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Banks will play critical New Zealand role in investment stun India as spin spending: QNB Group CEO gamble pays off

WEDNESDAY 16 MARCH 2016 • 7 Jumada II 1437 • Volume 21 • Number 6737 thepeninsulaqatar @peninsulaqatar @peninsula_qatar

Emir meets Eritrean President Emir holds phone Qatar’s stadiums call with Djibouti President

DOHA: Emir H H Sheikh Tamim to function bin Hamad Al Thani held a tele- phone call with President of the Republic of Djibouti Ismail Omar Guelleh. They discussed bilateral relations and ways of developing as social hubs them, in addition to a number of issues of common concern.

its facilities accessible. We have upgraded Khalifa Stadium by pro- UN chief asks Khalifa Stadium viding more seats for the disabled, upgraded with and ensuring they have a good view Israel to reverse to be able to watch the matches more seats for just like any ordinary person,” he land seizure the disabled. explained. Al Kuwari stressed it is their aim UNITED NATIONS: UN Secretary- to change people’s perception of stadi- General Ban Ki-moon urged Israel ums from a place solely for sports events yesterday to reverse its confisca- By Raynald C Rivera to a centre for social events and activities. tion of land in the Palestinian West The Peninsula “What we are aiming for is to bring the Bank, describing the decision as whole country in the stadiums. For “an impediment to the two-state example, the stadiums in Al Wakrah, solution” in the Middle East. The Al Rayyan, Lusail and Al Khor will be appeal came after Israel declared DOHA: Stadiums in Qatar will be used not only for sport matches, tour- 234 hectares of West Bank ter- accessible to the disabled and will naments or any other sport events. Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani with President of Eritrea Isaias Afwerki at the Emiri ritory to be state land, fueling function as a social hub as well, says They will also be used for any social Diwan yesterday. They reviewed bilateral relations and the latest developments in the region. concerns of a new spike in ten- a senior Qatari official. event so that families will be able to sions with the Palestinians. “We want to make sure that the go to the stadiums to engage in many stadiums will leave a lasting legacy to activities,” he said. be used by all people in Qatar regard- After World Cup 2022, the upper less of age, race, ability or gender. As tier of the Al Wakrah Stadium will 41 civilians dead a committee in charge of the design reduce the seating capacity from and construction of the stadiums, we 40,000 to 20,000 seats, he said, add- ‘Mini school’ to ensure safe driving in Yemen air raid have to think about the accessibility of ing the surrounding area will have our stadiums,” said Ghanim Al Kuwari, other features such as a community Competition Venues Executive Direc- market, a wedding hall and multi- ADEN: At least 41 Yemeni civilians tor at the Supreme Committee for purpose indoor arena where people By Sidi Mohamed The mini-driving school has been technology and utilise it for traffic were killed when Saudi-led coali- Delivery and Legacy (SC). can gather turning it into a social hub The Peninsula set up by Dalla, a driving academy in safety. For example, we are showing tion warplanes hit a market in the Accessibility is already being accessible to everyone. Doha, at Darb Al Saai where the GCC to visitors some hypothetical acci- rebel-held northern Hajja prov- implemented in the design of the “In coordination with the Com- Traffic Week is being held. dents as if they are real and caused ince. An official at a hospital run stadiums, said Al Kuwari, while munications Department and through Salem Aqueel, Training and Devel- due to some traffic safety rule by Doctors Without Borders (MSF) addressing a press conference on community engagement we have DOHA: The aim of free practical tips opment Manager at Dalla Driving violations such as high speed or over- said the facility had received the the ‘Unlimited Doha Design Prize’ gathered all the necessary informa- in driving being offered by a mini- Academy, said: “We are offering free taking, so they would not forget such bodies of 41 people killed in the yesterday at La Cigale Hotel. tion to finalise the design and give it driving school set up at the venue of practical tips in driving for three to five accidents and would try to avoid such raids, along with 35 people who “For example, Khalifa Stadium, to the main contractors,” he said. It is the ongoing 32nd GCC Traffic Week minutes to every visitor and our aim is violations while driving”, he said. were wounded. which is already an existing sta- already being implemented in Al Khor is to help people avoid serious acci- to ensure a ‘safe motorist’ on the road”. dium, has been enhanced to make and Al Wakrah stadiums. dents, an official said. “We want to benefit from → Continued on page 6 → See also page 10

HOME WEDNESDAY 16 MARCH 2016 03

Qatar stresses need to stand against plans to divide Syria Emir issues ratification instruments QNA Commission of Inquiry on the Syr- The Syrian regime has been pur- regime and its allies to the cessation DOHA: Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani yesterday issued ian Arab Republic. suing policies and means to scuttle of hostilities agreed upon recently instruments of ratification, approving draft agreements on air trans- He condemned Syrian authorities’ political talks since 2012, he said, and violations targeting the moderate port and cooperation in the cultural and arts fields between Qatar and refusal to allow the commission to adding the policies include military Syrian opposition show the regime’s Kuwait, signed in Doha in January; instruments of ratification, approv- DOHA: Qatar has reiterated the enter the Syrian territories to imple- escalation, continued destruction of determination to torpedo the United ing a draft memorandum of understanding (MoU) on cooperation in need to stand against plans to divide ment its mandate. “This interactive cities, bombing of civilians and the Nations’ efforts to reach a political energy and industry between the Ministry of Energy and Industry and and fragment Syria, stressing that dialogue coincides with the launch of displaced, continued imposition of settlement, Al Henzab said. Mexican Ministry of Energy and a draft agreement for cooperation in maintaining the unity of the Syrian a new round of political talks between the blockade, starvation policy, hin- He expressed concern over what education between both countries, signed in Doha in January; and an territory is one of the fixed principles the Syrian parties we hope will lead to dering the delivery of relief aid and was stated in Part V of the report on instrument of ratification, approving a draft MoU for cooperation in that cannot be violated. a political solution to the Syrian cri- medical supplies to the Syrian peo- attempts to destroy Syria and ripping education and higher education and scientific research between Qatar This came in a speech delivered sis.” He said the Syrian regime has ple to relieve suffering, and continued apart its social fabric and condemn- and Chad, signed in Doha on November 17, 2015. by Ambassador Faisal bin Abdullah never been serious about reaching imprisonment of innocent detain- ing in the strongest terms the Syrian Al Henzab, Qatar’s Permanent Rep- such a solution since the beginning ees, especially women and children, regime and its allies’ practices to resentative to the UN Office in Geneva of the crisis that began with peaceful languishing unjustly in prisons and bring about a demographic change Emir ratifies Cabinet decision at a meeting of the 31st session of revolution to establish a democratic subjected to the worst kinds of tor- in Syria, displace people from their the Human Rights Council on inter- system and ensure freedom and jus- ture and oppression. areas of origin and spread sectari- DOHA: Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani yesterday rati- active dialogue with International tice and respect for human rights. The non-respect of the Syrian anism and factionalism. fied Cabinet Decision No. 9 of 2016 on the application of Law No. 24 of 2002 on the retirement and pensions to Qatari employees of ‘Teach for Qatar’ foundation. The decision is effective from its date of issue and will be published in the official gazette. Emir issues decree Ashghal tackles rains in record time

DOHA: Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani yesterday issued Decree No. 20 of 2016, amending unified customs tariff. It is effective from this January 1 and will be published in the official gazette. Water logging and overflowing dealt Emir ratifies two MoUs with Sri Lanka with in 130 places DOHA: Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani yesterday issued during three days of Decree No. 18 of 2016, ratifying an MoU on cooperation in the field of rains. youth between Qatar and Sri Lanka, signed in Colombo on March 24, 2015. It will take effect in line with Article 68 of the Constitution. The Emir also issued Decree No. 19 of 2016, ratifying an MoU in the field of sports between both countries in Colombo on March 24, 2015. The Peninsula It will takes effect in line with Article 68 of the Constitution.

Deputy PM gets call from US envoy DOHA: Ashghal has said its pre- paredness to deal with sudden The Rain Emergency Committee met round-the-clock during the rains earlier this month. DOHA: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs rains earlier this month bore fruit H E Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Zaid Al Mahmoud has received a telephone as rainwater overflow and logging call from the US president’s Special Envoy to Sudan and South Sudan at several spots in various areas on Department handled water-logging. In its preparedness, before the Ashghal took measures to ensure Ambassador Donald Booth. They discussed relations between Qatar March 7, 8 and 9 were tackled in According to the statement, much onset of the rains, Ashghal had put its faster pumping of rainwater overflow,” and the US and the peace process in Darfur. a record time. The Public Works of the problem was reported from teams on an emergency alert, accord- the authority said. Ashghal rushed Authority said in a statement yes- Abu Hamour, Ain Khaled, Bu Sidra, ing to the statement to ensure that as water suction tankers to Al Nasr, Raw- terday that during the three days of Al Gharrafa and Al Kharaitiyat. soon as requests came in for interven- dat Al Khail, Barwa City, Corniche, Al Qatar-Algeria cooperation reviewed rains, it received requests to clear Ashghal continued to monitor the tion in the event of rainwater overflow Obaidly Roundabout, F-Ring Road, rainwater overflow and logging main roads and subways across the and logging, water pumping teams D-Ring Road and Regency traffic ALGIERS: Algerian Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and from at least 130 places. country and quickly deployed tankers with equipment could be rushed to intersection, Qatar Sports Club area, Fisheries Sid Ahmed Ferroukhi yesterday met Qatari Ambassador to Most of the water-logging and machinery to pump out overflow- the spots. Fire Station Roundabout and Al Wabb, the country Ibrahim bin Abdulaziz Al Sahlawi. They reviewed coop- was in areas in the municipali- ing and logged water. “For areas that lack infrastructure, among others. eration between the two fraternal countries and means of boosting it. ties of Doha, Al Rayyan and Umm Salal, and Ashghal’s Drainage Net- works Operation and Maintenance RAF begins ‘Save a Life Initiative’ in Sudan

By Sanaullah Ataullah The Peninsula

DOHA: Sheikh Thani Bin Abdullah Foundation for Humanitarian Serv- ices (RAF) has launched an innovative and world-first strategy for sustain- able humanitarian services. The ‘Save a Life Initiative’ (SALI) will provide urgent primary health care and medical services to vul- nerable communities in countries, where citizens often cannot access basic healthcare due to unrest or lack of resources. Initially, SALI is being piloted on Dr David H Dombkins (right), Chairman, ‘Complex Program Group, many humanitarian health projects with Mehdi bin M’rad, Director, International Cooperation, RAF, at the in Sudan, across Kassala, Khartoum, RAF headquarters. White Nile and South Darfur. These cover important health issues such as malnutrition, primary infrastructure and public services.” local partner for its pilot projects in healthcare, breast cancer and renal The projects will start as PNPs, the country and is providing training failures. with the government gradually to PHF in improving how it manages Details about the initiative were accepting increased responsibility and delivers projects”, he added. given by Dr David H Dombkins, for funding the projects. The pilot projects will be deliv- Chairman, ‘Complex Program Group Later, the projects will transfer ered using a PNP-strategy, with (Middle East) LLC’, which is RAF’s into full PPPs when local government RAF and partners funding the ini- strategic partner for the initiative. and NGO partners have developed tial equipment, training, medical staff Dr Dombkins is a leading glo- necessary competencies. The pur- and technicians — such as mobile bal expert on PPPs, complex pose of this approach is to make the health clinics and teams, machines project management and capabil- humanitarian projects more finan- for kidney dialysis and tissue match- ity development. “SALI projects are cially sustainable, with less long-term ing, fortified nutrition and feeding implemented in collaboration with dependence on foreign aid and pro- stations, and supporting facilities. local government and communi- vide greater focus on encouraging Each project will be linked with ties using Public-NGO Partnerships local development. Khartoum University of Medical Sci- (PNPs) — a new form of public-pri- “RAF plans to go beyond routine ence & Technology to support applied vate partnerships (PPPs) for the charity works and has approached local research. humanitarian sector,” he said. local governments to make a real The projects are also integrated “PPPs are a procurement strat- partnership,” said Dr Dombkins. and aligned with local governmen- egy being used in over 130 countries “RAF has selected the Sudan NGO tal policies, community leaders and worldwide to delivery major ‘Patient Helping Fund’ (PHF) as its other Raf projects.

Kahramaa ties up with QTA and UDC for Earth Hour

QNA day from 8.30pm to 9.30pm. The campaign aims to raise awareness about the importance of turning off lights for one hour to observe ‘Earth Hour’ and joining world com- munities to protect the environment. DOHA: Qatar General Electricity & Water Corpora- This year’s collaboration between Kahramaa and tion (Kahramaa) represented in National Programme partners touches all hotels through the role of QTA and for Conservation and Energy Efficiency — Tarsheed, has Pearl-Qatar’s residential and commercial properties gov- collaborated with Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA) and erned by UDC. United Development Company (UDC) for its campaign Kahramaa has called upon all sectors to switch off ‘Gift Earth One Hour’ to observe Earth Hour on Satur- power in solidarity with the movement. 04 WEDNESDAY 16 MARCH 2016 HOME

The Peninsula Editor-in-Chief meets US Press Attache 60 complaints against telecom firms in 4 days

The Peninsula

DOHA: The Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA) said yes- terday it received over 60 complaints against the country’s telecom service providers during four days’ of a con- sumer contact programme. The programme was held at the City Centre mall where the CRA set up a booth from Saturday until yesterday to mark March 15 as the World Human Rights Day. The day is observed to promote the basic rights of all consumers. A CRA release said that among Minister of Transport and Communications H E Jassim bin Saif Al Sulaiti the more than 60 consumer com- visiting a booth the CRA set up from March 12 until yesterday at City plaints were several about billing, Center to mark March 15 as World Consumer Rights Day. Dr Khalid Al-Shafi, Editor-in-Chief, The Peninsula, yesterday met Sacha Fraiture, Press Attache, US network coverage, roaming charges, embassy, at the newspaper’s office and discussed cooperation. Fraiture praised the newspaper’s service discontinuations, spam, content, coverage and the new design. Pic: Baher Amin / The Peninsula premium services and delays in to enhance consumer awareness. The aim of setting up the booth activation and installation. “These “CRA encourages all consumers was to help the mall visitors better complaints will be looked into and to reach out to it if their complaints understand their rights as consum- investigated as per CRA’s complaint- lodged with the service providers ers and CRA’s consumer protection handling process,” said the CRA remain unresolved,” CRA said. initiatives and processes. release. The CRA is easily accessible The Minister was accompanied Ooredoo revamps Mobile Broadband packs With an estimated 50,000 vis- through a dedicated consumer tele- by Mohamed Ali Al Mannai, Presi- itors on weekends and 40,000 on com hotline (103). The CRA’s official dent of the CRA, for a familiarisation weekdays, the CRA was able to twitter account is @CRAqatar or it tour conducted by Amel Salam Al The Peninsula such as smartphones, tablets, lap- Communications Regulatory engage a larger number of nation- can also be reached via email: con- Hanawi, Manager, Consumer Affairs tops and more. Authority in 2014, all segments of als and expatriates at the City Centre [email protected] Department, CRA. Al Hanawi briefed With the new plans, Ooredoo the country’s population have access face-to-face. According to the CRA release, the Minister on the CRA’s consumer will give customers the option to to an Internet-enabled device, and The CRA’s consumer affairs Minister of Transport and Communi- protection initiatives, public services DOHA: Ooredoo has introduced purchase or upgrade their packs to the new packs will give more viable department is planning more such cations H E Jassim bin Seif Al Sulaiti, and the upcoming codes on spam and three new packs for its popular 10GB, 15GB or 40GB per month, on options to the diverse population, engagements and outreach activities visited its booth yesterday. premium rate services. Mobile Broadband (MBB) plans for top of the current 5GB, 25GB and enabling more people to enjoy the post-paid customers, as the com- unlimited pack already accessible. life- enhancing benefits the Inter- pany continues to increase the The new packs, which will allow net can bring. options data options users can sub- customers to enjoy unprecedented To purchase a Mobile Broadband scribe to. access to the newly extended 4G+ pack, customers can buy an Oore- Qatar University outlines new policies Mobile Broadband is Ooredoo’s Supernet network, with more data doo MBB SIM through an Ooredoo data-only service that provides choice, have been designed to cater Shop, via Ooredoo’s eShop, or at any customers with direct, high-speed for the growing demand for data of the Premium Dealers for a one- The Peninsula the summer term and one access to the Internet. options in Qatar. time fee of QR50. To find out more, academic semester in Fall It can also be used with devices According to Qatar’s visit Ooredoo.qa for internships. DOHA: Qatar University (QU) yesterday The first two summer outlined the new policies related to admis- semesters will start on sion, summer courses and readmission for June 26 and end on July 28 undergraduate students. (1st semester) and August The minimum high school percentage 11 (2nd semester), while of admission requirements for all colleges the third semester starts is 70 percent, except for the colleges of on July 31 and ends on Medicine and Pharmacy which will require August 25. “The new aca- 85 percent and 80 percent, respectively. demic calendar provides The new policies for admission and students the opportunity summer courses were recently reviewed to get 12 credit hours and 4 and approved by QU Board of Regents. courses, instead of 9 credit Dr Khalid Al Khanji (pictured), Vice- hours and 3 courses as per President, Admission and Registration the Foundation Programme are required the previous calendar.” Building for Student Affairs, QU, told a to complete all Foundation requirements He outlined the new press conference yesterday: “Students will before they can be considered for admis- readmission policy which be directly admitted to the general pro- sion into their intended major,” he said. was established and gramme of the designated college to which QU Board of Regents Secretary Gen- approved by QU Executive they have applied. At a later stage, majors eral Dr Ibrahim Abdulla Al Ansari was also Management Committee will be determined based on college present at the press conference. (EMC). It defines rules and admission capacity and student compe- Al-Khanji noted that the Board regulations for allowing tition in accordance with the set criteria of established a new academic calendar academically dismissed each programme. Students admitted into comprising three academic semesters in or withdrawn students resume their studies at the university. He said students who are dismissed or have withdrawn from the institution may apply for readmission. “Applicants may seek readmission after complet- ing a minimum suspension period of one regular semester, excluding sum- mer,” he said, noting that students will only be readmitted once. He said readmitted students may return to the college in which they were declared at the time of academic withdrawal, or may be transferred to a differ- ent college as part of their readmission. “Applicants seeking readmission after with- drawal may keep their cumulative GPA earned prior to academic with- drawal, including the courses taken within the last 10 years. Hence, they can remove 4 courses or one semester from their academic records. This policy is limited to with- drawn students only.” He further noted that readmitted students who were academically dis- missed or withdrawn may apply to transfer the courses taken within the last 5 years, and in which they achieved a score of C and above in each course, given that these courses do not exceed 50 percent of their study plan.

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The New York Times Art for Region ‘rich in its cultural offerings’ Tomorrow conference ends

The Peninsula examples of how urban landscapes are The Peninsula evolving ambitiously within existing city H E Sheikha Al Mayassa frameworks, including in Doha. bint Hamad bin Khalifa “In Jeddah, the now annual fixture of DOHA: H E Sheikha Al Mayassa bint the Jeddah Art week hosts a number of DOHA: The second edition The New York Times Art Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Chairper- Al Thani, Chairperson, contemporary art shows, exhibitions and for Tomorrow conference concluded yesterday at W son, Qatar Museums, hosted on Monday Qatar Museums, hosts visits to heritage houses. In Dubai the Al Doha Hotel & Residences. a gala dinner at the new headquarters of Serkal Avenue is an initiative that con- With the theme ‘Technology, Creativity and the Qatar Foundation (QF), the force behind gala dinner at new Qatar verts old warehouses into destinations City’, the conference explored the relationship between the establishment of Education City. Foundation HQ, attended of art and design. the digital world and the creative process, the nature Coinciding with The New York Times “The Ashti Foundation in Lebanon of creativity and its impact on developing cities and ‘Art For Tomorrow; conference, the dinner by the world’s leading also provides a number of activities nations, and whether physical institutions housing art welcomed some of the world’s lead- artists, curators, art supporting artists from the region and have a role to play in the era of digitisation. ing artists, curators, art collectors and collectors and museum connecting the region to the rest of the Among the speakers were Qatar Museums Chair- museum directors. world. In Doha, both the recent conver- H E Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad person H E Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin The new headquarters, which were directors. sion of the fire station into an artist in bin Khalifa Al Thani, Chairperson, Khalifa Al Thani, artists Marina Abramović and Jeff designed by renowned Dutch architect residence programme and our jury com- Qatar Museums, speaking at the event. Koons and architects Koray Duman and William Lim. Rem Koolhaas, sit at the heart of one petition to convert the flour mills into a (BELOW) Some of the guests at the “We’re trying to bring contemporary artists here, to of the most creative hubs in the city of new museum are underway,” H E Sheikha event. inspire young artists to see what’s happening around Doha, and use technology to enhance the landscape. Speaking at the gala dinner, H Al Mayassa said. the world, and to be inspired… That’s what we’ve tried learning experience in a unique urban E Sheikha Al Mayassa described different She added: “The region is rich in its to do and will continue to do, with complete respect cultural offerings. There are so many to our tradition,” said Sheikha Al Mayassa. places to visit, from archeological sites “We need art in the cities. In the cities that pollute. to new buildings in Saudi Arabia, Oman, In the cities that have too much noise. We have to take Kuwait, Bahrain and the UAE. experience from nature and transmit it into the cities. “Moreover, major events are taking I always believe that the function of art is the function place in the next decade, from the Expo in of a bridge; to bridge different people from different Dubai in 2020 to the World Cup in Doha in social background, different religious beliefs, differ- 2022. Contemporary times are therefore ent races. But it’s also about communication between embedded into our regional narratives.” the physical world and spiritual world. Or just simply The gala dinner took place on the between two human beings,” said Abramović. penultimate day of The New York Times An addition to the conference was The Art Lab, a “Art for Tomorrow” conference which pop-up gallery on the 29th floor of W Doha. Works saw more than 300 delegates from the from Prince Nikolaos of Greece and Denmark, arts, public and private sectors, tourism PiaMYrvoLD, Androulla Michael, Google Cultural experts, city planners and business devel- Institute, Laurence Winram, Omar Khalifa, Sheikh opers from 28 countries. Hassan Al Thani and Ali Hossaini were on display.

French-Syrian lensman opens expo Six cars deployed for training at mini-school

Continued from page 1

Six cars have been deployed for training purposes at the mini-school and one of them is for people with spe- cial needs. Obviously, the free tips in driving are only for people aged 18 and above, said Aqueel. Many visitors have liked the idea and said they saw such hypothetical accidents through special glasses offered by Dalla Academy. They lauded the tips. Prac- tical tips are also being provided for L and parking. The Traffic Department (Khalifa Traffic City) is participating in the 32nd GCC Traffic Week and they are focusing on youngsters aged 14 and below to help increase traffic awareness among them through lectures as also some practical to show traffic rules. The Week opened three days ago. Khalifa Traffic City received yesterday morning students from 22 schools and the day before from 19 schools. Every school brought a maximum of 41 students on average and 17 at the minimum and the students also A traffic patrol car fitted with the mobile ‘smart included those with special needs, a supervisor at Kha- radar’. lifa Traffic City’s pavilion told this newspaper. A the pavilion of the Management of Engineering and Traffic Safety is displaying many new and modern catch violations and recognise car number. It can also radars, both fixed and mobile, to detect speed-related do face recognition in case of a crime using a car on violations. the road. Prominent French-Syrian photojournalist Ammar Abd Rabbo (right) with French Ambassador Eric One of the mobile radars is a smart patrol radar. It But this service (face recognition) is not yet activated, Chevallier at the opening of his solo exhibition ‘Alep… À Elles, Eux, Paix Exhibition’ at Katara Building has been installed since the past one year by the traffic because the department is not interested. No. 22 yesterday. Pic: Baher / The Peninsula department on its patrols. “We are using it only as radar and for traffic viola- This radar has six cameras fitted in it and they can tions,” said the official. Sidra to open outpatient clinic on May 1

The peninsula of three clinics — dermatology, paediatric gen- and research centre. Our goal is to provide eral surgery consultation and obstetrics. patient-centered clinical care, conduct pioneer- The clinics will be supported by radiology, ing research and to educate and train future pathology, pharmacy and laboratory facilities. healthcare professionals,” said the Professor DOHA: Sidra Medical and Research Center Patients requiring consultation at the three clin- Lord Darzi of Denham, Vice-Chairman of the (Sidra) has announced the phased opening of ics will be referred to Sidra by their existing centre. its Outpatient Clinic on May 1. primary or secondary healthcare doctor. As “Our team has worked incredibly hard and With a strong patient and family-centred it is referral based, the Sidra Outpatient Clinic has been collaborating closely with Hamad focus, the clinic will be a high-tech facility to will not offer emergency services. Medical Corporation in preparing for the open- enhance patient care, promote efficiency and “The opening of the clinic is an important ing of the clinic. Every aspect of the services ensure safety. Led by a team of specialised doc- first step in the phased opening of the centre. and technology at the clinic will be centred on tors, nurses and allied health professionals, This marks the beginning of our journey to patient safety and enhancing the patient expe- services at the clinic will start with the launch establish Sidra as a state-of-the-art hospital rience,” continued Lord Darzi. Ooredoo unveils new website for better customer experience

The Peninsula to make, from changing plans numbers, accessories, and plans. to subscribing to new serv- The new Ooredoo eShop ices, viewing and paying bills, enables customers to find their redeeming Nojoom points or fil- perfect phone by using filters, a DOHA: Ooredoo has announced ing a complaint. phone comparison feature and a the launch of its new, redesigned Fatima Sultan Al Kuwari, simpler checkout process. website www.ooredoo.qa, pro- Director, Community and Public Key features of the website viding a more engaging user Relations, Ooredoo, said: “We’re include centralised troubleshoot- experience with a cleaner, more excited about the new website ing guides and FAQs, enabling attractive design. designed to provide a more cus- customers to easily search for The site’s refreshed and sim- tomer-centric experience and solutions and find answers, and plified look, combined with a simplified platform that will a new promotions page contain- improved content and cleaner make it easier to complete daily ing the latest and greatest offers search options, boasts a mod- transactions online. available from Ooredoo. ern design that makes it easier “We’ve also optimised the This is the latest in a series for customers to interact with website’s look for mobile devices of enhancements and revamps Ooredoo online. to ensure uninterrupted access to launched, as the company looks With new quick action but- customers.” to provide an enhanced customer tons added to the home page, The revamped website offers experience for everyone. consumer and business cus- a new online shopping experi- To check out the redesigned tomers now have total control ence that lets customers purchase website, please go to www.oore- over the transactions they wish new devices, easy-to-remember doo.qa. HOME WEDNESDAY 16 MARCH 2016 07 QA chief highlights ‘Creative Airport’

