JAMADA ALTHANI 5, 1439 AH WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2018

Max 22º 32 Pages Min 10º 150 Fils Established 1961

ISSUE NO: 17463 The First Daily in the Arabian Gulf www.kuwaittimes.net

Two more embassy officials Syria pounds rebel enclave, AUB reports net profit Messi breaks Chelsea duck; 5 recalled over maid’s death 6 sends fighters to face Turkey 17 of $618.7m for 2017 16 5-star Bayern romp home

Minister extends amnesty for residence violators till April 22

Curbs relaxed on absconding domestics • MP warns PM against raising charges

By B Izzak In a related decision, the director Abbas calls for Mideast general of the residence department KUWAIT: Interior Minister Sheikh yesterday issued a decision allowing peace conference in Khaled Al-Jarrah Al-Sabah yesterday maids registered by their sponsors as extended the amnesty for residence vio- absconding to transfer to a new sponsor lators by two more months till April 22. without the prior consent of the original rare UN speech The extension came in an official circular employer. Previously, workers and maids signed by the minister yesterday follow- registered by their employers as UNITED NATIONS: Palestinian nism emanating from an interna- ing reports that as many as 50,000 absconding or runaways were not leader Mahmoud Abbas yester- tional conference,” Abbas said. expatriate residency violators have ben- allowed to get their residence trans- day called for an international President Donald Trump’s deci- efitted from the amnesty that was to end ferred without the consent of their spon- conference to be held by mid- sion to move the US embassy to on Feb 23. The amnesty allows residency sors, some of whom exploited this facili- 2018 to pave the way for Jerusalem infuriated the violators to leave the country without ty against the workers. Palestinian statehood and launch a Palestinians, who declared that the need to pay any overstay fines and According to the decision, helpers new, wider Middle East peace Washington could no longer play a also allows them to return to the country registered as absconders can transfer process. In a rare address to the role as lead mediator in the Middle if they manage to obtain a new work their residence to a new sponsor, pro- UN Security Council, Abbas pre- East peace process. Abbas put the NEW YORK: Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas speaks at the UN permit. vided the new sponsor pays all the fines sented what he called a “peace blame for the failure of peace Security Council yesterday. — AFP Initial reports estimated that as many - if any - registered against them. The plan” to revive the comatose efforts squarely on Israel, saying it as 100,000 expatriates were living in the helper then cannot transfer to another Israeli-Palestinian talks with new was “acting as a state above the Abbas said the conference settlement. The Palestinian leader country without legal residence permits. sponsor until one year elapses from the international mediation - in which law”. “It has transformed the occu- should lead to full UN membership immediately left the council cham- According to the latest population fig- date of the transfer. the United States would have less pation from a temporary situation for the state of Palestine, mutual ber following his address, leaving ures from the Public Authority for Civil Meanwhile, MP Riyadh Al-Adasani weight. “To solve the Palestine as per international law into a situ- recognition of Israel and Palestine, Israeli Ambassador Danny Danon Information, there are 3.1 million expatri- yesterday warned that he will hold the question, it is essential to establish ation of permanent settlement col- and the creation of a new interna- to complain that he was once again ates in the country against around 1.4 prime minister to account if the a multilateral international mecha- onization,” he said. tional mechanism to reach a final Continued on Page 11 million nationals. Continued on Page 11 2 Established 1961 Local Wednesday, February 21, 2018 Amir receives commemorative coin from Central Bank Governor Bank issues coin to mark its golden jubilee

KUWAIT: His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah receives a commemora- His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah meets with Head of Al-Sidra tive coin from Central Bank of Kuwait’s Governor Dr Mohammad Al-Hashel.— KUNA Association for the Psychological Care of Cancer Patients Sheikha Azza Jaber Al-Ali Al-Sabah.

KUWAIT: His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al- Kuwaiti Monetary Council in 1960. The Kuwaiti dinar Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah received yesterday at Bayan was issued in 1961 as a national currency depicting the Palace Central Bank of Kuwait (CBK) Governor Dr State of Kuwait sovereignty. He lauded the CBK for Mohammad Al-Hashel, who presented to His Highness a safeguarding the Kuwaiti dinar as one of the authentic commemorative coin marking the 50th anniversary globally traded currencies. One side of the coin is dec- (golden jubilee) of CBK founding. Hashel also present- orated with the national emblem, along with another ed commemorative coins to His Highness the Crown slogan marking the occasion. The other side bears the Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and CBK logo. His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Jaber Al- Separately, His Highness the Amir received Sheikha Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah. Azza Jaber Al-Ali Al-Sabah, Head of Al-Sidra Hashel said in a statement that the bank minted the Association for the Psychological Care of Cancer symbolic coin on the 50th anniversary of issuing Law Patients, and association members. The meeting was attended by Minister of Amiri Diwan Affairs Sheikh Ali Jarrah Al-Sabah. Earlier yesterday, His Highness the Amir received National Assembly Speaker Marzouq Al-Ghanem and His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah. Meanwhile, His Highness the Crown Prince received Ghanem, His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al- Mohammad and Sheikh Dr Ibrahim Al-Duaij Al-Sabah. His Highness Sheikh Nawaf also received Information Minister Mohammad Al-Jabri, Al-Ahmadi Governor Sheikh Fawaz Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah and Acting President of the State Audit Bureau Adel A commemorative coin released by the Central Abdul-Aziz Al-Sarawi. His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah meets with Central Bank Bank of Kuwait on its 50th anniversary. of Kuwait’s Governor Dr Mohammad Al-Hashel. Amir congratulates Crown Prince In other news, His Highness the Amir sent a cable of congratulation to His Highness the Crown Prince on the Separately, His Highness the Amir is set to patronize and Prize for Horse Racing organized by Al-Jahra 32/1968 and regulations’ issuance regulating banking occasion of the 12th anniversary of assuming the post. and attend today a ceremony honoring winners of 21st Equestrian Club. Kuwait’s Capital Governor Retired on June 30, 1968. The law and its amendment constitute In return, His Highness the Crown Prince sent a reply Kuwait’s Quran Memorization, Recitation Grand Lieutenant General Thabet Al-Muhanna will attend the basic legislative framework for modern Kuwaiti mone- letter to His Highness the Amir, expressing appreciation Competition. The ceremony will be held at Bayan event on behalf of His Highness the Crown Prince at tary and banking sectors, Hashel said, also noting that for the kind gesture, as well as wishing His Highness the Palace starting at 10:30 am. Meanwhile, His Highness 4:30 pm today at Sheikh Sabah Al-Nasser Al-Sabah the CBK had taken over jurisdictions from the former Amir utmost health. the Crown Prince is set to patronize His Highness’s Cup racetrack. — KUNA

Az-Zour North Power Plant ready for summer

KUWAIT: Shamal Az-Zour Al-Oula pared for the increase in demand Company yesterday announced that expected for the Summer season of successful conclusion of a site visit 2018. by the Ministry of Electricity and Shamal Az-Zour CEO Andrew Water’s (MEW) Power and Water Paul Frain said: “It was our pleasure Distillation Sector in preparation for to guide the delegation through our the summer 2018 season. preparations for the high-demand Hosted on February 12, the site Summer 2018 season. Since visit is part of an annual mainte- November 2016, the plant is fully nance schedule carried out by the operational and is already contribut- Ministry of Electricity and Water ing to the national grid and supply under the supervision of Assistant the Ministry of Electricity and Water Undersecretary for the Water Plant with the necessary energy.” Operation and Maintenance Sector Az-Zour North One Power and Engineer Fouad Al-Oun, and the Water Plant is the Kuwait’s first KUWAIT: First Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Sheikh First Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Sheikh Nasser Director of Private Sector Projects independently owned power and Nasser Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah meets with the Chinese Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah meets with the Iranian Ambassador to Department (PSPD) Ayman Al-Hajji, water facility. The plant has a pro- Ambassador to Kuwait Wang Di. — KUNA Kuwait Ali Enayati. who were received by Shamal Az- duction capacity of 10 percent of Zour CEO Andrew Paul Frain. Kuwait’s power requirements at Oun also met with the company’s peak production (1,539MW) and 20 Kuwaiti personnel, including engi- percent of water generation (107 neers and technicians, to review million gallons per day). Defense Minister hosts their training and development The plant began operations in progress as part of the company’s November 2016 and is the first stage program to train and empower of the country’s plan to significantly envoys, invited to Kuwait Kuwaiti professionals to lead the increase capacity over the coming plant’s operations. The site visit con- years and part of a larger effort to cluded that Az-Zour North One meet an anticipated peak demand of students union convention Power and Water Plant is fully pre- 25 gigawatts (GW) by 2025. KUWAIT: First Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Sheikh Nasser Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah held separate meetings with the ambas- sadors of China, Iran and the Tajik Republic at Bayan palace yesterday. A ministry statement quoted Sheikh Nasser as praising during the meetings the depth of Kuwait’s ties with the envoys’ countries. The Chinese envoy Wang Di offered congratulations on Sheikh Nasser’s recent assumption of the post. The Iranian Ambassador Ali Enayati presented to Sheikh Nasser a letter of congratulations from his Iranian counterpart on his assignment to the post. He also invited him to visit Iran. As for the Tajik Ambassador Zubaydov Zubaydullo Najotovich, he too delivered an identical message from Sheikh Nasser’s Tajik counterpart and invited him to his country. Later yesterday, the minister hosted Chairman of the National Union of First Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Sheikh Nasser Kuwaiti Students - US branch - Talal Al-Enezi, who invited him to attend Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah meets with the Tajik Ambassador to Kuwait Zubaydov Zubaydullo. the union annual convention in the United States — KUNA Established 1961 3 Local Wednesday, February 21, 2018 Minister reiterates Kuwait’s support to Palestinian cause

Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled meets President Abbas in New York

NEW YORK: Kuwait is keen on supporting the latest developments of the Palestinian cause.” Palestinian cause; the principal issue for Arabs and Meanwhile, Palestinian Foreign Minister Riyadh Al- Muslims, Kuwait’s Deputy Premier and Foreign Maliki lauded “the State of Kuwait’s immensely hon- Minister Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al- orable and supportive stance. If it was not for Sabah said yesterday. “I was honored to meet Kuwait’s membership at the Security Council, we President Abbas, as we talked about Kuwait’s chair- would have not been able to come here, and manship of the UN Security Council in February and President Abbas would not have been able to attend its efforts to shed light on Arab causes, primarily the the session.” He voiced Palestine’s indebted gratitude Palestinian one. It is con- to Kuwait’s leadership, rep- sidered the earliest file at resented by His Highness the the UN, a matter that Amir, as well as to the should seize to happen,” Foreign Minister and per- Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Palestine is the manent delegate to the UN. said in a press release after “Kuwait worked as hard meeting Palestinian principal issue as it could to provide such President Mahmoud Abbas historic opportunity for earlier in the day. “There for Arabs and Palestine and its president must be a solution to this to attend and participate in case according to a time- Muslims this significant session, line and based on interna- especially after US tional community provi- President Donald Trump’s sions,” he noted. decision to recognize “Such provisions include the two-state solution, Jerusalem as capital of Israel,” Malki underlined. “We establishing the Palestinian state based on the 1967 realize that Kuwait’s position obliges it to allow the borders with East Jerusalem as capital and as stipu- Israeli delegation to respond to President Abbas’s lated in the Arab Peace Initiative, all of which are speech, as it is a Security Council mechanism.” principles the international community should see to Attending President Abbas’s meeting were implement,” he said. Assistant Foreign Minister and Sheikh Sabah Al- “We are coordinating with our Palestinian brothers Khaled’s office director Ambassador Sheikh Dr regarding the file presented at the Security Council, Ahmad Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Sabah, Head of the as well as during activities at the UN,” the Kuwaiti top Kuwaiti Permanent Mission to the UN Ambassador diplomat noted. “The participation of the Palestinian Mansour Al-Otaibi and Assistant Minister for President at the UNSC session is important in order International Organizations’ Affairs Minister Delegate NEW YORK: Kuwait’s Deputy Premier and Foreign Minister Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al- for the international community to be briefed about Abdullah Al-Hain. — KUNA Sabah meets with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas. — KUNA

KIPCO announces Generation 8 of Proteges program

By Nawara Fattahova sponsored the seventh generation of the Proteges program - Kmala, in KUWAIT: The Kuwait Projects addition to numerous services from Company (Holding) KIPCO held a other subsidiary companies,” added press conference yesterday at KIP- Bu Rahma. CO Tower to announce continuing its Abeer Al-Omar, Director, CSR long-term strategic partnership with Department, KIPCO, said renewing The Proteges. This was the launch of the strategic partnership with The the partnership for Generation 8 of Proteges comes as a part of KIPCO’s the Proteges program. support and encouragement of talent- The Proteges is a non-profit men- ed youth in order to build a responsi- torship program designed to posi- ble generation. “We totally trust the tively influence the youth and push achievements of the Proteges pro- them towards realizing their own gram and the excellent quality of potential and becoming their graduates every year. Twenty-five improved selves. It is an all-inclusive students are accepted every year, program that combines workshops, who are carefully selected, and who lectures, activities, challenges, games, work on their graduation program to and fun; all guided by a group of the succeed,” she pointed out. most talented experts. This program KIPCO supports the Proteges was founded to provide life and lead- program completely to ensure its ership skills to Arab generations. continuity. “We aim to make the “Young Arab people lack those Proteges program reach the desired skills which are required to improve level of its founders and instructors and develop the community. Our main through providing the services and goal is to search for talented youth products of its subsidiary companies. and give them a chance to excel. We This allows the accomplishment of hope that these young people will each season in the best way and pro- benefit from their participation in the viding for the needs of students. Proteges program and will gain Eight subsidiary companies of KIP- experience and knowledge that will CO are sponsoring this program change their lives forever,” said Yarub annually - Burgan Bank, KAMCO, Bu Rahma, Co-Founder and Mentor United Real Estate Company, Gulf of Proteges. Insurance Group, Qurain Bu Rahma thanked HH the Amir, Petrochemical Company, American sponsors and partners for their sys- University of Kuwait, OSN, Kuwait tematic and continuous support, Hotels Company and United which made the Proteges program Networks. successful for the past seven years. Registration is still open for this “All subsidiary companies of KIPCO year’s program. “Youth between 16- have supported the Proteges during 24 years of age are welcome to regis- the past five years. For instance, the ter in the Proteges as soon as possi- American University in Kuwait ble. The Proteges will kick off on June offered its campus to host training 24 for six weeks. Applications for courses taking place in Kuwait. Also, Generation 8 can be submitted online OSN channels have broadcast the at www.theproteges.org,” stressed commercials of the program. Dana Hamada, Program Manager, Recently, the Gulf Insurance Group Proteges.

KUWAIT: (From left) Dana Hamada, Abeer Al-Omar and Yarub Bu Rahma attend the press conference. — Photo by Yasser Al-Zayyat 4 Established 1961 Local Wednesday, February 21, 2018

Photo of the Day

KUWAIT: A picture showing drones lined up to create the word ‘Kuwait’ in Arabic during Zain Kuwait’s recent show featuring 300 drones. —KUNA Zain awarded ‘Best Mobile Operator’ & ‘Best Internet Service Provider’ in Kuwait for 2017 Service Hero’s awarding ceremony for service leaders KUWAIT: For the sixth time, Zain, the leading telecommu- rates of customer satisfaction. The recognition from nication company in Kuwait, was awarded ‘Best Mobile Service Hero for the sixth time demonstrates Zain’s com- Operator’ and ‘Best Internet Service Provider’ in Kuwait mitment in providing its customers with the highest levels for the year 2017 Service Hero, the creators of Kuwait’s of service. only customer satisfaction index. The company ranked first Service Hero has appointed an Independent Advisory among the telecommuni- Council comprised of aca- cations sector in two cat- demic institutions as well egories for achieving the as leading business pro- highest customer satisfac- Company fessionals. As a neutral tion scores by providing panel of experts, the the best quality service launched Council’s function is to standards. supervise the assessment The awards ceremony, advanced and ensure fair and empir- held in Symphony Style ical results that adhere to Hotel, witnessed the programs for all procedures and norms. attendance of many pri- This award reinforces vate sector leaders from customers Zain’s commitment in across various fields. The maintaining the values of award came after an in- its brand. The company is depth evaluation by an motivated to continue its independent advisory council, which recognized Zain’s role pledge in providing exclusive services to meet the needs KUWAIT: Waleed Al Khashti, Zain Kuwait’s Corporate Communications and Relations Director (left) in launching advanced programs and exceptional promo- of its customers as well as to facilitate their personal, pro- receives one of Zain’s awards. tions for its customer base, as well as playing a leading fessional, and business needs. role in the development of the telecommunications sector. Service Hero was established by a team of profession- council that is academic and independent, which assures ure the satisfaction level in the market by real consumers Zain received the ‘Best Mobile Operator’ award and als keen on identifying companies that are service lead- results that are impartial, objective and accurately reflect in order to help and empower companies to improve their ‘Best Internet Service Provider’ award for achieving high ers in their market. This team is backed by an advisory people’s preference. Service Hero’s main goal is to meas- service levels.

own abilities and set them up to achieve their potential. success, while instilling confidence along the way. We have ABK launches The bank will continue training and developing the group a pool of young talent in this country and we hope to nur- throughout the year. ture them into key roles in the banking sector.” Hamza Enki, General Manager of Human Resources at The event was also attended by senior ABK leaders, Young Kuwaiti ABK said : “ABK is very serious about the development of who shared their professional experience with the younger future Kuwaiti leaders. This program will fast track them workforce by providing leadership insights and effective Development to become managers, and ensure a smooth transition to management tips to succeed in the banking industry. Program KUWAIT: In a move to help its employees reach their potential, Al-Ahli Bank of Kuwait (ABK) launched its inau- gural Young Kuwaiti Development Program earlier this month at the Residence Inn by Marriott Kuwait City. The Young Kuwaiti Development Program is designed to nurture ABK’s young workforce who were handpicked as high potential, by familiarizing them with the skills required to become an effective manager and leader in the future. The 10-month program will enable participants to learn about front-line management and supervision practices. In addition, they will be exposed to different techniques to boost their productivity and ensure effective time manage- ment. These high potential candidates will also be sensi- tized to the importance of maintaining a high level of financial awareness in line with industry best practice. At the end of the program, participants will leave with a KUWAIT: Abdulla Al-Sumait (DCGM, ABK), Fawzy Al-Thunayan (GM, Board Affairs, ABK) and Hamza Enki wealth of knowledge that will instill confidence in their (GM, HRD, ABK) pose for a group picture with the Young Kuwaiti Development Program attendees. Established 1961 5 Local Wednesday, February 21, 2018 Two more Philippine Embassy officials recalled over maid’s death Embassy has repatriated 2,500

By Ben Garcia

KUWAIT: Two more Philippine used car spare parts he bought were not Embassy officials in Kuwait were Addicts say they working. The Indian mechanic went to hospital recalled in connection with the death of then to the police and lodged a complaint. He Filipino housemaid Joanna Demafelis, use shabu to treat told police that he did not know if the sold whose body was found inside a freezer spare parts worked or not. He gave police the in a Maidan Hawally apartment two license plate number of the citizen’s car. weeks ago. Labor Attache to Kuwait depression Detectives are handling the case. Attorney Alex Padaen and his assistant KUWAIT: Three drug users told police upon Lily Pearl Guerero were asked to return Charges dropped their arrest that they abused shabu (metham- to Manila on Monday night. Last week, An Egyptian butcher dropped theft charges phetamine) because it is an effective treatment another assistant labor attache at the after he discovered the thief was the son of his for depression, but they were sent to the embassy’s Philippine Overseas Labor Syrian neighbor. The Syrian man had noticed a Drugs Control General Department (DCGD) Office (POLO) Sarah Conception was strange wallet in his son’s room, and when he anyway. Police noticed a car parked in a dark recalled for inaction when the family opened it, he found out that the civil ID area with the three persons inside. The sus- asked for help when they couldn’t reach belonged to the butcher. He also found KD pects were arrested after police found a bag Joanna. Their request was accepted by 264 in the wallet. His son denied any wrong- containing shabu with them. They were arrest- the office but little effort was exerted. “I doing at first, then said he had opened a draw- KUWAIT: Filipino nationals wait outside their country’s embassy building yester- ed and charged with possession of drugs for am preparing to go back home. I can- er and stolen the wallet. The thief was admon- day as they prepare to leave Kuwait and avail an amnesty for illegal residents. personal use. not speak anymore on behalf of — Photos by Ben Garcia ished by his father, who returned the wallet to POLO,” said Padaen yesterday when the butcher and apologized to him. He asked Smuggling foiled asked if he could comment on the repa- him to punish his son in any way he wanted, have availed of the amnesty, with President Rodrigo Duterte provided Shuwaikh customs officers foiled an triation of about 610 Filipinos yester- but the Egyptian refused to punish him and around 2,500 more who want to leave. free chartered flights by Philippine attempt to smuggle 4,000 imported liquor day as part of amnesty by the Kuwaiti dropped the charges. “We have applications pouring in Airlines and Cebu Pacific at 4:00 pm bottles and paan found inside an abandoned government. everyday and we hope they will be and 5:00 pm respectively. container. The container arrived from a Gulf The recall order was confirmed by Taking advantage cleared soon so they can go back Asked for the confirmation of country three months ago and no one claimed Philippine Ambassador to An Iraqi and Jordanian along with a female Duterte’s visit, the ambassa- it, so officers opened it, removed computer Kuwait Rene Villa. “Yes, they citizen confessed to police that they use drugs dor said the invitation was sets from it, and found the liquor and paan. A were recalled, but I am not privy together, but they had differences on how to received on Monday from search is underway to find out the owner. get it. The citizen said the expats took advan- to the order. But if it is the case, HH the Amir, but no confir- I humbly request the Manila tage of her need for drugs, so they gave it to 80 to 100 mation has been given. “I Forged banknotes office to immediately send their her in exchange of making her sell it to asked about it in Manila - Two citizens were placed under arrest after replacements, because we need addicts. Ahmadi police stopped the three in a people arrive they said they have just they were caught in Surra in an abnormal con- people on the ground to help us car for being in an abnormal condition, and received the invite, and dition with forged KD 10 and KD 5 banknotes due to the amnesty and the to the embassy found what seemed to be a herbal material there is no reply yet from on them. Police found one of them is an ex- labor ban. Approximately 80 to with the Jordanian. The woman gave police Malacanang Palace if the convict in drugs cases. The two suspects and 100 people arrive daily. daily two bags containing white material and herbs, invite has been accepted. the forged currency were sent to the forgery Although five people from besides drugs paraphernalia, and said it But one thing is for sure - department to find how the notes were forged POLO and three from the belongs to the two, who give her drugs in Kuwait is very serious on and why. They will be later be sent to the Department of Foreign Affairs exchange for selling them to other addicts. addressing the labor prob- Drugs Control General Department. When the two were questioned, they said the (DFA) have arrived from Manila home,” he said. “From our side, we want lems and communication is now coming to help, we still need permanent offi- woman is the one who supplies them and they all Filipinos staying illegally to avail of from the highest officials of the Kuwaiti Physical assault cials who will represent POLO in only use it with her. The three were taken to the amnesty,” he said. A total of six government. So yes, we are happy on A man beat a car mechanic in Naayem Kuwait,” he added. the Drugs Control General Department. buses transported the 610 Filipinos to the new development,” the ambassador scrap area and broke his nose, because the — Translated by Kuwait Times from Al-Rai According to Villa, 2,500 Filipinos the airport yesterday. Philippine concluded.

Kuwait’s National celebrations have come to epitomize Interior Ministry the gaiety of such festive occasions. The minister made his remarks while presiding over a meeting to ensure that security measures are in place ahead of the pardons imprisoned national holidays. He urged citizens and expatriates alike to enjoy the festivities and cooperate with securi- police officers ty forces to guarantee their safety, read a statement by the Kuwaiti interior ministry. KUWAIT: All police officers held behind bars for Addressing security forces, Sheikh Khaled Al-Jarrah restraint cases will be freed on the occasion of the advised them to remain alert and prepared in their National days, the Ministry of Interior announced yes- efforts to provide foolproof protection to the Kuwaiti terday. A ministry statement said Undersecretary people, which in turn, keeps the country on the path Lieutenant General Mahmoud Al-Dosari decided to towards prosperity. Meanwhile, Dosari said the interior free all the imprisoned policemen held for restraint minister’s explicit instructions would only accentuate offenses. The decision, taken upon instructions by the the jovial mood during national celebrations. The state- Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Sheikh ment also pointed out that the meeting outlined the Khaled Al-Jarrah Al-Sabah, will go into effect as of details of an intricate plan the ministry has concocted Saturday, February 24, 2018. in its determination to make sure that national celebra- Meanwhile, Sheikh Khaled Al-Jarrah said that tions go off without a hitch. — KUNA

industrial facilities have ventured out of the local market, Minister officially adding that promoting the bourse to emerging market status will reflect positively on the volume of liquidity. Kuwait jumped six places in the field of improving busi- halts private school ness environment worldwide and seeks to be in the top fees increase third in less than five years, Roudhan noted. Legal department By A Saleh There are 214 Kuwaitis and 13 expatriates working in Kuwait Municipality’s legal affairs department, the KUWAIT: Minister of Education and Minister of Higher Minister of Municipality Affairs Abdulwahab Al-Roumi Education Hamid Al-Azmi officially issued a decision said. Asked about the reason why no Kuwaiti lawyers yesterday with regards to private school fees for the have been appointed at the municipality since 2005, year 2018/2019. The decision included a halt on fee Roumi explained that appointments were halted in the increase for all private schools (American, English, bilin- legal affairs department’s cadre. He added that 1,867 gual, French, private Arabic, model Arabic, Indian, cases were handled by the department in 2015/2016. Pakistani, Filipino and the private Iranian school), and Separately, Director of Mubarak Al-Kabeer munici- approved the fees of 2017/2018 for 2018/2019. pality branch Falah Al-Shimmari said six engineering It also included that private and model Arab schools, offices and six contractors were referred to concerned Indian, Pakistani and Philippine schools must comply authorities in the municipality to face legal action for with the salaries issued in decision 19724/2002 issued violation of municipality laws. All construction licenses in on 18-19/11/2014 for the year 2018/2019, and they rep- the governorate will be reviewed on March 1, he said, resent the minimum salaries, provided that they do not adding that violations were found in several buildings affect any additional rights for workers in the school. under construction, while one building was removed. The private education department will approve fees Twelve other buildings were found in violation for for schools that are to be licensed or stages to be added adding extra floors, and removal procedures will be tak- to existing schools starting from 2018/2019 with the en next month, Shimmari said, adding that the punish- same mechanism, and these schools must comply with ment is not just financial, as the violator will remove part the rules and standards set by the education ministry. of his building at his own expense. The decision said the following penalties will be applied to schools that violate the rules of this decision: Funeral services The school will be warned in writing to remove the Kuwait Municipality provides all needs for the funeral violation within 30 days. If the violation is not removed, department, Deputy Director General for Services Affairs all school transactions will be put on hold at state Khalaf Al-Mutairi said, noting that the department does departments for one month, and the licensee must not need donations. “The department’s budget is sufficient, remove the violation during this period. If the violation is and all needs, including ambulances, administrative not removed during these two periods, the school license employees, gravediggers, and washers of dead bodies, in will be revoked effective at the end of school year in addition to shrouds, are available,” he explained. The state, which the violation occurred. The licensee must still represented by the municipality, presents its services free return the additional fees collected in violation of article of charge, Mutairi said, and denied that fees are collected 1 of the decision, and settle the salaries of workers. for washing or shrouding the dead. Mutairi’s statements come in response to reports claiming that the Ministry of Small and medium enterprises Social Affairs and Labor requested Kuwait Municipality’s Minister of Commerce and Industry and State approval for an application made by a local NGO to raise Minister for Youth Affairs Khaled Al-Roudhan said the funds for funeral services, which are offered by the state Public Authority for Industry (PAI) handed the National free of charge. The alleged project, called the ‘Hereafter Fund for SME Development 500,000 sq m of land for Homes,’ includes covering financial costs for funerals in small and medium enterprises (SMEs), adding that the Kuwait, constructing a women’s washing building in national fund financed 489 projects in 21 months from Sulaibkhat, a washing area for men in Subhan cemetery April 2016 to December 2017. Roudhan said 180 Kuwaiti and providing the basic needs for washing the dead. International WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2018 Father of ‘boy Defeats in Mideast driving IS fighters to Philippines smuggled in suitcase’ goes on trial Page 9 Page 8

EASTERN GHOUTA, Syria: Members of the Syrian civil defence evacuate an injured civilian on a stretcher from an area hit by a reported regime air strike in the rebel-held town of Saqba, in the besieged Eastern Ghouta region on the out- skirts of the capital Damascus yesterday. — AFP Nearly 200 killed in Syrian enclave

Situation spinning ‘out of control,’ UN warns

ARBIN: Air strikes hit Syria’s Eastern Ghouta for a third Moumtzis said on Monday. The UN has repeatedly called straight day yesterday, bringing the civilian death toll to for a month-long ceasefire across Syria’s front lines, from nearly 200 as the UN warned the situation in the rebel Eastern Ghouta to the Kurdish enclave of Afrin in the enclave was spinning “out of control”. Air strikes and rock- northwest, which Turkey threatened yesterday to lay siege et and artillery fire have battered the rebel-held enclave to in the coming days. since Sunday in apparent preparation for a government ground assault on the besieged region. ‘No words’ At least 194 civilians have been killed, among them 57 “February 19 was the one of the worst days that we’ve children, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said. ever had in the history of this crisis,” said an exhausted On Monday alone, 127 civilians, including 39 children, were doctor in a hospital in Eastern Ghouta. Identifying himself killed in the bombard- as Abu al-Yasar, he ment-the single bloodiest described treating a one- day for Eastern Ghouta in year-old brought into the four years. Fresh air Arbin hospital with blue strikes yesterday morning skin and a faint pulse, res- killed at least 50 civilians, At least 194 cued from under the rub- including 13 children, the ble. “I opened his mouth Britain-based war monitor killed, among to put in a breathing tube said. Held by rebels since and I found it packed with 2012, Eastern Ghouta is dirt,” Abu al-Yaar said. them 57 kids He pulled out the dirt the last opposition pocket ARBIN, Syria: A Syrian opposition fighter from the Failaq Al-Rahman brigade takes a position on top of a around Damascus and as fast as possible, put in damaged building on the frontline in the rebel-held enclave of Arbin in the Eastern Ghouta near President Bashar Al-Assad the breathing tube and is keen to retake it with an managed to save the Damascus.—AFP apparently imminent baby’s life. “This is just ground assault. one story from among empty space on the page. “Do those inflicting the suffer- Imminent ground assault The UN’s regional humanitarian coordinator for Syria hundreds of wounded.” The bloodshed prompted the UN ing still have words to justify their barbaric acts?” More Eastern Ghouta is mostly held by two hardline rebel Panos Moumtzis has warned that the targeting of civilians children’s agency UNICEF to issue a largely blank state- than 400,000 people live in Eastern Ghouta, which has groups-Jaish al-Islam and Faylaq Al-Rahman-though in the enclave “must stop now”. “The humanitarian situa- ment yesterday to express its anger. “We no longer have been surrounded by government troops since 2013. Food, jihadists have a smaller foothold. The factions often fire tion of civilians in East Ghouta is spiralling out of control. the words to describe children’s suffering and our out- medicine, and other basic necessities are nearly impossi- rockets and mortar rounds into residential neighborhoods It’s imperative to end this senseless human suffering now,” rage,” the agency said in a brief postscript beneath the ble to obtain. of east Damascus. —AFP

pendence drive, which eventually prompted Madrid Leading Catalan to impose direct rule on the region in October, sack its government and dissolve its parliament. of public defiance prompting a robust response from separatist latest Political asylum? 5 Iran security the Islamic Republic’s security forces. Police spokesman Montazer Al-Mahdi said that among the The Popular Unity Candidacy (CUP) held the more than 300 people arrested were the two drivers balance of power in Catalonia’s parliament during to leave Spain officers killed of the “death vehicles”. Around 30 police officers and that time, as Puigdemont’s ruling coalition lacked a some protesters were injured, he said. majority and relied on the smaller party’s 10 seats Majzooban, a website linked to the Gonabadi Sufis, GENEVA: A former Catalan lawmaker and major to pass legislation and advance his independence at Sufi protest said some protesters were shot by the police. figure in the region’s secession drive has fled to “roadmap.” It called for action on the street after a Photos posted on social media showed Dervishes Switzerland ahead of a court hearing and may seek banned independence referendum on October 1 LONDON: with faces covered in blood, and burning cars and asylum there, the sixth separatist to leave Spain in was marred by police violence. Gabriel is the par- Five members of Iranian security forces motorcycles apparently torched by protesters. Online months. In an interview with Switzerland’s Le ty’s most famous member, hugely popular with CUP were killed in Tehran yesterday night in clashes with videos showed police firing tear gas to disperse Temps newspaper published yesterday, Anna supporters for her fiery speeches in parliament in protesters from a religious order, 300 of whom were demonstrators. Sufism is considered one of the most Gabriel, a top member of the far-left separatist CUP favor of independence. In another interview with arrested, the police said. Members of the Gonabadi peaceful sects of Islam. Despite being under constant party, said she had decided to leave as she would Swiss television RTS, she said she could seek asy- Dervishes, who follow the mystical Sufi strain of pressure by the Iranian authorities, dervishes have no not have “a fair trial at home”. She also compared lum in Switzerland. The former university law pro- Islam, considered a threat by the theocratic establish- history of armed clashes with the government. the situation in Catalonia, whose separatist leaders fessor said she was first going to try to settle in the ment, clashed with riot police after gathering at a According to the New York-based Center for are under investigation for their attempt to break country and possibly get academic work. But “if I police station to demand the release of members of Human Rights in Iran (CHRI), several Dervishes were from Spain, to Turkey’s post-coup crackdown. can’t because there is an extradition request, I will their sect. Three riot police were killed when a bus arrested in the last two months. It said 10 were “I won’t go to Madrid. I’m wanted for my political ask for political asylum,” she said in fluent French. was driven into their ranks, a volunteer Basij militia- injured in the city of Kowar on Jan. 14 after police activities and the government press has already It is possible that a Spanish court will launch an man was run over by a car and another was stabbed, attacked a rally held to demand the release of Sufi declared me guilty,” she told the paper. “As I would- arrest warrant when Gabriel fails to turn up at officials said. Some Sufis also surrounded the house detainees. A UN Special Rapporteur on Human n’t get a fair trial at home, I looked for a country that today’s court hearing in Madrid. In Le Temps of their 90-year-old leader, Nourali Tabandeh, in the Rights in Iran voiced concern in 2017 about the “tar- could protect my rights.” Gabriel, in her early 40s, is newspaper, Gabriel said she has got death threats same neighborhood in northern Tehran, shouting they geting and harsh treatment” of members of various the latest separatist to leave the country after from far-right extremists, and charged that the would not tolerate his possible arrest. Sufi groups, saying they “continue to face arbitrary deposed Catalan president Carles Puigdemont and government was not “doing anything to safeguard The protests come weeks after a wave of anti-gov- arrest, harassment and detention, and are often four former regional ministers went to Belgium our security faced with fascists’ violence.” Gabriel ernment demonstrations in more than 80 towns that accused of national security crimes such as acting shortly after a failed bid to break from Spain. She accused Madrid of “repression,” likening the situa- resulted in 25 deaths and thousands of arrests. While against national security”. — Reuters was due to appear before a Supreme Court judge tion in Catalonia with “what is happening right now the Sufi protests are unrelated, they are another show yesterday over her role in Catalonia’s failed inde- in Turkey”. —AFP Established 1961 7 International Wednesday, February 21, 2018 New woes for Israeli Prime Minster as associates probed in graft cases Investigation focuses on Israeli communications group

