areas of business, “clearly with more worth around $2 billion to build additional infrastruc- either up or down by 50 percent against most other currencies around cheap production costs at the bases from which they volatility in FX markets it makes even more sense now ture in Bismayah, Iraq, a Hanwha spokesman said yes- terday. The construction will be carried out by Hanwha the world. One clear impact of this has been the big move in Chinese can supply world markets. But after months of sharp than ever,” said Robert Waldschmidt, a consumer Engineering & Construction Corp, which had already inflation over the past 10 years. Chinese inflation rose from zero in ear- shifts in foreign currencies, many of these companies goods equity analyst at Liberum. ly 2003 to almost 9 percent in 2008. At present inflation is falling sharply won an order to build some 100,000 homes for are simultaneously reworking strategy in the hope Bismayah by 2019. The spokesman declined additional and can easily turn to deflation. The peg against the US$ has been one that by the time of the next sudden tilt they will be ‘HOLY GRAIL’ the main reasons for falling inflation in China. comment because an official statement has not been operating in more diverse local markets around the British online fashion retailer Asos, which has been released yet. The biggest risk for the global economy is, if China decides to world. hurt by the strong pound, said this month it had decid- export its deflation. With global economy is so weak and domestic Sweden’s Volvo Cars is one such firm embracing ed to start sourcing garments for the euro zone in demand falling in China, it could easily decided to slash export prices to maintain its economic growth. A strong US$ is good for the US econo- regionalization. Last month it announced plans to euros and those for the United States in dollars. “Our Saudi poultry firm my but bad for any other currency that is pegged to the $, including the build a $500 million plant in the United States, look- ultimate aim here is to capture the maximum natural Chinese Yuan. Without any doubt there is an unspoken currency war ing past the dollar’s current strength to build in a hedge available to the business,” said Asos Chief Al-Watania plans supposedly taking place and China may join it very soon. China could longer-term protection. Operating Officer Nick Beighton. “Our panacea would easily devalue its currency by at least 10 percent, just by shifting its peg “We’re eliminating short-term currency fluctua- be to match currency receipts, currency outflows, hold stock market float against the US$. In my opinion there is a big possibility of this happen- tions, which are never good for long-term commit- product in that currency and price in that currency.” ing and this is where the risk of exporting deflation around the world ment to customers in different regions, and we’re cre- Sourcing locally has other benefits, especially in DUBAI: Saudi Arabia’s Al-Watania Poultry, one of the lies. I am sure the Chinese Central bank will accuse market forces of ating a natural hedge,” explained Volvo Chief emerging markets like Africa, where using local suppli- largest producers of chickens in the Middle East, has invit- forcing the Yuan down anyway. If investors sense that a Chinese Yuan Executive Hakan Samuelsson. ers can fuel economic development - and buying pow- ed banks to pitch for the financial adviser role on its stock devaluation is about to happen, a very large net hot-money outflows, “Natural hedges” occur when a business’s structure er - of the communities in which manufacturers oper- market flotation, three sources aware of the matter said can push the balance of payments into a deficit. The result could be an protects it from exchange rate volatility, such as when ate. yesterday. Bankers will make formal presentations to the company this month and Al Watania will decide on who unintended exchange rate depreciation overshoot, or a loss of foreign suppliers, factories and customers operate in the Food and drink makers including Nestle, SABMiller will advise it on its Saudi listing by the end of May, accord- exchange reserves. same currency. and Unilever have all worked to develop local suppli- Also, a Chinese currency depreciation could cause credit stress. ing to one of the sources. That kind of model is typical for makers of perish- ers, which also helps to secure supply and make prod- Al Watania couldn’t be reached for comment. The Chinese corporates have significantly increased their foreign currency able food and drinks that need production bases ucts more affordable. borrowing in recent years and a rise in investors’ perceived risk premi- sources spoke on condition of anonymity as the informa- close to their delivery addresses, but it’s less common Nestle Russia CEO Maurizio Patarnello cited local tion isn’t public. ums, which can lead to higher market interest rates and reduce the for manufacturers of more durable goods like auto- sourcing as part of the reason his business was only effectiveness of the Chinese Central Bank’s reductions in interest rates. I Based in the Qassim region in the centre of the king- mobiles, electronics or clothing that often prioritize minimally impacted by last year’s ban on imports of dom, Al Watania produces 1 million eggs and 575,000 believe the main reason for China’s economic growth slowdown is cheap labor and economies of scale - at least until many Western goods in retaliation for sanctions over weakening domestic demand, especially investment and weak real chickens per day which are sold in Saudi and six other recently. In recent months their model has been chal- the crisis in Ukraine. estate market. So, it is better for the Chinese government to speed up countries in the region, according to its website. Its chair- reforms and support domestic macro policies, not currency devalua- lenged by big moves in the euro and the dollar as the “Of course there are certain things that we will never man is Sulaiman bin Abdulaziz al-Rajhi, who helped found tion. In the short term a currency devaluation can help ease the risk of European Union and the United States’ economic out- be able to localise, like coffee or cocoa,” Patarnello told Al Rajhi Bank and served as its chairman until November deflation but a higher inflation from more expensive imports is not looks diverged sharply. Last October the US Federal reporters last month. “For the rest, there is a continuous 2014. He continues to be the largest individual sharehold- what the Chinese economy needs. This could easily have the unintend- Reserve announced it would halt the massive bond- effort to develop new suppliers.” Local sourcing may be er in the Islamic bank, through his endowment fund, with ed consequence of further weakening domestic demand. I am not sure buying program launched five years ago to prop up driven by operational concerns but its additional 14.79 percent, according to bourse data. how much truth we are being told about the state of the Chinese econ- its battered financial system, because an economic advantage of helping firms to circumvent foreign Food firms in the kingdom are attracting significant omy by the government. Economic growth numbers themselves are recovery was on track. But in January the European exchange rates makes company treasuries “the happy interest from investors, who see the sector as a way to tap notoriously prone to revision. Some estimates that Chinese real growth Central Bank kicked off its own program of so-called beneficiaries from a risk management perspective,” said into the growing wealth of a predominantly young local in domestic product dropped to 5 per cent last year. This is quite alarm- quantitative easing in an attempt to revitalize the SABMiller’s head of risk and funding, Philip Learoyd. population. ing for the world economy. If this is true, then this would represent a zone’s moribund economy. He added that SABMiller, the world’s second-largest Private equity firms TPG Capital and Abraaj have sharp slowdown from the trend of the past two decades. As a result the dollar and euro currencies sharply brewer, would keep looking for opportunities to offset agreed to buy a majority stake in the Kudu fast-food chain, At present China and the rest of Asia need all the help from exports diverged too, and in the last nine months the cost of exposure to currency volatility. The company already L Capital Asia bought a stake in gourmet date firm Bateel, to the US. The stronger US economy, and the stronger dollar and hedging against future volatility between them has also protects against swings in raw material costs with while Levant Capital and The Rohatyn Group have demand that it implies, should therefore be helpful. But what happens roughly tripled. While that means far more players in financial hedges and keeps its debt denominated in appointed Moelis to advise them on the sale of a control- if the US economy suddenly starts slowing down? Or if the Federal the $5 trillion a day market have been actively guard- currencies broadly proportionate to operations to ling stake in Al Raya Supermarkets. After a quiet start to 2015 when the kingdom’s market was volatile due to the Reserve is forced to raise interest rates quickly and sharply? The chances ing against swings in currencies, it also shows it is avoid swings between amounts received and owed. impact of lower oil prices, listing activity is picking up. of US economy slows down is a real threat. I strongly believe that the three times more expensive to do so. Over at Dutch electronics firm Philips, emerging risk of higher rates in the US is very remote. The impact of a slower eco- Middle East Paper Company and Saudi Company for Tools “When an exchange rate is particularly volatile it markets account for some 35 percent of revenue but and Hardware (SACO) are both selling shares to the public nomic growth in US on China and Asia will be quite dramatic. If this to can become too expensive to hedge financially,” said only very little production. As a result the company’s happen, investors should expect further currencies devaluation and in April. Brandon Leigh, chief financial officer of soap manu- profit margins were squeezed last year by adverse falling inflation. The Saudi market, by far the largest and most liquid in It seems to me that apart from the US, all other economies around facturer PZ Cussons. Cussons’ biggest market is swings in various emerging market currencies, most the Arab world, is still expected to open up to direct for- the world are busy in devaluing their currencies and exporting defla- Nigeria, where the naira has lost 18 percent of its val- notably the Russian ruble and the Argentinean peso. “A eign investment in a matter of weeks, with a senior source tion to each other. This has been happening for a while and if China ue over the past nine months as a result of a plunge in natural hedge is of course the holy grail because then in the kingdom telling Reuters last week rules governing faces the unthinkable choice then it will not hesitate to do the same. crude oil prices that hammered Africa’s biggest oil you’re less exposed,” said Philips Chief Executive Frans the market opening should be published by the end of producer. van Houten. —Reuters April. —Reuters

EXCHANGE RATES

Al-Muzaini Exchange Co. GOLD Saudi Riyals 80.460 US Dollars Mint 0.297150 0.301350 20 gram 244.350 Jordanian Dinar 424.925 10 gram 124.870 Asia ASIAN COUNTRIES Egyptian Pound 39.379 5 gram 63.120 Bangladesh Taka 0.003521 0.004121 Japanese Yen 2.527 Sri Lankan Rupees 2.254 Indian Rupees 4.840 Indian Rupees 4.853 Chinese Yuan 0.047091 0.050591 Hong Kong Dollar 0.036691 0.039441 Pakistani Rupees 2.949 UAE Exchange Centre WLL Pakistani Rupees 2.955 Srilankan Rupees 2.250 Bangladesh Taka 3.868 Indian Rupee 0.004583 0.004984 Nepali Rupees 3.028 Philippines Pesso 6.770 Indonesian Rupiah 0.000018 0.000024 Singapore Dollar 222.780 COUNTRY SELL DRAFT SELL CASH Cyprus pound 738.965 Japanese Yen 0.002446 0.002626 Japanese Yen 3.500 Hongkong Dollar 38.798 Australian Dollar 229.39 Kenyan Shilling 0.003334 0.003334 Syrian Pound 2.590 Bangladesh Taka 3.865 Canadian Dollar 242.57 Korean Won 0.000267 0.000282 Nepalese Rupees 4.000 Philippine Peso 6.779 Swiss Franc 316.56 Malaysian Ringgit 0.079347 0.085347 Malaysian Ringgit 83.660 Thai Baht 9.282 Euro 327.51 Nepalese Rupee 0.003046 0.003216 US Dollar 301.30 Chinese Yuan Renminbi 49.375 Pakistan Rupee 0.002823 0.003103 Sterling Pound 449.47 Thai Bhat 10.270 GCC COUNTRIES Philippine Peso 0.006731 0.007011 Japanese Yen 2.56 Turkish Lira 117.325 Saudi Riyal 80.232 Sierra Leone 0.000067 0.000073 Bangladesh Taka 3.868 Singapore Dollar 0.219705 0.225705 Qatari Riyal 82.658 Indian Rupee 4.820 South African Rand 0.019495 0.027995 Omani Riyal 781.680 Sri Lankan Rupee 2.251 Bahrain Exchange Company Sri Lankan Rupee 0.001881 0.002461 Bahraini Dinar 799.120 Nepali Rupee 3.015 UAE Dirham 81.926 Pakistani Rupee 2.954 Taiwan 0.009626 0.009806 COUNTRY SELL CASH SELLDRAFT Thai Baht 0.008947 0.0009497 UAE Dirhams 81.91 Europe ARAB COUNTRIES Bahraini Dinar 799.72 Egyptian Pound - Cash 41.150 Belgian Franc 0.007843 0.008843 Arab Egyptian Pound 39.38 British Pound 0.442575 0.451575 Egyptian Pound - Transfer 39.342 Jordanian Dinar 428.11 Bahraini Dinar 0.791283 0.799283 Czech Korune 0.003995 0.015995 Yemen Riyal/for 1000 1.404 Omani Riyal 781.40 Egyptian Pound 0.039057 0.042157 Danish Krone 0.040126 0.045126 Tunisian Dinar 156.230 Qatari Riyal 82.97 Iranian Riyal 0.000083 0.000085 Euro 0.324335 0.332335 Jordanian Dinar 424.670 Saudi Riyal 80.26 Iraqi Dinar 0.000190 0.000250 Norwegian Krone 0.034009 0.039209 Lebanese Lira/for 1000 2.018 Jordanian Dinar 0.420171 0.427671 Romanian Leu 0.086271 0.086271 Syrian Lira 2.144 Dollarco Exchange Co. Ltd Slovakia 0.008930 0.018930 Kuwaiti Dinar 1.000000 1.000000 Morocco Dirham 31.134 Swedish Krona 0.031234 0.036234 Lebanese Pound 0.000150 0.000250 Swiss Franc 0.308782 0.318982 Moroccan Dirhams 0.021525 0.045525 Rate for Transfer Selling Rate EUROPEAN & AMERICAN COUNTRIES Turkish Lira 0.116567 0.123567 Nigerian Naira 0.001236 0.001871 US Dollar Transfer 300.750 US Dollar 301.050 Omani Riyal 0.775154 0.780834 Canadian Dollar 243.535 Euro 331.430 Australasia Qatar Riyal 0.081897 0.083110 Sterling Pound 449.575 Sterling Pound 449.920 Australian Dollar 0.220818 0.232318 Saudi Riyal 0.079563 0.080263 Euro 328.685 Canadian dollar 241.660 New Zealand Dollar 0.221948 0.231448 Syrian Pound 0.001274 0.001494 Swiss Frank 286.250 Turkish lira 117.020 Tunisian Dinar 0.152507 0.160507 Bahrain Dinar 801.720 America Turkish Lira 0.116567 0.123567 Swiss Franc 316.580 UAE Dirhams 82.340 Canadian Dollar 0.235425 0.243925 UAE Dirhams 0.080902 0.082051 Australian Dollar 230.370 Qatari Riyals 83.515 US Dollar Buying 299.550 US Dollars 0.296850 0.301350 Yemeni Riyal 0.001359 0.001439 BUSINESS TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015

Fed’s Dudley: Poor jobs data reflects ‘temporary’ weakness

NEW YORK: The poor US labor market growth in the first quarter was “quite expecting the poor data could convince March, compared to an average of “The timing of normalization will be report for March is probably only part of weak,” he said in a speech in Newark, the Fed to postpone an interest rate 287,000 each month for the preceding data dependent and remains uncertain a temporary downturn in the economy, New Jersey, with gross domestic prod- hike that had been expected as early as 12 months. because the future evolution of the a senior Federal Reserve official said yes- uct expanding at an annual pace of just June. Dudley stressed that, after having economy cannot be fully anticipated,” he terday. Friday’s report showing only 1 percent. Dudley blamed in part the particular- kept the benchmark federal funds rate said, according to the text of his speech. about half the number of jobs expected, However, he said, “I view these down- ly harsh winter which analysis suggest- at zero since the end of 2008 to help “It will be important to monitor develop- as well as other weaker data, have been side surprises as reflecting temporary ed had real negative impact on eco- rebuild the recession-shocked economy, ments to determine whether the soft- a surprise, said William Dudley, the pres- factors to a significant degree.” It was nomic indicators from retail sales to the Fed needed to be sure that the ness in the March labor market report ident of the New York branch of the the first comment from a Fed official housing construction. The Labor economy was strong enough to handle evident on Friday foreshadows a more Federal Reserve. since the disappointing March jobs Department reported that the economy “normalizing” monetary policy with the substantial slowing in the labor market The data confirmed that economic report was released Friday, with analysts generated only 126,000 net new jobs in first rate hikes this year. than I currently anticipate.” — AFP

Al-Ahleia Insurance posts KD 8.5m in 2014 profits

KUWAIT: Al-Ahleia Insurance Company insurance activities hit KD 31.5 million last has posted KD 8.5 million ($28.3 million) in year, marking a rise of 4.3 percent com- profits in 2014, lower than KD 9.5 million pared to KD 30.2 million a year before. Net ($31.6 million) in 2013, chairman Sulaiman revenues from insurance hit KD 7.4 million, Al-Dalali has said. KD six million in 2013. The strict strategy adopted by the com- Meanwhile, the general assembly pany to curb surrounding risks has focused agreed today to offer shareholders a cash on the types of insurance activities and dividend of 32 percent of the nominal val- services offered to clients, and in the mean- ue of shares (32 fils per share). The assem- time providing utmost possible protection bly, convened with an attendance of 90.2 to the firm, Al-Dalali added yesterday dur- percent of shareholders, also endorsed all ing Al-Ahleia’s 51st general assembly. items on its 2014 agenda. Al-Ahleia strongly believes that corpo- Al-Ahleia Insurance Company was rate governance is a basic tool to improve founded in 1962, with paid capital of KD performance, reduce risks to their lowest 20 million, and is now a leading one in and protect shareholders’ rights and inter- Kuwait and the Arab World. The Company ests, he noted. was launched in response to the econom- During today’s meeting, Al-Dalali sub- ic growth of the State of Kuwait following mitted a report, substantiated with figures, the discovery of oil and the drive to pene- on the firm’s 2014 activities, focusing on trate the international oil market. It was insurance events. listed at the Kuwait Stock Exchange (KSE) According to the report, the company’s in 1984. —KUNA Fast-growing Asian aviation confronts safety challenges

HONG KONG: For Asia’s aviation industry, the ing to the International Workers walk past idle machinery as they strike at the Cuiheng Handbag Factory in Nanlang township in Zhongshan city in southern China’s growing pains have just begun. A year of dis- Air Transport Association. That proportion Guangdong Province. More than three decades after Beijing began allowing market reforms, China’s 168 million migrant workers are discover- asters, the disappearance of Flight 370 and is forecast to grow to 42 percent within the ing their labor rights through the spread of social media. — AP financial turbulence highlight the challenges next two decades as an extra 1.8 billion pas- confronting the world’s biggest air travel mar- sengers take to the skies. ket, where governments, regulators and air- Another big source of concern is lines are struggling to keep up after a decade Indonesia, where in December an AirAsia jet Strikes proliferate in China of astonishing growth. carrying 162 people plummeted into the sea A U.N. agency’s warning about airline safe- as it ran into stormy weather on its way from ty in Thailand, one of the world’s top tourist Surabaya to Singapore. destinations, is just the latest sign of ferment The disaster, which was the first ever fatal as working class awakens in the industry. The boom has been driven by plane crash for the popular budget operator, the region’s explosive economic growth as was one of five suffered by Asian carriers in a well as market liberalizations that have 12-month span. The flight itself was unautho- Labor activism slowly spreading among workers allowed dozens of new discount carriers to rized by Indonesian authorities, showing up flourish, turning the airline business on its laxness in its aviation oversight. NANLANG TOWNSHIP, China: Timid by nature, authorities is rising. In February, the ACFTU’s par- In the Pearl River Delta town of Nanlang, the head. The strains are also showing in recurring Flying is often the easiest travel option in Shi Jieying took a risk last month and joined fel- ty chief, Li Yufu, warned that hostile foreign handbag factory where Shi worked is one of pilot shortages and shortcomings in air traffic Indonesia, a sprawling archipelago of 17,000 low workers in a strike at her handbag factory, forces were using illegal rights groups and many lining the main drag that leads to a group control systems and airport infrastructure that islands that’s home to 250 million people. IATA one of a surging number of such labor protests activists to compete for the hearts of the work- of parks honoring the town’s most famous son, countries are scrambling to upgrade, especial- is worried that regulations and infrastructure across China. Riot police flooded into the factory ers, sabotaging the unity of the working class Sun Yat sen, and the 1911 revolution he led to ly in big Southeast Asian nations such as aren’t being updated fast enough to keep compound, broke up the strike and hauled away and of the state-sanctioned union. build a republic in China. Earlier this year, the Indonesia. pace with Indonesia’s expansion. The dozens of workers. Terrified by the violence, Shi Zhang Zhiru, who runs a small labor group 280 or so workers, mostly women, went on strike “We’re in uncharted waters,” said Desmond Southeast Asian country’s air travel market is was hospitalized with heart trouble, but with a helping workers defend their rights, has been to demand a still-unpaid but promised bonus of Ross, principal at DRA International aviation forecast to triple over the next 20 years to 270 feeble voice from her sickbed expressed a new- repeatedly harassed by police. He said the gov- about $150 for last year. They ended the strike consultants and former head of the Pacific million passengers, making it the world’s sixth found boldness. ernment will continue thwarting efforts at labor when factory management shelled out the mon- Aviation Safety Office, which oversees airline biggest. “I am very concerned about safety in “We deserve fair compensation,” said Shi, 41, organizations because it considers them “mak- ey. But in early March, the bosses announced safety for South Pacific islands. “I don’t think Indonesia,” IATA director general and former who makes $4,700 a year at Cuiheng Handbag ing trouble.” fewer overtime hours and fewer workdays due the world has seen this sort of growth before.” Cathay Pacific Airways CEO Tony Tyler said in a Factory in Nanlang, in southern China. Only to the global economic slump, and yanked a $5 A third of airplane accidents in the Asia- speech to Indonesian aviation officials in recently, she had learned she had the right to But he remained optimistic. bonus given to every female worker on March 8, Pacific region from 2008 to 2012 “involved Jakarta last month. He noted the country has social security funding and a housing allowance “The social development and the increasing International Women’s Day. deficiencies in regulatory oversight,” the had at least one crash in which a plane has - two of the issues at stake in the strike. awareness of workers about their need to pro- The workers went on strike again, demanding International Civil Aviation Organization said been written off every year since 2010. “I didn’t think of it as protesting, just defend- tect their rights will push the society forward,” he back payments into social security funds, hous- in a report this year. Another 27 percent ing our rights,” she said. More than three said. In March, workers returning from the ing allowances and - believing the factory was involved “deficiencies in safety management.” Upgrade decades after Beijing began allowing market Chinese New Year break to the thousands of fac- on its last legs - the right to a severance package Meanwhile, the agency’s recent audit of “There is a safety problem here,” he said. reforms, China’s 168 million migrant workers are tories in the Pearl River delta region near Hong if they quit. Thailand has produced disquieting revelations “It’s not going to solve itself.” Tyler pointed out discovering their labor rights through the spread Kong staged three dozen strikes at companies This time, the management did not budge. about what lies below the surface of a country that the country needs to upgrade its air traf- of social media. They are on the forefront of a such as Stella Footwear, Meidi Electronics and Inside the town’s government building, a that has marketed itself to the world as a safe fic management system to cope with the ris- labor protest movement that is posing a grow- Hisense Electronics. Japanese man who identified himself as the fac- and welcoming destination. The agency ing number of aircraft in the skies and future ing and awkward problem for the ruling Some fight for mandated severance pay, tory’s former general manager but declined to informed governments in March of “significant increases. Airlines have more than 800 new Communist Party, wary of any grassroots some for back social security payments and give his name said through an interpreter that safety concerns,” prompting several Asian aircraft on order. activism that can threaten its grip on power. some for equal pay for out-of-town workers who the company had no choice but to cut hours nations to step up inspections of Thai airlines Despite the high profile of airline disasters “The party has to think twice before it sup- typically earn less than local city residents. All of when it failed to receive enough orders. He said or block them from launching new flights and in 2014, stemming in part from the double presses the labor movement because it still these actions have been on factory grounds workers kept making new demands, and that modifying schedules. Malaysia Airlines tragedies, the airline industry claims to be a party for the working class,” said because workers have grown impatient with the factory had to call in police after surveillance The leader of Thailand’s military govern- asserts it was a relatively safe year for flying. Wang Jiangsong, a Beijing-based labor scholar. government mediation rooms or courts. “In cameras showed workers engaged in sabotage. ment, which ousted its civilian predecessor in The total of 12 fatal accidents was below Feeling exploited by businesses and aban- many cases, lawsuits cannot ensure that workers’ A Nanlang government statement said it dis- a coup last year, blamed years of neglect for the five-year average of 19 and so called “hull doned by the government, workers are organiz- rights are protected, so the workers now are patched a team March 24 to persuade the work- allowing problems to accumulate to a critical losses,” the write-off of airplanes from acci- ing strikes and labor protests at a rate that has turning to collective negotiations or even organ- ers to return to work, but that some of them mass. He said the civil aviation department dents fatal or nonfatal, was its lowest ever. doubled each of the past four years to more izing into a group to gain more, and to save were flattening tires, destroying a surveillance has only 12 inspectors, a figure unchanged for From another perspective, however, it was a than 1,300 last year, up from just 185 in 2011, time,” Duan said. camera, displaying banners and preventing oth- years despite huge growth in tourism. The dic- particularly tragic year. Including Flight 17 said Hong Kong-based China Labor Bulletin, While many labor activists have been er workers from returning to the workplace. Four tator has vowed to use his authoritarian pow- shot down over Ukraine which isn’t included which gathers information from China’s social harassed and detained, few have been convict- workers were detained. Workers said they were ers to overhaul aviation, but it’s unclear in the industry’s accident tally, 939 people media. ed. In the only known case of workers involved holding a peaceful rally when police attacked whether sweeping changes can be imple- were killed in planes last year compared with “What we are seeing is the forming of China’s in organized actions being criminally punished them. “They were pulling our hair, smashing cell mented fast enough to avoid a damaging 210 the previous year. But what experts say is labor movement in a real sense,” said Duan Yi, in recent years, Meng Han and 11 other security phones so we could not take photos,” said a downgrade of Thailand’s safety rating. most relevant is whether safety will be com- the country’s leading labor rights lawyer. That’s guards at a state hospital in Guangzhou were worker who gave only her family name, Cao. She Ross said Thailand’s problems are not promised as air travel expands relentlessly in a prompted crackdowns by authorities, and facto- convicted in April 2014 of gathering crowds to was later taken to a police station, where she unique and stem from the “superfast expan- region where countries range from advanced ry bosses have fired strike organizers. Although disrupt social order after they staged a strike to said she was handcuffed, deprived of sleep and sion that’s been taking place over the last 10 to among the world’s poorest with huge dif- authorities have long ignored labor law viola- demand equal pay and equal social security for food, and was lectured on her wrong behavior years.” Aside from hurting tourism, the ICAO ferences in capacity to manage the safety of tions by companies, activists say authorities now local and out-of-town workers. before being freed the next morning.—AP warning could also prompt insurance compa- their air space. “I think we’re at a turning point dispatch police - and dogs, in at least one case - nies to raise their rates for airlines operating in where we either maintain this relatively good to factories to restore order or even restart pro- Thailand. level of safety” in Asia “or it declines,” said Ross. duction. They have also detained leading Passenger numbers in Asia-Pacific have Discount carriers account for about 60 percent activists and harassed organizations that help Cyprus ends capital controls risen by a third over the past five years to 1.1 of Asia’s passenger capacity, up from nearly workers. China’s labor law, which went into billion, and the region now accounts for 33 nothing a decade ago, according to CAPA- effect in 1995, stipulates the right to a decent two years after bailout percent of global air passenger traffic, accord- Center For Aviation. —AP wage, rest periods, no excessive overtime and the right of group negotiation. Workers are allowed to strike, but only under NICOSIA: Cyprus yesterday signalled a return The authorities closed the banks for two the government-controlled All China Federation to financial normality in scrapping capital con- weeks in March 2013 as they finalised a 10-bil- of Trade Unions - which critics say is essentially trols two years after they were imposed to halt lion-euro bailout by the European Union and an arm of the government that has failed to a banking meltdown, the finance ministry International Monetary Fund. When the banks stand up for workers. Workers who organize on said. reopened, they imposed a raft of measures on their own can be arrested, not for striking but on President Nicos Anastasiades said last week domestic and international capital move- charges such as disrupting traffic, business or the last of the draconian measures-imposed to ments. social order. In Shenzhen, worker representative avoid a run on local banks-would be lifted yes- In return for international aid, the govern- Wu Guijun was charged with gathering crowds terday, and the finance ministry confirmed ment in March 2013 agreed to wind up its sec- to disrupt traffic, but was released with no con- that this has now happened. Business leaders ond largest bank, Laiki, and impose losses on viction after a year in detention. called the abolition of controls of “significant depositors in its under-capitalised largest Migrant factory workers are perhaps the van- importance” to the economy in allowing the lender, Bank of Cyprus. guard of this movement, but labor activism is free flow of capital. They suffered a 47.5 percent “bail-in” as part slowly spreading among a working class that, all Business groups said the move brought of the bailout package. In return for the res- told, forms more than half of China’s 1.4 billion. “normality to the banking system and helped cue, the government adopted swinging aus- “The working class has not yet fully woken attract investment from overseas”. Now that terity measures and radically restructured the up,” said Qi Jianguang, 27, who was sacked from external controls have been lifted, both busi- bloated banking sector. All domestic capital his job at a golfing equipment company in nesses and individuals will be allowed to restrictions were lifted last May. Anastasiades Shenzhen for leading a strike last summer. Lack transfer money abroad with no restriction. on Friday said ending capital controls “rein- of effective organization is another challenge. Cyprus was the only euro-zone member to forces the positive outlook for raising invest- But he said that a common appeal for equitable have imposed such curbs. ment under conditions of full trust and confi- and dignified treatment is serving to unite the Under the restrictions, residents were dence”. “It strengthens the ability of the banks laboring classes. allowed to transfer up to 20,000 euros to raise capital and safely finance the econo- ($21,700) abroad each month, and travellers my,” he added. After a three-year recession, BANGKOK: A Thai Airways passenger plane takes off over a damaged Thai Airways Suspicion could take up to 10,000 euros with them per Cyprus expects to return to marginal growth Airbus A330-300 that skidded off the runway while landing at Suvarnabhumi journey. this year. —AFP International Airport in Bangkok, Thailand.— AP Deep suspicion of labor activism among BUSINESS TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 Japan stocks dip, yen rises in Asia