Akbar Al Baker speaks about Qatar Airways’ hub — Hamad International Airport — at New York Times ‘Art for Tomorrow’ Visitors at Qatar Airways’ stand at the event. conference. Qatar Airways concludes successful participation at ITB Berlin The Peninsula

The Peninsula and the public continues to respond DOHA: Akbar Al Baker, Chief to our extraordinary service. Executive, Qatar Airways (QA) “Two years ago, we predicted we Group, highlighted the importance would grow to 170 destinations, and of art and its influence through- DOHA: Qatar Airways (QA) con- we are on track. Every employee of out the development phases of the cluded a successful appearance at the airline has the same mission: To carrier’s hub Hamad International H E Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Chairperson, Qatar Museums, and other guests the world’s largest travel and tour- serve our passengers with extraor- Airport (HIA), at the second edition ism fair, ITB Berlin, having made a dinary service so they continue to of the annual New York Times ‘Art attending the panel discussion at 2016 New York Times Art for Tomorrow conference. (BELOW) Akbar Al significant network announcement choose QA, and tell their friends and for Tomorrow’ conference. Baker, Chief Executive, QA Group, speaking about unique features and aspects at Hamad International Airport. while debuting its new cutting-edge family to choose us. He shared the creative vision technology exhibition stand to hun- “With our ever-growing route and importance of the iconic art dreds of travel professionals from network, we are making it easy for pieces selected and positioned upcoming phases. around the world. friends and family to connect and across nodes and concourses of The airport’s main archi- On the first day of ITB, QA hosted explore new places for business or the airport. “Introducing an air- tectural and design firm, Foster a capacity crowd of over 200 inter- pleasure. We want our passengers port as a destination location + Partners, took the audience national journalists and announced to have wonderful journeys and we required significant design detail through the main scope of the network expansion. It will soon serve want to go more places together with and influence. The vision of the project and how harmony and five new cities in Europe — Pisa them.” airport was to make the experi- symmetry was layered uniformly (Italy); Sarajevo (Bosnia); Helsinki QA also unveiled a new exhibi- ence like no other; comfortable, throughout all passenger offerings. (Finland); Skopje (Macedonia); and tion stand at ITB Berlin, offering the desirable and memorable. An Art and architectural features Nice (France). signature elements travel and tour- important element of this was have been a hallmark since the QA will also add six new destina- ism professionals want to see and introducing art and design.” opening of the airport, providing tions in Africa: Marrakech (Morocco); experience, such as Business Class Open for nearly two years, HIA passengers with an ambiance of Windhoek (Namibia); Seychelles and First Class seat displays and has 41 contact gates in operation, aesthetically pleasing, inspiring, (Indian Ocean); Douala (Cameroon); new features, including an interac- more than 40,000 square metres functional spaces for quietude, Libreville (Gabon); and Lusaka tive global route network display and of retail and food and beverage rest, shopping, dining and busi- (Zambia) and three new destinations a holographic A350 model control- spaces, an in-terminal 100-room ness purposes. in Asia and the South West Pacific: led through with ‘swipe’ or ‘gesture’ hotel, 25-metre swimming pool, Al Baker said: “QA’s hub is Auckland (New Zealand); and Krabi technology. This is the first known squash courts, fitness and spa designed with all of our passen- and Chiang Mai (Thailand). use of both technologies together by facilities, luxury shopping oppor- gers in mind, whether travelling Akbar Al Baker, Group Chief an airline. tunities, Qatar Duty Free brands short-haul, with a brief connec- Executive, QA, said: “QA continues to Al Baker hosted dignitaries, offi- and much more. tion time, medium or long-haul. be the fastest-growing airline in the cials and visitors at the stand for The presentation at the confer- Not only is the airport filled with advanced and with an intuitive design.” of the departures terminal, anchoring all history of aviation, a distinction we meetings, closed door discussions ence at W Hotel in Doha centred art elements, we have also paid An iconic element of HIA is the concourses and food and beverage out- wear proudly. We continue to con- and hands-on demonstrations of QA around the sculptures, paintings attention to make it a highly con- highly acclaimed sculpture Lamp Bear lets. It has been in HIA since the opening nect the world, one flight at a time, seats on display. and design of the existing and venient airport, technologically by Urs Fischer positioned in the centre in April 2014.

MINISTRY OF PUBLIC HEALTH Don’t let your laziness paralyze your life The choice is yours Get active www.moph.qa 08 WEDNESDAY 16 MARCH 2016 HOME

Sheikha Mayassa to inaugurate eighth Empower Youth Conference tomorrow Free medical camp for workers

The Peninsula will be held for participants to learn communicable diseases because the about the concepts of crowd fund- rate of incidence is very low in Qatar ing, innovation in product creation, Ministry of Public compared to other countries. That is DOHA: The eighth Empower Youth entrepreneurship and the power Health to hold camp one reason we are focusing on life- Conference organised by Reach Out of social networking, among other in Messaied on Friday style diseases,” he added. To Asia (ROTA) opens tomorrow topics. The camp will be held in coop- at Hamad Bin Khalifa University On the third day, participants for about 500 low- eration with Hamad Medical (HBKU) Student Centre. will be given a tour of some of Qatar income workers. Corporation, V care, Boom Construc- H E Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Foundation’s academic institutions, tion, WellCare drugs group, Indian Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Chair- including Carnegie Mellon University Doctors Club, Forum for Indian phys- person, ROTA, will inaugurate the in Qatar, where they will have the iotherapist in Qatar, companies, conference which will be held under opportunity to practice the knowl- By Fazeena Saleem institutions and the private sector. the theme ‘Innovation in Youth edge and skills acquired during The Peninsula It will be held at a labour camp Social Entrepreneurship.’ the workshops. They will also visit with around 2,500 workers of Boom Minister of Economy and Com- Qatar Incubation Business Center construction company in Messaied. merce H E Sheikh Ahmed bin and Qatar Scientific Club, and will A doctor will make pre-registra- Jassim Al Thani, ROTA Board Mem- participate in a set of activities DOHA: A free medical camp by the tion of 500 workers based on their ber Dr Sheikha Aisha bint Faleh bin facilitated by the United Nations Ministry of Public Health will bene- age and medical history. They will Nasser Al Thani and ROTA Execu- Development Program (UNDP) at fit over 500 low-income workers on undergo tests such as clinical exam- tive Director Essa Al Mannai will be the HBKU Student Centre. Friday. ination, measurements of blood among the attendees at the open- The conference will serve as a The camp will be held as part of Dr Sheikh Mohammed Al Thani, Director, Public Health, at the Ministry pressure and sugar levels, choles- ing ceremony. discussion forum, where participants the ‘Workplace health promotion,’ of Public Health, addressing a press conference. terol, BMI, evaluation and treatment The three-day event will be will be asked to devise solutions to which aims to protect and pro- Pic: Baher / The Peninsula by physiotherapists. attended by over 450 local and inter- increase the contribution of youth mote workers’ health, well-being All medicines will be given free national youth aged 17-30 years. It in achieving the United Nations Sus- and safety. It also aim to promote and workers can refill their prescrip- will raise awareness of opportu- tainable Development Goals (SDGs) awareness about the need to adopt Messaied. “We care about the work- has a low rate of workplace injuries tions at WellCare group pharmacies. nities and challenges relating to and Qatar National Vision 2030, healthy lifestyles and educate par- ers in the country and the camp will and communicable diseases. Lectures on health, educational entrepreneurship amongst Qatar’s using the youth social entrepreneur- ticipants on how to avoid accidents focus on non-communicable diseases “A study suggests that work programmes to encourage healthy young population, and will include ship business methodology. in the workplace. and help increase their knowledge on environment in Qatar is safer than lifestyle, wellness, basic life support, a combination of seminar panel ROTA has partnered with Qatar Free medical tests, health better lifestyle and workplace safety,” workers’ countries. Average life CPR training and how to prevent acci- discussions, keynote speeches, exhi- Charity (humanitarian partner), the education and consultation by oph- Dr Sheikh Mohamed Al Thani, Direc- expectancy of workers in Qatar is dents at work place will be held. bition spaces and group workshops. Qatar Financial Centre (private sec- thalmologists, ENT specialists, tor of Public Health at the ministry, remarkably high compared to their Some 30 doctors, 25-30 nurses Over the first and the second tor partner), and the Qatar National dermatologists, dentists, physio- told a press conference. country of origin due to medical facil- and other staff, 150 volunteers and day of the conference, 48 work- Convention Centre (hospitality part- therapists and nutritionists will be He said the focus is on non-com- ities provided for workers here,” said 20 physiotherapists will take part in shops and two panel discussions ner) to sponsor EMPOWER 2016. provided for workers at the camp in municable diseases because Qatar Dr Al Thani. “We are not focusing on the event. 21 eye Unlimited Doha Design Prize International Food Festival sees 20% rise in participating hotels

By Raynald C Rivera The Peninsula The Peninsula of the local food and beverage (F&B) scene,” said Andreas Pfister, General Manager of InterContinental Doha and Area General Manager of Inter- DOHA: Twenty-one contestants DOHA: This year’s Qatar Interna- Continental Hotels Group in Qatar. from Qatar, the GCC and UK will tional Food Festival (QIFF) saw a “We have especially designed take a weeklong residency as they 20 percent increase in the number the concept at our QIFF tent in order compete for the Unlimited Doha of participating hotels, organizers to offer Qatar residents and visitors Design Prize to take place from Fri- Qatar Tourism Authority and Qatar to the Festival a genuinely unique day to March 26. Airways have announced. and authentic experience.” British Council Qatar announced A total of 24 hotels have already QTA has also been working at a press conference yesterday it has confirmed participation in the festi- with investors to diversify Qatar’s finalised the shortlist for the Unlim- val, organizers said yesterday. hospitality portfolio and ensure ited Doha Design Prize, which is “The growing participation of its sustainability, by licensing an being held under the patronage of hotels in this year’s QIFF reflects increasing number of three- and H E Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad the growth in Qatar’s thriving hos- four-star hotels, as well as hotel bin Khalifa Al Thani, Chairperson of pitality sector, which welcomed an apartments. Qatar Museums, in partnership with additional 20 establishments to its “It is an opportunity and a priv- the Supreme Committee for Deliv- ranks in 2015 alone,” said Mashal ilege for us to be part of this year’s ery & Legacy (SC). Shahbik, Director of Festivals and Festival. The 21 shortlisted competitors, Tourism Events at QTA. “We have always been a keen who will work in teams, was cho- “We are proud to work with our supporter of the initiatives of QTA sen more than 60 submissions. They Officials at the press conference. Pic: Kammutty / The Peninsula partners to share the wide range in its efforts to promote the culture comprise five from Qatar, six from of gourmet food options available and diversity of Qatar. Our partic- the GCC and 10 from UK who are across Qatar’s hotels with visitors ipation in QIFF is one of our many developing their design concepts ensuring that buildings and public disability/inclusion strategy in the “The Unlimited Doha Design at this exciting festival.” ways to further uphold the tourism and going through various educa- realms are accessible to all,” said Gulf. Prize will help us look into the dis- The hotel establishments will be industry and in this year’s QIFF edi- tional activities, before their final Fitzpatrick. “We started it in 2013, followed tinctive quality from the various among the 130 restaurants, eateries tion, we will be introducing Meesh submission of drawings, models, “They will work in teams to up with a conference and this architects and designers from the and food entrepreneurs set to par- Me – Time Café, a unique coffee photographs, films or documents. research and explore the theme project. We need to spread aware- region as well as from the UK. ticipate in the weeklong culinary shop concept appearing for the first Frank Fitzpatrick, British of ‘The Open City’ and develop ness on inclusive design. This is just “We will identify the type of ori- celebration. Seasoned chefs will be time in Qatar,” said Savino Leone, Council Director, said the levels new ideas and innovative design one step towards an inclusive soci- entation and training needed for our offering fine dining opportunities Crowne Plaza General Manager. of innovation and creativity in the solutions that will improve the expe- ety and we hope it continues.” national architects to excel in their to festival visitors at prices between This year’s Festival promises submissions reflected the dynamic rience of movement and accessibility Abdulla Al Kaarani, Director, work. QR5 and QR35. to be the biggest yet with two new architecture sector in the Gulf region in the 21st century city,” Fitzpatrick Urban Planning Department Direc- “The week-long residency is a “InterContinental Hotel Group satellite venues, The Pearl-Qatar in general and Qatar in particular. added. tor, Ministry of Municipality and creative idea to encourage the youth Qatar is delighted to be able to and Katara Cultural Village, join- “The event is focussed on mobil- Dr Waseem Kotoub, British Environment, said: “Our responsibil- to innovate for Qatar,” he added. present some of the best culinary ing the fun activities and tantalizing ity within the city, and in particular Council, Head of Arts and Creativ- ity is to align the undergoing projects The winning team will be offerings in Qatar at the QIFF, and attractions at the main festival on how designers can improve the ity, said, “From arts perspective, happening in Doha with our com- awarded a grant of £15,000 to fur- to continue our collaboration with location in the Museum of Islamic experience of movement, thereby this project responds to arts and prehensive urban plan. ther develop the project proposal. QTA in the successful development Art Park.

Illegal trading Malabar Gold & Diamonds begins new campaign

The peninsula by paying only making charges so that they don’t lose any value on the rate of gold. Furthermore, 8grammes 22ct gold coins can be bought from the retailer’s outlets with no mak- DOHA: Malabar Gold & Diamonds, the prominent ing charge during the festival. jewellery retailer has unfurled details of its new There won’t be any extra charges if customers campaign in Qatar. making payments through credit cards. The festival from today until May 14 will dis- Keeping up with demand, the jewellery chain play distinctive pieces of jewellery from across the offers a fabulous collection of gold, diamond and world, with massive gifts and irresistible offers. platinum jewellery to suit the tastes of resident and The much-awaited campaign is one of the international customers, skilfully crafted by spe- biggest jewellery events in Qatar and customers cialists from Italy, Singapore, Turkey, Bahrain and get unprecedented opportunities to win a total of India. QR1.5m worth gold coins. This is in addition to the exclusive branded jew- A true shopper’s delight, the festival will capti- ellery — Mine - Diamonds Unlimited; Era - Uncut vate customers by exhibiting eye-catching designs Diamond Jewellery; Ethnix - Handcrafted Designer in gold, platinum, diamonds and precious stones Jewellery; Divine - Indian Heritage Jewellery; Precia from different parts of the world to flaunt any occa- - Precious Gem Jewellery; and the unique jewel- sion or event and are well priced. lery for kids - Starlet. For every purchase of gold or diamond jewel- The retailer has outlets in Doha, Al Gharafa, Al lery worth QR2,000, the customer gets a ‘Scratch themselves from the increasing gold rate. By only Khor Mall, Grand Mall, Barwa Village and D-Ring & Win’ coupon and can win a guaranteed gold coin paying 10 percent of the value they can get the gold Road. An environment patrol of the Ministry of Municipality and or up to 250 gold coins instantly. rate protection until May 14. Malabar Gold & Diamonds, one of the larg- Environment caught a man trading in endangered animals and With every diamond jewellery purchase, the To add customers’ delight, the retailer also est jewellery retailers, sets a wonderful example said he was trying to sell a chimpanzee and was handed over customer gets a ‘Scratch & Win’ coupon for a guar- offers ‘Zero Deduction Exchange’ through which for corporate philanthropy through charity pro- to security agencies. The ministry said some people are raising anteed cash refund and gets a chance to win up to customers can update their old ornaments to the grammes in India, the Middle East and Far East. predators for sale or entertainment and show them in public areas 100 percent cashback. latest collection of Malabar Gold & Diamonds with- The group has over 145 showrooms and and urged the public to respect the law protecting animals and Customers who buy diamond jewellery worth out any loss. undertakes welfare activities in the areas of their birds and the ban on their sale. QR2,000 or above are eligible to get both coupons. Any 22ct old gold ornaments can be exchanged operations by associating with like-minded organ- Customers also get a fabulous chance to protect with the latest Malabar Gold & Diamonds designs isations and associations. HOME WEDNESDAY 16 MARCH 2016 09

Rights panel honours three winners of martyr Habitat contest in quiz show-style Ali Hassan Al Jabir awards The Peninsula

The Peninsula “I would like to advantage of DOHA: Students will compete in a live quiz show- this occasion to remind you about style competition focusing on Qatar’s habitat at the the challenges facing the media Qatar e-Nature Schools Contest organized by Sasol in general and the media in the and Friends of the Environment Centre (FEC) and DOHA: The National Human Rights Arab region, in particular. When the Ministry of Education and Higher Education. Committee (NHRC) yesterday hon- national human rights committees The contest which in its third year will crown oured three winners of the Fifth defend journalists, they are actually champions and a winning school. The quiz show Edition of the martyr Ali Hassan Al defending the frontline for defending will be based on the information provided in Jabir awards. human rights, because journalists the Qatar e-Nature smartphone application and The contestants competed for are the watchdogs and they dis- website, in order to increase awareness about the the award in three categories for a close the wrongdoings anywhere in diversity of Qatar’s natural habitat. The live rounds collective cash prize of US $20,000. the world,” said Dr Mustafa Sawak, will take place during the month of April and the The winners were announced in Director-General of Al Jazeera Finals and award ceremony will occur in May, the three categories, namely, of Network. where the winners will be recognized. press photography, investigative “We are doing our best to The announcement was made during a session reporting, and short documentary enhance media freedom, and pro- with teachers at the Friends of the Environment film-making. tect journalists, and currently we Centre Green Tent in Doha. Officials at the event. According to a press statement are finalizing Doha Declaration on The 2016 competition will introduce the new issued by the media office of the protection of journalists which will element of a real-time quiz contest in front of a NHRC, Ahmed Samer Al Baz, a Pal- become the international document live audience, in which teams answer questions and will continue through 31 March. Ventures, said: “Over the past two years, the Qatar estinian from Ramallah, won the for protection of media personalities. in order to gain points. Winning teams in the early Rima Abu Khadija, Director, Office of Curricula e-Nature Schools Contest has been organized with prize for press photography, while The declaration will be made dur- rounds will go on to compete in the finals which Standards at the Ministry of Education and Higher the support of the Ministry of Education and Higher Mohammed Mustafa Al Sawaf, also ing a conference that will kick off will take place in May. Education, said: “ The Qatar e-Nature live quiz Education, engaging over 350 schools and 250,000 from Palestine (from Gaza) was here on March 19, and will host over New questions added to this year’s contest, contest will allow students to actively learn about students across Qatar. This year we decided to adopt selected for the award in the docu- 500 journalists and media corpo- which include the newly added nature reserves of Qatar’s beautiful and diverse wildlife; furthermore, a new approach that will bring Qatar e-Nature, the mentary film category for his short rations from across the world,” said Qatar, in addition to the birds, insects, mammals, it will be the perfect platform that will challenge digital application, to life in a unique and interac- documentary film. Al Sawak. reptiles and flora categories. Moreover, the Qatar our young participants to showcase their abilities tive setting.” For the category of investigative Qatar’s National Human Rights e-Nature application and website have been rede- and further enhance their skills and knowledge.” The user-friendly Qatar e-Nature app is availa- reporting, Mohammed Abu Qamra, Committee launched in march 2011 signed, making it more user-friendly and exciting Frahood Al Hajiri, Director, Friends of the Envi- ble for download free of charge on Apple App Store, also from Gaza in Palestine, was this annual award in memory of Al for the participants use. ronment Centre said: “ We look forward to seeing Google Play store for Android, Windows Phone Store named the winner for his investi- Jabir, an Al Jazeera cameraman who The Qatar e-Nature live quiz contest will be students in action as part of the new direction that and on the website (www.enature.qa) which is also gative work. was martyred in Libya, and insti- held across all primary schools in Qatar. Teams of the Qatar e-Nature schools contest is taking this available for desktop access. Active Facebook, Twit- The NHRC was keen to make tuted the award in the name of the three will be formed from each school; the teams year. Moreover, with the support of the Ministry of ter and Instagram channels allow users to keep tabs sure that the honouring ceremony martyr Ali Hassan Al Jabir, honor- will have one student from years 4, 5 and 6 repre- Education and Higher Education, Qatar e-Nature, on the latest developments. of the award winners coincided with ing him and to shed light on the role senting their respective school. has managed to further elevate the awareness about The application and website is updated regu- the ‘Arab Human Rights Day’ marked of media personalities and impor- Communication with all primary schools and the different aspects of Qatar’s rich nature.” larly, having added nature reserves earlier this year on March 16 every year, said Dr. Ali tance of their protection. teams selection process began earlier this month Phinda Vilakazi, President of Sasol GTL to further benefit users of the application. bin Smaikh Al Marri, its Chairman, The total amount of the award is in a speech at the ceremony. $20,000. Each winner from the two The theme of this year’s Arab categories, those of press photog- Human Right Day is “ Human Dignity raphy and investigative reporting, For All” since dignity is the umbrella are honored and given 5,000 each QU college and BRC hold high school Medicine Winter Camp for the protection of human rights with a shield. and respecting humans regardless The winner in the short docu- of race, faith, culture and language, mentary film category is awarded The Peninsula Center (BRC) has ended. Al Maha Academy, Doha Academy experiences that addressed a wide Al Marri emphasized. $10,000. The event engaged 25 female stu- and Al Jazeera Academy. It aimed to range of medical and biological top- The committee received many The winning work will be dents from 7 high schools in Qatar attract them to the medical profes- ics such as cellular responses, types nominations for the awards from printed and placed on CDs in order -- Al Wakrah Independent Secondary sion through fun science hands-on of human-borne bacteria, and pro- among the contesters and after a to be presented and distributed in DOHA: A four-week high school School, Al Khor Independent Second- lab experiments and expand their tein detection and analysis. They also thorough review and assessment the ceremony. Al Jazeera’s press Medicine Winter Camp organized by ary School, Al Bayan Independent knowledge on important health and interacted with current CMED stu- selected the winners, who are being statement did mention the issues Qatar University College of Medicine Secondary School, Umm Ayman medical issues. The students par- dents and heard about their academic honored today, said Al Marri. addressed by the winning works. (CMED) and the Biomedical Research Independent Secondary School, ticipated in a number of practical journey and future career aspirations. 10 WEDNESDAY 16 MARCH 2016 GULF / MIDDLE EAST

Iraqi forces brace for Yemeni President in Kuwait battle to retake Mosul from Islamic State

Jubbouri said the timing would hinge on the progress of military operations in the valley of Operation to be conducted in Iraq’s other great river, the Euphrates, where Iraqi stages, says commander. forces have been advancing against the militants after routing them from a provincial capital, Ram- adi, in December. The US-led coalition bombing Islamic State Reuters hopes Mosul will be recaptured this year, dealing a decisive blow to the militant group. But many question whether the Iraqi army, which partially collapsed when the militants overran a third of the MAKHMOUR: Islamic State is retrenching as Iraqi country in June 2014, will be ready in time. forces build up for an operation to retake the north- ern city of Mosul and some local militants desert “NO WAY FOR THEM” the group, the commander in charge of the highly As Iraqi forces push up towards Mosul, Jubbouri anticipated offensive said. said he did not expect to encounter much resist- Thousands of Iraqi troops have deployed to the ance because people in the villages south of the north with heavy weapons in recent weeks, set- city were fed up with the militants and are likely Yemeni President Abdrabuh Mansur Hadi (left) and Emir of Kuwait H H Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah ting up base alongside US forces and troops from to rise up against them. during a welcoming ceremony after Hadi’s arrival at Kuwait International Airport, yesterday. Iraq’s Kurdish autonomous region in Makhmour— Already, Islamic State has withdrawn from a launchpad around 60 kilometres south of Mosul. certain villages, he said: “They have begun to Although he described Islamic State as abandon some areas and concentrate their pres- depleted, Nineveh Operations Commander Major ence near Mosul because they know there is no General Najm Al Jubbouri said jockeying between way for them.” the various forces preparing to take part in the bat- Citing intelligence, Jubbouri said there were 41 dead in coalition raids on Yemen market tle for Mosul benefited the militants. 6,000-8,000 militants in Nineveh province, of “The operation to liberate Nineveh will be done which the majority were local Iraqis motivated in stages,” Jubbouri said, referring to the province less by belief in Islamic State’s ultra-hardline AFP Local officials and tribal sources said the Yemen’s internationally-recognised of which Mosul is capital. “Now we are more or creed than the material benefits of siding with that coalition warplanes carried out sev- government on March 26 last year. less just waiting for the order of the commander the militants. “For that reason, many have begun eral raids on the market in the town of The coalition has said that an inde- in chief to begin the first step.” to leave the organisation and the battlefield. We ADEN: At least 41 Yemeni civilians were Mustabaa. pendent inquiry would examine charges Mosul, home to around two million people know the foreign fighters are the ones who will killed when Saudi-led coalition war- The rebel-run sabanews.net website of possible abuses against civilians in the before it fell to Islamic State during a lightning fight fiercely, and also the Iraqis whose hands are planes hit a market yesterday in the said that the coalition carried out two conflict. offensive in 2014, is by far the biggest city ruled stained with the blood of other Iraqis.” rebel-held northern Hajja province, med- raids targeting the market and a res- A panel of UN experts says the coa- by the jihadist group in either Iraq or Syria. An Iraqi In Mosul itself, Jubbouri expected street fight- ics and tribal sources said. taurant in the area and gave a toll of 65 lition has carried out 119 sorties that offensive to recapture it, backed by air strikes and ing and said the main challenge was the presence An official at a hospital run by Doc- civilians dead and 55 wounded. violated humanitarian law, and called advisors from a US-led coalition, would be the big- of more than one million people who would be tors Without Borders (MSF) said the It quoted an unnamed source as for an international probe. gest counterattack ever mounted against the group. used as human shields by the militants. facility had received the bodies of 41 saying that health facilities in Mustabaa In February, a coalition air strike on Kurdish and Iraqi military sources say the ini- When Islamic State conquered Mosul, many people killed in the raids, along with 35 and the neighbouring town of Abs were a market northeast of rebel-held capital tial move will be westwards from Makhmour to the residents welcomed them as liberators from a people who were wounded. receiving the casualties but were short Sana’a killed at least 30 rebels and civil- town of Qayyara on the Tigris River, which would heavy-handed army, but Jubbouri estimated that A health official in Hajja said the on medical supplies. ians, according to witnesses. sever Islamic State’s main artery between Mosul between 70-75 percent of the population would casualties were civilians and included The coalition launched its campaign It targeted three rebel vehicles as they and territory it controls further south and east. now support the security forces. children, adding that “the toll could rise”. against Iran-backed rebels in support of entered the market. Iranian insurers to compensate women equally in road crashes

Reuters In Iranian law, third party vehicle a man would receive. Smaller pay- insurance is governed by the Quranic ments for women are consistent with concept of “blood money” whereby most schools of Islamic law, though the victim of injury, or their family in this is not specified in core Islamic DUBAI: Iran’s legal vetting body has the case of death, can claim compen- texts. “Our purpose in balancing approved a bill that will see female sation from the perpetrator. women’s and men’s compensation victims of road traffic accidents paid “Once they accept that men and was that relatives should not face the same compensation as men, in a women are equal... in terms of blood problems if a woman who is the small step towards gender equality money when there is a car accident, head of family is killed in an acci- in the conservative Islamic country. that means they have accepted the dent,” IRIB quoted lawmaker Rahim The Third Party Insurance Bill, principle, so that can set a precedent,” Zare as saying. likely to be made law in the coming said Ziba Mir-Hosseini, a professo- The standard “blood money” sum weeks, will bind insurance compa- rial research associate at SOAS, part for men is fixed at 1.5 billion rials nies to compensate victims of road of the University of London. (around $50,000) in case of death, accidents regardless of their gen- “Blood money” settlements can whether deliberate or accidental. der, state broadcaster IRINN said on also be used in cases of deliberate The amount paid for injuries varies Monday. harm in Iran if the victim’s family according to the severity of the injury. The bill was approved by the agrees, and are frequently applied Iran extended full payments to Guardian Council, a 12-member in lieu of the death penalty for mur- non-Muslim men in 1991, but only Islamic body responsible for ensur- der. Women will remain unequal in those who follow recognised religious ing legislation conforms to Shariah such cases, which are not affected by minorities. Unrecognised religious (Islamic) law, which had rejected a the new law. minorities, including Bahais and similar measure passed by parlia- Iranian law states women are atheists, are not entitled to “blood ment in 2008. entitled to only half the compensation money” payments at all.