JERUSALEM: Israeli police revealed yesterday they had dismissed any suggestion of illegality in his dealings with arrested the controlling shareholder and CEO of the coun- Elovitch or Bezeq. try’s biggest telecoms company, as well as two former offi- The Israel Securities Authority (ISA) last year began inves- cials with close ties to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, tigating suspicions that Elovitch meddled in the 2015 merger in a corruption case. The arrests in the investigation dubbed between Bezeq and its satellite TV unit YES for personal “Case 4000” came just days after police recommended financial gain. In its new probe, police suspect that Bezeq Netanyahu himself be indicted for bribery and fraud in other received regulatory benefits in return for enabling favorable cases, known as “1000” and “2000”. media coverage of Netanyahu on Walla, a news website that is Shaul Elovitch, a family friend of Netanyahu’s who con- also controlled by Eurocom. “This is a new investigation in the trols telecoms firm Bezeq through his Eurocom holding com- Bezeq case as a result of evidence raised in the ISA investiga- pany, was arrested along with his wife, his son and Bezeq’s tion,” a joint statement from the police and ISA said. “During CEO Stella Handler. the investigation suspicions Former Netanyahu mounted of offences of spokesman Nir Hefetz and integrity, money laundering former Communications laws and the securities laws Ministry Director-General which were carried out over Shlomo Filber, both Netanyahu under time.” known as close confidants In a Facebook post on of the prime minister, investigation in 2 Monday, Netanyahu - who were also arrested. All the has described the investiga- arrests took place on separate cases tions against him as a “witch Sunday, but the identities hunt” - said: “There has of the suspects were never been any payback or withheld for two days illegal act in interaction with under standard Israeli Elovitch.” Israeli media criminal procedure. reports said Netanyahu is Elovitch, his wife and son deny any wrongdoing, a likely to face questioning in the police Bezeq probe. A state- Eurocom spokeswoman said. A lawyer for Handler said she ment issued on Sunday by a personal spokesman to is cooperating fully with the investigation and denies the Netanyahu said all decisions related to Bezeq “were made allegations. Bezeq officials declined to comment. Filber’s according to recommendations of expert committees and ASHKELON, Israel: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu attends an inauguration ceremony for lawyer declined to comment. Hefetz’s attorney could not expert officials”. The ISA said in November it had enough a new emergency room at the Barzilai Hospital in the Israeli coastal city of Ashkelon yesterday. —AFP immediately be reached. Netanyahu, now in his fourth term, evidence to support criminal charges against senior Bezeq has denied any wrongdoing in the various investigations officials, leaving it to Tel Aviv prosecutors to decide whether which threaten his long dominance of Israeli politics. He has to indict.—Reuters its EU neighbors by building or modernizing checkpoints at crossings with Poland, Hungary, Slovakia and Romania. According to the EU, the projects were EU scraps Ukraine designed to cut border crossing times and improve cus- Turkey to lay toms procedures. border projects They foundered after a series of delays, missteps and siege to Afrin cost overruns involving local officials and contractors, KIEV: The European Union is shutting down a border according to internal Ukrainian government correspon- checkpoint scheme with Ukraine, deepening doubts dence, and correspondence between the European ANKARA: President Recep Tayyip about Kiev’s ability to deliver reforms in return for bil- Commission and the Kiev authorities provided by a Erdogan yesterday said Turkish lions in European aid. The project to upgrade six source at a government body. In a statement to Reuters, forces would soon besiege the town Ukrainian checkpoints on the EU’s eastern frontier was an EU spokesperson said: “Following our assessment we of Afrin as a Turkish cross-border launched in 2014, after Europe backed Kiev’s pro- concluded that the projects could not be finalized in offensive targeting a Kurdish militia Western leaders during the Crimean crisis. The scheme time. The 6 projects are now in the process of being enters its second month. On January aimed to help integrate Ukraine’s economy with those of closed, and the unspent money reimbursed.” —Reuters 20, Ankara launched an air and ground operation supporting Syrian rebels against the People’s Protection Units (YPG) in the Afrin region of northern Syria. Turkey views the YPG as a Syrian offshoot of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), which has been waging an insurgency AFRIN, Syria: A father comforts his wounded son who was injured against the Turkish state since 1984. in bombardment after he was taken out of intensive care at a hos- “In the coming days, swiftly, we will pital in Afrin yesterday. —AFP lay siege to the centre of the town of Afrin,” Erdogan told parliament. While some analysts say Turkey and month, 238 Olive Branch fighters- border with Turkey. The operation is pro-Ankara Syrian rebels have made among them both Turkish soldiers and likely to be further complicated slow advances, Erdogan defended the Syrian rebels-have been killed, along reports by the Syrian state news operation’s progress, saying it was to with 197 YPG fighters and 94 civil- agency SANA that pro-government avoid putting the lives of both its ians, Observatory figures show. forces were expected to enter Afrin troops and civilians needlessly “at risk”. Ankara strongly denies there have to counter the Turkish offensive. But, “We did not go there to burn it down,” been any civilian casualties. in what appeared to be a thinly-veiled he said, insisting the operation’s aim threat to Damascus, Erdogan yester- was to “create a safe and livable area” Warning Damascus day warned Turkey would brook no for Syrian refugees inside Turkey, who Jana Jabbour, a political science interference from outside forces. “We fled across the border after the conflict professor at Sciences Po university in will block the way of those who come began in 2011 and who now number Paris, said the Turks were “struggling to help from outside the city or the more than three million. to move forward” because of the region,” he said. The Turkish army says 32 of its “organization of the Kurdish YPG troops have been killed in the forces and their combativeness”. She Strained ties with US process. According to the Syrian said it was important to distinguish The operation strained already-dif- Observatory for Human Rights moni- between political rhetoric, “even ficult ties with Washington which has tor, Syrian rebels and Turkish forces political propaganda”, and the reality given weaponry to the YPG as part of have taken 35 villages since the start on the ground. its fight against Islamic State jihadists of the operation, most of them bor- On the ground, Turkish fighting in Syria. The US has called on Turkey dering Afrin. And Turkish security was now focused around the area of to show restraint, warning that the expert Abdullah Agar said troops Arab Wiran in northeast Afrin, the offensive risked diluting the fight involved in operation “Olive Branch” Observatory said. If captured, pro- against the jihadists. And Erdogan has had captured around 300 square Ankara forces would control 50 con- threatened to expand the offensive to kilometers of territory. Over the past tinuous kilometers of Afrin’s northern the YPG-held town of Manbij. —AFP

Egyptian court puts Sisi critic on terror list

CAIRO: An Egyptian court put former presidential candi- date Abdel Moneim Abol Fotouh on a terrorism list yester- day, state news agency MENA reported, following his arrest for alleged contacts with the banned Muslim Brotherhood. Abol Fotouh, a former Islamist who leads the Strong Egypt party, was arrested last week a day after returning from London, where he had given interviews sharply critical of President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi ahead of Abdel Moneim Abul Fotouh next month’s presidential election. The Interior Ministry said at the time that Abol Fotouh opinions,” Haridy said. Abol Fotouh along with 15 others held secret meetings with leaders of the Muslim were added to the list after an investigation by the state Brotherhood while in London to implement a plot to stir security prosecution found they had joined an outlawed unrest and instability in the country, accusations he organization “aiming to harm the interests of the state,” denied. Sisi is almost guaranteed to win a second term in a MENA said, without naming the organization. In an inter- presidential election slated for March 26-28, but the vote view with Al Jazeera Mubasher, a Qatar-based channel has been criticized by rights groups after a number of banned in Egypt, Abol Fotouh last week criticized Sisi in potential competitors called off their campaigns, citing unusually pointed terms, accusing him of pulling the army intimidation, and a top challenger was arrested. The elec- into politics, failing to curb deadly attacks by Islamist mili- toral commission has said that it will ensure the vote is fair tants and mismanaging the economy. and transparent. The 67-year-old physician quit the Muslim Abol Fotouh was among the first of several high-profile Brotherhood in 2011 after disagreements over the role of Egyptians to call last month for a boycott of the election. religion in politics and founded the more centrist Strong Individuals added to the terrorism list are generally sub- Egypt party. He mounted an independent bid for the pres- jected to an asset freeze and a travel ban and are permit- idency in 2012 and took nearly 18 percent of the vote in ted 60 days to appeal the decision. Abol Fotouh’s lawyer, the first round of elections. Egypt banned the Abdelrahman Haridy, told Reuters he had not yet been Brotherhood in 2013 after Islamist President Mohamed notified of the court’s decision but that the designation Morsi was ousted by the military following mass protests. could “easily” be appealed in court. “It’s clear that there is The group has since been declared a terrorist organiza- an insistence on tacking charges on to political figures in tion by the government but it maintains that its activities order to intimidate all politicians, even for just saying their are peaceful.—Reuters 8 Established 1961 Wednesday, February 21, 2018 International Father of boy smuggled into Spain in suitcase walks free Son’s testimony saves dad from jail CEUTA, Spain: A Spanish court yesterday allowed an Ivory Coast man to walk free, with only a small fine to pay, after his son was found crammed into a suitcase at a bor- der crossing. Prosecutors had initially sought a three-year prison term for Ali Ouattara, 45, for facilitating his son’s illegal entry into Europe and threatening the child’s life. “The child’s life was endangered, he was inhumanly curled up in a tiny suitcase, without ventilation,” judge Fernando Teson said as the trial got underway. The heart-rending photo of the boy went round the world in 2015, during the peak of Europe’s worst migrant crisis since World War II. The trial took place in Ceuta, a Spanish territory in Morocco which migrants from Africa CEUTA: Ivorian Ali Ouattara, 45, sits in court during his trial regularly try to reach by scaling high border fences or in Ceuta, a Spanish overseas territory in northern Morocco smuggled through in cars. As the trial drew to a close, yesterday. —AFP prosecutors asked that the court order Ouattara to pay a fine, because they found no evidence to prove the father knew his son would be trafficked in a suitcase. Ouattara, who has already spent a month behind bars, was ordered to pay a €92 ($114) fine by the three presiding judges. “It’s all over and we can begin to resume out lives, together, my wife, my daughter my son and I in Bilbao,” in northern Spain, Ouattara Smuggling said as he emerged from the court. His lawyer, Juan Isidro Fernandez, explained to the court how the boy attempt was a had been left with just his 18-year-old brother in Ivory Coast after their grandmother died. first in Ceuta CEUTA, SPAIN: Photo shows 8-year-old Ivorian boy Adou Ouattara hidden in a suitcase. —AFP The now 10-year-old boy, whose name is Adou, currently lives in a Paris suburb with his mother but ferry linking Melilla, another Spanish territory in Morocco, to job. While his wife and daughter were able to join him, the travelled to Ceuta to testify. Adou told the judges he southern Spain. The two Spanish enclaves are the only places Spanish authorities had rejected four requests for Adou to had difficulty breathing while in the suitcase, which he in Europe which share a land border with Africa. Adou was come because they deemed the father’s €1,300 ($1,600) was forced into by a “Moroccan girl”. It was ultimately his Paid traffickers Ä5,000 reunited with his mother soon after arriving in Ceuta, while his monthly salary insufficient to cover the family’s needs. A testimony that saved his father from jail. Adou said The desperate smuggling attempt was a first in Ceuta. But father was arrested shortly after the police discovery. desperate Ouattara was misled by traffickers in Ivory Ouattara had told him he would be taken “by car”, and that only three months later, a 27-year-old Moroccan died of Ouattara told the judge yesterday that he had been liv- Coast who charged him €5,000 ($6,200) and did not tell there had never been any mention of a suitcase. asphyxiation inside a suitcase placed in the trunk of a car on a ing in Spain legally for eight years, and that he had a stable him his son would be hidden in a suitcase. —AFP

Disputed ‘unity’ Legacy of history In 1972, the original federal structure was scrapped in a national referendum that drives Cameroon approved the creation of one state. Calls for Who are Cameroon’s a breakaway English-speaking state mount- ed in the 1990s, with demands for a referen- rift and secession dum on independence accompanied by English-speaking low-level unrest. In 2001 banned protest rallies turned violent. Several people were PARIS: Unrest has spread in Cameroon’s killed when security forces moved in and separatists, CACSC? English-speaking regions since October as secessionist leaders were arrested. The a secessionist movement has pushed for separatist Southern Cameroons National LIBREVILLE: Separatists in Cameroon’s restive independence. Tensions can be traced back Council (SCNC) set up a “government” in English-speaking regions have faced a violent crack- to events a century ago, when Britain and Britain and leaders moved into exile. down since declaring the creation of “Ambazonia”, a France occupied Cameroon, taking over self-proclaimed republic independent from the majori- Germany’s major colony in West Africa. ty French-speaking country. The violence has helped 2016 flare-up Lawyers in the English-speaking fuel support for a growing separatist movement, World War I split regions, which are also strongholds for the including armed groups, who in turn have carried out a Cameroon was a Germany colony until political opposition, went on strike in late string of attacks on police and the military. Dozens on 1916, when British and French troops forced 2016 to demand the right to use Anglo- both sides have died, and tens of thousands have fled the Germans out. The two countries divided Saxon common law. Teachers followed, into neighboring Nigeria. The political drive for the it into separate spheres of influence that protesting at the appointment of francoph- separatist cause began in 2016 after police broke up were later formalized by the League of ones in the region’s education system. demonstrations by English-speaking lawyers and Nations, the forerunner to the UN. The MFUM, Nigeria: Photo shows Cross River, the border and river that connects Nigeria with Tensions rose in December, when the teachers who protested against working in French. much larger French colony gained inde- Cameroon near Mfum border station, in Cross Rivers State, southeast Nigeria. —AFP national flag was torched at protests and a The Cameroon Anglophone Civil Society pendence in 1960. A year later, the British separatist version hoisted. Clashes in some Consortium (CACSC), locally known as “the colony also gained independence. Some of and some were later freed. In October, Nigeria role areas left several people reported dead. Consortium”, was formed to campaign against what the English-speaking areas choose to join several thousand defied a ban on Since January 2018, much of the focus Prime Minister Philemon Yang, himself an they viewed as discrimination and marginalization by newly-formed Nigeria, others to become protests to mark the anniversary of the has shifted to Nigeria, which the anglophone, ruled out secession-”Unity is the francophone majority. Although it campaigned for part of the federation of Cameroon. country’s October 1961 unification. Cameroon authorities suspected was federal ties-not secessionism-the campaign met with the bedrock of our country.” Separatist leaders issued a symbolic being used as a safe haven for separatists. unyielding opposition from octogenarian President Paul English-speaking regions declaration of independence. The two neighbors have experienced ten- ‘Independence’ declared Biya. The Consortium was dissolved in January 2017, The two mainly English-speaking south- “We are no longer slaves of sions in the past over various issues, but In January 2017 senior secessionist two of its leaders were arrested, and within the anglo- ern provinces are home to around a fifth of Cameroon,” said Sisiku Ayuk Tabe, the forged cooperation on fighting the Boko activists were arrested and charged with phone protest movement, the pendulum began to swing Cameroon’s 23 million population. Named self-declared “president” of a new Haram jihadist insurgency. On January 29, terrorism and rebellion. New protests in favor of independence. the Northwest Region and Southwest republic called “Ambazonia”. Biya, in Nigeria extradited 47 anglophone sepa- brought several cities to a standstill, but Region, they jut into southeastern Nigeria. power since 1982 and standing for ratists, including Tabe, which was followed the government hit back by cutting off Raising Ambazonia The English-speaking areas were allowed reelection in 2018, branded the seces- by fresh violence in English-speaking internet access to flashpoint areas for On October 1, prominent leader Sisiku Ayuk Tabe some self-governance. But many English- sionists “a band of terrorists” and regions of Cameroon. Cameroon security several weeks, alleging the spread of declared the self-proclaimed republic of “Ambazonia”, speakers complained of discrimination at the ordered a crackdown with curfews, raids forces, according to local sources, have “fake news”. In an apparent effort to named after Ambas Bay on the Atlantic Ocean. The hands of the francophone majority in areas and other restrictions. Dozens of people- also been seen among the estimated calm the situation, President Paul Biya state has not been recognized internationally. Biya such as education and the justice system, and members of the security forces as well as 30,000 people who have fled the violence halted the secessionists’ trials in August countered with a crackdown and enlisted the help of alleged national wealth was not shared fairly. civilians-have died. to southeast Nigeria.— AFP neighboring Nigeria in denying a haven to the “terror- ists”. In January, Ayuk Tabe and 46 of his supporters were extradited by Nigeria to Cameroon despite claims that many of them had lodged asylum applications. In this climate of spiralling mistrust and revenge, calls for Mission unclear separatism, rather than federalism, are dominant. The loudest calls have come from the Southern Cameroons Ambazonia Consortium United Front in army takeover (SCACUF), headed by Ayuk Tabe, which advocates peaceful means to advance independence. Many of its of Rio de Janeiro members are activists with a background in teaching, law or farming, but it also counts former leaders of the outlawed Southern Cameroon National Council (SCNC), RIO DE JANEIRO: The takeover of Rio de Janeiro’s secu- which began the campaign for independence back in rity by army generals was meant to bring clarity to a city 1995. “Negotiations are our best weapon,” said Millan mired in chaotic crime, but three days later the exact mis- Atam, a SCACUF leader. But since the crackdown and sion remains unclear. President Michel Temer signed a the roundup of Ayuk Tabe, the peaceful stance is being decree Friday putting the police in Rio under military com- outflanked by radicals, some of whom advocate taking mand, the first such measure since the end of a two- up arms against “the colonialist occupying forces”. decade military dictatorship in 1985. Temer said it was “an extreme measure” aimed at getting a grip on runaway vio- ‘The argument of force’ lence by organized gangs. The International Crisis Group (ICG) estimates that The military is widely admired in Brazil. In fact it’s seen there are likely to be several hundred fighters. On by many as just about the only institution that works prop- February 11, these groups and some other separatist erly and is not corrupt. But does Temer really think the movements gathered in an umbrella organization called generals can resolve Rio’s deep-rooted problems? Critics the Ambazonia Recognition Collaboration Council are asking why the government is not, for example, send- (ARCC). Its most prominent member is a firebrand for- ing more teachers to the impoverished neighborhoods RIO DE JANEIRO: Soldiers stand guard along Flamengo beach, Rio de Janeiro. —AFP mer student trade unionist, Lucas Cho Ayaba, who where crime thrives. “Without quality education we won’t heads an armed group that calls itself the Ambazonia get anywhere. Nothing is done to help the young in the Defense Forces (ADF). The ADF claimed responsibility that Temer may be considering running for re-election in Can residents trust in the generals more? favelas to join the job market,” said Marcos Valerio Alves, for kidnapping a government official on Sunday in October. He has previously indicated he would not try but “People are afraid. The decree may be nothing more who coordinates residential associations in the Complexo Batibo, a town near the Nigerian border. an improving economy, after two painful years of reces- than politics, but people there are in the firing line,” said It says it has “thousands of fighters,” although com- do Alemao group of favelas, among the most dangerous in sion, may give him new confidence. “His popularity is rock Anderson Franca, author of the book “Rio in Flames” and a mentators say the figure more likely to be around a Rio. “Children only go to school in the morning or in the bottom and he is trying to change the tendency to see if he frequent poster on social media about the situation in the hundred or so. “We have a bloc defence strategy-every afternoon and the rest of the time they’re in the street, could manage to be a candidate,” Lemgruber said. The favelas. “Military intervention in Rio’s security has always village, every group of young people can fight for where they watch other young people walking about with problem for him, she said, is that there’ll be no quick, con- been violent, aggressive, repressive. I don’t think the army Ambazonia, and we are ready to help them,” he told assault rifles. What future can they have?” vincing fix in Rio. “You can get short term results but it will will come to promote dialogue,” he said. “The army is not AFP. Another armed group is Southern Cameroons be difficult to reorganize the police in that period.” answerable to anyone and soldiers can only be tried before Defence Forces (SOCADEF), led by Ebenezer Playing politics military tribunals, which weakens the ability to denounce Akwanga, like Cho Ayaba an ex-student trade unionist. Sociologist Julita Lemgruber, who specializes in securi- Favelas in firing line police abuses.” In the late 1990s, the two were allies in challenging the ty issues at the Candido Mendes University, said the army In the favelas, where most of the violence is concen- Defense Minister Raul Jungmann raised new questions moderate strand of separatism, taking their slogan intervention “could serve as Temer’s political project.” The trated, many unanswered questions also remain over by suggesting that authority should be given for “collec- about “the force of argument” and reversing it, to “the bid to aid Rio has given Temer a welcome break in news what military control of security will mean on the tive arrest warrants,” which would apparently allow argument of force.” The ADF and SOCADEF have coverage from a near constant stream of corruption scan- ground. Shootouts between rival gangs or between searches for suspects to extend far beyond a single claimed responsibility for most of the attacks in the dals and his failure to push through controversial cuts to gangs and police are daily events in these neighbor- address. At the Supreme Court, Justice Marco Aurelio anglophone areas. —AFP the pension system. Although he is the most unpopular hoods. In some cases, the police are themselves accused Mello aired “serious doubts” in an interview with Estado president on record, there have been growing whispers of working with the criminals. de Sao Paulo newspaper about Temer’s plan.—AFP Established 1961 9 International Wednesday, February 21, 2018 ‘Thousand lira’ man: Italy’s ex-PM Berlusconi baffles as vote nears Four-time PM makes string of confusing statements

ROME: At a recent business conference, Silvio Berlusconi I don’t have the 75.3 percent approval I used to have.” puzzled his audience by boasting that, as prime minister, According to a Demos poll published on Friday, he had made sure Italians got monthly pensions of 1,000 Berlusconi came a lowly 8th on the list of Italy’s most lire - about the cost of an espresso. Leading a centre- respected political leaders, with an approval rating of 26 right coalition that tops polls ahead of a national election percent. Charges of paying for sex with an underage on March 4, the 81-year-old leader is showing signs of prostitute eventually led to an acquittal, but the only fragility as he fights back from a ban from holding public definitive conviction after numerous legal cases against office, sex scandals and legal entanglements. him - in 2013, for tax fraud - was enough to banish him “I have fought back from parliament. against all the nastiness, Earlier in the campaign, all the attacks, all the lies he said Malta had “14 mil- that were thrown at me, lion workers” (its popula- from Bunga Bunga to the tion is less than 450,000) minors and all the rest,” Centre-right and promised to build “the he told the Rome confer- straits of Sicily” (he meant ence. He also made a leads ahead a bridge over the Straits of number of verbal slips, Messina to connect Sicily saying tax evasion in of election to the mainland). On his Italy totaled 800,000 Canale 5 television chan- euros, a fraction of the nel, he boasted of having real figure, and economic “eliminated 411,000 taxes.” output was just 1,600 Italy’s fiscal jungle is esti- euros, rather than 1.7 mated to impose around trillion. Yet to appear at any political rallies ahead of the 100 taxes, not hundreds of thousands. He took a break vote, the billionaire has focused his campaign on cosy TV from campaigning in late January, prompting concerns chat shows-and has cancelled some of those, pleading about his health 2-1/2 years after undergoing major heart tiredness. surgery. He said he was feeling well but tired out by “He’s showing his age,” said Giovanni Orsina, professor choosing candidates for the election. of modern history at Rome’s Luiss University. “In the past 10 years the losses, the hits he has taken have obviously ‘He built an empire’ had a role in reducing his political abilities.” Support for Berlusconi’s continued appeal to part of the electorate, ROME: Photo shows election posters in Rome ahead of March 4 general elections. —AFP his centre-right Forza Italia (Go Italy!) party has almost borne out in poll scores of roughly 16 percent for Forza halved since 2001, and the rallies with supporters waving Italia, often bewilders non-Italians. But for some voters, Milan real estate development, then founded Italy’s recovery has not stopped a rise in poverty or brought flags and singing “Thank Goodness for Silvio” as they did his old age and the fact he is already rich removes the biggest private broadcaster and owned AC Milan soccer unemployment down to the European Union average. during his 2008 campaign are nowhere to be seen. Forza suspicion that he is in politics for personal gain, a com- club for more than 30 years. “We have hit rock-bottom,” said Bracciale. Italia only has a good chance of sharing victory thanks to mon fear in a country where corruption thrives. “If I were “We are putting our hope in a self-made man who Berlusconi “is the only one who can help us get out of a deal with far-right allies the League and Brothers of him, with all his money, I’d be lazing about,” said support- built an empire,” said Giuseppe Bracciale, a 52-year-old this situation.” The centre-right’s key proposal is a flat Italy, whose radical messages he often steps in to temper. er Antonio D’Arcangelis, 53, a now jobless former state cook from Torre del Greco in southern Italy, who plans tax-a policy Berlusconi has repeatedly floated since “I am still ahead of all the other political leaders even employee. “He must be doing it because he believes in it.” to vote for Forza Italia. Promises to cut taxes and raise entering politics in 1994, but never managed to imple- though I can’t stand for office,” he said, his face devoid of Many of his fans are attracted by the business acumen pensions, long the core of Berlusconi’s campaigns, still ment despite spending more than nine years in power wrinkles thanks to repeated cosmetic surgery. “Obviously, that made him a billionaire. He made his first big money in resonate with many in Italy, where a modest economic between 1994 and 2011. —Reuters

‘Baby factory’ man News in brief wins custody of 13 Two lynched in India kids born to Thai NEW DELHI: Two men suspected of raping and murdering a five-year-old girl in a remote northeast Indian state were dragged from a police station and lynched by an enraged surrogates mob, police said yesterday. The girl’s disappearance from Lohit district of Arunachal Pradesh state, and the discovery of her badly disfigured body, sparked widespread anger. The BANGKOK: A wealthy Japanese man was yesterday accused, both plantation workers from neighbouring Assam granted “sole parent” rights to 13 children he fathered state, were being questioned by police when a hundreds- through Thai surrogate mothers, in a court ruling that strong mob carrying weapons stormed the compound on paves the way for him to take them to Japan. Mitsutoki Monday. “The mob damaged the station and took away the Shigeta, 28, became the centre of a “baby factory” scandal accused before beating them to death with clubs, hammers in 2014 after Thai police found a plush Bangkok apartment and stones,” Lohit police chief Issac Pertin said. —AFP packed with infants under the care of 24-hour nannies. A probe later found he had fathered 19 children in total, 13 surrogate babies living in Thailand and six others living in Cambodia and Japan, according to an official from Oxfam sex scandal Thailand’s Social Development and Welfare Department. LONDON: Oxfam said yesterday it was investigating 26 Four of the six children living in Cambodia and Japan new cases of sexual misconduct which had been reported were from Thai surrogates. Shigeta’s bizarre case threw a since a scandal broke earlier this month over its handling of spotlight on the kingdom’s unregulated rent-a-womb a 2011 case in Haiti. The British charity’s chief executive industry, prompting authorities to bar foreigners in 2015 Mark Goldring told a parliamentary committee in London from paying for Thai surrogates. Shigeta, reportedly the that 16 of the cases related to its international operation. son of a Japanese IT tycoon, left the country in the wake “There are 26 cases that have come forward... They range of the scandal and has never directly explained why he BANGKOK: Kong Suriyamontol (center-with sunglasses), the Thai lawyer for Japanese national Mitsutoki in time frame from more recent events to long historic fathered so many children. But he later took Thailand’s events where people did not report them at the time,” Ministry of Social Development and Human Security to Shigeta, speaks to the press after his client was granted paternity rights to his children, at a juvenile court in Bangkok yesterday.—AFP Goldring said. “We really want people to come forward,” court to seek custody of the children. he added. Goldring apologised “wholeheartedly” on behalf On Tuesday a Bangkok court granted him legal rights to of Oxfam to the committee, which said it would conduct its take the children, saying he had ample money to care for deemed the children would be able to adapt to new sur- court battle to bring back a baby after learning the own inquiry into abuses in the foreign aid sector.—AFP them and had prepared nurses and nannies at a safe resi- roundings. “The foster homes will seek my authorisation Australian father was a convicted paedophile. Sam dence in Japan. “For the happiness and opportunities the 13 to release the children to their father’s custody... it won’t Everingham, director of the Australia-based consultancy children will receive from their biological father-who does take more than 10 days,” Vitat Tachaboon of the Social Families Through Surrogacy, said Shigeta’s case was an Iran blasts Sweden not have a history of bad behaviour-the court rules them to Development and Welfare Department told reporters. “abuse of surrogacy” services that had helped give the be the plaintiff’s legal children,” the Central Juvenile Court Shigeta’s mother has also been visiting the children in controversial industry a bad name. TEHRAN: Iran has formally criticised Sweden over its said in a statement which did not mention Shigeta by name Thailand and “they have got used to her”, he added. After Thailand clamped down on the trade surrogacy decision to grant nationality to an Iranian professor sen- for privacy reasons. Shigeta, who did not attend the trial, agencies quickly migrated to neighboring Cambodia, tenced to death on spying charges, the foreign ministry was deemed “sole parent” of the children after the Thai sur- Legal tussles which followed suit and barred the industry in 2016. In said yesterday. Sweden granted citizenship last week to rogates had signed away their rights, the court added. Shigeta hired the Thai surrogates before the ban on recent months there have been signs the business is Ahmadreza Djalali, a Stockholm-based specialist in emer- His lawyer Kong Suriyamontol said he would contact foreigners. Police said he paid them between $9,300 and growing in Laos, an opaque communist country with no gency medicine. He was arrested during a brief visit to Iran Thai authorities about the next steps to transfer the chil- $12,500 each. Thailand’s rewriting of its surrogacy laws restrictions on surrogacy. Some surrogacy agencies are in April 2016 and found guilty in October of passing infor- dren from state custody, adding that the timeline would sparked a series of legal tussles, including a 14-month cus- now offering to carry out the embryo transfer in Laos mation about two Iranian nuclear scientists to Israel’s depend on the “readiness” of the youngsters-most of tody war between a same-sex couple and a Thai surrogate and then provide pregnancy care for the surrogate in Mossad intelligence agency that led to their assassinations. whom are aged around four. Thai officials had visited who was eventually forced to give up the baby girl. Thailand, a wealthier country with vastly superior med- Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Bahram Ghasemi said Shigeta’s homes in Japan as well as in Cambodia and Another high-profile case saw a Thai surrogate lose a ical facilities.—AFP the decision to grant a convict citizenship was “very strange, unprincipled and questionable” and that the Swedish ambassador was summoned on Monday. —AFP respectively from Marawi. Murad said fighters Defeats in Mideast from Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Middle East were known to have entered the Philippines, Mexico probes police including a Middle Eastern man holding a Canadian MEXICO CITY: Mexican authorities said yesterday they driving IS fighters passport. are investigating whether police in the western state of That man went to a stronghold of the Abu Jalisco participated in the disappearance of three Italian Sayyaf militant group, notorious for kidnapping to the Philippines citizens there. The Naples natives reportedly went missing and piracy, Murad said. Murad said militants had on Jan 31 after being detained by police at a gasoline sta- been recruiting fighters in remote Muslim commu- tion in the municipality of Tecalitlan in southern Jalisco. nities, exploiting delays in the passage of legisla- MANILA: Foreign Islamic State fighters forced out State authorities are “evaluating, using available informa- tion aimed at addressing long-standing Muslim of Syria and Iraq have been arriving in the tion” whether police were involved in the disappearance, grievances, the Bangsamoro Basic law (BBL). Philippines with the intent of recruiting, and they said Jalisco general secretary Roberto Lopez. He said state “These extremists are going into madrasas, teach- have plans to attack two Philippine towns, the head authorities will collaborate in the investigation with ing young Muslims their own version of the Koran, of the country’s largest Muslim rebel group said Mexico’s attorney general’s office and foreign ministry and and some enter local universities to influence stu- yesterday. More than 1,100 people were killed last the Italian Embassy in Mexico. —Reuters year when pro-Islamic State militants attacked and dents, planting the seeds of hatred and violence,” held the Philippine city of Marawi for five months, he said. leading to massive destruction across the scenic Such a scenario would be a major headache for lakeside town. the military, which is fighting on multiple fronts on Boko Haram hits school the southern island of Mindanao to defeat home- That could happen in other cities if Congress KANO: Boko Haram jihadists launched an attack on a girls grown Islamic State loyalists, bandits and commu- fails to pass a law to allow Muslims in the southern boarding school in northeast Nigeria but the students and nist insurgents. Mindanao is under martial law. The Philippines to run their own affairs, according to teachers fled to safety, witnesses said yesterday. A convoy military has said remnants of the militant alliance Ebrahim Murad, leader of the Moro Islamic of fighters in pickup trucks descended on Dapchi village in that occupied Marawi were trying to regroup and Liberation Front, a separatist group which signed a the Bursari area of Yobe state around 6 pm targeting the were using cash and gold looted from Marawi to peace deal with the government in return for school, resident Sheriff Aisami said. “When they stormed recruit. Murad’s statement echoed those of greater autonomy. the village they began shooting and setting off explosives,” President Rodrigo Duterte, who last month urged “Based on our own intelligence information, for- MANILA: Murad Ebrahim, chairman of Moro Islamic Aisami said. “This drew the attention of the girls in the lawmakers to pass the BBL, or face re-igniting war eign fighters who were displaced from the Middle Liberation Front (MILF), reads a magazine with an image Girls Science Secondary School, so the girls and the teach- with separatists after two decades of peace. “We East continued to enter into our porous borders of Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte on the cover, ers were able to escape before the attackers got into the cannot decisively win the war against extremism if and may be planning to take two southern cities - during a Foreign Correspondents Association of the school.” Unable to kidnap the girls, the Boko Haram fight- we cannot win the peace in the halls of Congress,” Iligan and Cotabato,” Murad said. The two cities Philippines (FOCAP) forum in Manila yesterday. —AFP ers looted the school before fleeing. —AFP are 38 km (24 miles) and 265 km (165 miles) Murad said.— Reuters 10 Established 1961

Analysis Wednesday, February 21, 2018

Established 1961 The First Daily in The Arabian Gulf THE LEADING INDEPENDENT DAILY IN THE ARABIAN GULF ESTABLISHED 1961

Founder and Publisher YOUSUF S. AL-ALYAN Editor-in-Chief ABD AL-RAHMAN AL-ALYAN EDITORIAL : 24833199-24833358-24833432 ADVERTISING : 24835616/7 FAX : 24835620/1 CIRCULATION : 24833199 Extn. 163 ACCOUNTS : 24835619 COMMERCIAL : 24835618 P.O.Box 1301 Safat,13014 Kuwait. E MAIL :[email protected] Website: www.kuwaittimes.net