HONG KONG: Tokyo shares ended lower yes- data showed US employers last month added to more than a weather-related slowdown and deliveries in the first quarter. Qualcomm deal with the West has still to be finalised, terday while the yen climbed against the dollar the fewest jobs in more than a year. The rise of could indicate a loss of momentum in the US shares fell 2.4 percent after a teardown of meaning sanctions will stay in place for following a worse than expected US jobs report 126,000 jobs was well below economists’ expec- economy. the Galaxy S6 showed Samsung used more now. seen as making an early US rate rise more tations for a gain of 245,000. The jobs data was Separate readings on the US services sector, of its own chips in its new smartphone, in a US benchmark West Texas Intermediate unlikely. Oil prices rose on expectations that released on Good Friday, when Wall Street was which accounts for roughly two-thirds of the blow to Qualcomm. Herbalife shares fell was up $1.21 cents at $50.35 while Brent any new exports from Iran would not likely closed. Major European markets were closed country’s economic activity, are due shortly 6.2 percent after CNBC said US law added $1.17 to $56.12. Oil was also sup- come on the market for some time, despite the from Friday through Monday for the Easter holi- after the opening bell. Markit’s gauge is expect- enforcement agencies contacted several ported by news that major producer Saudi initial nuclear agreement. With several major day, and were set to reopen today. The weak ed at 9:45 am EDT (1345 GMT) while the top Herbalife members. 500.com fell 8.5 Arabia raised prices for all May sales to markets shut for public holidays and Wall Street data eased some concerns that the U.S. dollar Institute for Supply Management’s is due 15 percent after it announced it will suspend Asia, saying demand was improving. closed Friday, trading was thin with few cata- would continue to strengthen and further pres- minutes later. online lottery sales in China. However, Sanjeev Gupta, who heads lysts to spur business. sure earnings of companies with international US-listed shares of Amsterdam-based Tokyo fell 0.19 percent, or 37.10 points, the Asia-Pacific Oil and Gas practice at pro- exposure. It also pushed expectations of a rate Uniqure jumped 45 percent in premarket trad- to 19,397.98 and Seoul was flat, edging up fessional services firm EY, said prices are US futures fall hike from the Federal Reserve further down the ing after a deal with Bristol-Myers Squibb to 1.01 points to close at 2,046.43. Shanghai, likely to resume their downtrend as traders US stock index futures fell in low volume yes- road. develop gene therapies for cardiovascular dis- Hong Kong, Bangkok, Taipei, Sydney and digest the impact of the agreement terday, putting Wall Street on track for a lower However, investors are concerned that a eases. Wellington were closed. between Iran and the US-led western pow- open on the first trading session since Friday’s patch of soft economic data, including jobs, fac- Tesla Motors added 3.8 percent in premarket The US Labor Department’s monthly ers. “We anticipate stronger negative reac- surprisingly weak jobs data. Labor Department tory activity and consumer spending, may point trading after it reported a 55 percent increase in non-farm payrolls report on Friday showed tions to the benchmark prices this week,” just 126,000 new jobs were created in Gupta said. March, half of what was expected and the weakest growth since December 2013. In other markets: The figures hinted at a possible slow- • Manila closed 0.76 percent, or 60.65 down in the world’s top economy and will points, higher at 8,053.74. Ayala Corp. was make it highly unlikely the Federal Reserve up 0.13 percent at 800 pesos, Metrobank will raise interest rates earlier than gained 0.81 percent to 99.80 pesos and September. Analysts put the weak figures Universal Robina added 1.77 percent to down to the impact of a strong dollar, cold 230 pesos. weather and falling oil prices. The news • Mumbai rose 0.86 percent, or 244.32 weighed on the dollar, which has been ral- points, to end at 28,504.46 points. Sun lying in recent weeks on expectations the Pharmaceuticals Industries rose 8.34 per- Fed would increase rates by the summer. cent to 1,168.50 rupees, while Tata Steel The dollar fell to 119.03 yen Monday fell 1.84 percent to 318.05 rupees. from 119.62 yen in Tokyo on Friday, while • Jakarta ended up 0.43 percent, or the euro climbed to $1.0971 from $1.0879. 23.63 points, at 5,480.03. Automotive com- The single currency was at 130.57 yen from pany Astra International gained 1.55 per- 130.16 yen. cent to 8,200 rupiah while construction A pick-up in the yen pushed shares in firm PT Pembangunan Perumahan slipped Japanese exporters down as it makes their 1.48 percent to 3,650 rupiah. goods more expensive abroad. “We should • Kuala Lumpur gained 8.42 points, or see a correction in Japanese stocks as the 0.46 percent, to close at 1,842.94. Telekom stronger yen pushes down exporters,” Shoji Malaysia added 2.13 percent to 7.67 ring- Hirakawa, chief equity strategist at Okasan git and Tenaga Nasional rose 0.14 percent Securities Co. in Tokyo, told Bloomberg to 14.32, while AMMB Holdings dipped News. 0.16 percent to 6.40 ringgit. “The US economy has hit a soft patch • Singapore fell 0.02 percent, or 0.84 due to the stronger dollar and weaker oil. points, to 3,452.91. United Overseas Bank First-quarter earnings and gross domestic rose 0.61 percent to Sg$23.22 while product probably won’t be good.” Singapore Telecom gained 0.68 percent to Oil prices rose because Tehran’s nuclear Sg$4.42. — Agencies Oil up more than $1 after Saudi price hike

LONDON: Oil futures climbed more than closed for the start of the Easter holiday. $1 a barrel yesterday, after Saudi Arabia Despite the sanctions on Iran, China’s raised its prices for crude sales to Asia for imports from the OPEC producer are set to the second month running, signaling rise from August as a Chinese state trader improved demand in the region. has signed a deal with the National Iranian International benchmark Brent Oil Company to buy more condensate. The regained ground after tumbling as much world’s top exporter Saudi Arabia kept out- as 5 percent on Thursday, when a prelimi- put steady and cut its official selling prices nary nuclear deal was finally reached (OSPs) sharply late last year in a fight for between world powers and Iran. More market share during a global supply glut. Iranian oil could enter global markets if Its ability to raise prices for April and May that is followed by a comprehensive deal suggests its strategy is working, although by June. competition has kept its flagship Arab Light But expectations of an immediate at a discount to Oman/Dubai quotes, ana- increase in supply have been tempered as lysts said. analysts warned a ramp-up in exports “There is still competition for the Asia could take months and would likely not market even though it is also a sign that happen before 2016. some of the production elsewhere is less “While clearly a bearish headline, a able to compete in the market right now,” final deal and full lifting of sanctions still said Shunling Yap, a senior oil and gas ana- faces a number of obstacles,” Morgan lyst at BMI Research. Concerns over fighting Stanley analysts said in a note. “Even if a in Yemen also supported prices, as fighting final deal is reached, we do not expect between a Saudi-backed coalition and any physical market impact before 2016,” Shiite Houthi forces continued in the port the analysts said. city of Aden, which overlooks a major ship- Brent crude for May delivery touched a ping lane between Europe and the Arab high of $56.90 a barrel and was up $1.50 Gulf. On the supply front, the number of from Thursday at $56.45 by 0948 GMT. US rigs drilling for oil in the United States crude for May delivery was $1.49 higher at declined by 11 last week to 802, the small- $50.63 a barrel, after earlier touching $50.97. est drop since December, a weekly survey There was no settlement in either Brent or by oil service firm Baker Hughes showed on US crude futures on Friday as markets were Thursday. — Reuters Gold extends gains after US jobs data

SINGAPORE: Gold gained for a second Bank in Tokyo. Spot gold was up 0.4 percent straight session to trade near a three-week at $1,215.50 an ounce by 0215 GMT. Bullion high yesterday after US jobs rose at the slow- hit a session high of $1,218.45, close to a est pace in more than a year, fuelling expec- three-week peak of $1,219.40 reached on tations the Federal Reserve could postpone March 26. an anticipated rate increase. US gold for June delivery climbed 1.3 per- US nonfarm payrolls increased 126,000 in cent to $1,215.90 an ounce. A delay in the March, less than half February’s pace and the first US rate increase since 2006 would bur- smallest gain since December 2013, the nish gold’s draw as a safe-haven asset. The Labor Department said on Friday. That end- greenback could take a hit as investors push ed 12 straight months of job gains above back rate hike bets, making dollar-denomi- 200,000 - the longest streak since 1994. That nated gold cheaper for holders of other cur- could prod the US central bank to delay a rencies. rate increase that analysts had expected to Whether gold makes a renewed push for come in June or September amid signals $1,300 - a level it last touched in October - from the Fed it was ready to tighten mone- would depend on the dollar’s movement, tary policy in view of a strengthening labor said Ikemizu. The Fed may postpone its rate market. hike after Friday’s employment report, said “I think people are feeling comfortable Mizuho Bank. “What’s more, it implies that being long gold after the payrolls data,” said the pace of tightening may be more gradual,” Yuichi Ikemizu, branch manager at Standard the bank said in a note. — Reuters Emaar Egypt unit signals chairman role change DUBAI: Emaar Misr, the Egyptian unit of Egyptian Exchange. It would also consider Dubai developer Emaar Properties, said yes- allowing “non-executive board members to terday investors would vote later this month work in non-executive roles on the boards of on whether to amend chairman Mohamed any other companies, including those whose Alabbar’s position on the board. business activities are similar to the company.” There has been increased speculation that When asked for further clarity on what this Alabbar, who founded and has run Emaar meant, an Emaar Properties spokeswoman Properties since its inception in 1997, may said: “In order to create a proper corporate leave due to his other commitments in the governance structure for the company, cer- real estate sector. This includes as a founding tain amendments have been made to posi- member of Capital City Partners, a developer tions at the board level.” These were in light of which was awarded a $45 billion contract to Emaar Misr’s upcoming stock market flota- build Egypt’s new administrative city. tion, for which it filed a formal listing request Emaar Misr’s annual shareholder meeting with the regulator in February, she added. on April 20 would “discuss his membership Emaar Properties on March 19 categorically (as) chairman of the board of directors and denied in a bourse filing that Alabbar intend- managing director representing Emaar ed to leave his position as chairman of the Properties,” according to a statement on the group. — Reuters BUSINESS TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015

Need to address shortfalls in CMA law

AL-SHALL ECONOMIC REPORT

KUWAIT: We have no idea when bad allocations in the budget were estimat- first quarter, after its deduction, Performance of most sample markets coming second in the bottom of the list It remains very difficult to forecast the luck of Capital Markets Authority’s ed at about KD 23.212 billion and total becomes 1.3 percent. came negative and opposite to by -4.7 percent losses since the year the course of performance even for one will come to an end. Though Kuwait pre- revenues were estimated at about KD The official market index, -a price February’s performance which reflects beginning. month, i.e. for April. The political events ceded others in the region in founding 20.069 billion with KD 18.806 billion, or index- dropped by 3.9 percent noting the markets sensitivity to political The four regional markets excelled are dominant in their impact and read- shareholding companies and a stock 93.7 percent of total revenues, as oil rev- that the index takes into account the events and the oil market develop- in their losses except for the Bahraini ing its possible improvements is market, it was late in founding the enues. Oil revenues were estimated cash distributions implicitly. Likewise, ments. The outcome was 10 out of the market whose losses came slightly less beyond any one’s capability. Besides, Capital Markets Authority. Although its based on the following principles: oil the weighted market index dropped by 14 sample markets were losers the than those of Dow Jones. The Saudi the surplus pressure of the supply side draft law and commencement of its production quota by 2.7 million barrels 2.7 percent which occurred in March highest was for the regional markets, 6 market lost -5.7 percent, Muscat lost - and the result of lifting sanctions on activity took 5 years, it was born with per day, an estimated price by $75 per mainly due to disturbed local political markets shifted to the negative zone 4.9 percent, Abu Dhabi lost -4.7 percent Iran are affecting the performance of oil deformity. Five more years followed and barrel and 286fils exchange rate per one conditions partially -two ministers’ res- compared with their indexes in the end and the Bahrain lost -1.7 percent. Five prices and production. Therefore, it is were full of bumps. Initially, two teams US dollar and deduction of production ignations- and mainly due to the region- of December 2014 after all markets out of the 7 Gulf markets dropped to expected to have difference in perform- were assigned to prepare its philosophy costs estimated at KD 2483 million. al disturbed political conditions were positive in the end of February the negative zone compared with their ance of the sample markets in favor of and laws not only by the same govern- Non-oil revenues were estimated by KD because of the Yemen war coupled with 2015. The impact on the regional mar- performance in the end of last year. The the mature and emerging markets, i.e. ment, but also by the same minister. 1.263 billion. Therefore, the hypothetical continues weak oil market, and contin- kets indexes more than others is logical. Saudi and Bahraini markets remained the consumers and the remote from the When the two teams differed and when budget deficit scored KD 3.143 billion ued disturbance in Iraq. Oil prices dropped in March and did not gainers in the first quarter of the year disturbed area unless political detente writing its philosophy and law was without deducting the 25 percent of Comparing the market’s perform- rise slightly as we expected. But most of together with 6 other markets of the occurs like the inclination towards delayed, all relevant proposals (five) total revenues for the future genera- ance during the first quarter of 2015, the negative impact resulted from the sample. political solutions. with fourth quarter of 2014, we notice a participation of most regional countries Four of the mature and emerging drop in the market liquidity or value of in the Operation Decisive Storm against markets reinforced their gains in March. The Weekly Performance of KSE traded shares which scored KD 1.329 Yemen that started with air strikes. The biggest gainer was the Chinese The performance of Kuwait Stock billion versus KD 1.453 billion in the Sometime is needed to understand market which added 13.2 percent in Exchange (KSE) for the last week was fourth quarter of 2014. Consequently, dimensions and repercussions. one month then the German market mixed, where the indices of the trade average daily trading value declined by The biggest loser in March was which added 5 percent then the value, the trade volume, and number of 7 percent to KD 22.2 million compared Dubai market whose index lost -9.1 per- Japanese by adding 2.2 percent, all of transactions show a decrease, while the with KD 23.8 million in the fourth quar- cent in one month. This was enough to which benefited from the drop of oil general index shows an increase. AlShall ter of last year and by 11.6 percent drop it down to the bottom of the list prices. Four markets achieved 2-digit Index (value index) closed at 421.3 compared with the daily average value sustaining the highest losses since the gains. -10 percent or more- since the points at the closing of last Thursday, for 2014. The banking sector led the beginning of the year by -6.9 percent. year beginning. The German took the showing an increase of about 0.6 points sectors in liquidity and captured KD The second major loser in March was lead by 22 percent gains, the French by or about 0.1 percent compared with its 312.4 million, or by 23.5 percent, of the weighted index of the Kuwaiti mar- 17.8 percent gain, the Chinese by 15.9 level last week, while it’s a decrease by total trading value, the telecommunica- ket which lost -6.7 percent and the third percent gains and the Japanese by 10.1 22.7 points or about 5.1 percent com- tions sector came second by 21.8 per- was the Qatari market by -5.9 percent percent gains. pared with the end of 2014. cent, then the financial services by 20.5 were gathered and the law was pre- tions’ reserve. But what matter is the percent and then the real estate sector pared as in the ‘Cut and Paste’ method. actual result in the final account. by 15 percent. Then the government appointed five Preliminary data indicate a notice- Total volume of traded shares scored commissioners. No sooner had they able drop in collected total revenues 12.7 billion shares, with daily average started their work than three of them below their counterpart value in the last by 211.1 million shares, vis-a-vis 12.3 were dismissed. Their dispute took three fiscal year mainly due to the drop in oil billion shares, with a daily average by years in courts during which it replaced prices. Average price of the Kuwaiti oil 201.9 million shares in the fourth quar- them with another three. Its commis- for the FY 2014/2015 scored about $ ter of 2014, a rise by 2.8 percent for the sioners then disagreed publicly with the 81.3 per barrel, which is $6.3 per barrel, total volume of traded shares and 4.5 Kuwait Chamber of Commerce and 8.4 percent, higher than the hypotheti- percent for the average volume of trad- Industry over the governance code. This cal price in the budget. It is however less ed shares. The daily average number of weakened its position considerably and by about $22.2 per barrel, or -21.4 per- deals in this quarter was 5,133 deals forced one of the commissioners to cent, than the average Kuwaiti oil price versus 5,084 deals in the fourth quarter resign. A battle to amend its law, with for FY 2013/2014 which was $103.5 per of 2014. Total number of transactions in some right but with much wrong, fol- barrel. this quarter scored 308 thousand deals lowed. Its law was temporarily amended According to monthly follow up versus 310.1 thousand deals in the to reduce the mandate of its commis- report of the State’s accounts February fourth quarter of 2014. If we compare sioners by one year. This led to the ter- 2015 -issued by the Ministry of Finance- the market’s performance during the mination of all the appointed commis- Kuwait received actual oil revenues until first quarter of 2015 with the first quar- sioners even without completing one the end of February -11 months- ter of 2014, we find that value of traded term. The Commissioners Board then amounting to KD 21.194 billion vis-a- shares retreated by 29 percent, or by KD failed once again when it engaged with vis KD 26.987 billion in the first 11 543 million, and scored KD 1.329 billion, the Governor of the Central Bank, the months of last FY 2013/2014. Therefore, as we mentioned, versus KD 1.872 bil- parallel oversight entity, over a meritless total oil revenues for the entire fiscal lion in the first quarter of 2014. Daily case. year are estimated at KD 22 billion, average trading value declined by 31.4 In our report we shall not comment which is higher by KD 3.2 billion than percent. Total volume of traded shares on the implication of the amendments the budget estimate. Adding KD 2.2 bil- dropped by 4.660 billion shares versus to CMA law which is supposed to be lion as non-oil revenues, total budget 17.323 billion shares in the first quarter very stringent in its penalties in a coun- revenues will score KD 24.2 billion. of 2014 and the daily average dropped try which witnessed the biggest finan- Comparing this figure with the expendi- by 29.3 percent when compared with cial crisis in the world measured by the tures allocations amounting to KD 23.2 the first quarter of the last year. Also the scale of its economy. The latest govern- billion, and assuming saving by 10 per- daily average of deals dropped by 13.6 ment’s bias against its amendments in a cent as in the last fiscal year, actual percent compared with the same peri- country whose government’s main goal expenditures would score KD 20.9 bil- od of 2014. is to continue and to be stable, regard- lion. Therefore, the result will be a hypo- Market capitalization of all listed less of the costs, makes any position no thetical surplus in FY 2014/2015 budget companies -191 companies- (after more than a lost battle. We add to this by KD 3 billion. It might go to KD 5 bil- delisting the Union Real Estate Co), in that the goal of transforming the coun- lion if the saving level in expenditures is the end of March 2015, scored about try into a financial and trade hub is no realized (estimated by the Minister of KD 28.6 billion. When comparing its val- more than mirage. The two main pillars Finance at KD 19 billion). It will be the ue between end of March 2015 and the of founding this center are the inde- 16th fiscal year in a row with surplus. end of December 2014 for 191 common pendence and competence of the The forthcoming fiscal year will be companies, we note it dropped by KD Central Bank and the CMA both of tough and perhaps the first when the 752.4 million from KD 29.3 billion on which have become a target for budget will realize deficit for the first 31/12/2014 to KD 28.6 billion, ie it deprived powers and struggle for jobs time in 16 years unless the oil prices dropped by 2.6 percent. Value of traded and positions. Therefore, we do not slightly improved and the expenditures shares during the quarter scored 4.7 anticipate any positive outcome for the pressed under estimated. percent of the market’s capitalization discussion this week of the second value, a turnover rate by 18.8 percent - deliberation about the CMA law amend- KSE performance 2015 Q1 calculated on annual basis-. Trading val- ments. But, as always, we hope we are AlShall index dropped at the end of ue as a ratio of the market capitalization wrong. A government which fails, after a the first quarter by 20.9 points, or by 4.7 scored 20.8 percent in 2014. decade, to found a regulatory and over- percent, compared with the end of It is must be noted that the number sight authority over capital markets will 2014. The highest index reading during of gainer companies with increased val- undoubtedly be unable to transform the quarter was at 462.1 points on ue compared with the last trading date Kuwait to a competitive financial center 24/02/2015 and the lowest was at 420.7 in 2014 scored 60 companies and the during the remaining part of the current points on 26/03/2015. Calculating the number of losers was 119 companies. century. resultant of the domestic stock 12 companies’ values did not change. exchange performance should take into Excluding the companies which either Oil and public finance consideration the actual cash distribu- increased or decreased their capital, The fiscal year 2014/2015 ended last tion percentage in the amount of 3.4 Kuwait Syrian Holding Co recorded the Tuesday. As a reminder, expenditures percent. Therefore, the drop during the highest rise in value by 86.2 percent. Human Soft Holding Co came second by a rise of 68.8 percent. Al-Madar Finance and Investment Co recorded the highest loss in its value, a drop by - 47 percent, and then the Kuwait Real Estate Holding Co by -36.3 percent loss of its value. 9 out of 12 sectors loser, including the financial services sector achieved the biggest loss by -6.3 per- cent, the consumer services sector which achieved the highest rise by 5 percent. The following graph illustrates the distribution of market value according to sectors as of the end of March 2015.