Red Mona Lisa UAE court tries seven for Hezbollah links

AFP

ABU DHABI: Seven people have gone on trial in the United Arab Emirates on charges of forming a cell linked to Lebanon’s Iran- backed Hezbollah movement, reports said yesterday. The two emirati nationals and five foreigners whose trial began Monday at the state secu- rity court include a UAE police officer accused of providing mil- itary information to Hezbollah, Al Ittihad daily reported. The other emirati defendant allegedly gave the Shia move- ment details of interior ministry officials, it said. An Egyptian woman who worked for an oil company Visitors stand in front of “Mona Lisa Red”, an artwork by Russian is accused of passing infor- artist George Pusenkoff, displayed at Art Dubai yesterday. mation about the sector to Hezbollah. MIDDLE EAST WEDNESDAY 16 MARCH 2016 11 Russian warplanes leave Syria raising peace hopes

and vowed to launch a new offen- Peskov denied that the Kremlin was sive in Syria. Putin said on Monday angered by Assad’s perceived inflex- Russia will keep a that Moscow’s military goal had been ibility. But in February, Russia was contingent at its air “on the whole” completed some five- unusually critical of Assad after he and-a-half months and 9,000 combat vowed in an interview to retake the and naval bases in sorties after the Kremlin launched whole country, saying his stance was Syria and a senior its bombing campaign in support of “not in accord” with Moscow’s diplo- official said strikes Assad. State media broadcast live matic efforts. footage of flag-waving crowds greet- German Foreign Minister Frank- against “terrorists” ing returning pilots at a military base Walter Steinmeier said a Russian would continue. in southwest Russia as a brass band withdrawal “increases the pressure” played. “It is still too early to speak of on Assad to negotiate, while France’s victory over terrorism. The Russian foreign ministry said “anything that air group has a task of continuing helps towards a de-escalation in to strike terrorist targets,” deputy Syria should be encouraged.” AFP defence minister Nikolai Pankov was Moscow has pledged to ratchet quoted as saying by Russian news up its own diplomatic efforts to find a agencies at Moscow’s Hmeimim base political solution to a conflict that has in Syria. The West reacted cautiously, killed more than 270,000 people and MOSCOW: The first of Moscow’s since Moscow is yet to specify a time- displaced millions since March 2011. warplanes landed back in Russia frame for completing the withdrawal The White House said Presi- Russian SU-34 multidimensional bombers taking off from the Syrian Hmeymim airbase, outside Latakia, from Syria yesterday at the start of and a Kremlin official said Russia will dent Barack Obama had spoken to a surprise withdrawal that West- keep advanced air defence systems in Putin following Russia’s announce- yesterday. ern governments hope could boost Syria. Some governments expressed ment, and discussed the “next steps peace talks by pressuring the Damas- hope the Russian move could push required to fully implement the ces- cus regime. Assad to negotiate, but in Geneva sation of hostilities”. UN peace envoy Staffan de both sides remained locked in a bit- But US officials offered a cau- Syrian opposition not against Mistura described the pullout as a ter dispute over his fate. tious initial assessment. “At this point, “significant development” for the The talks opened after a tem- we are going to see how things play negotiations that began in Geneva porary ceasefire between Assad’s out over the next few days,” a senior on Monday in the latest push to end forces and opponents was intro- administration official said. direct talks with government the brutal conflict as it enters its sixth duced on February 27 and has largely The foreign minister of Iran — year. “We hope (this) will have a pos- held, although it does not cover the which controls thousands of troops itive impact on the progress of the Islamic State group and Al Qaeda’s supporting Assad on the ground in Reuters for the first time in what is expected in a clear roadmap for the path negotiations,” he said in a statement. Syrian affiliate the Al Nusra Front. Syria — said Russia’s withdrawal to be a 10-day round of indirect ahead. President Vladimir Putin on De Mistura was expected to hold showed Moscow did not “see an “proximity talks” between the war- De Mistura has said the “prox- Monday ordered the “main part” of his first official meeting with the imminent need (to) resort to force in ring sides. imity” format gives him a lot of Russia’s forces out of the war-torn opposition High Negotiations Com- maintaining the ceasefire”. GENEVA: Syria’s opposition are “not “We are not against direct talks, flexibility to shuttle between the nation, but the Kremlin denied it was mittee (HNC), which has repeatedly Russia began air strikes in Syria against” direct talks with the coun- but you know de Mistura decided two warring parties and to consult trying to pressure its long-time ally said Assad cannot be part of Syria’s in September, a move that helped try’s government, Salim Al Muslat, to start with indirect talks,” Mus- others on the sidelines, but he has President Bashar Al Assad. political future. shore up the regime’s crumbling spokesman for the main Syrian lat said. not said whether either the govern- Russia will, however, keep a con- Damascus sparked Western forces and allowed them to go on opposition alliance in Geneva said He expected de Mistura to ment or the HNC had refused to sit tingent at its air and naval bases in anger by staking out an uncom- the offensive. Russia sent some 50 yesterday. switch to a format of direct talks down with each other. Syria and a senior official said strikes promising stance before the talks, warplanes to carry out thousands of Muslat was speaking shortly at a later stage, but said that would “As long as we have a solution, as against “terrorists” would continue. insisting that discussions on Assad’s strikes across Syria, saying it was tar- before negotiators for the main oppo- be up to de Mistura. The UN medi- long as we have relief for our people One Al Qaeda-linked group removal were a “red line” they would geting “terrorist” groups including IS sition High Negotiations Committee ator has said he plans to have we don’t mind what form the nego- branded the withdrawal a “defeat” not cross. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry militants. met UN mediator Staffan de Mistura three rounds of talks, culminating tiation is,” Muslat said.

Sudan security Jolie visits refugees in Lebanon seizes copies on war’s fifth anniversary of newspaper

AFP to have the chance to go to school and have a Agencies better life,” the actress and activist said. “When I saw her beautiful smile, and her dedicated husband and children looking after BEKAA VALLEY, LEBANON: Hollywood star her, I was in awe of them. They are heroes to KHARTOUM: Sudanese security and UN refugee agency envoy Angelina Jolie me. And I ask myself, what have we come to agents confiscated all copies of the yesterday met Syrian refugee families living when such survivors are made to feel like yesterday’s edition of a newspaper in squalid conditions in Lebanon, on the fifth beggars?” seen as close to the government, its anniversary of the Syrian war. Jolie later visited Beirut “where she met a editor said, the latest such seizure “We should never forget that for all the group of women living in poor conditions, a in a country criticised for media focus on the refugee situation in Europe at this damp collective shelter, that left them and their restrictions. time, the greatest pressure is still being felt in families exposed to sickness,” said the UN High UNHCR special envoy US actress Angelina Jolie with Syrian refugees during her visit to On Monday night, “after the the Middle East and North Africa, as it has for Commissioner for Refugees. a refugee camp near the city of Zahle in Lebanon’s Bekaa Valley, yesterday. printing finished for the Tuesday each of the last five years,” she said. The star, who has visited Syrian refugees edition, members of the security Jolie met Khulud, a 38-year-old mother of in Lebanon before, appealed to governments apparatus came to the printer four now living in a tent in the Bekaa Valley in around the world to step up their assistance to “We must not let fears get the better of us,” around the world to show leadership: to ana- and seized all copies” of Al Sudani eastern Lebanon, who was left paralysed three the nearly five million people who have been she said, noting that tiny Lebanon alone has seen lyse the situation and understand exactly what without giving reasons, the daily’s years ago by a sniper in Syria, according to the forced by war to flee their country. more than one million Syrians flow across the their country can do... to explain this to their chief editor Dia Al din Bilal said. UN refugee agency. Jolie called for “reason and calm and fore- border since war erupted in 2011. “We must not citizens and address fears — based not on emo- Journalists in Sudan complain “Never once during our discussion did she sight” in response to the international migrant let fear stand in the way of an effective response tion but on a measured assessment of what can of harassment from the authorities ask for anything, did she stop smiling, or talk of crisis, which in 2015 saw more than one million that is in our long-term interests,” she said. and must be done to share the responsibility and the country regularly ranks anything other than her desire for her children asylum-seekers reach Europe’s shores. “My plea today is that we need governments and get on top of this situation.” near the bottom of international press freedom indexes. The powerful National Intel- ligence and Security Service often confiscates entire print runs of news- papers over articles that it deems to be offensive, rarely explaining why. Bilal Ankara bomber linked to Syrian Kurdish rebels said the last time his newspaper was seized was five months ago. “We have become more careful about the AFP More violence erupted between After Sunday’s attack, Turkish jets material we publish and despite security forces and PKK militants in carried out retaliatory air strikes on no seizures for five months, it has the main city of Diyarbakir late Mon- PKK camps in northern Iraq. happened again,” he said. day when rebels put up barricades Police have also made 11 arrests ANKARA: Turkey yesterday said a and burned vehicles, security sources in connection with the bombing, with female suicide bomber who killed said, prompting a swift response from Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu Al Shabaab 35 people in Ankara had links to a police. vowing to “take any step required to Syrian Kurdish militia, as security The fighting, in which PKK mil- defend this country”. pull out from forces clashed with rebels in the res- itants used rocket-launchers and In a sign of the tension gripping tive southeast. The interior ministry automatic weapons, continued spo- the nation, one of the two bridges Puntland port identified the bomber as Seher Cagla radically on Tuesday in Baglar district, linking Istanbul’s Asian and Euro- Demir, born in 1992 in the eastern city a journalist reported. pean sides was closed for nearly an BOSASSO, SOMALIA: Somali of Kars. Security sources said a police hour on Tuesday because of a suspect Islamist militants briefly held a The ministry said she had been officer and three “terrorists” had vehicle abandoned on the road. port town in the semi-autono- affiliated with the outlawed Kurdistan been killed, and around 10 civilians Bomb disposal experts found no mous region of Puntland before Workers’ Party (PKK) since 2013 and wounded. trace of explosives, NTV news chan- withdrawing early yesterday, a then “crossed into Syria and received The clashes forced civilians to flee nel reported, while CNN-Turk said the local government minister said. terror training in the YPG terrorist their homes, with many seen carrying driver had simply run out of fuel. Al Shabaab fighters arrived by organisation”. Relatives and friends of one of the victims of the suicide bomb attack, their belongings through the streets Kurdish rebel leader Cemil Bayik boat and took control of Gara’ad The People’s Protection Units or mourn at her coffin during a funeral ceremony in Ankara, yesterday. past burned-out vehicles. warned Turkey to expect payback late on Monday, Security Minister YPG is a Syrian Kurdish militia that Last week, the army announced for the military operations in the Abdi Herfi told reporters in Punt- Ankara regards as a terror outfit the end of three months of operations southeast, in an interview published land’s regional capital, Garowe. linked to the PKK, which has waged pointed to Kurdish rebels. Turkey has stepped up its offen- in Diyarbakir’s historic Sur district, yesterday in Britain’s Times news- Government forces are now in a bloody war against the Turkish state The interior ministry said a thor- sive against Kurdish rebels in the where the lockdown has been pro- paper. “The Turks looted and burnt control of the settlement, he said. since 1984. ough investigation was under way southeast, which has seen months of gressively eased. everything they could in the Kurd- Puntland has avoided most Nobody has yet claimed Sunday’s and offered condolences to relatives clashes and several towns put under But special police units have ish cities on which curfews were of the violence carried out by Al attack, which struck at the heart of the of civilians who lost their lives in the strict 24-hour curfews, as well as in started fresh operations in three other imposed,” he said in an interview the Shabaab, an Al Qaeda-linked capital but the Turkish government attack carried out by the “separatist Iraq, following the collapse of a shaky southeastern towns, which are now paper said took place a few days ago group that’s waged an insurgency has said “almost certain” evidence terrorist organisation.” truce last year. under curfew. in northern Iraq. in Somalia since 2006. 12 WEDNESDAY 16 MARCH 2016 OPINION

ESTABLISHED IN 1996

CHAIRMAN SHEIKH THANI BIN ABDULLAH AL THANI

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

ACTING MANAGING EDITOR HUSSAIN AHMAD [email protected]

EDITORIAL New president in Myanmar Lessons learned from Manhattan

yanmar has achieved another milestone in its Jews can help Muslims defeat ISIS dramatic transformation from an isolated state to a rapidly opening and aspiring democracy. The don’t know is that this firm was corporate takeover cases, which have not been thoroughly explained parliament in the country has elected Htin Kyaw, once a low-profile law firm man- were viewed by high-profile law or described in detail by moderate, 69, a close confidant of Myanmar’s Nobel Peace aged by a group of Jewish lawyers- a firms as low-profile and uncivi- mainstream Muslim Scholars, to Mlaureate Aung San Suu Kyi, as president, making him the first minority suffering from racial dis- lised, and they weren’t generating the general public and the younger head of state who does not hail from a military background since crimination. Despite this they held lot of money, so they tended to leave generation in particular, leaving a the 1960s. It was a moment of glory for Suu Kyi whose National high ambitions and determined atti- them to the Jews! void in their knowledge. tudes which led them to prosperity. Flom and his fellow Jewish law- The “void” left by mainstream League for Democracy won a thumping victory in the elections The Question here is how they yers maintained their perseverance moderate Muslim Scholars through in November, allowing her party to dominate Myanmar’s two managed to be successful, and what and focused their efforts on the work not adequately conveying these top- legislative houses. Htin Kyaw will be sworn in on March 30, does that have to do with ISIS? they had in their hands, and in the ics was and is still being exploited and replacing incumbent Thein Sein. By Mubarak Abdulla To find out the answer let us early 1970s a breakthrough hap- utilized by ISIS and fellow extrem- Suu Kyi could easily have become the president but she is Al Kubaisi have a look at the story of one of pened and their hard work finally ist groups to influence some Muslim barred from top political office by a constitutional amendment the founders of this law firm, Joe paid off! What happened in this youngsters with their nonsensical, Flom. He was an ambitious Jewish period was a change in regulations uncivilised, irrational and unau- brought by the junta. She is married and had children with a he future belongs to lawyer, who was the son of a poor and the internationalization of the thorised understanding of Islamic foreigner and this makes her constitutionally unable to become those who believe in Jewish migrant couple from Eastern market, which prompted the corpo- Jurisprudence “Shariah”. So, the first president. But she has vowed to run the country through Htin the beauty of their Europe, living in one of Brooklyn’s rate takeover cases to become the and main step to fight ISIS and pro- Kyaw, who runs a charity founded by Suu Kyi and has been a dreams” — Former poorest neighbourhoods. Yet this highest-paid in the law industry. tect Muslim youngsters from being “TUS President Eleanor Roosevelt. didn’t prevent him from pursuing The Stocks of the Jewish law brainwashed and hoodwinked by trusted member of her inner circle since the mid-1990s. It’s not clear whether Suu Kyi will become part of the government In life, everyone has a dream his studies in the prestigious Har- firms rose rapidly as a result, and them is to explain these controver- through other positions. There was speculation that she may he is looking forward to realize one vard University and graduating with they became the most prominent sial topics in detail and to teach them day,whether it is related to wealth, high grades in the process. law firms in the country, after dec- the authorized majority Islamic view become prime minister - a position that does not currently exist. sports or education. One of the However, when he started his ades of living in the shadows of the of them, which is rational, peace- As prime minister she would be able to travel the world and meet dreams related to wealth may be quest for a job in the law firms in traditional and biased law firms. ful and justice-seeking. world leaders and basically fulfill the to have your own successful busi- New York, all of them rejected him, What brought Skadden, Arps, Even if ISIS and other extremist role of being the president without ness, and to have an office in one as was the case with other Jewish Slate, Meagher & Flom law firm and groups are defeated and withdraw in actually having that title. There were of Manhattan’s skyscrapers, with lawyers, just because of their reli- other Jewish law firms to success the meantime,due to militant raids Myanmar’s also reports that she could be appointed your company’s advertisement gious affiliation. He ended up joining and prosperity was their exploita- launched on them by the Interna- placed on one of Times Square’s a low-profile law firm established tion and utilization of the void left tional alliance, such extremist as the country’s foreign minister. democracy giant billboards. by Jewish lawyers called: “Skad- by traditional high-profile law firms ideologies will not cease to exist has grown Myanmar has passed a major test Speaking about Manhattan and den and Arps”! The same can be said about ISIS amongst young Muslims, unless with the election of a non-military Times Square leads us to reflect upon As a Jewish law firm, they weren’t and fellow extremist groups, they the aforementioned void is filled by with the president, but other challenges remain. one of its famous landmarks, The taking big-money cases like those exploited and utilized the void left Muslim scholars by making widely election Relations between the armed forces Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & concerning tax and general corpo- by the mainstream moderate Mus- known the true,mainstream Islamic of a new and Suu Kyi will define the success Flom Law Firm Headquarters. In rate disputes, because those were lim scholars! understanding of these topics. of the new government. Suu Kyi will 2010, the SASM& F law firm was the taken by New York’s high-profile Topics like Jihad, Khilafa, Imple- president, but second highest-grossing law firm law firms, which rejected Joe and menting Shariah laws, and Islamic The writer has a Bachelors Degree in have to manage the relationship with in the world, with over 20 branches other Jews. All they could get, in the perspective of state and how it is Islamic Studies from the Islamic and challenges the military very cautiously because worldwide. But what most of you late 1950s and 1960s, were hostile supposed to be formed and function Arabic Studies College, Dubai, UAE remain for the military retains significant power the new including control of the vital home, defence and border ministries. Any government. confrontation between the two can give rise to a cold war and hobble the Don’t trust Putin’s troop pullback from Syria government at a time when the country needs a powerful and stable leadership By Leonid Bershidsky Putin, however, teased the more escalated again, and the Ukrainian these terms include a pro-Russian to overcome the many challenges facing the country. Bloomberg likely purpose of his announcement. army suffered one of its most humil- local government and militia in the Tensions between Suu Kyi and the junta have simmered in “I hope today’s decision will be iating defeats, at Illovaysk. east. In Syria, he is demanding a seat the run-up to the presidential election and are continuing as a good signal for all the sides of the There were plenty of pullback at the negotiating table for Assad and her party prepares to take power. Suu Kyi wants to establish conflict,” he said. “I hope this will announcements after the second a role for the strongman or a des- resident Vladimir Putin’s significantly increase the trust of all Minsk cease-fire, reached in Feb- ignated successor in the country’s complete democracy by demilitarising the country’s politics, but unexpected announcement participants in the process.” ruary 2015. This shaky deal has held future. In both cases, the terms are the military is unlikely to relinquish all the power it holds. Pthat Russian troops would By the process, of course, he up much better than the first one, unpalatable to the opposing side. The international community would expect the new pull back from Syria shouldn’t be means the peace talks in Geneva, though neither side has been willing In Ukraine, Minsk II may never be government to address the issue of Rohingyas who are suffering taken at face value: He’s made similar which resumed on Monday amid to meet its political conditions. Yet fully implemented. In Syria, Putin is persecution at the hands of the majority community. Suu Kyi will announcements in the past to show cautious optimism because a shaky it’s still clear that hostilities could not going to sit and watch the Assad have to take some tough decisions to ensure justice to Rohingyas. Western negotiating partners how cease-fire announced on February resume at any moment and if any regime be eliminated through talks. constructive he can be. He always 27 has largely held, and the level of troops or weapons have been pulled Until the process ends in some sort Secondly, the new government will have to focus on rebuilding has a hidden agenda. violence has been sharply reduced. back, they can be re-engaged within of deal acceptable to him, there will the weak economy. Putin’s official explanation of the Putin used a similar signalling days. OSCE monitors have never been always be a possibility of Russia re- supposed withdrawal, set to start method in June 2014, as talks were able fully to ascertain where all the entering the fray. Tuesday, is that he considers “the beginning to hammer out what troops and weapons are: The rebels Just as Putin has never admit- tasks set for the Defence Ministry became the first Minsk cease-fire haven’t given them full access. ted that Russian units were involved mainly carried out.” The Russian for eastern Ukraine. Late that month, In Syria, it’s even easier for Russia in large-scale fighting in Ukraine, military “has allowed Syrian troops Putin asked his rubber-stamp upper to conceal troop movements because he has never announced Russia’s Quote of the day and the patriotic forces of Syria to house of parliament to withdraw per- no one except local human rights intention to bomb any target in Syria achieve a radical breakthrough in mission for him to conduct military activists is able to monitor the situa- except the Islamic State. Yet his war- the fight against international terror- actions in Ukrainian territory. Rus- tion on the ground, and their ability planes kept hammering opposition Today’s result is ism and gain initiative on practically sia never officially conducted any, is limited. Putin said the air base groups that are now part of the peace every front.” though Russian troops, instructors that Russia built in Khmeimim in talks. That Putin is willing to pull because of the love of He’s not wrong about the latter: and weapons were even then being the Latakia province would continue back, if only in words is an indirect Emboldened and aided by Russian sent to aid pro-Moscow rebels in to operate, as would Russia’s naval admission that the Islamic State was people for her. It is the air strikes against the regime’s oppo- eastern Ukraine. Nonetheless, Putin, base in Tartous, to enforce the cease- never his primary target in Syria. victory of my sister nents, President Bashar Al Assad’s according to his spokesman Dmitry fire and monitor the peace process. Russia and the US have a shared forces have been gaining ground Peskov, considered the announce- It will be all but impossible to say interest in uniting Syrian forces in Aung San Suu Kyi. since the start of this year. Yet they ment an appropriate gesture as exactly which troops and equipment the fight against Islamic State. Yet haven’t captured the all-impor- negotiations between the rebels, will be withdrawn, because Russia they have conflicting visions of Syr- tant city of Aleppo or dealt any Ukraine and the Organisation for has never made it fully transpar- ia’s future. The Russian pullback may Htin Kyaw spectacular defeats to any of the Security and Cooperation in Europe ent what or whom it sent to Syria. have caused the Russian ruble’s Newly elected President of bigger insurgent groups, including were beginning. As in Ukraine in 2014 and 2015, exchange rate against the US dol- Myanmar the Islamic State. “Radical break- That cease-fire appeared to Putin is signalling that he is open to lar to spike, but Putin is probably through” is an exaggeration. hold only briefly. The fighting soon a deal, but on his terms. In Ukraine, not done with this war yet.

All thoughts and views expressed in these columns are those of the writers, not of the newspaper. All correspondence regarding Opinion page should be mailed to the Editor-in-Chief.

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Reuters responsibility,” Rahman said. towards that goal. A former develop- informed him about the theft at the Unknown hackers A former finance secretary, Fazle ment economics professor, Rahman time, he said. Kabir, would be the new governor, the took over as the central bank gover- On Monday, the minister raised breached the finance minister said. nor in May 2009, and was nearing the the issue at a cabinet meeting, where DHAKA: Bangladesh’s Central Bank computer systems Unknown hackers breached the end of his second term. Hasina said that the central bank Governor Atiur Rahman (pictured) computer systems of Bangladesh Bank One of his signature achievements should be held responsible for the loss, resigned yesterday following demands of Bangladesh Bank and attempted to steal $951m from its has been shoring up the country’s for- an official who was the meeting said. of accountability from the govern- and attempted to account at the Federal Reserve Bank eign exchange reserves, which have Rahman defended his record at the ment after $81m was stolen from the of New York, which it uses for interna- increased four-fold to $28bn under central bank, saying he was proud of bank’s US account in one of the larg- steal $951m from tional settlements, between February his watch. his achievements there. He described est cyber heists ever. its account at the 4 and February 5. He also tried to ensure farmers the heist as an “earthquake” and said Rahman, who returned to Dhaka They managed to transfer $81m and women entrepreneurs had bet- the bank had promptly informed intel- late on Monday after attending a Federal Reserve Bank to entities in the Philippines, and the ter access to banking services and ligence agencies in Bangladesh and weekend International Monetary of New York, which it money was further diverted to casi- credit. “He has set a good example abroad and also brought in interna- Fund conference in New Delhi, said uses for international nos there. More than $30m of the by taking the responsibility for this tional experts to investigate. that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina money that was stolen was handed incident,” said Wahid Uddin Mah- FireEye Inc’s Mandiant forensics had accepted his resignation. settlements, between over in cash to an ethnic Chinese mud, a professor of economics at division is helping investigate the The government also fired two February 4 and man in Manila, a Philippines senator could take months. Dhaka University. cyber heist. The bank has also been deputy governors of the bank, Finance looking into the suspected launder- Rahman’s exit could be a blow to The pressure to remove Rah- in touch with the Fed and other US Minister Abul Maal Abdul Muhith said, February 5. ing scheme said. Bangladesh, a South Asian nation of man built up over the weekend, after authorities, including the FBI and the days after blaming it for keeping the Bangladesh Bank officials have 160 million. The country has been Muhith publicly expressed his annoy- Department of Justice. “After doing government in the dark about the theft. there is not much precedence of said there is little hope of apprehend- aspiring to reach middle-income ance that he learned about the heist all these measures and getting a clear Rahman, 65, said he resigned to accountability and to uphold the ing the perpetrators and recovering status, and Rahman was seen as one only a month after the fact from the picture, we informed the finance min- set an example in a country where image of the central bank. “I took the money would be difficult and of the driving forces helping Dhaka media. The central bank had not ister in writing,” Rahman said. Chinese operator in Manila given $30m

Reuters accounts connected to the case and were blocked after a typo in one of had requested assistance from the the instructions raised red flags. United States’ Federal Bureau of Inves- Bangladesh Bank suspects the tigation (FBI). money was sent to the Philippines in MANILA: More than $30m of the Teofisto Guingona, head of the four tranches and, once there, was money hackers stole from the Bang- Senate’s anti-corruption committee, diverted to casinos. It has said it is ladesh central bank’s account at the said ahead of the hearing that cash working with the anti-money laun- New York Fed was delivered in cash deliveries were made to an ethnic dering authorities in the Philippines to a Chinese casino junket operator Chinese man over several days from to recover the funds. in Manila, officials told a Philippines a foreign exchange broker. The Philippines’ Rizal Commercial Senate hearing yesterday. These were made up of 600m Banking Corp (RCBC) said last week A further $50m was split between pesos ($12.87m) and around $18m, it was investigating $81m deposited a casino resort and a gaming firm in which meant the junket operator at one of its branches. Senator Guing- the Philippines, where bank accounts would have received a haul made up ona said the transfers into RCBC were that first received the funds were of at least 780,000 banknotes. subsequently consolidated into one opened in 2015 as part of what offi- The details shine a partial light account and some of the money was cials now believe was an elaborately on what happened after last month’s converted to pesos. Guingona, the planned laundering scheme. cyber-heist of Bangladesh Bank’s senator, said Xu was an ethnic Chi- “Our money trail ended up at the account at the Federal Reserve Bank nese foreigner but did not know if he casinos,” Julia Bacay Abad, executive of New York, which netted hackers was from mainland China. Bautista Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC) Branch Manager Maia Santos Deguito (centre) receives advice director of the Anti-Money Launder- more than $80m. The hackers tried said $29m ended up in an account of ing Council, told the open hearing. to withdraw about $951m from the Solaire, a casino resort owned and from her lawyers during the Senate hearing on the alleged $100m illegally laundered in the Philippines She said her agency had frozen 44 account but the other transactions operated by Bloombery Resorts Corp. at the Senate building in Pasay city, south of Manila, yesterday.