Kazakhstan frozen billions sound alarm for sovereign funds

hen a Belgian court ordered a bank to freeze $22.6 billion of assets held in trust for a WKazakhstan sovereign wealth fund (SWF), it set a worrying precedent for other SWFs. The case is one of several brought to courts in Europe by Moldovan businessman Anatolie Stati who is attempting to force the Kazakh government to pay up in a dispute about his energy investments in the oil-rich country. Court rulings imposing asset freezes in Belgium, the Netherlands, Sweden and Luxembourg are significant because they address the issue of whether SWFs should be treated as investment arms of governments, or as independent institutional investors. SWFs, which often invest the proceeds from the sale of national resources or manufactured goods, have traditionally enjoyed the legal immunity reserved for a sovereign to protect their assets in foreign jurisdictions. Poverty gnaws at Italian social fabric The rulings in the Kazakhstan case made waves because they ignore that immunity. “This is a danger- oberto Biondi’s 89-year-old mother has Alzheimer’s, is down the small clothing store he had opened as a teenager in percent goes to those aged over 65, which is why pension- ous and worrisome precedent for other funds,” said housebound and no longer recognizes her son. She is 1983. Like many Italians, he believes the arrival of the euro ers often play such a vital role in family finances. Istat says Paul Rose, an Ohio State University law professor spe- Ralso the family’s main breadwinner. Her state pension currency in 2002 marked the start of the country’s decline. having just one pensioner in a vulnerable household halves cializing in SWFs. “Lots of funds will be looking very of €800 ($990) a month covers her own living expenses and “Things went well before, but then money dried up. I strug- the risk of that family descending into outright poverty - but carefully at the outcome of this case and wondering those of Roberto and her grandson, both of whom are unem- gled on but eventually had to give up,” he said. With no major it is not a guaranteed safety net. whether their assets can be frozen.” The Kazakh gov- ployed and have little hope of finding jobs in Italy’s underde- industry in the area, he has never found a new job. Angela Grossi is 48 and unemployed. She gets financial ernment has said it will challenge the judgements. veloped south. “I have no idea how I will cope when she Unemployment in Italy stands at 10.8 percent, four percent- help from her elderly mother, but it was not enough to help Whether Kazakhstan succeeds in getting the accounts dies,” said Roberto, 53, as he shopped for food in the coastal age points higher than in 2008, while in the south it stands at her pay for rent so four years ago she and her two sons unfrozen or not, those watching the case reckon it is a town of Herculaneum under the shadow of Mount Vesuvius. almost 18.3 percent, up 7.2 points in a decade. moved into a squat along with 60 families in an unoccupied landmark for SWFs, whose $7 trillion in global invest- He receives no benefits of his own. “I am poor. I am not Youth unemployment in the south is 46.6 percent, 13 building in Rome. They were evicted last August and since ments range from real estate to equities and govern- ashamed to admit it, there are millions of others like me in points up on 2008 levels, spelling trouble for Bianchi’s son then Grossi and her boys, aged 12 and 14, have lived in tents ment bonds. Italy. This country isn’t working.” Danilo, 24, who sees little hope of building a career in Italy under an exposed church porch less than a mile from the In countries such as Norway, where disputes Italy holds national elections on March 4 and while much and is planning to move to London at the end of the month. Italian parliament. “Rome is full of people sleeping under the between investors and the government are more likely to campaigning has focused on the divisive issue of immigra- The rising tide of poverty and lack of economic opportuni- arcades, on the streets, under the bridges, but no one looks be dealt with through efficient and independent domes- tion, pollsters say voters are most concerned about the ties has led to a surge in emigration. Between 2006 and 2017, at them, so who cares?” she said, standing infront of the tic courts, SWFs have little cause to worry, analysts say. economy, which has still not recovered from the 2008 finan- baroque facade of the Santi Apostoli Basilica. But the Kazakh case should be a concern for countries cial crisis. The government argues that the worst is over, with a poor track record on investor protection, as it pointing to 14 straight quarters of economic growth, but Promises could encourage disgruntled investors to target SWFs’ many Italians have yet to feel the benefits of the upturn, Grossi used to clean in a hotel, but lost the job when offshore-held assets. Kirill Dmitriev, head of the Russian helping to explain why the ruling center-left Democratic the business closed. Italy has no minimum wage and Direct Investment Fund, predicted repercussions from Party is trailing in the polls. Grossi said she has since been offered €3 an hour on tem- the Kazakh case. “SWFs represent a significant (share Italy’s economy is still six percent smaller than it was at Economy as top porary contracts - a wage that would never give her of) global capital and any attacks on SWFs may trigger the start of 2008, hobbled by a slew of old problems, such enough money to pay rent. In another sign of growing as a huge national debt mountain, a chronically slow justice significant market turbulence,” he said. concern before poverty, the Federcasa housing association estimates system and stifling bureaucracy. By comparison, output Orders in Dutch and Belgian courts required Bank some 49,000 public buildings are occupied by illegal across the 19-nation eurozone as a whole has grown five of New York Mellon to freeze monies it held in cus- March 4 vote squatters, up from 38,000 in 2006, driven in part by the percent over the same 10-year period. This anemic per- tody for the Kazakh National Fund and the Republic influx of some 600,000 migrants in the past four years. of Kazakhstan. The Dutch court order has since been formance has pushed millions of Italians into poverty, stok- ing social discontent and fueling the rise of populist or anti- Some 89 percent of the squats were in southern and lifted. The Belgian ruling is still in place but central Italy, which have been worst hit by the economic Kazakhstan will challenge it at a court hearing that has establishment parties, such as the far-right anti-immigrant League and the maverick 5-Star Movement. crisis. The widespread discontent within Italy over the been adjourned until April 27. Kazakh assets in economy means almost all parties have drawn up long lists Luxembourg and Sweden are still frozen. The 5-Star looks set to emerge as the largest party next month and says it will introduce a universal wage for the the number of Italians officially registered as living abroad of costly pledges that could upend Italy’s finances if they are poor if it wins power. Other parties are also promising to rose 60 percent, from three to almost five million. enacted. Former prime minister Silvio Berlusconi’s center- Alarm bells unleash billions of euros of fresh spending to revive the The Fondazione Migrantes, which monitors migrant right party is promising to double the minimum pension to SWF assets have been frozen before, but only in economy - money analysts say the country does not have. flows, believes the number is much higher, with many some €1,000 a month and allow earlier retirement. The rul- exceptional circumstances. For instance, the United The number of Italians at risk of poverty has risen by more Italians failing to check in with their local embassy in their ing PD says it will boost the minimum pension to €750 and Nations imposed a freeze on the Libyan Investment than 3 million since 2008, according to the Eurostat statistics new foreign homes. Danilo’s sister Carmen has already left, give families €400 a month per child for three years. Authority’s overseas assets in 2011 as it feared person- agency, the largest increase seen in any EU nation. By con- fed up with low-paying part-time jobs, and moved to Most parties are also offering various welfare schemes, nel in the deposed government would spirit them away. trast, 3.3 million Poles pulled clear of the poverty threshold. Glasgow in Scotland, where she works for the McDonald’s including the 5-Star’s flagship proposal of a monthly uni- The Kazakh asset freezes followed a 2013 decision by The number of Italians living in absolute poverty, defined fast food chain. “I told her she would be back within three versal wage of up to €780 for the poor. Bocconi the Stockholm Chamber of Commerce to award Stati as not having enough money to buy a basket of basic goods or four days. That was three years ago and she is adamant University’s Perotti said such schemes risked entrenching and his co-investors some $500 million in an arbitra- and services, rose to 4.7 million in 2016, according to the lat- that she will never return,” said Biondi. “That is hard for a poverty, by dissuading people from seeking work. “The tion. The body provides dispute resolution services to est data from statistics office Istat, a three-fold increase in a father to hear, but there is nothing here for young people. most simplistic way to deal with poverty is to give money to international businesses but it is not a court and is up decade. “The rise in absolute poverty is a very Italian prob- No future.” everyone and hope the problem goes away. to national courts to enforce its decisions. lem and the numbers are still growing despite the fact the In reality, not only is this measure hugely expensive, Kazakhstan is refusing to pay and President economy has picked up,” said Roberto Perotti, an economist Babies but it creates other problems, for example it creates a Nursultan Nazarbayev’s government said it has done with Bocconi University and a former government adviser. “It The lack of faith in the future is reflected in Italy’s plum- poverty trap,” he said. Biondi sees the prospect of a uni- nothing wrong. It has argued that this ruling was based is the most serious problem facing Italy today.” meting birthrate. According to latest statistics, Italian cou- versal wage as a potential godsend and he plans to vote on fraudulent information, according to a press release ples had 373,075 babies in 2016, down 22 percent on 2008. 5-Star on March 4. “At the moment the government offers from the Kazakh Justice Ministry. Stati’s petition to a Flight Italy offers little welfare help to young people. Only 4 per- no help to people like me,” he said. “I mean, it can’t get Belgian court to enforce the award resulted in an order Biondi’s problems started in 2006 when he had to close cent of all social spending goes to the under-40s, while 77.2 any worse can it?” —Reuters requiring BNY Mellon to freeze $22.6 billion in Kazakh National Fund and Republic of Kazakhstan assets. The assets are held in custody by BNY Mellon’s European room, its bare walls unadorned by a televi- according to Codevida, which staged a plant, resorted to taking immunosuppres- bank, Brussels-based The Bank of New York Mellon With meds running sion or pictures. Her roommate Lismar protest to decry the critical drug shortages. sants designed for animals last year. SA/NV. BNY Mellon declined to comment. Castellanos, who just turned 21, put it more Once-controlled diseases like diphtheria Guillermo Habanero and his brother Stati also obtained a separate order from a Dutch out, Venezuelans bluntly. “Unfortunately, I could die,” said and measles have returned, due partly to Emerson both underwent kidney trans- court to freeze an approximately $5.2 billion stake in Castellanos, who lost her transplanted kidney insufficient vaccines and antibiotics, while plants after suffering polycystic kidney dis- KMG Kashagan BV owned by Samruk-Kazyna, anoth- with transplants last year and is struggling to get the dialysis Venezuelans suffering chronic illnesses like ease. Emerson, a healthy 53-year-old for- er Kazakh SWF. KMG Kashagan is a special purpose she needs to keep her body functioning. cancer or diabetes often have to forgo mer police officer, died in November after a vehicle through which the country holds a stake in the living in fear The women are among Venezuela’s treatment. month without immunosuppressants. “If Kashagan energy project. There were further orders to roughly 3,500 transplant recipients. After Hundreds of thousands of desperate you lose your kidney, you go to dialysis but freeze assets in Luxembourg and Sweden. years leading normal lives, they now live in Venezuelans, meanwhile, have fled the there are no materials. So you go straight to Stati has also tried to get the award enforced in asmira Castano felt she had a fresh fear as Venezuela’s economic collapse country over the past year, including many the cemetery,” said Habanero, 56, who runs courts in London and Washington, according to press chance at life when she received a under President Nicolas Maduro has left medical professionals. Amid a lack of basics a small computer repair shop in the poor releases from the Kazakh Justice Ministry. Those deci- kidney transplant almost two the once-prosperous OPEC nation unable like catheters and crumbling hospital infra- hillside neighborhood of Catia. sions would apply to Kazakh assets held in England or Y decades ago. The young Venezuelan was to purchase sufficient foreign medicine or structure, doctors who remain struggle to A Reuters reporter went to the Health the United States. Both attempts have run into difficul- able to finish high school and went on to produce enough of its own. Some 31 cope with ever scarcer resources. “It’s Ministry to request an interview, but was ties. In a preliminary hearing in June 2017, the English work as a manicurist. But late last year, Venezuelans have seen their bodies start to incredibly stressful. We request supplies; asked at the entrance to give her contact High Court found that the initial arbitration award may Castano, now 40, was unable to find the reject their transplanted organs in the last they don’t arrive. We call again and they details instead. No one called or emailed. have been obtained by fraud. Proceedings are ongo- drugs needed to keep her body from month due to lack of medicine, according to still don’t arrive. Then we realize it’s Reuters was also unable to contact the ing, with a full trial scheduled to begin in October, the rejecting the organ, as Venezuela’s health- umbrella health group Codevida, a non- because there aren’t any,” said a kidney Health Ministry unit in charge of trans- Kazakh Justice Ministry said. Kazakhstan has also filed care system slid deeper into crisis following governmental organization. specialist at a public hospital, asking to plants, Fundavene, for comment. Its website a separate claim against Stati in Washington with years of economic turmoil. At least seven have died due to compli- remain anonymous because health workers was unavailable. Multiple calls to different regard to the alleged fraud. On Christmas Eve, weak and frail, Castano cations stemming from organ failure in the are not allowed to speak publicly about the phone numbers went unanswered. An email was rushed to a crumbling state hospital in last three months. A further 16,000 situation. Venezuela’s Social Security bounced back and no one answered a mes- Immunity in question Venezuela’s teeming capital, Caracas. Her Venezuelans, many hoping for an elusive Institute, tasked with providing patients sage on the unit’s Facebook page. Industry participants are watching the court cases immune system had attacked the foreign transplant, are dependent on dialysis to with drugs for chronic conditions, did not Maduro’s government has said the real closely. “If 40 percent of a sovereign fund is frozen organ and she lost her kidney shortly after- clean their blood - but here too, resources respond to a request for comment. culprit is an alleged US-led business elite and you don’t have access to it, that should be an wards. Now, Castano needs dialysis three and materials are sorely lacking. Nearly half seeking to sabotage its socialist agenda by alarm bell for policymakers,” said Simon Quijano- times a week to filter her blood. But the hos- of the country’s dialysis units are out of ‘Straight to the cemetery’ hoarding medicine and imposing sanctions. “I Evans, a strategist at Legal & General Investment pital attached to Venezuela’s Central service, according to opposition lawmaker Terrified transplant patients are indebt- see the cynicism of the right-wing, worried Management. “It’s been assumed so far that these University, once one of South America’s top and oncologist Jose Manuel Olivares, a ing themselves to buy pricey medicine on about people who cannot get dialysis treat- assets were relatively immune.” SWFs have labored institutions, frequently suffers water outages leading voice on the health crisis who has the black market, begging relatives abroad ment, but it’s their fault: they’ve asked for for years to position themselves as little different from and lacks materials for dialysis. toured dialysis centers to assess the scale to funnel drugs into the country or danger- sanctions and a blockade against Venezuela,” any other institutional investor, mostly to allay con- “I spend nights not sleeping, just worry- of the problem. ously reducing their daily intake of pills to Socialist Party heavyweight Diosdado cerns countries might have about selling assets to for- ing,” said Castano, who weighs around 35 kg, In the last three weeks alone, seven peo- stretch out stock. Larry Zambrano, a 45- Cabello said in recent comments on his eign governments. —Reuters as she lay on an old bed in a bleak hospital ple have died due to lack of dialysis, year old father of two with a kidney trans- weekly television program. —Reuters Established 1961 11 News Wednesday, February 21, 2018 Camel-based baby formula to hit shelves in Dubai

SHARJAH: Camels walk across the Al-Dhaid city desert northeast of Dubai yesterday.— AFP

DUBAI: A UAE-based company has unveiled what it calls event which runs from February 18 to 22 in Dubai. The meat have gained popularity as a delicatessen in the Gulf represents an integral part of the Arabic and Islamic cul- the world’s first camel-based baby formula, an instant milk, which it says is suitable for children ages one to in recent years, with camel chocolates, camel carpaccio, ture in general and the UAE culture and heritage in partic- powder mix aimed mainly at infants allergic to cow’s milk. three, primarily targets infants allergic to cow’s milk. camel burgers and now camel baby formula making their ular,” said Camelicious general manager Saeed Juma Bin The Emirates Industry for Camel Milk & Products, or Camel milk for centuries was a staple for Bedouin peo- way into restaurants and kitchens. Subaih. “This milk is genuinely complements the UAE val- “Camelicious”, on Monday unveiled the product at ples across the Gulf, who continue to include the vitamin- The company calls its latest product “the world’s first ues and traditions that are handed down from one genera- Gulfood 2018, an international food and beverage trade rich milk in their modern-day diets. Both camel milk and instant baby milk processed from camel milk”. “Camel milk tion to another”. — AFP

fect country. Saudi Arabia is like any other country. But ers and ministers are very good, but there are some Relax and invest, the ... road to success is always under construction and the Minister extends who are hired by certain quarters and work for their whole momentum of Saudi Arabia is going toward that interests. The lawmaker praised a draft law governing end,” Minister of Commerce and Investment Majid bin conflict of interests as a good means to fight corrup- Saudi prince tells Abdullah Al-Qasabi told a Davos session. amnesty for tion in the country. Government spokesmen in Riyadh did not respond to Continued from Page 1 The head of the Assembly’s legal and legislative investors requests for comment, but Attorney General Saud Al- committee MP Al-Humaidi Al-Subaei said a meeting of Mojeb has described the sweep as “an independent judi- government raises charges on public services. The the committee reached a consensus over the conflict of RIYADH/DUBAI: Three months after Saudi Arabia cial process” and “part of an overhaul to ensure trans- opposition lawmaker said that he has become a target interest legislation, but a lack of quorum prevented a detained scores of people in a crackdown on corruption, parency, openness and good governance”. The message of deliberate attacks by certain quarters and MPs vote on the law. He however expected the committee its rulers are trying to reassure investors that the kingdom delivered in the January meetings underscores a difficult because he has been exposing corrupt transactions vote to take place before the Assembly session on remains open for business. Foreign and local investors balancing act for Prince Mohammed and his team as they and elements. Adasani said that a majority of lawmak- March 5 and 6. have long complained about corruption, and confronting it try to reform the country. They must deliver change, and is an important part of reforms unveiled by Crown Prince one way to do that is by tackling corruption in Saudi Mohammed bin Salman to transform the country and Arabia’s opaque business world. But the judicial system is “these are not negotiations between equals”. The reduce the economy’s reliance on oil exports. underdeveloped and the crackdown contrasted sharply Abbas calls for Palestinians see East Jerusalem as the capital of their Yet some business leaders were unsettled by the with Western-style due process. future state and UN resolutions call on countries to swoop on top princes, businessmen and government offi- That means each attempt at reform in the deeply con- refrain from moving their embassies to the city until its cials in November because of the secrecy around the Mideast peace ... servative Muslim kingdom risks exposing other shortcom- status is resolved in an Israeli-Palestinian deal. crackdown and their suspicions that it was at least partly ings. The government has said that financial settlements Continued from Page 1 Abbas’ address came just weeks after US politically motivated. “This is not a recommendation for Ambassador Nikki Haley launched a scathing attack on why you should invest in Saudi Arabia,” said a Western made with the detainees in exchange for their freedom have raised more than $100 billion, mostly in the form of “running away” from dialogue. “You have made it the Palestinian leader and accused him of lacking the businessman with extensive contacts in the kingdom. “This clear, with your words and with your actions, that you courage needed for peace. Haley was accompanied to whole thing has become one big ball of contradictions.” land, stakes in businesses and other illiquid assets rather than cash. That should help raise tens of billions of dollars are no longer part of the solution. You are the prob- Tuesday’s council meeting by Jason Greenblatt, the US Saudi authorities are loathe to say they mishandled envoy for Middle East peace and Jared Kushner, for huge development plans, such as a $500-billion eco- lem,” Danon said. the anti-corruption campaign. But top officials, including Trump’s son-in law and adviser on Israeli-Palestinian nomic zone in the northwestern desert. The Israeli-Palestinian peace process has been Prince Mohammed, met senior local businessmen last peace efforts. In December, the General Assembly vot- But only a handful of specific allegations against those deadlocked since a major push by the former US month to reassure them that the crackdown was mostly ed 128-9, with 35 abstentions, to reject the US decision detained have been revealed. Details of the financial set- administration of Barack Obama ended in failure in over and that it was safe to do business, according to April 2014. The Trump administration is preparing a to recognize Jerusalem. five Saudi and Western sources who spoke with people tlements are also being kept secret, and Reuters has been That vote in the 193-nation assembly came after 14 unable to verify the government’s gross estimate. new peace plan even though chances for agreement who attended the meetings. Most detainees have now appear dim. The Palestinians hope that greater interna- of the 15 council members voted in favor of a similar been released. Authorities say that not naming detainees protected peo- measure. The United States vetoed that draft resolution. ple’s reputations, and settling cases out of court avoided tional involvement in the peace process will serve to In front of global political and business leaders at the counter what they see as a US stance biased in favor of Tensions have also flared over the US decision to cut protracted legal battles that would have distracted from World Economic Forum in the Swiss town of Davos last Israel. Israel, which often accuses the European Union funding to the UN agency for Palestinian refugees other priorities. Yet the secrecy of the crackdown - during month, Saudi officials highlighted the positives of the and the United Nations of bias against it, is reluctant to (UNRWA). The United Nations granted Palestine the which detainees were held inside the same opulent hotel detentions, dismissing worries about the way the crack- accept any other mediator than the United States. status of a non-member observer state in 1992, but an down was conducted but conceding that it might have where days earlier investors had rubbed elbows at an UN envoy Nickolay Mladenov said the international upgrade to full membership would require unanimous been sold slightly differently. “It’s true we could make mis- international business conference - could undermine community must continue advocating for “substantial backing from the Security Council - an unlikely out- takes here and mistakes there. Saudi Arabia is not a per- transparency promises. — Reuters Israeli policy changes” on settlements and stressed that come, given the near-certainty of a US veto. — AFP

Established 1961 13 Sports Wednesday, February 21, 2018 Sports academy in Egypt gives Syrian children hope

Those who train the youths go unpaid ALEXANDRIA: When Amir al-Awad fled Syria for OBSTACLES ABROAD Egypt, he intended to cross the Mediterranean for a The financing came from the United Nations High European country. But instead, the boyhood Syrian Commissioner for Refugees, which provided 25 percent wrestling champion opted against the risky sea journey used to buy equipment, and the rest from the Caritas and found work at a restaurant in Alexandria, where he humanitarian group. “We prepared the training hall step was introduced to the city’s Syrian community. by step, including paint and design,” says Awad. Together they established the Syrian Sports The academy’s growing reputation in the neighbour- Academy, and he replaced his dream of an Olympic hood drove Egyptian parents to also enrol their children medal with a goal to “create champions from the young there. “We’re keen to teach the children sports ethics: to refugees” from his country, says Awad. This was “so that learn how to win and how to lose, which helps them in one day they will be able to raise their flag as we have in their life, instead of giving in to a bad lifestyle,” he says. the past after they return to Syria,” says the 34-year-old. Karima Amer, an Egyptian mother from Khaled bin al- The academy is squeezed into just 30 square metres Waleed neighbourhood, cited “discipline” as the reason (320 square feet), in a modestly equipped hall at the bot- she takes her son and daughter to the academy. She tom of a residential building praised “Captain Amir” and in the Alexandria neighbour- how he “talks with the chil- hood of Khaled bin al- dren about everything: their Waleed. Inside, Syrian chil- problems, food, and ethics”. dren aged of seven to 10 Adel Bazmawi, 21, a co- dressed in T-shirts and jeans We’re keen to founder and coach, says he form a line after arriving at transitioned from a profes- the end of a school day. “Let’s teach children sional wrestling to coaching go, guys, so you have enough martial arts after coming to ALEXANDRIA: Syrian refugee Amir al-Awad (R) watches as Adel Bazmawi (C) teaches martial arts to youth at the time to study,” Awad yells in sports ethics Egypt from Idlib in 2013. academy in Egypt’s second city of Alexandria on January 4, 2018. — AFP encouragement, as he moves “In Egypt I’m not recog- on to coaching them nised as a wrestler who can Even after receiving invitations to tournaments in Syrian shawarma at a restaurant close to the academy. wrestling. participate in international Canada and Germany in 2015, he was unable to go Those who train the youths go unpaid, something that With a small administrative office, and the lone train- competitions” given he does not carry the Egyptian because “Syrian nationality has become an obstacle to is unavoidable given that 75 percent of the children are ing hall, Syrian youngsters practise martial arts, aerobics, nationality, says Bazmawi, who was Syria’s freestyle obtaining visas to European countries.” exempt from fees. “The academy’s goal is to be develop- ballet, and gymnastics. In addition, the academy organis- wrestling champion for his age in 2006 and 2008. mental, and not to make a profit,” says Awad. es football tournaments, especially for Arab and African Now “the most I can do is to fight in local clubs,” DREAMS OF RETURNING HOME But older youths pay a “token” fee, up to 100 pounds refugees in the city. he says. On the other hand, in addition to Alexandria, There are more than 126,000 UN-registered Syrian a month, which the academy uses to pay electricity bills On its ageing walls hang pictures of international mar- he says he has become known in other cities, includ- refugees in Egypt, but the real figure is thought to be and rent, he says. As busy as they are, Awad says his tial arts and weightlifting champions. The academy’s ing the Nile Delta provincial capitals of Tanta and much higher. Bazmawi, who did not complete his studies team “aren’t able to compete in various tournaments founders began the project in 2016 with just 3,000 Kafr el-Sheikh. Still, he says “I miss international in sports education because of the devastating seven- because of their Syrian nationality,” while to participate Egyptian pounds (about $430 at the time). competitions”. year war in his homeland, helps his family to prepare they need to officially register the academy. — AFP

Sheikh Ahmad Al-Jaber calls tennis players against Clermont Auvergne last month, Lions trio while Williams suffered an abdominal to participate in injury during the autumn campaign boost Wales and has not played for Wales since Kuwait Tennis Open IX they beat Georgia in November. The pack is unchanged and for Ireland includes No.8 Ross Moriarty, who KUWAIT: Sheikh Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, President of Kuwait missed Gloucester’s Premiership Tennis Federation (KTF), announced the start of applying to play game against Worcester last week- Kuwait Tennis Open IX. The competitions start on Sunday, March 4 to 6 Nations clash end after suffering a shoulder knock. Sunday, March 18, 2018 at the Tennis Center of Kuwait Tennis “It is great to be able to bring so Federation inside Yarmouk Sports Club in Meshref. CARDIFF: Wales head coach much experience back into the start- There will be 11 events to compete: (Boys Under 11 - Boys Under Warren Gatland yesterday named ing XV and into the back-line,” said 13 Singles - Boys Under 17 Singles - Veterans Over 45 Singles - Gatland, who takes charge of Wales Sheikh Ahmad Jaber Al-Abdallah Al-Sabah. British and Irish Lions trio Dan Veterans Over 55 Singles - Veterans Over 45 Doubles - Men’s Biggar, Liam Williams and Leigh for the 100th time. Singles - Men’s Doubles - Girls Under 18 Singles - Ladies Singles - Halfpenny in his starting line-up for “It is the first week we have had Diplomats Singles). Matches start at 4:30 pm and 9:00 am on Sports Club, Meshref. the weekend’s Six Nations clash everyone in the ‘green’ in terms of Fridays and Saturdays. Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah called upon all tennis players in Kuwait against Ireland. availability, which is a nice luxury to The tournament will be open to all Kuwaitis and expatriates of of different categories and nationalities in addition to diplomats and Victory for Wales in Dublin would have and a positive ahead of what is all categories from all countries as well. Deadline for receiving veterans to participate in the tournament. end Ireland’s Grand Slam hopes and a very important Test match against a applications with a copy of Civil ID Card is at 6:00 pm on Kuwait Tennis Open IX is the biggest tennis event in the State of keep alive their own title chances, very good Ireland side. Wednesday 28 February 2018 at KTF headquarters inside Yarmouk Kuwait. More than 450 players are expected to participate. while an Irish win would increase the “We have been pleased with the likelihood of a championship show- depth we have developed in the back down against England at Twickenham three and pleased with how those Leclerc taking his place. tinue improving our performance during the on March 17. players have gone but having the Sauber launch The Monegasque is seen as a future Ferrari course of the season. “The return of Alfa Fly-half Biggar, who missed the experience of Dan, Liam and Leigh prospect and his arrival, along with the Romeo to Formula One sets another milestone opening Six Nations games against coming back in is hugely important.” catch-up car steadying hand of team principal Frederic in the team’s history, and I am proud that such Scotland and England with a shoul- Ireland currently top the Six Nations Vasseur who was appointed in July, has a historical brand has chosen us for their der injury, replaces Rhys Patchell in table on points difference from revived confidence. The new C37 car, with return to the sport.” Alfa Romeo, a brand in the number 10 shirt. Elsewhere, full- England after winning their opening after dismal 2017 prominent Alfa branding on a red and white the Fiat Chrysler (FCA) stable which is also back Halfpenny has recovered from a two games against France and Italy. livery replacing the previous blue and white, run by Ferrari president Sergio Marchionne, foot infection that ruled him out of Wales, who thumped Scotland 34- was presented on the team’s website have a long history in the sport dating back to Wales’s 12-6 defeat to England and 7 in their opening match, are third. LONDON: Sauber presented the first Formula (www.sauberf1team.com) and across social the pre-war years and the birth of the world replaces Gareth Anscombe, while fit- Wales (15-1) Leigh Halfpenny; One car of their new Alfa Romeo partnership media. championship in 1950. again Saracens wing Williams takes Liam Williams, Scott Williams, yesterday, with a flurry of preceding sponsor “The aerodynamic concept has changed The first two world championships in 1950 over from Josh Adams. Hadleigh Parkes, Steff Evans; Dan announcements pointing also to a sounder significantly, and the C37 has several new fea- and 1951 were won by Italian Giuseppe ‘Nino’ Both Patchell and Adams drop out Biggar, Gareth Davies; Ross future after a dismal 2017 season. tures in comparison to its predecessor,” said Farina and Argentine Juan Manuel Fangio in of the matchday 23, while Moriarty, Josh Navidi, Aaron The Swiss-based team finished that cam- technical director Joerg Zander. “We are posi- Alfa cars, but the Italian marque has been Northampton wing George North is Shingler; Alun Wyn Jones (capt), paign last overall, with Swedish driver Marcus tive that the new concept offers us more absent for more than 30 years. retained on the bench with Gatland Cory Hill; Samson Lee, Ken Owens, Ericsson failing to score any points, after opportunities and will help us to make Vasseur, who was previously at Renault, opting for a back-three of Halfpenny, Rob Evans using a 2016 Ferrari engine rather than the lat- improvements during the course of the sea- said Ericsson would provide experience and Williams and Steff Evans. Replacements: Elliot Dee, Wyn est specification. Ericsson’s previous son. The 2018 Ferrari engine will also give us a accurate technical feedback while Biggar features for the first time Jones, Tomas Francis, Bradley Davies, Mercedes-backed team mate Pascal Wehrlein boost in terms of our performance.” Monegasque newcomer Leclerc had shown since he was hurt during the Ospreys’ Justin Tipuric, Aled Davies, Gareth has since departed, back to the German Vasseur said the target for the season his talent during a dominant F2 campaign. European Champions Cup defeat Anscombe, George North. — AFP Touring Car (DTM) series, with Ferrari pro- starting in Australia on March 25 was clear: Testing started at Barcelona’s Circuit de tege and Formula Two champion Charles “We have to catch up with the field and con- Catalunya on Monday. — Reuters

release from Cricket South Africa yesterday. Du Plessis back in Two more key players are on course to feature in the first test in Durban with AB de Villiers having fully recovered from a knee injury and wicketkeeper training ahead Quinton de Kock over his wrist problem. Middle-order batsman Temba Bavuma will play of Australia in a club game on Sunday following his recovery from a hand fracture and if he shows no ill-effects, will be available for selection for the first Test. Test series Seamer Dale Steyn, who is two wickets shy of becoming South Africa’s most successful bowler in tests, remains a serious doubt for the first game of CAPE TOWN: South Africa captain Faf du Plessis the series as he recovers from ligament damage in will begin training today as he seeks to prove his fit- his foot. ness ahead of the four-match home test series “He is doing his running training and also against Australia starting on March 1. Du Plessis increasing his bowling intensity,” Moosajee said. missed the majority of the one-day international “He will in all likelihood feature in the series against and Twenty20 series against India after picking up a Australia, but the CSA medical team will want him fracture to his right index finger. to play some form of cricket before a test match.” “He will start batting tomorrow and we are hope- South Africa, who beat India 2-1 in a recent test ful he will come through that and be available to series, have not defeated the Australians at home captain the team for the first test against Australia,” since 1969-70. They have won their last three test team manager Mohammed Moosajee said in a news series in Australia. — Reuters Faf du Plessis 14 Established 1961 Sports Wednesday, February 21, 2018 US, Norway, Finns, Germans advance to Olympic hockey quarter-finals

US to face unbeaten Czech Republic in today’s quarter-finals

GANGNEUNG: South Korea threatened an upset of third period, then Juuso Hietanen struck for a power- mighty Finland before falling short while Norway play goal with 12:40 remaining. “They were working snapped an 11-game Olympic losing streak to advance really hard. It wasn’t an easy game,” Hietanen said. to the Pyeongchang men’s hockey quarter-finals yester- “They should be proud.” An empty-net goal late by day along with Germany and the United States. Sakari Manninen doomed the South Korean upset bid. Finland, medallists in five of the past six Olympics, saw “I knew it was possible it could turn,” said Finland’s a three-goal lead trimmed to one before escaping with Sami Lepisto. “I wasn’t nervous about the situation but a 5-2 playoff victory over the Olympic hosts to secure you never know.” Norway, which had not won since a today a quarter-final date with two-time defending 1994 11th-place consolation game, edged Slovenia 2-1 champion Canada. on Alexander Bonsaksen’s over-time goal to book a “They played great. I last-eight matchup against respect that,” said Finland’s the Olympic Athletes from Petri Kontiola, who scored Russia. “This is historic,” twice. “They did a great job.” Bonsaksen said. “I’m really After the game, the South happy.” The US men routed Korean team took large flags They played Slovakia 5-1 and will face onto the ice and skated laps unbeaten Czech Republic in around the rink in an emo- great and I today’s quarter-finals while tional tribute to the scream- Germany edged Switzerland ing fans who were giving respect that 2-1 on Yannic Seidenberg’s their winless team a standing over-time goal to set a quar- ovation. “I felt so proud with ter-final against unbeaten the flags around me,” tearful Sweden. Now the forward Park Woo-sang said. Americans, who haven’t won “We wanted to thank them for all the support.” Down Olympic gold since 1980, face a Czech squad seeking 3-0, the South Koreans roared back as Canada-born its first Olympic crown in 20 years. Radunske, the first player without Korean ancestry to GANGNEUNG: Finland’s players celebrate scoring in the men’s play-offs qualifications ice hockey match play for South Korea after taking citizenship in 2013, STRONG AND RESILIENT between Finland and South Korea during the Pyeongchang 2018 Winter Olympic Games at the Gangneung scored 10:06 into the second period and Ahn Jin-hui Harvard University star Ryan Donato scored two Hockey Stadium. — AFP followed only 2:03 later. goals as he did in an earlier win over Slovakia and US “The crowd deserved to see the puck go in the net. goaltender Ryan Zapolski made 22 saves. Both shined They have been behind us the whole way,” said Korean after being flattened in the second period, with Michal moment, Ladislav Nagy was whistled for flattening James Wisniewski, whose father Jim was quarantined forward Brock Radunske. “That was a little giveback to Cajkovsky sent off for 25 minutes for a blow to Zapolski, who was slow to rise off the ice. with the norovirus at the Games, scored on the power the fans. They have been with us every step of the way. Donato’s head. “I just dipped my head for a second to “Jammed my neck, pinched my nerves and just kind play 18 seconds later for a 2-0 US edge and the rout The support has been unbelievable.” look at the puck and looked up and had an elbow in my of lost feeling in my hands and feet for a bit,” Zapolski was on. “It shows how strong and how resilient a team The Finns thwarted a Korean power play to start the mouth,” Donato said. “It didn’t feel good.” At the same said. “It was a little bit of a scary thing for me.” we are,” Zapolski said. — AFP

Warrior Fourcade Wigan to probe writes history crowd trouble with team gold after Man City PYEONGCHANG: Martin Fourcade drew on all his FA Cup shock warrior instincts to continue his rewriting of French sporting history at the Pyeongchang Olympics by delivering team gold in the mixed relay yesterday. He delivered a storming performance on the final leg LONDON: Wigan announced a full investiga- to become the second French athlete to win three gold tion yesterday into crowd disturbances that medals at a single Winter Games after Alpine skier marred the club’s dramatic FA Cup victory over Jean-Claude Killy. The 29-year-old Fourcade was also Premier League leaders Manchester City. City the first athlete to claim three titles in Pyeongchang and striker Sergio Aguero became involved in a he took his overall tally to a French record-extending physical exchange with a Wigan supporter as five Olympic gold medals. thousands of fans spilled onto the pitch follow- “It’s a beautiful story for this team, it’s a beautiful ing the League One side’s 1-0 victory in the story for all the crew, who work really hard on our fifth-round tie on Monday. skis,” Fourcade told reporters. “We often say that we TV footage of the chaos at the DW Stadium are doing an individual sport but we are living more appeared to show Aguero raising his arm to than 220 days a year together. Winning this medal push away the fan and later having to be together is something really emotional and we really restrained. It is understood Aguero claims he enjoy it.” was spat at. A number of fans also headed Fourcade’s day job as a soldier may help his aim, PYEONGCHANG: France’s Martin Fourcade celebrates at the finish line in the men’s 15km mass start biathlon towards the end where City supporters were but it is his never-say-die attitude that makes him so event during the Pyeongchang 2018 Winter Olympic Games, in Pyeongchang. — AFP sitting to continue celebrations, sparking fur- special. He shot impeccably and skied brilliantly in the ther disturbances.. relay, making the most of errors by his opponents as that,” he said. After a poor start to the Games in the team mates. “It is not a man that crosses the finish line, Advertising hoardings were ripped out and he swept to victory, waving the tricolour flag as he sprint, Fourcade found his range and won the pursuit but a team, and picks up the gold once again. Inspiring thrown onto the pitch along with other objects, skated across the line and into the arms of his waiting before edging out German Simon Schempp in a thriller demonstration of the strength of the collective,” while missiles were also thrown from the pitch team mates. to take the mass start gold. Macron said on Twitter. into the stand. There were also clashes “I was very stressed because it is not a race like any His performances have prompted congratulatory For all the President’s celebration of the team, how- between fans and police and stewards. other one, individual races. I go fast in the first lap and messages from French President Emmanuel Macron, ever, the French relay victory was firmly rooted in Police made two arrests on suspicion of (I’m) shooting and no question in my head - go, just but on Tuesday he had to share the plaudits with his Fourcade’s refusal to accept second-best. — Reuters affray following an incident outside the ground. “While we appreciate that the vast majority of supporters who ran on to the pitch did so spontaneously to celebrate a famous victory, sled their way to victory, the Team Toyota athletes will where people turn their weaknesses into strengths with embody the company’s global corporate initiative, which optimism and a fighting spirit and a strong and determined we were disappointed with the action of a Team Toyota takes envisions the creation of a more inclusive and sustainable desire to improve and be better.” Additionally, Toyota has minority of supporters who acted in an inap- society in which everyone can challenge their impossible. built relationships with athletes around the world in differ- propriate manner,” said Wigan chief executive ‘Start Your Impossible’ The true challenge for Toyota and its President and ent disciplines. While selecting the Team Toyota, which Jonathan Jackson. CEO Akio Toyoda is to stimulate the 80-year-old company includes Toyota employees who have been training and “Player and staff safety is of paramount by reinforcing its core values and inspiring its 370,000 practicing at the highest level while working at the compa- importance and we will conduct a full investi- to global stage at worldwide employees to help create a society where ny in Japan, the company, its affiliates, and distributors gation.” Chief Superintendent Stuart Ellison of mobility is an opportunity for people to achieve their around the world looked for individuals that best reflect Greater Manchester Police said such behaviour PyeongChang 2018 dreams. Sports are an excellent medium to accomplish Toyota’s core values. These values include: be caring, be a would not be tolerated. this, with events like the Olympic Games uniting the world natural challenger, represent the kaizen spirit(a Japanese “As soon as people were on the pitch, we in friendship and solidarity to celebrate the highest real- tereminology for continuous improvement), have a love of immediately deployed our resources to the PYEONGCHANG: Over 50 athletes from 20 countries ization of human potential. learning and be curious, be honest with strong work ethic, front of the stands, where they were able to supported by Toyota compete at the Olympic Winter “I have a profound respect for sports, which have a be a team player, be accountable, be humble and thankful, keep the two groups of supporters apart and Games and Paralympic Winter Games. Taking its ambi- unique power to offer hope and purpose and inspire us all and respect others. prevent any further disruption,” he said. Police tious “Start Your Impossible” movement to a new level, to never give up,” said Akio Toyoda, President and CEO of Some of the athletes shared their personal stories at the added in a statement that no injuries had been Toyota Motor Corporation, a worldwide partner of the Toyota Motor Corporation. Toyota Mobility Summit held in Athens, Greece in October reported. Olympic Games and the Paralympic Games, has supported “It is exciting to watch athletes from all over the world last year, while others are featured in a video series that is The Football Association is assessing the sit- more than 50 athletes from 20 countries who are compet- compete on a level playing field, where anything can hap- part of the “Start Your Impossible” initiative. The company uation but is yet to say whether either club will ing at PyeongChang 2018 Olympic Winter Games and pen. This concept, when carried over to society, means a has plans to launch new videos and television commercials be investigated. The report of referee Anthony Paralympic Winter Games. As they strive to skate, ski and place where everyone can participate and contribute, during the events of PyeongChang 2018. Taylor and video footage will be taken into account. The governing body could also look into a confrontation between City manager Pep Guardiola and his Wigan counterpart Paul Cook. The pair exchanged heated words after City’s Fabian Delph was sent off late in the first half. Their argument continued in the tunnel after the sides left the field at half-time and tel- evision pictures showed Guardiola having to be held back by colleagues. Guardiola later played down that incident, suggesting he had been annoyed that Cook had left his technical area. “Nothing happened in the tunnel, nothing happened with my colleague,” the Spaniard said. “It was just ‘please stay in your position’, that’s all, and then finished.” Wigan’s victory, courtesy of a 79th-minute strike from Will Grigg, ended City’s historic quest for a quadruple. — AFP Established 1961 15 Sports Wednesday, February 21, 2018 Olympic relay joy for South Korea, Christie crashes again Deafening cheers from a packed Gangneung Ice Arena