Comparative Performance for Selected Stock Markets By the end of March 2015, the first quarter of the current year ended. BUSINESS TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015

NBK REPORT ON INTERNATIONAL MARKETS flydubai boosts frequency on US dollar buoyant Africa routes for summer amid lower oil prices Additional flights to Alexandria, Bujumbura, Juba and Zanzibar percent by most, and a bit higher by the KUWAIT: While markets and volatility were IMF. Recently, forecasters are tinkering with primarily driven by collapsing oil prices in the major economies’ forecasts with little KUWAIT: Dubai-based flydubai yesterday late 2014, the baton shifted this year to the change to the big picture. So, “sideways” it announced that it is increasing the frequency of US dollar. The US dollar, which rose slowly is for Japan where the BOJ may have to do flights on some of its routes in Africa for the most of last year, jumped higher in a sud- more QE. A tick or two higher for euro- summer schedule. With the additional flights, den burst during the past month or two. zone GDP. A tad lower for the US, as recent flydubai will operate a total of 78 flights a week The strong dollar, which had contributed weakness in retail sales and manufacturing to 12 points in East and North Africa. to lower oil prices, is currently up 25 per- was further exacerbated by a weak March From 29 March, flydubai will increase its service cent against the euro’s high of 1.40 in jobs report; the economy added 126 thou- from five flights a week to daily to the capital of 2014, 15 percent of which came in a mat- sand new jobs and unemployment stayed South Sudan, Juba and three flights a week ter of short weeks (it corrected slightly at 5.5 percent. instead of two to Bujumbura, Burundi. Zanzibar, since). The long awaited dollar rise finally Though some of the weakness in Q1 which has seen excellent demand since the came together when the ECB announced relates to the cold weather and a major launch of the route in October 2014, will be served QE (quantitative easing) and acted upon it ports strike, it does seem that the stronger with four flights a week instead of two. While this March. Of course, fundamentals, both dollar and a cautious consumer are affect- Alexandria in Egypt will also see flydubai increase economic and political, had been in the ing growth. The Fed has cited the strong its flights from two to three a day from June 2015. dollar’s favor for quite some time but the dollar as an area of focus if not concern. “We are delighted to offer more flights to tight-compared-to-the-Fed ECB kept slow- Africa,” commented Ghaith Al- Ghaith, Chief ing or postponing any significant dollar Interest rate scenario Executive Officer of flydubai. “We were the first rally, until recently. In the above picture, the Fed is expect- UAE carrier to serve Bujumbura, Juba and The ECB finally started its QE purchases ed to start raising interest rates very slowly Zanzibar. We have seen strong demand for travel in March, at euro 60 billion per month for and gradually in September or even later across our network in Africa, and we look for- the upcoming 18 months or for a potential this year. The patience, or wait, is afforded ward to welcoming more passengers on board total of euro 1.1 trillion. With the Greece sit- the Fed thanks to the low inflation/defla- our flights.” In line with growing trade and Sreedharan, Senior Vice President Commercial 23 new routes launched in 2014. uation off the headlines for now, and some- tion environment in the US (in particular tourism ties between the UAE and East and (GCC, Subcontinent and Africa). * Opened up 57 new routes that did not pre- what better-than-expected data recently, wages) and by the strong dollar that adds North Africa, flydubai launched six routes to the Commencing in September 2009, Djibouti viously have direct air links to Dubai or were not the euro-zone is expected to be already to deflationary pressure and hurts US region in 2014, doubling its network, and was flydubai’s first destination in Africa. The air- served by a UAE national carrier from Dubai. benefiting from lower oil prices, and is exports and growth, especially in a fragile becoming the third biggest carrier of its catego- line today has a network of 12 points in the mar- * Built up a fleet of more than 45 new aircraft expected to get further mileage from the world context. ry there and the first to offer a Business Class ket including Addis Ababa, Dar es Salaam, and will take delivery of more than 100 aircraft much weaker euro, in the form of faster Like last year, the big risk, besides a slow- option to Dubai from destinations like Juba. Entebbe, Khartoum, Kigali and Port Sudan. by the end of 2023, all of which will be Boeing export and GDP growth. Real GDP growth er than expected US (say sub-2.0 percent “Whether travelling for leisure or business Dubai-based flydubai strives to remove barri- 737-800s. is projected in the 1-1.5 percent range this growth), is a much weaker than expected between Dubai and Africa, we are confident that ers to travel and enhance connectivity between In addition, flydubai’s agility and flexibility as year and next. In other words, stability, and China. The Chinese government, after a our passengers will continue to enjoy our different cultures across its ever-expanding net- a young airline has enhanced Dubai’s economic slight improvement in growth with plenty long delay, revised down its target and fore- Business Class, award-winning In-Flight work. Since launching its operations in 2009, fly- development, in line with the Government of of liquidity, courtesy of QE, is expected to cast for this year to 7 percent. It is also vow- Entertainment and the ability to connect on our dubai has: Dubai’s vision, by creating trade and tourism pressure the euro further while providing growing network and beyond,” said Sudhir * Created a network of 94 destinations, with flows in previously underserved markets. support to European equity markets. The ing to act aggressively, should there be hope is also that a sustained deflation sce- signs of missing the target, not exactly a nario will be avoided. vote of confidence. Chinese inflation at The ECB action is expected to finally put about 1.5 percent is running at half the the euro-zone in a place similar to where (lowered) target of 3.0 percent. Talk of ren- Euro falls near $1, but the US was a few years back, when it minbi appreciation, prevalent the last two embarked early on its different QE pro- years, has faded, and the risk is for a some- grams. Note that at the time, the US was what lower renminbi, at least near term. facing lower unemployment and less defla- While lower oil prices have raised con- EU goods remain pricey tionary pressure than the euro-zone is fac- cerns about the GCC countries, major oil ing today, which is why the 10-year US exporters, we contend that the impact on the economies in the next 2-3 years will be Treasury never got as low as the miserable NEW YORK: Americans hunting for a bargain on 25 bps currently earned on 10-year German relatively muted and that real growth should remain well supported in the 5-6 a new Beemer, bottle of Chateau Margaux or Bunds. The latter is one of the reasons US Hermes handbag thanks to the sliding euro rates are expected to rise, though only very percent range for the non-oil side of these economies. Recent Markit PMI data from should put away their gold cards. European lux- gradually, this year as the spread to US ury goods sold in the US still carry luxurious rates have become gaping, at almost 200 Saudi Arabia and the UAE, show continued price tags. The European currency has fallen 10 bps in favor of the US for similar quality strong and steady growth in their non-oil credit. Also, and although the Fed removed sectors. The March overall index was at percent against the dollar this year. In theory, car the reference to “patience” from its March 60.1 for Saudi Arabia and 56.3 for the UAE. dealerships, department stores and other com- policy statement (as-expected), it signaled The need to diversify, and to build and panies that sell goods from Europe could pass in different ways that it remains very cau- improve their infrastructures, remains high on the savings to their American customers, said tious: its members’ economic and interest and the ability to finance is not in doubt Ira Kalish, chief global economist at Deloitte, the rate forecasts were revised down, pointing for the major GCC countries, all of which consulting and accounting firm. to a Fed hike rather late in the year. have very high levels of reserves and very “But what would be the point of doing that?” World growth is anticipated at 3-3.5 low debt levels. Kalish asked. Demand for anything made in Europe is so strong that they have little trouble moving merchandise. “From their perspective, it’s better to leave the price unchanged and pocket the profit.” The euro has been in a long tailspin. Last April, it was trading just shy of $1.40. Since then, it sank as low as $1.04 in March before bouncing back to $1.10 yesterday. In other words, you used to have to pay $1.40 to buy a single euro; today, you pay just $1.10. So where are the bargains? There’s no reason to think that prices for Italian shoes and French red wines will fall along with the euro, analysts said. Part of the reason is that most European consumer products sold in the US aren’t aimed at most consumers. Armani, Hermes, and Prada cater to the affluent, selling well-made products as well as the perception of prestige and status. They have an image to maintain and slashing BEVERLY HILLS: Shoppers walk past the Chanel Boutique on Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, prices isn’t part of it, Kalish said. Loyal customers California. The euro has fallen 10 percent against the dollar this year, but European luxury might consider it, well, gauche. “If a luxury prod- goods sold in the US still carry luxurious price tags. — AP uct becomes really cheap, they might think, Market, also said he doesn’t think people will see give these companies another reason to keep ‘Why am I buying it, then?’” Kalish said. “The high a significant fall in prices for European wines. prices high. Over the past decade, luxury brands price makes it attractive for some people.” KUWAIT: Gulf Bank’s representatives during the Kuwaiti dinar event. Any drop would start showing up with the 2015 such as Louis Vuitton and Prada shifted some of vintage, and even then, he said, other factors, their production to Asia, as manufacturers in the WINE such as bad weather, could easily offset a cur- region improved their ability to craft high-end Gulf Bank sponsors the Bill Earle, president of the National rency move. The only way people might benefit goods. As a result, the euro’s fall against Asian Association of Beverage Importers, said cus- from cheaper European wine, Earle said, is if currencies has driven up their costs. Kuwaiti dinar exhibition tomers shouldn’t expect to see cheaper prices they’re “bringing it over on an airplane.” for French and Italian wines anytime soon. CARS KUWAIT: Gulf Bank recently sponsored the through the promotion of new ideas, and Part of the explanation, Earle said, is that US WATCHES, HANDBAGS It’s the same story with German luxury cars. Kuwaiti dinar exhibition, the first project of the adoption of a new generation of young importers pay well in advance for wines that Similarly, anyone looking to score a Chanel Americans with a taste for fancy rides are its kind, which was held at the Fountain initiators and investors who seek achieving often take years to age. With Brunello di handbag on the cheap is in for a letdown. already able to afford them, so there’s no need Garden near Discovery Mall. their aspirations, and help them build their Montalcino from Italy, for instance, the wine sits Chanel’s classic handbag carried a $4,900 price for Mercedes-Benz, BMW or Audi to pass along The exhibition was under the patronage future. in an oak barrel for about four years before it’s tag last year, according to Robert Burke and the benefit of a falling euro to customers by of Minister of Information and Minister of The bank continues to support various ready. “One way to look at it is, the earliest you’re Associates, a luxury consulting firm. slashing prices. Demand for these German cars State for Youth Affairs Sheikh Salman Al- sectors of society, confirming its position as going to see cheaper Brunello is in 2019,” Earle That’s up from $2,250 in 2007. Chanel is remains solid. Audi’s US sales climbed 15 per- Hamoud Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Hind Al- a leading financial institution dedicated to said. But even then, there’s no guarantee that reportedly tweaking prices in other parts of the cent last year, while Mercedes’s sales rose nearly Sabeeh, Minister of Social Affairs and Labor its social responsibility role towards a more businesses will pass on savings to customers. globe while leaving them alone at its US stores. 10 percent and BMW’s 6.5 percent. Each compa- and the Minister of State for Planning and prosperous Kuwait. Earle said a bottle of wine has to pass through Robert Burke said he expects other luxury retail- ny is likely to pocket the extra money from Development, and aimed to highlight In February, Gulf Bank announced that layers of businesses before it shows up on the ers to follow Chanel’s cue. Demand remains so exchanging dollars to euros, no matter whether youth development projects as well as pre- it is taking part in the National Fund’s SME shelves - importers, distributors and retailers - senting them with the adequate opportu- Debt Program; a program which has been solid for these products in the U.S. that high-end the cars are made overseas or in the US. and each business has its own costs. Because nity to shed light on their ideas to all pri- developed by the Kuwait National Fund for retailers have no reason to pare prices. It would The exception might be Volkswagen, vate and government sectors. SMEs Development, to encourage an entre- currency markets can be volatile, businesses are only tarnish their elite image. whose US sales sank 3 percent last year. The Gulf Bank’s sponsorship emphasizes its preneurship ecosystem in Kuwait through slow to cut prices because any savings could Nate Herman, vice president of international company behind the Beetle, Golf and Touareg passion and commitment in supporting providing different forms of support to quickly vanish with a sudden swing in currency trade for the American Apparel & Footwear could use the weak euro to cut prices and lure young people and their development small-and medium-size enterprises (SMEs). trading. Doug Bell, a wine buyer for Whole Foods Association, said higher manufacturing costs more buyers. — AP US service firms grow at slightly slower pace

WASHINGTON: US service firms expanded at a Capital Economics, said in a note to clients. workforce, including retail, construction, health slightly slower yet still healthy pace in March, an At the same time, service firms covered by care and financial services companies. The ISM’s encouraging sign after multiple reports last week the report, which include health care providers, manufacturing index, released last week, fell for pointed to a slowing economy. hotels, restaurants, construction companies, and the fifth straight month in March. In addition to The Institute for Supply Management said banks, are less affected by some of the trends the strong dollar, factories have been held back yesterday that its services index slipped to 56.5 which have held back manufacturing. Factory by cheaper oil, which has hurt orders for steel last month, from 56.9 in February. Any reading output has slowed partly because of a rapid rise pipe and other equipment. over 50 indicates expansion. A measure of sales in the value of the dollar, which makes goods Home construction has been weak despite fell last month and dragged down the overall exports more expensive. low mortgage rates. And Americans are still cau- index. But gauges of hiring and orders rose, evi- Manufacturing firms were also hit by a labor tious about spending, even with a sharp plunge dence that services firms may see solid growth dispute at ports in California, which delayed the in gas prices since last June. in the coming months. shipping of needed parts and components. Growth has faltered as a result. The economy That suggests that recent signs of a weaken- Fourteen of 18 services industries reported expanded at a 2.2 percent annual rate in the ing economy could prove temporary. The servic- growth in March, led by real estate, hotels and final three months of last year, down sharply es figures come after a disappointing jobs report restaurants, and transportation and shipping. from a blistering 4.8 percent in the six months last week, which echoed a slew of other weak Still, many analysts now forecast that the from last April through November. Most analysts economic data this month. Employers added economy barely expanded in the first three expect it slowed even further in the January- just 126,000 jobs in March, the fewest in 15 months of this year. Growth has slowed dramati- March quarter. Harsh winter weather may have months. cally in the last six months. NEW YORK: William Dudley, president and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, been partly to blame. But paychecks are still “Based on this survey, rumors of the demise The ISM is a trade group of purchasing man- speaking during the World Leaders Forum at Columbia University in New York. The poor barely keeping up with inflation, even as the of the US economy have been greatly exagger- agers. Its survey of services firms covers busi- US labor market report for March is probably only part of a temporary downturn in the unemployment rate has fallen. That is likely ated,” Paul Ashworth, chief US economist at nesses that employ 90 percent of the American economy, a senior Federal Reserve official said yesterday. — AFP weighing on spending and growth. — AP TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 TECHNOLOGY Snowden warns US still intercepts intimate emails

WASHINGTON: Americans might cable comedy news show “John Oliver security provided by blanket surveil- with the line of thought, describing in on whether to renew the provisions of oppose intrusive surveillance if they Tonight.” lance and the public’s right to privacy. some detail how the various intelli- the Patriot Act, a law which was realized the government can see their Oliver didn’t give the man behind And he suggested a crude but per- gence gathering authorities and tech- passed in the aftermath of the most intimate emailed pictures, comic one of the biggest leaks in US intelli- haps effective way to focus public niques that he revealed in a trove of September 11, 2001 attacks to boost John Oliver suggested to fugitive gence history an easy ride, insisting he attention on the issue. leaked NSA documents could violate the US government’s security powers. intelligence technician Edward must take responsibility for informa- “This is the most visible line in the the private realm. The law has been renewed without Snowden. tion in press reports that put current sand for people: ‘Can they see mine?’” “The good news is that there’s no great debate in the past, but in May The British television host scored a anti-terror operations in jeopardy. Oliver said, suggesting that the NSA’s program named the ‘d..k pic’ program. 2013 Snowden leaked a massive haul rare one-on-one interview in Moscow But he also expressed sympathy Internet surveillance could intercept The bad news: they are still collecting of secret NSA documents to journal- with the notorious former National with Snowden’s efforts to trigger a emailed photographs of a private or everybody’s information-including ists that raised concerns about the Security Agency (NSA) contractor for public debate about the balance to be sexual nature. your d..k pics,” Snowden said. scope and misuse of state surveillance Sunday’s edition of his weekly US struck in a free society between the Snowden laughed but played along In June, the US Congress must vote at home and abroad. — AFP Twitter, YouTube blocked in Turkey over images

ANKARA/ISTANBUL: Turkey blocked him unless its demands were met. “The access to Twitter and YouTube yesterday wife and children of prosecutor Kiraz have over the publication of photographs of an been deeply upset. The images are every- Istanbul prosecutor held at gunpoint by where,” a senior Turkish official told Reuters. far-left militants hours before he was killed “A request has been made to both in a shootout last week, officials said. Twitter and YouTube for the removal of the Presidential spokesman Ibrahim Kalin images and posts but they have not said a prosecutor had sought the block on accepted it and no response has been giv- access to social media sites because some en. That’s why this decision has been taken media organisations had acted “as if they through a court in Istanbul.” were spreading terrorist propaganda” in Twitter and YouTube could not immedi- sharing the images. ately be reached for comment. Turkey’s “This has to do with the publishing of telecoms regulator also could not immedi- the prosecutor’s picture. What happened in ately be reached and there was no state- the aftermath (of the prosecutor’s killing) is ment on its website. as grim as the incident itself,” Kalin said. Turkey temporarily blocked Twitter and “The demand from the prosecutor’s YouTube in the run-up to local elections in office is that this image not be used any- March 2014, after audio recordings purport- where in electronic platforms,” he told a edly showing corruption in then-Prime news conference in Ankara. Minister Tayyip Erdogan’s inner circle were Istanbul prosecutor Mehmet Selim Kiraz leaked on their sites. That decision caused a died from his wounds last Tuesday after public uproar and drew heavy international security forces stormed the office where criticism. Turkey filed over five times more members of the far-left Revolutionary content-removal requests to Twitter than People’s Liberation Party-Front (DHKP-C) any other country in the second half of 2014, had taken him hostage. data published in February by the micro- His two captors were also killed. The blogging site showed. Last year, Turkey DHKP-C had published a picture of Kiraz tightened laws allowing sites to be blocked PHOENIX: In this March 31, 2015 photo, Nick Calderone, seated from left, and Gayle Bass film a segment on the set of “Right This Minute,” in with a gun to his head and said it would kill by the authorities more easily. — Reuters Phoenix. The show gives viewers a daily dose of web videos and the stories behind them. — AP

Iowa City Police to have body ‘RightThisMinute’ provides cameras within three months viewers quick hits from web IOWA CITY: The Iowa City Police In his memo, Hargadine said the Department is three months away from shared system would decrease the equipping all of its officers with body expected workload for department staff Its mission: To unearth interesting stuff cameras. when obtaining video for court purposes In a memo to city manager Tom and eliminate the need for additional NEW YORK: “RightThisMinute” wants to save Markus, Police Chief Sam Hargadine said training for officers. you time - the minutes and hours you might the police department has selected a “The hardest part of the equation of spend trolling the Internet for interesting new vendor, L3 Mobile Vision, for it’s body all of this is when you’ve got an entire videos in a search you could never hope to get camera needs. The department is mov- department that’s recording something ahead of. Instead, “RightThisMinute” invites you ing forward with a purchase of 84 cam- and finding that video five years from to tear your eyes from your browser for this syn- eras. The cameras will cost $33,516, plus now,” Hargadine said. “How do you index dicated TV show (which, available in more than an additional $4,490 for supporting infra- that video? How do you throw out what’s 90 percent of the United States, airs weekdays in structure and $3,700 for additional cable worthless and keep what’s evidence? two 30-minute blocks; check local listings). work, according to the memo. That’s the hard part.” Its mission: to unearth interesting stuff. “We The total cost of just under $42,000 Hargadine said he expects two receive want to find a great video before 3 million peo- will come from asset forfeiture, the cameras in two months and com- ple have seen it. We want to find it when 32 peo- ple have seen it,” says Beth Troutman, one of the Hargadine said. plete inventory, set up and training on show’s team of five co-hosts. “Then we add the That total is far less than what was the cameras within another month. journalism aspect: We don’t just show the video originally anticipated. Last September, Some officers have already been and laugh and point. We actually talk about the the Iowa City Council agreed to allocate equipped with cameras. “We’re up and story and people behind it.” $211,000 for body cameras and a digital going with the ones we have,” he said. “In “What we’ve tried to do is bridge the daytime storage system. However, in November, three months, we’ll have the big delivery TV audience with the hardcore I’m-on-YouTube- Hargadine asked the council to repeal and they’ll be on everybody.” all-the-time world,” says Phil Alvidrez, “RTM” that decision based on information he The final hurdle is crafting a policy for executive in charge of production. learned at the International Association the cameras that will govern their use The brisk format is simple: Hosts convene to of Chiefs of Police Conference. Hargadine and also strive to protect citizen’s priva- share with one another (and the audience) said new technology made it possible for cies. Hargadine said the department has videos they like, none of which their fellow pan- the body cameras to work in sync with been looking for guidance from the elists have seen until then. the department’s existing dash camera American Civil Liberties Union or Each of these laptop-equipped curators PHOENIX: In this March 31, 2015 photo, Beth Troutman is shown on the set of recording software, rather than require Attorney General’s Office, but so far no comes to the table having logged time plunder- “RightThisMinute”, in Phoenix. The show gives viewers a daily dose of web videos and the sto- it’s own system. rulings have been made on open records ing the web’s nooks and crannies - their efforts ries behind them. — AP Hargadine said Friday that, although versus the public’s expectation of privacy bolstered by a round-the-clock team of e-jays (as the camera may cost less than expected, in their homes. “No one has really in “e-journalists”) - while also digging into details ratings. “We consider it a reflection of what’s like all the other hosts, I have my tricks and my it’s not an inferior model when com- thought that through,” he said. “There’s a of who made a chosen video and why. going on in people’s lives: sharing videos,” favorite websites I like to frequent.” pared with competitors. lot more to it than ‘everything is an open “We found a video where a baby cried when Alvidrez says, “but we want to get out there In her own way, Troutman reflects the eclectic “We’ve tested it,” he said. “It’s one of a record.’” the mother sang to her,” says Alvidrez. “This one ahead of the curve and find the videos that are group of co-hosts who also include Christian beautiful song elicited one particular reaction, the sturdier products on the market. Hargadine said if the ACLU, Attorney going to be popular. Vera, Gayle Bass, Nick Calderone and Oli and the dad picked up his camera and posted We’re going to roll it out and at a signifi- General’s Office or legislature doesn’t We’re looking for informative stuff, silly stuff, Pettigrew. the video for friends. They never intended to be heartwarming stuff, all of it user-generated. A political science graduate of the University cant cost savings. I would put these cam- offer any guidance, the city will write its YouTube stars.” eras up against the other models.” own policy. —AP “When you consider that there’s 100 hours of of North Carolina, Troutman’s resume includes video being uploaded every minute onto four years in production on NBC’s “The West Popular YouTube, it’s a pretty big universe to try to make Wing,” an unsuccessful Congressional run in Not only did “RightThisMinute” bring this a splash in,” he adds. “RTM” is seeking splash- North Carolina at age 27 (“I had a ‘Mr. Smith video to light before it went viral, he says, “but worthy videos. (And it welcomes viewers’ video Goes to Washington’ thought when I filed,” she nobody else called the father except us. We like submissions on its website.) says with a wry laugh, “then I got punched in the to find out, What were they thinking? Why One early discovery: “What Does the Fox stomach a couple of times”), and anchor duties would they do that? Who are they? Where? Say?” A delightfully wacky music video, it report- on local television and Lifetime’s “The Balancing “Even if a video is already well-known, you edly went on to became the top trending video Act.” “If opportunities come your way, just say, might learn something about it on our show of 2013 and has now logged a half-billion views. ‘Yes,’” she advises, “then figure out how to make that you wouldn’t have learned otherwise.” “Not everything we find blows up big,” says it work.” Troutman joined the show at its incep- Quietly tucked away in Phoenix, “RTM” is Alvidrez. “But very little that blows up big hasn’t tion in 2011, and ever since, she says, “I come in flourishing in its fourth season, averaging 6.6 gone through our show first.” every day and it’s a day of discovery.” But not just million viewers per week and beating such stal- “When I got here, I didn’t know how to find discovery for her, she points out. For warts as “Dr. Oz” and “Rachael Ray” in household those secret gems,” Troutman confides. “Now, “RightThisMinute” viewers, too. —AP Oregon releases 94,000 emails from former governor’s fiancee