Biannale of Sydney ‘Forced labour’ Google AI programme beats South for thousands of maids in Hong Korean Go pro with 4-1 score Kong: Report

Reuters studying old matches and using sim- AFP ulated games to hone itself. “AlphaGo’s win is important, because, unlike techniques used in SEOUL: Google’s artificial intelli- previous programs, it is applicable HONG KONG: Tens of thou- gence (AI) programme yesterday generally, and can be used for many sands of foreign maids in Hong beat South Korean professional Lee other things,” said Daniel Sleator, a Kong are in “forced labour”, Sedol (pictured) in the ancient board computer science professor at Carn- according to a new report that game Go, recovering from Sunday’s egie Mellon University. fuels growing criticism of the loss to win its fourth match in a five- Google executives say they aim city’s treatment of its army of game series. to apply the technology underly- domestic workers. AlphaGo, developed by Google ing AlphaGo to create algorithms The study by the Justice Cen- subsidiary DeepMind, had already and programs to assist humans in tre estimates that one in six, or clinched a series victory with its fields from medical care to scien- 50,000 of Hong Kong’s more third win on Saturday, in a result that tific research and robotics. than 300,000 migrant domestic shocked the world. Last week, Eric Schmidt, exec- workers — mainly from Indonesia The programme made his- utive chairman of Google parent and the Philippines — fell into the tory last year by becoming the Alphabet Inc, told reporters he “forced labour” category. first machine to beat a human pro expected the technology would Its findings come after a report player, but 33-year-old Lee, one of eventually be deployed across all of by the UN Committee Against Tor- the world’s top players, was seen as Google’s services. ture in December urged Hong a much more formidable opponent. are simply too many moves for a “Artificial Intelligence can help Kong authorities to reform laws in “I am disappointed that the machine to win by brute-force cal- find new strategies in fields such order to protect victims of forced matches are over, and also disap- culations, the route IBM’s Deep Blue as health care or law,” said Lee labour and trafficking. pointed that I could not end the series used to famously beat former world Sang-wan, a professor of brain and The plight of the city’s domes- on a high note,” Lee told reporters, chess champion Garry Kasparov in cognitive engineering at the Korea tic workers was also thrown into thanking fans for their support and 1997. Advanced Institute of Science and the international spotlight by adding that he had wholeheart- “It was just an incredible game,” Technology. the high-profile abuse case of edly enjoyed the games. “I think the DeepMind founder Demis Hassabis The Korea Baduk Association on Indonesian maid Erwiana Sulisty- humans still have a good chance,” he told reporters. Until AlphaGo’s victory Tuesday awarded AlphaGo an hon- aningsih, whose Hong Kong added. last year, experts had not expected orary professional 9-dan title, the employer received a six-year jail Go, most popular in countries an artificial intelligence program to highest possible rank and the same sentence last year. such as China, South Korea and beat a human professional for at least as that held by Lee, for exhibiting The new report defined forced An art installation by Danish artist Nina Beier is seen at a Japan, involves two contestants mov- a decade. creative and brilliant skills and con- labour as employment for which media preview of the upcoming 20th Biannale of Sydney, in ing black and white stones across a The program’s developers over- tributing to the game’s progress. the worker had not been recruited Sydney, yesterday. The Biannale of Sydney is Australia’s largest square grid, aiming to seize the most came the hurdles it faced with a Go Ratings, a website that ranks freely, was not doing the job freely, contemporary art event and one of the longest running art territory. design that enabled it to learn on Go players worldwide, placed or could not walk away from work. biannales in the world. It is perfect for artificial intel- its own, hoping it would be able to AlphaGo as fourth best, with Lee Fourteen percent of those in ligence research because there approximate human intuition by Sedol following, in fifth place. forced labour had been trafficked into the city, it said. “Hong Kong must come clean and acknowledge these problems. It can no longer afford to sweep them under the Australia gripped in endless summer as heat breaks records carpet,” said Piya Muqit, execu- tive director of Justice Centre, a non-profit rights group. AFP early March, the month which marks globally. “With overall warming aver- temperature reaching 26 degrees Cel- of records had already been smashed “Current regulations can actu- the start of autumn. age temperatures you would expect to sius (79F) or above. with temperatures running 10 degrees ally increase the vulnerability of A lack of rain and cooler winds see more warm extremes and fewer The previous record was 19 days above average in some areas. workers to exploitation and vic- left the east coast suffering a pro- cold extremes — and that’s exactly set in March 2014. “Sydney also had The report said that over hot- tims face very real barriers in SYDNEY: A heatwave has Australia longed stretch of hot and humid what we are seeing,” Trewin said. a record run of nights above 20 (Cel- test part of the heatwave, maximum seeking assistance and justice,” gripped in a seemingly endless sum- weather, it said in a special climate The bureau said the extreme phase sius),” said Trewin. “They had a run of temperatures were 4 degrees Celsius she said. mer, with a run of record-breaking statement released on Friday. of the national heatwave ended around 25 nights in a row above 20 which was or more above average over most of Debt incurred by unscrupu- temperatures even as autumn offi- Bureau climatologist Blair Trewin March 9-10, but temperatures remained terminated this morning by the nar- the continent but 8-12 degrees Cel- lous employment agencies both in cially begins. said yesterday that the heat was con- generally above average. On the east rowest possible margin — it was 19.9.” sius above average in much of the Hong Kong and the workers’ home The Bureau of Meteorology has sistent with the “well-established coast, Sydney continued to sweat with Trewin said it was too early southeast. The report said rainfall countries also played a major role said the abnormal conditions were warming trend in long-term aver- its Observatory Hill post notching up to say whether this would be the was significantly below normal in the in trapping workers in their jobs, affecting almost the entire country in age temperatures” in Australia and a record 39 consecutive days of the nation’s hottest March, but a number country’s tropical north. the report found. 14 WEDNESDAY 16 MARCH 2016 ASIA / PHILIPPINES

Green operation Four workers Malaysia throws gunned down out Australian in Indonesia AFP journalist duo JAKARTA: Gunmen yesterday shot dead four road workers in Indone- sia’s Papua, police said, the latest deadly violence in the insurgency- Najib, 62, also faces lingering hit eastern province. Authorities abruptly questions over the murder in 2006 The unidentified gunmen of a Mongolian woman by two of his ambushed a group of seven civilian drop plan to charge bodyguards. workers who were paving a road in TV cameraman The victim, Altantuya Shaar- the remote and mountainous Sinak iibuu, was reputedly at the centre area of Puncak district, local police and reporter. of alleged multi-million-dollar chief Paulus Waterpauw said. kickbacks in the 2002 purchase of “Three were shot dead at the French submarines when Najib was scene, and another died later,” he AFP defence minister. Government crit- said. One worker was found alive ics and anti-corruption activists have while two others were missing, long alleged that the bodyguards — he added. Police did not spec- who have been sentenced to death ify which group was behind the KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia yes- over the murder — were ordered by attack. Separatists usually target terday deported two Australian higher-ups to kill Altantuya, possi- security forces, but on occasion journalists who were detained after bly to silence her. attack and kidnap Indonesian and trying to question Prime Minister Najib denies any involvement. foreign workers in the province. Najib Razak about multiple scan- Besser had tried to question Waterpauw said more police dals swirling around him. Najib on Saturday night as the prime Filipino government workers clean rubbish from a river in Manila, Philippines, yesterday. would be sent to the area today to Najib’s government has waged minister visited a mosque in Kuch- hunt the attackers. a months-long campaign to stifle ing, capital of Malaysia’s Sarawak scrutiny of the allegations of massive state on Borneo island. corruption that he faces, sparking Speaking at Kuching’s airport warnings that press freedom was yesterday, Besser told reporters it under assault. had been a “roller coaster few days” Malaysia plans to bar foreign political donations He is battling accusations that but declined further comment as the billions of dollars were stolen from pair hurried to board their flight out. a state-owned fund he established in Australian Foreign Minister Julie 2009, and is under pressure to fully Bishop on Monday had expressed Bloomberg that could be audited, said Paul Low, contribution” and said the premier for personal gain and said the funds explain his acceptance of a mysteri- concern, saying journalists should a minister in the Prime Minister’s had returned $620m that was not were earmarked to meet the party ous $681m overseas payment. be allowed to work unhindered. Department. utilised. and community’s needs. Accepting Australian journalists Linton ABC denies Malaysia’s accusa- “Political donations from foreign The Malaysian Bar association such funds isn’t a new practice and Besser and Louie Eroglu had been tions against the journalists. KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is interest and sources should be pro- said yesterday it was seeking a judi- the furore was part of a campaign to detained overnight in the city of “They did nothing wrong in reviewing plans to bar foreign polit- hibited,” Low, who chairs the National cial review of the attorney general’s force him from office, he said. Kuching on Saturday, then released Kuching. They were doing jour- ical donations after Prime Minister Consultative Committee on Political decision not to pursue a criminal The prime minister said last year but barred from leaving Malaysia nalism,” ABC News director Gaven Najib Razak became embroiled in a Funding, said in a statement. “This case against Najib. Under the con- that the country needed to urgently pending possible charges. Morris said, adding that he was “very scandal over a $681m contribution is necessary as a safeguard against stitution, a decision to start criminal regulate political financing to ensure But authorities abruptly dropped glad and relieved” at the outcome. that ended up in his personal bank foreign influence on local politics as prosecution lies solely with the attor- accountability as Malaysia had no plans to charge them yesterday and “This incident has demonstrated account. well as the sovereignty of the nation.” ney general. laws to determine wrongdoing over they flew to Singapore shortly after, again why it is vital to defend media A Malaysian committee working Najib is facing his biggest politi- Najib announced the forma- donations even though there are some their local attorney Albert Tang said. freedom, including the right to ques- on a framework to regulate political cal crisis since coming to power seven tion of the committee in August, rules in place on election expenditure. “Obviously, they are relieved,” tion authority.” funding also determined that anon- years ago as questions linger over the more than a month after news broke Low said the political funding Tang said. Najib and the state firm, 1Malay- ymous donations should not exceed donation. Attorney General Mohamed that the $681m had passed through committee is on track to complete Malaysian police have accused sia Development Berhad (1MDB), 1,000 ringgit ($242) and contribu- Apandi Ali in January cleared Najib his personal accounts. The pre- its work within the set time frame the two men, from the Australian deny suggestions that the $681m tions must be held in a bank account of wrongdoing over the “personal mier, 62, has denied taking money of a year. Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), of payment he received was siphoned crossing a security line, saying they from the now debt-stricken com- “aggressively tried to approach the pany. His government says it was a prime minister.” “personal donation” from the Saudi They had faced possible charges royal family, most of which was Sri Lanka rations of “obstructing a public servant”. returned. Discrimination against people power after with HIV in Asia: Study worst blackout in 20 years Reuters slept for two nights in the barracks services for women in Cambodia and for security guards. general health services for sex work- “You see the fear and misinfor- ers in Myanmar and Vietnam. AFP mation that’s in the medical setting,” “After going through five days of BANGKOK: Some health workers in said Gareth Durrant, Asia Catalyst’s labour pain, the first hospital was Asia are refusing to perform surgery Bangkok-based director of capacity unable to help me and referred me COLOMBO: Sri Lanka announced and provide services for people liv- building and community initiatives. to this hospital. They did not help. lengthy daily power cuts nation- ing with HIV, and are even expelling The Asia-Pacific region is home Fortunately, I delivered (the baby) wide as the state-run electricity patients from hospitals and forc- to 4.8 million people living with on my own in the waiting room,” a monopoly struggled to restore sup- ing women to undergo sterilisation, HIV, the majority of them living woman in the southern Cambodian ply after the island’s worst blackout according to grassroots organisa- in 12 countries: China, Cambodia, province of Kampot was quoted as in 20 years. tions. India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myan- saying in the report. The Ceylon Electricity Board In China and Vietnam, discrim- mar, Nepal, Pakistan, Papua New After their HIV status became said its main Chinese-built coal- ination took the form of changing Guinea, the Philippines, Thailand known to service providers, some fired power plant that supplied the recommended option for treat- and Vietnam. patients — two each from China and more than half the country’s elec- ment from surgery to topical or oral Asia Catalyst trained and Myanmar, and three from Cambodia tricity was still offline following medication, said the four-country supported staff from eight commu- — were forced to leave the hospi- a massive system breakdown on study supported by Asia Catalyst, nity-based organisations — two each tal, including a Cambodian woman Sunday. which provides management train- in Cambodia, China, Myanmar and forced out before she learned how to “We will need a few days more ing for community-based health Vietnam. From May to July 2015, the prevent transmission of HIV to her to get this power station online organisations. staff interviewed 202 people living newborn baby. and this means we need to ration In Myanmar and Cambodia, with HIV — 149 women, 15 transgen- Some healthcare providers made electricity across the country on patients with HIV were relegated to der people and 38 men. sterilisation a condition of providing a staggered basis,” a board offi- segregated waiting areas and bed Fifty-one interviewees from all pregnancy-related services to women cial told AFP. Australia Broadcasting Corporation cameraman Louie Eroglu (right) spaces. One HIV-positive woman four countries reported being denied with HIV. One woman in Yangon was Several small plants are now and reporter Linton Besser (centre) walk to the departure hall at in Myanmar said doctors told staff care after disclosure of their HIV sterilised without her knowledge or supplying power to the whole of Kuching International Airport in Sarawak, Malaysia, yesterday. not to give her a hospital bed, so she status including pregnancy-related consent, the report said. the country until the 900-mega- watt plant is restarted, but cannot produce enough electricity to go around. The cuts will occur for seven Cambodia sentences student to jail Soaking in the sun and a half hours — five and a half hours during the day and two hours at night — the official AFP the ruling, but he denounced the judge’s deci- said, without saying how long the sion and vowed to appeal. rationing would last. “It is not only unjust for me, but also for all Authorities are probing the Cambodian people,” he told reporters in court. cause of an explosion and fire at PHNOM PENH: A Cambodian student was Rights groups also criticised the ruling. a main distribution centre outside jailed for 18 months yesterday over a Face- “It is a threat to those who want to make the capital Colombo on Sunday book post calling for a “colour revolution” in their voice heard” through social media, Am that caused the entire electricity the country, a verdict criticised by rights groups. Sam Ath of local rights group Licadho told grid to switch off automatically. Strongman Prime Minister Hun Sen has reporters. Power and Energy Minister taken an increasingly hard line towards dis- “It makes it harder for the youth and stu- Ranjith Siyambalapitiya has said sent in recent months, vowing to crack down dents to express their opinions,” he added. authorities have not ruled out particularly hard on criticisms via social media. While Hun Sen has railed against online sabotage. Kong Raiya, 25, an anti-government activ- criticism, he has become a late enthusiast of The country, which suffers ist, was arrested last August over a post calling social media. sporadic power cuts, was plunged for “colour revolution” in the Southeast Asian Earlier this year he launched a new mobile into darkness for at least seven nation, a term used to refer to a wave of anti- app and a website in an attempt to engage the hours on Sunday before electricity government mass movements in recent years, public, especially young voters, many of whom was restored. The former govern- mainly in the former Soviet bloc. support the opposition. He has also embraced ment’s power minister criticised He was convicted by Phnom Penh Munic- Facebook. the Chinese-built plant in 2014, ipal Court yesterday for incitement to commit While he has said he was open to construc- Nepalese bask in the sun at Durbar Square in Kathmandu, Nepal, yesterday. saying it had broken down more a felony. tive criticism, he has warned social media users than 35 times in the first three The student said he was not surprised by who insult him that they can be easily traced. years of operation. ASIA / AFRICA WEDNESDAY 16 MARCH 2016 15

Congo police Suu Kyi confidant is Myanmar president arrest 18

Kyi’s pick in a vote by both houses of pro-democracy Stage set for Suu parliament. Htin Kyaw received 360 of the 652 votes cast. protesters Kyi to run country Suu Kyi was the first member through proxy leader. of parliament to vote and clapped and smiled when the result was announced. Reuters Outgoing President Thein Sein issued a statement congratulating Reuters the man who will replace him on KINSHASA: Police arrested 18 April 1. “On behalf of the nation and protesters yesterday in the eastern the people, I take pride in your being Democratic Republic of Congo city elected as the president,” Thein Sein of Goma during a peaceful dem- NAYPYITAW: Myanmar’s parlia- said in the statement. onstration over the jailing of two ment elected a close friend and NLD lawmakers, most of whom fellow activists, the United Nations confidant of Nobel laureate Aung have no experience as members of said. San Suu Kyi as president yesterday, parliament, spent time rehearsing Arrests of critics of Presi- making Htin Kyaw the first head of how they would vote the night before dent Joseph Kabila have become state who does not hail from a mil- the election, a Reuters witness said. common in Congo amid height- itary background since the 1960s. They were keen to ensure there ened political tensions. Kabila is Suu Kyi led her National League were no last minute mistakes that required by the constitution to step for Democracy (NLD) to a landslide would cost them a presidency they down in December after 15 years in election win in November, but a con- had campaigned for decades to see. office but the opposition accuses stitution drafted by the former junta “This is the big day for us,” Zar Ni him of trying to cling to power by bars her from the top office. Min, an NLD Lower House MP, said delaying a presidential poll set for She has vowed to run the after the vote. “This is what we have November. country anyway through a proxy hoped for for a long time ago.” The activists were detained president, and on Thursday the NLD Yanghee Lee, the UN Spe- just after they began marching nominated Htin Kyaw for the role. He cial Rapporteur on human rights to demand the release of fel- runs a charity founded by Suu Kyi in Myanmar, said that despite the low members of the Struggle for and has been a trusted member of celebrations there was no time for Change (Lucha) group a year ago her inner circle since the mid-1990s. complacency because Myanmar in the capital, Kinshasa, Jose Maria He is not a lawmaker. had hundreds of laws that were out Aranaz, director of Congo’s UN “Today’s result is because of the of line with its international obliga- human rights office, said. love of people for her. It is the victory tions, and people could be sentenced Aranaz said that the detain- of my sister Aung San Suu Kyi,” Htin to hard labour for “all kinds of rea- ees had been allowed to speak to Kyaw told reporters after the vote. sons”. The change of government Military members of parliament arrive at the Union Parliament in Naypyitaw, Myanmar, yesterday. a lawyer but that UN officials were The NLD’s sizeable majority was also a chance to break the denied access. ensured a comfortable win for Suu “tragic status quo situation” of a Lucha said on its Twitter feed million Muslims from the Rohingya that 19 of its members had been minority in Myanmar’s Rakhine Suu Kyi’s school pal has loyalty to prove arrested and were being held at the state, who had been deprived of their police intelligence headquarters. most fundamental rights, she said. The provincial police commis- Tens of thousands of Rohingyas AFP sioner declined to comment. have fled poverty and persecution Ida Sawyer, senior Africa in western Myanmar since religious researcher for the campaign group violence erupted in 2012, and Lee Human Rights Watch, said by told a news conference in Geneva NAYPYITAW: Myanmar’s next president may be little phone from Goma that the protest she was afraid more would flee in known outside his homeland but for Aung San Suu Kyi, by about 20 activists was entirely the 2016 sailing season. who plucked her schoolfriend and longtime aide from the peaceful. The still-powerful military holds political sidelines to be her proxy, it is Htin Kyaw’s loyalty “The police came and (the pro- a quarter of the seats in parliament that is paramount. testers) sat down,” she said. and had the right under the consti- The 69-year-old was comfortably elected Myanmar’s “The police then put them in tution to nominate one of the three first civilian president since 1962 yesterday, a position he the truck.” candidates for president. Its can- will hold in place of the Nobel laureate who is banned from The United Nations and didate, retired general Myint Swe, top office by the army-drafted constitution. rights groups have accused the received 213 votes, making him the The son of a revered poet who has helped run Suu Kyi’s government of targeting Kabi- first vice president. charitable foundation in recent years, Htin Kyaw is billed as la’s opponents, making spurious Relations between the armed someone with a high level of education, personal standing arrests and manipulating the forces and Suu Kyi will define the and absolute trustworthiness to “The Lady”. Myanmar’s newly elected President Htin Kyaw waves justice system, charges that the success of Myanmar’s most signifi- Yet he remains an unknown and untested quantity while leaving the parliament in Naypyitaw, yesterday. government denies. cant break from military rule since with many asking how much influence he will wield over Dozens died in violent anti- the army seized power in 1962. a government he will only nominally lead and in a complex government protests in January Tensions between Suu Kyi and political system where the military still wields consider- will work. But Htin Kyaw’s appointment suggests she thinks 2015 over a proposed law that crit- Aung San Suu Kyi arrives at the military have simmered in the able influence. he has sufficient pedigree in the country’s long struggle ics said was a pretext to delay the the parliament in Naypyitaw, run-up to the presidential election Suu Kyi has pledged to pull the strings of power from against junta rule to be embraced by the millions of vot- election. and as her party prepares to take “above” her appointee, though in this delicate and secre- ers who swept to the polls in November to validate her star Kabila has refused to comment Myanmar, yesterday. power. tive transition, she has not revealed how the arrangement power and simple message of change. on his political future. Thailand Major Thai trafficking trial opens amid fears for witnesses referendum Reuters led to a regional migrant crisis with tier on the US State Department’s the packed court for the start of for- until then flourished in Thailand’s on August 7 Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Myan- Trafficking in Persons (TIP) report for mal hearings. southern provinces and in Malaysia. mar and Bangladesh refusing boats not meeting the minimum standards The investigation and arrests fol- The 92 suspected human traffick- permission to land. for the elimination of trafficking. lowed the discovery of 30 shallow ers include an army general, civilians AFP BANGKOK: The trial of 92 sus- Rights groups had expressed fears Sunai Phasuk, senior researcher graves at a trafficking camp near the and police. pected human traffickers, arrested that a drawn-out case, lasting any- on Thailand at Human Rights Watch, Malaysian border. Rights groups have called on after the discovery of shallow graves thing up to two years, could put the welcomed a shorter trial but said the Many of the bodies were believed authorities to step up witness protec- BANGKOK: Thailand’s military of migrants in Thai jungle, began in hundreds of witnesses at risk because cases should not be rushed to impress to be of Rohingya, a persecuted ethnic tion after some witnesses said they government yesterday set August Bangkok yesterday and the attorney- of inadequate police protection. the United States. Muslim minority in majority Buddhist had been forced into hiding because 7 as the date for a referendum on general’s office said it would be over “The court is accelerating the case “It will totally send the wrong Myanmar. of threats. a controversial constitution it has within a year amid fears about the to finish within a year,” said Prayuth message if the trial is being fast- Weeks later, police revealed 139 Prayuth said the justice ministry drafted since seizing power in a safety of witnesses. Porsuttayaruk, deputy director-gen- tracked simply to impress the TIP graves had been found over the bor- was “looking after the witnesses”, but coup two years ago. Traffickers abandoned boatloads eral of the human trafficking office at report reviewers.” der in Malaysia. did not say how many of the more The referendum will be the of migrants at sea last year after a the Attorney-General’s Office. The defendants, wearing beige That led to a crackdown on the than 400 witnesses were receiving country’s first return to the bal- crackdown by Thai authorities that Thailand remains on the lowest prison uniforms, were brought to multi-million dollar trade which had police protection. lot box since junta chief Prayut Chan-O-Cha toppled an elected government and suspended democracy in May 2014. “The cabinet has approved Girding for battle the referendum bill proposed by South Africa minister the election committee,” junta spokesman Major General Sansern Kaewkumnerd told reporters after may face legal action announcing the August 7 date.