GANGNEUNG: South Korean short-track speed skat- ing star Choi Min-jeong led the 2018 Winter Games hosts to women’s 3,000 metres relay gold yesterday on Matches on TV a night when Briton Elise Christie’s Olympic curse (Local Timings) struck again. To deafening cheers from a packed Gangneung Ice Arena, the teenager speedster Choi UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE raced the final two laps, holding off China in a frantic dash to the line as the Koreans successfully defended Sevilla v Manchester United 22:45 their Sochi title. The Chinese were subsequently dis- beIN SPORTS HD 1 qualified along with Canada, promoting Italy to silver. Shakhtar Donetsk v Roma 22:45 Bronze went to the winners of the ‘B’ final, the beIN SPORTS HD 2 Netherlands, who earned their place on the podium after setting a new world record of 4min 03.471sec. UEFA EUROPA LEAGUE Italian Arianna Fontana, winner of the individual 500m, CSKA Moscow v Crvena Zvezda 20:00 was claiming a record seventh short-track medal. “It feels great, I didn’t really realise that until some- beIN SPORTS HD 4 body told me after the race,” said the 27-year-old. For Choi it was a second gold of the Games, after her ASIAN CHAMPIONS LEAGUE 1500m success at the weekend, to make up for her dis- Cerezo Osaka v Guangzhou Evergrande 13:00 qualification in last week’s 500m. beIN SPORTS HD 3 The 19-year-old remains on track for a golden treble Suwon Samsung Bluewings v Kashima Antlers 13:00 because she won her heat for the 1,000m to qualify for beIN SPORTS HD 1 tomorrow’s quarter-finals. Choi said: “It’s my first Olympics, we tried our best to continue Korea’s great Buriram United v Jeju United 14:00 record in the relay and of course it being in Korea we GANGNEUNG: (L-R) South Korea’s Choi Minjeong and Australia’s Deanna Lockett compete in the women’s beIN SPORTS HD 2 put lots of effort to do well at home.” 1,000m short track speed skating heat event during the Pyeongchang 2018 Winter Olympic Games, at the Shanghai Greenland Shenhua v Sydney 15:00 It was South Korea’s sixth Olympic relay title out of Gangneung Ice Arena in Gangneung yesterday. —AFP beIN SPORTS HD 1 a possible eight, the only two to get away coming in Albertville in 1992, won by Canada, and China’s triumph in Vancouver in 2010. ported her - they would stand for long hours at the foot of snowboarding. “My first thought was ‘Oh, have Steely Ledecka of the slopes,” Lukas told Reuters in a telephone inter- they’ve done the snowboard race already?’,” Lukas ‘WASN’T TO BE’ view. “She was competitive, she was really keen on it said from the mountain resort of Spindleruv Mlyn, Earlier, the 12,000 crowd showed its sympathetic and that is the most important thing... You can be tal- located about 150 kilometres from Prague. side in support of Christie, who lived up to her reputa- destined for ented, but if you are lazy, than it is good for nothing. “We did it in a playful way with the kids, but we tion as Britain’s unluckiest Olympian. The 27-year-old That must go hand in hand, the talents and hard work,” were also three times a week on that slope and Ester three-time world champion took second place in her glory: Coach he said. would then go for more with her parents. And she did 1,000m heat after a wipe-out, only to be hit with yet The 22-year-old Ledecka, who will also compete in both skis and snowboard,” Lukas said. another disqualification. the snowboard parallel giant slalom starting on The coach stressed how Ledecka’s family was Christie displayed real grit just to make the race Thursday, produced one of the biggest upsets of the always there to support her and her dad Janek, a after completing a remarkable return from injury fol- PRAGUE: Even as a five-year-old at her first training Pyeongchang Winter Olympics when she won the famous rock musician, learned to ski when his daughter lowing a weekend smash in the 1,500m semi-finals. But session Czech Ester Ledecka showed the competitive super-G on Saturday. started training. Her grandfather Jan Klapac - a member she only made it a few metres in her qualifier when she drive that would carry her to a shock Olympic Alpine The victory sent Czech media into a frenzy with of the 1972 world champion Czechoslovak ice hockey went flying out after clipping the blades of Hungarian skiing gold medal in Pyeongchang, according to her Ledecka’s image plastered over the front pages of team and Olympic silver medalist - also provided inspi- rival Andrea Keszler. first coach. Jan Lukas, who trained Ledecka from the newspapers and television repeating her run to a first ration for Ledecka. Sliding into the side padding she looked to be in ages of 5-11 at Ski Klub Spindl, said he could see early gold among only three Olympic Alpine skiing medals “We did not expect such success. We are now sitting pain, but to encouraging cheers from the crowd, on that she had the family support and steely determi- for a country with a population of 10.6 million. with my wife debating what a journey Ester has had to Christie picked herself up, had her blades checked and nation required to make it to the top. Lukas missed his former pupil’s medal-winning run go through. And what effort it took,” he told CTK news lined up for the restart of the race.— AFP “Her parents supported her, her grandparents sup- and assumed she had won gold in her preferred sport agency. — Reuters Established 1961 Sport

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2018

Sports academy in Egypt Warrior Fourcade writes Olympic relay joy for South 13gives Syrian children hope 14 history with team gold 15 Korea, Christie crashes again

Messi gives Barcelona last-16 edge Barca dominate possession for a large spell of first half

LONDON: Chelsea’s Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois (2L) watches a shot go wide during the first leg of the UEFA Champions League round of 16 football match between Chelsea and Barcelona at Stamford Bridge stadium in London yesterday. — AFP

LONDON: Lionel Messi struck for the first time in nine instead operating in the middle of a front three featuring break and were lucky to go in level at half-time. from the edge of the box. A short corner was worked games against Chelsea to give Barcelona the upper Willian and former Barca winger Pedro Rodriguez. Willian showed his ability to score from outside the into the Brazilian’s path and he arrowed a low shot past hand from the first leg of their Champions League last- And it was Hazard who sent the first warning that box off either foot with a double against Hull City to the rooted Ter Stegen. However, Barca remain unbeaten 16 tie yesterday by salvaging a 1-1 draw at Stamford Barca were in for an uncomfortable evening when he take Chelsea into the FA Cup quarter-finals on Friday. in 31 La Liga and Champions League games under Bridge. Willian’s fine strike just after the hour mark had fired just over from 20 yards five minutes in. Antonio He was inches away from another long-range stunner Ernesto Valverde thanks to a late rally. Luis Suarez had put Chelsea in command after earlier hitting both posts Rudiger also headed just wide in a positive opening when he curled onto the post from 25 yards with Marc- claims for a penalty waved away when he went down in the first half. However, one moment of carelessness from the hosts, but it was Barca who had the first clear Andre ter Stegen beaten in the Barca goal. under pressure from Rudiger. cost Chelsea dear as Andres Iniesta intercepted chance on 16 minutes. Chelsea constantly tried to sur- Barca had kept six clean sheets in their previous sev- But Barca’s protests had barely been silenced before Andreas Christensen’s pass to tee up Messi to swing the round Messi with three or four blue shirts to limit the en Champions League games, but once again had good they were level. Christensen’s dangerous ball across his balance of the tie in Barca’s favour 15 minutes from time. Argentine’s threat, but he dug out a cross to the far post luck rather than good defending to thank four minutes own box was a gift for an old scourge of Chelsea in The English champions must now score when they where an unmarked Paulinho headed wide. Barca then before the break when Willian hooked another effort Iniesta. At the end where he broke Chelsea hearts with a travel to the Camp Nou on March 14 to have any chance went on to dominate possession for a large spell of the from outside the box off the woodwork. Hazard then stoppage-time equaliser in a highly controversial semi- of making the last eight. Chelsea manager Antonio Conte first half with their control of the ball reaching 80 per- volleyed just over as Chelsea ended the half on a high. final in 2009, Iniesta this time squared for Messi to sprang a surprise before kick-off by leaving out both cent at one stage. Barca appeared to have restored order early second apply the finishing touch low past Thibaut Courtois for Olivier Giroud and Alvaro Morata with Eden Hazard However, the visitors lacked penetration before the period, but failed to learn their lesson of Willian’s danger his 28th goal of the season. — AFP

Lewandowski, who burst past Vida and was tripped as Bayern romp home he ran at goal with only goalkeeper Fabri to beat. Besiktas could still have snatched a priceless goal min- utes later when Vagner Love got past two Bayern 5-0 after Besiktas defenders to give himself a clear shot on goal but his effort was high and wide. suffer early red card Bayern then laid siege to Besiktas and Fabri denied them the opening goal with a superb one-handed save MUNICH: Bayern Munich, helped by two typical at point-blank range to turn away Mats Hummels’s Thomas Mueller goals and two from Robert header. Having survived another scare when Ricardo Lewandowski, romped to a 5-0 win over Besiktas in Quaresma burst down the right and forced Sven their Champions League tie yesterday after the Turkish Ulreich to save at his near post, Bayern broke the dead- champions played nearly the whole match with 10 men. lock two minutes before halftime. Besiktas defender Domagoj Vida was given a Coman got to the byline and crossed, Alaba touched straight red card for tripping Lewandowski outside the it on and the ball fell to Mueller who turned, failed to penalty area in the 16th minute, the defining moment in make proper contact but poked it home. It was a typi- the round of 16, first leg tie. Mueller, inelegant yet cally scrappy effort from a player once described on always effective, broke the deadlock with a miskick two the German Football Federation’s Twitter feed as having minutes before halftime to break Besiktas’s resistance. the elegance of a swan on ice skates. Kingsley Coman and Mueller added two more There was an air of inevitability about the second before Lewandowski helped himself to a late brace, vir- half as Bayern took complete control. Coman sidefoot- tually assuring the Bavarians of a seventh successive ed in from Lewandowski’s pass in the 53rd minute quarter-final appearance. Besiktas won all threeaway before Mueller struck again in the 66th, this time stick- games in the group stage and came with the clear ing his leg out to divert Joshua Kimmich’s cross past intention of attacking Bayern but their plans were tor- Fabri. Lewandowski got in on the act by snapping up a LONDON: Besiktas’ Brazilian midfielder Talisca (C) fights for the ball with Bayern Munich’s Chilean midfielder Arturo pedoed by Vida’s red card. rebound in the 79th minute, before Mueller set up the Vidal and Bayern Munich’s Spanish midfielder Javier Martinez (L) during the UEFA Champions League round of sixteen A poor pass from Atiba Hutchinson went straight to Pole’s second and Bayern’s fifth. — Reuters first leg football match Bayern Munich vs Besiktas Istanbul in Munich. — AFP Established 1961

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2018 Business

HSBC more than doubles KIPCO continues collaboration with Kuwait Finance House goes 18pre-tax profits to $17.2bn 19 Tmkeen to support entrepreneurs 21 live with ITS ETHIX-Net

KUWAIT: Faten Abu-Ghazalah, president, Rafaela Bianchi, head of customer experience of Du, Adel Al-Majed, Vice Chairman & CEO of Boubyan Bank, Mona Dabbah, group customer service director at Al-Shaya. —Photos by Yasser Al-Zayyat Service Hero presents CSI Awards for 2017

Boubyan Bank, Qatar Airways, Mais Al-Ghanim overall country winners

By Faten Omar Abu-Ghazaleh said Service Hero is keen to develop its offerings and continuously present customers with a KUWAIT: Service Hero, the region’s only consumer better and more satisfying service. Active members powered customer satisfaction index, awarded yester- who are reviewing the services of the companies will be day the winners of its Customer Satisfaction Index rewarded by getting badges of expert, ambassador and (CSI) for the year 2017 at Symphony Hotel in Salmiya. influencer in the more than 80,000-member communi- “Our aim today is to award the companies that work ty. The rating platform empowers consumers to rate the hard for the satisfaction of their customers. Building a service quality of places they visit. Your ratings tell culture of service excellence companies their strengths requires consistent effort and weaknesses and how and taking action to create they compare with competi- value for customers. We’ve tors, she said. all had our good and bad Awards for hard She noted that Service service experiences. And Hero is a partner of the now there is a way to work to provide American Customer express these feelings in a Satisfaction Index, member sales, private hospitals, regional Arab airlines and hospitals category: Royal Hayat hospital. Regional Arab secure and reliable way,” customer of ESOMAR and backed by supermarkets. Each industry category was measured by airlines category: Qatar Airways. Supermarkets catego- Service Hero President satisfaction an independent advisory Kuwait’s consumers on a 10-point scale across eight ry: Saveco . Faten Abu-Ghazaleh said. council, ensuring results that service dimensions, which are reliability, speed, product Service Hero aims to collect a robust and rigorous Abu-Ghazaleh told are impartial, objective and quality, staff quality, value for money, location, call cen- sample exceeding 10,000 validated assessments that Kuwait Times it’s not about that accurately reflect the ter and website quality. reflect key demographic groups. Assessments are pre- the award, but about companies making a strategic voice of the consumer. The winners of the cafe category: Caribou Cafe dominantly collected online asking 20 questions using a decision to be customer-centric. “Companies in Kuwait The overall country winners are: 1st place - Boubyan casual dining. Car service and new car sales category: 10 point scale, and it deploys key processes before will make progress in serving customers better when Bank, 2nd place - Qatar Airways and 3rd place - Mais Infiniti. Clothes category: American Eagle. Electronics reporting validated and authenticated data to ensure its they understand the concept of customer expectations Al-Ghanim. category: Eureka. Fast food category: McDonalds. integrity. Service Hero’s assessment method is statisti- and needs. These strategic efforts require discipline and The 16 industry categories that were rated in 2017 Home furniture category: Home Center. Casual Dining cally rigorous, robust and relevant. From representative perseverance, but once a company starts on the jour- included cafes, casual dining, car service, clothes, elec- category: Mais Al-Ghanim. Islamic banks category: sample sizes to service quality checks and ratings ney of building loyal and satisfied customers, it will tronics, fast food, fine dining, home furniture, Islamic Boubyan Bank. Retail banks category: National Bank of scales, Service Hero’s Index provides a rigorous annual result in long term-financial gains,” she said. banks, retail banks, ISPs, mobile operators, new car Kuwait. ISP and mobile operator category: Zain. Private snapshot of consumer feelings.

resulted in a cost income ratio of 28.8 percent December 2017 AUB reports a (2016: 27.6 percent). The Group’s total assets (2016: US cents 7.2). grew by $1.9 billion (+6.1 percent) to reach The Board of percent between then and mid-2017. net profit of $33.2 billion by 2017 year-end. This is attrib- Directors has recom- Dubai property The downward trajectory continued utable to a 4.8 percent growth in the loans mended distribution through to the end of last year, the $618.7m for 2017 and advances portfolio to $19.5 billion (31 comprising a cash slump to S&P report said, with prices of resi- December 2016: $18.6 billion) and a 7.8 per- dividend of US cents dential units falling a further five to cent growth in the investments portfolio to 4.5 per share (2016: ten percent. $6.0 billion (31 December 2016: $5.6 billion) US cents 4.5 per continue: S&P It said the introduction of a value KUWAIT: Ahli United Bank B.S.C. (AUB) to ensure a balanced funding profile. share) together with a reported a net profit attributable to its equity Asset quality improved resulting from bonus ordinary share added tax and a prolonged crisis Hamad Al-Humaidhi between Qatar and its Gulf neighbors, shareholders of $618.7 million for the year focused recovery initiatives during 2017. The issue of 5 percent DUBAI: A three-year downturn in including the United Arab Emirates, 2017, representing a growth of 8.4 percent as non-performing loan ratio improved to 1.9 (2016: 10 percent). Dubai’s property market will likely had also put pressure on real estate compared to a net profit of $570.6 million in percent as at 31 December 2017 as compared Hamad Al-Humaidhi, AUB Chairman, com- continue until at least 2020, Standard prices. S&P called the downturn a 2016. The net profit in Q4/2017 was $150.0 to 2.3 percent as at 31 December 2016 while mented: “AUB continued its solid performance & Poor’s said yesterday, citing low oil “correction” but said the sector may million as compared to $128.5 million in maintaining a very solid specific provision in 2017 against the backdrop of continuing prices, the introduction of VAT and a start to bounce back when Dubai Q4/2016. coverage ratio of 85.1 percent (31 December global and regional business volatility. Gulf diplomatic crisis. A glut of hous- hosts a six-month World’s Fair in 2020. Net operating income increased from 2016: 84.9 percent). The total provision cover- Sustaining AUB’s growth in net profit demon- ing units and weak demand were also “We believe this correction will con- $986.6 million to $1,030.4 million in 2017 (+ age ratio was 154.3 percent (2016: 155.6 per- strates its strong underlying fundamentals and key reasons for the decline, the credit tinue at least for this year and next, 4.4 percent), driven largely by a rise in net cent), excluding available significant asset col- the resilience of its diversified business and ratings agency said in a report. before prices stabilize in 2020 at the interest income (NII) of 5.8 percent to $876.5 laterals against these exposures. geographic model. The emirate’s real estate sector has earliest,” it said, adding that rents will million (2016: $828.2 million). The NII increase Overall Return on Average Equity (ROAE) “While operating challenges remain, I am been on the slide since 2014, when likely follow the same trend. was achieved through higher spreads resulting increased to 16.5 percent (2016: 15.6 percent) cautiously optimistic that AUB is well positioned crude oil prices crashed, dealing a Dubai’s Expo 2020 is expected to from focused balance sheet management while the Return on Average Assets (ROAA) and prepared to meet the challenges arising out harsh blow to many Gulf investors. attract up to 300,000 visitors a day together with prudent growth in asset vol- increased to 2.1 percent (2016: 1.8 percent). of evolving market conditions both regionally Home prices dropped more than 15 when it opens in October 2020. —AFP umes within acceptable risk criteria. The dis- The resultant basic earnings per share and globally and to maintain its growth momen- ciplined cost culture within the AUB Group were US cents 7.7 for the year ended 31 tum into 2018,” added Al-Humaidhi. 18 Established 1961

Wednesday, February 21, 2018 Business Infiniti Al-Babtain sweeps the automotive market by ranking first Consumers vote in Service Hero 2017 for 5th consecutive year

KUWAIT: Al-Babtain Group, the authorized and it follows a strict protocol to ensure the dealer of Infiniti vehicles in the State of real identity of the customers who have par- Kuwait is proud to announce acquiring top ticipated in it. positions in the authorized car dealers cate- On this occasion, Saleh Al-Babtain, CEO gories according to the customer-driven sat- Al-Babtain Group, commented that: “The isfaction index, Service Hero 2017. Company is keen to provide best standard of Since 2013 Infiniti Al-Babtain has ranked service for its customers, and always aims to first in the after-sales service in the author- ized car dealers, which validate its superior and class-Leading service. All the stages concluded on December 31 of last year, and the results were announced. Infiniti Al-Babtain ranked first in the ‘Car pur- chase’ for the purchase of a new car directly from an authorized car dealers, in addition to meet their satisfaction through offering vari- commented on this saying that: “Achieving ranking first in the after-sales service. This ous promotions and high quality services”. these leading positions by Infiniti indicates survey is done by “Service Hero” every year, “We are proud of our important achieve- the high standard service provided to the and is based on customers’ voting for best ments which are reflected in the awards we client. Thousands of survey participants in companies in customer care service in win that speak of our dedication and adop- voting for Infiniti increase our drive to pro- Kuwait. tion of the international quality standards and vide the best always, and to work harder on “Service Hero” is the first and only index customer care,” added Al-Babtain. preserving our leading position in serving in Kuwait measuring customers’ satisfaction, Laurent Pernet, GM Automotive division customers”.

appeared to soften his stance yesterday, seeking to impose sanctions on ABLV Latvian CB chief says victim of however, saying he could not rule out that Bank have highlighted concerns over a the bribery allegations were an attempt to number of small banks that operate in damage the reputation of Latvian authori- Latvia, often acting for clients based Congo seeks relief smear campaign after detention ties. The complaint against Rimsevics had abroad. come from Norvik Bank, a small Latvian The US Treasury’s Financial Crimes RIGA: Latvia’s central bank chief, who was der with Russia and has close links with its lender, the prime minister said in a state- Enforcement Network (FinCEN) accused talks with oil held in custody over the weekend on sus- former colonial master. ment, adding that Norvik’s owners had not Latvia’s third-largest lender ABLV Bank on picion that he solicited a bribe, said yester- “I have not demanded or received any provided evidence of wrongdoing despite Feb. 13 of “institutionalized money laun- traders over day he was the victim of a smear campaign bribes,” Rimsevics told a news conference being “repeatedly asked”. “If the owners dering” and helping breach North Korean because he has been leading a drive to yesterday. “I have become the target of of Norvik Bank have evidence that the sanctions. FinCEN said non-resident bank- $2bn debt stamp out corruption. Latvia’s financial some Latvian commercial banks to destroy management of the Bank of Latvia has ing in Latvia increased the risk that crimi- system has been rocked in recent days by Latvia’s reputation.” requested the President of the Bank of nals and shell companies could conduct LONDON: Congo Republic is set to become the latest US allegations that a leading bank Neither police nor the anti-corruption Latvia or another Latvian state official to fraudulent transactions or hide their finan- African country to start debt relief talks with trading engaged in money laundering and, sepa- authority have given details of the 100,000 take unlawful actions, I call for evidence to cial dealings. houses after borrowing $2 billion from merchants such as rately, by the arrest of central bank gover- euro bribe allegedly requested by be provided at the Corruption Prevention Last year, two Latvian banks were fined Trafigura and Glencore but now finding its debt levels nor Ilmars Rimsevics. Rimsevics’ sugges- Rimsevics, who sits on the European and Combating Bureau,” Kucinskis said. more than 2.8 million euros ($3.26 million) unsustainable, sources familiar with the matter said. tion he had been targeted because he was Central Bank’s Governing Council, which Norvik Bank did not immediately for allowing clients to violate sanctions Trading houses regularly lend money to resource-rich clients in financial distress - be it countries such as tough on corruption may deepen worries sets interest rates for the eurozone. On respond to a request for comment. The imposed by the European Union and Congo, Chad, Morocco or Iraq’s Kurdistan region - when about the transparency of the banking sec- Monday, Prime Minister Maris Kucinskis allegations against Rimsevics and a warn- United Nations on North Korea. Three other lenders walk away. But traders often charge heavy tor in the Baltic nation, which shares a bor- called on the central bank chief to quit. He ing from the United States that it was others received smaller fines. — Reuters interest on loans and require access to resources. Congo has recently appointed investment bank Lazard as an advisor to help it renegotiate debts with the traders, three banking and oil industry sources said. Lazard declined to comment. The move is similar to HSBC more than doubles Chad which has appointed Rothschild as an advisor in talks with Glencore and four bank lenders. The develop- pre-tax profits to $17.2bn ment in Congo is similar to the situation in Chad, which borrowed $1.45 billion from Glencore guaranteed by crude cargoes at a time of high oil prices. The central HONG KONG: Banking giant HSBC more of staff since 2015 as part of a wide-rang- African country was forced to seek a restructuring than doubled pre-tax profit to $17.2 billion ing overhaul, including the sale of its Brazil because it had to channel most oil revenue towards debt in 2017, it announced yesterday, after a business. Its strategy of expanding busi- repayments instead of its own budget when oil prices fell. recovery drive to streamline its business ness in the Pearl River Delta, an area of Negotiations to restructure the loan for a second time and slash costs. southern China including major cities such have been on-going since mid-2017 and became fraught Adjusted pre-tax profit also rose 11 per- as Hong Kong and Guangzhou, has boosted after Chad said it would cut off some of the oil going to cent year-on-year to $21 billion as revenue performance, with Asia business driving Glencore when the two sides clashed over the terms. Like growth outweighed operating expenses, more than 75 percent of reported and Chad, Congo Republic has come under pressure from the the bank said. But analysts said that adjusted profit in 2017, the bank said. IMF to restructure its debt, which trade sources fear may although HSBC had bounced back after Gulliver described HSBC as “simpler, result in painful and prolonged talks with the traders restructuring and a string of financial scan- stronger, and more secure” than it had been unwilling to unilaterally improve credit terms. dals, it missed some profit forecasts with when he became chief executive. But chair- “The Republic of Congo’s overall debt, including loans margins looking comparatively good in man Mark Tucker warned that while the from oil traders, is unsustainable and the authorities are 2017 because of specific one-off losses the bank was optimistic about the global econ- planning measures to restore medium-term debt sustain- previous year, including the sale of the omy in 2018, rising international tensions ability,” a spokesman for the IMF said. Glencore and Trafigura declined to comment. bank’s Brazil business. and the threat of protectionism could be Congo Republic’s finance ministry declined to com- The bank’s shares were down in after- disruptive. ment. Congo is seeking an IMF bailout and, as in the case noon trading, falling 2.09 percent in after- of Chad, the IMF has laid out tough terms before releas- noon trading at HK$81.8 ($10.5). Analysts Lack of focus echoed by Jackson Wong of Huarong years after it admitted to widespread mon- ing the funds. cited the lack of a reliable growth engine Yesterday’s surge in reported pre-tax International Securities. “Sometimes it ey laundering and sanctions violations. Congo is regularly singled out by anti-corruption due to inconsistent markets and the threat profit was a 141 percent rise on the $7.1 bil- might be in the US, sometimes it might be In a landmark case, the bank agreed to groups for the opaque management of its oil sector. In of US interest rate hikes as problematic for lion it posted in 2016. Net profit stood at in Europe, or sometimes they might think pay $1.9 billion in fines in 2012, after admit- December, the country pledged to cut its 2018 spending the bank, with a lack of clarity on share $9.7 billion in 2017, up from $1.3 billion (it’s) Asia, though none of these places is a ting it knowingly moved hundreds of mil- by 9 percent in a bid to win the IMF’s support. The IMF buybacks weighing on the stock price. year-on-year. consistent place that any bank has had a lions of dollars for Mexican drug cartels said in October that Congo’s public or publicly guaran- The results came as new chief executive “We have been waiting for so long for good grip,” Wong said, adding that US and illegally served clients in Iran, teed debt totalled $9.14 billion or around 110 percent of John Flint takes over from Stuart Gulliver, the comeback of HSBC and I do really think interest rises could impact the Asia market Myanmar, Libya, Sudan and Cuba in viola- its GDP as of the end of July. who steps down following seven years at that they are in better shape than other and its growth potential. Gulliver said the tion of US sanctions. Out of this total, the debt to traders represents about the helm. Flint, who was previously head of international banks,” said Dickie Wong of bank had strengthened its compliance sys- Under the terms of the settlement, fed- $2.3 billion, the country’s prime minister said in October, retail banking and wealth management at Kingston Securities Limited, citing dividend tems and ability to manage crime risk in the eral prosecutors agreed to drop all charges without providing a breakdown. He also said the country HSBC, has said he wants to accelerate the yields and cost efficiency as among its wake of a range of prosecutions and fines. after five years if the bank paid the fine, was weighing a moratorium on payments with private creditors. — Reuters pace of change at the bank. The Asia- strengths. But Wong said the firm still In December, US authorities lifted the took remedial action and avoided commit- focused firm has laid off tens of thousands needed to find a focus for growth, a view threat of prosecution against HSBC, five ting new violations. — AFP EXCHANGE RATES

Euro 374.910 Japanese Yen 3.810 Asia Al-Muzaini Exchange Co. Sterling Pound 421.960 Syrian Pound 1.585 Bangladesh Taka 0.003224 0.003808 Canadian dollar 241.290 Nepalese Rupees 2.927 Chinese Yuan 0.046071 0.049571 ASIAN COUNTRIES Turkish lira 80.500 Malaysian Ringgit 78.035 Hong Kong Dollar 0.036522 0.039272 Japanese Yen 2.752 Swiss Franc 324.500 Chinese Yuan Renminbi 47.690 Indian Rupee 0.004229 0.004870 Indian Rupees 4.695 Australian Dollar 239.620 Thai Bhat 10.535 Indonesian Rupiah 0.000018 0.000024 Pakistani Rupees 2.720 US Dollar Buying 299.450 Turkish Lira 80.195 Japanese Yen 0.002733 0.002913 Srilankan Rupees 1.946 Korean Won 0.000270 0.000285 Nepali Rupees 2.957 GOLD Malaysian Ringgit 0.073044 0.079044 Singapore Dollar 228.630 20 Gram 260.52 BAHRAIN EXCHANGE COMPANY WLL Nepalese Rupee 0.002997 0.003167 Hongkong Dollar 38.448 10 Gram 133.18 Pakistan Rupee 0.002520 0.002810 Bangladesh Taka 3.604 5 Gram 67.43 CURRENCY BUY SELL Philippine Peso 0.005697 0.005997 Philippine Peso 5.842 Europe Singapore Dollar 0.223360 0.233360 Thai Baht 9.524 Dollarco Exchange Co. Ltd British Pound 0.413951 0.421451 Sri Lankan Rupee 0.001641 0.002221 Czech Korune 0.0066717 0.016017 Taiwan 0.010306 0.010486 GCC COUNTRIES Danish Krone 0.045658 0.050958 Thai Baht 0.009198 0.009748 Saudi Riyal 80.227 Rate for Transfer Selling Rate Euro 0. 366328 0.373828 Qatari Riyal 82.630 US Dollar 300.050 Georgian Lari 0.133795 0.133795 Arab Omani Riyal 781.315 Canadian Dollar 239.305 Hungarian 0.001101 0.001321 Bahraini Dinar 0.790249 0.798749 Bahraini Dinar 798.860 Sterling Pound 420.810 Norwegian Krone 0.034545 0.039745 Egyptian Pound 0.014064 0.019782 UAE Dirham 81.932 Euro 373.195 Romanian Leu 0.064150 0.081000 Iranian Riyal 0.000083 0.000084 Swiss Frank 280.880 Russian ruble 0.005323 0.005323 Iraqi Dinar 0.000202 0.000262 ARAB COUNTRIES Bahrain Dinar 797.945 Slovakia 0.008914 0.018914 Jordanian Dinar 0.419076 0.428076 Egyptian Pound - Cash 19.700 UAE Dirhams 82.095 Swedish Krona 0.033555 0.038555 Kuwaiti Dinar 1.000000 1.000000 Egyptian Pound - Transfer 16.985 Qatari Riyals 83.325 Swiss Franc 0.315981 0.326981 Lebanese Pound 0.000154 0.000254 Yemen Riyal/for 1000 1.207 Saudi Riyals 80.910 Moroccan Dirhams 0.022647 0.046647 Tunisian Dinar 126.860 Jordanian Dinar 424.475 Australasia Omani Riyal 0.773942 0.779622 Jordanian Dinar 424.050 Egyptian Pound 17.060 Australian Dollar 0.229602 0.241602 Qatar Riyal 0.078223 0.083163 Lebanese Lira/for 1000 2.004 Sri Lankan Rupees 1.932 New Zealand Dollar 0.214699 0.224199 Saudi Riyal 0.079020 0.080320 Syrian Lira 0.000 Indian Rupees 4.666 Syrian Pound 0.001272 0.001492 Morocco Dirham 33.406 Pakistani Rupees 2.714 America Tunisian Dinar 0.121456 0.129456 Bangladesh Taka 3.639 Canadian Dollar 0.233358 0.242358 Turkish Lira 0.074441 0.084741 EUROPEAN & AMERICAN COUNTRIES Philippines Pesso 5.745 US Dollars 0.296300 0.300720 UAE Dirhams 0.080362 0.082062 US Dollar Transfer 300.650 Cyprus pound 17.863 US Dollars Mint 0.296800 0.300720 Yemeni Riyal 0.000976 0.001056 Established 1961 19 Business Wednesday, February 21, 2018 KIPCO continues collaboration with Tmkeen to support entrepreneurs Baim.com wins the award worth $100,000 this year

KUWAIT: KIPCO - the Kuwait Projects Company educate young business owners, and we are delighted (Holding) - continues to support young Kuwaiti entre- to have set up a platform together with Tmkeen, that preneurs through its collaboration with the Youth allows our professionals to share their accumulated Empowerment Symposium (Tmkeen) on the KIPCO business experience.” Tmkeen Award for Young Entrepreneurs. Running its KIPCO Group companies - including Burgan Bank, third year, this year’s winner of the award - worth OSN, Gulf Insurance Group, KAMCO Investment $100,000 in services from the KIPCO Group - was Company, United Real Estate, Qurain Petrochemical Baim.com, an educational Industries, AUK, AUS, online platform. United Networks and KIPCO Vice Chairman Marina FM - are sup- (Executive), Faisal Al- porters of the KIPCO Ayyar, received the Tmkeen Award for Tmkeen representatives Al-Ayyar Young Entrepreneurs. to discuss ways in which The KIPCO Group is more mentorship and receives one of the biggest hold- guidance can be provided ing companies in the by KIPCO and its Group Tmkeen reps Middle East and North companies to Kuwait’s Africa, with consolidat- young entrepreneurial ed assets of $32 billion community. Commenting as at 30 September on this occasion, KIPCO 2017. The Group has Group Communications significant ownership Director, Eman Al-Awadhi, said: “The creativity and interests in over 60 companies operating across 24 innovativeness of the young people of Kuwait is what countries. The group’s main business sectors are makes their business ideas strong. At KIPCO, we con- financial services, media, real estate and manufactur- stantly seek ways to support them and make their busi- ing. Through its core companies, subsidiaries and affil- KUWAIT: KIPCO’s Vice Chairman (Executive) Faisal Al-Ayyar (second from right) receives the recognition nesses more sustainable so that they can contribute to iates, KIPCO also has interests in the education and plaque from Tmkeen CEO, Ali Al-Ibrahim. the local economy. It is the duty of the private sector to medical sectors.