SALEM: The state of Oregon has released 94,000 er records. The documents released include one strong weight of the public interest justifies the emails involving the fiancee of former Gov. John from October, shortly after Hayes held a tearful release of these records,” Grainger said in a state- Kitzhaber, who resigned amid scandal earlier press conference to acknowledge that she had ment. —AP this year over allegations that the former first accepted about $5,000 to enter a fraudulent lady used her relationship with him to land con- marriage in 1997 with a man seeking immigra- tracts for her business. tion benefits. Hayes e-mailed a reply to a man The emails released late Friday are messages she had met at a conference who was trying to between Cylvia Hayes and staff members in schedule a phone conversation. Kitzhaber’s office. “It sounds like maybe you have not seen the The messages show efforts by Hayes and the media firestorm I am in the midst of,” she wrote. governor’s staff to respond to an onslaught of “It is very intense, painful and embarrassing. I do media questions about her consulting work for know it will pass as the campaign season closes. advocacy organizations seeking to influence I will make a note to follow up with you in state government. November to set up a call.” The emails, released in response to public Kristen Grainger, spokeswoman for Gov. Kate records requests, also include notes of support Brown, who took office when Kitzhaber stepped from friends and allies. down, said that among the thousands of docu- BAY CITY: Bay City Public Safety Officer Jason Richnak demonstrates how the body- Kitzhaber, a Democrat, resigned in February, ments released were internal advisories and cor- worn camera operates March 25, at Bay County Law Enforcement Center in Bay City, saying the influence-peddling allegations sur- respondence between lawyers for the gover- Mich. Officers will wear two body-worn cameras from different brands during the rounding Hayes had become too much of a dis- nor’s office “Governor Brown believes that, in pilot program. A number of other Michigan departments are adding body cameras traction. The FBI is investigating and has issued view of the unique and historic circumstances or considering the equipment. — AP subpoenas for the emails and thousands of oth- surrounding these particular documents, the TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 HEALTH & SCIENCE

DreaMed Diabetes technology used in Medtronic insulin pump

TEL AVIV: Israel-based DreaMed using its technology. Medtronic will be rithm, is an automated system for con- and high blood glucose episodes. of the intensive insulin management Diabetes said yesterday it had licensed responsible for the development and trolling glucose levels. “We believe that a fully automated business at Medtronic. its artificial pancreas technology for inte- marketing of the pumps. It analyses the body’s glucose levels artificial pancreas will provide greater The global market for products to gration into insulin pumps made by The U.S. medical device maker has and directs the pump to deliver the cor- freedom and better health for many peo- manage diabetes stands at $41 billion Medtronic. also invested $2 million in DreaMed. rect dose of insulin to the body, mimick- ple with diabetes by eliminating some of and is estimated to surpass $114 billion DreaMed will receive undisclosed roy- DreaMed’s GlucoSitter, which is based on ing the behaviour of a healthy pancreas. the burden of glucose management,” by 2018. Insulin-dependent patients alties from future sales of each device the MD-Logic Artificial Pancreas algo- This minimises the risk of suffering low said Alejandro Galindo, general manager represent half of this market. —Reuters

High-efficiency wood heating systems winning converts

ATHENS: With the touch of a finger on an ect subsidized a pellet boiler in the Saranac iPod-style screen, Eric Besenfelder can moni- Town Hall last November. Jerry Delaney, a tor and troubleshoot the shiny, wood-pellet Saranac councilman, said the town expects furnace that heats Athens Elementary School to save $1,000 a year by heating with pellets in the Hudson Valley. instead of oil. Like the smoky, outdoor wood boilers that have proliferated in rural areas over the Pellet boilers past 20 years, the wood furnace at Athens is According to the Northern Forest housed in a shed behind the building. But Center, the Northeast consumes more that’s where the similarity ends. than 80 percent of the US supply of home “This burns very cleanly and produces heating oil and spends more than $6 bil- very little ash,” said Besenfelder, director of lion annually on fossil fuels. Rural areas facilities for the Coxsackie-Athens School usually have no access to natural gas, the District, beside the Hudson River 30 miles cheapest and cleanest-burning fossil fuel, south of Albany. “It takes no more mainte- and must rely on oil and propane deliv- nance than an oil boiler. Everything’s auto- ered by truck. mated.” For the advanced pellet boilers, fuel is Athens is among a growing number of delivered by a converted oil or grain truck schools, government buildings, nature cen- and blown into a storage hopper. ters and homes that have switched from fos- Automated augurs feed the pellets into sil fuels to renewable wood heat in Northern the burner and remove fine ash, which can states to save money and support the local be spread as a fertilizer on farm fields. forestry economy. Heat circulates through the building via At least 10 states offer incentives includ- hot-water radiators. ing grants, low-interest loans, tax credits and “This one project will do three signifi- training programs to promote biomass heat- cant things,” said Maura Adams, director of ing, according to the Alliance for Green Heat. the Northern Forest Center. “It will help The New York Energy Research and businesses and homeowners lower their Development Authority is offering home- heating costs; it will increase demand for owners 25 percent of the installed cost of an wood pellets, which supports jobs in our advanced wood-pellet boiler up to $20,000, forest-based businesses; and it will keep NEW DELHI: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi (L) arrives with Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar at the start of the with a $4,000 bonus if they’re replacing a money circulating in the local economy inauguration of the Enviornment and Forest Ministers conference in New Delhi yesterday. India’s government launched a new air smoky old-fashioned wood boiler. Large rather than being exported.” quality index yesterday, under intense pressure to act after the World Health Organisation declared New Delhi the world’s most commercial installations can get 25 percent The pellets burned in Saranac come of the cost, up to $150,000. from Curran Renewable Energy’s pellet polluted capital. —AFP The Northern Forest Center, a nonprofit mill in Massena along the St. Lawrence based in Concord, New Hampshire, is pro- River. Co-owner Pat Curran said sister moting the biomass heat industry by subsi- company Seaway Timber Harvesting cuts India to strike own dizing the installation of high-efficiency pel- trees, predominantly hardwood, and chips let boilers in “model neighborhoods.” The them to supply the pellet plant. Bark and idea is to create a critical mass of users to branches are shredded and sold to fuel a increase familiarity with the systems and power plant at Fort Drum. demonstrate their value. The biomass fuel industry is filling a path in climate battle The first such neighborhood was void left by declines in the paper and launched in Berlin, New Hampshire, in 2011, board markets, Curran said, allowing the and includes 40 homes, an arts center and company to expand from 80 to 116 full- two housing complexes. Homeowners have time employees. “At least half of the work- Measures air quality in world’s most polluted capital saved close to $160,000 on heating fuel by force is related to the biomass industry,” switching to pellets from oil heat, according he said. NEW DELHI: India’s prime minister suggested ahead of UN-led talks late this year in Paris on Delhi worse than Beijing to Northern Forest Center director Maura Athens gets its pellets from a mill in yesterday the country’s “age-old traditions” could reducing greenhouse gas emissions. A World Health Organization study of 1,600 Adams. The idea is catching on beyond the Massachusetts for $220 a ton, including be used to ease its choking smog, as he launched “The world guides us on climate change and cities released last year showed Delhi had the model neighborhood, with about 300 pellet delivery. The school burned 46 tons of pel- a new air quality index for the world’s most pol- we follow them? The world sets the parameters world’s highest annual average concentration boiler installations statewide, she said. lets in the winter of 2013-14, which equals luted capital. and we follow them? It is not like that... India can of small airborne particles known as PM2.5 — Model neighborhoods have also been 4,600 gallons of fuel oil then priced at Narendra Modi proposed making every lead the world,” he said. higher even than Beijing. launched in Maine and Vermont, and most $3.30 a gallon, netting a savings of $5,043, Sunday “bicycle day” and switching off street These extremely fine particles of less than recently, in the Adirondacks, where the proj- Besenfelder said. —AP lights during a full moon, amid growing public Ease air pollution 2.5 micrometres in diameter are linked with concern over the impact of air pollution on the Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar said increased rates of chronic bronchitis, lung can- health of India’s 1.2 billion people. the new index could drive efforts to ease air pol- cer and heart disease as they penetrate deep “There can be green solutions in our age-old lution. into the lungs and can pass into the blood- traditions,” he said in a speech at a conference of But he gave little indication of what the gov- stream. environmental policymakers in the capital New ernment would do except to promise new rules India disputed the WHO’s assertion, but has Delhi. “What if our city governments... decided on disposing of construction waste. conceded that air pollution in the capital is not to switch on the street lights during a full The dust from India’s thousands of industrial comparable with that of Beijing. moon?” he said. and construction sites adds to the fumes from An air quality index compiled by the US “It is only a small thing, but you can imagine millions of vehicles to create the toxic cocktail embassy in Delhi yesterday registered a PM2.5 how much energy could be saved and emissions that city-dwellers breathe. reading of 175, which is considered unhealthy. could be cut if all the street lights were switched Many experts were unimpressed. “Monitoring The reading from the US embassy in Beijing off during a full moon.” pollution is not a solution to stop pollution,” said was just 53, which is considered moderate. The government said the new index would ecologist Vandana Shiva, adding Modi’s cam- A new government website for the index, initially cover 10 cities-Delhi, Agra, Kanpur, paign to attract foreign companies to manufac- which will provide colour-coded air quality Lucknow, Varanasi, Faridabad, Ahmedabad, ture in India would only exacerbate the problem. rankings ranging from “good” to “severe”, went Chennai, Bangalore and Hyderabad-each of “It’s like finding a very sick person and instead live on Monday morning, but could not be which would have monitoring stations with Air of treating him, you hand him a thermometer. accessed. Officials said it had likely collapsed Quality Index display boards. You have to take strict policy action, not launch under high demand. The government is under intense pressure to symbolic measures.” The aim is for the index to eventually cover act after the World Health Organization last year Greenpeace welcomed the new index but 66 cities. The government gave few details declared New Delhi the world’s most polluted said it had expected the government “to address about the new rules on construction waste. capital. the issue with more rigour and responsibility”. Delhi generates up to 4,000 tonnes of con- At least 3,000 people die prematurely every “Delhi is facing a public health emergency struction debris every day, according to a 2014 year in the city because of air pollution, accord- and an air quality index needs to be matched study by the Centre for Science and ing to a joint study by Boston-based Health with actionable plans on how to bring the pollu- Environment. ATHENS: This Wednesday, April 1, 2015 photo shows a pellet silo behind the Effects Institute and Delhi’s Energy Resources tion levels down,” said campaigner Aishwarya Policymakers have suggested restrictions Athens Elementary School in Athens, N.Y. Financial incentives and techno- Institute. Madineni in a statement. on private vehicles, higher pollution-related logical advances have led a growing number of schools, local government Modi also signalled that India would not bow “This is merely (a) bandaid on a wound that taxes and stricter enforcement of urban plan- buildings, nature centers and homes to switch from fossil fuels to renewable to foreign pressure on tackling climate change, needs stitches, the bleeding is going to continue.” ning laws. —AFP heat in northern states. —AP Vigorous exercise helps DNA testing for dog poop people live longer: Study on the rise in Seattle SEATTLE: Frustrated with dog owners PooPrints testing kits to 26 apartment “They’re lazy, I guess.” MIAMI: Vigorous exercise, the kind that Association (JAMA) Internal Medicine. nis, or household chores. who refuse to clean up after their and condo complexes and homeown- That’s why, since February 2014, makes you sweat, get red in the face The study participants were fol- “The benefits of vigorous activity pets, an increasing number of apart- ers associations in the region. tenants have been paying a “one-time and breathe hard, may be better than lowed for more than six years. Those applied to men and women of all ages, ments in Seattle are opting to use Erin Atkinson, property manager at fee of $29.95 for DNA testing.” moderate exercise when it comes to liv- who did jogging, aerobics or competi- and were independent of the total DNA testing to identify the culprits. Potala Village Apartments in Everett BioPet says in the past five years, ing longer, researchers said yesterday. tive tennis-vigorous exercise for 30 per- amount of time spent being active,” The Seattle Times reports says the messes are all over. the DNA test has been used in nearly The study by Australian researchers is cent of their weekly workouts-had a said lead author Klaus Gebel from (http://bit.ly/1HxGgb2 ) that a compa- “There was poop inside the ele- 1,000 places around the country, and based on more than 200,000 adults mortality rate that was nine to 13 per- James Cook University’s Centre for ny called BioPet Vet Lab from vators, in the carpeted hallways, it’s especially popular in Miami, Dallas, over age 45, and is published in the cent lower than those who did moder- Chronic Disease Prevention. Knoxville, Tennessee, is providing its up on the roof,” Atkinson said. Los Angeles and other large cities. Journal of the American Medical ate exercise, like swimming, social ten- “The results indicate that whether The marketing took a little longer or not you are obese, and whether or to reach the Northwest, but King- not you have heart disease or diabetes, Snohomish-Pierce counties are oppor- if you can manage some vigorous tune sites. They are home to about activity it could offer significant bene- 811,000 dogs. Seattle has 50 percent fits for longevity.” more dogs than kids, the Times said. Currently, the World Health One study said the average dog poop Organization urges adults to do at least weighs one-third of a pound and the 150 minutes of moderate activity or 75 dogs in that three-county region are minutes of vigorous activity per week. responsible for about 268,000 pounds But the current research suggests that of droppings a day. given the choice, people should opt for Atkinson says that after some ini- some higher intensity exercise if they tial fines, DNA testing is working at can, and if their doctor agrees, the her complex, with two dozen or so study authors said. dogs. “Our research indicates that even “One person was fined five times in small amounts of vigorous activity one week,” she said. “That’s over $500. could help reduce your risk of early Now people clean up after their dogs.” death,” Gebel said. The fines added up this way: “For those with medical conditions, BURLINGAME: A senior vice president Scott Delucchi looks over a $59.95 to have the poop tested, and for older people in general, and for $50 to the complex for the hassle of those who have never done any recent DNA dog test result at the Peninsula Humane Society and KABUL: An Afghan health worker gives a vaccination to a child dur- collecting the sample. vigorous activity or exercise before, it’s SPCA in Burlingame, Calif. Through DNA testing in the “Who’s Your Atkinson says that residents at the ing a polio campaign in Kandahar, south of Kabul, Afghanistan, always important to talk to a doctor Daddy?” campaign, dogs are being placed in homes twice as fast complex are “mostly on board” for yesterday. —AP first.” —AFP since the shelter started the promotion. —AP having their dogs’ DNA tested. —AP TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 HEALTH & SCIENCE Eastern Sierra Leone records first Ebola case in months

FREETOWN: Sierra Leone’s eastern district of Sources at the Nixon Hospital in Kailahun Kailahun, once a hotbed of Ebola, has recorded its District confirmed that the boy underwent a first case in nearly four months, threatening blood transfusion before dying. progress made to stamp out the disease, officials “I am aware of the weakness in the health sys- said on Saturday. tem which means that the blood transfused into A 9-month-old boy tested positive for Ebola the baby could well not have been the blood that after dying in Kailahun, the district on Guinea’s had been donated by his uncle,” Bonapha said. border that recorded Sierra Leone’s first Ebola A ministry of health official expressed serious case last May and was for months the epicentre of concern over the case, which came as the focus of the crisis. local and international health officials is on the Kailahun went from recording up to 80 infec- north and west of the country, the latest areas tions per week in June to zero cases at the end of affected by Ebola. last year. Nearly 3,800 people have died of Ebola Liberia, once the hardest hit of all the coun- in Sierra Leone but numbers of weekly cases are tries in West Africa, has detected no Ebola cases falling as steps to control the disease take hold. after the last confirmed patient died at the end of However, Winnie Romeril, a spokeswoman for March. the World Health Organisation, said local and for- However, Guinea has imposed a 45-day state eign experts had been dispatched to investigate of health emergency to tackle a spike of cases in the case after the positive test result. the country where the outbreak was first con- Alex Bonapha, the Kailahun district council firmed last year. As part of these measures, chairman, said it was not clear how the boy may authorities closed all private medical clinics in have contracted Ebola as both his parents were Kindia, 135 km (84 miles) from the capital healthy. Conakry, after a new case of Ebola was recorded He said the boy may have gotten the disease there. The worst Ebola outbreak on record has during a blood transfusion or there may have now killed nearly 10,500 people, mainly in Liberia, been a problem with the sample that was tested. Sierra Leone and Guinea. —Reuters

NEW YORK: In this March 16, 2011, file photo, a security fence surrounds the inmate housing on New York’s Rikers Island correctional facility in New York. The two-year study at New York’s sprawling jail complex concluded with a bold recommendation to remove health workers entirely from the most contentious dilemma they face, whether to put an inmate in solitary. That’s because many doctors believe the confinement, which involves 23-hour stretches of isolation, could harm inmates. —AP NYC health workers’ ethics are compromised in jails Confinement could harm inmates: Doctors

NEW YORK: New York City jail health workers tal health diagnosis, and many come in with said they would either ask the guard to leave or say their medical ethics are often compromised long-untreated health problems. call a supervisor, while 13 percent said they by the demands of treating patients who are would ask the inmate to sign the report as is, also prisoners, such as when they witness Suicides while documenting the inmate’s account in the guards’ use of force or are asked to approve The Associated Press reported last year that electronic health record. stints in solitary confinement, according to a breakdowns in procedures and protocols may WASHINGTON: In this March 17, 2015, file photo, House Budget Committee first-of-its-kind city study. have contributed to nine of 11 suicides at Rikers Mental illness Chairman Rep. Tom Price, R-Ga. speaks during a news conference on Capitol The two-year study at New York’s sprawling over the past five years. And the AP also uncov- A common theme is that inmate complaints Hill in Washington. Both parties have already taken victory laps for legisla- Rikers Island jail complex concluded with a bold ered documents over the same period that of physical or mental illness are taken seriously recommendation to remove health workers questioned the quality and timeliness of care in by health workers but viewed by guards as fak- tion Congress is expected to complete this month reshaping how Medicare entirely from the most contentious issue they 15 inmate deaths that had been considered ing to get out of punishment, particularly soli- pays doctors. Besides helping physicians, the bipartisan bill bolsters health face - whether to put an inmate in solitary. That’s purely medical. tary confinement, known on Rikers as “the bing.” care programs for children and low-income people. —AP because many doctors believe the confinement, Correctional health experts say the Rikers Electronic health records examined in the which involves 23-hour stretches of isolation, health worker study - based on a review of thou- study show that jail health workers often strug- could harm inmates. sands of health records, survey responses, focus gle with what to do with inmates who threaten Too much iced tea caused “Whatever the security reasoning for place- groups and interviews with 19 patients who hurt to hurt themselves if put in solitary - even if they ment in such units, the participation of health themselves while locked away - is perhaps the were thought to be a low risk of actually com- staff in this process is cumbersome, time inten- most comprehensive documentation in a U.S. mitting suicide. man’s kidney problems sive, of questionable value and does not reflect a correctional setting of the “dual loyalties” phe- Those inmates are referred to by guards as patient-health provider interaction that is in the nomenon. “bing beaters.” “Don’t tell us that this inmate who NEW YORK: Doctors traced an Arkansas man’s cases, too much oxalate can lead to kidney trou- patient’s best interest,” city health officials write “A bedrock principle is that the physician’s came in fine yesterday and didn’t have no prob- kidney failure to an unusual cause - his habit of ble, but often there’s also a contributing intestinal in the study, set to be published in the June primary ethic is to act in the interests of the lems, all of the sudden now that it’s time to go to drinking a gallon of iced tea each day. problem. That didn’t seem to be the case for the issue of the Health and Human Rights Journal. patients,” said Dr. Scott Allen, a professor at the bing, he’s got psychological problems,” said They ruled out several potential causes before Arkansas man, and he had no family or personal Corrections officials didn’t comment on the University of California Riverside School of Norman Seabrook, president of the Correction stumbling on a reason for the 56-year-old man’s history of kidney disease. At 16 cups of iced black study’s recommendation, but a spokeswoman Medicine who formerly served as the top med- Officers’ Benevolent Association. kidney problems. He said he drank about 16 8- tea each day, he was taking in three to 10 times for jails Commissioner Joseph Ponte said in a ical official in Rhode Island’s prisons. “These con- About 16 percent of health workers said ounce cups of iced tea every day. Black tea has a more oxalate than the average American, Ghaffar statement that in the past year, corrections and flicts are built in to jails and prisons because of they’ve heard of or seen guards beating inmates chemical known to cause kidney stones or even and her colleagues reported. health officials have worked to improve condi- the conflicting missions of what security needs in a clinic, and they acknowledged in focus kidney failure in excessive amounts. “It was the Federal studies suggest that, on average, U.S. tions and reduce the use of solitary, including to do versus what medical needs to do.” group discussions that they worried about retali- only reasonable explanation,” said Dr. Umbar adults drink a total of 10 or 11 cups of beverages creating therapeutic housing units for seriously At Rikers, the study found more than one- ation if they reported such brutality. Ghaffar of the University of Arkansas for Medical per day - that’s water, coffee and all other liquids mentally ill inmates who have trouble following third of mental health workers feel their ethics “People don’t feel supported here, so they Sciences in Little Rock. She and two other doctors combined.Ghaffar didn’t know if the man drank jailhouse rules. are regularly compromised. It also found health have a mentality of: ‘If I don’t see anything, then I describe the case in Thursday’s New England sugar-sweetened iced tea - the way it is usually Tension between jail guards, who focus on workers’ independence is routinely challenged don’t know anything. And that protects me,’” one Journal of Medicine. served in the South. While he’d had diabetes, that enforcing order, and health workers, who have by guards’ use of force, solitary and even more health worker said in a focus group. The unidentified man went to the hospital last didn’t cause his kidney problems, she said. The taken an oath to protect patient health, exists in mundane, daily security practices. Gabriel Eber, a lawyer with the American May with nausea, weakness, fatigue and body Arkansas case appears to be very unusual, said Dr. lockups across the country. In a survey, more than 90 percent of health Civil Liberties Union National Prison Project, aches. Doctors determined his kidneys were badly Randy Luciano, a Yale School of Medicine kidney But experts have specifically cited such com- workers said they had treated an inmate for who has worked on the issue, said corrections clogged and inflamed by the food chemical called specialist who has treated people with kidney peting priorities as a problem that has played a injuries noted in an official report as resulting systems across the country should conduct oxalate. The man is on dialysis, perhaps for the damage from too much oxalate. “I wouldn’t tell role in neglect and poor treatment at Rikers from an inmate-on-inmate fight while the similar studies. rest of his life, Ghaffar said. people to stop drinking tea,” said Luciano, who Island. The 10-jail complex employs more than inmate claimed he had actually been beaten by “Above all considerations, the goal of any cor- Besides black tea, oxalate is found in spinach, was not involved in the research. What the man 9,000 guards and 1,400 health workers; 40 per- guards. rectional health care system should be to meet rhubarb, nuts, wheat bran and chocolate. In rare drank “is a lot of tea.” —AP cent of the roughly 11,000 inmates have a men- About 70 percent of those health workers the needs of a patient,” he said. —AP WHAT’S ON TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 AOU participates in Edutex to spread its learning philosophy

he Arab Open University this participation is to meet other (AOU) is always keen on academic institutions and train- Tparticipating in most of the ing centers and provide informa- cultural and academic events tion to interested students. This regionally and internationally, in exhibition is a great opportunity particular these taking place in for students to get necessary AOU branch countries as the information about various uni- AOU branches spread in various versities and their offered pro- Arab countries, said Ali Al-Qallaf, grams, Al-Qallaf said. Director of the cultural relations The AOU’ stand was unique and information department at that its location and size are cho- the AOU on the sidelines of the sen perfectly and the number of AOU’s participation in the third the visitors was enormous, the international education and university representatives pre- training exhibition (Edutex) in sented detailed information on Bahrain. the university plus to survey the Al-Qallaf said the AOU’s par- students’ attitudes on the system ticipation in Edutex came as a of the university, said Al-Qallaf, part of the philosophy of the uni- hailing the efforts of the AOU versity to acquaint students with Bahrain Branch director and the the system of blended learning - director of financial and adminis- a combination of open learning, trative affairs at the branch in traditional learning and self- addition to the participation-staff learning, adding that this system in making this participation suc- is relied on internationally high cessful at all levels, this success quality of education. During the had a positive echo among exhibition, information about the media and academic bodies in majors and programs offered by addition to representatives of the university were presented to official bodies and diplomatic visitors. He added that our aim of missions visited the exhibition.

Future Eye Theatre, Kuwait anniversary and workshop enowned Indian theatre director 9.30 am to 1.30 pm at the Indian Sankar Venkateswaran will inau- Community School, Amman Branch in Rgurate 5th anniversary celebra- which theatre lovers from different ama- tions of Future Eye Theatre, Kuwait on teur troupes will attend. Friday, April 10, 2015 at the Indian Future Eye Theatre will present its lat- Community School, Auditorium est production ‘Puzhayil, Ilayil Oru Urump’, (Senior), Salmiya. Venkateswaran, who a contemporary Malayalam play during currently serves as the Artistic Director the anniversary celebration. The play of International Theatre Festival of depicts the existential angst of a Gulf Kerala (ITFoK), will conduct a theatre returnee and his world of fantasy as he workshop titled ‘The Art and Craft of fights for survival in a hostile urban socie- Acting’ on Saturday April 11, 2015 from ty. All drama lovers are welcome.