China to release Reuters second deadline to answer ques- tions about a suspected spy unit water from dam established while he was head of the South African Revenue Serv- JOHANNESBURG: South African ice (SARS). Reuters police said yesterday finance min- Gordhan has repeatedly called ister Pravin Gordhan may face legal the investigation a smear cam- action for not cooperating with an paign aimed at tarnishing his and BEIJING: China will release water investigation of surveillance by the the Treasury’s credibility and has from a dam in its southwestern revenue service, escalating a pub- said he would take legal action to province of Yunnan to help allevi- lic row and rattling the rand and protect himself. ate a drought in parts of Southeast bonds. In a strongly worded state- Asia, including Vietnam, China’s In a tussle that has raised con- ment, the Hawks said Gordhan had Foreign Ministry said yesterday. cern about the direction of policy in failed to meet a March 14 deadline The water will be released Africa’s most industrialised but ailing to answer questions. until April 10 from the Jinghong economy, Gordhan hit back, accus- “This is neither a talk-show dam, ministry spokesman Lu Kang US soldiers rappel down a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter during a joint military exercise at a shooting ing police of threatening him. nor a soapie. We are mandated to told a daily news briefing. It will range in the South Korean border city of Pocheon yesterday. The elite Hawks police unit said investigate without fear, favour or benefit Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, it would exercise its “constitutional prejudice,” the unit added, resorting Thailand and Vietnam, Lu added. powers” after Gordhan missed a to capitals to make its point. 16 WEDNESDAY 16 MARCH 2016 PAKISTAN Taliban rejects Pakistan pressure on peace process

Islamabad retains over them. does not have the same effect,” said know who has met with whom” in the are definitely plagued by a serious ill- After the secret meetings with the official, a retired military officer sensitive and high-level peace initia- ness. “The ones who are in Pakistan Petition to bring Pakistan’s influence Pakistani officials about two weeks close to the talks. tive. In Kabul, however, members of ... We have told them repeatedly that over the Taliban is the ago, the Taliban’s Supreme Council The insurgents have won new the Afghan government were scepti- they will have to leave if they don’t back hero’s body lynchpin to the peace met at an undisclosed location and zones of influence - if not outright cal about Pakistan’s assertions. participate in the process,” the Paki- voted to reject the talks scheduled for control — from Afghan security “Pakistan’s honesty and sincer- stani official said.. ISLAMABAD: A petition plan developed over early March with the Afghan govern- forces since the United States and ity with regard to the Afghan peace “We have done what we can ... for the retrieval Chaud- last few months by ment, according to a council member. its allies pulled most combat troops process has always been a question,” but influence does not mean control. hry Rehmat Ali’ body from Instead, the insurgents are now from Afghanistan at the end of said an Afghan cabinet member, ech- Those days are long gone.” London was taken up by Afghanistan, Pakistan, pouring back into Afghanistan for 2014, Afghan and Western officials oing the sentiment of several officials The Taliban source had knowl- a justice of the Islamabad the US and China. what they say will be a fierce spring acknowledge. “Pakistan’s trump card interviewed there. A member of the edge of, but did not attend, the High Court (IHC), Justice offensive to be launched soon. — safe havens on its soil — is in dan- Taliban’s leadership council, or shura, meeting with Pakistani officials in Athar Minallah yester- Pakistan’s influence over the ger of being snatched away,” said said rebel representatives met in Islamabad. He was at the subsequent day. Ali, who coined the insurgents is the lynchpin to the peace Michael Kugelman of the Woodrow Islamabad with Pakistani officials a Taliban council meeting to decide on word ‘Pakistan’, died in Reuters plan developed over last few months Wilson Institute, a Washington- little more than two weeks ago. whether to join the peace talks. 1951 in London and was by Afghanistan, Pakistan, the United based think tank. “The Taliban have “They have asked our represent- Taliban spokesman Zabihullah buried there. The peti- States and China to bring an end to little incentive to step off the bat- atives to bring more decision-making Mujahid declined to comment on any tion requested the court the 15-year-old war in Afghanistan. tlefield now, given recent gains and people to the next meeting ... to the meetings with Pakistani representa- to direct the federal gov- ISLAMABAD/PESHAWAR: Pakistani A Pakistani official in Islamabad those likely to come in the next few meeting with US and Afghan officials. tives. He confirmed the Leadership ernment to retrieve his officials threatened to expel Afghani- said the Taliban’s recent success on months. In effect, why quit while This is their dream, but they will not Council meeting but would not give body. The registrar’s office stan’s Taliban from bases in Pakistan the battlefield inside Afghanistan had you’re ahead?” be able to see our senior command- details. Publicly, both the Afghan and at IHC had raised some if they did not join peace talks this changed the equation. Nafees Zakaria, a spokesman for ers,” the Taliban council member said. Pakistani government are express- administrative objections month, but the militants rebuffed their “They no longer need their Paki- Pakistan’s Foreign Office, said he had A senior Pakistani security official ing hopes that peace talks can begin over, which Justice Minal- traditional patron, two officials said, stan bases in the same way, so if no knowledge of meetings with the with knowledge of the talks said: “I before the traditional Taliban spring lah removed yesterday. casting doubt on how much influence Pakistan threatens to expel them, it Taliban but added, “We usually don’t don’t think the talks are dead, but they offensive. The Justice then asked the registrar’s office to fix the petition for hearing. Cricketers big Young Afghan boxer tax defaulters ISLAMABAD: The Federal packs a punch against Board of Revenue of Paki- stan listed many national cricketers as non-fil- ers for failing to file their patriarchal society annual tax returns. The bureau listed Muham- mad Younis, Waqar Younis, AFP My aunt is still against it,” recalls the Misbha-ul-Haq, Syed Ham- young woman, who is also pursuing mad Waseem Haider and a degree in economics. Fawad Alam as non-filers. She is taking a stand on misog- They neither filed annual KABUL: Nineteen-year-old Afghan yny and against the darkest hours tax returns of year 2015 boxer Sadaf Rahimi slams her of Afghan history, by training inside nor showed their moveable punching bag deep in the bowels of Ghazi stadium which the Taliban and immoveable assets. Kabul’s Ghazi stadium, dealing blows used for their public executions dur- Besides them, Syed to gender stereotyping and doing ing their 1996 to 2001 regime. Hammad Waseem Haider, her part to exorcise history: it was One of these executions was Yasir Shah, Muhammad on these very grounds that the Tal- filmed in secret in 1999. The images Babar, Muhammad Younis iban carried out public executions. show a woman, Zarmina, being exe- Khan and Fawad Alam did Sadaf, whose shy gaze seems cuted by Kalashnikov fire for having not file their annual tax at odds with her muscular 60kg killed her violent husband. returns of year 2014. Eight frame, pulls on her gloves. A liber- “It’s a pleasure to train her,” says out of 16 cricketers had not ating spasm accompanies each blow Agha Gul Alamyar, Sadaf’s trainer. filed their income tax and that crushes the leather mitts of Agha Like other young women, Sadaf assets’ returns of 2014 and Gul Alamyar, one of her trainers. has to contend with poor equipment 2015 while the income of Sadaf is a brilliant boxer. But she and basic infrastructure. The mats those who had submitted is also an exception in her country are threadbare and the gloves and their tax and assets’ returns where women participating in sport punching bags are old and worn out. was quite higher than they remains a taboo. “We lack everything, gloves, had shown in their returns. Nato Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg (left) shakes hands with Afghanistan’s President Ashraf Ghani Her black pirate bandana serves boots. There is no encouragement not just to hold her hair in place, but for the girls,” he says. The federation during a news conference in Kabul, yesterday 13 sentenced to to cover it. “I also wear a scarf in my currently counts only 20 women in everyday life because we live in a its ranks. In an effort to boost the death in Pakistan conservative country,” she says. sport among women, Sadaf wants The Taliban’s regime, known for to set up her own club and become ISLAMABAD: Military its brutal treatment of women, was a trainer. But first she must mount Ghani touts success against IS courts in Pakistan have toppled in 2001 by a US-led military the podium in international com- sentenced 13 militants to alliance. Since then, women’s rights petitions, a distant dream. She has death for terrorism-related have improved, but a bitter patriar- already brought home three bronze Reuters Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg, of funding for 2018 through 2020, as offences including the chal aftertaste remains for many medals in regional competitions, but responding to a direct question about well as other issues such as foreign 2013 massacre of 10 for- Afghan women pressured to stay isn’t yet up to Olympic standard—the the Taliban. “They are running for troop levels, which have been thrown eign mountaineers, the at home to cook and raise children. sport’s Holy Grail. In 2012, Sadaf lied cover.” into flux as the coalition seeks to prop army yesterday. At all of 19 years of age—seven in order to accept an invitation by KABUL: Afghan President Ashraf “No quarter would be given” to up the struggling Afghan forces. Tehreek-e-Taliban Paki- of which she has spent in the ring— the Olympics organiser. Ghani yesterday played down recent Islamic State fighters, Ghani added. Before that, however, interna- stan (TTP) member Irfan Sadaf sees a moral obligation “to But the International Boxing failures to jump start peace talks with A combination of air strikes by US tional backers are looking for Kabul’s Ullah was sentenced for prove that men and women can be Association eventually did not allow the Taliban, instead choosing to high- warplanes and “massive” ground leaders to fight corruption, modern- the attack on the base equal. Girls are not forced to stay at her to leave for London, fearing her light recent successes against the operations by Afghan forces has left ise institutions, reform the electoral camp at Nanga Parbat, home”. better trained opponents could seri- nascent Islamic State (IS) presence Islamic State reeling, he said. process, and protect human rights, Pakistan’s second highest Born to a middle-class fam- ously injure her. And this year, she in Afghanistan. Stoltenberg reiterated that the Stoltenberg said during his visit. mountain, which shocked ily from the Tajik ethnic group, won’t be going to Rio. This time Taliban forces have made signif- coalition has no intention of send- “The single most important thing the world and scarred the Sadaf had to first make the case for around the reasons are more pro- icant gains in recent months, briefly ing combat troops back to fight in we would like to see is that Afghani- country’s climbing tourism boxing—which she discovered by saic—her defeat in the South Asian capturing Kunduz and threatening Afghanistan, more than a year after stan continue to implement reforms,” industry. watching Mike Tyson and Laila Ali Games in India in mid February to overrun multiple districts in the the Nato-coalition declared an end he said, adding that the more progress Gunmen dressed in on TV—to those closest to her. means she won’t be Olympics bound. southwest. The latest efforts to bring to its combat mission. is made, the more likely it will be that police uniforms stormed “At first my family was opposed “I am disappointed,” she said. them to the negotiating table faltered Thousands of coalition troops coalition partners will commit to con- the camp and shot dead to me boxing. They were saying: “In India I was completely alone. when the militant group issued a remain to train and advise Afghan tinued funding and troops. 10 foreign mountaineers— ‘Why is a girl boxing? She should No trainer came with me, I had no statement refusing to participate. forces, but operations are limited to Nato has pledged to provide including one American stay home, do the chores and cook.’ support at all. Ghani, facing rising domestic self defense. A US counterterrorism $5.1 billion per year to Afghanistan with dual Chinese citizen- criticism and eager to ensure con- force continues to conduct air strikes through 2017. “The more that we see ship, two other Chinese, tinued international aid, has publicly and special forces raids on suspected Afghanistan is able to fight corrup- three Ukrainians, two Slo- focused on a military campaign in militants, including those of Islamic tion, the easier it will be for me and vakians, one Lithuanian eastern Afghanistan aimed at IS. State. other political leaders to mobilize the and one Nepalese and a “Daesh is on the run,” he said at In July, Nato officials will meet necessary political support,” Stolten- Pakistani guide. a joint news conference with Nato in Warsaw to determine the future berg said. Female lawmakers prove political mettle

Internews But these 89 women have proved the agenda in both houses almost 1,043 un-starred questions, demon- their political capabilities and com- three times the proportion of their strating their interest in parliament’s petence are superior to their male representation. core function of overseeing the counterparts and their interest in par- This agenda included questions, executive. ISLAMABAD: Having around 20 liamentary business is unmatched. motions under rules 259 and 218, Similarly, 28 motions of a total per cent representation in Pakistani From executive oversight through calling attention notices, resolutions, of 50 introduced in the lower house parliament, female lawmakers initi- questions and calling-attention legislative bills, amendment to rules were moved by women. This was in ated nearly half of the agenda in the notices, to motions on issues of pub- and matters under Rule 87. addition to six motions which were upper and lower legislative houses in lic importance and private member The women also spoke actively moved jointly by male and female the past one year. legislation, these female parliamen- on points of order and contributed members. Women have a combined strength tarians have contributed actively in to parliamentary debates on a wide The contribution of women in of 89 members in both houses of the legislative business throughout array of issues of public importance. the submission of calling atten- parliament. There are 70 female the current term. According to the study by the Free tion notices in the lower house also lawmakers in the National Assem- A comparative analysis of the and Fair Election Network (FAFEN), remained impressive. Of a total of 96 bly, making up for only 20.46 per cent orders of the day of the National women in the National Assembly notices, 24 were raised by women. representation in the assembly of 342. Assembly between June 1, 2015 to sponsored or contributed to almost They also raised 52 calling attention In the Senate, there are 19 female February 26, 2016, and the Senate 60 per cent of the agenda during the notices jointly with their male col- legislators coming to 18.26 per cent of between March 12, 2015 and March reporting period. leagues. The female lawmakers are Sadaf Rahimi takes part in a boxing training session at Ghazi Stadium the total representation in the upper 11, 2016, reveals that women con- They submitted 1,159 of a total ahead of their male counterparts in in Kabul. house of 104 members. tributed to more than 44 per cent of of 1,617 starred questions and 519 of the introduction of resolutions as well. INDIA WEDNESDAY 16 MARCH 2016 17

Parkour skills Uber motorcycle TMC ‘bribe sting’ service halted in rocks Parliament Bengaluru Bloomberg

BENGALURU: Uber Technologies ahead of polls Inc and Indian rival Ola had their motorcycle taxi services halted in the Indian city of Bangalore fol- lowing a ban and vehicle seizures march in Kolkata and submitted a by transport authorities. memorandum to Governor Tripathi. There have been 62 Uber BJP urged Governor “Neither the chief minster nor motorcycle taxis confiscated K N Tripathi for a the Trinamool government has any along with 24 vehicles from other CBI probe while the right to continue. We have placed our operators, said Rame Gowda, the demand with the governor seeking Bangalore-based commissioner for CPI-M said any leader his intervention in the matter,” BJP transport and road safety. shown in the video general secretary Kailash Vijayvar- The two companies have giya said in Kolkata after meeting ceased services and the seized footage should not the governor. The sting operation, vehicles can only be released by a be allowed to contest purported to have been done by a Kashmiri traceurs display their Parkour skills in an open field in the lap of Koh-e-Maraan (Hari Parbhat) court, according to Gowda. news portal, figured prominently Uber and Ola started their hillock in downtown Srinagar, yesterday. Parkour, developed in France, is an athletic discipline in which the assembly polls. in the Lok Sabha during Zero Hour motorcycle taxis within hours practitioners or traceurs combine skills of gymnastics, acrobatics, running, and jumping to traverse a and members from the BJP, CPI-M of each other this month, taking and Congress unitedly demanded a variety of terrain, is becoming increasingly popular among youth in the state. their rivalry for passengers to the house probe. Indian city’s gridlocked streets. IANS “We are ashamed that we have UberMOTO was the San Fran- to sit along with some members who cisco-based company’s cheapest have been shown receiving money transport option with a base fare of in return for lobbying,” said Moham- 15 rupees and a tariff of 3 rupees NEW DELHI/KOLKATA: A sting mad Salim of the CPI-M. EC warns Bengal govt to rectify in two per kilometre. “Uber, Ola and oth- operation allegedly showing several He urged the Lok Sabha speaker ers have not obtained permits from Trinamool Congress (TMC) leaders to call for the CDs from the portal the Road Transport Authority to accepting money in return for lob- which conducted the sting and order days ‘laxity’ in poll code enforcement offer bike taxi services,” Gowda bying for a private firm snowballed a probe. Salim was supported by Dar- said. “They have to get the req- into a major political row yesterday jeeling member S S Ahluwalia of the uisite permission and then carry both within and outside parliament. BJP and Bengal Congress unit chief IANS the April-May elections. monitor at the police station level and badges and yellow license plates, The issue figured prominently Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, who repre- Asked about the commission’s marshall all resources to bring these otherwise it is a serious viola- in the Lok Sabha during Zero Hour. sents Berhampore constituency. The stand on the purported sting oper- NBWs to their logical conclusion,” tion.” Yesterday, its app showed Much to the chagrin of poll- issue was also sought to be raised in ation carried out by a news portal Zaidi said. Zaidi directed that all flags, a “No MOTOs available” message bound West Bengal’s ruling the Rajya Sabha but Deputy Chair- KOLKATA: Talking tough, the Elec- that showed 11 Trinamool leaders banners, hoardings and photographs for UberMoto in the city. Ola’s app Trinamool Congress, the Bharatiya man P J Kurien said it can be raised tion Commission yesterday set a accepting bribes, Zaidi said: “We have displayed on government buildings, has stopped displaying the Ola- Janata Party (BJP) urged Governor K only after giving proper notice. The two-day deadline for West Bengal received representation (video) from public transport and bridges in vio- Bike option. N Tripathi for a CBI probe while the Lok Sabha proceedings during Zero officials to rectify violations of the political parties... we will get it exam- lation of the model code of conduct Both Uber and Ola are going Communist Party of India-Marxist Hour were also marked by exchange model code of conduct in some areas ined.. we will pass it on to the relevant will have to be removed within the head-to-head in the market, where (CPI-M) said any leader shown in the of heated words between TMC mem- for the coming assembly elections and authorities.” time frame. each is trying to dominate car- video footage should not be allowed bers like Saugata Roy and Sultan warned it would take a “serious view” The CEC expressed concern over “The Commission has noted some hailing and foraying into other to contest the assembly polls. Ahmed on one side and the likes of if ‘laxity’ in enforcing the poll code the “high pendency” of non-bailable laxity in the enforcement of the model vehicle segments. Ola also allows On the defensive, senior TMC Salim (CPI-M) and other Left mem- continued. warrants (NBWs) and issued strict code of conduct (MCC) in some areas customers to hail three-wheeler leader Mukul Roy termed the video bers and Chowdhury on the other. Laying stress on neutrality and directions to officials to ensure crim- and by some officials. We have taken auto rickshaws. Uber launched a footage “manufactured”. “It is a man- Parliamentary Affairs Minister M impartiality of the election machin- inals and anti-social elements do not note of it. We have directed those offi- three- wheeler hailing pilot for a ufactured video. There is a political Venkaiah Naidu said truth must pre- ery, Chief Election Commissioner roam freely and intimidate voters cials, particularly Kolkata Municipal few months in Gurgaon last year. motive behind all these,” he said. vail in the matter since it was related Nasim Zaidi said criminal action during the upcoming polls. “As many Corporation and other municipal cor- While Uber and Ola had their His party colleague MP Saugata to the conduct of the elected MPs. would be taken against anyone — as 89,000 non-bailable warrants poration areas where the laxity with business halted, other services are Roy alleged in the Lok Sabha: “There “The matter needs to be probed “official or non-official” — found against criminals have been executed regards to MCC was noted,” Zaidi said. still operating. is a political conspiracy against Tri- either by the government or by the indulging in “malpractices” with till February 29. We have directed dis- “There were flags, hoardings and Startup Ridingo has 400 two- namool by the three parties — BJP, Lok Sabha speaker to establish the regard to photo voter slips. trict officials that the pending 31,000 photographs being displayed on pub- wheelers registered on its app Congress and CPI-M — as they all are truth. Truth must prevail in the Zaidi met the media after the NBWs must be executed at the fast- lic transport, buildings, bridges, and and has worked closely with the going to lose the upcoming assem- case,” he said. “Some of the leaders full bench of the commission, which est pace. This will be reviewed at the we have given 48 hours to officials to local government to offer only bly elections.” shown in the video accepting bribes arrived on Monday, held detailed police station level also. remove such flags, banners, hoard- ride-sharing, rather than taxi serv- Pressing for its demand for Chief are contesting in the assembly polls. deliberations with political parties, “Such a high pendency of non- ings etc which have been displayed ices, until rules change. It doesn’t Minister Mamata Banerjee’s resigna- They should not be allowed to con- civil society members, top police and bailable warrants is rather not up to in violation of MCC, failing which the charge the driver, with its rides tion as well as a CBI probe into the test,” CPI-M leader Rabin Deb said administrative officers at state and the mark and we have directed that Commission will take a very serious costing 5 rupees per kilometer and scandal, the BJP organised a protest on Monday. district levels on issues concerning they would launch a special drive, view.” a 10-rupee booking charge.

Assam polls: Roadside eatery App to help you in emergency! First list by IANS it with some personal data includ- ing name and age, provide numbers Congress out of five of your friends and activate the SOS button in case of emergency, BENGALURU: Medikoe, an online Sreevalsan Menon, founder and CEO IANS platform to connect people with of Medikoe, said. healthcare and wellness service “Living independently in metro providers, has developed an app that cities these days can be risky for GUWAHATI/NEW DELHI: Assam can instantly alert five of your cho- older adults, senior citizens or ail- Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi will sen friends and the emergency care ing individuals. Moreover, we come contest from the Congress bastion unit of Manipal Hospital, Bengaluru, across cases of emergencies like of Titabar, according to the list of in case you face with an emergency. road accidents quite often. When we the first 65 candidates released by The new SOS (Sensor Observa- encounter, finding the right number the party yesterday. tion Service) feature on Medikoe’s to call in a hurry becomes tough,” The party is fielding former app allows the customer to alert five Menon said. The Medikoe app aims union minister Paban Singh Ghato- people about the medical emergency to fill this gap, he pointed out. war from Moran, while sitting including the geo-location, as well “By joining hands with a holis- member Rajib Lochan Pegu will as get automatically directed to the tic platform like Medikoe, we will take on BJP’s chief ministerial can- first level emergency consultation by be able to provide total monitored didate Sarbananda Sonowal from Manipal doctors, a statement said. emergency medical assistance Majuli, a reserved seat for tribals. If need be, they can also get during any crisis situation. Capital- The first list includes over 15 access to an ambulance rushed to izing on Medikoe’s wide reach, we new faces, while two sitting leg- the emergency location as fast as will also help the patients and com- islators were denied tickets. possible, the statement added. munity at large, save precious lives The party is fielding Bithika People eat their breakfast at a roadside shop outside the shrine of Nizamuddin Auliya in New Delhi To avail the service, all that one during the ‘golden hour’,” Sudarshan Dev, wife of party veteran San- yesterday. needs to do is to download the free Ballal, chariman, Manipal Health tosh Mohan Dev, from Silchar. app from Google Play store and feed Enterprises, said. The first and second phase of the Assam assembly elections will be held on April 4 and 11, respectively. Assam has a total of 126 assembly constituencies. Sit- Number of child workers declined 60% in 10 years: Govt ting legislator from Margherita Pradyut Bordoloi will contest from the same place while Arun Phu- kan is being fielded from Bokakhat Reuters “I gave a notice in the winter ses- million, out of 168 million globally. children. The government wants to Nobel Laureate Kailash Satyarthi, constituency. sion, but it could not be passed. This More than half work in agricul- change the current law, which bans have voiced concern over two excep- Prominent in the list are Chief session too, it could not be passed ture, toiling in cotton, sugarcane children under 14 from working in tions. Children who help their family Minister Gogoi from Titabor, former though I gave notice,” Dattatreya said. and rice paddy fields where they are only 18 hazardous occupations and in family businesses can work out- minister Gautam Roy from Katli- NEW DELHI: The number of child The amendments to the current often exposed to pesticides and risk 65 processes, such as mining, gem side school hours and holidays, and chera, ministers Girindra Mallik, labourers aged 14 or below in India law are scheduled to be presented injury from sharp tools and heavy cutting and cement manufacturing. those in entertainment or sports can Ajit Singh, Ajanta Neog, Bismita dropped to 4.5 million in 2011 from during this session of parliament equipment. At least a quarter work If passed by parliament, the work provided it does not affect their Gogoi, Speaker Pranab Kumar 12.6 million a decade before, said the which ends on May 8, with a recess in manufacturing — often confined changes will outlaw child labour education. Also, children aged 15 to 18 Gogoi, and Ghatowar. Two sitting labour minister, urging lawmakers to between March 21 and April 19. to poorly lit, barely ventilated rooms, below 14 in all sectors and include a will be barred from working in only legislators — Sarat Saikia (Mah- approve planned changes to existing Dattatreya’s figure, which is from embroidering clothes, weaving car- new category for those aged between three industries - mines, inflammable mora constituency) and Amiya legislation to curb the problem. India’s 2011 census, shows the number pets, making matchsticks or rolling 15 and 18 years old. substances and hazardous processes. Gogoi (Duliajan) — were denied Labour Minister Bandaru Dat- of child workers dropped by 64 per- beedi cigarettes. The amendments also double Satyarthi, whose charity Bach- tickets. While Saikia has retained tatreya told Lok Sabha yesterday cent over 10 years. Children also work in the serv- jail time for employing children to a pan Bachao Andolan is credited with Mahmora for the last three terms, that the government would amend a A February 2015 report by the ices sector — in shops, restaurants and maximum of two years and increase rescuing more than 80,000 enslaved Amiya Gogoi had won the seat in three-decade-old child labour prohi- International Labour Organization hotels, washing dishes and chopping the fine up to Rs50,000 ($745) from children, said the exemptions are 2011 by defeating BJP candidate bition law, and called on both houses puts the number of child workers in vegetables, or in middle-class homes, Rs20,000 ($300) currently. “regressive” and wants a total ban Rameswar Teli. of parliament to support its passage. India aged between five and 17 at 5.7 cleaning and looking after younger But child rights activists, including on all forms of child labour. 18 WEDNESDAY 16 MARCH 2016 INDIA