Japan hopes US Walmart shares returns to TPP, tumble after it WTO chief urges reports Q4 but eyes tough US to avoid earnings drop negotiation paralyzing NEW YORK: Walmart reported TOKYO: Japan welcomes a positive stance by the higher overall sales in the fourth trade system United States toward an Asia-Pacific trade pact, but quarter yesterday, but shares tum- indicated that altering the agreement at this point bled as the US retail giant’s earnings would be very difficult. Japan’s chief negotiator for were dented by higher costs and as GENEVA: The World Trade Organization chief, in the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), Kazuyoshi online sales growth slowed. an interview with AFP, urged the United States to Umemoto, told Reuters that an agreement among the Shares were down 6.5 percent in avert “paralysis” in the global trade dispute settle- remaining 11 member nations, set to be signed next pre-market trading to $97.94 after CHICAGO: In this file photo shows the Walmart logo displayed in the ment system, as economic tensions between month, may have had an impact on the United States. the chain reported a 42.1 percent window of a Walmart Neighborhood Market store in Chicago, Washington and China ratchet up. The Dispute “We have been working, motivated by hopes that drop in earnings to $2.2 billion for Illinois.—AFP Settlement Body (DSB) is seen as a crucial arm of the United States would return to the trade pact soon. the quarter ending January 31. the Geneva-based WTO, offering nations a forum Earnings translated to $1.33 a share, We welcome it becoming positive toward the TPP,” to work through grievances while avoiding an four cents shy of analyst expecta- markdowns associated with liquidat- the Jet.com acquisition, but also Umemoto said yesterday. exchange of tariffs that can ignite a trade war. tions, even as revenues rose 4.1 per- ing goods from 63 Sam’s Club stores due to unspecified “operational Japan took the lead in forging the revised trade While President Donald Trump’s protectionist cent to $136.3 billion. Walmart has that were shut down during the challenges that negatively impacted pact after President Donald Trump pulled the United administration has levelled hostile rhetoric towards spent aggressively in the last two quarter and from winding down a growth,” said Walmart chief execu- the WTO in general, the DSB has been crippled by States out of an earlier 12-nation version last year, Brazilian e-commerce venture. tive Doug McMillon. McMillon said years to expand its e-commerce direct action. saying he wanted to seek one-on-one deals that Earnings also were marred by one- the company would accelerate offerings and to boost employee pay Trump’s trade officials, who claim DSB rulings would be more beneficial to the US. Eleven countries time employee severance costs con- efforts such as “scan and go” and and beautify stores. unfairly favor developing nations like China, have finalized the pact in January and are expected to sign nected to the Sam’s closures. double its online grocery offerings Those efforts helped it produce a blocked the appointment of any new judges, inten- it in Chile on March 8. solid 2.6 percent gain in comparable The retailer’s effort to beef up its in the US in 2018. Last month, Trump told the World Economic e-commerce business to compete “We’re confident in our strategy sifying the backlog in a court already criticized for sales in US stores, which accounts working too slowly. “If nothing is done and if we Forum in Switzerland that it was possible Washington for more than half of revenues. with Amazon have included acquisi- to transform the company,” might return to the pact if it got a better deal. “It tions of Jet.com, smaller entities like McMillon told analysts in a confer- continue down this road, clearly there will be a However, quarterly earnings were paralysis of the system”, the WTO’s director-gen- probably was high-profile that we reached the agree- hit by a 3.2 percent increase in costs the men’s shopping line Bonobos ence call. “It’s really about providing eral Roberto Azevedo said. ment among the 11 nations since it was right before to $131.8 billion. Chief financial offi- and a joint venture with the Lord & more convenience to customers.” He added that he talks to the US “constantly” the Davos meeting. That probably had a certain cer Brett Biggs said about two- Taylor department store chain. The world’s biggest retailer pro- impact,” Umemoto said. The final text of the revised thirds of the drop in profit margin Walmart US saw e-commerce vided earnings projections for the about the judges issue, but that there were “no TPP, now called Comprehensive and Progressive was due to investments to keep sales increase 23 percent, slower current fiscal year of between $4.75 developments that would indicate that we are clos- Agreement For Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), is prices low and to the effect of sales than the 50 percent jump in the and $5.00 a share, a relatively low er to a solution”. The DSB is supposed to have sev- expected to be published today. —Reuters of lower-margin e-commerce items. third quarter. Most of this slow- range considering the consensus en judges to function properly, but currently only The remainder was because of down was due to the accounting of among analysts is for $4.97. —-AFP has four, one of whom is set to leave when their term expires in September. Each case must be heard by three judges. Azevedo said he was “relatively hopeful” the WTO’s 164 member-states are working on solu- BP sees self-driving tions that “will allow us to continue our work”. electric vehicles Trade war? The US Commerce Department earlier this month recommended imposing heavy tariffs on crimping oil China and other countries to counter a global glut in steel and aluminium which it says threatens demand by 2040 national security. China immediately vowed to pro- tect its interests. Trump is due to make a decision on possible tar- LONDON: The emergence of self-driving electric cars iffs next month, but analysts warn he may endorse and travel sharing are set to dent oil consumption by 2040, the measures, taking advantage of an opportunity oil and gas giant BP said, forecasting a peak in demand for to strike a highly public blow for his “America first” the first time. trade policy. In its benchmark annual Energy Outlook, BP forecast a 100-fold growth in electric vehicles by 2040, with its chief Should that happen, China could do what many economist Spencer Dale painting a world in which we nations have done in the past: assemble its lawyers travel much more but instead of using private cars, we and head to the DSB, arguing that the US actions increasingly share trips in autonomous vehicles. violate rules that aim to create a level-playing field While travel demand more than doubles over the period in global trade. But with Washington continuing to degrade the as economies in countries such as China and India grow, LONDON: Group Chief Executive of BP, Bob Dudley (C), speaks to journalists following the opening ses- higher oil demand will be more than offset by increased WTO’s mandate-both rhetorically and in practical sion at the International Petroleum (IP) Week 2018 conference in London yesterday. —AFP engine efficiency standards as well as the larger number of terms-some fear the world’s top two economies are EVs and shared travelling. on a collision course. Unlike many other forecasts, including previous BP shared mobility services. The average electric car is looks that stretched into 2035. While the transportation “The risk of a trade war is always present”, Energy Outlooks, which looked solely at the growing share expected to be driven about two and a half times more sector will continue to dominate the growth in oil con- Azevedo said. “There are periods when it is higher, of EVs in the car fleet, BP this year focused on the share of than an internal combustion car, according to Dale. sumption, demand for plastic manufacturing will become there are periods when it is less likely.” vehicles kilometers powered by electricity. “What we expect to see in the 2030s is a huge growth the main source of growth in the 2030s. Oil companies But he warned that tit-for-tat unilateral action, Under BP’s Evolving Transition scenario, which assumes in shared mobility autonomous cars ... Once you don’t have such as BP, Shell and France’s Total are betting on growing outside the multilateral system that the WTO safe- that policies and technology continue to evolve at a speed to pay for a driver, the cost of taking one of those share demand from the petrochemical sector in the coming guards, is cause for serious concern. “Once that similar to that seen in the recent past, some 30 percent of mobility fleets services will fall by about 40 or 50 per- decades. begins to happen you have the domino effect and car kilometers are powered by electricity by 2040 from cent,” Dale said. The vast majority of the shared mobility is Dale however said changes in regulations for plastics then it may spiral out of control very easily,” he expected to be EVs because of their lower maintenance almost zero in 2016. At the same time, the number of EVs consumption such as stringent policies on plastic bags and said. “Every now and again there is the tendency to is set to increase from 3 million today to over 320 million costs. Car makers including General Motors and high-tech packaging could dent oil demand by as much as 2 million take measures into ones’ hand and to fix it unilater- by 2040, representing roughly 15 percent out of a total car giants such as Google Waymo and Uber Technologies bpd, roughly the same as the impact of EVs. Overall ener- ally and that is always a dangerous road to go”. fleet of 2 billion. have poured billions into the autonomous vehicles industry gy demand will continue to grow in the coming decades, The gap between the increasing number of EVs on the hoping gain a first-mover advantage. Robo-taxi services rising by a third into 2040, or roughly 1.3 percent per year, road and the kilometers powered by electricity is due to are seen as the main use for most self-driving vehicles. driven by growth in China and India, but the world is No pullout the expected growth in so-called shared mobility by EVs, BP sharply raised its estimate of growth in electric learning to “do more with less energy” as economies During his presidential campaign, Trump called Dale said. “Cars will be used much more intensely over vehicles in the coming decades from last year’s forecast become more efficient, Dale said. the WTO a “disaster” and threatened to pull the US time,” Dale told reporters in a briefing on Monday ahead that EVs would reach 100 million by 2035. The big For example, the European Union’s gross domestic out if elected. While his administration has called of the release of the report yesterday. As a result, fuel upwards revision is due to an increase in hybrid cars and product is set to treble in 2040 from 1975 but the level of for sweeping reforms within the organization, the demand from the car fleet is forecast to dip to 18.6 million an expected sharp growth in EV purchases in the second energy demand will be the same. China’s energy demand pullout threat appears to have been more bark than barrels per day (bpd) in 2040 from 18.7 million bpd in half of the 2030s, Dale said. will continue to grow but at a slower pace by the 2030s, bite. “There is nothing in my conversations with the 2016, when it represented around one fifth of total oil when India will become the main driver of growth. BP once United States that remotely indicates the possibility demand, according to BP. Peak oil again revised upwards its forecast for growth in renewable that the US is leaving the WTO”, Azevedo told AFP. London-based BP joined other oil companies such as power, which is set to grow by 40 percent by 2040, with “They do have concerns with several things that Cheaper rides Royal Dutch Shell in forecasting a peak for oil demand in its share in the energy mix increasing from 4 percent to 14 are happening here, but they also said, number one, BP expects autonomous vehicles to become available in the late 2030s, when it is expected to slightly decline at percent. The revision is due to technological gains as well that the organization is very important and does a the early 2020s. Their initial high cost means the vast around 110 million bpd. as more aggressive government policies, particularly in lot of good.” —AFP majority of the cars will be bought by fleets offering It did not foresee a peak in demand in its previous out- India and China. — Reuters 20 Established 1961 Business Wednesday, February 21, 2018 Indian jeweler Modi denies role in massive bank fraud Officials probing over 100 shell companies for alleged involvement

NEW DELHI/MUMBAI: Indian billionaire jewel- are on the lookout for Modi and his family, who tory filing, denied Choksi’s involvement in the International effectively ceasing to be going- son whom a source described as the “authorised er Nirav Modi, one of the prime accused in the police say left India in January prior to the case alleged fraud. PNB did not immediately respond concerns,” he wrote in a letter seen by Reuters. signatory” of the companies tied to Modi country’s largest ever bank fraud, denies allega- being filed. “Everything is documented,” to the lawyer’s comments. The fraud case has “This thereby jeopardised our ability to dis- appeared at the weekend before a Mumbai tions leveled against him by Punjab National Aggarwal said of Modi’s dealings with PNB, stunned financial markets and wiped off $1.7 bil- charge the dues of the group to the banks.” Both court, which ordered them to be held in custody Bank (PNB), his lawyer said yesterday. adding that the bank had regularly levied fees on lion, or more than a quarter, of PNB’s market companies are controlled by Modi. The fraud until March 3. The alleged fraud occurred as “There is nothing, there is nothing in it,” Vijay its dealings with the jeweler’s firms. value. The stock ended little changed on Tuesday allegedly involves at least three firms controlled one PNB deputy manager, with the assistance of Aggarwal, a lawyer representing Modi told According to the police complaint, the two after falling in the past four sessions. by Modi and others by Choksi. one or more colleagues, issued more than 100 Reuters, referring to a police complaint filed by officials at a Mumbai branch of PNB fraudulently “Your actions have destroyed my brand and fraudulent Letters of Undertaking - essentially the state-run bank that says companies linked to steered credit to firms linked to Modi and enti- Jeopardized recovery the business and have now restricted your abili- guarantees sent to other banks so that they the jeweler and his relatives received credit worth ties tied to jewelry retailer Gitanjali Gems, led by Separately, in a letter to PNB officials, Modi ty to recover all the dues,” said Modi in the let- would provide loans to a customer. close to $1.8 billion between 2011 and 2017, using Modi’s uncle, Mehul Choksi. stated that his companies owed the bank less ter, accusing PNB of acting in haste and noting After entering the transactions on the SWIFT false guarantees supplied by two bank officials. “They’re covering themselves up,” Aggarwal than 50 billion rupees ($775.25 million), much that his firm has lwaysa been current on paying messaging system, the official, who worked at India’s financial crime fighting agency, one of the said referring to the PNB complaint. “They want lower than the amount alleged by the bank. He what it owed. the same branch from 2010 to 2017 despite nor- several that are investigating the fraud at the to avoid liability ... that is why they are cooking also said PNB had jeopardized its chances of mal bank practices of regular rotations - did not country’s second largest state lender, is probing up this story.” Asked about his legal strategy, recovering the sums owed by going public with Compulsory transfers record them on PNB’s internal system, according more than 100 shell companies suspected to have Aggarwal said there was no strategy while no its allegations. Five bank officials, including the two at the to the bank’s complaint. been used by Modi and others to route funds, a charges have been laid. “When there’s a “The erroneously cited liability resulted in a Mumbai branch, have so far been arrested. A PNB source said yesterday all its branches government source said yesterday. chargesheet, there will be a strategy,” he said. media frenzy which led to immediate search and Police on Tuesday sought a 14-day remand for have now been asked to reconcile SWIFT mes- Aggarwal, speaking by telephone, declined to Choksi, who has also left the country, has not seizure of operations, and which in turn resulted three of the men who were picked up the previ- sages with entries in their core banking system comment on Modi’s whereabouts. Indian officials commented on the matter. Gitanjali, in a regula- in Firestar International and Firestar Diamond ous day. The two branch officials and a third per- going back eight or nine years. — Reuters S&P, Dow falter after six days of gains NEW YORK: The S&P and the Dow slipped after six straight days of gains yesterday, hurt by disappointing quarterly results from Walmart and a rise in bond yields. Shares of the world’s biggest brick-and-mortar retailer fell more than 9 percent after the company reported a lower-than-expected profit and posted a sharp drop in online sales growth during the holiday period. Target dipped 2.6 percent, while Costco Wholesale dropped 1.6 percent, dragging the S&P consumer staples index down 1.62 per- cent. Amazon was up 0.9 percent. Other big decliner was Qualcomm, which fell nearly 4 percent after the chipmaker raised its offer to buy NXP Semiconductors NV to $127.50 per share from $110. NXP shares rose 6.2 percent. “The markets were indicating a lower open last night and an increase to the downside MANILA: Jose Pardo (center), chairman of the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE), makes a toast with offi- came after Walmart reported an earnings miss. We’re also seeing yields move up above the cials to mark the opening of the PSE’s new building in Taguig City, suburban Manila yesterday. — AFP 2.80/2.91, and that has markets a little bit con- cerned,” said Robert Pavlik, chief investment ly getting a little bit ahead of themselves. The would buy the part of the drug retailer that is strategist at SlateStone Wealth in New York. bond market is oversold, the yield environ- not being bought by Walgreens Boots. At 9:37 am ET, the Dow Jones Industrial ment is overbought, but that has not stopped Snapchat operator Snap slid 5.4 percent Average was down 0.32 percent at 25,138.98 the slowdown in equities,” said Pavlik. after Citigroup downgraded the stock to “sell”, and the S&P 500 fell 0.17 percent to 2,727.46. Minutes from the Federal Reserve’s January arguing negative reviews on an app redesign The Nasdaq Composite was down just 0.01 meeting on Wednesday will be at the center of might lead to a decline in users. Home Depot percent, at 7,238.57. The S&P 500 racked up this week’s trade, eyed for more clues on the rose nearly 1.6 percent after the largest US its biggest weekly increase in five years last central bank’s view on inflation and the pace home improvement chain’s quarterly profit beat week, easing fears that a deeper market cor- of future interest rate increases. Traders are market estimates for the sixth straight quarter. rection was taking hold after a handful of pricing in an 83.1 percent chance that the Fed Of the 399 companies in the S&P 500 that large daily losses at the start of February. will raise its main rates again in March, reported fourth quarter earnings through The spark for those falls was a rise in US according to the CME Group’s FedWatch tool. Friday, 76.4 percent have topped profit expec- bond yields, however, and benchmark 10-year Wall Street’s fear gauge, the CBOE volatili- tations, according to Thomson Reuters Treasury bond yields hit four-year highs of ty index, also edged up to 20.9, slightly above I/B/E/S. That is above the average 72 percent 2.8950 percent yesterday. The S&P financial Friday’s close of 19.46, but way off the 50 beat-rate over the past four quarters. Declining index was up 0.7 percent, led by gains in points it hit during the peak of the sell-off. issues outnumbered advancers on the NYSE Wells Fargo and JPMorgan & Chase. “The Rite Aid rose 6.3 percent after grocery by 1,617 to 980. On the Nasdaq, 1,550 issues market views rising interest rates as potential- chain operator Albertsons Companies said it fell and 956 advanced. — Reuters

Canada province readies EU vows to housing plan amid strike back crisis of affordability at Trump VANCOUVER: The British Columbia gov- demand levers in the NDP’s new housing ernment will unveil its long-awaited hous- policy, including a speculation tax and a trade threat ing strategy yesterday, taking aim at sky- widening of Vancouver’s foreign buyer tax, rocketing real estate prices and soaring introduced by the previous Liberal govern- BRUSSELS: The EU warned yesterday it rents that have crippled affordability in the ment in 2016, to include more cities. would take “appropriate measures” to West Coast Canadian province, particularly The median value of Vancouver homes defend its interests if the US imposes tough in Vancouver. The left-leaning New jumped to 11 times the median household trade sanctions as President Donald Trump Democratic Party (NDP) came to power income in 2016, up from a ratio of 9.4 times delivers on his protectionist policies. The US Commerce Department on Friday last year with a pledge to improve housing in 2011, data compiled by Yan show. By recommended imposing heavy tariffs on affordability and its first full budget is comparison, the ratio for Toronto rose to China, Russia and European exporters to expected to include measures to curb 8.3 in 2016 and was 4.9 for Canada, which counter a global glut in steel and aluminium, speculative demand, crack down on tax is skewed higher by the two cities, while 3 laying out an array of possible options in a cheats and money laundering, and stabilize or less is considered affordable. While report to Trump. The move hands Trump his housing markets. Foreign buyers have been Vancouver’s empty home tax and restric- first opportunity to deliver on the “America largely blamed for Vancouver’s red hot tions on home-sharing services like Airbnb First” trade promise, but has stoked fears of property market, where the gap between have helped slow detached home sales, retaliation and a global trade war. European home values and incomes has widened rap- demand for less-expensive condos has Commission spokesman Margaritis Schinas idly in the last five years, hitting levels well become frenzied, prompting some experts said Brussels would be “deeply concerned” above any other major Canadian city, to question whether any new policy will be by any sanctions hitting EU businesses. according to data analyzed for Reuters. effective. “We would be taking appropriate meas- This decoupling is heaping pressure on The Urban Development Institute, which ures to defend EU industry, and we stand the province to take action. Hundreds of represents developers, has warned the ready to react swiftly and appropriately in people rallied on Sunday in downtown NDP against imposing too many demand case our exports are affected by any restric- Vancouver demanding the government curbs, pushing instead for incentives for tive trade measures from the United States,” move swiftly to bring down home prices. purpose-built rental units and less red tape Schinas told a daily briefing. But Schinas insisted that international trade would always But some experts say it is not easy. to promote more multi-family construction. remain “win-win” if partners played by the “It’s about balancing supply and demand But critics say more supply alone will rules. “We are not in a trade war,” he said. without killing the golden goose,” said not help, as prices are already out of reach Trump has until mid-April to decide whether Andy Yan, director of The City Program at for people who live and work in Vancouver. he will move forward, with expectations high Simon Fraser University, noting British Some are calling for an outright foreign that any US action is likely to be challenged Columbia’s finances are dependent on the buyer ban, while others want measures to by exporting nations in the World Trade booming real estate sector, and efforts to ensure that global investors who buy Organization. The commission, which handles cool Vancouver’s hot market could hurt less through shell companies or local proxies, trade policy for the EU’s 28 member states, frothy cities. thus avoiding the foreign buyer tax, are still however refused to comment on reports that British Columbia has passed five straight paying their share. “Given that China has officials had already drawn up specific meas- balanced budgets and it is the only already restricted a lot of the capital flow- ures to counter Trump. Germany’s Canadian province with a triple-A credit ing out of their country, I think we’d be bet- Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung newspaper rating from all three international credit rat- ter to focus on the money that is already reported yesterday that Brussels was mulling ing agencies. “They’re going to need to here - that has been parked in our real tariffs on Harley-Davidson motorcycle approach this with a tool kit rather than a estate industry,” said Brad Barrett, who imports as well as bourbon from Tennessee magic bullet,” said Yan. runs the Facebook activist group and Kentucky. — AFP Experts anticipate a mix of supply and Vancouver is Falling. — Reuters 21 Established 1961

Business Wednesday, February 21, 2018 Kuwait Finance House goes live with ITS ETHIX-Net Al-Kheshnam: ETHIX-Net delivers a new gen of online banking

KUWAIT: International Turnkey Systems Group (ITS), the customers’ banking experience and maintain market leader- es solutions provider, ITS targets a wide range of industry market leading provider for comprehensive Islamic financial ship. With this latest ETHIX online banking module, the Bank segments to offers world-class IT solutions. The company solutions suite, has announced the successful installation of its will deliver a new generation of online banking.” He added: “As showcases excellent technology competencies and high-end pioneering ETHIX-Net internet banking modules for Kuwait KFHB’s long term, strategic digital partner, we look forward to skill capabilities to meet today’s dynamic market needs. Finance House, Bahrain (KFHB), further enhancing the Bank’s further collaborations that will see the Bank pioneer the deliv- ‘ETHIX’ is a modular banking system covering branch, ETHIX Islamic finance platform. ery of evolved banking solutions to their valued customers.” international and back office activities. It includes Retail, ETHIX-Net is a secure internet banking application and Abdulhakeem Y Al-Khayyat, Managing Director & CEO Wholesale, Corporate, Trade Finance and other functions. It part of ITS’s ETHIX product range. The new modules enable of KFHB said: “Enhancing customer experience and offering runs in more than 70 international banks in Middle East, North banks to offer advanced, user friendly online banking services the best digital banking services is our primary objective at African, and East Asian regions, as well as the Caribbean. for both retail and corporate customers. The product is KFH. ITS has a strong track record helping financial institu- ETHIX is an open system that consists of multiple modules; designed to be one of the core components that help Banks to tions leverage the latest technologies, so when the Bank Core Module, Central Module, Branch Module, and transform and adapt their business in the new Digital decide to deliver next generation banking, they were the International Module. It is known for being secure, flexible, Transformation age. obvious choice. Upgrading our core platform with ITS’s new parameterized, multilingual, multi-branch, Real on line support Commenting on the launch, Esam Al-Kheshnam, Chief ETHIX Net modules will help us achieve this objectives in for branches, and modules can be installed on a standalone Executive Officer of ITS, said: “KFHB have a strong track the long and short run.” mode. ETHIX represents the best process for the best per- record leveraging cutting edge technology to elevate their As a leading integrated information technology and servic- formance of the customer’s journey inside the branches.

Ford, Effat University VIVA launches help women make Kuwait Styrene ‘My VIVA Box’ history in Saudi with Co announces offer to celebrate safe-driving Course $94m in net ‘more’ this February DUBAI: Ford Motor Company is assisting Saudi Arabian profit for 2017 KUWAIT: VIVA, Kuwait’s fastest-growing and most women gain the power of mobility by hosting a special developed telecom operator, launched “My VIVA Box” Driving Skills for Life program with Effat University. Calling package starting at KD 31. Customers can enjoy “My on her fellow students to partake, Shams Hakim, Business HR KUWAIT: The Kuwait Styrene Company (TKSC), VIVA Box” as part of the February offers coinciding with student at Effat, made the announcement on YouTube yester- the first and only producer of styrene monomer in the National and Liberation Days of Kuwait. day, which you can view here: Dr Haifa Jamalallail president of Effat University, said: Kuwait, announced yesterday a net profit of $94 mil- “My VIVA Box”, February edition, will be the first of https://youtu.be/JN5r8gI9qbM. “Effat University is well known for its innovative education, lion for the fiscal year ending in December 31, 2017. “My VIVA Box” series to be launched giving customers a The groundbreaking course - DSFL For Her - follows the driving women forward to take their rightful places in society TKSC CEO Adel Al-Munifi, stated, “TKSC main- variety of choices designed to suit their needs on different landmark decision last year by the Kingdom, as decreed by and the workforce. We are proud to be able to partner with tained a strong performance in 2017 driven by an occasions. With lots of fun and festivities, “My VIVA Box” His Highness, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, to lift the Ford to ensure that our students are also prepared to become optimized worldwide sales strategy and cost-effi- packs the right combination of choices to make the cus- ban on females driving in Saudi Arabia. “Ford Motor responsible, safe drivers. We believe in driving change, but ciency measures that enabled us to continue deliver- tomers’ celebrations ‘more’ entertaining and offers 3 SIM Company was built on the belief that freedom of movement driving safely, and this is exactly what the Safe Driving Skills ing a high-quality product cards (voice postpaid, family shared and shared data), free drives human progress, so we are honored to have the oppor- for Life program is all about.” to our solid customer base router, smartphones and gaming devices. tunity to support women in the Kingdom during such an Driving Skills for Life is an international initiative for road while performing a number On the occasion of the National Day and Liberation extraordinary time, and to welcome them to the driver’s seat,” safety created by Ford Fund in cooperation with the of planned maintenance Day, VIVA congratulates His Highness the Amir Sheikh said Jim Vella, president, Ford Motor Company Fund. “Our Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) and a panel of works at the plant to Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, His Highness the DSFL For Her program provides access to training and expe- safety experts. Ford’s signature award-winning program cap- enhance and sustain com- Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, riences that will help women feel safe and confident as they tures newly-licensed drivers’ interest with free, hands-on petitiveness and profitabili- the Government and the people of Kuwait. get behind the wheel.” ride-and-drive courses that pair new drivers with profession- ty on the long-term.” In VIVA is the fastest-growing telecom operator in Based on its award-winning global safe driving initiatives, al driving instructors and focus on the issues and obstacles 2017, the global styrene Kuwait. Launched in December 2008, VIVA makes things DSFL has customized an introductory program which focuses that cause crashes, including impaired and distracted driving. monomer (SM) market ‘More’ for its customers by transforming communication, on building women’s confidence behind the wheel, expanding Now in its 15th year, Ford Driving Skills for Life has pro- continued to recover, with information and entertainment experiences. The company their automotive knowledge, preparing them to take their vided free training to more than one million newly-licenced average prices reaching has rapidly established a pioneer position in the market driving lessons and instilling safe driving practices before drivers in more than 40 countries worldwide. In total, Ford Adel Al-Munifi $1200 per metric ton. through its customer centric approach. VIVA’s quest is to they tackle public roads. has invested more than $40 million in DSFL initiatives world- Al-Munifi added, “The be the mobile brand of choice in Kuwait by being trans- This will be the first-ever DSFL For Her introductory pro- wide as part of its long-standing commitment to promoting Company’s continued prof- parent, engaging, energetic and fulfilling. VIVA continues gram anywhere in the world, with certified trainers providing safety on the road. Since its Middle East launch in 2013, more itability is supported by our world-class operational to take a considerable share of the market by offering an the training on closed roads at Effat University’s Jeddah campus. than 3,600 students have participated in Ford’s Driving Skills standards, making TKSC one of the most successful innovative range of best value products, services and con- The four-day DSFL For Her, held between March 5-8, will for Life program, with sessions in three different cities across joint ventures established in Kuwait. The Company tent propositions; a state of the art, nationwide network train more than 250 Effat University students, incorporating Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates last year alone. continues to add significant value to its shareholders and world-class service. four specific modules of in-vehicle experience - Learning The new DSFL For Her installment will be an on-going thanks to its strong position in the global industry. On About Your Vehicle, Distraction, Impairment, and Braking - program for women drivers in the Kingdom, with phase two behalf of the board and management, we thank preceded by a briefing with the lead instructor. coming later this year. EQUATE Petrochemical Company, Kuwait Paraxylene Production Company (KPPC) and The Kuwait Olefins Company (TKOC), public institutions and customers for their continued support. Al-Munifi concluded, “With a strong financial position and an operational strategy to increase effi- ciency, TKSC is set to continue its growth in 2018.” The Kuwait Styrene Company (TKSC) was estab- lished in 2004 as an international joint venture between the Kuwait Aromatics Company (KARO) and the Dow Chemical Company (Dow). TKSC is part of greater EQUATE, operated by EQUATE Petrochemical Company, which also includes Kuwait Paraxylene Production Company (KPPC) and The Kuwait Olefins Company (TKOC). The firms operate under one integrated umbrella in Kuwait.

Gulf Bank announces winners of Al-Danah daily draws

KUWAIT: Gulf Bank held its Al-Danah daily draws on should support the euro and the euro zone banking sector, 18 February 2018 announcing the names of its winners Eurozone yields while exerting upside pressure on euro zone bond yields,” for the week of 11 February - 15 February 2018. The Al- he said in a note. Danah daily draws include draws every working day for The ECB is largely expected to end extraordinary stim- two prizes of KD 1,000 per winner. Five reasons why the Al-Danah account is the best: up as ECB ulus sooner rather than later, potentially by the end of 1) Kuwait’s single biggest yearly cash prize of KD 1 2018, having cut the program by half at the start of the The winners are: million and the largest international bank prize year. This has pushed bond yields sharply higher in recent (Sunday 11/02): Zahrah Ali Ahmed Laftah, Shafika according to Guinness World Records speculation mounts weeks, but a recent sell off in stocks and oil, along with Mehdi Mohammed 2) Kuwait’s biggest quarterly cash prizes, up to KD some political uncertainty in Germany, kept a lid on yields 500,000 LONDON: Eurozone government bond yields edged (Monday 12/02): Saleh Mahdi Omran Al-Jumaah, on speculation that the ECB would tread cautiously. 3) Two winners of KD 1,000 every working day higher across the board yesterday as market speculation Ghalaa Yousef Fereeh Al-Khouotee But yields have cautiously edged higher this week so 4) The most chances to win swirled over the next European Central Bank chief at a (Tuesday 13/02): Alaa Ammar Ibrahim Jamal, Hadi far. The yield on Germany’s 10-year government bond 5) Only Bank that transfers your chances to win from time when monetary policy is the main threat for bond Lafi Abdullah yield, the benchmark for the region, was up 2 bps to the previous year to the current year markets. Eurozone finance ministers on Monday chose (Wednesday 14/02): Mohammad Tahseen 0.75 percent at one stage, before settling at around Spanish Economy Minister Luis de Guindos to succeed Abdulrahman Khanfar, Maryam Abdullah Sultan Al- 0.74 percent. Only Al-Danah makes millionaires ECB Vice President Vitor Constancio in May, a move seen Malki It had dipped as low as 0.699 percent at the end of Al-Danah also offers a number of unique services boosting the chances of someone from one of the “core” (Thursday 15/02): Nahla Salem Faleh Al-Azmi, last week. French government bonds mirrored that including: The Al-Danah Deposit Only ATM card euro zone countries becoming head of the ECB next year Shaker Abbas Hasan Al-Mutawa move, taking the country’s 10-year borrowing costs to which helps account holders deposit their money at when Mario Draghi steps down. Gulf Bank’s Al-Danah 2018 draw lineup includes daily around 1 percent. their convenience; as well as the Al-Danah calculator This in turn is seen as increasing the likelihood that the draws (two winners per working day each receive KD Speculation over inflation in the United States has also to help customers calculate their chances of becoming central bank takes a more “hawkish” stance in the future, 1000). Al-Danah’s 1st quarterly draw for the prize of KD contributed to a recent rise in yields, and as the US an Al-Danah winner. erring on the side of tighter policy, which is negative for 200,000 will be held on 28 March, the 2nd quarterly Treasury prepares to sell over a quarter of a trillion dol- Gulf Bank’s Al-Danah account is open to Kuwaiti European government bonds. draw for the prize of KD250,000 will be held on 27 June lars’ worth of new debt this week, borrowing costs were and non-Kuwaiti residents of Kuwait. Customers For example, Bundesbank President Jens Weidmann, and the 3rd Quarterly Draw for the prize of KD 500,000 up both sides of the Atlantic. The yield on 10-year US require a minimum of KD 200 to open an account and seen as one of the candidates for the top policymaker will be held on 26 September. The final Al-Danah draw Treasuries were up 2.5 bps to 2.90 percent and the the same amount must be maintained as for customers position, has consistently argued against the ECB’s 2.55 for KD 1 million will be held on 10 January, 2019 where- “transatlantic spread” over the German equivalent was at to be eligible for the upcoming Al-Danah draws. If the trillion euro bond-buying scheme that pushed yields to by the Al-Danah millionaire will be announced. 216 bps, close to a recent high. customer’s account balance falls below KD 200 at any record lows in recent years. “An ECB under Weidmann Gulf Bank encourages you to increase your chances Also yesterday, Germany sold 3.99 billion euros of 2- given time, a KD 2 charge will be made on a monthly would lead to a faster interest rates normalization path by depositing more into your Al-Danah account, imme- year “Schatz” after orders fell just short of the maximum 5 basis to the account until the minimum balance is met. than would otherwise be the case,” said Ricardo Garcia, an diately from any local bank, using the new ePay (Self- billion euro deal size. Meanwhile, Spain attracted over 22.5 Customers who open an account and/ or deposit economist at UBS Wealth Management. Pay) service, which is available on Gulf Bank’s Online billion euros of demand for its first 30-year syndicated more will enter the daily draw within two days. “Given the high sensitivity of markets to the ECB, this and Mobile Banking. benchmark bond sale in nearly two years. — Reuters 22 Established 1961 Health Wednesday, February 21, 2018 Babies born in poorest countries still face ‘alarming’ risks: UNICEF

‘The majority of these deaths are preventable’

WASHINGTON: Babies born in the world’s Every Child Alive, aimed at ensuring fare far better, but there are differences poorest countries, most of them in Africa, “affordable, quality health care solutions for within countries. Babies born to the poorest still face “alarming” risks of death that can every mother and newborn.” More than 80 families are 40 percent more likely to die be 50 times as high as those in the richest percent of newborn deaths can be prevent- than those born to the least poor. Sadly typ- countries, according to a UNICEF report ed, the report says, “with access to well- ical was the story of Mary James, an 18- released yesterday. While the last quarter- trained midwives, along with proven solu- year-old from rural Malawi. When her labor century has seen broad improvements in tions like clean water, disinfectants, breast- started, she and her sister made the long older children’s health, “we have not made feeding within the first hour, skin-to-skin trek to a health center on foot. When her similar progress in ending deaths among contact and good nutrition.” But shortages baby was delivered, he was small and terri- children less than one month old,” said of properly trained health workers and mid- bly weak. She says an overstretched staff Henrietta Fore, UNICEF’s executive did its best, but by night the child director. was gone. “Given that the majority of these “I felt like my heart was break- deaths are preventable, clearly we are ing,” James told UNICEF staff. “I failing the world’s poorest babies.” had a name for the child but he nev- The differences are stark. A baby Major problem er opened his eyes.” Since improve- born in Pakistan-the country with the ments to health care can be expen- worst newborn mortality rate-faced a in poorer sive, “it is crucial to invest the money one in 22 chance of death, while a in a smart way,” UNICEF’s global newborn in Japan had only a one in nations maternity and newborn program 1,111 risk of dying, the report said. chief Willibald Zeck told AFP. That can mean something as simple as Preventable deaths ensuring that a pregnant woman Of the 10 highest-risk countries, who has walked three days to a eight are in sub-Saharan Africa, health care facility is received with countries where “pregnant women are much wives are a major problem in poorer “dignity,” so she remains long enough to less likely to receive assistance,” due to nations. receive proper postnatal care. YAMBIO: In this file photo taken on March 11, 2014 a midwife cuts the umbilical cord of a poverty, conflict or weak institutions, While a rich country like Norway has 18 But the dearth of expensive equipment newborn baby in a ward of the public hospital of Yambio, in the south of South Sudan. — AFP according to the report. Those eight coun- doctors, nurses and midwives for every matters. Zeck, who worked as an obstetri- tries are the Central African Republic (a one 10,000 people, impoverished Somalia has cian/gynecologist in Tanzania, said women systems... is critical,” the report said. The countries with the lowest newborn mor- in 24 chance of death); Somalia, Lesotho, only one. Every year, one million babies die were often unsure how pregnant they were, Education matters, too. Babies born to tality rates, after Japan, are mostly well-off Guinea-Bissau and South Sudan (all with a the day they are born. “We know we can and he would have to use his hands to esti- mothers with no education face nearly twice countries with strong education and health one in 26 chance); Cote d’Ivoire (one in 27) save the vast majority of these babies with mate whether a fetus was premature or seri- the risk of early death as babies whose care systems: Iceland (a one in 1,000 and Mali and Chad (both with a one in 28 affordable, quality health care solutions,” ously underweight. Still, among countries mothers have at least a secondary educa- chance of death), Singapore (one in 909), chance). Each year, some 2.6 million babies Fore said. that have made dramatic improvements is tion. The United States-generally affluent, Finland (one in 833), Estonia and Slovenia do not survive through their first month. low-income Rwanda, which more than but with considerable income inequality and (both one in 769), Cyprus (one in 714) and The report was released in conjunction Rwandan success story halved its rate from 1990 to 2016, illustrating wide variations in access to health care-was Belarus, Luxembourg, Norway and South with the launch of a global campaign, called In general, babies born in richer countries that “political will to invest in strong health only the 41st safest country for newborns. Korea (all with risks of one in 667). — AFP