KDA Mahilavedi to hold Art & Feast Festival 2015

ahilavedi is the ladies wing of ty. Mahilavedi is also committed to extend pos- Chitra Iyer, a well acclaimed Playback singer and Kozhikode District Association, Kuwait, sible assistance to the needy and downtrodden the presence of eminent ladies personalities in Ma registered association with Indian and less fortunate compatriots of Kozhikode Kuwait adds attraction to the event. Embassy in Kuwait. The Mahilavedi was also District. Cookery competition on Payasam / Kheer formed at the time of formation of the Mahilavedi is organizing a full day event preparation for ladies, Paper Jewellery Making Association itself on 1st January 2010. titled ‘Art & Feast Festival-2015’ for ladies and for ladies and the age of 10 to 18 years, Light Kozhikode District Association Mahilavedi children on 10th April 2015 at Indian Central Music for 10 to 18 years, Folk Dance for 6 to 12 and Balavedi aim at empowering the expatri- School, Abbasiya from 9.00 AM onwards. A vari- years, Fancy Dress for 3 to 6 years and Little ates women and children from Kozhikode ety of Arts & Cookery competitions for women Stars for 1 to 3 years will be held. Group items District (Kerala State, India) living in Kuwait. and children of all ages aimed to promote their like Cinematic Fusion Dance, Nadanpattukl (folk Mahilavedi strives to give opportunities to talents are organized. Also the event targets a song), Fruit & Veg: Carving and Salad Dressing women to boost their confidence and build self- fund rising as a financial aid for the Associations are also organized. The students from all Indian esteem through various activities as to con- Charity program “Karunyam”. Schools in Kuwait & Ladies of all Communities in tribute towards development of a better socie- The festival will be inaugurated by Mrs. Kuwait will participate in these competitions.

Embassy of India

he Embassy of India shall remain closed on 14 April 2015 Tuesday-Birthday of Dr Ambedkar. However, Ton above day, the Embassy will continue to provide Emergency services in the Consular and Visa section.

What’s On - Submission Guidelines

All photos submitted for What’s On should be minimum 200dpi. Articles must be in plain text and TEF holds mega musical event

should include name and phone amilNadu Engineer’s Forum organized a mega musical stage. Our tiny tots Master Siddarth Bala / Miss Ananya sequence and were perfectly coordinated. The mind blow- numbers. Articles and photos that event as part of the family inaugural program for the Muthumaran handed over a bouquet of flowers to the Chief ing performance by the artists glued the audience to their Tyear 2015 on 2nd Apr’15. Music stands out as one of Guest. Rajan, delivered the welcome address and invited the seats. fail to meet these requirements will the greatest creations of mankind, every human with a heart Chief Guest to speak few words on the occasion. Rajendrakannan and executive committee member is inevitably stirred by some form of music. The program Before the commencement of the musical program, His Muthu, Muthumaran & Yuvaraj along with spouses of the not be published. began at 6:30 pm with Tamil Thai Vazhthu. As a customary Excellency Shri. Sunil Jain released a book written by one of other committee members, Mrs Suguna Elamaran and Mrs tradition, any event begins with the lighting of the lamp. Dr our TEFian K Chakravarthi. The book comprises of 18 short Padma Krishna Kumar presented mementos as a token of Gargi Jain, Mrs Rajalakshmi Rajan and Mrs Mythili stories revolving around incidents of a common men written love and appreciation to all the artists and performers of the Please send them to Rajendrakannan lit the lamp and let the commencement of in Tamil. evening. During the course of the program, a small speech the program. The musical evening began with a grand introduction to on the “Importance of Arabic” was delivered by Mrs Mythili [email protected] President Rajan, General Secretary Rajendrakannan and the playback singers Mrs Saindhavi, Haricharan & Saddaga Kannan. The program concluded with Vote of Thanks by Secretary Finance Muthu accompanied the Chief Guest of Paravaigal musical troupe. Our Emcees of the evening, Mrs Raghuraman, followed by dinner. The program was well the evening Sunil Jain, Indian Ambassador to Kuwait to the Ramalakshmi and Ms Namarata led the program flow in a organized with the effort organizing committee members. WHAT’S ON TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015

uwait Voluntary Ejabiya (positivity) team met Information Minister Sheikh Salman Al-Humoud Al-Sabah and discussed the team’s achievements with all governors to encourage voluntary Kaction and to reach ideal cooperation with the healthy cities organization represented by Dr Ahmad Al-Shatti and Dr Amal Al-Yahya. The minister thanked the head of the Ejabiya team Narjis Al- ACK holds lecture on Shatti for the tremendous efforts exerted by the team of reflect, the civilized image of Kuwait. ‘Impact of low oil prices’

t the invitation of the that the $100 plus price of oil that its current level of over 4m.b.d in Australian College of Kuwait prevailed in the recent past allowed 2015 and 2016, albeit at a decreas- ADr Herman Franssen, the introduction of expensive tech- ing rate. This is due to advances in Executive Director of Energy nologies that established hitherto drilling efficiency, lower cost of rigs Intelligence Group, Washington D.C., uneconomic sources of oil, such as brought in by receding demand and the concentration on more produc- tive areas. The current relatively low prices of oil i.e., $60 or less for Brent mix, are likely to persist in view of the amount of extraction capacity that is shut in due to political factors. The role of geopolitics makes it impossible to predict future price movements, beyond those that reflect the current excess of supply over the slow moving demand and the rising cost of storage. One thing seems to be certain OPEC’s Nov. 27, 2014 decision not to Saracens Rugby players gear cut back its extraction was not the cause of the price retreat from $100 plus. The high prices were due to up for Bahrain Rugby festival speculation related to geopolitical considerations. The current drop in ore than 300 junior rugby The moment these children step throughout the region. Mrs. Salma price was primarily caused by the players from across the Gulf onto the rugby pitch, they will join a Al-Hajjaj, General Manager - Human amount of oil extracted from shale Mregion will battle it out over large and tight-knit community of Resources at Gulf Bank said: “We are rock. the weekend of 24th and 25th April rugby players. “It’s definitely a great very pleased to support these young The memory of the 1985-1986 at the Bahrain Rugby Football Club exposure for our team to play in a athletes and wish all the teams the price collapse and the receding (RFC), making it one of the largest competitive environment and espe- best of luck in Bahrain. Gulf Bank is share of OPEC oil in aggregate world grassroots rugby gathering in the cially that we are the only team rep- very committed to encouraging supply, have effectively removed Middle East. resenting Kuwait in this Tournament,” young people to develop their tal- delivered a lecture on “the Impact of the tight oil and gas trapped in shale OPEC from being the swing supplier The Rugby Festival series, which is said Lynne Hughes, Saracens club ents and improve their skills and our Low Oil Prices on Global Oil and gas rock, to be counted as “conventional in maintaining the price. According also held in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and director. sponsorship is just one of the many markets; Winners and Losers”. The supplies”. to Dr Franssen, cutting back on Doha over the rugby season, has Committed to supporting major ways in which we are trying to do event took place Sunday 29th “The Shale Era”, as Dr Franssen OPEC supply doesn’t make sense. teams to compete from Under 8 to sports activities in Kuwait, Gulf Bank this.” Under 18 categories. Teams will play reaffirms its commitment to broad- “The tournament is a superb March, at ACK auditorium. termed it, is here to stay. At prices “An abridged handout of Dr for points for an end-of-season prize, ening horizons and encouraging opportunity for everyone involved. Dr Franssen reviewed the techni- below $60, but above $50, US Franssen’s lecture can be obtained a VIP training session with the HSBC youth to lead a healthy fit lifestyle as We are delighted to see the continu- cal and political factors that affect extraction of oil extracted from via e-mail by contacting: Rugby ambassador and a new kit for interest and involvement in the ity of youth rugby being played in the price path of oil. He contended shale rock, will continue to rise from [email protected] the team. game continues to spread rapidly the Middle East”, Lynne concludes.

KNES choir sings songs from around the world

n 22nd March 2015, the Choir pupils of Kuwait National English School, conducted by Mrs Adriana Cherciu, had an Ooutstanding performance for International Day. The theme of the musical was internationalism, where students sang beauti- ful songs from around the world. The message of unity, friendship and global citizenship which is part of our Schools Mission Statement was highlighted. The KNES Choir captivated the audi- ence with their amazing performance of songs, instruments and dance. The number of parents that attended was incredible and they have been immensely supportive of the children and the Choir. After the event many parents commented that they couldn’t believe how great the children were and how well they have progressed with their performing since being part of the Choir and they look forward to many more concerts in the future. TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 TV PROGRAMS

11:25 Gold Divers 13:30 Dog With A Blog 12:15 Alaska: The Last Frontier 13:55 Gravity Falls 13:05 Storage Hunters 14:20 H2O: Just Add Water 13:30 Dukes Of Haggle 14:55 Liv And Maddie 13:55 Storage Wars Canada 15:20 Binny And The Ghost 00:00 The Weakest Link 14:20 Alaska: The Last Frontier 15:45 Girl Meets World 00:35 Midsomer Murders 00:45 Eastenders 15:10 Wheeler Dealers 16:10 Violetta 02:00 Emmerdale 01:15 Doctors 16:00 Fast N’ Loud 17:00 Gravity Falls 02:25 Emmerdale 01:45 Pride And Prejudice 16:50 How It’s Made 17:25 Hank Zipzer 02:55 Coronation Street 02:40 Scott & Bailey 17:15 How It’s Made 17:50 Binny And The Ghost 03:25 The Doctor Blake Mysteries 03:25 Mistresses 17:40 Dynamo: Magician 18:15 Jessie 04:20 The Doctor Blake Mysteries 04:15 The Weakest Link Impossible 18:40 Liv And Maddie 05:15 The Chase 05:00 Teletubbies 18:30 Bear Grylls: Escape From 19:05 H2O: Just Add Water 06:00 Midsomer Murders 05:25 Show Me Show Me Hell 19:30 Violetta 07:30 The Doctor Blake Mysteries 05:45 Boogie Beebies 19:20 Survive That! 20:20 Binny And The Ghost 08:25 The Doctor Blake Mysteries 06:00 Gigglebiz 20:10 Dukes Of Haggle 20:45 H2O: Just Add Water 09:20 Coach Trip 06:15 Teletubbies 20:35 Storage Wars Canada 21:10 Good Luck Charlie 09:45 Coach Trip 06:40 Show Me Show Me 21:00 Bear Grylls: Escape From 21:35 Wizards Of Waverly Place 10:15 May The Best House Win 07:00 Boogie Beebies Hell 22:00 Wizards Of Waverly Place 11:10 Emmerdale 07:15 The Weakest Link 21:50 Survive That! 22:25 Sabrina: Secrets Of A 11:35 Emmerdale 08:00 The Stephen K Amos Show 22:40 Tethered Teenage Witch 12:00 Coronation Street 08:30 2 Point 4 Children 23:30 Dynamo: Magician 22:50 Sabrina: Secrets Of A 12:30 The Chase 09:00 Eastenders Impossible Teenage Witch 13:15 May The Best House Win 09:30 Doctors 23:10 Wolfblood 14:05 Midsomer Murders 10:00 Face Facts: The Truth About 23:35 Wolfblood 15:35 Coach Trip Botox 16:00 Coach Trip 10:50 The Weakest Link 16:30 Vera 11:35 The Cafe 18:20 The Chase 12:00 The Stephen K Amos Show 19:10 Coronation Street 12:30 2 Point 4 Children 00:05 How It’s Made 19:35 Coach Trip 13:00 Eastenders 00:30 Moon Machines 00:00 Christina Milian Turned Up 20:00 Coach Trip 13:30 Doctors 01:20 How Do They Do It? 00:30 Christina Milian Turned Up 20:30 Vera 14:00 BBC Proms 2011: Hooray 01:45 How Do They Do It? 00:55 The Soup 22:20 Coronation Street For Hollywood 02:10 Through The Wormhole With 01:25 Kourtney And Khloe Take 22:50 Emmerdale 15:55 The Stephen K Amos Show Morgan Freeman The Hamptons 23:15 Emmerdale 16:25 The Weakest Link 03:00 Food Factory 02:20 E! News 23:45 May The Best House Win 17:10 Eastenders 03:24 Food Factory 03:15 Escape Club 17:40 Doctors 03:48 Invent It Rich 04:10 Beyond Candid With 18:10 Drop Zone 04:36 Sport Science Giuliana 19:00 Hebburn 05:24 Moon Machines 05:05 Beyond Candid With 19:30 Jam And Jerusalem 06:12 How It’s Made Giuliana 20:00 Pride And Prejudice 06:36 How It’s Made 06:00 Keeping Up With The 20:55 Mistresses 07:00 Prank Science Kardashians 00:00 Wild Russia 21:45 Alan Partridge’s Mid-Morning 07:25 Gadget Show - World Tour 06:55 Keeping Up With The 01:00 Banged Up Abroad Matters 07:50 Superships Kardashians 02:00 Armageddon Outfitters 22:10 The Night Watch 08:40 Food Factory 07:50 Style Star 03:00 Megastructures 23:40 The Vicar Of Dibley 09:05 Food Factory 08:20 E! News 04:00 Money Meltdown 09:30 Invent It Rich 09:15 Giuliana & Bill 04:30 Money Meltdown 10:20 Moon Machines 10:15 Giuliana & Bill 05:00 Family Guns 11:10 How Do They Do It? 11:10 #RichKids Of Beverly Hills 06:00 Doomsday Preppers 11:35 How Do They Do It? 11:35 #RichKids Of Beverly Hills 07:00 Wild Indonesia 12:00 Prank Science 12:05 E! News 08:00 Wild Russia 12:25 Gadget Show - World Tour 13:05 Extreme Close-Up 09:00 Banged Up Abroad 00:00 Food Glorious Food 12:50 Superships 13:35 Beyond Candid With 10:00 Armageddon Outfitters 00:45 Come Dine With Me 13:40 How It’s Made Giuliana 11:00 Clash Of The Continents 01:35 Masterchef: The 14:05 How It’s Made 14:30 Style Star 12:00 Beyond Magic with DMC Professionals 14:30 Invent It Rich 15:00 Kourtney And Khloe Take 13:00 China’s Great Wall 02:25 Antiques Roadshow 15:20 Through The Wormhole With The Hamptons 14:00 America The Wild 03:20 Come Dine With Me Morgan Freeman 16:00 Keeping Up With The 15:00 Apocalypse: The Second 03:45 Beat My Build 16:10 How Do They Do It? Kardashians World War 04:30 Food Glorious Food 16:35 How Do They Do It? 17:00 Giuliana & Bill 16:00 Crash Science 05:20 Come Dine With Me 17:00 Moon Machines 18:00 Christina Milian Turned Up 17:00 Air Crash Investigation 06:05 Masterchef: The 17:50 Sport Science 18:30 Christina Milian Turned Up 18:00 Secrets Of The Tang Professionals 18:40 Food Factory 19:00 Beyond Candid With Treasure Ship 07:00 Antiques Roadshow 19:05 Food Factory Giuliana 19:00 Apocalypse: The Second 07:50 Come Dine With Me 19:30 Superhuman Science 20:00 Fashion Bloggers World War 08:15 Beat My Build 19:55 Superhuman Science 20:30 Fashion Bloggers 20:00 Crash Science 09:05 The Restaurant Inspector 20:20 The World’s Strangest UFO 21:00 House Of DVF 21:00 Air Crash Investigation 09:50 Come Dine With Me Stories 22:00 E! News 22:00 Secrets Of The Tang 10:40 Masterchef: The 21:10 How Do They Do It? 23:00 Keeping Up With The Treasure Ship Professionals 21:35 How Do They Do It? Kardashians 23:00 Clash Of The Continents 11:30 Antiques Roadshow 22:00 Superhuman Science 12:25 Come Dine With Me 22:25 Superhuman Science 12:50 Beat My Build 22:50 Through The Wormhole With 13:40 The Restaurant Inspector Morgan Freeman 14:25 Come Dine With Me 23:40 How It’s Made 15:15 Masterchef: The Professionals 00:30 Guy’s Big Bite 00:00 Enlisted 16:05 Antiques Roadshow 01:00 Barefoot Contessa - Back To 00:30 The Daily Show With Jon 17:00 Come Dine With Me Basics Stewart 17:25 Beat My Build 01:30 Barefoot Contessa - Back To 01:00 Last Week Tonight With John 18:15 Beat My Build Basics Oliver 19:05 Rachel Khoo’s Kitchen 00:00 Violetta 02:00 Jenny Morris Cooks Morocco 01:35 Girls SIN CITY- A DAME TO KILL FOR ON OSN MOVIES HD Notebook: Cosmo Cook 00:45 The Hive 02:30 Jenny Morris Cooks Morocco 02:00 Veep 19:30 Bill’s Kitchen: Notting Hill 00:50 Sabrina: Secrets Of A 03:00 Guy’s Big Bite 02:30 Togetherness 03:30 Guy’s Grocery Games 03:00 Cristela 04:00 Kill Em All-PG15 Escape From Paradise 10:10 Little People, Big World 05:50 Mouk 20:00 Baking Made Easy Teenage Witch 06:00 Shadow Conspiracy-PG15 14:30 Quest For A Heart 10:35 Extreme Couponing 06:00 Jungle Junction 20:25 Masterchef: The 01:15 Sabrina: Secrets Of A 04:30 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives 03:30 Melissa & Joey 05:00 Chopped 04:00 Two And A Half Men 08:00 Appleseed: Alpha-PG15 16:00 Barbie And The Magic Of 11:00 Toddlers & Tiaras 06:10 Art Attack Professionals Teenage Witch 10:00 Ninja: Shadow Of A Tear Pegasus 11:50 Cake Boss 06:35 Julius Jr. 21:20 Antiques Roadshow 01:40 Wolfblood 06:00 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives 04:30 The Tonight Show Starring 06:30 Siba’s Table Jimmy Fallon 12:00 Kill Em All-PG15 18:00 Oggy & The Cockroaches: 12:40 Randy To The Rescue 06:45 Calimero 22:10 Come Dine With Me 02:05 Wolfblood 14:00 Shadow Conspiracy-PG15 The Movie 13:30 Oprah’s Lifeclass 07:00 Jungle Junction 22:35 Baking Mad With Eric 02:30 Violetta 07:00 Roadtrip With G. Garvin 06:30 My Boys 07:30 Roadtrip With G. Garvin 07:00 Late Night With Seth Meyers 16:00 Knockout-PG15 20:00 Garfield’s Pet Force 14:20 Oprah’s Master Class 07:15 Zou Lanlard 03:15 The Hive 18:00 Ninja: Shadow Of A Tear- 22:00 Quest For A Heart 15:10 Cake Boss 07:30 Calimero 23:00 Beat My Build 03:20 Sabrina: Secrets Of A 08:00 Chopped 08:00 Two And A Half Men 09:00 Barefoot Contessa - Back To 09:00 Cristela PG15 23:30 Barbie And The Magic Of 15:35 Little People, Big World 07:45 Loopdidoo 23:50 Rachel Khoo’s Kitchen Teenage Witch 20:00 Red Sky-PG15 Pegasus 16:00 Toddlers & Tiaras 08:00 Limon And Oli Notebook: Cosmo Cook 03:45 Sabrina: Secrets Of A Basics 09:30 About A Boy 09:30 Farm Kings 10:30 My Boys 22:00 Dragonwolf-PG15 16:50 Say Yes To The Dress 08:10 Jake And The Never Land Teenage Witch 17:15 Something Borrowed, Pirates 04:10 Wolfblood 10:30 The Big Eat... 11:00 The Tonight Show Starring 11:00 Mexican Made Easy Jimmy Fallon Something New 08:35 Doc McStuffins 04:35 Wolfblood 17:40 18 Kids And Counting 09:05 Art Attack 05:00 Violetta 11:30 Chopped 12:30 Two And A Half Men 12:30 Siba’s Table 13:00 My Boys 18:05 Extreme Couponing 09:30 Mickey Mouse Clubhouse 05:45 The Hive 00:00 Isa-PG15 18:30 Driving Me Crazy 13:00 Guy’s Big Bite 13:30 My Boys 00:00 Ass Backwards 10:00 Sofia The First 05:50 Mouk 02:00 The Philly Kid-PG15 19:20 Kate Plus 8 00:20 Fast N’ Loud 13:30 Guy’s Big Bite 14:00 Melissa & Joey 02:00 In A World... 10:25 Sheriff Callie’s Wild West 06:00 Dog With A Blog 04:00 The Hunger Games: 20:10 Randy To The Rescue 01:10 Gold Rush 14:00 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives 14:30 About A Boy 04:00 Oscar 10:55 Calimero 06:25 Binny And The Ghost Catching Fire-PG15 21:00 The Undateables 02:00 Gold Divers 14:30 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives 15:30 The Daily Show With Jon 06:00 Three Men And A Baby 11:10 Cars Toons 06:50 Girl Meets World 06:00 Mr. Peabody & Sherman- 21:50 Tina Malone: Pregnant At 50 02:50 Alaska: The Last Frontier 15:00 Guy’s Grocery Games Stewart 08:00 Run For Your Wife 11:15 Calimero 07:15 H2O: Just Add Water FAM 22:40 America’s Worst Tattoos 03:40 Storage Hunters 16:00 Chopped 17:00 Late Night With Seth Meyers 10:00 Se Puder... Dirija! 11:30 Calimero 07:40 Jessie 08:00 Pacific Rim-PG15 23:05 90 Days To Wed 04:05 Dukes Of Haggle 17:00 Guy’s Big Bite 18:00 Community 12:00 Oscar 11:45 Calimero 08:05 Wizards Of Waverly Place 10:15 Turbo-PG 23:55 The Undateables 04:30 Storage Wars Canada 17:30 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives 18:30 Melissa & Joey 14:00 In A World... 11:55 Calimero 08:30 Austin & Ally 12:00 The Hunger Games: 12:10 Calimero 05:00 How It’s Made 08:55 Dog With A Blog 18:00 Siba’s Table 19:00 The Simpsons 16:00 Run For Your Wife Catching Fire-PG15 05:30 How It’s Made 18:30 The Big Eat... 19:30 Marry Me 18:00 It’s A Disaster 12:25 Lucky Duck 09:20 Binny And The Ghost 14:00 Ong Bak 3-PG15 13:15 Mickey Mouse Clubhouse 06:00 Alaska: The Last Frontier 09:45 Girl Meets World 19:00 Chopped 20:00 The Tonight Show Starring 19:30 Every Day 15:45 Pacific Rim-PG15 06:50 Wheeler Dealers 20:00 Guy’s Grocery Games Jimmy Fallon 21:30 Welcome To The Jungle 14:05 Mickey Mouse Clubhouse 10:10 Liv And Maddie 18:00 Ender’s Game-PG15 14:40 Mickey Mouse Clubhouse 07:40 Fast N’ Loud 10:30 Cars Toons 21:00 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives 21:00 The Daily Show With Jon 23:15 3 Geezers! 20:00 I, Frankenstein-PG15 08:30 Storage Hunters 21:30 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives Stewart 15:10 Mickey Mouse Clubhouse 10:35 Cinderella 22:00 Lockout-PG15 03:00 Extreme Forensics 08:55 Dukes Of Haggle 21:50 Man Fire Food 21:30 Hot In Cleveland 16:05 Lilo & Stitch 11:50 Sofia The First 03:45 Dates From Hell 09:20 Storage Wars Canada 22:00 Man Fire Food 22:00 The League 16:30 Adventures Of The 12:15 Sofia The First 04:07 Dates From Hell 09:45 How It’s Made 22:30 Man Fire Food 22:30 Veep Gummi Bears 12:40 The Adventures Of Disney 04:30 I Faked My Own Death 10:10 How It’s Made 23:00 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives 23:00 South Park 17:00 Chip n Dale Rescue Fairies 05:20 True Crime With 10:35 Gold Rush 23:30 Chopped 23:30 Late Night With Seth Meyers 01:00 The Last Days On Mars- 00:00 LPGA Tour Rangers 13:05 Good Luck Charlie PG15 04:30 ICC Cricket 360 Aphrodite Jones 17:25 Ducktales 03:00 I Will Follow You Into The 05:00 NRL Premiership 06:10 On The Case With Paula 18:00 Art Attack Dark-PG15 07:00 Golfing World Zahn 18:30 Sofia The First 05:00 The Trouble With Bliss-PG15 08:00 LPGA Tour 07:00 Deadly Affairs 18:55 Calimero 08:00 C.S.I. 07:00 Peace, Love & 12:30 Super Rugby Highlights 07:50 Fatal Encounters 19:05 Cars Toons 12:00 Emmerdale Misunderstanding-PG15 15:30 Volvo Ocean Race 08:40 Murder Shift 19:10 Limon And Oli 12:30 Coronation Street 09:00 Safe Haven-PG15 19:00 NRL Full Time 09:30 I Was Murdered 19:25 Jake And The Never Land 14:00 C.S.I. 11:00 The Trouble With Bliss-PG15 20:00 AFL Premiership Highlights 09:55 Stalked: Someone’s Pirates 16:00 Emmerdale 13:00 Christmas Magic-PG15 21:00 Super Rugby Highlights Watching 19:50 Mickey Mouse Clubhouse 16:30 Coronation Street 15:00 Stolen Child-PG15 10:20 Forensic Detectives 20:20 Sofia The First 18:00 C.S.I. 17:00 Safe Haven-PG15 11:10 True Crime With 20:50 Adventures Of The 19:00 Criminal Minds 19:00 Collaborator-PG15 Aphrodite Jones Gummi Bears 20:00 Bones 21:00 The Letter-PG15 12:00 Blood Relatives 21:15 Chip n Dale Rescue 21:00 The Voice 23:00 Killing Season-18 03:00 Live WWE Raw 12:50 On The Case With Paula Rangers 23:00 Hannibal 07:00 IRB Sevens World Series Zahn 21:45 Ducktales 10:00 NRL Premiership 13:40 Who On Earth... 22:15 Art Attack 12:00 Golfing World 14:05 Who On Earth... 22:40 Limon And Oli 13:00 PGA Tour Highlights 14:30 True Crime With 22:50 Henry Hugglemonster 15:00 WWE Raw Aphrodite Jones 23:05 Zou 01:30 Yellow Rock 18:00 WWE Experience 15:20 I Was Murdered 23:20 Mouk 03:30 Atlas Shrugged 19:00 WWE Afterburn 15:45 Stalked: Someone’s 23:35 Jungle Junction 01:00 Good Morning America 05:30 Dead Poets Society 20:00 WWE Raw Watching 23:50 Art Attack 03:00 Grimm 08:00 Close Encounters Of The 23:30 IRB Sevens World Series 16:10 Murder Shift 00:15 Julius Jr. 04:00 The Strain Third Kind: Directors Cut 17:00 Blood Relatives 00:30 Calimero 05:00 Good Morning America 10:30 Heart Of The Country 17:50 Fatal Encounters 00:45 Henry Hugglemonster 07:00 Emmerdale 12:00 Dead Poets Society 18:40 Forensic Detectives 01:00 Zou 07:30 Coronation Street 14:15 The Last Harbor 19:30 On The Case With Paula 01:15 Jungle Junction 09:00 Parenthood 16:00 Close Encounters Of The 18:00 ICC World Cup H/L: PAK v Zahn 01:25 Art Attack 10:00 Emmerdale Third Kind: Directors Cut UAE 20:20 The Will 01:50 Julius Jr. 10:30 Coronation Street 18:30 As Good As It Gets 19:00 ICC World Cup H/L: PAK v 21:10 Who On Earth... 02:00 Calimero 12:00 Sleepy Hollow 21:00 The Invisible Woman SA 21:35 Who On Earth... 02:15 Henry Hugglemonster 13:00 The Fosters 23:00 Carrington 20:00 ICC World Cup H/L: IRE v 22:00 Stalked: Someone’s 02:25 Zou 14:00 Live Good Morning America PAK Watching 02:40 Mouk 16:00 Parenthood 21:00 ICC Cricket 360 22:25 Stalked: Someone’s 02:50 Jungle Junction 17:00 Sleepy Hollow 21:30 ICC World Cup H/L : 1ST Watching 18:00 The Fosters Semi Final 22:50 Deadly Sins 19:00 Parenthood 01:00 Welcome To The Punch- 22:30 ICC World Cup H/L : 2ND 23:40 Dates From Hell 20:00 Covert Affairs PG15 Semi Final 00:05 Dates From Hell 21:00 The Fosters 03:00 The Hot Flashes-PG15 00:30 Fatal Encounters 22:00 Grimm 05:00 Inescapable-PG15 01:20 Disappeared 07:00 The 7:39-PG15 02:10 Stalked: Someone’s 00:20 Predator Battleground 09:00 All Is Lost-PG15 Watching 01:10 Secrets Of The Desert 11:00 Getaway-PG15 02:35 Stalked: Someone’s Elephants 13:00 Inescapable-PG15 Watching 02:00 Black Mamba: Kiss Of 15:00 Quartet-PG15 Death 00:00 The Terminator 00:45 Secret Eskimo Escape 17:00 All Is Lost-PG15 02:50 Dangerous Encounters 02:00 The Collection 01:35 America’s Worst Tattoos 19:00 Escape Plan-PG15 03:45 Python Hunters 04:00 Crimson Tide 02:00 90 Days To Wed 23:00 Sin City: A Dame To Kill For 04:40 Caught In The Act 06:00 Kill Em All 02:50 Say Yes To The Dress 05:35 Black Mamba: Kiss Of 08:00 Shadow Conspiracy 03:15 Something Borrowed, Death 10:00 Appleseed: Alpha Something New 06:30 Dangerous Encounters 12:00 Ninja: Shadow Of A Tear 03:40 Driving Me Crazy 03:00 Art Attack 07:25 Python Hunters 14:00 Kill Em All 04:30 Cake Boss 03:25 Julius Jr. 08:20 Yukon Vet 16:00 Shadow Conspiracy 05:00 Little People, Big World 03:35 Calimero 01:00 Barbie As Rapunzel 09:15 Outback Wrangler 18:00 Knockout 05:30 Extreme Couponing 03:50 Henry Hugglemonster 10:10 Killer Shots 20:00 Ninja: Shadow Of A Tear 02:45 A Turtle’s Tale 2: Sammy’s 06:00 17 Kids And Counting 04:00 Zou Escape From Paradise 11:05 Wild Survivor 22:00 Red Sky 06:25 Randy To The Rescue 04:15 Mouk 12:00 Hooked 04:30 Little Gobie 07:15 Say Yes To The Dress 04:25 Jungle Junction 06:00 Cinderella 12:55 Africa’s Blood River 07:40 Something Borrowed, 04:35 Art Attack 13:50 Dangerous Encounters 08:00 Hammer Boy Something New 05:00 Julius Jr. 10:00 Oggy & The Cockroaches: 14:45 Python Hunters 08:05 Cake Boss 05:10 Calimero 15:40 Yukon Vet The Movie 08:55 Secrets Of The High Street 05:25 Henry Hugglemonster 00:00 The Collection-18 11:30 Jelly T 16:35 Outback Wrangler 02:00 Crimson Tide-PG15 09:20 Secrets Of The High Street 05:35 Zou 17:30 Killer Shots NINJA- SHADOW OF A TEAR ON OSN MOVIES ACTION 13:00 A Turtle’s Tale 2: Sammy’s 09:45 Cake Boss Classifieds

TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015

Kuwait KNCC PROGRAMME FROM THURSDAY TO WEDNESDAY (02/04/2015 TO 08/04/2015)

SHARQIA-1 HOME 4:45 PM CINDERELLA 12:05 AM FAST & FURIOUS 7 6:30 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 12:15 PM QOT WA FAR (Arabic) 6:45 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 9:30 PM CINDERELLA 3:00 PM QOT WA FAR (Arabic) 8:45 PM AVENUES-4 FAST & FURIOUS 7 12:30 AM CINDERELLA 5:15 PM THE CANAL 10:45 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 1:15 PM CINDERELLA 7:30 PM THE CANAL 12:45 AM FAST & FURIOUS 7 4:15 PM 360º- 1 CINDERELLA 9:45 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 7:15 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 12:00 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 12:05 AM FANAR-4 FAST & FURIOUS 7 10:15 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 3:00 PM HOME -3D 11:30 AM Special Show “FAST & FURIOUS 7” 10:15 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 6:00 PM SHARQIA-2 FAST & FURIOUS 7 1:30 PM THE GUNMAN 1:00 AM FAST & FURIOUS 7 9:00 PM HOME -3D 11:45 AM FAST & FURIOUS 7 4:15 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 12:05 AM FAST & FURIOUS 7 1:45 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 7:00 PM AVENUES-5 FAST & FURIOUS 7 4:30 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 9:45 PM CINDERELLA 12:30 PM 360º- 2 FAST & FURIOUS 7 7:15 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 12:30 AM CINDERELLA 3:00 PM RUN ALL NIGHT 11:45 AM FAST & FURIOUS 7 10:00 PM Special Show “FAST & FURIOUS 7” 2:45 PM RUN ALL NIGHT 2:15 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 12:45 AM FANAR-5 CINDERELLA 5:30 PM RUN ALL NIGHT 4:45 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 12:30 PM CINDERELLA 8:00 PM THE GUNMAN 7:15 PM SHARQIA-3 FAST & FURIOUS 7 3:15 PM NO FRI+WED Special Show “FAST & FURIOUS 7 “ 7:15 PM THE CANAL 12:30 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 6:00 PM Special Show “FAST & FURIOUS 7” 7:45 PM RUN ALL NIGHT 9:45 PM HOME 2:30 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 8:45 PM Special Show “HOME” 7:45 PM RUN ALL NIGHT 12:15 AM PAPER PLANES 4:30 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 11:30 PM RUN ALL NIGHT 10:30 PM HOME 6:30 PM RUN ALL NIGHT 1:00 AM 360º- 3 PAPER PLANES 8:30 PM MARINA-1 THE DIVERGENT SERIES: INSURGENT 12:00 PM THE CANAL 10:30 PM CINDERELLA 11:30 AM AVENUES-6 THE DIVERGENT SERIES: INSURGENT 2:30 PM THE CANAL 12:30 AM CINDERELLA 1:45 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 11:30 AM THE DIVERGENT SERIES: INSURGENT 5:00 PM CINDERELLA 4:00 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 2:30 PM THE DIVERGENT SERIES: INSURGENT 7:30 PM MUHALAB-1 CINDERELLA 6:15 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 5:30 PM Special Show “FAST & FURIOUS 7” 7:30 PM CHANGE OF NAME MATRIMONIAL FAST & FURIOUS 7 12:00 PM CINDERELLA 8:45 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 8:30 PM THE DIVERGENT SERIES: INSURGENT 10:00 PM CINDERELLA 2:30 PM THE CANAL 11:00 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 11:30 PM THE DIVERGENT SERIES: INSURGENT 12:30 AM I, Mrs. Shaik Nazneen W/o Nair boy M.Sc (N) 30y/184 CINDERELLA 4:45 PM THE CANAL 1:00 AM Madanapalle Humayun, cms Avittam CINDERELLA 7:00 PM AVENUES-7 AL-KOUT.1 holder of Indian Passport Sudhajathakam working in CINDERELLA 9:15 PM MARINA-2 FAST & FURIOUS 7 12:45 PM HOME -3D 11:30 AM No. K4164142, hereby Kuwait MOH preferring girls FAST & FURIOUS 7 11:45 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 1:00 PM THEEB (Arabic) 3:30 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 1:30 PM change my name to working in Kuwait contact: FAST & FURIOUS 7 3:45 PM THEEB (Arabic) 5:45 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 4:15 PM Madanapalle Nazneen. [email protected] THEEB (Arabic) 8:00 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 7:00 PM MUHALAB-2 FAST & FURIOUS 7 6:30 PM (C 4960) (C 4961) HOME 11:30 AM FAST & FURIOUS 7 9:15 PM Special Show “FAST & FURIOUS 7” 8:00 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 9:45 PM 5-4-2015 5-4-2015 THE CANAL 1:30 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 12:05 AM THEEB (Arabic) 10:15 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 12:30 AM HOME 3:30 PM THEEB (Arabic) 10:30 PM HOME 5:30 PM MARINA-3 THEEB (Arabic) 12:30 AM AL-KOUT.2 I, NJOKU CHINWEOKE FOR SALE RUN ALL NIGHT 7:30 PM THE CANAL 11:30 AM PAPER PLANES 11:30 AM IHEYINWA from Imo State THE CANAL 10:00 PM THE CANAL 1:30 PM AVENUES-8 THE CANAL 1:30 PM Nigeria with Passport Mitsubishi Lancer Fortis - THE CANAL 12:05 AM HOME -3D 3:30 PM PAPER PLANES 1:00 PM PAPER PLANES 3:30 PM Number A02398494 do 2013, silver color, excellent HOME 5:30 PM PAPER PLANES 3:15 PM PAPER PLANES 5:45 PM hereby change my name to condition, km 11000, KD MUHALAB-3 FAST & FURIOUS 7 7:30 PM PAPER PLANES 5:30 PM THEEB (Arabic) 8:00 PM ONONAJI CHINWEOKE 1900. Mob: 97868418. FAST & FURIOUS 7 1:15 PM RUN ALL NIGHT 10:15 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 8:00 PM QOT WA FAR (Arabic) 10:00 PM IHEYINWA. (C 4962) FAST & FURIOUS 7 4:00 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 12:45 AM Special Show “FAST & FURIOUS 7” 8:00 PM THE CANAL 12:05 AM 1-4-2015 5-4-2015 FAST & FURIOUS 7 6:45 PM PAPER PLANES 11:00 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 9:30 PM AVENUES-1 EX MACHINA 1:00 AM AL-KOUT.3 FAST & FURIOUS 7 12:15 AM PAPER PLANES 11:30 AM THE CANAL 11:30 AM THE PUBLIC AUTHORITY THE DIVERGENT SERIES: INSURGENT 1:30 PM AVENUES-9 CINDERELLA 1:30 PM FANAR-1 RUN ALL NIGHT 4:00 PM HOME 11:30 AM CINDERELLA 3:45 PM FOR CIVIL INFORMATION BONTA 11:45 AM THE DIVERGENT SERIES: INSURGENT 6:30 PM HOME -3D 1:30 PM CINDERELLA 6:00 PM Automated enquiry about PAPER PLANES 1:45 PM RUN ALL NIGHT 9:00 PM HOME 3:45 PM CINDERELLA 8:15 PM BONTA 3:45 PM THE DIVERGENT SERIES: INSURGENT 11:30 PM HOME -3D 6:00 PM THEEB (Arabic) 10:30 PM the Civil ID card is PAPER PLANES 5:45 PM HOME 8:15 PM THE CANAL 12:45 AM PAPER PLANES 7:45 PM AVENUES-2 THE GUNMAN 10:30 PM RUN ALL NIGHT 9:45 PM THE CANAL 11:45 AM THE GUNMAN 12:45 AM AL-KOUT.4 1889988 RUN ALL NIGHT 12:30 AM THE CANAL 1:45 PM HOME 12:15 PM THE CANAL 4:00 PM AVENUES-10 HOME 2:45 PM Prayer timings FANAR-2 THE CANAL 6:15 PM BONTA 12:00 PM HOME 4:45 PM CINDERELLA 12:15 PM THE CANAL 8:30 PM BONTA 2:00 PM RUN ALL NIGHT 6:45 PM Fajr: 04:10 CINDERELLA 2:30 PM THE CANAL 10:45 PM BONTA 4:00 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 9:15 PM CINDERELLA 5:00 PM THE CANAL 1:00 AM QOT WA FAR (Arabic) 6:15 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 11:45 PM Shorook 05:31 CINDERELLA 7:15 PM QOT WA FAR (Arabic) 8:30 PM Duhr: 11:51 CINDERELLA 9:30 PM AVENUES-3 QOT WA FAR (Arabic) 10:45 PM BAIRAQ-1 CINDERELLA 12:05 AM CINDERELLA 11:30 AM FAST & FURIOUS 7 12:45 AM FAST & FURIOUS 7 1:00 PM Asr: 15:23 CINDERELLA 2:00 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 3:45 PM FANAR-3 CINDERELLA 4:30 PM AVENUES-11 FAST & FURIOUS 7 6:30 PM Maghrib: 18:09 THE CANAL 12:45 PM CINDERELLA 7:00 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 12:30 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 9:15 PM HOME 2:45 PM CINDERELLA 9:30 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 3:30 PM FAST & FURIOUS 7 12:05 AM Isha: 19:28

Directorate General of Civil Aviation Home Page (www.kuwait-airport.com.kw)

Arrival Flights on Tuesday 7/4/2015 FDB 057 Dubai 14:30 Departure Flights on Tuesday 7/4/2015 KAC 673 Dubai 15:00 Airlines Flt Route Time GFA 221 Bahrain 15:00 Airlines Flt Route Time QTR 1079 Doha 15:05 JAI 574 Mumbai 00:10 KAC 788 Jeddah 15:10 AIC 976 Goa/Chennai 00:05 FDB 058 Dubai 15:10 JZR 239 Amman 00:25 OMA 645 Muscat 15:25 BBC 044 Dhaka 00:40 KAC 617 Doha 15:15 JZR 267 Beirut 00:30 ABY 127 Sharjah 15:45 PIA 206 Lahore 00:40 KNE 473 Jeddah 15:20 JZR 539 Cairo 00:40 UAE 857 Dubai 15:45 FDB 072 Dubai 00:45 SVA 501 Jeddah 15:45 GFA 222 Bahrain 15:45 KLM 411 Amsterdam/Dammam 00:40 FDB 051 Dubai 16:00 JAI 573 Mumbai 01:10 KAC 773 Riyadh 15:50 THY 772 Istanbul 00:45 KLM 411 Amsterdam 01:55 NIA 251 Alexandria 16:15 OMA 646 Muscat 16:25 FDB 069 Dubai 00:55 KAC 562 Amman 16:20 DLH 635 Frankfurt 02:15 ABY 128 Sharjah 16:25 QTR 1084 Doha 01:00 QTR 1072 Doha 16:40 ETH 621 Addis Ababa 02:45 FDB 052 Dubai 17:00 PGT 858 Istanbul 01:35 RJA 640 Amman 16:55 THY 773 Istanbul 02:55 KAC 741 Dammam 17:00 ETH 620 Addis Ababa 01:45 ETD 303 Abu Dhabi 16:55 PGT 859 Istanbul 03:25 JZR 266 Beirut 17:05 GFA 211 Bahrain 02:30 UAL 982 IAD 17:05 UAE 854 Dubai 03:50 NIA 252 Alexandria 17:15 UAE 853 Dubai 02:35 SVA 510 Riyadh 17:15 FDB 068 Dubai 03:55 QTR 1073 Doha 17:40 JAI 526 Chennai/Abu Dhabi 02:50 GFA 215 Bahrain 17:30 ETD 306 Abu Dhabi 04:05 UAE 858 Dubai 17:45 FDB 067 Dubai 02:55 JZR 777 Jeddah 17:55 MSR 613 Cairo 04:10 JZR 538 Cairo 17:45 RJA 648 Amman 03:05 UAE 875 Dubai 18:00 KKK 6508 Istanbul 04:10 ETD 304 Abu Dhabi 17:50 MSR 612 Cairo 03:10 TAR 328 Tunis/Dubai 18:05 QTR 1085 Doha 04:30 RJA 641 Amman 17:55 ETD 305 Abu Dhabi 03:10 JZR 177 Dubai 18:20 MSC 406 Sohag 05:05 SVA 511 Riyadh 18:15 KKK 6507 Istanbul 03:20 FDB 063 Dubai 18:40 QTR 1077 Doha 05:15 UAL 982 Bahrain 18:20 QTR 1076 Doha 03:45 ABY 121 Sharjah 18:40 THY 765 Istanbul 05:40 GFA 216 Bahrain 18:20 JZR 184 Dubai 18:40 MSC 401 Alexandria 04:05 KAC 786 Jeddah 18:45 FDB 070 Dubai 06:30 JZR 238 Amman 18:50 THY 770 Istanbul 05:35 QTR 1080 Doha 18:50 JAI 525 Abu Dhabi/Chennai 06:35 TAR 328 Tunis 18:55 DHX 170 Bahrain 05:40 KAC 774 Riyadh 19:15 JZR 164 Dubai 06:55 JZR 134 Bahrain 19:10 BAW 157 London 06:40 KAC 618 Doha 19:15 RJA 649 Amman 07:05 ABY 122 Sharjah 19:20 KAC 416 Kuala Lumpur/Jakarta 06:45 AXB 393 Kozhikode 19:15 JZR 560 Sohag 07:10 UAE 876 Dubai 19:40 KAC 412 Manila/Bangkok 07:10 KAC 542 Cairo 19:25 GFA 212 Bahrain 07:15 QTR 1081 Doha 19:50 FDB 053 Dubai 07:45 KAC 678 Muscat/Abu Dhabi 19:25 THY 771 Istanbul 07:30 FDB 064 Dubai 19:55 QTR 1086 Doha 07:50 KAC 674 Dubai 19:25 FDB 054 Dubai 08:25 AXB 393 Kozhikode 20:15 THY 6776 Istanbul 07:50 GFA 217 Bahrain 19:30 BAW 156 London 08:45 GFA 218 Bahrain 20:15 SVA 512 Riyadh 07:55 KAC 166 Paris/Rome 19:40 QTR 1087 Doha 08:50 KAC 283 Dhaka 20:30 KAC 352 Kochi 08:10 KAC 104 London 19:55 SVA 513 Riyadh 08:55 KAC 361 Colombo 20:50 KAC 382 Delhi 08:15 KAC 742 Dammam 20:00 KAC 513 Tehran 08:55 KAC 343 Chennai 20:55 KAC 302 Mumbai 08:20 JAI 572 Mumbai 20:00 THY 6776 Dubai 09:20 JAI 571 Mumbai 21:00 KAC 206 Islamabad 08:25 MSR 618 Alexandria 20:05 KAC 787 Jeddah 09:25 OMA 648 Muscat 21:05 KAC 332 Trivandrum 08:30 OMA 647 Muscat 20:05 KAC 671 Dubai 09:25 MSR 607 Luxor 21:05 UAE 855 Dubai 08:40 FDB 061 Dubai 20:20 ABY 126 Sharjah 09:40 GFA 047 Istanbul 21:15 ABY 125 Sharjah 09:00 GFA 047 Bahrain 20:30 KAC 101 London/New York 09:50 KAC 351 Kochi 21:15 KAC 282 Dhaka 09:20 DLH 636 Frankfurt 20:50 UAE 856 Dubai 09:55 FDB 062 Dubai 21:20 ETD 301 Abu Dhabi 09:20 ALK 229 Colombo 21:10 ETD 302 Abu Dhabi 10:20 DLH 636 Dammam 21:35 FDB 055 Dubai 09:40 MEA 402 Beirut 21:20 KAC 561 Amman 10:25 DHX 171 Bahrain 21:50 QTR 1070 Doha 10:00 ETD 307 Abu Dhabi 21:30 FDB 056 Dubai 10:35 KAC 381 Delhi 22:00 IRA 675 Lar 10:40 FDB 073 Dubai 21:35 QTR 1071 Doha 11:00 ALK 230 Colombo 22:10 ETD 308 Abu Dhabi 22:15 GFA 213 Bahrain 10:40 UAE 859 Dubai 21:40 KAC 165 Rome/Paris 11:15 KAC 301 Mumbai 22:15 UAE 873 Dubai 11:00 GFA 219 Bahrain 21:45 GFA 214 Bahrain 11:25 MEA 403 Beirut 22:20 MSC 405 Sohag 11:25 QTR 1074 Doha 21:55 IRA 674 Lar 11:40 KAC 203 Lahore 22:20 JZR 165 Dubai 11:30 JZR 135 Bahrain 22:05 KAC 541 Cairo 12:05 FDB 074 Dubai 22:30 MEA 404 Beirut 11:55 KAC 677 Abu Dhabi/Muscat 12:20 UAL 981 Bahrain 22:10 GFA 220 Bahrain 22:30 UAE 871 Dubai 12:50 ETD 309 Abu Dhabi 22:15 JZR 776 Jeddah 12:20 UAE 860 Dubai 22:50 MSR 610 Cairo 13:00 KLM 415 Amsterdam 22:15 MSC 402 Alexandria 12:25 KAC 205 Islamabad 22:55 KAC 514 Tehran 13:10 FDB 059 Dubai 22:30 UAE 874 Dubai 12:30 ETD 310 Abu Dhabi 23:00 JZR 561 Sohag 13:45 PIA 239 Sialkot 22:35 MEA 405 Beirut 12:55 QTR 1075 Doha 23:05 KAC 672 Dubai 13:55 AIC 981 Chennai/Hyderabad/Ahmedabad 22:45 KAC 785 Jeddah 13:00 KLM 415 Dammam/Amsterdam 23:15 QTR 1078 Doha 14:05 JZR 185 Dubai 23:15 JZR 176 Dubai 13:45 KAC 411 Bangkok/Manila 23:30 KNE 472 Jeddah 14:25 THY 764 Istanbul 23:35 MSR 611 Cairo 14:00 PIA 240 Sialkot 23:35 SVA 500 Jeddah 14:30 FDB 071 Dubai 23:45 UAE 872 Dubai 14:15 FDB 060 Dubai 23:55 DIAL161 FOR AIRPORT INFORMATION stars34 TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 CROSSWORD 865 STAR TRACK

Aries (March 21-April 19) Libra (September 23-October 22)

Today, your sensitivity to the needs of others is strong and your curiosity to This is a great day to get things done, whether you are alone or with others- know how other people move through their lives gives you the motivation to study psy- especially if you lead. State your agenda logically and even those who may disagree will chology or sociology to satisfy your curiosity. Continuing education courses in a junior col- respect you. Strong-minded persons are attracted to you and you to them. You may feel intel- lege can get you a few answers that will help you know if you want to further your studies. lectually competitive and could become irritated by trivialities. If you remember your priori- This is a good time to visit the library and, work or no, there is always time to browse ties, it can be a productive day. After a full day at work, there is a need to return to that warm through a few stacks of books; perhaps this afternoon. You should find it a good day to and secure feeling you get in your home and with your family. Nurture yourself by doing work and communicate with members of the opposite sex. Business dealings may be par- something for someone else this afternoon. Communication with a long-distance relative or ticularly fruitful. Your power to effect positive change is greater than you imagine at this friend is encouraging this evening-you should think about visiting with this person more time. Enjoy. often, even if he or she is out of town.

Taurus (April 20-May 20) Scorpio (October 23-November 21)

Progressive people and optimistic groups or concepts play an important role Working with a co-worker you may detect a problem that was previously over- in your life this week. You have an opportunity to network about your business or business looked. Do not keep this to yourself, thinking you are saving time and nobody will notice- interests during the lunch break today. Networking is a good idea. You are sure to make somebody will. Bring the mistake to your co-worker’s attention so that both of you can find some new friends as well as a few business contacts. Direct your energy toward some cre- an answer and receive credit for the correction. Your co-workers will appreciate your team ative project this afternoon that gives plenty of room for self-expression. It could be very attitude. You feel good today, as well as having lots of enthusiasm. Be sure to take your breaks satisfying. Luck is certainly with you now and good things are bound to happen. You relate and if the weather is good, a walk will help you gain a focus, if that is needed. Work runs well to others in social surroundings this afternoon. A last-minute reminder to pick up a gift smoothly in the afternoon. This is not the time to gamble, although games of chance just for for a friend may cause a delay in your plans this afternoon but it is important to follow practice can be a lot of fun. This evening you may find yourself playing some fun games with through with this errand. a loved one-for fun.