Oldest nuclear reactors near Mumbai may be shut down Dissidence in Manipur: Sonia Bloomberg said in a phone interview. They earn on the timing of a possible decom- a text message sent on his mobile improvements based on periodic Gandhi calls CM about 0.89rupees (1 cent) for every missioning, a process that can take phone. The boiling water reactors, reviews, according to India’s Atomic kilowatt hour of electricity produced, decades and generate thousands of which can produce 160 megawatts Energy Regulatory Board. Two other which isn’t enough to sustain opera- tons of radioactive waste. Nuclear each, were supplied by General Elec- reactors, 540 megawatts each, started IANS NEW DELHI: India may shut two of tions. Nuclear plants in India received Power Corp. the nation’s sole oper- tric Co and started operating in 1969, at Tarapur in 2005 and 2006. its oldest reactors almost five dec- an average tariff of 2.78rupees per kil- ator of nuclear power plants, may marking India’s foray into nuclear Tarapur 1 and 2 aren’t capable ades after they went into operation owatt hour in the year ended March approach the electricity regulator energy. India plans to raise atomic of in-service inspections, like some as power tariffs aren’t keeping pace 2015, according to the Department of for a tariff increase when operations power capacity more than ten-fold newer reactors, and need to be cooled IMPHAL: The dissidence in the with maintenance costs, according to Atomic Energy. become unsustainable, Basu said. by 2032 as part of its clean-energy down for safety inspections, which Congress in Manipur assumed a Sekhar Basu, secretary at the Depart- “We are pouring in money into the Nuclear Power spokesman N drive. The expansion plans have been are frequent, Basu said. One of the serious aspect yesterday when ment of Atomic Energy. reactors rather than making income Nagaich couldn’t be reached on his complicated by the nation’s liability two reactors has been offline since both Chief Minister Okram Ibobi The first two reactors at Tarapur, from them,” Basu said. “At the current office phone for a comment. Sanjeev law. The statute is borne out of con- Sept. 2015, according to a March 9 Singh and his deputy Gaikhangam about 100kilometrer (62miles) from tariff, it’s become unviable to run the Kumar, chairman at Maharash- cerns over nuclear safety. Central Electricity Authority report. Gangmei left for New Delhi follow- Mumbai at India’s western coast, suf- two reactors and we may be forced tra State Electricity Distribution Co, The nation’s older reactors, The reactors are under International ing party president Sonia Gandhi’s fer frequent maintenance shutdowns to shut them down if the tariff is not which buys power from the reactors, including the two at Tarapur, have Atomic Energy Agency’s safeguards summons to them. that make them unprofitable, Basu increased.” Basu didn’t provide details didn’t respond to phone calls and gone through “significant” safety and run on imported uranium. Gandhi last week met the representatives of the 25 dissi- dent Congress legislators and later decided that the situation in Manipur should be prevented Cultural ties from becoming a repeat of Aru- Lok Sabha gives nachal Pradesh where rebellion by Congress lawmakers brought down the Nabam Tuki government, said sources. The dissidents have made it nod to ‘historic’ known that they would change loyalty, either by joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) or forming a new party of their own, if their demands are not met, said real estate bill the sources. Ibobi Singh and Deputy Chief Minister Gangmei, who is also Manipur Pradesh Congress Com- Naidu said the bill was brought mittee president, refused to make ‘It is a historic in the house after consultation with any comment on the political several stake holders including the developments in the state before moment for the ministries of defence, civil aviation, leaving for New Delhi. country as we environment and consumer affairs. The dissidents are reported to Expressing satisfaction after have made two major demands in are fulfilling the members expressed their support their meeting with Sonia Gandhi. aspirations of the to the bill, he said: “It is a historic “First, we demanded dropping moment for the country as we are of those ministers who have failed people who wish to fulfilling the aspirations of the peo- to maintain transparency and own a house’. ple who wish to own a house, giving whose performances are below them the needed protection. The Indian film makers, Zee Entertainment Enterprises officials and Pakistani film directors Sabiha Sumar the mark. Secondly, one man bill will be giving credibility to real and Farjad Nabi speak on the set of the “Zeal For Unity” TV show near the Wagah border between one post policy should be there. estate sector also.” India and Pakistan yesterday. Gaikhangam should remain either IANS During the debate, Congress as a minister or the PCC president,” leader in Lok Sabha Malikarjun said one dissident legislator who Kharge extended his party’s support, declined to be named. saying: “We want to pass the bill.” Gangmei has been holding the NEW DELHI: The real estate bill RSP member N K Premchandran two posts for a long time. There pending before parliament since and RJD’s Jaiprakash Narain Yadav Catholics in Kerala upbeat over are indications that he would be 2013 was finally passed yesterday also supported it. allowed to continue in the two with the Lok Sabha giving its nod as BJD’s Kalikesh Singh Deo com- posts till the next state assembly members cutting across party lines plimented the government for Mother Teresa’s canonisation elections. backed it. Terming the development bringing the bill. The dissidents have also made “historic”, Urban Development Min- IUML’s E T Mohammad Basheer known their desire to be given a ister M Venkaiah Naidu asserted the also called it “a very good piece of shot at a ministry before Manipur new law will help bring down prop- legislation” but wondered whether IANS “This was an accepted fact, not just in 2008. Pope Francis had cleared goes to the polls in February 2017. erty prices. there will be clash with the central in India but across the world because the way in December for sainthood Under the statutory provisions, Members rising above party lines law as various states also have leg- of the yeomen service she did for the for Mother Teresa, a Nobel peace in a 60-member assembly the including from the Congress, the Biju islation in this regard. underprivileged. Its because the Cath- laureate. The Albania-born nun chief minister is allowed to have Janata Dal (BJD), the Revolutionary In his reply, Naidu stressed that THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The olic Church has a process through and missionary was by far the most a ministry of 12. To circumvent this Socialist Party (RSP), the Rashtriya the builders should fulfil the prom- Catholic community in Kerala was in which sainthood has to be cleared and high-profile of the five candidates for rule, some prominent legislators Janata Dal and the Indian Union ises they make to the flat buyers. upbeat mood after hearing the news hence it came now,” he said. sainthood considered by the Vatican have been appointed as parlia- Muslim League supported the Real “The builders will have to do that Mother Teresa would be canon- Paul Thelekkat, spokesperson of panel. Born Agnes Gonxha Bojaxhiu mentary secretaries with cabinet Estate (Regulation & Development) their duty. Parliament is not inter- ised on September 4. the Syro Malabar Church, said that on August 26, 1910, in Skopje, Mace- rank. “That is obviously not good Bill, which had been passed by the ested in interfering with their The Catholic Bishops Conference being the chaplain of Mother Teresa’s donia, she joined the Sisters of Loretto enough for them. Almost all of Rajya Sabha on March 10. activity. What you (builders) are of India president Cardinal Baselios convent in Ernakulum for 30 years, at the age of 17 and was sent to Cal- them want ministerial berths,” Replying to the debate on the bill committing, what you are promising, Mar Cleemis, in a statement, issued he was very happy to hear this news. cutta. There she later contracted said sources. in the lower house, Naidu assured fulfil that. This is the only purpose of said this is going to be a huge boost “She is most apt saint for India of tuberculosis, and was sent to rest in At the time of forming his that the government is also open to this real estate bill,” he said. to all those who are involved in care the present era. Her saintliness was Darjeeling. On the way, she felt what ministry in 2012 for the third con- discuss with the builders if they have The minister also said that he giving. “This not only brings a lot of not only mystical but heaven cen- she called an order from God to leave secutive term, Chief Minister Ibobi any issue with the bill. will write to all the chief minis- joy to the millions of Indians cut- tred humanism where every human the convent and live among the poor. Singh assured the Congress Leg- “We are not against builders. If ters requesting them to give speedy ting across religions but also hope to person especially the poor, forgotten After she left her convent, Mother islature Party (CLP) members that there are problem with the builders, clearances to the real estate projects the crores of destitute and orphans marginalised presented the wounded Teresa began working in the slums, at the end of two and a half years, I am ready to discuss it with them in their states. across the world. I also greet all at face of the crucified Christ,” he said. teaching poor children, and treating there would be a major reshuffle to anytime,” he said, adding the speedy A major benefit for consumers the Missionaries of Charities who are Indian Catholics have three the sick in their homes. accommodate some of them. land clearances for the real estate proposed in the bill is that build- doing a wonderful job,” he said. native saints — Kuriakose Elias Cha- Teresa was awarded the Nobel Ibobi Singh found that it was projects will help in bringing down ers will have to quote prices based Dr Joshua Mar Ignathios, the Met- vara, popularly known as Chavara Peace Prize for her work with the easier said than done. “That prom- prices of the houses. on carpet area and not super built- ropolitan Bishop of the Eparchy of Achen, and Sister Euphrasia, popu- poor, sick, old and lonely in the slums ise was never kept,” said one of the “I say you will get more invest- up area, while carpet area has been Mavelikkara of the Syro-Malankara larly known as Evuprasiamma, both of Kolkata. She died on September 5, dissidents. The incumbent min- ment, you will get early clearances clearly defined in the bill to include Catholic Church, said that accord- of whom were canonised in 2014 1997, and was beatified just six years isters have been fire-fighting by and the property prices will come usable spaces like kitchen and ing to him Mother Teresa was a ‘saint’ and Sister Alphonsa became the later by Pope John Paul II on Octo- promising sops to the dissident down.” toilets. even when she was alive. first native Indian to be canonised ber 19, 2003. leaders.

Ex-Maharashtra JNU protest Apex Court orders protection CM sent to two for adopted children days custody Reuters has to be transparent. It should ensure welfare of the child,” the IANS Supreme Court order said, add- NEW DELHI: India’s top court has ing that guidelines must be drawn ordered the government to draw up up within three months. The court MUMBAI: A court yesterday strong guidelines for screening and issued the order after the Bangalore- sent former Maharashtra deputy tracking adoptions after a charity based Advait Foundation alleged the chief minister Chhagan Bhujbal, appealed for a federal probe into existence of child adoption rackets who was arrested on corruption allegations that adopted children involving both Indian and foreign charges, to two days custody of were being abused. adoption agencies. the Enforcement Directorate (ED). Parliament passed a law in Jan- Kunal Cheema, a lawyer repre- The ED had interrogated the uary aimed at streamlining the senting the charity, said it wanted senior Nationalist Congress Party adoption of orphaned and aban- the court to order the Central Bureau leader for nearly 11 hours on Mon- doned children, but the rules have of Investigation (CBI) to probe such day in the various corruption cases not yet been framed by the respon- rackets, but the court dismissed the against him and arrested late night. sible body, the Central Adoption plea, asking for specific evidence. Charged under provisions Research Agency, CARA. “To prevent the infringement of under the Prevention of Money “We hope and trust the author- the fundamental right to life of mil- Laundering Act (PMLA), he was ities concerned take speedy steps. lions of Indian children, who have produced by the ED before a Spe- Children are to be protected against become amenable to kidnapping or cial PMLA Court yesterday which abuse and trafficking,” a three-judge abandonment, a thorough impartial granted the ED 2-day custody bench headed by Chief Justice Tirath CBI probe is required,” Cheema told to interrogate him. ED counsel Singh Thakur said. the Thomson Reuters Foundation. Hiten Vengaonkar said that Bhu- “The interest of children, Government data show that Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) students and their supporters shout slogans as they participate in a jbal failed to cooperate when his whether it is intra-country or 4,362 Indian children were adopted statement was being recorded by protest march in New Delhi, yesterday. The protesters were demanding the immediate release of students. inter-country adoptions, has to be within and outside the country in the the agency on Monday. protected. The process of adoption year to end-March 2015. EUROPE / UK WEDNESDAY 16 MARCH 2016 19

Cameron aide warns of complacency in referendum

European Union, as an opinion poll but the outcome of the referendum to vote, were undecided. “The Rock has protected key trade yesterday gave the ‘Out’ campaign a is not currently important enough to Meanwhile, Gibraltar Chief Min- routes and British interests for centu- The campaign has a 2 percentage point lead. them to motivate them to show up,” ister Fabian Picardo yesterday said ries. We are part of the great British long way to run, and The ORB poll for The Daily Tel- Crosby said. a British vote to leave the Euro- family. Gibraltar will be voting to stay egraph showed 49 percent of “This demonstrates the con- pean Union would be a “disaster” for in the EU,” said Picardo. despite what voters respondents would vote to leave the sequence of the outcome lacking Gibraltar, leaving the British territory Spanish Foreign Minister Jose currently believe, EU in a June 23 referendum while personal relevance to them.” open to “undemocratic” advances Manuel Garcia-Margallo said ear- the outcome really 47 percent wanted to stay in the Crosby said the poll showed a from Spain. lier this month that if Britain left the 28-country bloc. third of voters who were undecided Picardo, writing in The Times, European Union “the next day we will is in the balance, Among those who definitely plan or likely to change their mind said that urged voters in the June 23 referen- talk about Gibraltar”, which is home said Prime Minister’s to vote, support for leaving rose to 52 immigration was the issue preventing dum to stay in the union so that the to about 30,000 people and has been percent against 45 percent to stay. them from voting to stay in. 6.7-square-kilometre territory off governed by Britain since 1713 but is election strategist Sterling weakened against the Crosby said the ‘Out’ campaign Spain’s southern coast could continue claimed by Spain. Lynton Crosby. dollar on the poll, falling 0.8 percent had a different challenge: half of such to protect “key trade routes and British Picardo accused Garcia-Margallo to $1.4187. voters think Britain will remain inside interests. The EU, though not perfect, of adding “fuel to the fire.” “The real risk for the Remain the EU so they are sceptical their vote makes sure there is free movement “Margallo has told officials pri- campaign is complacency,” Crosby, can influence the outcome. of people, services and goods. All vately that he would happily close the Agencies who helped Cameron unexpectedly “Leave voters still do not believe these are critical to us in Gibraltar,” border and publicly said that he would win an outright victory in a national their vote can affect the outcome, he wrote. expect a revival of the failed Blair- election last year, said in an article in their engagement and motivation “It would be a disaster if the bor- Aznar joint-sovereignty plan for the the newspaper. Analysing the ORB poll, Crosby may tail off,” Crosby said. der were closed.” Rock,” he wrote. LONDON: Prime Minister David “What is clear is that this cam- said 76 percent of ‘In’ voters expected The poll of 823 people, inter- He cited a recent British govern- “Gibraltar, and British public opin- Cameron’s election strategist Lyn- paign has a long way to run, and Britain to stay in the bloc but that a viewed by telephone between March ment paper that warned “if the UK left ion, defeated that undemocratic ploy ton Crosby (pictured) yesterday said despite what voters currently believe, quarter of them were unlikely to vote. 11 and March 14, found that 4 per- the EU, there would be no certainty with a referendum in 2002.” complacency was the biggest risk for the outcome really is in the balance,” “It is obvious they have a prefer- cent of respondents overall, and 3 that the border (with Spain) would Polls in Britain have the “Remain” the campaign to keep Britain in the Crosby added. ence for the UK to remain in the EU, percent of those definitely planning remain open.” camp as slight favourites.

Royal couple in Croatia Court summons PEGIDA leader Breivik files lawsuit

BERLIN: The founder of Germa- ny’s xenophobic and anti-Islam against Norway group PEGIDA has been sum- moned to court on hate speech charges for describing refugees AFP lawyers for the victims’ families as “cattle” and “scum”, a court in in his 2012 trial. The Nazi salute Dresden said. appears to confirm the belief that Lutz Bachmann, 43, was he has radicalised in prison, having charged with inciting hatred in SKIEN PRISON, NORWAY: Mass recently described himself as a “mil- October for a series of widely murderer Anders Behring Breivik itant nationalist”. shared posts on the PEGIDA made a Nazi salute yesterday as his In a letter October 27, 2014, he Facebook page, which stands for lawsuit opened against Norway over said he had pledged his “allegiance “Patriotic Europeans Against the his prison conditions, confirming to national socialism”. Islamisation of the Occident”. fears he would use it to grandstand Breivik has in the past likened The court said Bachmann’s his extremist views. his prison conditions to “torture”. comments “disrupted public order” Despite the theatrical entrance, Now, the 37-year-old is suing and constituted an “attack on (the Breivik’s lawyer Oystein Storrvik the state for breaching two clauses refugees’) dignity”. insisted the suit, which contends his of the European Convention on PEGIDA started life in October prison isolation constitutes “inhu- Human Rights, one which prohibits 2014 as a Facebook group. man” treatment, was necessary “inhuman or degrading treatment Interest subsequently began because his client would likely be or punishment”, and one which to wane following Bachmann’s spending the rest of his life behind guarantees the right of respect overtly racist comments and the the bars. for “private and family life” and Britain’s Prince Charles (centre) and his wife Camilla (front left), the Duchess of Cornwall, at a traditional surfacing of “selfies” in which he “This case is about something “correspondence”. market in Osijek, Croatia, yesterday. sported a Hitler-style moustache much more than what many peo- In opening remarks, his lawyer and hairstyle. ple think, just a lawsuit brought to stressed the frequent use of hand- allow Breivik back into the spotlight cuffs and hundreds of strip-searches to explain himself,” Storrvik said. his client had been subjected to in “This case is simply about his the Ila prison near Oslo where he detention conditions for the rest of was held until September 2013. 12 die in fire Government formation talks between his life,” he said in the makeshift But his main complaint concerns courtroom set up in the gymnasium his isolation. Since his arrest on July at Russian of the Skien prison where the killer 22, 2011, Breivik has been held apart is being held and where a climbing from the rest of the prison popula- Ireland’s parties premature: Minister wall, two basketball hoops and exer- tion and his contacts with the outside rehab centre cise bars were visible. world strictly controlled. Breivik is serving a maximum Prison officials censor his mail Reuters Fianna Fail as its only realistic part- “The talks this week are to see if 21-year sentence for killing eight to prevent him from establishing an AFP ner with which to form a government, we can find enough common ground people in a bomb attack outside a “extremist network”, according to but many in both parties strongly to put together a broad-based minor- government building in Oslo in July authorities, and his rare visits are resist such an unprecedented tie-up. ity that could then get the support of 2011, then murdering another 69 almost exclusively with profession- MOSCOW: Twelve people died DUBLIN: It is premature for Ireland’s Fine Gael and Fianna Fail, the Dail (parliament).” people, most of them teenagers, in als behind a glass partition. overnight as a fire swept through two main parties to discuss forming a whose rivalry dates back almost Kenny and Fianna Fail leader a rampage at a Labour Youth camp The only exception in five years a rehab centre with barred win- government together, a senior minis- a century to the civil war, have Micheal Martin, whose party has on the island of Utoya. was a five-minute meeting in 2013 dows in central Russia, police said ter said yesterday, as talks on the only not discussed the prospect of any seven fewer seats than Fine Gael’s His prison sentence can be with his mother during which they yesterday. option analysts say can break a polit- kind of alliance and instead have 50 in the 157-seat chamber, both lost extended if he is still considered a hugged, shortly before she died from The bodies of 12 people, two ical deadlock continue to be put off. been trying to garner support from votes for prime minister by a wide danger to society. cancer, Storrvik told the court. of them women, were found in the Ireland became one of several smaller parties and independent margin last week. Another vote is Breivik entered the courtroom, Breivik is suffering “clear dam- residential building in the mainly euro zone countries with fractured lawmakers. expected on April 6. turned toward the media present and age” from his isolation, according to Muslim Bashkortostan region, the parliaments on February 26 as vot- “There is real talking happen- Varadkar, who acknowledged extended his right arm. On several Storrvik, who cited memory loss and regional Investigative Committee, ers ousted caretaker prime minister ing at the moment and it is with the a caretaker government could only occasions during his 2012 trial, he an inability to focus on his studies. which probes serious crimes, said Enda Kenny’s coalition from power independents, the smaller parties, it’s operate for a few weeks, dismissed made a variation of the Nazi salute “Put simply, Breivik is an in a statement. without opting for a clear alternative. premature I think at this stage to be Fianna Fail’s position that whichever by holding his closed right fist to his extremely dangerous man,” coun- “They are believed all to be Kenny’s Fine Gael party remained talking to Fianna Fail,” Health Min- party wins the most backing in that heart and then extending his arm. tered Marius Emberland, the lawyer members of a social rehabilitation the biggest party but fell well short of ister Leo Varadkar of Fine Gael told vote would have the right to lead any “Incredibly provocative,” reacted from office of the attorney general centre. Their identities are being a majority, leaving its historic rival broadcaster RTE. negotiations between the two parties. Berit Reiss-Andersen, one of the defending the state. established,” investigators said. Residents said the single-story building in the town of Sterli- tamak, about 1,200km east of Moscow, housed a private drug Paris auction house porters Commemorating Hungarian revolution rehabilitation centre, ProUfu.ru regional news website reported. An emergency situations offi- on trial for stealing valuables cial said the windows “could not be opened from inside or were bolted.” The bodies had “no vis- AFP porters—known as “Les Savoyards” ible injuries”, investigators said. as all members of the group came “Based on the appearance of from the Alpine region of Savoie. the bodies, they died from car- Raids uncovered a mountain of bon monoxide poisoning,” head PARIS: Porters from Paris’ most treasures, including precious jew- of emergency service in Bashko- famous auction house went on trial, els and antique furniture, that went rtostan, Marat Latypov, said. accused of systematically stealing 250 missing—and the lavish lifestyle of Head of Bashkortostan region, tonnes of valuable antiques, jewels and the porters. One apparently drove Rustem Khamitov, said the victims artworks, including a Chagall paint- a Porsche 911 and the latest BMW were undergoing work therapy to ing and rare Ming dynasty porcelain. cabriolet, while another allegedly get rid of “harmful habits”. Around 40 “Col Rouge” (red col- bought a Paris bar with the fruits if He called for an investigation lars), named after their uniforms, his spoils. into why the “12 people were living along with six auctioneers from The porters are accused of in a small room with barred win- Hotel Drouot auction house are on pilfering objects sent by the auc- dows and a metal door.” trial for charges of gang-related tion house to clear the homes of The fire was reported at 3am theft, conspiracy to commit a crime wealthy people after their deaths, Moscow time and took almost two or handling stolen goods. taking items that weren’t listed in the hours to extinguish. The case against the employ- inventory. Some items were appar- Russia frequently sees deadly ees was launched in 2009 after an ently then sold at auction. fires at state-run facilities for the anonymous tip alerted investiga- According to the prosecution, the elderly or those with mental ill- tors to a Gustave Courbet painting practice—known as “la yape” which Dancers of a Hungarian State Folk Ensemble perform in front of National Museum of Budapest during ness, which often have bars on that disappeared while being means “theft” in Savoie slang—was the official commemoration of 168th anniversary of Hungarian revolution and independence war, windows and locked doors and transported in 2003. Investigators endemic and profits were shared yesterday. are located in isolated areas. allege institutionalised theft by the among the group. 20 WEDNESDAY 16 MARCH 2016 EUROPE

Cyprus threatens EU executive to block EU-Turkey deal delays asylum NICOSIA: Tiny Cyprus yesterday threatened to derail a proposed EU deal with Turkey to end Europe’s migration crisis, warning it would not be pressured into dropping proposals longstanding disagreements with Ankara. EU president Donald Tusk held diplomats had urged delay on Com- hastily arranged talks in Nicosia in mission President Jean-Claude an attempt to win Cyprus’s back- The delay is being Juncker in order to avoid opening ing for the proposal, which has reportedly caused to new disputes among national gov- been hailed as a “game-changer” ernments until after the delicate for countries buckling under the avoid opening up of process of concluding the Turkish burden of a mass refugee influx. new controversy on accord. But is a growing pushback The Commission is scheduled to against the deal, with France the issue. propose legislation on the asylum and the Czech Republic warn- rules late next month and officials ing against attempts by Turkey to say it is likely before that to suggest “blackmail” Europe. Reuters various options to states. Cypriot President Nicos Anas- Italy and Germany, respectively tasiades said his country would not a main entry point for people reach- accept “Turkish demands without ing Europe and the main destination Refugees and migrants line up to recieve food outside the temporary refugee facilities at the port of Piraeus, (the) implementation of Turkey’s BRUSSELS: The EU executive has for refugees, have pushed jointly for near Athens, Greece, yesterday. long-pending obligations.” delayed making public its propos- asylum decisions to be made at a als for reform of Europe’s asylum European level and for refugees to system, seeking to avoid opening be brought directly and safely into new controversy as national lead- Europe to be resettled across the bloc. ers try to finalise a deal with Turkey Italy, should under the Dublin Macedonia sends 1,500 migrants back to Greece to slow migration. rules have prevented the movement The European Commission had of thousands of people towards Ger- been scheduled to issue a first offi- many and handled claims locally Reuters Monday or overnight on trucks. forces. About 30 reporters were also refugees that brought more than a cial statement on its proposals after as the first EU state entered. But Greece’s Deputy Defence Minister detained. million people fleeing war and pov- its weekly meeting today, on the eve in practice Italy and Greece have Dimitris Vitsas said he could neither A second group of about 600 erty in the Middle East and beyond to of a two-day summit of national turned a blind eye to people going confirm nor deny the reports. migrants was prevented from cross- the EU since early 2015. leaders who hope to seal their ini- north. SKOPJE: Macedonia has sent about Reporters and aid officials on the ing into Macedonia and many of them They are due to hold a new sum- tial deal with Ankara on Friday. Rome and Berlin have spo- 1,500 migrants and refugees who scene said the migrants had been left spent night camping in the Greek mit with Turkey this week to seal The Commissioners will dis- ken for a permanent system by crossed the border on Monday back at the Greek border and that there mountains. an agreement intended to halt the cuss migration, a spokeswoman which those seeking asylum are to Greece, Macedonian police said were migrants on both the Greek At least 12,000 people, includ- exodus. said yesterday, including the Turk- shared among 28 member states. yesterday. and Macedonian sides of the border. ing thousands of children, have been Greek Prime Minister Alexis ish deal. But possible changes to the But other states they do not want Most of the migrants, who The 1,500 migrants hiked for stranded in the Idomeni camp, their Tsipras said yesterday there was “no “Dublin” rules on national respon- to alter a status quo that gives the marched out of the Idomeni transit hours along muddy paths and path to the EU blocked after Mace- chance” border shutdowns through- sibility for asylum claims wouldn’t first EU country entered by a would- camp in northern Greece on Mon- forded a swollen river to get around donia and other nations closed their out the Balkans would be lifted and be published until April 6. be refugee the prime responsibility day and got around a border fence, the border fence where they were borders. European Union leaders are urged refugees to move to reception Senior EU officials and for dealing with them. had been taken back to Greece on detained by Macedonian security trying to stem a flow of migrants and centres set up by the state. Ukraine passes Slovak PM Fico says closer to forming coalition govt bill for visa-free Reuters minister with a tough task in forming believed he could agree on the prior- Fico however, did not give more The four-party grouping would travel to EU a coalition among opposition factions. ities of a new governing programme. details. The 51-year-old leader cam- have 85 votes in the 150-seat par- Fico’s odds improved over the “The result of today’s long and paigned against allowing in any large liament. However, three lawmakers weekend when centrist party Siet difficult negotiations is a draft of pro- numbers of migrants from the Middle from Siet already said they would AFP BRATISLAVA: Slovak Prime Minister (Net) and another opposition party, gramme priorities ... that would serve East and beyond, and has sued the leave the party in protest over team- Robert Fico moved closer to breaking Most-Hid (Bridge), agreed to negoti- as basis for cooperation of the four European Union over a decision to ing up with rival Smer, weakening an election stalemate after agreeing ate with him, reversing their earlier parties in forming a government,” Fico relocate hundreds of asylum-seek- Fico’s coalition even before it is offi- KIEV: Ukraine’s parliament a draft of priorities for a new govern- opposition. The change of heart came told journalists. ers to Slovakia. cially formed. yesterday approved a vital anti- ing programme in coalition talks with after the Slovak National Party (SNS) “We focused on programme Fico’s Smer party lost 34 of its Analysts say the budding coali- corruption bill that Kiev hopes will rival parties. said it would not join talks on forming overlaps because there are four par- current 83 seats as voters responded tion may clash in some areas but is open the way for visa-free travel Eight parties won seats in a March a broad right-wing coalition because ties with different views and values. to opposition campaigning against likely to prove more stable than the to EU countries this year. 5 election in which Fico’s leftist Smer of fears of instability. Despite long and difficult negotiations corruption and shortcomings in alternative of a large centre-right coa- The legislation establishes party garnered the most votes but lost Taking a break in talks that we did not find issues or questions healthcare and education, while tak- lition that would have to pull in a few public oversight over the assets of majority, leaving the two-time prime lasted nearly nine hours, Fico said he that divide us.” ing the same line on immigration. novice parties. high-ranking officials and their relatives. They now have to file electronic declarations of their income and holdings and face criminal liability for any inaccu- Fallas festival Shots fired at cops during rate or falsified information. The data will be available for public scrutiny online. search linked to Paris attacks Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko vetoed an earlier ver- sion of the bill that pushed back AFP condition. Witnesses reported a the asset declarations until 2017. heavy exchange of fire that lasted “Parliament did everything several minutes, RTL radio said. for Ukrainians to travel to Europe People in two schools and two without visas this year”, Porosh- BRUSSELS: Shots were fired yester- nurseries near the scene were enko tweeted after lawmakers day at Belgian police in the capital asked to remain indoors and the passed the measure by an over- Brussels as they carried out an oper- security cordon around the area whelming 278-2 margin. ation linked to the Paris attacks, was extended, the local mayor’s Ukraine’s 2014 pro-EU rev- Belgian prosecutors said. office said. olution was driven in part by The raid comes as Belgian police The incident took place across widespread discontent over the continue hunt for Salah Abdeslam—a the street from an Audi auto fac- corruption that enriched senior key suspect in the November attacks tory and the train lines leading to the officials of a succession of previous which killed 130 people. Gare du Midi railway station where governments. There was no imme- “Police were fired at,” Eric Van Eurostar trains to London and Tha- diate response to the Ukrainian Der Sypt, a spokesman for the fed- lys trains to Paris run from. parliament’s vote from Brussels. eral prosecutor, said, adding the Two weeks after the Paris The former Soviet country search was “linked to the Paris attacks Brussels was put on five had spent years negotiating a free attacks investigation”. days of lockdown with authorities travel agreement with the Euro- Two suspects were on the run warning of an imminent threat of pean Union. But the EU states after the incident, the Derniere violence. had set a number of conditions Child ‘ninot’ or wooden sculpture are displayed at City Hall square in Valencia, eastern Spain, yesterday. Heure newspaper reported. Since mid-November, 11 people on Kiev that included the adop- Parodic huge papier-mache, cardboard and wooden sculptures called ‘fallas’ are set up in Valencia Two Belgian police officers have been arrested and charged in tions of the so-called “electronic for the festival that will end on March 19. were injured with one hit in the ear Belgium in connection with the kill- declarations” law. as well as the head and in serious ings and eight are still in detention. Energy giants challenge German nuclear phase-out plans in court