Light pollution threatens especially in poor countries-is thought 1 in 9 people to be an important factor in post- Chile’s skies operative infections. The study, published in The Lancet infected after Infectious Diseases, tracked more than PARANAL: It seems nothing can escape the 12,500 surgeries in 343 hospitals from inexorable spread of light pollution-not even January to July 2016. Before surgery, the giant telescopes probing the heavens gut surgery 96 percent, 87 percent, and 88 per- above northern Chile, a region whose pris- cent of patients were given antibiotics tine dark skies, long considered a paradise in low-, middle- and high-income for astronomers, are under increasing threat. PARIS: More than 12 percent of peo- nations respectively. Levels of post- The Atacama desert, 1,200 kilometers north ple who have gastrointestinal surgery surgery antibiotic treatment were 86 of the capital Santiago, provides ideal condi- become infected within 30 days of percent, 80 percent, and 46 percent. tions where astronomers study the stars in going under the knife, researchers said Antibiotic resistance varied according darkness so profound they appear like dia- In this file photo taken on February 06, 2018 astronomers check a telescope at the Observatory in a study covering 66 countries. For to a country’s income level, ranging monds on velvet. in Paranal, some 1150 km north of Santiago, Chile. — AFP low-income nations, the incidence of from 17 percent in rich nations to 36 Scientists estimate that by 2020, Chile-a so-called surgical site infection was double the global average, according percent in developing ones. critically important country for optical and risk,” threatening the profound nocturnal vatory are prohibited anything but their to the results, based on data compiled The most common types of surgery radio astronomy-will host 70 percent of the darkness required for the study of phenomena parking lights. Flashlights, if needed, are by a consortium of 2,500 doctors and involved the removal of the gall blad- globe’s astronomical infrastructure. But the such as solar flares, planetary nebulae, black turned to the ground. researchers. der or appendix. Half of patients had ever-expanding use of cheap light-emitting holes and supernovas. Astronomers’ residences at the base — In wealthy countries, the rate of emergency surgery. Surgical-site diode (LED) lighting in the booming South Fueling the threat, he adds, are communi- 2,635 meters above sea level-are dimly-lit, to post-op infection was nine percent, infections tripled the odds of dying American country is starting to concern ties such as Antofagasta, Coquimbo and La avoid interfering with observation of the and for middle-income nations it was during or soon after an operation, the astronomers desperately trying to safeguard Serena, where LED lights are increasingly galaxies above. But the urban boom has been 14 percent. In addition, one in five study found. Altogether, five percent some of the world’s darkest skies. used in homes, streetlights, store signs and an unstoppable reality for 20 years in north- infections were resistant to antibiotics of the operations reviewed for the “Unfortunately, as we have more and more billboards. A study published in December in ern Chile, where cities have felt the economic given before surgery as a preventive study resulted in death. “The cost of a white lights, the deterioration of the skies has the journal Science Advances has shown that effects of the boom in copper, of which the measure, the study found. “This surgical site infection-in terms of mor- increased by up to 30 percent compared to global lighting has increased in both quantity South American country is the world’s largest increased to one of three cases in low- tality, morbidity, health-care costs, and the end of the last decade,” said scientist and intensity by about 2 percent per year producer. Halos of light above towns are eas- income countries,” said the University loss of productivity-is enormous,” Pedro Sanhueza. from 2012 to 2016. ily visible from observatories within a 150 of Edinburgh’s Ewen Harrison, leader Robert Sawyer, a researcher at Chile takes the problem of light pollution so kilometer radius. of the GlobalSurg Collaborative which Western Michigan University’s Homer seriously that Sanhueza heads up an organiza- Urban boom “We have measured the impact of this and seeks to improve patient outcomes Stryker M.D. School of Medicine, said tion called the Office for the Protection of At the Paranal Observatory deep in the we have already experienced difficulties after surgery. Overuse of antibiotics- in a comment. — AFP Quality of the Sky (OPCC). Its main task is to Atacama desert, which houses the European making observations at 20 degrees above the make the people of northern Chile aware of Southern Observatory’s Very Large horizon. That’s going to increase a lot and the particularly high night-sky quality and the Telescope array-consisting of four tele- will prevent us from studying the furthest negative impacts of light pollution. Sanhueza scopes-staff are doing all they can to limit stars,” said Chris Smith, head of the observa- says that though the quality is good, the sky light leaking out into the atmosphere. After tory at Tololo, some 80 kilometers from the over northern Chile is becoming “an area of sunset, vehicles travelling around the obser- town of La Serena. — AFP found the bacterial strain causing the Superbug outbreak is now resistant to five antibi- otics in total, more than seen in any outbreak before. typhoid strain “This is the first time we have seen Linger over lunch an outbreak of extensively drug-resis- behind Pakistan tant typhoid,” said Elizabeth Klemm, who co-led the analysis work at the in order to Sanger Institute. “This outbreak was outbreak caused by a multidrug-resistant strain lose weight that had gone a step further and acquired an extra piece of DNA encod- PARIS: People who wolf down their food LONDON: An outbreak of typhoid ing additional genes for antibiotic could lose weight simply by chewing longer fever in Pakistan is being caused by an resistance.” Typhoid is a highly conta- and pausing between bites, study results sug- extensively drug resistant “superbug” gious infection caused by the gested yesterday. Research involving nearly strain, a sign that treatment options for Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi bac- 60,000 Japanese people showed a link the bacterial disease are running out, teria. It is contracted by consuming between eating slower or faster, and losing or scientists said yesterday. Researchers contaminated foods or drinks and gaining weight. “Changes in eating speed can from Britain’s Wellcome Sanger symptoms include nausea, fever, affect changes in obesity, BMI and waist cir- In this file combination photo created on April 01, 2016 in Paris shows (From L) obese people Institute who analysed the genetics of abdominal pain and pink spots on the cumference,” a research duo from Japan’s in Los Angeles, Mexico City and Manchester. — AFP the typhoid strain found it had mutated chest. Untreated, it can be fatal. Kyushu University wrote in the journal BMJ and acquired an extra piece of DNA to Scientists at Aga Khan University in Open. “Interventions aimed at reducing eat- Type 2 diabetes-a form of the disease that the fast-eating group of 22,070 people, become resistant to multiple antibi- Pakistan anxious to find ways to tackle ing speed may be effective in preventing obe- generally hits in adulthood as a result of was obese, with a mean BMI of 25. The otics. An outbreak of drug-resistant an ongoing outbreak there contacted sity and lowering the associated health risks.” being overweight. The participants had regu- team also noted changes in eating speed typhoid that began in Hyderabad in the Sanger in the spring of 2017 and BMI stands for Body Mass Index, a ratio of lar check-ups from 2008 to 2013. Data cap- over the six years, with more than half the Pakistan in November 2016 is still asked scientists there to genetically weight-to-height used to determine whether tured included their age and gender, BMI, trial group reporting an adjustment in one spreading, according to experts from analyse samples. The team found it was a person falls within a healthy range. The waist circumference, blood pressure, eating direction or the other. “The main results Aga Khan University who worked with being caused by a strain known as H58, WHO considers someone with a BMI of 25 habits, alcohol consumption, and tobacco use. indicated that decreases in eating speeds the Sanger team. which is already known to be linked to overweight, and 30 or higher obese. In line From the outset, the slow-eating group of can lead to reductions in obesity and BMI,” Official data on case numbers and drug-resistant cases. Looking further, with recommendations by the Japanese 4,192 had a smaller average waist circumfer- they found. Other factors that could help deaths are not available, but local they found this H58 strain had gained Society for the Study of Obesity, however, a ence, a mean BMI of 22.3, and fewer obese people lose weight, according to the data, Pakistan media reports say health an extra strand of bacterial DNA - a BMI of 25 was taken as obese for Japanese individuals — 21.5 percent of the total. included to stop snacking after dinner, and authorities detected more than 800 plasmid - that encoded for additional populations for the purposes of the study. not to eat within two hours of going to bed. cases of drug-resistant typhoid in antibiotic resistance genes. The study’s The researchers analysed health insurance It’s not a race Skipping breakfast did not seem to have Hyderabad alone in a 10-month period results were published in the scientific data from 59,717 individuals diagnosed with By comparison, more than 44 percent of any effect. — AFP between 2016 and 2017. The researcher journal mBio. —AFP Established 1961 23 Health Wednesday, February 21, 2018 Vampire bat’s blood-only diet a big evolutionary win: Study It’s a miracle Dracula lived as long as he did PARIS: At first glance, the cost-benefit ratio of a blood- as many so-called transposable elements, DNA fragments only diet suggests that vampire bats-the only mammals to that can shift position. These vagabond bits of genetic feed exclusively on the viscous, ruby-red elixir-flew down code were concentrated in regions that govern the an evolutionary blind alley. Blood is not only teaming immune system and metabolism, functions that differed with bacterial and viral dis- sharply compared to other ease, it is also very poor in species. nutrients-too few carbs and D rotundus, for example, vitamins, way too much salt. can assimilate or process the It’s a miracle Dracula lived as high levels iron and nitrogen long as he did. But natural waste found in blood. Its gut, selection, according to a study Vampire bats have meanwhile, hosts an impres- published Monday, overcame sive arsenal of protective bac- these challenges and fash- an ‘extreme’ diet teria-hundreds of which cause ioned a genetic profile and disease in other mammals- intestinal ecosystem perfectly that produce anti-viral sub- suited to a life of silent blood stances. Enter the microbio- sucking. me, recently discovered to “Vampire bats have an ‘extreme’ diet, in the sense that vary enormously not only from species to species, but A handout photo taken on May 4, 2016 and released on February 19, 2018 by Nature shows a it requires many adaptations in the organism,” said lead from individual to individual within the same species common vampire bat (Desmodus rotundus) going out for its nocturnal hunt. — AFP author Lisandra Zepeda Mendoza, a biogeneticist at the (notably humans). University of Copenhagen and an expert on the microbio- me, the community of microorganisms camped out in the Generous feeders “The beauty of it was that if they cracked the blood- The common vampire bat feed mostly on mammals, digestive tract. To find out how the common vampire bat- “We wanted to look at how the genome and the gut diet code-and they did-then food became very plentiful, including humans, often returning night-after-night to the aka Desmodus rotundus-engineered those changes, microbiome work together to overcome the challenge” of a with not very much competition,” he said by email. “It was same animal for a meal. Recent research has shown that D. Mendoza and a 30-strong team of scientists sequenced its blood-only diet, said co-author Tom Gilbert, among a a big evolutionary win.” The three species of blood-drink- rotundus can recognize individual humans by their breath- genome and microbiome. growing number of biogeneticists championing the more ing bats, all native to Latin America, have razor-sharp ing sounds, much in the way we can differentiate voices. Both, they discovered, stand apart from the 1,200 other inclusive concept of “hologenome.” Gilbert speculated that teeth that shave away hair before piercing their victims’ Vampire bats are also surprising generous, willing to share species of bats that favor fruits, flesh, and/or insects. For vampire bats might have eased into pure-blood diet, start- skin and opening the spigot. a (regurgitated) meal with a fellow bat that missed out, starters, the genome-while typical in size-contains twice ing with blood-gorged insects such as tics and mosquitoes. Chemicals in the saliva prevent blood from coagulating. even if they are not related. — AFP

ing to many national health authorities, workouts must be also appears to be more realistic. Only 16 percent of the body-worn activity monitors has enabled us to investigate No-sweat exercise strenuous and more long-lasting. In Britain, for example, volunteers lived up to current British exercise guidelines in whether light activity is linked to longevity,” said Jefferis. the elderly are advised to do moderate-to-intense exercise sessions of at least 10 minutes. Two-thirds, however, did hit The men, who averaged 78 years old, were monitored for at least 150 minutes per week, divied up into segments of the weekly, 150-minute quota in shorter snippets of activi- five years, during which time 194 of them died. The study may prolong life no less than 10 minutes. “UK and US physical activity ty. The research drew on data from the British Regional showed that each additional 30 minutes-a-day of light- guidelines don’t mention any benefits of light activity,” lead Heart Study, which began in 1978 with nearly 8,000 par- intensity exercise was associated with a 17 percent reduc- for the elderly author Barbara Jefferis, an epidemiologist at University ticipants aged 40 to 59 from a couple dozen towns scat- tion in the risk of death. College London, told AFP. “When those guidelines were tered across Britain. In 2012, the 3,137 men still living As expected, a half-an-hour of moderate-to-vigorous PARIS: A few hours a week of light exercise-walking the written there wasn’t enough evidence to make a recom- underwent a physical check-up, and answered questions activity reduced the risk by even more — 33 percent. dog, puttering about in the garden-lower the risk of death mendation.” about their lifestyle and sleeping patterns. What counted, however, was the total time spent exercis- in older men, even if workouts are brief, researchers said The study, which tracked 1,200 men without heart dis- ing, not how the time was divided up. The men who yesterday. Their findings, reported in the British Journal of ease in their early 70s and late 80s, says such guidelines Couch potatoes engaged in brief, sporadic bouts of moderately intense Sports Medicine, challenge two long-held assumptions should be revised. “The results suggest that all activities- The study focused on 1,181 participants who wore an activity mowing the lawn, swimming, walking briskly-were about the benefits of physical activity for the elderly. no matter how modest-are beneficial,” Jefferis said. accelerometer-a device that tracks the volume and intensi- as likely to avoid the grim reaper as men whose exercise To improve health and reduce the risk of dying, accord- Encouraging older adults to engage in no-sweat exercise ty of physical exercise-for seven days. “The availability of time was parcelled into longer sessions.—AFP 24 Established 1961 What’s On Wednesday, February 21, 2018 Ooredoo releases National Holidays song

oredoo Kuwait released a new song on YouTube dedicated to Kuwait on Othe occasion of the National Holidays. The song achieved more than 2 million views within 3 days on global social media platform YouTube. The release of the song comes to reiterate Ooredoo’s commitment to taking a proactive role in sharing the joy of this auspi- cious occasion with the people of Kuwait. The song, which is entitled “Devotees for a Country,” is sung by a chorus of young women and men, and was written by lyricist Saad Al Musallam, composed by Fahad Al- Nasser. It features Kuwaiti singer Abdulaziz Al-Duwaihi, who appears in a traditional Kuwaiti ‘samra’ segment, which is a casual friendly gathering of live music-playing and song that is popular in Kuwait and the Khaleej region. The song’s video also features the 7th gen- short timeframe, Ooredoo Kuwait’s festive celebratory spirit of this important the deep-rooted love and devotion that the Reflecting Ooredoo’s commitment to eration of the Protoges, the youth develop- Corporate Communications Senior Director occasion.” people from across all Kuwait’s diverse soci- enriching youth, the song features a consor- ment program sponsored by Ooredoo for Mijbil Alayoub said, “We dedicate this song On her part, Ooredoo Kuwait’s Branding ety have for their country. The lyrics, likewise, tium of Ooredoo’s athletic youth brand the second consecutive year. It is directed to the leadership and the people of Kuwait Senior Manager Fatima Al-Mukhaizeem not- are a blend of classical Arabic and Kuwaiti ambassadors, such as triatheletes Najlaa Al- by Ahmed Al-Najjar. on the happy occasions of the Liberation ed that the song’s video blends between the dialect, to reflect the same spirit of harmony Juraiwi and Abdulaziz Al-Rashed, in addition Commenting on the release of the song Day and National Day. We hope that it traditional Kuwaiti heritage and culture with between the traditional and the modern in to Kuwaiti equestrian Rakan Al- Hassawi. and its widespread success within such a touches their hearts and contributes to the modern and trendy youth culture, to reflect contemporary Kuwait. Sheraton Kuwait celebrates Symphony Style Hotel is the National & primary destination for Liberation Days National celebrations uwait National Day and Six Senses Spa located in the n the occasion of the 57th National Liberation Day holidays are on hotel’s 2nd floor, is your destination for Day, the 27th Liberation Day, the 12 Kthe horizon and Symphony ultimate relaxation during your stay. years of His Highness the Amir’s reign, Style Hotel Kuwait, the jewel of This renowned spa offers unique and O Kuwait City welcomes you to enjoy an locally inspired body treatments, sig- Sheraton Kuwait raised the banner of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad exceptional stay during these days. nature facials and the traditional Al-Jaber Al Sabah and Sheikh Nawaf Al- Located on the shores of Kuwait Bay, Hammam which allows you to get a Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Crown Prince of decades of the opening of the Sheraton the General Manager of Sheraton Kuwait the hotel is the prime spot in the city journey of full pampering and rejuve- Kuwait, in honor of these momentous occa- Kuwait Hotel, which has become a real mile- and Mounir Amer, the General Manager of to watch the festivities unfold. Bask in nating. Younger guests have their own sions. The Four Points by Sheraton Kuwait is stone of its landmarks, bringing up his track Four Points by Sheraton Kuwait offer their the celebratory atmosphere as the exclusive space to escape with the adorned with the Kuwaiti flag representing record of achievements and a prime location most heartfelt congratulations and apprecia- parades pass along Arabian Gulf popular Symphony Kids Club, which our high respect for this country and how of successes, Fahed Abushaar expressed the tion to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Street which can be spotted from all offers a 500 sq multipurpose activity thankful we are to have the opportunity to pride in the role that the Sheraton Kuwait Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, His Highness the hotel’s rooms and suites. room, a dedicated cinema, library, din- show our appreciation by engaging in the played, which extended for over 50 years as the Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Enhance your experience with the ing and sleeping areas, all under the festivals on this meaningful occasions. a pioneer and leader in the world of hospi- Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and all the people of contemporary dining in one of the watchful eye of highly-qualified staff. On the occasion of more than five tality for Kuwait and its people. Abushaar Kuwait and its residents. refined restaurants. You can choose to Symphony Style’s commitment to dine at Cucina restaurants were the guaranteeing a unique experience for chefs excel with the dishes they pre- all of its guests includes catering to pare for the breakfast, lunch and din- older children with Teens Hub, a NBK honors ner buffets. If you are more selective dynamic entertainment zone exclu- and favor ala carte menus, Luna sively for teenage boys and girls from Tuscany restaurant on the 18th floor of 10-14 years old. Visitors to the Teens top performers the hotel can be your choice. You can Hub can indulge in the latest video also enjoy your moments by indulging games for Wii and PlayStation and into a unique shopping experience at the Interactive Magic Motion virtual at annual Elite Symphony Mall connected to the hotel. reality experience. awards

uman talent is at the core of National Bank of Kuwait’s long term success. HNBK has a proven track record of developing Kuwait’s youth cadres, providing best-in-class professional development pro- grams, workshops and training. To honor the hard work and dedication of its staff, National Bank of Kuwait recently held its annual Elite Awards ceremony at the newly opened Four Seasons hotel in Kuwait City. NBK’s Elite Awards recognize and reward the bank’s top performers for 2017. NBK Consumer Banking Group staff was West Mishref, the symposium will bring feted to a night of fun and entertainment, PBL symposium together educators of various fields to including awards and prizes for top perform- share expectations, learning techniques ers, a raffle draw, dinner and a special light and experiences that influence and demonstration. Acknowledging the impor- ent development in Kuwait. We devote a at ACK shape the learning process of the next tant role played by staff members. Senior great deal of time, effort and resources to generation of professionals. With members of the bank’s Executive team ensure that our staff is given relevant profes- he Center for Project Based keynote speeches from Prof Alex attended the award ceremony including: sional training opportunities, workshops, and Learning at the Australian College Stojcevski, Dean of the School of Group Chief Executive Officer National educational opportunities with things like the of Kuwait (ACK) is organizing its Software & Electrical Engineering at Bank of Kuwait Isam J Al-Sager, Chief NBK Academy, the High Fliers program and T Swinburne University of Technology in third annual “Project Based Learning Executive Officer- Kuwait Salah Y Al-Fulaij, the ‘NBK Shabab Training Program’,” said (PBL) Symposium” under the theme Melbourne, Australia, and Prof Xiangyun Deputy CEO - Kuwait, Sulaiman Barrak Al- Emad Al-Ablani General Manager - Group “PBL - Motivation and Creativity in the Du, Professor at Aalborg University Marzouq and Emad Al-Ablani General Human Resources, National Bank of Kuwait. Classroom” on Thursday, March 22nd, UNESCO Center for Problem and Manager - Group Human Resources at Employees took home top awards across 2018. Supported by Kuwait Foundation Project Based Learning, Denmark and National Bank of Kuwait. all divisions in Consumer Banking Group such for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS) two internationally recognized experts Chief Executive Officer- Kuwait Salah Y as: Domestic Branches, Direct Sales, Call and set to be held at ACK’s campus in for Project Based Learning will share Al-Fulaij said: We are delighted to honor Center, and Most Collaborative Back-Office their insights. NBK’s elite performers. These men and Units. NBK offers a range of professional women are what make us great. They are the development and training programs as a reg- ones who come to the task at hand with dedi- “Each year NBK’s Consumer Banking ular part of its human resources policy cation, professionalism and excellence. He Group organizes the Elite Awards to reward including courses on banking practices, added “I want to highlight some of our great- our most important asset, our staff,” said, change management, leadership and other est achievements this past year. In 2017, Acting General Manager of Consumer soft and hard skills. NBK also implements an National Bank of Kuwait recorded a solid net Banking Group at National Bank of Kuwait MVP (Most Valuable Player) award initiative profit of KD 322.4 million, a growth of 9.2 Mohammed Al Othman. “It is through their aimed at encouraging employee engagement, percent year-on-year and Consumer Banking professionalism, commitment and continued contribution, loyalty and achievement. NBK Group played a critical role in this achieve- development that NBK continues to provide also strives to develop lasting, long term ment, “Consumer Banking is the foundation its customers with the highest and best-in- employee relationships that reinforce positive for our profits and the driver of our greatest class customer service.” behavior and teamwork, thus reducing opportunities, Al Fulaij concluded. “NBK is known as the bank of human tal- turnover and employee dissatisfaction. Established 1961 25 TV Wednesday, February 21, 2018