Gemini (May 21-June 20) Sagittarius (November 22-December 21) Time and a little extra passion are available now to sort out some of those rela- If you give your best effort now, success is certain to follow, particularly in the tionship problems you have pushed aside until another day. Better deal with workplace. The environment slows you down a little today, making you realistic about your them or they could make you irritable. The more positive you keep your thinking, the more ACROSS 4. The vertical dimension of extension. abilities and expectations for success. Your nature will most likely be stoical, as you take a positive the outcome of the subject matter. This may also be a good time to evaluate your 1. Pompous or pretentious talk or writing. 5. Of or relating to the stars or constella- serious attitude to just about all aspects of your life. A new control method for the inventory standing at work or in your profession. You should not hesitate to engage in new ideas or 5. A metal urn with a spigot at the base. tions. may come to your attention and you have smart ideas about merging the system with your undertake original projects during this time-just as long as all the facts are known. You will find 12. (informal) Of the highest quality. 6. An obsolete name for nitrogen. company’s own system. The new methods will make a time element faster and more effi- that your input regarding projects with co-workers or helpful suggestions to the frustrated 15. A river in northern England that flows 7. The month following April and preceding cient. The move to try this system on a trial basis may be the best move. Enjoy an early din- customer becomes the positive result of the day. Co-worker peers or customers come to you southeast through West Yorkshire. June. ner with your special someone this evening or invite your friends over for a neighborhood as return business-they need your proficiency. 16. The god who fathered the islands and 8. A member of the Iroquoian people for- planning session. gods of Japan with his sister Izanami. merly living east of Lake Ontario. 17. Someone who is morally reprehensible. 9. Artists or writers whose ideas are ahead 18. Medium-sized tree having glossy lance- of their time. Cancer (June 21-July 22) Capricorn (December 22-January 19) olate leaves. 10. A soft white precious univalent metallic 19. A man who is the senior member of a element having the highest electrical and It may be hard to muster up the energy to dive into today’s workload. However, as It may seem that your emotions play a part in your dealings with others today. This group. thermal conductivity of any metal. you get into the rhythm of the day, you will find success. You will be finished with the day before can cloud reason, so probably it is not the best day for delicate deal making. It also is not a day 20. A burn cause by hot liquid or steam. 11. (computer science) A kind of computer you know it-no overtime. There are good practical job-related thoughts and ideas available today. when you feel like standing up to the world alone, so you would appreciate a little kindness from 22. A rug made of a coarse fabric having a architecture that has a relatively small set of The ability to communicate with superiors or describe what you see is in fine order. This after- those close to you. You are more than willing to repay them in kind. Mental stimulation is a good cotton warp and a wool filling. computer instructions that it can perform. noon is a time for dreaming and wishing to be surrounded by beauty. Hopefully, you will leave thing and you are wise to seek helpful ideas from business writers, authors of psychological direc- work, at work. You and a very special someone in your life have an opportunity to enjoy each oth- tion or smart high-achievers in the business world. This may take a little time so be patient with 25. Of or on or relating to the seashore. 12. Associated with academia or an acade- the difficult people or projects until you have some better insight into your course of action. You 26. A licensed medical practitioner. my. er’s company. You are quite creative and can usually find unique ways to relax and enjoy time away from the workplace. You may choose to cook a special, romantic meal tonight. may see some sudden but pleasant changes in the routine family life this week. 28. A toxic nonmetallic element related to 13. City in southwestern Colombia in a rich sulfur and tellurium. agricultural area. 29. A gray lustrous metallic element of the 14. Tropical starchy tuberous root. rare earth group. 21. Any of several plants of the genus Leo (July 23-August 22) Aquarius (January 20- February 18) 31. Having a toe or toes of a specified kind. Manihot having fleshy roots yielding a 32. Lack of strength or vigor esp from ill- nutritious starch. Today is a good day to work with others or work in groups. You could be most As this day begins, you may be extremely hardworking and ambitious on ness. 23. A farewell remark. persuasive and if you are in a position to sell items, you should do very well. Today’s work is per- the professional level. If you need help-help is within reach-do not complain, ask. In-depth 36. The federal department that adminis- 24. Any group or radical of the form RCO- fect for self-expression and lends itself to your particular ideas and thoughts. You can really get discussions and interested conversations find you at your mental best. Your analytical abil- ters federal program dealing with better where R is an organic group. your thoughts and ideas across to others-perhaps in advertising. Good communication skills ities are at a high point. Your imagination soars! Awareness and insight into others’ minds housing and urban renewal. 27. Germanic barbarian leader who ended grab the attention of others. It would be good to help others when you finish your own work; and into spiritual matters is especially strong. Escape the rigors of the daily grind this after- noon with a good fantasy or romance novel. Don’t worry-reality always returns, but today 38. Panel forming the lower part of an inte- the western Roman Empire in 476 and your time will be appreciated; there is much success. Your management and directional abilities are in high focus-you could set the course. Perhaps there is time this evening to think and study you need a rest. This evening others will find you looking ahead to future plans. You are rior wall when it is finished differently from became the first barbarian ruler of Italy because you have a real appreciation for ideas and thoughts. You may enjoy a special phone call wise to find areas where you can best improve interaction with family and friends. A young the rest. (434-493). tonight. pet needs your attention. 40. A mineral consisting of magnesium iron 30. A small constellation in the polar region silicate. of the southern hemisphere near the 41. Fit or ready for use or service. Southern Cross and Chamaeleon. Virgo (August 23-September 22) 44. A tortilla chip topped with cheese and 33. (Babylonian) A goddess of the watery Pisces (February 19-March 20) chili-pepper and broiled. deep and daughter of Ea. 45. So scary as to cause chills and shudders. 34. Draw in by breathing. You may feel like blowing your own horn today. Just remember to play on key. Today, emotions could get in the way of reason. There could be important This may mean you will be giving a lecture or teaching a class. Giving examples of your own negotiations coming up now so go with the facts and not the emotions. This is a time when 46. The dialect of Malay used as the nation- 35. Ancient name for the coastal region of experience could be a temptation to become long-winded or carried away! This afternoon your powers of creativity are great. New ideas and new ways to express them take on a al language of the Republic of Indonesia or northwestern Asia Minor (including could be a period of hard work as well as finding opportunities to branch out in new direc- great deal of importance. Creating projects for display or sales attraction or legal projects or of Malaysia. Lesbos). tions. While your ability to detect your partner’s true feelings are great, you should not let high as teaching guides reaps rewards for you. Social contacts have a way of outlining new direc- 49. A silvery ductile metallic element found 37. Made of fir or pine. aspirations cloud your judgment of other people’s abilities and talents. You could be chal- tions. You will want to show off your talents in new places. There is much activity and primarily in bauxite. 39. United States labor organizer who ran lenged to do a little problem solving on the home front this evening. This may involve young involvement with these subjects. You can demonstrate great understanding and sensitivity 50. Stems of beans and peas and potatoes for President as a socialist (1855-1926). people. Listen and ask questions, then listen some more-for as long as it takes. You will be about the needs of others. Later today you may find yourself serving the community in the and grasses collectively as used for thatch- 42. A large fleet. pleased with the outcome. same unique way you work in the business world. ing and bedding. 43. Of or relating to or characteristic of the 51. Building material used as siding or roof- Republic of Chad or its people or language. ing. 47. According to the Old Testament he was WORD SEARCH PUZZLE Yesterday’s Solution 54. An overwhelming feeling of wonder or a pagan king of Israel and husband of admiration. Jezebel (9th century BC). 57. The sixth month of the civil year. 48. Living quarters reserved for wives and 58. The United Nations agency concerned concubines and female relatives in a with atomic energy. Muslim household. 59. A port city in southwestern Iran. 52. English aristocrat who was the first wife 62. Avatar of Vishnu. of Prince Charles. 64. A genus of the cactus family with scarlet 53. (Akkadian) God of wisdom. flowers. 55. Polish labor leader and statesman (born 67. Daughter of Nehru who served as Prime in 1943). Minister of India from 1966 to 1977 (1917- 56. The compass point midway between 1984). northeast and east. 71. A conspicuous disparity or difference as 60. A committee having supervisory pow- between two figures. ers. 72. The basic unit of money in Saudi Arabia. 61. Strike with disgust or revulsion. 75. In bed. 63. Informal terms for a mother. 76. A period marked by distinctive charac- 65. An Arabic speaking person who lives in ter or reckoned from a fixed point or event. Arabia or North Africa. 77. A cut of pork ribs with much of the meat 66. Someone whose job is to dye cloth. trimmed off. 68. A software system that facilitates the 80. A machine-readable version of a stan- creation and maintenance and use of an dard dictionary. electronic database. 81. A lipoprotein that transports cholesterol 69. Queen of the Olympian gods in ancient in the blood. Greek mythology. 82. Herbs of Mediterranean to central Asia 70. Severe diabetes mellitus with an early cultivated for their flowers. onset. 83. A guided missile fired from shipboard 73. A strong emotion. against an airborne target. 74. Someone who engages in arbitrage (who purchases securities in one market for DOWN immediate resale in another in the hope of 1. An unofficial association of people or profiting from the price differential). groups. 78. After noon. 2. A person who has lied or who lies repeat- 79. A soft silvery metallic element of the edly. alkali earth group. 3. (Greek mythology) A giant with 100 eyes. Yesterday’s Solution

Daily SuDoku Yesterday’s Solution TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 information

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Afghanistan 0093 Luxembourg 00352 GOVERNORATE PHARMACY ADDRESS PHONE Albania 00355 Macau 00853 Algeria 00213 Macedonia 00389 Ahmadi Sama Safwan Fahaeel Makka St 23915883 Andorra 00376 Madagascar 00261 Sabah Hospital 24812000 Abu Halaifa Abu Halaifa-Coastal Rd 23715414 Angola 00244 Majorca 0034 Amiri Hospital 22450005 Danat Al-Sultan Mahboula Block 1, Coastal Rd 23726558 Anguilla 001264 Malawi 00265 Maternity Hospital 24843100 Jahra Modern Jahra Jahra-Block 3 Lot 1 24575518 Antiga 001268 Malaysia 0060 Madina Munawara Jahra-Block 92 24566622 Argentina 0054 Maldives 00960 Mubarak Al-Kabir Hospital 25312700 Capital Ahlam Fahad Al-Salem St 22436184 Armenia 00374 Mali 00223 Chest Hospital 24849400 Khaldiya Coop Khaldiya Coop 24833967 Australia 0061 Malta 00356 Austria 0043 Marshall Islands 00692 Farwaniya Hospital 24892010 Farwaniya New Shifa Farwaniya Block 40 24734000 Ferdous Coop Ferdous Coop 24881201 Bahamas 001242 Martinique 00596 Adan Hospital 23940620 Modern Safwan Old Kheitan Block 11 24726638 Bahrain 00973 Mauritania 00222 Ibn Sina Hospital 24840300 Bangladesh 00880 Mauritius 00230 Hawally Tariq Salmiya-Hamad Mubarak St 25726265 Barbados 001246 Mayotte 00269 Al-Razi Hospital 24846000 Hana Salmiya-Amman St 25647075 Ikhlas Hawally-Beirut St 22625999 Belarus 00375 Mexico 0052 Physiotherapy Hospital 24874330/9 Hawally & Rawdha Hawally & Rawdha Coop 22564549 Belgium 0032 Micronesia 00691 Ghadeer Jabriya-Block 1A 25340559 Belize 00501 Moldova 00373 Kindy Jabriya-Block 3B 25326554 Benin 00229 Monaco 00377 Ibn Al-Nafis Salmiya-Hamad Mubarak St 25721264 Mishrif Coop Mishrif Coop 25380581 Bermuda 001441 Mongolia 00976 Kaizen center 25716707 Salwa Coop Salwa Coop 25628241 Bhutan 00975 Montserrat 001664 Rawda 22517733 Bolivia 00591 Morocco 00212 Bosnia 00387 Mozambique 00258 Adaliya 22517144 Botswana 00267 Myanmar (Burma) 0095 Khaldiya 24848075 Brazil 0055 Namibia 00264 Brunei 00673 Nepal 00977 Kaifan 24849807 Bulgaria 00359 Netherlands 0031 Shamiya 24848913 Burkina 00226 Netherlands Antilles 00599 Burundi 00257 New Caledonia 00687 Shuwaikh 24814507 Cambodia 00855 New Zealand 0064 Abdullah Salem 22549134 Cameroon 00237 Nicaragua 00505 Canada 001 Nigar 00227 Nuzha 22526804 Cape Verde 00238 Nigeria 00234 Industrial Shuwaikh 24814764 Cayman Islands 001345 Niue 00683 Central African 00236 Norfolk Island 00672 Qadsiya 22515088 Chad 00235 N. Ireland (UK) 0044 Dasmah 22532265 Chile 0056 North Korea 00850 Bneid Al-Gar 22531908 China 0086 Norway 0047 Colombia 0057 Oman 00968 Shaab 22518752 Comoros 00269 Pakistan 0092 Qibla 22459381 Congo 00242 Palau 00680 Cook Islands 00682 Panama 00507 Ayoun Al-Qibla 22451082 Costa Rica 00506 Papua New Guinea 00675 Mirqab 22456536 Croatia 00385 Paraguay 00595 Cuba 0053 Peru 0051 Sharq 22465401 Cyprus 00357 Philippines 0063 Salmiya 25746401 Cyprus (Northern) 0090392 Poland 0048 Czech Republic 00420 Portugal 00351 Jabriya 25316254 Denmark 0045 Puerto Rico 001787 Maidan Hawally 25623444 Diego Garcia 00246 Qatar 00974 Djibouti 00253 Romania 0040 Bayan 25388462 Dominica 001767 Russian Federation 007 Mishref 25381200 Dominican Republic 001809 Rwanda 00250 W Hawally 22630786 Ecuador 00593 Saint Helena 00290 Egypt 0020 Saint Kitts 001869 Sabah 24810221 El Salvador 00503 Saint Lucia 001758 Jahra 24770319 England (UK) 0044 Saint Pierre 00508 Equatorial Guinea 00240 Saint Vincent 001784 New Jahra 24575755 Eritrea 00291 Samoa US 00684 West Jahra 24772608 Estonia 00372 Samoa West 00685 Ethiopia 00251 San Marino 00378 South Jahra 24775066 Falkland Islands 00500 Sao Tone 00239 North Jahra 24775992 Faroe Islands 00298 Saudi Arabia 00966 Fiji 00679 Scotland (UK) 0044 North Jleeb 24311795 Finland 00358 Senegal 00221 Ardhiya 24884079 France 0033 Seychelles 00284 Firdous 24892674 French Guiana 00594 Sierra Leone 00232 French Polynesia 00689 Singapore 0065 Omariya 24719048 Gabon 00241 Slovakia 00421 N Khaitan 24710044 Gambia 00220 Slovenia 00386 Georgia 00995 Solomon Islands 00677 Fintas 23900322 Germany 0049 Somalia 00252 Ghana 00233 South Africa 0027 Gibraltar 00350 South Korea 0082 Greece 0030 Spain 0034 Greenland 00299 Sri Lanka 0094 PRIVATE CLINICS Grenada 001473 Sudan 00249 Guadeloupe 00590 Suriname 00597 Guam 001671 Swaziland 00268 Guatemala 00502 Sweden 0046 Ophthalmologists Plastic Surgeons Paediatricians Endocrinologist Guinea 00224 Switzerland 0041 Dr. Abidallah Al-Mansoor 25622444 Dr. Mohammad Al-Khalaf 22547272 Dr. Khaled Hamadi 25665898 Guyana 00592 Syria 00963 Dr. Abd Al-Naser Al-Othman 25339330 Dr. Samy Al-Rabeea 25752222 Dr. Abdal-Redha Lari 22617700 Dr. Abd Al-Aziz Al-Rashed 25340300 Haiti 00509 Serbia 00381 Dr. Masoma Habeeb 25321171 Dr. Abdel Quttainah 25625030/60 Dr. Zahra Qabazard 25710444 Dr. Ahmad Al-Ansari 25658888 Holland (Netherlands) 0031 Taiwan 00886 Dr. Mubarak Al-Ajmy 25739999 Family Doctor Dr. Sohail Qamar 22621099 Honduras 00504 Tanzania 00255 Dr. Mohsen Abel 25757700 Dr. Kamal Al-Shomr 25329924 Dr Divya Damodar 23729596/23729581 Dr. Snaa Maaroof 25713514 Hong Kong 00852 Thailand 0066 Dr Adnan Hasan Alwayl 25732223 Physiotherapists & VD Hungary 0036 Toga 00228 Psychiatrists Dr. Pradip Gujare 23713100 Dr. Abdallah Al-Baghly 25732223 Dr. Zacharias Mathew 24334282 Dr. Deyaa Shehab 25722291 Ibiza (Spain) 0034 Tonga 00676 Ear, Nose & Throat (ENT) Dr. Esam Al-Ansari 22635047 Iceland 00354 Tokelau 00690 Dr. Ahmed Fouad Mouner 24555050 Ext 510 Dr Eisa M. Al-Balhan 22613623/0 Dermatology Dr. Musaed Faraj Khamees 22666288 India 0091 Trinidad 001868 Dr. Abdallah Al-Ali 25644660 Gynaecologists & Obstetricians Dr. Mohammed Salam Rheumatologists: Indian Ocean 00873 Tunisia 00216 Dr. Abd Al-Hameed Al-Taweel 25646478 DrAdrian arbe 23729596/23729581 Bern University 23845955 Indonesia 0062 Turkey 0090 Dr. Sanad Al-Fathalah 25311996 Dr. Verginia s.Marin 2572-6666 ext 8321 Dentists Dr. Adel Al-Awadi 25330060 Dr. Mohammad Al-Daaory 25731988 Iran 0098 Tuvalu 00688 Dr. Fozeya Ali Al-Qatan 22655539 Dr Anil Thomas 3729596/3729581 Dr. Ismail Al-Fodary 22620166 Dr. Khaled Al-Jarallah 25722290 Iraq 00964 Uganda 00256 Dr. Majeda Khalefa Aliytami 25343406 Dr. Shamah Al-Matar 22641071/2 Dr. Mahmoud Al-Booz 25651426 Ireland 00353 Ukraine 00380 Dr. Ahmad Al-Khooly 25739272 Dr. Anesah Al-Rasheed 22562226 Internist, Chest & Heart General Practitioners Italy 0039 United Arab Emirates 00976 Dr. Abidallah Al-Amer 22561444 Dr. Mohamme Y Majidi 24555050 Ext 123 Dr. Salem soso 22618787 DR.Mohammes Akkad 24555050 Ext 210 Ivory Coast 00225 United Kingdom 0044 Dr. Faysal Al-Fozan 22619557 General Surgeons Dr. Yousef Al-Omar 24719312 Dr. Mohammad Zubaid Jamaica 001876 Uruguay 00598 Dr. Abdallateef Al-Katrash 22525888 Dr. Tarek Al-Mikhazeem 23926920 Dr. Amer Zawaz Al-Amer 22610044 MB, ChB, FRCPC, PACC Japan 0081 USA 001 Dr. Abidallah Al-Duweisan 25653755 Dr. Kathem Maarafi 25730465 Dr. Mohammad Yousef Basher 25327148 Assistant Professor Of Medicine Jordan 00962 Uzbekistan 00998 Dr. Abdallah Ahmad Eyadah 25655528 Dr. Bader Al-Ansari 25620111 Internists, Chest & Heart Head, Division of Cardiology Kazakhstan 007 Vanuatu 00678 Dr. Nabeel Al-Ayoobi 24577781 Neurologists Mubarak Al-Kabeer Hospital 25339667 Dr. Adnan Ebil 22639939 Kenya 00254 Venezuela 00582 Dr. Dina Abidallah Al-Refae 25333501 Dr. Sohal Najem Al-Shemeri 25633324 Dr. Mousa Khadada 22666300 Consultant Cardiologist Kiribati 00686 Vietnam 0084 Urologists Dr. Jasem Mola Hassan 25345875 Dr. Latefa Al-Duweisan 25728004 Dr. Farida Al-Habib 2611555-2622555 Kuwait 00965 Virgin Islands UK 001284 Dr. Ali Naser Al-Serfy 22641534 Gastrologists MD, PH.D, FACC Dr. Fawzi Taher Abul 22639955 Dr. Nadem Al-Ghabra 25355515 Kyrgyzstan 00996 Virgin Islands US 001340 Dr. Sami Aman 22636464 Inaya German Medical Center Dr. Khaleel Abidallah Al-Awadi 22616660 Dr. Mobarak Aldoub 24726446 Laos 00856 Wales (UK) 0044 Dr. Mohammad Al-Shamaly 25322030 Te: 2575077 Dr. Adel Al-Hunayan FRCS (C) 25313120 Dr Nasser Behbehani 25654300/3 Latvia 00371 Yemen 00967 Dr. Foad Abidallah Al-Ali 22633135 Fax: 25723123 Dr. Leons Joseph 66703427 Lebanon 00961 Yugoslavia 00381 Soor Center Liberia 00231 Zambia 00260 Psychologists [email protected] Tel: 2290-1677 Kaizen center Noor Clinic William Schuilenberg, RPC 2290-1677 Libya 00218 Zimbabwe 00263 /Psychotherapists www.soorcenter.com Zaina Al Zabin, M.Sc. 2290-1677 Fax: 2290 1688 25716707 23845955 Lithuania 00370 LIFESTYLE36 TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 Gossip

Turner still ‘figuring out’ style

ophie Turner is trying to “figure out” her style. The ‘Game of Thrones’ actress enjoys experimenting with different fashions but hasn’t yet found what she most feels comfortable in. She said: “I’m still trying to Sfigure out what my signature style is. Some days I want to look like a hipster kid, some days I want to look punk and other days I want to be prim and proper. “But that’s the great thing about fashion. In a way it’s like acting - you can try different roles.” heT 19-year-old starlet admits she has slowly realized that wear- ing what suits her is much more important than copying the latest style trends. She said: “I like clothes that fit a womanly shape. “I’ve only just realized it isn’t about dressing in what’s fashionable, it’s about dressing for your shape.” Sophie dyes her blonde hair for ‘Game of Thrones’ and admits some fans are disappointed to realize she isn’t a natural red-head. She told LOOK magazine: “People are so disappointed when they find out I’m naturally blonde. “I get tweets saying, ‘Ugh I heard that Sophie is really a blonde not a red-head.’ and I’m like, ‘Sorry to disappoint you’ I can’t help the hair color I was born with.”