AFP Court to rule that the move was an shutter the other nine by 2022. green energy, much of it produced about whether you are for or against plants first went into operation. expropriation of their assets. The move, shortly before key by wind and solar plants operated nuclear power. “The question is sim- Safely decommissioning all the They hope that would bolster regional elections, marked a sharp by households, small businesses and ply: do we have the right, overnight, to plants and storing their radioactive damages claims they have already reversal for Merkel, who had previ- municipalities. deprive people... of their assets with- parts and waste will cost around KARLSRUHE, GERMANY: Three launched in lower regional courts ously overturned a phase-out ordered The glut of government-subsidised out compensation?” €50bn, experts estimate. energy giants yesterday went to Ger- where they are reportedly demand- by an earlier government in 2002 and renewable power has led to a collapse E.ON this month said it suffered Industry observers say the com- many’s top court to challenge the ing at least €15bn ($16 billion) in extended the lifespan of Germany’s in wholesale electricity prices. a seven-billion-euro net loss in 2015, panies hope to use a favourable decision by Chancellor Angela Mer- separate cases. Merkel’s govern- nuclear fleet until 2036. The companies filed the first of a blaming in part the massive write- court ruling as leverage in parallel kel’s government to phase out nuclear ment in the days after the March 11, Today, eight of Germany’s 17 spate of legal cases in 2012. downs on the value of its electricity talks on state aid for decommis- power after the Fukushima disaster 2011 earthquake, tsunami and subse- nuclear plants remain in operation. The chief of Germany’s biggest plants. sioning the atomic plants. However, five years ago. quent Fukushima reactor meltdowns The energy companies have power company E.ON, Johannes Critics argue that the big energy Environment Minister Barbara Hen- Energy giants E. ON, RWE and Swe- decided to halt operations of Germa- booked heavy losses amid the Teyssen, told the Constitutional companies benefited from massive dricks said that “the government den’s Vattenfall want the Constitutional ny’s eight oldest nuclear plants and to nuclear phase-out and shift towards Court: “This is not a political issue or state subsidies when the nuclear will not agree to any deals”. AMERICAS WEDNESDAY 16 MARCH 2016 21 Millions vote in ‘Titanic Tuesday’ primary

“Titanic Tuesday.” battleground for Republicans intent For Republicans, the day may on stopping Trump’s drive to amass Blue collar woes, tell whether Trump can ride a tide of the 1,237 delegates needed to win the immigration, trade voter anger all the way to the Repub- party nomination outright, up from lican nomination in July, or whether the 471 he has taken so far. and the specter he will face a hostile and bitterly But Trump’s incendiary attacks of violent protests divided party at a contested nomi- on immigrants, with threats of mass nation convention. deportations and a wall on the bor- dominated the For Democrats, the contests in der with Mexico appeal even to debate ahead of the the racially diverse, industrial Mid- some Democrats like 69-year-old primaries in Florida, west will test Clinton’s electability Katharine Berry. outside of the South where African “We don’t need all these illegals,” Ohio, Illinois, Missouri American voters have given her vic- she said outside a polling station at and North Carolina. tory after victory. the Zion Lutheran Church in Can- Her rival, Vermont Senator Bernie ton. “They’re taking our jobs, they’ve Sanders, has denounced her support got all these rights, Americans don’t of free trade pacts in a part of the have rights.” “I’m a Democrat, I voted AFP country that has seen manufactur- Democrat today. But if Trump wins ing jobs disappear as entire industries then I’m going to vote for him” in the People cast their votes at a polling place in Stark County, in Beach City, Ohio, yesterday. have moved offshore. general election,” she said. The election will show whether Cruz supporter Michael Oleg, said, CANTON, UNITED STATES: Ameri- the Sanders campaign has legs, “We’re seeing a lot of Trump sway. Ohio’s struggling economy, which he a scathing ad in Ohio and Florida lead in winner-take-all Florida, the cans in five states voted yesterday in complicating Clinton’s shot at the You’re seeing the frustration thing.” hopes will give him his first primary and on national cable television that biggest prize of the day with 99 presidential primaries crucial to the Democratic nomination. Campaigning in Ohio, Trump victory. shows women reading out misogynis- delegates. White House hopes of frontrunners In Canton, voters made their way has pitched his candidacy not to the He decries Trump’s belligerent tic remarks Trump has made. In Florida, his closest competi- Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton through the drizzle and dark to cast core Republican electorate but to blue rhetoric and turbulent rallies as “dis- Asked on NBC if he’d like to take tor was Rubio, for whom a loss in his but that have also showcased the ballots when polls opened in one of collar workers, attacking free trade graceful, frankly.” “I mean, we’re not back any of the comments, Trump home state is likely to signal his exit deep-seated discontent of a down- the most closely watched races of deals and the loss of jobs to foreign a country that spends its time slug- replied: “Let me tell you, every sin- from the race. Cruz has been Trump’s trodden working class. the day. competitors. ging each other in the aisles or where gle poll of every single state I’ve won, nearest competitor in Illinois, Missouri Blue collar woes, immigration, Ohio Governor John Kasich is the In an interview with NBC News the people who want to lead the coun- of which I’ve won, you know, a vast and North Carolina. trade and the specter of violent pro- home state favourite in the Repub- as polls opened yesterday, Trump try are insulting every group that he majority, but every single poll coming Clinton also went into the elec- tests dominated the debate ahead of lican race, running just ahead of said: “They hate the fact their coal faces,” said on ABC News. out, the exit polls, I lead with women.” tions with huge leads in Florida and the primaries in Florida, Ohio, Illi- Trump in pre-election polls and well and steel industries are gone. I think “I’m sure people are shaking their Pre-election polls showed Trump North Carolina, but with potentially nois, Missouri and North Carolina, ahead of Texas Senator Ted Cruz and we’re going to do well in Ohio.” heads, saying, what’s happening to leading by substantial margins in all closer races in Ohio, Illinois, and elections so key to the shape of the Florida Senator Marco Rubio. Kasich, an upbeat study in con- America?” primaries except Ohio. Missouri where Sanders has gained Republican and Democratic nomi- Ohio, is a winner-take-all state trasts with Trump, has campaigned A Republican committee, or so- The races were closer in the Mid- strength amid the anti-status quo nating races some have dubbed it with 66 delegates, making it a crucial on his record of turning around called super PAC, meanwhile aired west but Trump had nearly a 20-point mood of the electorate. Woman appeals deportation to rights body Brazil’s ex-President Lula

Reuters would violate international human center who is handling her case. She said she had to close her to accept cabinet post rights law, arguing she was denied The woman, who is 39 years old small store in a hamlet outside of her right to seek asylum. They have and came to the United States in the coastal town of La Union because asked the commission to take pre- November, said her family was tar- gang members constantly extorted Reuters revert dwindling support for the CHICAGO: A woman from El Sal- cautionary measures, directing the geted after her oldest son refused to her for products and cash, and tried government. Lula is under inves- vador who says she was threatened US not to deport her and El Salvador join a gang. The older boy fled to the to make her take food to gang mem- tigation on suspicion he benefited by gangs that murdered her son not to issue travel documents to facil- United States and her youngest son bers in jail. from the massive graft scandal that petitioned the Inter-American Com- itate the deportation. was murdered by gang members Because of the violence in Cen- BRASILIA: Brazil’s former Presi- has ensnared dozens of corporate mission on Human Rights yesterday The woman is one of tens of when he was 16. tral America, many immigrants from dent Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has leaders and politicians in Rousseff’s to halt her deportation to her home thousands of people from El Salva- “I can’t return to El Salvador, I’m those countries are allowed to stay in decided to accept a position in Pres- governing coalition. country from Missouri, where she is dor, Honduras and Guatemala who scared that they will torture me or kill the United States while they seek resi- ident Dilma Rousseff’s Cabinet, a Accepting a Cabinet post would detained. have fled to the United States in recent me, because that’s what they do after dency. But this woman did not get that presidency source said yesterday, transfer any charges against Lula Lawyers for advocacy group the years, some seeking refuge from ram- they threaten a person. They take opportunity because the immigration a move that would offer some pro- from Federal Judge Sergio Moro National Immigrant Justice Centre are pant gang violence, others seeking you to a vacant lot and make you dig officer who interviewed her said she tection from an investigation into to Brazil’s Supreme Court. Moro representing the woman and say she economic opportunity. your own grave,” she told reporters did not establish a credible threat. An money laundering. was given jurisdiction to rule over did not get a proper chance to tell the “The interview was woefully from the jail in Missouri where she is immigration judge upheld that deci- The source said it was likely that money laundering charges presented US immigration officials about her inadequate for eliciting the infor- being held. She asked not to be named sion. The woman said she was scared Lula, an able negotiator, would take against the former president. fears for her life if she is returned to mation necessary to assess whether because she is scared of retaliation at the time of the interview. She had charge of legislative affairs, where Brazil’s Attorney General Jose El Salvador. she had a bona fide claim to asylum,” both from gangs and her former part- no lawyer at that time and said she he could leverage close ties to Con- Eduardo Cardozo denied the govern- The lawyers said her deportation said Mark Fleming, a lawyer from the ner who she says abused her. did not understand the process. gressmen from the ruling Workers ment was trying to shield Lula from Party. Lula’s appointment as minister prosecution and said there were no was seen by government critics as a legal or political impediments for last-ditch attempt by the unpopular him to join the Cabinet. Man jailed for 150 Rousseff, who is struggling with an “Lula is not fleeing from justice. Show of strength economic recession and impeach- There is no attempt of any sort to years for abusing ment proceedings in Congress, to shield him,” Cardozo told reporters. hold together her divided coalition Moro, the federal judge, has government. arrested dozens of people for ques- girls in Russia Earlier, O Globo newspaper tioning and held many for months reported that Lula had informed as he investigates a trail of bribery, several of his advisers that he would price-fixing and kickbacks that AFP accept a Cabinet post, ahead of a started at state-controlled oil com- meeting with Rousseff in Brasilia. pany Petroleo Brasileiro SA. Brazil’s benchmark Bovespa In a new blow to Rousseff’s gov- LOS ANGELES: A Los Angeles stock index fell more than 4 per- ernment, Brazil’s Supreme Court man was sentenced to 150 years cent and the Brazilian currency accepted a plea agreement by a in prison for physically exploiting weakened 2.5 percent against the Workers’ Party senator, Delcídio do a 12-year-old girl while in Russia US dollar on the news. Amaral, in the Petrobras scandal. and vowing to sever her head if she Investors, who have long blamed The corruption allegations went to authorities. Rousseff for erratic policies they against Lula have also deepened US District Judge Otis Wright believe hurt the economy, had ral- the political crisis for Rousseff, called Yusef Abramov, 58, “the lied behind Brazilian assets in recent who faced massive demonstrations ultimate predator” in handing days because of the increasing likeli- on Sunday calling for her ouster for down the sentence. hood that she might be ousted. leading Brazil into its worst reces- According to the charge sheet, Lula was president from 2003- sion in 25 years. Abramov, who has dual US and 2010 when the Brazilian economy Rousseff’s main coalition part- Russian citizenship, preyed on was riding on a global commodi- ner, the PMDB party, whose leaders schoolgirls during repeated vis- ties boom. He remains Brazil’s most in Congress are also being inves- its to Russia. influential politician. tigated for corruption, has been In June 2009, he physically But his return to government moving toward a break with her exploited a 12-year-old girl and could lead to increased spending government and support for her threatened to decapitate her and Judges from Rio de Janeiro demonstrate in support of federal judge Sergio Moro, the chief investigating in the midst of a fiscal crisis. Lula impeachment, which would put its play soccer with her head if she judge in the Petrobras scandal, at the Justice Museum in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. and many Workers’ Party allies have leader Vice President Michel Temer told anyone of the abuse. Several said more spending is necessary to in the presidential seat. months later, he again travelled to Russia and abused minor girls. The following March, believ- ing that his victims had contacted the police, he and two accomplices Harvard to scrap law school seal associated with slavery cornered the girls and gang-raped them. Wright during the sentencing recalled the sheer terror of one of Reuters The Harvard Corporation, the told Martha Minow, dean of the law Royall, who media reports said was bicentennial in 2017. the victims when called to testify Massachusetts university’s governing school, yesterday that the university the son of an Antiguan slaveholder “While we accept the request to during the case. body, voted to approve a recom- backed the recommendation. and endower of the first law profes- change the shield, we do so on the “She walked through that door, mendation by a Harvard Law School Designed in 1936, the shield dis- sorship at Harvard. understanding that the school will saw the defendant, let out a blood- NEW YORK: Harvard University will committee to retire the shield. plays three sheaves of wheat taken A committee organised by the law actively explore other steps to rec- curdling scream, collapsed to the replace the official shield of its pres- The decision comes as emblems from the Royalls family coat of arms, school voted to recommend scraping ognise rather than to suppress the floor and crawled out of the court- tigious law school which features the linked to slavery on college and pub- with the university’s motto, “Veritas,” it after criticism by a student group, realities of its history, mindful of our room like a wounded animal,” said family crest of an 18th century slave lic properties have been the target of the Latin word for truth, scrolled on officials said. shared obligation to honor the past Wright, the judge. holder, after students objected to its protests by students and others who three panels across the top. Faust said she hoped the law not by seeking to erase it, but rather “Such sheer terror could not racist associations, the school said in see them as insensitive. The emblem was modeled on the school would introduce a new by bringing it to light and learning have been staged.” a statement yesterday. Harvard President Drew Faust coat of arms of the family of Isaac seal in time for the law school’s from it,” she wrote. 22 WEDNESDAY 16 MARCH 2016 AMERICAS

IS atrocities GOP to fight Obama on court nominee genocide: US Congress comprehensive judicial response effort in our party’s history,” RNC The Republicans who Chairman Reince Priebus said in a AFP control the Senate statement. “If the president wants to break have vowed not to with decades of precedent by push- WASHINGTON: American law- hold confirmation ing through a nominee in an election makers voted to label Islamic State year, we’re going to vet that person (IS) group atrocities in Syria and hearings or an up-or- and put their real record on display,” Iraq “genocide,” and called for set- down vote on anyone Priebus said. ting up Syrian war crimes tribunal Earnest declined to say when under United Nations authority. Obama picks. Obama would announce his choice The House of Representatives to fill the vacancy. unanimously passed a non-bind- The Republicans who control the ing resolution pressuring President Senate have vowed not to hold con- Barack Obama’s administration Reuters firmation hearings or an up-or-down to call attacks against Christians, vote on anyone Obama picks, saying Yezidis and other minorities “war the choice should belong to the next crimes, crimes against humanity president who takes office in January and genocide.” WASHINGTON: The Republican after presidential election. The State Department has so Party of the Grand Old Party (GOP) The nomination requires Senate far declined to use that label. stepped up its fight against any US confirmation. The stakes are high, In a second measure, rep- Supreme Court nominee put forward as Obama’s selection could pivot the resentatives voted 392 to 3 for a by President Barack Obama while the nine-member court to the left for the resolution urging the White House president’s allies hit back against a first time in decades. to urge the UN Security Council to conservative group’s attack on a judge In an interview with CNN Espa- immediately establish a Syrian war who had been considered for the job. nol, Obama said he will make decision crimes tribunal, calling actions by The Republican Party’s move “soon.” He said he is looking for some- the Syria’s government and others to create a task force to coordinate one with “impeccable credentials” who “gross violations of international advertising and other steps to assail “should be a consensus candidate.” law amounting to war crimes and Obama’s nominee to fill the vacancy Senate Democratic Leader Harry crimes against humanity.” Women up with pocket copies of the US Constitution along with letters to Senate Judiciary Chairman Chuck left by the February 13 death of con- Reid denounced on the Senate floor “What is happening in Iraq servative Justice Antonin Scalia is the what he called a “smear” campaign Grassley, calling on the Senate not to delay filling up the Supreme Court vacancy, during a protest rally on and Syria is a deliberate, sys- latest indication that the political fight against federal appeals court judge Capitol Hill, near the Supreme Court, in Washington, DC, yesterday. tematic targeting of religious and could become very nasty. Jane Kelly, who had been on Obama’s ethnic minorities,” said House “It’s clear what Republicans are short list of potential nominees. as a public defender in Iowa for a man Reid referred to the group as “a to her current position in 2013 in a Speaker Paul Ryan, a Wisconsin planning to do,” White House spokes- Sources said Kelly was not among charged with possessing child por- dark money, right-wing political 96-0 vote. Republican. man Josh Earnest said. “They are the final three under consideration, nography who was later convicted organization that operates in total Obama administration lawyers “Today, the House unan- planning to tear down the president’s federal appeals court judges Sri Srin- of first-degree murder and sexual secrecy.” continued to review the legal opinions imously voted to call ISIS’s nominee, without regard to who that ivasan, Merrick Garland and Paul assault in the death of his former girl- “The accusations leveled against of three finalists, weighing whether atrocities what they are: a person is.” Watford. friend’s 5-year-old daughter. Judge Kelly are despicable,” Reid said, elements could become a flashpoint genocide.” The Republican National Commit- Reid was referring to an ad cam- The group, in a news release, calling on Iowa’s US senators includ- for opponents on the right or even the Congress has set a March 17 tee said the task force will contract paign mounted by a conservative called the ads the next phase of its ing Republican Chuck Grassley, the left. The current finalists generally deadline for the State Department and team up with America Rising activist group called the Judicial Cri- “national campaign to educate and chairman of the Judiciary Commit- are considered more moderate than to formally decide whether to issue Squared, a conservative group, in sis Network referring to Kelly as a “a inform the public about what’s at tee who in the past praised Kelly, to liberals in the tradition of Obama’s a comprehensive genocide desig- the effort. liberal extremist” with a “disturbing stake in filling the Supreme Court denounce to the group’s charges. two previous appointments, Sonia nation, although it is expected to “This will be the most background.” It cited her prior work vacancy.” The Senate voted to confirm Kelly Sotomayor and Elena Kagan. miss that date. State Department spokesman John Kirby said that Secretary of State John Kerry would reach a determination “soon.” Reforms proposed to make Pentagon acquisitions agile Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Ed Royce, a Republican from California, urged the White House not to “drag out” a decision. Reuters efforts to make the weapons pro- start of the design phase of a new The bill also seeks to end a services more responsible and “ISIS is guilty of genocide,” he grammes more transparent. program until a military service can controversy about how the Pen- accountable for weapons programs, said. “It has been using mass mur- The proposals are aimed at sim- start using a new weapon in combat tagon treats private companies’ requiring them to begin overseeing der, beheadings, crucifixions, rape, plifying the convoluted US Defence to five-to-six years from around nine intellectual property that has made milestone decisions for joint pro- torture and enslavement in its WASHINGTON: US House Armed Department acquisition process, with year currently, the staff said. non-traditional suppliers reluctant to grammes after October 1, 2019. deliberate campaign to eliminate Services Committee Chairman Mac a big push to fund more experimenta- The bill requires all weapons do business with the US military and The bill also requires the secre- religious minorities and bulldoze Thornberry introduced a second tion and prototyping of new weapons, systems to have “open systems archi- its complex defence acquisition rules. tary of defence, or his staff, to fix the their history.” batch of legislative proposals yes- while driving to get new technologies tectures” that will allow the services Instead of automatically giving costs and expected fielding date for He pressed the Obama terday aimed at speeding up how the into the hands of troops faster. to hold competitions for more compo- the government broad rights to con- new weapons programs, and then administration to “seek account- Pentagon buys weapons and making Many big weapons programmes nents, and carry out quicker upgrades trol intellectual property rights that hold the services accountable for ability for Bashar al-Assad’s it easier for firms to retain their intel- are over budget and behind sched- as new technologies are developed. are jointly funded by industry and meeting those targets. heinous war crimes against his lectual property. ule, although Pentagon officials say It authorizes the Air Force, Army government, the bill would mandate To ensure more transparency, the own people,” noting that more Thornberry’s legislation follows changes undertaken since 2009 are and other military services to use that such arrangements would have bill also calls for creation of an acqui- than 18,500 children are among an initial batch of reforms enacted starting to have a positive impact. certain funding to pay for proto- to be negotiated between the parties. sition scorecard that would compare the hundreds of thousands last year with the 2016 annual The new legislation aims to type upgrades of components and to The legislation would also con- program cost estimates with those of people killed in the brutal defence policy bill, and continues shorten the time it takes from the develop technology faster. tinue a push to make the military submitted by independent estimators. conflict.

Protest against Uber US opens door wide to Cuba travel ahead of Obama visit

AFP sanctions-enforcing Office of Foreign decision to defect,” said Gacki. Assets Control, said the government The various steps announced by had laid down broad recommenda- the Treasury add up to the continu- tions for how people can meet the ing erosion of Congress-mandated WASHINGTON: The White House requirement of “a full-time sched- restrictions on interactions with Cuba yesterday opened the door wide for ule of meaningful activities.” and Cubans as the Obama adminis- Americans to visit Cuba, even as But, she added: “We do have con- tration seeks to end the decades-old tourism remains officially banned fidence that individuals will be able embargo on the country. on the eve of President Barack to come up with ways to engage with “Consistent with existing law, we Obama’s historic visit to the com- the Cuban people in ways that are are doing what we can to support a munist island. more affordable and less expensive greater engagement,” said Rhodes. The Obama administration than having to rely on an organiza- “At the same time, we believe declared that Americans could visit tion to put together a program.” that the best way to support a better the island freely for “individual peo- The move, along with other life for the Cuban people would be ple-to-people educational travel,” actions to open up opportunities for through lifting the embargo and the chipping away at the nation’s five- more business and “non-tourism” travel ban that have not succeeded decade-old embargo on Cuba, which engagement with the island, came bringing change to the lives of the Congress has refused to repeal. ahead of President Obama’s trip to Cuban people.” No longer will travelers have Cuba scheduled on March 20-22, From the 1960s until a just over Taxi drivers participate during protest against car sharing application Uber in Bogota, Colombia. to go with an organized group, as a momentous capstone to the rap- a year ago, Americans were mostly required under recent rules. New prochement that he and President banned from tourism, trade and guidelines issued by the Treasury Raul Castro announced in Decem- investment with the island barely Department are broad enough to ber 2014. 145 kilometers south of Florida. permit many kinds of tourism. They The new actions will also allow Underpinning the expected mainly require “meaningful inter- the US banks to provide more serv- expansion of travel was the signing Air pollution alert in Mexico City action between the traveler and ices for business and investment with in February of a bilateral agreement individuals in Cuba” and “support Cuba, and US companies to work authorising daily US commercial for the Cuban people.” more freely there. flights to the island for the first time Reuters vigorous exercise in the open and A phase one alert was last issued “There are many different ways They also will allow US compa- in more than 50 years. curb sporting activities to avoid res- for particle pollution on New Year’s that Americans can engage the Cuban nies to hire Cubans for work inside Several leading US airlines which piratory problems, the city said. Day 2005, a time when air quality people in meaningful exchanges the United States, which could pave already operate charter flights to The government said the alert was likely affected by heavy use of while they are traveling to Cuba,” the way for the rich US Major League Cuba say they are ready to start up MEXICO CITY: Mexico City’s gov- stemmed from an “extraordinary firecrackers, a city official said. Ben Rhodes, Obama’s deputy national Baseball league to hire Cuban base- scheduled services. ernment ordered traffic restrictions increase” in ozone concentration Ozone, which is a key ingredient security advisor, told journalists. ball stars directly. In another landmark, US-Cuba yesterday and recommended people due to the presence of a high pressure of smog, is a form of oxygen created “There’s no shortage of oppor- In the past, many Cubans want- direct mail service will be reestab- stay indoors due to serious air pollu- system and intense solar radiation by the reaction of sunlight with air tunities for Americans to build that ing to play in the United States had to lished today for the first time in more tion, issuing its second-highest alert around greater Mexico City, which is containing other pollutants such as type of meaningful schedule of peo- abandon their homeland. than a half-century, with the first warning for ozone levels. home to more than 20 million people. hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxide. ple-to-people engagement while they “This is going to give important direct mail flight, the Cuban postal While conditions persisted, resi- Not since September 2002 had It can cause breathing difficulties go to Cuba.” benefits to Cuban nationals looking service announced. dents were better off inside between the city issued a “phase one” pollution and worsen heart disease. Children Andrea Gacki, acting dep- to live and work in the United States Since the 1960s, mail has moved 1 pm. and 7 pm, should refrain from warning for elevated levels of ozone. and the elderly are especially at risk. uty director of the Treasury’s without forcing them to make the through third countries.