17:45 Disaster Date 17:50 Stuck In The Middle 02:50 Botched 14:55 One Man & His Campervan 04:50 Sunny Day 04:20 We Are Many 18:10 Ridiculousness Arabia 18:15 K.C. Undercover 05:30 Celebrity Style Story 15:25 My Dubai 05:13 Nella The Princess Knight 06:10 Newsies: The Broadway 18:35 Lip Sync Battle UK 18:40 Hotel Transylvania: The Series 06:00 Revenge Body With Khloe 15:50 David Rocco’s Dolce Vita 05:35 Shimmer And Shine Musical 19:00 Lip Sync Battle UK 19:05 Bunk’d Kardashian 16:20 David Rocco’s Dolce Vita 05:58 Wallykazam! 08:25 One True Thing 19:25 Impractical Jokers 19:30 Austin & Ally 06:55 E! News Middle East 16:45 John Torode’s Asia 06:21 Zack & Quack 10:35 We Are Many 02:00 Armageddon America 19:50 Real Husbands Of Hollywood 19:55 Descendants Wicked World 07:10 Revenge Body With Khloe 17:15 Confucius Was A Foodie 06:31 The Day Henry Met 12:25 The Last 100 Days Of Diana 03:35 Somnus 20:12 Friends 20:00 Liv And Maddie Kardashian 18:10 Places We Go 06:38 Blaze And The Monster 13:55 The Last King 05:00 The Hunger Games: 20:35 Friends 20:25 Jessie 08:10 E! News: Daily Pop 18:35 Places We Go Machines 15:35 Forsaken Mockingjay Part II 21:00 The Daily Show With Trevor 20:50 Tangled: The Series 09:10 Revenge Body With Khloe 19:05 Charlie Luxton’s Homes By 07:00 Rusty Rivets 17:15 Noble 07:20 Bloodsport Noah 21:15 Disney Mickey Mouse Kardashian The Med 07:13 Paw Patrol 19:05 The Quiet Hour 08:55 I Am Number Four 21:30 The Opposition With Jordan 21:20 K.C. Undercover 10:10 Revenge Body With Khloe 20:00 John Torode’s Malaysian 07:24 Paw Patrol 20:40 Charlotte’s Song 10:50 Kingsglaive: Final Fantasy XV Klepper 21:45 Hotel Transylvania: The Series Kardashian Adventure 07:37 Dora The Explorer 22:20 Martha Marcy May Marlene 12:50 The Hunger Games: 22:00 Teachers 22:10 Bizaardvark 11:05 Revenge Body With Khloe 20:30 One Man & His Campervan 08:00 Nella The Princess Knight Mockingjay Part II 22:25 Tosh.0 22:35 Girl Meets World Kardashian 21:00 My Dubai 08:12 Kid-E-Cats 15:10 Mission: Impossible - Rogue 22:50 Tosh.0 23:00 Star Wars Forces Of Destiny 12:00 E! News Middle East 21:30 David Rocco’s Dolce Vita 08:16 Kid-E-Cats Nation 23:15 Real Husbands Of Hollywood 23:05 Rolling With The Ronks 12:15 Keeping Up With The 22:00 David Rocco’s Dolce Vita 08:21 Bubble Guppies 17:25 Savage Dog 23:40 The Daily Show With Trevor 23:20 Miraculous Tales Of Ladybug Kardashians 22:25 John Torode’s Asia 08:45 Blaze And The Monster 00:10 Simba The King Lion 19:05 Iron Man Noah And Cat Noir 13:10 Keeping Up With The 22:55 Confucius Was A Foodie Machines 02:15 Moomins And The Comet 21:15 Heat 23:45 Lolirock Kardashians 23:50 Places We Go 09:07 Paw Patrol Chase 14:05 Keeping Up With The 09:18 Paw Patrol 03:40 Beyond Beyond Kardashians 09:29 Shimmer And Shine 05:05 Pacific Pirates 15:00 E! News Middle East 09:52 Nella The Princess Knight 06:35 Louis & Luca And The Snow 15:15 E! News: Daily Pop 10:15 The Day Henry Met Machine 16:15 Model Squad 10:21 Paw Patrol 08:00 Felix All Around The World 00:50 Lone Star Law 00:30 Destroyed In Seconds 00:00 PJ Masks 17:10 WAGs Atlanta 00:10 Yukon Gold 10:43 Rusty Rivets 09:30 Mia And The Migoo 01:45 Treehouse Masters 00:55 Destroyed In Seconds 00:30 PJ Masks 19:00 E! News 01:00 Wicked Tuna: North vs South 11:07 Wallykazam! 11:05 Rh+ The Vampire Of Seville 02:40 Cats 101 01:20 Now That’s Funny 01:00 PJ Masks 20:00 Revenge Body With Khloe 02:00 Air Crash Investigation 11:30 Bubble Guppies 12:30 Free Birds 03:35 Dark Days In Monkey City 02:10 Now That’s Funny 01:30 Art Attack Kardashian 03:00 The Witch Doctor‚Ķ 11:53 Team Umizoomi 13:55 Beyond Beyond 04:00 Dark Days In Monkey City 03:00 Out Of Egypt 01:55 Henry Hugglemonster 21:00 Revenge Body With Khloe 04:00 Yukon Gold 12:16 Kid-E-Cats 15:20 Pacific Pirates 04:25 From WAGs To Riches 03:50 Ultimate Survival 02:05 Loopdidoo Kardashian 05:00 Filthy Riches 12:21 Shimmer And Shine 16:50 Freddy Frogface 05:15 My Fat Pet 04:40 Tanked 02:20 Henry Hugglemonster 22:00 Revenge Body With Khloe 06:00 Breakthrough 12:44 Sunny Day 18:20 Rh+ The Vampire Of Seville 06:02 Wildest India 05:30 How It’s Made 02:35 Calimero Kardashian 07:00 Cesar Millan: The Real Story 13:06 Max & Ruby 19:45 The Happy Cricket And The 06:49 Lone Star Law 05:55 How It’s Made 02:50 Henry Hugglemonster 23:00 E! News Middle East 08:00 India’s Mega Kitchens 13:29 Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom Giant Bugs 07:36 Meet The Sloths 06:20 Destroyed In Seconds 03:05 Art Attack 23:15 Keeping Up With The 09:00 Filthy Riches 13:39 Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom 21:15 Emilie Jolie 08:00 Meet The Sloths 06:40 Destroyed In Seconds 03:30 The Hive Kardashians 10:00 Inside 13:50 The Day Henry Met 22:35 Freddy Frogface 08:25 Dark Days In Monkey City 07:00 Ultimate Survival 03:40 Loopdidoo 11:00 Explorer XL 13:56 Blaze And The Monster 08:50 Dark Days In Monkey City 07:50 How It’s Made 03:55 Henry Hugglemonster 12:00 Years Of Living Dangerously Machines 09:15 Treehouse Masters 08:15 How It’s Made 04:10 Art Attack 13:00 Breakthrough 14:18 Blaze And The Monster 10:10 Cats 101 08:40 Destroyed In Seconds 04:35 Loopdidoo 14:00 India’s Mega Kitchens Machines 11:05 Wildest India 09:05 Destroyed In Seconds 04:50 Calimero 15:00 Killing Lincoln 14:41 Paw Patrol 01:30 Natural Born Killers 12:00 Dark Days In Monkey City 09:30 Tanked 05:05 Art Attack 00:10 The Chase 17:00 Dog Whisperer 14:53 Kid-E-Cats 03:45 Mr. Deeds 12:28 Dark Days In Monkey City 10:20 Out Of Egypt 05:30 Henry Hugglemonster 01:00 Emmerdale 18:00 Dog Whisperer 14:57 Kid-E-Cats 05:35 LA Bamba 12:55 From WAGs To Riches 11:10 The Know It All Guide To... 05:45 Henry Hugglemonster 01:30 Coronation Street 19:00 The Story Of Us With Morgan 15:03 Shimmer And Shine 07:35 Max 13:50 My Fat Pet 11:35 Outrageous Acts Of Psych 06:00 Art Attack 02:00 Coronation Street Freeman 15:25 Nella The Princess Knight 09:45 Rocky III 14:45 Cats 101 12:00 Invent It Rich 06:30 Henry Hugglemonster 02:30 Couples Come Dine With Me 20:00 Breakthrough 15:37 Paw Patrol 11:40 Loch Ness 15:40 Wildest India 12:50 How It’s Made 06:45 Loopdidoo 03:25 Endeavour 20:50 Dog Whisperer 16:00 The Day Henry Met 13:35 The Portrait Of A Lady 16:35 Untamed & Uncut 13:15 How It’s Made 07:00 Henry Hugglemonster 05:15 Don’t Tell The Bride 21:40 Dog Whisperer 16:06 Max & Ruby 16:05 Ride Along 2 17:30 Treehouse Masters 13:40 Destroyed In Seconds 07:15 Calimero 06:15 The Chase 22:30 The Story Of Us With Morgan 16:28 Dora The Explorer 18:00 The Break-Up 18:25 Tanked: On Call 14:05 Destroyed In Seconds 07:30 PJ Masks 07:10 Couples Come Dine With Me Freeman 16:51 Sunny Day 20:00 Hell Or High Water 19:20 The Pool Master 14:30 Tanked 08:00 P-King Duckling 08:05 Endeavour 23:20 India’s Mega Kitchens 17:14 Nella The Princess Knight 22:00 Training Day 20:15 Cats 101 15:20 Ultimate Survival 08:25 Jungle Junction 09:55 Don’t Tell The Bride 17:36 Shimmer And Shine 21:10 Dark Days In Monkey City 16:10 Out Of Egypt 08:40 Special Agent Oso 11:00 The Chase 17:59 Wallykazam! 21:38 Dark Days In Monkey City 17:00 The Know It All Guide To... 09:00 Handy Manny 11:50 Couples Come Dine With Me 18:21 Zack & Quack 22:05 Tanked: On Call 17:25 Outrageous Acts Of Psych 09:15 PJ Masks 12:45 Emmerdale 18:32 The Day Henry Met 23:00 The Pool Master 17:50 Invent It Rich 09:30 Puppy Dog Pals 13:15 Coronation Street 18:38 Blaze And The Monster 23:55 Bahama Blue 18:40 Destroyed In Seconds 10:00 Mickey And The Roadster 13:45 Coronation Street Machines 00:40 Mythbusters 19:05 Destroyed In Seconds Racers 14:15 The Chase 19:00 Rusty Rivets 01:30 How Do They Do It? 19:30 How It’s Made 10:25 Mickey Mouse Clubhouse 15:10 Couples Come Dine With Me 00:20 Cat Fight 19:13 Paw Patrol 01:55 Food Factory 19:55 How It’s Made 10:55 Sheriff Callie’s Wild West 16:00 Diana And The Paparazzi 01:10 Monster Fish 19:25 Paw Patrol 02:20 X-Ray Mega Airport 20:20 Tanked 11:20 Sheriff Callie’s Wild West 16:55 Broadchurch 02:00 Grizzly Cauldron 19:37 Dora The Explorer 03:10 Uncovering Aliens 21:10 The Know It All Guide To... 11:50 The Lion Guard 17:50 Don’t Tell The Bride 02:50 Monster Fish 20:00 Nella The Princess Knight 04:00 Superhuman Showdown 00:25 Stella 21:35 Outrageous Acts Of Psych 12:15 The Lion Guard 18:50 Emmerdale 03:45 Python Hunters 20:12 Kid-E-Cats 04:48 Mythbusters 01:15 The Coroner 22:00 Invent It Rich 12:45 Sofia The First 19:15 Coronation Street 04:40 Maneater Manhunt 20:16 Kid-E-Cats 05:36 How Do They Do It? 02:00 The Moonstone 22:50 Out Of Egypt 13:10 Sofia The First 19:45 Coronation Street 05:35 Grizzly Cauldron 20:22 Bubble Guppies 06:00 Food Factory 02:50 Silent Witness 23:40 Ultimate Survival 13:35 PJ Masks 20:10 Couples Come Dine With Me 06:30 Monster Fish 20:45 Blaze And The Monster 06:24 X-Ray Mega Airport 03:45 Stella 14:00 PJ Masks 21:00 Diana And The Paparazzi 07:25 Python Hunters Machines 07:12 Uncovering Aliens 04:30 Doctors 14:30 Doc McStuffins 21:55 Broadchurch 08:20 Maneater Manhunt 21:07 Paw Patrol 08:00 How Do They Do It? 05:05 Holby City 14:55 P-King Duckling 22:50 Emmerdale 09:15 Africa’s Deadliest (2018) 21:19 Paw Patrol 08:26 Superhuman Showdown 06:00 Holby City 15:20 Vampirina 23:15 Coronation Street 10:10 Wild Love 21:30 Shimmer And Shine 09:14 Mythbusters 06:55 The Moonstone 15:45 Sofia The First 23:40 Coronation Street 11:05 Ultimate Animal Countdown 21:53 Nella The Princess Knight 10:02 Uncovering Aliens 07:45 Stella 16:10 Puppy Dog Pals 12:00 Secrets Of The Giant Manta 22:15 The Day Henry Met 10:50 How Do They Do It? 08:35 Doctors 00:50 Kiss Of Death 16:40 Mickey And The Roadster Ray 22:21 Paw Patrol 11:14 Food Factory 09:05 Holby City 01:45 How (Not) To Kill Your Racers 12:55 Cheetah: Fatal Instinct 22:43 Rusty Rivets 11:38 X-Ray Mega Airport 10:00 Holby City Husband 17:10 PJ Masks 13:50 Monster Fish 23:07 Wallykazam! 12:26 Superhuman Showdown 11:00 The Coroner 02:40 Marked For Murder: People 17:35 Miles From Tomorrow 14:45 Snakes In The City 23:30 Bubble Guppies 13:14 Mythbusters 11:50 The Moonstone Magazine Investigates 18:00 The Lion Guard 15:40 World’s Deadliest Animal 23:53 Team Umizoomi 14:02 How Do They Do It? 12:40 Stella 03:35 Murder Online 18:30 Puppy Dog Pals 00:00 How 2 Win Apocalypse 14:26 Food Factory 13:30 Holby City 04:30 Kiss Of Death 19:00 Sofia The First 01:00 America’s Book Of Secrets 16:35 Africa’s Deadliest (2018) 14:50 Uncovering Aliens 14:25 Holby City 05:25 Momsters: When Moms Go 19:30 Mickey And The Roadster 02:00 In Search Of Aliens 17:30 Maneater Manhunt 15:38 Superhuman Showdown 15:20 The Coroner Bad Racers 03:00 America’s Book Of Secrets 18:25 Ultimate Predators GPU 16:26 X-Ray Mega Airport 16:10 The Moonstone 05:50 Momsters: When Moms Go 20:00 The Lion Guard 03:50 Ancient Aliens 19:20 Snakes In The City 00:15 The Drew Carey Show 17:14 Mythbusters 17:10 Stella Bad 20:30 P-King Duckling 04:40 Breaking Mysterious 20:10 World’s Deadliest Animal 00:40 The Drew Carey Show 18:02 Uncovering Aliens 18:00 Doctors 06:20 I Almost Got Away With It 21:00 Vampirina 05:30 How 2 Win Apocalypse 01:05 The Middle 18:50 Superhuman Showdown 18:30 Eastenders 07:10 Evil Online 21:30 PJ Masks 06:20 America’s Book Of Secrets 21:00 Africa’s Deadliest (2018) 01:30 The Middle 19:40 Mythbusters 19:00 The Coroner 08:00 Who On Earth Did I Marry? 22:00 PJ Masks 07:10 The Universe 21:50 Maneater Manhunt 01:55 Gary Unmarried 20:30 Secrets Of The Underground 20:00 Stella 08:25 True Crime With Aphrodite 22:30 Sofia The First 08:00 Cities Of The Underworld 22:40 Ultimate Predators GPU 02:20 Malcolm In The Middle 21:20 How Do They Do It? 20:45 The Durrells Jones 23:00 P-King Duckling 09:00 America’s Book Of Secrets 23:30 Secrets Of The Giant Manta 02:45 Making History 21:45 Food Factory 21:35 The Coroner 09:15 Momsters: When Moms Go 23:30 Puppy Dog Pals 10:00 Ancient Aliens Ray 03:10 Late Night With Seth Meyers 22:10 Uncovering Aliens 22:25 Doctors Bad 11:00 Breaking Mysterious 04:00 The Tonight Show Starring 23:00 Secrets Of The Underground 22:55 Eastenders 09:40 Momsters: When Moms Go 12:00 How 2 Win Jimmy Fallon 23:50 Superhuman Showdown 23:25 Stella Bad 13:00 Cities Of The Underworld 04:50 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 10:10 Evil Online 14:00 In Search Of Aliens 05:40 Malcolm In The Middle 11:05 Suspicion 15:00 America’s Book Of Secrets 06:05 Gary Unmarried 12:00 Fatal Encounters 00:15 Yukon Men 16:00 Ancient Aliens 00:12 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 06:30 Making History 12:55 True Crime With Aphrodite 01:05 Diesel Brothers 17:00 Breaking Mysterious 00:36 Rabbids Invasion 06:55 Baby Daddy Jones 01:50 Gear Dogs 18:00 The Universe 01:00 Rabbids Invasion 07:20 Late Night With Seth Meyers 00:25 Hero 13:50 I Almost Got Away With It 02:35 Jesse James Outlaw Garage 19:00 Cities Of The Underworld 01:24 Sanjay And Craig 08:10 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 02:45 Mantra 00:00 The Menendez Murders: Erik 14:45 Evil Online 03:20 Street Outlaws 20:00 In Search Of Aliens 01:48 Sanjay And Craig 09:00 The Tonight Show Starring 03:00 Mantra Tells All 15:40 Suspicion 04:05 Alaska: Battle On The Bay 21:00 America’s Book Of Secrets 02:12 Winx Club Jimmy Fallon 04:25 The Front ROW 01:00 Evil Up Close 16:35 The Perfect Murder 04:50 Dirty Jobs 22:00 Ancient Aliens 02:36 Winx Club 09:50 Speechless 05:00 Ishwar Sakshi 02:00 Evil Up Close 17:30 True Crime With Aphrodite 05:35 How Do They Do It? 23:00 Modern Marvels 03:00 Harvey Beaks 10:15 The Carmichael Show 06:45 Maruti Mera Dosst 03:00 The First 48 Jones 06:00 Backroad Bounty 03:24 Harvey Beaks 10:40 Malcolm In The Middle 09:10 Ghar Dwaar 04:00 The Menendez Murders: Erik 18:25 Momsters: When Moms Go 07:35 Alaska: Battle On The Bay 03:48 The Loud House 11:05 Gary Unmarried 11:55 The Legend Of Bhagat Singh Tells All Bad 08:20 Backroad Bounty 04:12 The Loud House 11:30 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 14:40 Kahin Pyaar Na Ho Jaaye 05:00 Evil Up Close 18:50 Momsters: When Moms Go 09:10 Dirty Jobs 04:36 Breadwinners 12:20 Making History 17:35 Housefull 3 06:00 Evil Up Close Bad 09:55 Diesel Brothers 05:00 Breadwinners 12:45 Baby Daddy 20:00 Dabangg 2 07:00 It Takes A Killer 19:20 I Almost Got Away With It 10:45 Gear Dogs 05:24 Get Blake 13:10 The Drew Carey Show 22:05 Baadshaho 07:30 It Takes A Killer 20:15 Evil Online 11:30 Jesse James Outlaw Garage 00:20 Swamp People 05:48 SpongeBob SquarePants 13:35 The Drew Carey Show 08:00 The First 48 21:10 Dead On Arrival 12:20 Backroad Bounty 01:10 Swamp People 06:12 SpongeBob SquarePants 14:00 The Middle 09:00 Escaping Polygamy: After The 22:05 Married With Secrets 13:55 Dirty Jobs 02:00 American Pickers 06:36 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 14:25 The Middle Escape 23:00 Kiss Of Death 14:40 Yukon Men 02:50 Britain’s Bloody Crown: War 07:00 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 14:50 Malcolm In The Middle 10:00 Leah Remini: Scientology And 23:55 Love Kills 15:30 Diesel Brothers Of The Roses 07:24 Rabbids Invasion 15:15 Speechless The Aftermath 16:15 Gear Dogs 03:40 Ronnie O’Sullivan’s American 07:48 Get Blake 15:40 The Carmichael Show 01:15 Crossing Over 11:00 Robbie Coltrane’s Critical 17:05 Jesse James Outlaw Garage Hustle 08:12 Harvey Beaks 16:05 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 03:00 What Women Want Evidence 17:50 Alaska: Battle On The Bay 04:30 Swamp People 08:36 Sanjay And Craig 17:00 Powerless 05:00 The Battle Of Shaker Heights 12:00 Nightmare In Suburbia 18:40 Dirty Jobs 05:15 Swamp People 09:00 SpongeBob SquarePants 17:30 Baby Daddy 06:15 Code 46 13:00 The First 48 19:25 Yukon Men 06:00 Mountain Men 09:24 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 18:00 The Drew Carey Show 07:45 The Hundred-Foot Journey 14:00 Crimes That Shook Britain 20:15 Street Outlaws 06:50 Forged In Fire 09:48 Henry Danger 18:30 The Drew Carey Show 09:45 Adventureland 15:00 Robbie Coltrane’s Critical 00:10 Sabrina Secrets Of A Teenage 21:00 Heavy Rescue 07:40 American Restoration 10:12 Game Shakers 19:00 The Middle 11:30 Heartbreakers Evidence Witch 21:50 Railroad Australia 08:30 Detroit Steel 10:36 Regal Academy 19:30 The Middle 13:30 The Wedding Planner 16:00 Nightmare In Suburbia 00:35 Binny And The Ghost 22:40 Outback Truckers 09:20 American Pickers 11:00 Winx Club 20:00 Modern Family 15:15 Crossing Over 17:00 Homicide Hunter 01:00 Hank Zipzer 23:30 Alaska: Battle On The Bay 10:10 Ax Men 11:24 SpongeBob SquarePants 20:30 Will And Grace 2017 17:00 Venom 18:00 Crimes That Shook Britain 01:25 Alex & Co. 11:00 Forged In Fire 11:48 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 21:00 The Tonight Show Starring 18:30 Side Effects 19:00 It Takes A Killer 01:45 Disney Mickey Mouse 11:50 American Restoration 12:12 The Loud House Jimmy Fallon 20:00 Touchy Feely 19:30 It Takes A Killer 01:50 Evermoor Chronicles 12:40 Detroit Steel 12:36 Rabbids Invasion 22:00 Future Man 21:30 A Walk To Remember 20:00 Britain’s Biggest Heists 02:15 Sabrina Secrets Of A Teenage 13:30 Duck Dynasty 13:00 Breadwinners 22:35 Future Man 23:15 Shall We Dance ? 23:00 Escaping Evil: My Life In A Witch 13:55 Duck Dynasty 13:24 Massive Monster Mayhem 23:05 The Detour Cult 02:40 Sabrina Secrets Of A Teenage 06:00 Marvel’s Spider-Man 14:20 American Pickers 13:48 Hunter Street 23:30 Late Night With Seth Meyers Witch 06:25 Milo Murphy’s Law 15:10 Mountain Men 14:12 I Am Frankie 03:05 Binny And The Ghost 06:50 Right Now Kapow 16:00 Forged In Fire 14:36 The Thundermans 03:30 Binny And The Ghost 07:15 Mech-X4 16:50 Counting Cars 15:00 Rabbids Invasion 03:55 Hank Zipzer 07:40 Disney Mickey Mouse 17:15 Car Hunters 15:24 School Of Rock 00:00 Fashion Star 00:05 Nightcap 04:15 Disney Mickey Mouse 07:45 Walk The Prank 17:40 Detroit Steel 15:48 SpongeBob SquarePants 02:00 Making Mr. Right 00:30 Broad City 04:20 Hank Zipzer 08:35 Right Now Kapow 18:30 Mountain Men 16:12 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 00:25 The Dog Lover 03:00 House Of DVF 00:55 Broad City 04:45 Alex & Co. 09:25 Mighty Med 19:20 Forged In Fire 16:36 The Loud House 02:10 Santa Claws 04:00 Three 01:20 Chris Ramsey Stand Up 05:10 Alex & Co. 10:20 Star Wars: The Freemaker 20:10 American Pickers 17:00 Massive Monster Mayhem 03:40 The Little Rascals 05:00 Mom vs. Matchmaker Central 05:35 Sabrina Secrets Of A Teenage Adventures 21:00 Counting Cars 17:24 I Am Frankie 05:05 Christmas Trade 06:00 Fashion Star 01:45 Tosh.0 Witch 11:10 Gamer’s Guide To Pretty 21:25 Car Hunters 17:48 Hunter Street 06:50 The Dog Lover 08:00 Making Mr. Right 02:10 The Opposition With Jordan 06:00 Sabrina Secrets Of A Teenage Much Everything 21:50 Fifth Gear 18:12 Henry Danger 08:35 Santa Claws 09:00 House Of DVF Klepper Witch 12:00 Kid vs. Kat 22:40 Forged In Fire 18:36 Rabbids Invasion 10:05 The Secret Life Of Pets 10:00 Three 02:35 Real Husbands Of Hollywood 06:25 Binny And The Ghost 12:25 Two More Eggs 23:30 Mountain Men 19:00 School Of Rock 11:35 The Little Rascals 11:00 Mom vs. Matchmaker 03:00 The Daily Show With Trevor 06:45 Disney Mickey Mouse 12:30 Kid vs. Kat 19:24 Game Shakers 13:00 Chilly Christmas 12:00 Fashion Star Noah 06:50 Rolling With The Ronks 12:55 Kirby Buckets 19:48 The Thundermans 14:30 Pet Pals In Windland 14:00 Making Mr. Right 03:25 Tosh.0 07:00 Jessie 13:45 Supa Strikas 20:12 Regal Academy 15:55 The Angry Birds Movie 15:00 House Of DVF 03:50 The Opposition With Jordan 07:25 Tangled: The Series 14:10 Disney Mickey Mouse 20:36 SpongeBob SquarePants 17:35 The Borrowers 16:00 Three Klepper 07:50 Tsum Tsum Shorts 14:15 Supa Strikas 21:00 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 19:05 Shelby: The Dog Who Saved 17:00 Mom vs. Matchmaker 04:15 Kroll Show 07:55 Hotel Transylvania: The Series 14:40 Right Now Kapow 00:15 Places We Go 21:24 Sanjay And Craig Christmas 18:00 Cedar Cove 04:40 Key And Peele 08:20 Elena Of Avalor 15:30 Milo Murphy’s Law 00:45 Andy And Ben Eat Australia 21:48 Rabbids Invasion 20:40 Chilly Christmas 20:00 Making Mr. Right 05:05 Brotherhood 08:45 Bunk’d 15:55 Two More Eggs 01:10 Lee Chan’s World Food Tour 22:12 Breadwinners 22:10 Pet Pals In Windland 21:00 House Of DVF 05:30 Impractical Jokers 09:10 Stuck In The Middle 16:00 The Suite Life Of Zack & 01:40 Places We Go 22:36 Harvey Beaks 23:35 The Borrowers 22:00 Three 05:55 Disaster Date 09:35 Miraculous Tales Of Ladybug Cody 02:05 Places We Go 23:00 SpongeBob SquarePants 23:00 Mom vs. Matchmaker 06:20 Ridiculousness Arabia And Cat Noir 16:25 Lab Rats Elite Force 02:35 Charlie Luxton’s Homes By 23:24 SpongeBob SquarePants 23:30 Mom vs. Matchmaker 06:50 Punk’d (Bet) 10:00 Miraculous Tales Of Ladybug 17:15 Mech-X4 The Med 23:48 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 07:15 Punk’d (Bet) And Cat Noir 17:40 Marvel’s Spider-Man 03:30 Testing The Menu 07:40 The Jim Gaffigan Show 10:25 Lolirock 18:05 Supa Strikas 03:55 One Man & His Campervan 08:05 Impractical Jokers 10:50 Lolirock 18:30 Marvel’s Ant-Man 04:25 My Dubai 01:15 K-9 08:30 Disaster Date 11:15 Sabrina Secrets Of A Teenage 18:35 Walk The Prank 04:50 David Rocco’s Dolce Vita 03:05 There’s Always Woodstock 08:55 Workaholics Witch 19:00 Gravity Falls 05:20 David Rocco’s Dolce Vita 04:45 SuperBob 00:20 Extraordinary Pregnancies 09:20 Kroll Show 11:40 Sabrina Secrets Of A Teenage 19:25 Milo Murphy’s Law 05:45 John Torode’s Asia 00:16 Kid-E-Cats 06:10 Impromptu 01:05 My Extreme Excess Skin 09:45 Key And Peele Witch 19:50 Marvel’s Rocket And Groot 06:15 Miguel’s Feasts 00:21 Shimmer And Shine 08:00 Yoga Hosers 01:50 Outrageous 911 10:10 Brotherhood 12:05 Hank Zipzer 19:55 Mech-X4 06:40 Eat Street 00:44 Sunny Day 09:40 Tyler Perry’s Boo: A Madea 02:35 The Spouse House 10:35 The Jim Gaffigan Show 12:30 Alex & Co. 20:20 Penn Zero: Part Time Hero 07:10 Places We Go 01:06 Max & Ruby Halloween 03:20 Sister Wives 11:00 Impractical Jokers 12:55 Alex & Co. 20:45 Gamer’s Guide To Pretty 07:35 Places We Go 01:29 Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom 11:35 SuperBob 04:05 Toddlers & Tiaras: Coach 11:25 Disaster Date 13:20 Lolirock Much Everything 08:05 Charlie Luxton’s Homes By 01:40 Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom 13:05 Yoga Hosers Wars 11:50 Ridiculousness Arabia 13:45 Lolirock 21:10 Kid vs. Kat The Med 01:50 The Day Henry Met 14:40 Hearts Of Spring 04:50 Outdaughtered: Busby Quints 12:15 Impractical Jokers 14:10 Miraculous Tales Of Ladybug 21:35 Marvel’s Rocket And Groot 09:00 Testing The Menu 01:56 Blaze And The Monster 16:20 Double Take 05:35 Say Yes To The Dress 12:40 The Dude Perfect Show And Cat Noir 21:40 Disney Mickey Mouse 09:25 One Man & His Campervan Machines 18:05 Leap Of Faith 06:00 Say Yes To The Dress UK 13:05 The Dude Perfect Show 14:35 Miraculous Tales Of Ladybug 21:45 Lab Rats 09:55 My Dubai 02:18 Blaze And The Monster 20:00 The Longest Yard 06:45 Oprah: Where Are They 13:30 Brotherhood And Cat Noir 22:35 Phineas And Ferb 10:20 David Rocco’s Dolce Vita Machines 22:00 Jackass 3.5 Now? 13:55 Friends 15:00 The Zhuzhus 23:00 Programmes Start At 6:00am 10:50 David Rocco’s Dolce Vita 02:40 Paw Patrol 23:30 Scorned 08:15 Sister Wives 14:20 Friends 15:15 Jessie 11:15 John Torode’s Asia 02:52 Kid-E-Cats 09:00 Cake Boss 14:45 Workaholics 15:40 Bunk’d 11:45 Miguel’s Feasts 02:57 Kid-E-Cats 09:25 Toddlers & Tiaras: Coach 15:10 Key And Peele 16:05 Tangled: Short Cuts 12:10 Eat Street 03:03 Shimmer And Shine Wars 15:35 Kroll Show 16:10 Elena Of Avalor 12:40 Places We Go 03:25 Nella The Princess Knight 10:10 Say Yes To The Dress UK 16:00 Comedy Central Presents 16:35 Bizaardvark 13:05 Places We Go 03:36 Paw Patrol 10:55 Outdaughtered: Busby Quints Comedy 3alwagef 17:00 Tangled: The Series 00:10 WAGs Atlanta 13:35 Charlie Luxton’s Homes By 03:59 The Day Henry Met 00:30 Slack Bay 11:40 Kate Plus 8 16:30 Ridiculousness Arabia 17:25 Miraculous Tales Of Ladybug 01:00 WAGs Atlanta The Med 04:05 Max & Ruby 02:35 The Inevitable Defeat Of 12:25 Cake Boss 16:55 Friends And Cat Noir 01:50 Botched 14:30 John Torode’s Malaysian 04:28 Dora The Explorer Mister & Pete 13:10 Say Yes To The Dress 17:20 Friends Adventure 26 Established 1961 Stars Wednesday, February 21, 2018

CROSSWORD 1841 STAR TRACK

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

Aries, if choices can be put off, you should and wait until a better time Libra, you shine brightly in business as some of the research and produc- opens for making decisions. You receive an invitation to join someone after work; tion you have created is a large success. The time to enjoy the results of your hard work think about this one very carefully. Everywhere you look you seem to encounter has arrived and you should take pride and joy in every moment. Your career is at the blockages or cut-offs. You aren’t comfortable in your own skin and there seems to be top and brings great satisfaction to you personally. There could be someone near who s no escaping it; let meditation take you to a more peaceful place. Music is an impor- a bit envious, but this is temporary as the person loves and cares for you. Teamwork is tant part of your life, especially now when you need it so much. You detest need and appealing when you accept a project that takes lots of effort and skill. Someone chal- as a result you work very hard to accumulate financial wealth and real estate. You lenges you in a good-natured way but there could be a seed of truth here; a new way to may find yourself in a library or book store in search of good fiction. You could have a do something could be discovered. Your drive and determination take you a long way problem keeping your cool this evening when confronted with the truth, Aries. toward completion of paying off a loan or reaching salary or savings goals, Libra.

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

Taurus, it s best that you keep your thoughts and suggestions to yourself Scorpio, you could be down and upset about something you regret; regrets as you could experience problems getting others to understand. Working with groups is are the very best way to learn. Hold off on making choices or decisions where your per- not advisable today but could open up for you tomorrow. Make a point to get your sonal life is concerned. Maintaining your focus upon home or office improvements helps affairs in order during this phase; the energy of getting business taken care of is strong- lift your spirits and you feel productive. You receive an invitation to a uniquely themed ly present. You make a decision regarding a serious situation. Peace of mind is bestowed party; someone you like is a huge help with your costume. A community issue needs your when you come to a correct conclusion; living life in a new way is empowering. Your help in cutting through the red tape and getting directly to the problem; something relat- way of thinking is required for finishing a certain project. Even though you feel like ed to natural beauty is indicated here. You’re able to sneak away early today for a secret being alone, joining in the fun should be a mood lifter; go in and try! Now is the time for meeting about a surprise party for a loved one. Thoughts clear as you wind down with a material acquisitions . . . Prosperity is coming to you through hard work, Taurus. great meal and movie with someone you love and enjoy, Scorpio.

Gemini (May 21-June 20) Sagittarius (November 22-December 21)

Gemini, depression seems to be a thing of the past; you re surrounded by Sagittarius, surprising progress at work encourages you to aim higher; a peaceful, positive vibrations even when perhaps you don t want to be. period of gains and abundance is prominent. You may be doing more on Relax and let these good times just be and don t worry about tomorrow. Your path is set your own to reach your personal and professional goals. Don t forget your friends on the ACROSS tion of city states) at eastern end of and the way you live and learn is pretty much established; this is a time of feeling secure way to success; you re loved more than you know. Home and work demand your atten- 1. Being six more than fifty. the Mediterranean. and cared for. Music is important as you work and discover ways to increase your tion more now than ever before; a period of rapid change has arrived and brings an ener- 4. Any plant of the genus Caragana having 80. How long something has existed. income and acquiring some important items. You feel certain you have enough in place gy of movement that could take you to places you hadn’t planned on. Love and affection even-pinnate leaves and mostly yellow regarding planning for your future needs. Your ability to make things happen and see keep you grounded and feeling secure with your life and those sharing it. Spending time flowers followed by seeds in a linear DOWN them through is strong. Things seem to magically fall into place as you start a new with a new friend helps you understand something confusing; new connections and direc- pod. 1. Weight to be borne or conveyed. adventure. Happy times ahead with those who just happen to think like you do, Gemini. tions take you in interesting directions that help you grow, Sagittarius. 12. (British) A waterproof raincoat made of 2. (Norse mythology) One of the Aesir and rubberized fabric. avenger of Balder. 15. An association of countries in the west- 3. (Old Testament) The second patriarch. ern hemisphere. 4. A valuable timber tree of tropical South Cancer (June 21-July 22) Capricorn (December 22-January 19) 16. Germanic barbarian leader who ended America. Capricorn, you re sensitive to the feelings of those you spend time with the western Roman Empire in 476 and 5. (Old Testament) In Judeo-Christian Cancer, awareness of possessions and what these are worth is top of mind for you now. You have entered a phase of material gains, investments and today; a friend needs your strong energy. The group looks to you for lead- became the first barbarian ruler of mythology. ership when a new situation arises. You could experience a confrontation from someone Italy (434-493). 6. Decay usually accompanied by an earnings; things unseen are also affected by this energy. A sense of being in a good, secure place is the hallmark of this period of time; sometimes life just seems to flow more who regularly disagrees with you and your methods. Any blockages you experience 17. Gone by. offensive odor. today are of very short duration. As you speak, several people cut you off and make it 18. A flat wing-shaped process or winglike 7. A genus of Indriidae. smoothly and feels easier to navigate, here s one of those times. There could be dancing with someone you share strong, sexy chemistry. Your focus is one of productive activity; impossible for you to finish; these people don t mean to do this, they re just thoughtless part of an organism. 8. A mountain peak in the Andes in and rude. Fight the pessimism you feel creeping up; you know you can fight it and win! A 19. (chemistry) A substance that initiates or Argentina (21,654 feet high). this includes progress made on any level of your life such as material, mental or emotion- al expansion. Memories linger around your childhood experiences with those you grew sense of balance and peace characterizes your day; you smile as you feel grateful for accelerates a chemical reaction with- 9. Any group or radical of the form RCO- your blessings. An opportunity to assist with a surprise comes tonight, Capricorn. out itself being affected. where R is an organic group. up with; an intense sense of sadness could accompany this tender time, Cancer. 20. The longer of the two telegraphic sig- 10. A battle in 1645 that settled the out- nals used in Morse code. come of the first English Civil War as 21. Microscopic unicellular marine or the Parliamentarians won a major vic- Leo (July 23-August 22) Aquarius (January 20- February 18) freshwater colonial alga having cell tory over the Royalists. walls impregnated with silica. 11. The products of human creativity. Leo, someone dislikes what you have to say regarding their personal Aquarius, working smarter not harder is strongly indicated. Your goal is 23. Exhibiting or restored to vigorous 12. A woman of refinement. choices. You re considered to be negative and old-school; stand your ground but with to expedite and simplify. Traditional ways seem complicated when the team looks at good health. 13. Small terrestrial lizard of warm regions an open mind. Strong emotional energy is available but manageable if you concentrate; new ways to reach goals. Insisting on change could disrupt the old guard; this could 25. A compartment in front of a motor of the Old World. you figure out the best way in the end. The foundation of your life is secure and com- cause serious disagreements. Your one of a kind way is encouraged by open minded vehicle where driver sits. 14. United States songwriter and play- fortable in the form of home and hearth, domestic bliss this is the prize jewel in your inti- people. Your patient observance unravels a problematic situation. Normalcy and secu- 27. An employee who mixes and serves wright famous for his patriotic songs mate, personal life. You stumble upon a happy musical surprise in an unexpected place. rity provide comfort and encouragement regarding your home life. A discussion with a alcoholic drinks at a bar. (1878-1942). You acquire belongings such as furnishings, appliances, clothing and perhaps even a colleague or friend uncovers facts that make sense; your logic kicks in. You feel badly 29. A public promotion of some product or 22. Wasting of the body during a chronic vehicle. Abundance is available in many areas of your life now; remember where you for someone who has fallen on hard times. The stars are aligned to create an energy of service. disease. came from and be generous with those who have much less than you, generous Leo. being ready and contemplating! Rest well and have sweet dreams, Aquarius. 31. A man who is a stupid fool. 24. A village of huts for native Africans in 34. Winner of a Nobel Prize. southern Africa. 36. The vertical triangular wall between the 26. A minor Hebrew prophet (8th century Virgo (August 23-September 22) sloping ends of gable roof. BC). Pisces (February 19-March 20) 40. A dehydrogenated analogue of cortisol 28. (medicine) Chilly. Pisces, friends ask for your assistance in a major project that could require (trade names Orasone or Deltasone or 30. A constellation in the southern hemi- Virgo, words are your friends as your mind is quick and alert; if you are an attorney you have a better than average day in court! You relay your opinions from weeks to complete. The realm of dreams and cosmic laws will continue to Liquid Pred or Meticorten). sphere near Reticulum and Pictor. be an interest you can’t resist; there are reasons for every occurrence, no matter how baf- 41. A shoe without a tongue and with dec- 32. A bluish-white lustrous metallic ele- your specific view point in an understandable manner. The vibrations indicate that you should stay away from shopping or making choices involving colors or designs; this is fling. Put your designs on paper before you forget them; you’ll have clear visions of some- orative lacing up the instep. ment. thing that could help many. You re determined to add a splash to your decor; you look in 42. A metric unit of volume or capacity 33. Hormone produced early in pregnancy temporary, be patient. You enjoy a sense of being cared for and secure on an intimate level. Material gains are strongly present and you feel thankful to be free from want. very different places and find just the thing! You may have the urge to examine your equal to 10 liters. by the placenta. thoughts and motives; trust your heart and intuition, you are loved. You truly enjoy seeing 43. A strip of land projecting into a body of 35. (Norse mythology) God of light and You no longer choose to use old methods you feel could be improved upon; if some- one complains ignore them. Someone could try to put pressure on you to do some- a former coworker or perhaps this indicates a former student. No matter, you re held in water. peace and noted for his beauty and high esteem and affection by most people you have worked with in any way, Pisces. 46. The rate at which red blood cells settle sweet nature. thing you really don t want to do; remember saying no is always an option, Virgo. out in a tube of blood under standard- 37. A short high tone produced as a signal ized conditions. or warning. 47. Large antelope with lightly spiraled 38. A fabric woven with lisle thread. Wordsearch Puzzle Yesterday’s Solution horns of desert regions of North 39. Suggestive of the supernatural. Africa. 44. (British) A disparaging term for an 50. A girl or young woman who is unmar- appointee. ried. 45. (Akkadian) God of wisdom. 54. Former name for the order Crocodylia. 48. An officer who acts as military assistant 57. Being ten more than one hundred to a more senior officer. ninety. 49. Being one more than ninety. 58. A fencing sword similar to a foil but 51. Relating to or caused by or afflicted with a heavier blade. with sciatica. 59. English theoretical physicist who 52. Someone who works (or provides applied relativity theory to quantum workers) during a strike. mechanics and predicted the exis- 53. The event of dying or departure from tence of antimatter and the positron life. (1902-1984). 55. A colorless and odorless inert gas. 60. The United Nations agency concerned 56. Flightless New Zealand birds similar to with atomic energy. gallinules. 61. A very young child (birth to 1 year) who 62. In bed. has not yet begun to walk or talk. 63. A small cake leavened with yeast. 64. Cubes of meat marinated and cooked 65. An island in Indonesia east of Java. on a skewer usually with vegetables. 67. A sensation (as of a cold breeze or 66. A long thin piece of cloth or paper as bright light) that precedes the onset of used for binding or fastening. certain disorders such as a migraine 70. A loose sleeveless outer garment made attack or epileptic seizure. from aba cloth. 68. Capital and largest city of the Czech 74. (informal) `johnny' was applied as a Republic. nickname for Confederate soldiers by 69. Freedom from difficulty or hardship or the Federal soldiers in the American effort. Civil War. 71. The extreme end of something. 75. Breathing in. 72. Antibacterial drug (trade name 77. The network in the reticular formation Nydrazid) used to treat tuberculosis. that serves an alerting or arousal func- 73. Title for a civil or military leader (espe- tion. cially in Turkey). 78. An agency of the United Nations affili- 76. A hard malleable ductile silvery metal- ated with the World Bank. lic element that is resistant to corro- 79. An ancient maritime country (a collec- sion.

Yesterday’s Solution

Daily SuDoku Yesterday’s Solution Classifieds Wednesday, February 21, 2018

DAAYY: 7XHVGDD\\  99DDOLG )URP  $0 7R  30

Expected WWeeather for the Next 24 Hours

%< '$$<< ::DDUUPPZLWK  OLJKW  WR PRGHUDWH  QRUWWKK ZHVWHUO\  ZLQG  WR OLJKW  YDULDEOH ZZLQG  ZLWWKK VSHHG  RI   NNP PK  DQG VRPH VFDWWHUHG FORXGV ZLOO DSSHDU

%< 1,*+7 3DUUWWO\ FORXG\  ZLWK  OLJKW  YDULDEOH  ZLQG  ZLWK  VSHHG  RI    NPKK 

:($$77+(5::$$51,1* 1R &XUUHQW ::DDUQLQJV

STTAAATTION 0$;(;33 0,1 5(& 6)& &+$57  87& .8::$$,7 &,7<  ƒ&  ƒ& .8::$$,7 $,5325577  ƒ&  ƒ& $%'$//<<  ƒ&  ƒ& %8%<<$$$11  ƒ& ƒ& -$+55$$  ƒ&  ƒ& ))$$,/$.$ ,6/$$11'  ƒ&  ƒ& 6$/0,<<$$+  ƒ&  ƒ& $+0$',  ƒ&  ƒ& 18::$$,6,%  ƒ&  ƒ& ::$$)5$  ƒ&  ƒ& CHANGE OF NAME 6$/0<  ƒ&  ƒ& I, Chundu Reddaiahnaidu 4 DAAYYS FORECAST holder of Indian Passport Temperatures NO. G8267663 resided at DAAYY DAATTE WEAATTHER Wind Speed MAX. MIN. Wind Direction Sunduvaripally (VI) ::HHGQHVGD\  ::DDDUUP DQG 3DDUUWO\  FORXG\  ƒ&  ƒ&95%6(      NPK Mittamidapalli, Rajampet, Kadapa, AP. Now I want to 7KXXUUVGD\  3DUUWWO\FORXGG\\ WR FORXG\ZLWK DFKDQFH IIRRU  ƒ& ƒ& 95%6(      NPK VFDWWHUHGUDLQ ZLWK  D FKDQFH IIRRU IIRRJ IIRRUPLQJ DW change my name Chundu )ULGD\  3DDUUWO\ FORXG\  ƒ&  ƒ& 6(95%      NPK Reddaiahnaidu to Chundu 3DUUWWO\FORXG\WRFORXGG\\ ZLWWKK DFKDQFH IIRRUUDLQ 6DWWXXUGDD\\  WWKKDW PLJKW EH WKXXQQGHUU\\ DW WLPHV  ƒ&  ƒ& 95%6(      NPK Bala Reddaiah. (C 5382) 20-2-2018 PRAAYYER TIMES RECORDED YESTERDAAYY AATT KUWWAAIT AIRPORT Fajr  MAX. Temp.  °C Sunrise  MIN. Temp.  °C Zuhr  MAX. RH  % Asr  MIN. RH  % Sunset  MAX. WWiind :  km/h Isha TOTTAALL RAINFFAALLL IN 24 HR.  mm 112 For labor-related Automated enquiry inquiries and complaints: about the Civil ID card is Call MSAL hotline 128 1889988

Directorate General of Civil Aviation Home Page (www.kuwait-airport.com.kw) DIAL161 FOR AIRPORT INFORMATION