James Corden focusing on talk show Messy ames Corden is putting his acting career on hold to focus on ‘The Late Late Show’. The ‘Into The Woods’ star took the helm of the US Jtalk show from Craig Ferguson in March and is taking a break from Louis his other ventures in order to make sure the program is as “good” as he can make it. He told BANG Showbiz: “I have a couple of things that are due to come out next year. But yeah, I have to give my all to ‘The Late Tomlinson Watts inspired Late Show’ and commit to it being good. And then, you know, I hope to carry on acting when that’s done.” In order to attract viewers to the ouis Tomlinson is “incredibly show, the 36-year-old presenter and the show’s producer, Ben Winston, messy”. The One Direction singer are keen to enlist the help of their celebrity friends such as One Lhas admitted his tour bus habits Direction to make appearances. Speaking before the show began to air, often annoy his bandmates, Liam Payne, a source said: “Ben and James are trying to attract big names for the Harry Styles and Niall Horan, and he by Kidman March launch. The idea is for One Direction to be the show’s house band. thinks he has inherited his untidiness “They know they need to create a splash. James is a virtual unknown in from his mother. He said: “I don’t mind aomi Watts says Nicole Kidman helped her to believe in herself. The the States but he has more than four million Twitter followers so they are saying I am incredibly messy. It doesn’t ‘While We’re Young’ star admits she couldn’t have carved out a suc- going to drum up attention that way. “James is tapping up all his celebri- bug me, but it annoys the other boys Ncessful career in Hollywood without the support of her best friend. ty friends, including David Beckham and Simon Cowell. He’s very nerv- sometimes. “I think I get it off my mother She said: “I was lucky that Nicole Kidman was always there to support me, ous but determined to give it his best shot.” - she’s a bit messy too. She probably console me, keep my spirits up and help me believe in myself. She’s been wouldn’t like me saying that.” The ‘Little such a good friend over the years.” The 46-year-old beauty, who has sons Things’ hitmaker loves playing jokes on Alexander, seven, and Samuel, six, with long-term partner Liev Schreiber, his bandmates, even if it means disrupt- admits she is reluctant to take on traumatic roles these days because she is ing one of their gigs. He explained: so happy in her personal life. She said: “Early in my career I was drawn to “Every now and then during a concert I’ll darker material. But now I have so much joy in my family life that I don’t change a few songs words to something want to spoil that mood. “I feel such warmth with Liev and the boys. I look random and stupid, just to throw the forward to everything now. I’ve always had a happy nature; it was just a boys off.” And off stage, Liam most fre- matter of getting to a place where I could let that side take charge again. quently falls victim to Louis’ jokes. He “Me and my men have such fun together.” But the Australian star admits added to Top of the Pops magazine: “I she will never forget how it felt to be a struggling actress and doesn’t take think Liam [is the victim most often]. I her success for granted. She told US’ OK! magazine: “It was scary trying to don’t know why. He’s not gullible or any- find work and having no money and no medical insurance. I had very few thing. I just think it’s cos me and him friends and would spend days alone, sitting in cafes and feeling miserable. banter with each other a lot and he gets “Even when I started becoming famous, I never forgot what it felt like to the brunt of it.” worry about making ends meet.” Bell’s husband prefers her makeup free risten Bell’s husband prefers her to go makeup- free. The ‘Frozen’ star has revealed her hubby KDax Shepard - with whom she has Lincoln, two and three-month-old Delta - often encourages her to go bare faced, while her kids simply advise her to smile as much as possible, She explained: “[He said] stop wearing makeup, which is obviously very flatter- ing! I think he prefers me makeup-free. “I think what I’ve learned about beauty from children is number one, you’re always more beautiful when you’re laugh- ing, and number two, a little bit of sunscreen can go a long way. Your skin will simply look more youthful if you commit to wearing sunscreen and protecting yourself from UV rays.” The blonde beauty added she feels at her most attractive when she’s around her family. She said: “I honestly feel most beautiful when I’m in a snuggle pile with them, and also when there’s no mirrors around. Because I think it’s such a trap to think that beauty is all visual, and the more you focus on it being a feeling, the happier you’ll become. I truly believe that.” However, Kristen, 34, still enjoys getting dolled up for red carpet appearances and treats herself to a pedicure every now and again. She told PEOPLE: “I would love to say I did a gorgeous smoky eye, but I just don’t have the time. And I think that makeup is espe- cially about balance, and I find that all I have to do is a swipe of mascara if I do a bold lip and it tends to be a quicker makeup process. “If I have the time, I get a pedicure. I usually stick in the red families; I like to stay bold for my feet. I think feet are not innately gorgeous, so they deserve a lot Hamilton’s of pizzazz. [That’s why] I usually stick with a pretty bright red.” meaningful tattoos Luke Hemmings: ewis Hamilton only gets meaningful tattoos. The Formula One racing driver - who has many inkings on his body - makes sure they all have Lsome meaning behind them before going under the needle. He said: “I love my ink. They all have a meaning. I’m very strong in my faith, so I Big groups of wanted to have some religious images. I’ve got Piet‡, a Michelangelo sculpture of Mary holding Jesus after he came off the cross, on my shoul- der. A sacred heart on my arm. Musical notes, because I love music. The fans scare me compass on my chest is there because church is my compass. “Family is everything for me, so I have ‘family’ written on the top, across my shoul- Seconds of Summer star Luke Hemmings finds big ders. ‘Faith’, obviously. And I have ‘powerful beyond measure’ written on groups of fans scary. The 18-year-old singer revealed he is my chest - it’s a short bit I took out of a quote from the writer Marianne 5often freaked out by the large crowds of girls waiting for Williamson. On my back I have the cross and angel wings: rise above it, no the ‘Don’t Stop’ hitmakers when they arrive at airports. When matter what life throws at you.” And Lewis, 30, also admitted he has to train asked to name his weirdest fan experience, speaking in Japan, hard at an “intense level” to prepare him for his races. Speaking in the May he said: “When there’s a lot of fans in an airport and they’re all issue of Men’s Health magazine - which is on sale tomorrow - he said: “Well, trying... It gets quite intense sometimes. It’s when there’s a I’m an athlete, but people tend not to see that with F1 drivers. I train to whole bunch of fans in one place.” However, the boys enjoy quite an intense level because Formula 1 is so physical - the G-forces, the being sent fun gifts by their followers and admitted they demands on your body. Your heart rate is 150, 160 through the whole race. recently had a lot of fun after one fan sent them a headband “On qualifying laps, your heart rate can be up to 180, 190 under tough adorned with party poppers to play with. Ashton Irwin even conditions. Every year you’ve got to be as light as you can. There’s a certain shared a video of the group playing with the noisy toy on his weight limit, depending on how heavy the car can be. Last year I had to mobile phone, while the boys cracked up as Luke described the lose six kilos, I went from 73kg to 67kg. It was hardcore; I didn’t have much bizarre gift. He said: “We got party poppers and a straw. There’s to lose as it was. So I train a lot.” three attached to your head and then you blow it.” LIFESTYLE37 TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 Gossip Bella Thorne: I’m too lazy for fashion ella Thorne is too lazy to try on clothes. The ‘The Duff’ actress has explained to Grazia Daily: “I don’t get nervous because I’ve done quite a few of revealed she struggles to “get that excited” about fashion as while she them. It’s always different every carpet you step on and especially when it’s Benjoys picking out accessories, she can’t be bothered to put on different your own movie it’s nervous and exciting.” The 17-year-old actress has also outfits. When asked if she enjoys choosing different looks for promo tours, she admitted she would happily shun sporting designer gowns to star-studded said: “I don’t get that excited, just because I don’t like trying on clothes. I love bashes in favor of a bath robe after getting used to wearing one during the shoes and I love purses, but trying on clothes will be the death of me. I’m so filming of the new comedy. She explained: “You know what I wish though? lazy I don’t like putting my hands over my head, that’s the really biggest prob- That people would make it so robes were fashionable because all I do is wear a lem.” Despite refusing to spend time perfecting her look, the flame-haired robe. I showed up in one today, I wore them throughout the movie [The DUFF]. beauty insists she doesn’t feel anxious ahead of red carpet appearances. She You have to pry it off me.”

Georgia May Jagger’s Minnie Mouse makeover Duff eorgia May Jagger has been given a gets beauty Minnie Mouse makeover. The 23-year-old Gmodel has worked with British designer Ashley Williams for Dazed Magazine to create a advice from son modern interpretation of the Disney character ahead of the ‘Minnie Style’ exhibition at London ilary Duff gets beauty tips from her son. Fashion Week. Georgia said: “I’ve always been a The 27-year-old actress and singer has Minnie fan so I’m really excited to be working on revealed three-year-old Luca, whom she this campaign, showing how pop culture can H has with her estranged husband Mike Comrie, influence fashion in a way that encourages excitement and creativity. “Minnie is fun, inde- is very vocal when it comes to her look and pendent and super-stylish, and it was great work- often gives her advice on how she should wear ing with Ashley and Dazed Magazine to create a her hair. She said: “Luca is very particular about modern British interpretation of this, and provide how he likes my hair. There’s absolutely no inspiration for the exhibition.” The images are to buns on my head, no ponytails. I’ll have a pony- form part of the exhibition, which will run tail and he’s like, ‘Um, hair down, mum. Hair between September 18 - 22 as part of London down, please.’ At least he knows what he likes.” Fashion Week, showcasing just some of the many The former ‘Lizzie McGuire’ star - who recently times the famous character has been used for dyed her hair green - was inspired to swap her style inspiration since its beginnings in 1928. The blonde locks for vibrant aqua tresses after a Dazed magazine Spring / Summer 2015 issue is trip to the beach with her son in Cabo, Mexico. available on shelves from April 9th. A passionate She explained during an appearance on ‘The photographer, Georgia May Jagger is turning to Ellen DeGeneres Show’ last night: “I’ve never Instagram to source inspiration for a ‘Minnie Style’ exhibition at London Fashion Week in September. done anything like this. “I was just in Cabo with Share your Minnie Mouse style using [my son Luca] and I was staring at the ocean #MinnieStyleUK or find out more at and I was like, ‘I want that on my head.’ So, this DazedDigital.com. happened.” Karlie Kloss Hadid Whitney Port’s hated running arlie Kloss used to hate running. The taught by former Victoria’s Secret model - who Kran the Paris Half Marathon earlier this heartbreak month - has admitted she previously hated the idea of jogging despite being a “super hitney Port almost gave up her active person” from a young age. She said: Jenner career when her father died. The “To be completely honest, I used to hate run- igi Hadid learned how to “deal with the W30-year-old fashion designer was ning. Before I started training for the Paris haters” from Kendall Jenner. The 19-year-old left devastated when her beloved dad and Half Marathon, I had never run more than model took inspiration from the ‘Keeping Up business partner Jeffrey passed away from four miles at one time. “But I’ve always been G With The Kardashians’ star when it came to learning kidney cancer two years ago and couldn’t a super active person and trained from a very how to deal with negative feedback, particularly on see a point in carrying on with her fashion young age as a ballerina. In my dance train- social media. She said: “From Kendall I learned how line Whitney Eve. She said: “Not only did I ing and now in my workouts, it’s always been to deal with the haters.”She has a really good sense lose my dad but my mentor. “I just thought, so important to challenge myself. Running is of when to stand up [on social media] and when to ‘Oh dear, I’m on my own now’. “I just wanted a fear I’ve always wanted to overcome and back off.” And it’s not only Kendall, 19, that Gigi has to quit everything. I was like, if I can’t share it push myself to try.” And Karlie is not content taken social media tips from as she believes former with him, nothing’s going to be worthwhile.” with just one Half Marathon under her belt Victoria’s Secret model Karlie Kloss is great at show- But Whitney’s mother Vicki told her to recon- and is hoping she can complete another ing how to be yourself online. She added: “I think sider and she is glad she persevered to make soon. She added: “Crossing the finish line she does such a good job of showing who she is. her dad “proud”. She added to HELLO!’s Fashion Monthly magazine: “She was such an incredible feeling and accom- She lets her personality really shine in her wouldn’t let me quit so I stuck it out for a couple of months and, honestly, I plishment for me.” My goal in taking on run- Instagram.” Meanwhile, Gigi - who is dating singer had the biggest year of my life for my collection. “Distribution grew and ning is to challenge myself physically and Cody Simpson - also offered her own tips for aspir- everything started clicking. I was so grateful that I stuck it out. I went from, know I can do anything I set my mind to. I’m ing models on how to use Twitter and Instagram. ‘I’m done’ to ‘I just want to make him proud.’” definitely planning to run another half Speaking to Style.com, the blonde beauty shared: marathon in the future!” The 22-year-old “The biggest tip I would give people for personal model believes her active lifestyle is one fac- branding is just to have a feeling to the tor which helps her when she’s on the cat- page.”Whether it’s color scheme or the types of walk. She added to Runner’s World: “Running posts that you do or just making sure that your is an all-encompassing workout that really images are really high quality.” Fortunately for Hilary, exercises your entire body. Chastain Luca is a huge fan of her new do. She said: “He saw [my mermaid hair] and he’s like, ‘Is your hair green, bought a mom?’ And I’m like, ‘That’s right, it’s green.’ haunted apartment essica Chastain has bought an Dunn wasn’t satisfied apartment that is supposedly Jhaunted by ghosts. The 38-year- by her appearance old actress is reported to have spent as much as $5.1 million on an apart- ourdan Dunn used to feel “physically sick” ment in New York that features four about her own appearance. The 24-year- bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms, but Jold model, who is the new according to two residents from the face of Maybelline New York, Osborne Apartments on West 57th says she was bullied so Street in Manhattan, there are sever- severely because of her al spirits living in the building. striking looks, she Naomi Guffman - a long-time resi- could barely bring dent of the building - said: “I have a herself to look in the poltergeist! “[Me and my husband mirror. The London- would] be standing in the hallway born star explained: “I talking and the toilet would start to didn’t want to leave the flush.” Naomi believes her building is house. “I didn’t want to haunted by Johanna Gadski, a mez- look in the mirror. I would zo-soprano who sang at the feel physically sick. I hated Metropolitan Opera before World being me. “I hated going to school. I already War I. Meanwhile, Davida Deutsch didn’t like the way I looked and now people said that she and her husband were were making me feel bad.” Jourdan, who started both awakened by a loud and unex- skipping school altogether until she was home- plained bang in the middle of the schooled, also hit out at the fashion industry for night during their first evening in the lack of black models. She told The Times the apartment in 1971. She recalled: newspaper: “It’s hard for black girls. “A lot do “We were scared to death.” However, give up, because if you don’t have an agency John Coyne, the resident manager who is going to push you, you are just there of the building, says that although doing nothing and having to deal with all the he’s heard the ghost stories, he’s rejection.” Jourdan admits she’s faced prejudice never seen anything with his own within the industry, but was determined to pur- eyes. He told the New York Post sue her ambitions. She reflected: “I feel like, I newspaper: “I haven’t come across owe it to other little black girls and other ethnic- anything strange. I don’t know if looking girls to carry this on. You know what? It that means if he’s moved on or he’s is hard but I had to, like, get over it.” —Bang moved out.” Showbiz lifestyle TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 MUSIC & MOVIES Beyonce releases surprise love ballad on Jay Z’s streaming site

&B queen Beyonce has quietly new Tidal and offer exclusive content. released a love song dedicated The site also features exclusive Rto her husband, hip hop mogul music videos from R&B singers Jay Z, available only on his new Rihanna and Alicia Keys and rockers streaming service Tidal. The White Stripes. Jay Z bought Tidal Songstress Queen Bey posted a 15- earlier this year for $56 million from second preview of the acoustic ballad its Swedish-listed parent company “Die With You” on her Facebook page Aspiro and markets itself to audio- Saturday in celebration of the cou- philes. In a promotional video ple’s seven-year wedding anniversary. released after its launch, the compa- “I don’t have a reason to be if I can’t ny said it is focused valuing artists for be with you,” Beyonce sings softly as their talent, and not treating them as she plays the piano, wearing a back- mere products, in a stab at other Winner of best Alternative act, System of a Down pose backstage at the MTV wards cap, blond pigtails and appear- unnamed streaming companies. European Music Awards at the Atlantico Pavillion in Lisbon. — AFP ing make-up free. Beyonce posted the song unexpect- “‘Cause Darling I wake up just to edly on social media, much like the On Armenia centennial, US rockers sleep with you / I open my eyes so I surprise release of her eponymous can see with you / and I live so I can A file picture taken on February15, 2015, Beyonce and Jay Z attend the album last year that quickly became die with you,” she sings in the home- 64th NBA All-Star Game at Madison Square Garden in New York. —AFP a top-seller around the world. By hope music raises pressure video style clip. The camera moves Sunday afternoon, Beyonce’s “Die around her as she croons, eventually ed Tidal streaming service was ing Madonna, Kanye West and the With You” Facebook post had been turning on the filmer: the lucky man launched in March by Jay Z, backed masked electronic duo Daft Punk, shared close to 10,000 times and by major music heavyweights includ- who will all be equity partners in the ne hundred years after the mass killings remain rampant 100 years later. himself, husband Jay Z. The rebrand- “Liked” by 129,000 fans. — AFP of Armenians, US band System of a Down He pointed to the killings of Yazidis, Ois taking the fight for remembrance Christians and other minorities by the Islamic beyond politicians to the world’s music fans. The State movement-including in parts of Syria that Los Angeles-area hard rockers, who have sold witnessed bloodshed in 1915. “It’s very ironic Box Office: ‘Furious 7’ destroys more than 40 million albums since the mid- that bodies are being buried right over the 1990s, are of Armenian descent and are prepar- bones of our ancestors in the same desert,” ing a European tour to culminate in a public Tankian said. The United Nations adopted the concert on April 23 in Yerevan, the band’s first Genocide Convention after World War II, but records with $143.6 m debut performance in Armenia. Tankian noted that there was still “no executable System of a Down’s goal is one for which agreement among major powers that if a geno- Armenians have campaigned for decades-with cide occurs, all bets are off and we should stop urious 7” raced to the top of the limited success-for the world to recognize the dealing with that country.” domestic box office, picking up a mas- killings of some 1.5 million people in 1915 in the ‘Fsive $143.6 million in its opening waning days of the Ottoman Empire as a geno- Tense anniversary weekend. That establishes a new high-water cide. Turkey, born of the ashes of the Ottoman System of a Down said that the free concert mark for the month of April, blowing past the Empire, has vehemently denied a systematic in Yerevan’s Republic Square-on the eve of what $95 million debut of “Captain America: The effort to wipe out Armenians. Armenians mark as Genocide Remembrance Winter Soldier,” as well as marks the highest Turkey puts the death toll at 500,000 and Day-would be band’s longest-ever, with a set of grossing kick-off for any film in the “Fast and pins the blame on the chaos of World War I and 32 songs. The band members said that they Furious” franchise. It also ranks ninth among starvation. “We don’t have the lobbying power hoped some Turkish fans would come, stressing the top ten openings in history. that the Turkish government has. We only have that their grievances lay with the Turkish gov- Audiences flocked to see star Paul Walker in the stories of our surviving family members,” ernment rather than people. For the European one of his final roles. The actor died in a 2013 drummer John Dolmayan told AFP. “That is why tour, which includes sold-out arena shows in car crash at the age of 40 and his work on the after 100 years-or 150, or 200 years-the truth is Britain, France and Germany, System of a Down film was completed by using digital technolo- going to come out,” he said. Band members plans a three-part video montage that, in part, gy and a series of stand-ins. Universal Pictures acknowledged many concert-goers are fore- will ask whether the cautious reaction to killings most drawn to the music but said they were of Armenians emboldened Nazi Germany to spared no expense in bringing the latest chap- heartened by the number of fans who learned order the Holocaust. ter in the fast cars and gravity-defying-stunts about 1915 through System of a Down. US lawmakers have repeatedly introduced series to the big screen, shelling out $190 mil- “We do the best we can not to be preachy,” Armenian genocide resolutions but successive lion on the production. It unspooled in 4,003 Dolmayan said. “You can’t make people listen to administrations have intervened for the sake of North American theaters including Imax and you, you can’t make them agree with you, but keeping relations with Turkey, a NATO ally and premium large format screens. you can provide them with a source of informa- major player in the Islamic world. President Foreign numbers have yet to be released, tion that they can take and explore.” Vocalist Serj Barack Obama has walked a fine line by stand- but they promise to be steroidal. Tankian said that the tour-dubbed “Wake Up the ing by a statement he made before his 2008 Internationally, the film rolled out across “Furious 7” could be one of the few modern buster fare and “Furious 7” won’t get serious Souls”-also had a broader purpose of raising election that described “genocide” without 10,500 screens in 63 territories. blockbusters that hangs in for more than a few competition until “The Avengers: Age of awareness of how major human rights abuses reusing the term. —AFP With an A CinemaScore and strong reviews, weeks. The month of April is lean on block- Ultron” debuts on May 1. — Reuters lifestyle TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 FEATURES

NYC’sStephanie Woram, right, along with two of her sisters pose forEaster photographs. Parade

Davey Mitchell poses for photographs as he brings out creative hats takes part in the Easter Parade. Online uniform For their first Easter Parade, the Maxwell family wore costumes themed on the 1984 American sci-fi comedy film “Ghostbusters,” which has nothing to do with the Easter theme of Jesus’ resurrection. “We put all these parts together off

he bonnets appeared on Fifth Avenue for the annual Easter TParade - outlandish 21st century headpieces that were hardly bonnets, featuring everything from bunnies and butterflies to grassy, egg-dotted lawns and even a tall ship on the high seas. And the parade is hardly a parade. Instead, while Cardinal Timothy Dolan celebrated Sunday Mass at St Patrick’s Cathedral, the avenue was milling with Maelie Swanson held by her father people in homemade costumes that get Jeff Swanson participates in the zanier each year. Easter Parade. The crowd included Christians, Jews, of eBay and different other sites,” said Hindus, agnostics, atheists and others, Markus Kelle poses for photographs Ronald Maxwell, a Manhattan comput- including hundreds of tourists. “It’s all as he takes part in the Easter Parade er consultant who strapped a huge, about versatility,” said Mary Anna Smith, along New York’s Fifth Avenue on Sunday. — AP photos menacing looking “proton pack” to his Marije Klep, center, chats with others along New York’s Fifth Avenue as they take part in the Easter Parade. back, with pink and white bunny ears a New York custom milliner whose busi- on his head. Wife Hilary Maxwell, a body, greenish pantsuit that totally and she won’t walk in it. But if I carry ing it with a flowery headband plus a ness card reads “The Tipsy Topper.” The dog walker, wore a Ghostbusters-style concealed his head. her, she’s fine,” said owner Melissa necklace meant for tweens. Mejias wore 2015 Easter Parade bore little resem- dress she bought from an online uni- Carmen, a 4-pound Chihuahua, was Mejias. Mejias used a Simplicity pattern her mother-in-law’s old, dark red velvet blance to the first one that started in the form supplier. And their 12-year-old not happy with her getup. “She didn’t - yes, they have a dog line - to sew Easter hat. “I’m carrying on that tradi- 1880s as a display of the finery prosper- son, William Maxwell, donned a full- love this one because it’s kind of heavy, Carmen’s coat from her old shirt, adorn- tion,” said Mejias. Sort of. — AP ous New Yorkers wore to Fifth Avenue churches. In recent decades, the street gathering has morphed into a costume circus. Smith wore a “hat” she fashioned from an elaborate kite and some fluffy white stuff into a bright blue sailing ship floating on sea foam. “It’s about sailing to new heights,” said Smith. She also created head- pieces for two friends, one a massive butterfly and the other a tropical umbrella dripping with felt balls and anchored to a bird’s nest, then to human hair. Steps from the parade, the trio was tending to last-minute touch- es, adding bobby pins to make sure the contraptions didn’t topple. “It’s Easter and I didn’t want to be too garish,” said Smith’s friend, Kristen Lee Sergeant, a Mary Anna Smith wears an Easter Manhattan jazz singer in a simple bonnet featuring a blue ship. green dress. “But then again, I do have a huge butterfly on my head!” Terrie Furukawa, right, reties the hat of her aunt Yotsuko Sakamoto. Matthew Flower poses as he takes part in the Easter Parade.

Sasha Bryant, left, and her sister India Bryant, right, pose as they take part Victoria Lee Esonni Hall, of Neptune wears a homemade Easter bonnet as she joins oth- in the Easter Parade. ers with decorated Easter outfits parading. NYC’s Easter Parade brings out creative hats

TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2015 39

An artwork by Swiss artists Gerda Steiner and Jorg Lenzlinger on display in the chapel at the Chaumont-sur-Loire castle. The domain of Chaumont-sur-Loire will host the 2015 edition of the Centre of Arts and Nature international fes- tival from April 4 to November 1, 2015. — AFP Skype meets theatre in Syria twist on Romeo and Juliet

ixing traditional theatre with mod- ern technology, a new Syrian ver- Msion of Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet” is offering a unique twist on the classic love story. Romeo is a young Syrian refugee in Jordan, and his beloved is trapped in the region of Homs-their only means of commu- nication through Skype and other online tools. Playing out on the rooftop of a makeshift hospital for Syrian refugees in the Jordanian capital Amman, the new produc- tion aims to highlight the plight of those who have escaped Syria’s devastating civil war-and those left behind. “We wanted, through this unique work, to draw attention to the areas under siege by the regime in Syria after the failure of humanitarian organizations to send food, water and medicine there,” said the play’s director, acclaimed Syrian actor Nawar Bulbul. “We also wanted to send a message to the world that the besieged people are not terrorists but children threatened by shelling, death and destruction.” Syrian refugees perform in William Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet”, directed by Syrian refugees perform in William Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet”. The play’s Romeo is Ibrahim, a 12-year-old acclaimed Syrian actor Nawar Bulbul. — AFP photos who lost his mother and three of his siblings in regime shelling of Damascus last year. spectators had to wait an hour before the said that after working on the production for Three operations to his right leg saved it from feed of Juliet’s balcony appeared for Romeo several months he has grown close to those amputation, but the road to recovery is long to declare his love. on the other side of the camera. “I hope to and he requires two more operations. Its Juliet Bulbul said he believes his play is the first see them one day face-to-face once the war is is a 14-year-old girl cut off from help and her to use Skype in such a way. He has rewritten over,” he said. For the audience, many of them extended family one of what the UN says is the work substantially to remove violence Syrian refugees as well, the play has driven some 440,000 civilians trapped in Syrian con- and focus instead on the love story. It follows home how much their country has lost. flict zones without access to relief efforts. a similar project last year that saw Bulbul “There is no more love in Syria like in Juliet’s identity and exact location are kept produce “King Lear” with child actors for his this story. The war destroyed all that is secret, and she wears a veil throughout the “Shakespeare in Zaatari” project at the beautiful in my country,” said Mohammed performance. As the audience watches, their Zaatari camp north of Amman, where some Halima, a 24-year-old wheelchair-bound love story unfolds with Ibrahim sitting before 83,000 Syrian refugees live. refugee who is receiving treatment after a video feed projected on a white canvas. He said his plays emphasize the anxiety being shot five times two years ago in and pain children face when torn away from Syria. “We young men are the biggest vic- ‘No more love in Syria’ their homes, families and countries. “The aim tims of this insane war, and everyone had a The real world can intrude, with Internet was to humanize and inspire the children love story with someone,” Halima said. “But and electricity outages in Homs sometimes through art. To use art as an outlet for their now we don’t know where they are or if interrupting the show. At one performance, anger, sorrow and pain,” he told AFP. Ibrahim An injured Syrian refugee girl performs. they are still alive.” — AFP

Injured Syrian refugee children, including Ibrahim playing the part of Syrian refugees watch a performance. Syrian actor Nawar Bulbul performs with Syrian refugees. Romeo.