Arrival Flights on Wednesday 21/2/2018 KAC 692 Muscat 14:15 Departure Flights on Wednesday 21/2/2018 SAW 702 Damascus 13:30 Airlines Flt Route Time FDB 059 Dubai 14:20 Airlines Flt Route Time JZR 176 Dubai 13:40 JAI 572 Mumbai 00:05 QTR 1078 Doha 14:20 AIC 976 Goa/Chennai 00:05 MSR 611 Cairo 14:00 JZR 607 Kochi 00:10 KAC 672 Dubai 14:25 JZR 528 Asyut 00:15 UAE 872 Dubai 14:15 JZR 539 Cairo 00:50 KAC 412 Bangkok 14:35 JAI 573 Mumbai 00:30 AXB 394 Kozhikode 14:15 KAC 102 London 00:50 GFA 221 Bahrain 14:40 MSC 406 Sohag 00:30 JZR 124 Bahrain 14:30 PGT 858 Istanbul 00:55 KNE 529 Jeddah 14:55 FDB 072 Dubai 00:35 KAC 661 Abu Dhabi 15:00 THY 772 Istanbul 00:55 KAC 662 Abu Dhabi 14:55 MSC 412 Asyut 01:00 KAC 673 Dubai 15:05 DLH 625 Bahrain 01:45 KNE 683 Madinah 15:05 JAI 571 Mumbai 01:05 FDB 060 Dubai 15:10 THY 764 Istanbul 01:50 KAC 788 Jeddah 15:10 JZR 504 Luxor 01:30 QTR 8512 Doha 15:25 ETH 620 Addis Ababa 02:15 KAC 304 Mumbai 15:10 JZR 142 Doha 01:45 GFA 222 Bahrain 15:25 QTR 1086 Doha 02:20 ETD 303 Abu Dhabi 15:15 KAC 677 Dubai 01:50 KAC 785 Jeddah 15:25 GFA 211 Bahrain 02:30 KAC 562 Amman 15:30 KAC 285 Dhaka 01:55 QTR 1079 Doha 15:30 KLM 446 Bahrain 02:30 JZR 787 Riyadh 15:30 KAC 417 Manila 02:00 SVA 501 Jeddah 15:45 WAN 548 KTM 02:40 OMA 645 Muscat 15:35 KAC 363 Colombo 02:00 KNE 530 Jeddah 15:45 OMA 643 Muscat 02:55 UAE 857 Dubai 15:45 THY 773 Istanbul 02:30 KAC 775 Riyadh 15:50 KKK 1268 Istanbul 02:55 QTR 1072 Doha 15:55 PGT 859 Istanbul 02:30 KAC 283 Dhaka 15:50 RJA 644 Amman 03:05 SAW 705 Damascus 16:00 DLH 625 Frankfurt 02:45 KAC 743 Dammam 16:05 ETD 305 Abu Dhabi 03:10 KAC 118 New York 16:00 AXB 396 Kozhikode 02:55 PAL 669 Manila 16:10 FEG 931 Alexandria 03:15 JZR 535 Cairo 16:00 ETH 621 Addis Ababa 03:05 KAC 563 Amman 16:10 MSR 612 Cairo 03:15 ABY 127 Sharjah 16:00 UAE 854 Dubai 03:40 KAC 619 Doha 16:10 QTR 1076 Doha 03:50 SVA 504 Madinah 16:00 QTR 1087 Doha 03:40 ETD 304 Abu Dhabi 16:20 KAC 796 Madinah 03:50 WAN 436 Al Najaf 16:10 KLM 446 Amsterdam 03:55 OMA 646 Muscat 16:35 KAC 382 Delhi 04:15 JZR 357 Mashhad 16:25 KKK 1269 Istanbul 03:55 ABY 128 Sharjah 16:40 KAC 1544 Cairo 04:25 JZR 779 Jeddah 16:25 OMA 644 Muscat 03:55 KAC 615 Bahrain 16:40 KAC 418 Manila 04:25 FDB 051 Dubai 16:40 THY 765 Istanbul 04:00 FDK 802 Damascus 16:55 UAE 873 Dubai 04:25 KAC 522 Al Najaf 16:45 MSR 607 Luxor 04:05 QTR 1073 Doha 17:15 KAC 784 Jeddah 04:35 RJA 640 Amman 16:55 ETD 306 Abu Dhabi 04:05 JZR 240 Amman 17:15 KAC 284 Dhaka 04:50 KAC 542 Cairo 17:05 MSR 613 Cairo 04:15 JZR 266 Beirut 17:15 FDB 069 Dubai 04:55 WAN 954 Baku 17:15 LMU 5511 Cairo 05:00 FDB 052 Dubai 17:40 JZR 609 Hyderabad 05:10 SVA 510 Riyadh 17:15 QTR 1091 Doha 05:05 UAE 858 Dubai 17:45 GFA 215 Bahrain 17:30 DHX 170 Bahrain 05:20 KAC 205 Islamabad 05:20 KAC 361 Colombo 17:45 JZR 777 Jeddah 17:40 JZR 143 Doha 05:25 QTR 1077 Doha 05:30 RJA 641 Amman 17:55 UAE 875 Dubai 18:00 THY 770 Istanbul 05:25 FDB 070 Dubai 05:45 SYR 342 Damascus 18:00 KAC 332 Trivandrum 05:40 FDB 063 Dubai 18:10 KAC 303 Mumbai 06:05 JZR 483 Istanbul 18:15 KAC 331 Trivandrum 18:00 KAC 344 Chennai 05:50 JZR 560 Sohag 06:25 KAC 343 Chennai 18:00 KAC 302 Mumbai 06:10 JZR 177 Dubai 18:15 JZR 786 Riyadh 06:25 MSR 620 Cairo 18:30 SVA 511 Riyadh 18:15 KAC 362 Colombo 06:25 THY 771 Istanbul 06:50 JZR 538 Cairo 18:15 KAC 678 Dubai 06:30 QTR 1080 Doha 18:50 JZR 164 Dubai 06:55 KAC 744 Dammam 19:10 GFA 216 Bahrain 18:20 WAN 338 Alexandria 06:40 RJA 645 Amman 07:05 JZR 184 Dubai 18:30 KAC 206 Islamabad 06:50 KAC 776 Riyadh 19:20 GFA 212 Bahrain 07:15 JZR 608 Hyderabad 18:40 BAW 157 London 07:10 ABY 123 Sharjah 19:25 KAC 167 Paris 07:35 WAN 115 Bahrain 18:50 FDB 053 Dubai 07:35 KAC 156 Istanbul 19:30 KAC 501 Beirut 08:00 KAC 381 Delhi 18:50 KAC 384 Delhi 08:00 GFA 217 Bahrain 19:30 KAC 171 Frankfurt 08:00 FDB 064 Dubai 19:10 KAC 358 Kochi 08:05 KAC 674 Dubai 19:45 THY 6376 Dubai/Istanbul 08:10 JZR 554 Alexandria 19:20 UAE 855 Dubai 08:35 FDB 057 Dubai 19:50 KAC 165 Rome 08:15 KAC 616 Bahrain 19:55 UAE 876 Dubai 19:30 JZR 605 Ahmedabad 08:45 FDB 054 Dubai 08:35 KNE 381 Taif 20:00 MSR 621 Cairo 19:30 ETD 301 Abu Dhabi 09:05 KAC 787 Jeddah 08:40 KAC 166 Rome 20:10 QTR 1081 Doha 20:00 ABY 125 Sharjah 09:05 BAW 156 London 08:55 KAC 620 Doha 20:15 RBG 556 Alexandria 20:05 QTR 1070 Doha 09:10 KAC 117 New York 09:00 OMA 647 Muscat 20:20 ABY 124 Sharjah 20:05 FDB 055 Dubai 09:40 JZR 534 Cairo 09:10 KAC 512 Mashhad 20:40 GFA 218 Bahrain 20:15 IRC 6552 ABD 09:50 QTR 1088 Doha 20:45 KAC 561 Amman 09:40 KIS 6032 Mashhad 10:00 ABY 126 Sharjah 09:45 FDB 058 Dubai 20:35 DLH 624 Frankfurt 20:45 NIA 162 Cairo 20:40 GFA 213 Bahrain 10:40 WAN 136 Doha 21:15 KAC 671 Dubai 09:45 IRA 665 Shiraz 10:40 KAC 101 London 09:45 KAC 301 Mumbai 20:50 ALK 229 Colombo 21:20 KAC 357 Kochi 21:00 WAN 114 Bahrain 11:00 MEA 402 Beirut 21:20 ETD 9882 SGN 09:50 AXB 890 Mangalore/Bahrain 11:10 UAE 856 Dubai 10:00 OMA 648 Muscat 21:20 ETD 307 Abu Dhabi 21:20 KAC 1543 Cairo 21:20 IRM 1188 Mashhad 11:15 KAC 786 Jeddah 21:25 KAC 515 Tehran 10:00 QTR 1074 Doha 11:20 KAC 541 Cairo 10:00 DLH 624 Bahrain 21:30 KAC 172 Frankfurt 21:30 DHX 171 Bahrain 21:50 JZR 165 Dubai 11:30 UAE 859 Dubai 21:35 ETD 302 Abu Dhabi 10:10 WAN 134 Doha 11:55 KAC 773 Riyadh 10:10 QTR 1089 Doha 22:00 GFA 219 Bahrain 21:45 KAC 411 Bangkok 22:05 MEA 404 Beirut 11:55 KLM 445 Amsterdam 21:50 KAC 617 Doha 10:15 ETD 308 Abu Dhabi 22:10 IAW 157 Al Najaf 12:00 WAN 116 Bahrain 21:50 QTR 1071 Doha 10:20 MEA 403 Beirut 22:20 RBG 553 Alexandria 12:15 KAC 564 Amman 22:00 KAC 155 Istanbul 10:25 ALK 230 Colombo 22:25 KAC 286 Dhaka 12:35 QTR 1082 Doha 22:05 FDB 056 Dubai 10:35 KAC 798 Taif 12:45 ETD 309 Abu Dhabi 22:15 JZR 778 Jeddah 10:40 GFA 220 Bahrain 22:30 JZR 561 Sohag 12:45 AIC 975 Chennai/Goa 22:25 ZAV 4101 IQA 11:00 KAC 783 Jeddah 22:35 KAC 742 Dammam 12:50 SVA 514 Riyadh 22:30 GFA 214 Bahrain 11:25 KAC 383 Delhi 22:40 UAE 871 Dubai 12:50 JZR 241 Amman 22:40 IRA 674 Lar 11:40 KLM 445 Bahrain 22:50 MSR 610 Cairo 13:00 SVA 502 Jeddah 22:45 WAN 953 Baku 12:00 UAE 860 Dubai 23:00 CLX 792 Luxembourg 13:20 JZR 185 Dubai 23:10 JZR 776 Jeddah 12:00 KAC 795 Madinah 23:05 KAC 774 Riyadh 13:40 JAI 574 Mumbai 23:15 MSC 404 Asyut 12:15 ICV 675 Hong Kong 23:10 KNE 231 Riyadh 14:10 PIA 239 Sialkot 23:40 QTR 1075 Doha 12:30 QTR 1083 Doha 23:20 SVA 500 Jeddah 14:15 FDB 071 Dubai 23:45 JZR 606 Kochi 12:45 PIA 240 Sialkot 23:35 KAC 618 Doha 14:15 MSC 411 Asyut 23:55 MEA 405 Beirut 12:55 WAN 337 Alexandria 23:45 28 Established 1961 Wednesday, February 21, 2018 Lifestyle Music & Movies New take on real-life hijack drama in ‘7 Days in Entebbe’

he counter-terrorism plot seems more far sides of the conflict and “still true today”. flights who launch a surprise raid using a fake fetched than many action thrillers, yet “7 presidential limousine. On day seven, the special TDays in Entebbe”, which premiered at the Echoes of Holocaust forces shot dead all the kidnappers and scores of Berlin film festival Monday, depicts a real-life air- The hijacking of a Paris-bound Air France Ugandan troops while rescuing all but four of the line hijack drama. The movie recounts what is flight from Tel Aviv was a joint plot of Palestinian remaining 106 hostages. The only Israeli soldier often called the most audacious hostage rescue militants and their far-left German backers, who killed was unit commander Yonatan Netanyahu, mission ever staged, Israel’s 1976 “Operation saw themselves as anti-imperialist revolutionar- the elder brother of Israeli Prime Minister Thunderbolt” in Uganda, but aims to be more ies. The militants-the two Germans are portrayed Benjamin Netanyahu. than a tale of military heroism. Instead Brazilian by Daniel Bruehl (“Good Bye, Lenin!”) and On their way out, the Israeli forces blew up director Jose Padilha (“Narcos”) explores the Rosamund Pike (“Gone Girl”) — took over the Uganda’s fleet of Soviet MiG fighters, although harrowing events from multiple perspectives: that flight after an Athens stop-over. After a refuelling the film does not depict the fiery end of the oper- of the hijackers and their hostages, and of the stop in Moamer Kadhafi’s Libya, they headed to ation, instead interspersing the battle scenes with Israeli leaders forced to decide whether to nego- Entebbe, Uganda, then ruled by brutal dictator Idi a dance choreography. The new version, based in tiate or fight. Amin, who is described in the film as a “lunatic” part on testimony from flight engineer Jacques Several previous movies, said Padilha, had who feeds his enemies to crocodiles. The diver- Lemoine, shows Boese deciding against mas- depicted “a gigantic military feat and ignored the gent motivations of the kidnappers become evi- sacring the Jewish passengers before he goes interaction between the hostages and their dent when they separate out the Israeli passen- down in a hail of bullets. hijackers and the political aspects in Israel”. gers in scenes that chillingly evoke the Holocaust. “The hostages had got into his head,” Padilha Padilha, a previous Berlinale winner for “Elite Bruehl’s character Wilfried Boese, a book-sell- told a press conference on the movie, which is Squad”, said he had met former hostages, flight er who considers himself an anti-fascist urban screening out of competition, adding that this had crew and Israeli political and military veterans to guerrilla, is portrayed as increasingly troubled. As helped to “save their own lives”. Asked whether get beyond the “standard military narrative”. The the cracks widen, a Palestinian militant angrily he was ready for a “backlash” against showing battle between Israel’s then prime minister tells Boese: “You are here because you hate your “terrorists with a conscience”, the director said Yitzhak Rabin and the more hawkish defence country. I am here because I love mine.” that, although they do “terrible, inexcusable minister Shimon Peres illustrated why there is still things... terrorists are human beings”. —AFP no Middle East peace, said the director. “You see ‘Into his head’ the dynamic, you realise how difficult it is for a The fear of a Jewish bloodbath also drives Brazilian director Jose Padilha, English actress Rosamund Pike and German actor Daniel politician in Israel to negotiate” with the enemy, Rabin’s cabinet, where Peres puts together a plan Bruehl pose on the red carpet upon arrival for the premiere of the film ‘7 Days in Entebbe’ Padilha said, adding that this was true on both involving 100 commandos in under-the-radar presented in competition during the 68th Berlinale film festival in Berlin. — AFP

Abused actress slams Kim Ki-duk’s Saoirse Ronan, Oscar veteran Berlinale defense at 23, laughs off her chances South Korean actress assaulted by top director Kim Ki-duk yesterday rejected his defense at the Berlin film festival, saying it A aoirse Ronan is not like other have a lens pointed at your face,” she told best director. “She deserves it so much. It had left her “dumbfounded” and calling his invita- tion to the prestigious event “morally problemat- Hollywood stars. Spread out on a AFP as she promoted “Lady Bird” in the was a really momentous thing for the ic”. The acclaimed South Korean director has won Ssofa in a luxury Paris hotel in a “Mary French capital. “So you have to have the times we are in to have at least one prizes at the Berlinale, Cannes and Venice festivals Magdalene, sorry Maggie Marilyn” pyja- attitude that it is more important to get woman nominated and completely but is at the center of a #MeToo storm at this ma suit looking like a vamp from “The what you are doing right than worry deservedly. That means a lot to all of us,” year’s Berlinale-which organizers said they want- Great Gatsby”, she is joking about her whether you look pretty.” Doing good said Ronan. In terms of empowerment, ed to spotlight misconduct in the industry-over bad skin. The sideburns of acne she has in work has been Ronan’s watchword since “getting to play a confident teenage girl” the actress’ physical and sex abuse accusations. “Lady Bird”, the acclaimed coming-of- she was very young, carefully choosing also mattered hugely, she said. Kim, 57, has been fined 5 million won ($4,600) age movie that has won her a third Oscar quality films rather than playing the fame “It’s so rare to see a teenage girl just by South Korean prosecutors for physically nomination at the age of 23, were very game. “I was offered an action film at the own it in a film — someone who just goes assaulting her while shooting his 2013 film much her own, she laughed. “No, they same time as ‘Atonement’ (when she was for it and isn’t afraid to fall on their face. “Moebius”. They dropped sex abuse allegations were real!” she told AFP. “I had a bad skin 12) but I knew even then that was not the There is a strength and a bravery you can against him for lack of evidence. In Berlin on at the time so we just didn’t cover it up. direction I wanted to go in,” she said. catch from that person.” Ronan is acutely Saturday Kim said he did not remember exactly “Weirdly I never got bad skin as a She was a more obvious choice to play conscious that “Lady Bird” has already what happened and did not agree with the ruling, teenager at all,” said the Irish actress, who an Irish immigrant in “Brooklyn”, and become a key cultural reference for many but would accept responsibility. He admitted was first nominated for an Academy Ronan insisted that hooking up with indie teenage girls. “She is quite outspoken repeatedly slapping the actress on set for an “act- Award when she was only 13 for star Greta Gerwig for her directorial which I am too. She is trying to find her ing lesson” but said that his signature ultra-violent “Atonement”. “It was only when I was 21 debut on “Lady Bird” was also a “no- people and her places. When I was cinematic style did not reflect his own personality, or 22 when I was doing loads of press that brainer”. “When you read a script where around 18 I knew (like her that) I needed describing himself as a “good human being”. I got it. So, it was you that did it,” she one of the introductory scenes is some- to get out and find who I was. “Like The actress-who refuses to be publicly identi- laughed. Ronan is often talked about as one arguing with their mother and jump- Greta and Lady Bird I wanted to go to fied-told AFP she was “so dumbfounded that I one of the most talented actors of her ing out of a car it is a massive selling New York. I was only there eight months laughed”. “He does not even remember beating generation-she won a best actress Golden point. but it was enough to say, ‘I’ve found me. He said he is not a violent person,” she added. Globe last month for “Lady Bird”, her With Greta I knew it would be smart, myself!’” she laughed. As for finally lifting “A person who is not violent slaps a woman’s face “sensational” portrayal of a Sacramento interesting and funny,” she said. Gerwig, an Oscar next month at the third attempt, like that and does not even remember?” teenager in the last year of high school who made her name both writing and Ronan insists that she “hasn’t thought whose lofty ambitions are often at odds starring in “Frances Ha” and “Mistress about winning. When you win you have to with reality and her family’s precarious America” with director Noah Baumbach, do all the press afterwards, and you don’t finances. She is also one of the most said it was a marriage made in heaven. get a chance to have a dance. So it is also down-to-earth, seemingly unphased by Even though the film is semi-autobio- quite nice losing because you can enjoy having grown up in front of the camera as graphical, Gerwig said she didn’t really the night.”—AFP a child actor from the age of eight. “My “understand the character until (Ronan) Mam came away with me on every job till started saying the lines... she is this flawed I was 18, and my Dad is an actor, so they but amazing heroine.” understood the pitfalls.” US-Irish actress Saoirse Ronan ‘Momentous’ moment poses on the red carpet upon Puberty before the cameras And for her part, Ronan said she cried arrival at the BAFTA British Even so, “going through puberty on when Gerwig was nominated for an Academy Film Awards at the Royal screen can very easily be terrifying. You Oscar. Incredibly it was only the fifth time Albert Hall in London. — AFP are so aware of what you look like, and to that a woman had been nominated for

South Korean filmmaker Kim Ki-duk poses during a photocall to present the film ‘Human, Space, Time and Human’ (Inkan, Gonkan, Sikan Grigo Inkan) in the Disabled by alchohol - Van Sant Panorama Special section during the 68th Berlinale film festival in Berlin. — AFP brings cartoonist biopic to Berlin ‘It is about power’ Kim told his audience in Berlin that none of the t was a role Robin Williams wanted ing cartoons that often addressed the film crew had objected to his actions while making to play in honor of his friend darker side of human nature, while bat- “Moebius”. The actress retorted that was the I“Superman” actor Christopher tling alcoholism. Director Gus Van “king on his film set” where no one dared to voice Award-winning UK film on witch-hunts in Reeve - the true story of a quadriple- Sant said Williams had asked him to opposition to his behavior. “He instinctively knew gic who despite his disability makes his work on adapting the memoir into a that no one would say a word.” The actress has name as a talented cartoonist. But screenplay. accused Kim of forcing her into unwanted and Zambia hoped to curb attacks on women while Williams, who committed suicide “He liked John Callahan’s work - he unscripted nude and sex scenes, and has appealed in 2014, never got the chance to play saw it in his local newspaper in San n award-winning British film about Kenya and Nigeria are still branded witches against the decision by Seoul prosecutors to dis- the part, his interest in cartoonist John Francisco - and Christopher Reeve was witch-hunts in Zambia could play an - often by their relatives or neighbors - in a miss the sex abuse allegation for lack of evidence. Callahan helped bring the story to the a friend of his who had had an accident important role in curbing violence bid to usurp their land or inheritance, say “The issue of sex violence is about power,” she A screen, in a biopic competing for the and he very much wanted to play a against women if translated into local lan- campaigners. In many cases, victims are eld- told AFP. “It is not just about men versus women. top prize at the Berlin festival. quadriplegic, partly in honor of his guages and distributed widely, according to erly widowed women who are humiliated, It is about power. “People listen to the voices of “Don’t Worry, He Won’t Get Far on friend, who was a quadriplegic,” Van human rights campaigners. The film “I Am beaten, stripped and ostracized from their famous, powerful victims and support them. “I’m a Foot,” based on Callahan’s 1989 mem- Sant said. The film shows Callahan at Not A Witch” - which tells the story of an communities. Sometimes they are lynched. powerless person who risked everything in my life eight-year-old Zambian girl accused of being Children are also targeted with their par- oir, shows the young man partying Alcoholics Anonymous, revealing how to speak out. I have nothing to protect me. I have a witch - was named the most outstanding ents and communities misled into battering, while in thrall to alcoholism before a being abandoned by his mother as a no fame, no money, but that does not mean that debut film on Sunday at Britain’s top film maiming, drowning, burning and abandoning car accident on a drunken night out child drove him to drink. —Reuters my voice can be ignored.” awards, the BAFTAs. Welsh-Zambian direc- them. “In the African context, witch branding leaves him quadriplegic at age 21. It tor Rungano Nyoni spent a month in a so- usually leads to alienation of women from the follows his career as the creator of bit- Public shaming called “witch camp” in Ghana to research the community and this denies her rights to own The Berlinale organizers have said the festival low budget film about a girl banished from land or even inherit it and reduces her ability “condemns and opposes any form of violence or her village to stay with other women also to fend for herself,” said ActionAid Kenya’s sexual misconduct.” The actress accused them of branded as witches. Campaigners said films Philip Kilonzo. taking violence against women “too lightly” by about often overlooked abuse of women “It is increasingly becoming a practice in inviting Kim. “If a festival that declared itself as a such as female genital mutilation and child some communities to lynch witches which forum to discuss about and support #Metoo cam- marriage - helped raise awareness about the leads to further violation of their rights by paign made a decision like this... it is morally prob- reality of these practices and could help bust denying them the right to life.” Activists said lematic,” she said. myths and false narratives spanning decades. it was key that films addressing these issues Her allegations against the renowned director “Films on under reported or little known were seen where it mattered most. “The use are a rarity in the male-dominated, tight-knit film gender abuses are very important as they of films can be limiting in challenging such industry in South Korea, which remains a patriar- can bring these often hidden issues to the forms of violence against women as films chal and conservative society despite its economic public’s attention and force them into the speak to the privileged in the society, yet and technological advances. Women in the movie light,” said Shelby Quast, director of the issues such as witch branding happen in the industry, both on screen or behind cameras, shy charity Equality Now. “Bringing these stories very remote rural areas and informal settle- away from making public accusations against sen- to light can help survivors, civil society and ments in urban areas,” said Makena (From left) US actor Joaquin Phoenix, US film director and screenwriter Gus Van ior staffers or directors for fear of permanently communities to hold their government and Mwobobia, ActionAid Kenya’s Head of Sant and German actor Udo Kier pose during the photo call for the film ‘Don’t damaging their careers.—AFP duty bearers to account.” Policy. —Reuters Worry, He Won’t Get Far on Foot’ in competition during the 68th edition of the Millions of women and girls in countries Berlinale film festival in Berlin yesterday. — AFP ranging from India and Pakistan to Tanzania, Established 1961 29 Lifestyle Features Wednesday, February 21, 2018

Art work by Mona Al-Hazeem. Art work by Suhaila AL-Atteyah. Abdullah Al-kandri pose next to one of his paintings. Hassan Al-Safar pose with one of his work. Global hosts an arts gallery featuring paintings and photographs in conjunction with the National holidays

lobal Investment House (“Global” or the reception was held yesterday and was attend- “Company”), a regional asset manage- ed by art lovers who expressed their admira- Gment and investment banking firm head- tion for the works exhibited. quartered in Kuwait, with offices in major capital Nawal Mulla-Hussain, Chief Operation Officer markets in the MENA region, hosted an arts at Global said, “The company’s role in the social gallery featuring paintings and photographs from field is inseparable from its economic role, as its 11th till 23rd of February 2018 at Global Tower, in contribution to the community is a cornerstone of conjunction with the National holidays. The first its business and activities. Global enjoys a strong week of the exhibition was held in cooperation track record in its diverse social activities target- with several artists who portrayed some of the ing different segments of society.” national and cultural figures and the Kuwaiti her- The gallery is the second of a series of exhibi- itage in a way that expresses their artistic views. tions held by the company under its social initia- Ebtisam Al-Asfour, Suhaila AL-Atteyah, Wesal tive, “Global Art Gallery”, to highlight the pur- Al-Abdulraouf, Jamila Hussain, Samira Bu kham- poseful messages of artists and highlight the tal- seen, Mona Al-Hazeem, Abdulrahman Al-Hamoud ents they enjoy by displaying their works of art each had an active participation by presenting such as paintings, photographs, sculptures, hand- many of their paintings. crafts amongst others. The first gallery was host- The second week featured photographs by ed last November under the theme “combating professional photographers including Hassan violence” in conjunction with the United Nations Al-Safar, Ahmed Al-Safar, Sara Al-Saygh, campaign for “International Day for the Sara Al-Tuhaih, Mufadhal Mohammed, Elimination of Violence against Women”. Abdullah Al-kandri, Abdullah Hamadah, Photo shows artists with Global management. Nasser Al-Qattan and Yaqoub Al-muhana. A Sara Al-Saygh pose with one of her work. New chapter: A landmark move for Greece’s national library

earing masks and gloves, specialized staff gin- gerly place their treasured cargo inside Wwheeled, shock-absorbing boxes for a historic trip to the other end of Athens in the biggest book move in Greek history. From January until April, the National Library of Greece is moving root and branch, out of its 100-year-old home in central Athens and literally into the 21st-century. “This is no simple move. It’s a journey Moving boxes are seen as workers create an inventory at the into a new era,” says library general director Filippos old historic National Library of Greece in Athens. Tsimpoglou. More than 550 staff worked on the two-year opera- tion to clean, digitise, tag and relocate over 700,000 manuscripts and books, made possible by a massive donation from the Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF), one of the country’s leading philanthropic organizations. The foundation in 2016 unveiled the library’s new home- a 20-hectare (49-acre) cultural center designed by famed Italian architect Renzo Piano on the Athens seafront that also hosts the national opera. Tourists take pictures in front of the old historic The Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center, National Library of Greece building in Athens. named after one of Greece’s most successful shipown- ers, cost nearly 600 million euros ($735 million) and took eight years to design and build. Library staff say housed in the iconic Vallianeio neoclassic mansion in milestone in the history of Athens’ ‘rediscovery’ by the the move could not have come soon enough. And with- central Athens, designed by Theophil Hansen and built Europeans in the 17th century,” says Yannis Kokkonas, out private funds in crisis-hit Greece, it would never by Ernst Ziller, the architects that beautified 19th centu- professor of historical bibliography at Ionian University. have happened. The relocation alone cost 500,000 ry Athens. But in a listed building that could not be easi- “Until then, references to Athens were vague medieval euros. The Greek state nevertheless did manage to ly remodeled and with a reading room of just 80 seats, stereotypes of a once-glorious city now lying in ruins,” contribute-it and the SNF together paid the overall staff say it was time to move on. Kokkonas said. costs of the library revamp, which came to just over 10 “The National Library had approximately 20,000 million euros. visitors and 21,000 readers each year. At its new facili- It ‘hurt’ to leave ties, the annual number of visitors and readers is Another prized relic is a 14th century prayer book Room to grow expected to be 10 times higher,” said reading room that once belonged to Jovan Uros Nemanjic, one of the “For years, the library has been clamoring for space,” head Vasiliki Tsigouni. The library will now be able to last members of a dynasty that ruled Serbia and parts of library engineer Chrysanthi Vassiliadou told a media provide ebooks and electronic journals, and for the first Greece in the Middle Ages. For all its limitations, veter- briefing earlier this month. “As a country we were a little time also lend a selection of copies to readers. The an staff say the venerable Vallianeio building was hard People sit and walk at the new home of the National Library behind in terms of services provided,” she said. Since reading room will be expanded to 400 seats. And to part with. Once restored, it will still be used to hold of Greece, at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural 1903, most of the National Library collection has been thanks to SNF funds, the library has renewed its for- library archives and events. “When the building started Center, in Athens. eign-language collection for the first time in 20 years. emptying, it hurt us. We have been working here for Founded in 1832, the National Library is the custodi- many years, we identify with this building,” said an of Greece’s cultural heritage in written form-includ- Vassiliadou. “Now it can be restored. We are impatient ing rare copies of Homeric texts, 1,200-year-old manu- to see this work bear fruit in the new facilities. And then scripts, maps, Byzantine-era music, 19th century Greek come back to fix this building and complete the circle,” revolutionary archives and the personal papers of poet she said. — AFP Dionysios Solomos, author of the Greek national anthem. In the past, it has been housed in an orphanage, a public bathhouse and a cathedral in Athens. Just plan- ning how to display the collections in the new 22,000- square-metre library building took a year, with the British Library acting as consultant to the SNF.

Set for 25 years “At the rate of today’s book production, (the new building can meet our needs) for 25 years, if not more,” said Vassiliadou. Four climate-controlled vaults will hold the library’s rarest books and manuscripts, some of which date back to the 9th century, organizers said. Some of the oldest books were donated by prominent 19th century Greek citizens, monasteries and even for- eign royals. Among its treasures is a 1674 chronicle written by Jacques-Paul Babin, a Jesuit missionary who People walk at the new home of the was a frequent visitor to Athens, and published by National Library of Greece. French archaeology pioneer Jacob Spon. Librarians arrange newly arrived books in shelves at the new “It is the first book on Athens in modern times... a home of the National Library of Greece. — AFP photos 30 Established 1961 Wednesday, February 21, 2018 Lifestyle Fashion

Models present creations by British fashion label Temperley London during a catwalk show on the third day of London Fashion Week Autumn/Winter 2018 in London. London Fashion: Erdem shows fancy florals; Kane goes for relationships

ondon Fashion Week saw a flurry point was reminded by the none-too- Erdem builds on of shows Monday emphasizing subtle voiceover on the soundtrack a delicate, veiled theme Lromance and femininity, often encouraging people to experience more Erdem’s London Fashion Week show with exquisite workmanship and dashes joy, more play and more love. made heavy use of veils - and black veil of mystery and drama. Dresses domi- Many of Kane’s dresses were semi- material - not only to shade the faces of nated the runway. Christopher Kane sheer and lacy, in simple but effective many models but also as the fabric for offered a strong collection of very femi- blacks and reds, along with some rela- leggings, long gloves and some shawls nine, sometimes very revealing dresses tively demure knitwear, including an and capes. The veil material was at his catwalk show at the Tate Britain impressive deep purple dress. Kane detailed with black polka dots that museum. made very effective use of black set off became a design motif throughout the with silver, as well as primarily black show, giving the models an unearthly Britain’s Catherine, outfits that seemed to shimmer with col- and sometimes off-putting look when Duchess of Cambridge, or. Pants were sometimes ripped or had their faces were totally obscured. Britain’s Sophie, Countess fabric cut out and some blouses and A few outfits had retro flair, includ- of Wessex, and designer dresses sported horizontal “peekaboo” ing some silver metallic skirts that Stella McCartney (right) slits. Kane used a wide variety of mate- evoked the flapper era, and some fused chat during a reception to rials, including cotton canvas coats, raw Asian designs that gave the show an mark the creation of the wools and crushed velvet. international feel. Colors were rich and Commonwealth Fashion vibrant and the floral designs were Exchange initiative at complex and evocative. The show, with Buckingham Palace. American Vogue editor Anna Wintour in her customary front-row seat, showed a remarkably uniform approach to design, each piece reinforcing and building on the look.

Glamorous night at Buckingham palace Prince William’s wife, Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge, co-hosted a fashion reception at Buckingham Palace with Sophie, the Countess of Wessex and wife of Prince Edward, William’s uncle. The two were acting on behalf of Queen Elizabeth II at the glittery event. Among the guests Monday night were model Naomi Campbell, designer Stella McCartney and Edward Enninful, the new editor of British Vogue. The event was a celebration of the Commonwealth Fashion Exchange, launched earlier this month to foster partnerships between established and emerging talents in the Commonwealth countries ahead of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in London in April.

Blast from the past: Paulina Porizkova returns Almost overlooked in the flood of attention paid to Christopher Bailey’s farewell show at Burberry was the return of Czech-born Paulina Porizkova, one of the original supermodels. She made a rare catwalk appearance Saturday to support designer Jiri Kalfar. —AP

Canada-born designer Erdem Moralioglu turned the National Portrait Gallery into a showcase for his contem- porary designs, which featured long, elaborately made dresses, many with floral themes offset by black back- grounds.

Christopher Kane channels ‘the joy of relationships’ False alarm at Tate sends Kane went “old school” for his models into drizzly rain London Fashion Week show with a col- There was an unexpected evacuation lection that overtly referenced two 70s’ of the Tate Britain Museum several hours classics: “The Joy of Sex” and “More before the Christopher Kane show, Joy of Sex” books. “I have never shied sending visitors - and models - into a away from sex in the collections and this light rain outside while a fire alarm was Models present creations from Preen one is no different,” said Kane. “Since checked. The models were rained on for Models present creations from designer the beginning, I have found it funda- about 20 minutes before the alarm was by Thornton Bregazzi during their Christopher Kane during their catwalk catwalk show on the third day of mental to our idea of women. Women lifted, creating some challenges for show on the fourth day of London Fashion with their own power who create their makeup artists and stylists preparing for London Fashion Week Autumn/Winter Week Autumn/Winter 2018 in London on 2018 in London. own worlds.” Anyone who missed the Kane’s showcase event. February 19, 2018. — AFP photos Established 1961 31

Wednesday, February 21, 2018 Lifestyle Fashion

Models present creations by ASAI during the Fashion East catwalk show.

Models present creations by Symonds Pearmain during the Fashion East catwalk. Established 1961 T

Lifestyle WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2018

Revelers hold flares as they take part in the “flour war”, during the celebration of “Ash Monday”, a traditional festivity marking the end of the carnival season and the start of the 40-day Lent period until the Orthodox Easter, in the port town of Galaxidi. — AFP Conciergerie Museum used to be a dreaded prison

he Conciergerie Museum used to be a Antoinette, spouse of the Ling Louis XVI, and luxurious palace for French kings till the the last queen in France. The historic building T14th century. King Charles had trans- houses a spacious church, vast celebration formed it into a court house and a prison compounds and chambers that had been where more than 2,780 people were executed transformed into prison cells. The grand hall, or for betraying the revolution. the soldiers’ chamber, was one of the largest in Photos shows The Conciergerie Museum. — Photo Feature by Mariam Al-Zanki Among the renowned inmates was Marie Europe in the middle ages. — KUNA

utch and French art historians on Monday lace ruffles, Soolmans is depicted holding a glove macro X-ray fluorescence, restorers determined Saving cultural heritage unveiled the surprising results of 18 in his left hand, while Coppit holds a gold chain the two paintings once shared the same large Close analysis also revealed hidden details, Dmonths of painstaking restoration work topped by a black-feathered fan and wears a piece of canvas. It remains unknown however if such as doorways behind each person which on a pair of 17th century portraits by Dutch four-row pearl necklace, with a band of pearls in the portraits were painted together and then Rembrandt later covered over by painting in a master Rembrandt. The portraits of a newly mar- her hair. Using sophisticated scientific tech- separated, although restorers believe the canvas simple black curtain as a background. The ried Dutch couple were jointly bought in 2015 by niques, including ultra-violet scans, X-rays and was split prior to painting. restoration has infused the paintings with new the Netherlands and France for 160 million euros light, to show off the “incredible modernity” of ($174 million) from the wealthy Rothschild bank- Rembrandt’s original work, said Dibbits. The ing family in an unprecedented deal. details stand out, such as the exquisite lace ruf- Teams from the Louvre in Paris and the fles on Marten’s shoes. It “feels as if you press Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam spent the past 18 them they will bounce back,” he said. months researching the paintings, before care- Sebastien Allard, head of the Louvre’s paint- fully removing at least six layers of old varnish ings department, praised what he called “an as part of “an exciting adventure” to restore the innovative” project, which after complicated canvases. “They are undoubtedly completely negotiations “finally came to a European solution painted by Rembrandt up to the smallest to protect cultural heritage.” The project was a detail,” Rijksmuseum general director Taco first for the team of restorers, who under a “pre- Dibbits told reporters Monday, adding they nup” agreement had to collaboratively agree on were Rembrandt’s first and only full-length por- every detail of the restoration, Dibbits quipped. traits of a married couple. Wrangling over the Discussions are still underway as to how the portraits, captured around the time of the cou- paintings will be framed when they go back on ple’s wedding in 1634, had threatened to sour exhibition-the Louvre preferring gilt frames, relations between France and the Netherlands. while the Rijksmuseum prefers plain black wood. But the accord reached to avoid a bidding war For Anne Lepage, a restorer with the will now see the two portraits alternate Louvre, it proved an enriching experience as between the Rijksmuseum and the Louvre. the two teams shared their techniques, as they Affluent Amsterdam couple Marten Soolmans, In this file photo people look at two full-length wedding portraits of Amsterdam couple Oopjen Coppit approached the two portraits with “great This handout photo shows restorers working on a 20, and Oopjen Coppit, 22, commissioned (right) and Marten Soolmans by Dutch painter Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn (1606-1669), bought in respect.” “You never touch a painting without portrait of Oopjen Coppit, one of two full-length Rembrandt to paint the separate portraits. a conjoint operation between the Rijksmuseum and the Louvre Museum, at the Louvre Museum in Paris, having done research, analysis and working wedding portraits, by Dutch painter Rembrandt Both dressed fashionably in black with white during a two-day state visit of the King and the Queen of the Netherlands in France. — AFP photos with the archives. — AFP Harmenszoon van Rijn (1606-1669) in Amsterdam.