PRAYER TIMINGS WEATHER Minimum: 22o C Maximum: 25o C

FAJR 04.27 am ZUHR 11.43 am MAGHRIB 05.45 pm HIGH TIDE 09:45 Expected thunderstorm associated with strong SHOROOK 05.43 am ASR 03.08 pm ISHA 07.15 pm LOW TIDE 06:00 - 16:15 wind and high seas. Partly cloudy to cloudy with scattered rain, maybe thundery at times.

24 WEDNESDAY 16 MARCH 2016 MORNING BREAK

Sensor to detect ONLINE CHART BUST Arctic beauty viruses in 5 minutes

www.thepeninsulaqatar.com TOKYO: Japanese electronics giant Toshiba in collaboration with Osaka University has devel- oped a sensor that detects infectious MOST READ viruses in five minutes, the media reported. Faster diagnosis will help Ukraine passes key bill required for not only in preventing the devel- 1 visa-free travel to EU opment of severe symptoms with timely treatment but will also reduce A -Nusra Front in Syria vows new the possibility of contagion, EFE 2 offensive after Russian pullout news quoted Nikkei daily as saying. The new sensor recognises virus forms in a few minutes as opposed to existing methods that TWEET OF THE DAY use gene amplification, which requires around eight hours. The university and Toshiba, which is currently negotiating the sale of its medical equipment branch Toshiba Medical Systems, A private fishing cabin is photographed near Svolvaer, in Lofoten archipelago, Arctic Circle in Norway, plan to launch a diagnostic device based on this new technology in yesterday. 2020. Sony buys Jackson’s music venture stake

Bloomberg in Sony/ATV Music Publishing, as well underscored the importance of its firm belief that these businesses will as future distributions, according to entertainment operations. continue to contribute to our success a statement. “The entertainment busi- for years to come.” The deal consolidates Sony’s nesses have long been a core part The estate of Jackson, who died TOKYO: Sony Corporation reached control over a partnership that was of Sony and are a key driver of our in June 2009 at age 50, will continue an agreement with the estate of forged in 1995. Talks on a deal began future growth,” said Kazuo Hirai, to have interests in the music indus- Michael Jackson to acquire the late in September, when Tokyo-based Sony’s president and chief execu- try. Those include all of the pop star’s pop star’s stake in their joint music Sony exercised its right under their tive officer. master recordings and the publishing business for $750m. The terms call for joint venture to buy out Jackson’s “This agreement further dem- company that owns all of the songs Sony to make a lump sum payment of estate, according to the statement. onstrates Sony’s commitment to the he wrote. The estate will also retain $733m for Jackson’s 50 percent stake The company said the purchase entertainment businesses and our its interest in EMI Music Publishing. www.thepeninsulaqatar.com

PAGE | 26 QE 10,199.91 -117.74 PTS PAGE | 28 Develop infrastructure DOW 17,227.83 -1.30 PTS Barwa plans to bond market: FTSE100 6,139.97 -34.60 PTS develop new Doha Bank CEO BRENT $39.90 -$0.94 projects

WEDNESDAY 16 MARCH 2016 • 7 Jumada II 1437 thepeninsulaqatar @peninsulaqatar @peninsula_qatar

Economic diversification reins in oil impact: Minister

positioned to meet its 2030 vision, in Non-oil sector grew which economic diversification is a key component. He pointed that the non- at an accelerated oil sector grew at an accelerated pace Qatar to pass law on pace over the recent over the recent years, to contribute 49 percent to the gross domestic product years, to contribute (GDP) in 2014. PPPs by year-end 49% to GDP in 2014. The Government, committed to its development role, has been suc- cessful in introducing new legislative reforms that have been established Reuters to have the framework completed to increase private investment in the and start implementing the law by The Peninsula country. .“State legislation such as the the end of the year,” he said. New Companies Law has been put in In PPPs, private investors take place to create an investment environ- DOHA: Qatar aims to enact a law stakes in projects along with the ment to allow investors to participate in covering the use of public-private government, bearing part of the DOHA: Qatar’s ambitious economic all aspects of Qatar’s economy”, he said. partnerships (PPPs) by the end of risk and sharing profits. diversification programme has helped He said the Ministry is currently 2016, part of efforts to boost its Qatar has used the structure in the country check unprecedented glo- working on a number of other ini- fledgling private sector and ease the utility and oil and gas sectors — bal oil price crash impact, Minister of tiatives as well, to boost private the strain on government finances in 2015, Qatar General Electricity Economy and Commerce H E Sheikh investment, including establishing a caused by low oil prices. and Water Corp signed a contract Minister of Economy and Commerce H E Sheikh Ahmed bin Jassim Al Ahmed bin Jassim Al Thani stated yes- public-private-partnership (PPP) frame Qatar’s ministry of economy with a Japanese-led consortium to terday. work. The plans for new free zones is to Thani at the MEED’s Qatar Projects conference. and commerce will submit a draft develop a $3bn water and power Delivering the opening address be implemented by 2019, which would PPP law to the cabinet by August, project — but the new law would at the MEED’s Qatar Projects confer- plug the gap in logistics. bolster the economic diversification area of about 9 million sqm, the project Saud Al Attiyah, an official at the make PPPs easier to operate and ence, the Minister said that growth “The ministry is currently work- programme. The ministry’s decision is aimed at meeting the demands of the ministry, said yesterday. “We hope expand their use into other sectors. of Qatar’s non-oil economy has been ing on reinforcing the principle of to develop the logistics zones projects domestic market in the logistic and expedited and the country is well public private partnership to further was part of this strategy. Covering an storage sector,” the Minister said. Banks to play key role in Qatar’s transformation: QNB Group CEO

By Satish Kanady investment spending from the expansion projects in the transport sector make up country’s diversification plans. Demand for The Peninsula of LNG to diversification. Major projects the major projects . The budget for the banking products and services in Qatar has in real estate and transport have been the development Lusail Mixed-use develop- grown and is expected to continue. There- focus of the diversification drive. The larg- ment is an estimated $45bn and $40bn for fore, the banking sector is expected to grow est projects are mainly in the real estate Qatar Integrated Rail, which is expected to by double digits over the medium term. DOHA: The banks in Qatar will continue and transport sectors. Investment spend- develop 260km of metro and light rail in In line with Qatar’s National Vision and to play a critical role in the country’s ongo- ing in 2015-17 is estimated to be around Doha and 400km of mainline. The alloca- National Development Strategy, QNB Group ing economic diversification programme $70-80bn per year. Public investment tion for Ashghal expressway programme is is strongly committed to nurture the growth by supporting its public spending. Govern- spending is expected to grow in line with $20bn and Hamad International Airport of the private sector. ment investments and population growth GDP, he said. is $15.5bn. The new phase of new airport The Qatar National Development Strat- are driving an economic transformation A sector wise breakdown shows real will increase capacity to 55 million pas- egy (QNDS) 2011-2016 has identified 14 with double-digit growth in the non-hydro- estate spending accounts for 49.2 percent sengers. The $14.6bn has been set aside for priority sectors for development to real- carbon sector, QNB Group CEO Ali Ahmed of total investment spending during 2015-17. Ashghal local roads and drainage projects. ise the QNV 2030. Al Kuwari said yesterday. While the share of Transport and Utilities The $11bn investment in the new facility He said QNB Group is committed to act Addressing the opening session of sectors represent 27.8 percent and 13.7 per- of Bul Hanine Oilfield is expected to dou- as an incubator and enabler for the devel- MEED’s Qatar Projects conference here cent, respectively. Oil and Gas accounts for ble the capacity to 90k b/d by 2022. The opment of the private sector, in particular yesterday Ali Ahmed noted the country’s merely 8.3 percent. Industrials sector’s $10.3bn investment in Barzan Gas Develop- small and medium Sized enterprises. Given non-hydrocarbon sector currently accounts share is 1.1 percent and petrochemicals ment plans to increase gas supply to market its international presence, QNB Group can for more than half of the economy, driven 0.5 percent. to meet demand. act as a conduit to channel foreign direct QNB Group CEO Ali Ahmed Al Kuwari at the opening by growth in construction, services and In his presentation, the QNB Group The QNB Group CEO said banks will investment (FDI) on an international level of the MEED’s Qatar Projects conference. manufacturing. CEO noted mixed-use real estate devel- play a critical role by financing infrastruc- across its network to support the private Pic: Abdul B/The Peninsula The government has shifted its focus of opments and rail, road , airport and port ture projects, enabling the realization of the sector. Fed seen holding rates for now, leaving door open for June hike

Reuters but uncertainty over the impact on next quarter.” January to put policy on hold for the hike by mid-year and, depending on the US economy of slower growth in Still, the path to a next rate hike is time being, rather than new worries economic data, more to come after China and Europe since the beginning unlikely to be smooth. U.S. retail sales over the US or global outlook. that. “June seems certainly like a pos- of the year has driven policymakers were reported on Tuesday to have Indeed, since the last Fed meet- sibility” for the Fed’s next rate hike, SAN FRANCISCO: Federal Reserve to hold off on any further rate hikes been weaker than thought in Janu- ing US inflation has shown signs of said former Minneapolis Fed Pres- policymakers are seen leaving short- since then. ary, renewing worries over domestic stabilising, with one measure pub- ident Narayana Kocherlakota last term interest rates unchanged at a A recent string of stronger US growth prospects, even as the Bank lished by the Dallas Fed rising to 1.9 week. Kocherlakota’s own preference two-day policy meeting that began data, including faster-than-expected of Japan offered a gloomier outlook percent, its closest to the Fed’s 2 per- is for the Fed to take out “insurance” yesterday, but also to signal that a rate job growth in February, has eased for the world’s third-biggest econ- cent goal in 2-1/2 years. Meanwhile, against a recession by cutting rates hike is not too far off as long as the fears in the past few weeks that head- omy without immediately adding to the U.S. unemployment rate held at back to near zero. Still, Kocherlakota’s job market and inflation continue to winds from abroad, and the tighter stimulus. 4.9 percent in February, near the level former colleagues will likely spend improve. financial conditions they sparked at Fresh forecasts from the Fed’s 17 many Fed officials believe represents plenty of time discussing the infla- The meeting began at 1 pm EDT, home, could derail the recovery. officials released after the meeting full employment. tion outlook. a Fed spokesperson said in an email. “The most prominent risk in Jan- ends today will likely signal three The European Central Bank’s More hawkish rate setters worry The Fed is due to issue a statement at uary — the tightening in financial or possibly two rate hikes this year, decision last week to ease policy that if the Fed does not act to preempt the conclusion of the meeting today at conditions at the start of the year - a slower path of rate hikes than the further may help add to confidence inflation, it could end up behind the The Fed will also need to decide 2 pm EDT, and Fed Chair Janet Yellen has receded,” wrote Goldman Sachs four 2016 rate hikes envisioned in that action has been taken to under- curve and lose credibility, while the how to characterize the “balance of (pictured) will hold a news confer- economists Zach Pandl and Jan Hatz- December, the last time forecasts pin growth in Europe, helping ensure more dovish members believe the risks” to their baseline outlook, par- ence at 2:30 pm. The US central bank ius. “As a result, Chair Yellen will were published. a stalling of the global growth drag economic recovery is still fragile and ticularly if policymakers want to keep lifted borrowing costs in December likely indicate that the committee The expected downgrade may on the US. want to see firm evidence of inflation- the door open to rate hikes in April for the first time in nearly a decade, remains on track to raise rates again largely reflect the Fed’s decision in That could mean another US rate ary pressures. or June. 26 WEDNESDAY 16 MARCH 2016 BUSINESS

QFC & PartnerRe Develop infrastructure bond to foster talent market: Doha Bank CEO development The Peninsula

on the opening day of MEED’s “Qatar sometimes beyond the agreed time GCC infrastructure Project Conference” here yesterday even against consultant certified Dr Seetharaman said : “There is a invoices. This in turn affects payment DOHA: In collaboration with the bonds need to need for development of GCC bond to subcontractors and impacts project Qatar Financial Centre (QFC), be issued with market to bring more investors as an profitability. There is reluctance to PartnerRe, a leading global rein- additional source of project financ- assign proceeds or give irrevocable surer which provides multi-line sovereign guarantee ing. GCC infrastructure bonds need assignment letters to financing banks. reinsurance to insurance compa- to stimulate project to be issued with sovereign guaran- Absent this, banks have no certainty nies, welcomed for the first time tee to stimulate project financing. We on project cash receipts to appropri- students from the GCC region to financing. also need to bring long term investors ate for settlements. attend a series of activities at Mul- such as pension funds, insurance and There may be instances where taQa Qatar. The young people were mutual funds in GCC Project market.” main contractors have called on selected to attend the event after Project entities can issue bonds performance and advance payment Doha Bank CEO Dr R Seetharaman at the event. winning a writing contest. The Peninsula during the construction phase, and guarantee even where projects have The theme of the essay com- banks can refinance the bonds upon been substantially completed. Banks and approval. The above challenges adverse effect on project efficiency petition, which was launched projects getting operational. On the are a partner in the projects, in cer- have resulted in various disputes and timeliness of project completion, at select universities across the whole Qatar and GCC should develop tain instances they are the last to such as variation orders, extensions with no forum to settle differences region, was: “The region’s future DOHA: Doha Bank CEO Dr R infrastructure bond market for know of any concerns and disputes or variations of time, changes in which tend to eventually build up economic growth will be lim- Seetharaman has stressed the need project finance, he added. among the owner and contractor. design; resulting in cost escalation, to detrimental issues. Banks would ited unless insurance penetration for Qatar and GCC developing a Elaborating on key challenges Despite having an assignment of time variation, bills partially certi- like to have a framework to address increases.” A panel of experts from strong infrastructure bond market faced in Projects and Contract financ- proceeds, payments are sometimes fied, bills certified and not paid and project financing/ contract financing the QFC and PartnerRe reviewed for project financing. ing in GCC , Dr Seetharaman said the made directly to subcontractors, late collection of payments. challenges to improve their participa- the submissions, and shortlisted Participating in a panel discussion release of payments to contractors are without Bank’s previous knowledge He said disputes tend to have an tion in this segment. graduates were invited to attend the MultaQa Qatar Connect ses- sion, the event’s Gala dinner and the Mena Leader’s Forum. Yousuf Mohamed Al Jaida, CEO QIC is official insurer of of QFC, said: “As a Qatari organ- isation, we are proud to be part of such a worthy initiative. As we Art for Tomorrow meet celebrate MultaQa Qatar’s 10th edition, we must continue to look at ways to engage with the regional The Peninsula commitment and support to the grow- community, and the launch of ing art industry, but it also underpins our this online essay competition for efforts in raising awareness about the the very first time is further evi- benefits of Fine Art Insurance”. dence of the untapped potential DOHA: Qatar Insurance Company He added, “A vast majority of Qataris in the region.” “The QFC remains (QIC), is the official insurer of The New and expatriates living in Doha are con- committed to encouraging bright York Times Art for Tomorrow confer- noisseurs of art and like decorating their graduates in Qatar and the region ence. Staged at the W Hotel, the Art for homes with expensive artwork, murals, to pursue a career in the finance Tomorrow conference commenced from and antiques. By insuring their art col- and business industries, to ensure March 12. The event was attended by lection, they can protect their pieces of our region sustains a long-term H E Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin art against any damage or attempt of growth,” he added. Khalifa Al Thani. burglary.” “As a reinsurer, PartnerRe is Speaking on this important collab- Art for Tomorrow brings together delighted to support young profes- oration Salem Al Mannai, Deputy Group world-famous artists and architects, with sionals in the region so that they President & CEO QIC – Mena said, “We leading museum directors, urban devel- can develop into the future lead- are delighted to partner with a high opers, policy-makers and financiers to ers of our industry,” said Salvatore profile and prestigious event such as address critical issues. and their impact Orlando, Head of High Growth QIC officials at the event. this. Not only does it demonstrate our on the creative cities of tomorrow. Markets at PartnerRe. BUSINESS WEDNESDAY 16 MARCH 2016 27 Qatar, Egypt and UAE top drivers of Mena M&As

leading the way in terms of volume in 2015. More specifically, Egypt Libya, Morocco and Tunisia, and the and value year-on-year, peaking at recoded 50 deals, the largest in the Levant i.e. Jordan and Lebanon was Qatar tops in deal an unprecedented 88.1 percent of the region, followed by the UAE with 47, analysed and included in the report. value with $22.37bn total value of deals in 2015. Saudi Arabia with 31, and Jordan with The report also highlights the regional Qatar, Egypt and UAE with 21 deals. deal landscape and considerations, in Mena’s $105.5bn deals worth $22.37bn, $21.72bn and On the contrary, global M&A value growth drivers, and challenges and M&A activity between $21.29bn respectively, accounting soared to an all-time record level in issues. 2010 & 2015. for 62 percent of the total deal value 2015, with 43,302 deals worth nearly Current foreign ownership laws, during the period, were the most $4.8 trillion announced, the previous low ranking in the World Bank’s ‘Ease preferred investment destinations in highest being $4.6 trillion in 2007. of Doing Business’ report, liquidity Mena. Real Estate & Construction with Notably, several mega deals were squeeze due to lower hydrocarbon 239 deals worth $29.51bn, financial announced during the year includ- revenues and lack of transparency The Peninsula services and banking with 346 deals ing 57 deals worth more than $10bn in regional regulatory framework worth $23.04bn, telecom with 41 deals each and nine deals worth more than are key factors that are likely to worth $15bn and F&B with 99 deals $50bn each. affect M&A deals in the region. The worth $5.72bn were the most attrac- According to the report, all the six Al Masah Report also highlights the DOHA: Mergers and Acquisitions tive sectors collectively accounting during 2010-15 within the financial the rapidly changing macroeconomic GCC countries were among the top role of Private Equity (PE) firms who (M&As) activity in the Mena region for 725 deals worth $73.2bn. services & banking, telecom and F&B environment in 2015 due to geopo- nations to lead outbound investments have become increasingly impor- has remained robust during the cur- The report also states that in sectors respectively. litical tensions and the anticipated from the region. tant in driving M&A activity as well rent decade barring 2015 when both terms of deal volume and value, the M&A activity in the region has decline in spending by governments This trend is expected to continue as facilitating deals across the MENA the number and value of deals sig- GCC countries accounted for approx- gained traction over the years pri- on the back of weakened oil prices, going forward, as GCC companies region. nificantly declined, revealed an Al imately 56.6 percent (196 deals) and marily due to strong fundamentals have resulted in the total value and look to drive growth by expanding The Mena PE industry remained Masah Capital Limited Report titled 61.1 percent ($14.08bn), 56.1 percent and favourable demographics, and volume declining to $7.78bn and 193 into key emerging nations through largely unchanged in 2015 record- Mena M&A industry. (23 deals) and 20.0 percent ($2.98bn), driven mainly by GCC-based entities deals respectively, registering the strategic acquisitions. ing 58 deals during the year worth During the period 2010-2015, the and 46.5 percent (46 deals) and 36.4 with larger risk appetites and strong lowest levels in six years. Of this, the M&A activity during 2010-2015 $2.75bn. UAE continued to be the most region witnessed M&A deals worth percent ($2.08bn) of the total M&A liquidity positions attained during six GCC countries accounted for 122 in the six GCC countries, the North preferred destination in the region $105.5bn with GCC-based companies activity recorded in the Mena region periods of high oil prices. However, deals, nearly two-thirds of the total African countries of Algeria, Egypt, with 19 deals. ICT spending in Meta region expected to touch $260bn: IDC

By Mohammad Shoeb is conducive to economic growth, Technology provided a platform to The Peninsula sustainability, and efficiency. It with over 150 ICT leaders and profession- these initiatives in mind, that IDC als for a comprehensive knowledge has created the Smart Cities matu- exchange on its technologies for suc- rity model. The model allows cities cessful digital transformation. DOHA: Total spending on ICT tech- to assess where they stand in terms These ICT leaders and experts nologies is expected to reach $260bn of their ICT readiness, government shared ideas and insights on how in 2016 as digital transformation ini- processes, coordination, collabo- IT organisations in Qatar can best tiatives take hold across the Middle ration, and data governance. While tackle emerging challenges in this East, Turkey, and Africa (Meta) region, there are five distinct stages of matu- exciting era of smart cities and dig- said a senior official of an American rity, cities need to aim to reach the ital transformation. market research and advisory firm “optimised” stage of maturity where Qatar was recently ranked among here yesterday. by a properly defined strategy allows the top 10 countries when it came to “The rapid urbanisation and a city to achieve its goals and provi- the ‘Importance of ICT to Government changing nature of the population sion higher quality of services for its Vision of the Future’ in the World FROM LEFT: Samer Diya, Director and Country Manager Qatar and Middle East, EMC; Megha Kumar, Senior are the major driving forces behind citizens.” Economic Forum’s 2015 Global Infor- Research Manager, Software Middle East, Africa and Turkey; and Habib Mahakian, Vice-President for Gulf the high demand for ‘smart cities’ Megha, who was speaking with mation Technology Report. Designed and Pakistan, EMC, during the press conference yesterday. Pic: Abdul B/The Peninsula and ICT technologies across the GCC media here at a roundtable meeting to be a comprehensive knowledge countries,” said Megha Kumar, Senior on the sidelines of ‘EMC Xchange Day’ exchange platform, at EMC Xchange Research Manager, Software at IDC event, noted that given the resource Day Doha, EMC and IDC shed detailed presented detailed insights on the ICT data-driven cities. Comprising three the smart city ecosystem, outlining the Middle East, Africa and Turkey. and budgetary constraints on the insights on a whitepaper designed to building-blocks to create intelligent, critical layers, the platform brings benefits, the key ICT building blocks “The GCC region where about part of governments coupled with empower governments around the data driven communities . together best-of-breed technologies of a smart city and the significant role 80 percent of population live in cit- the changing nature of population world and in the region to aid the The session extended an in depth from EMCII, VMware, VCE, Pivotal, of ICT innovation. ies is expected to achieve 100 percent and their socio-economic conditions, transformation of their urban cent- presentation of the EMC Federation RSA and Virtustream to host the Habib Mahakian, Vice President urbanisation by 2050,” she added. governments taking leverage on tech- ers into smart cities. Smart City Platform, an open, agile, applications of today and to ena- for Gulf and Pakistan at EMC Corpo- “Qatar’s transformation agenda nology to make things more open and In line with the government’s software-defined and data analytics ble the development of Cloud Native ration, said:“The time has come for has leapfrogged in terms of ICT devel- transparent. growing focus on ICT investments driven solution designed to deliver applications. businesses in the region to signifi- opment and egovernance, to achieve ‘Xchange Day’ was the first of and initiatives directed towards the the speed, performance and scala- Speakers also presented essential cantly reorient their thinking to help a ‘digitally-transformed’ country that its kind event in Qatar where EMC realisation of Vision 2030; experts bility needed for hyper-connected, guidance to all stakeholders within them stay ahead.”

Avon to cut 2,500 Domasco takes part in Doha jobs and move Jewellery & Watches Exhibition office to Britain NEW YORK: Struggling cosmetics The Peninsula According to Faisal Sharif, Managing Director at company Avon Products, Inc said Domasco, “The Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhi- it was eliminating 2,500 jobs and bition is among the most exclusive luxury shows in moving its headquarters to Great the region where unique timepieces and fine jew- Britain, its latest restructuring DOHA: Doha Marketing Services Company W.L.L. ellery are displayed under one roof. Domasco has after selling off its North Ameri- (Domasco) participated at the 13th edition of the invested a lot of time and effort to grow its watches can business. Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition 2016, hav- division and our participation at this exhibition was The company will maintain ing exhibited its premium brands since the event’s a great opportunity to reach out to watch enthusi- two facilities in New York state, inception. asts in Qatar.” continue to be incorporated in New During the exhibition, Raymond Weil unveiled Merril Dias, Head of Sales and Marketing, York. As of late last year, Avon the new Freelancer Divers watchwith 300 meters Domasco Watches said: “The show was an ideal employed 28,300 people outside water resistance, and 88 Rue Du Rhone revealed platform to unveil our latest timepieces and to allow of North America. the latest elegant Chronograph range for men and more treasures from our collections to be seen and Avon products are sold women. enjoyed by the visitors. This year’s exhibition was door-to-door through 6 million A diverse collection of beautiful timepieces from a tremendous success and we are already looking independent representatives in Executives at the event. both brands was also on display. forward to next year’s show.” about 70 countries. Abdullah Abdulghani & Bros unveils new Fortuner

The Peninsula Engineer Hiroki Nakajima explained: “Our world. It debuts a compelling design with a development concept was to build a true SUV strong identity, expressing refinement and that has style and confidence. The all-new innovation as well as being functional and Fortuner is the outcome of our continuous tough. It also epitomises Toyota’s focus on DOHA: Abdullah Abdulghani & Bros Co yes- efforts to redefine toughness while offering developing vehicles with impressive qual- terday unveiled all-new Toyota Fortuner with our customers powerful vehicles with dras- ity, durability, reliability and off-road ability. refined style and comfort. The new Fortuner tically improved off-road capabilities. The The result of this is a comprehensive revamp, is a second generation model which builds new engine offers high torque at lower RPMs. creating a unique SUV that’s every bit as on its heritage of being a durable sport util- Furthermore, the design concept is rough but comfortable on the school run as it is on the ity vehicle (SUV) with impressive off-road cool, with three bold, iconic lines. On top of region’s toughest off-road trails.We sincerely capabilities. all of this, the all-new Fortuner offers pre- appreciate the support of all our customers With the new Fortuner, Toyota has mium utility and safety features.” and we look forward to delighting them with focused on creating a more distinctive, Takayuki Yoshitsugu, Chief Repre- this latest model.” sleek and powerful design while improving sentative, Middle East and North Africa Toyota has created a new “Solid Fluid- performance and adding a wide variety of Representative Office, Toyota Motor Cor- ity” design language for the Fortuner which features to increase convenience, safety and poration, said: “The all-new Fortuner is a expresses toughness and wideness through ride comfort. completely redesigned SUV that enhances the high body axis, the bulging wheel arch Sharing Toyota’s development philoso- driving confidence on every level while set- flares as well as the chunky trapezoidal front Officials at the launch of 2016 Fortuner yesterday. Pic: Abdul B/The Peninsula phy for the vehicle, Fortuner’s Executive Chief ting a new standard for SUVs all around the bumper. 28 WEDNESDAY 16 MARCH 2016 BUSINESS Barwa plans to develop several new projects

phase one of Mustawdaat project and the extension of Barwa village The company’s project. Annual General Other plans include completion of Al Khor residential project that con- Assembly meeting sists of 300 residential apartments yesterday endorsed and 50 villas and completion of phase 2 of the Barwa Al Baraha workers recommendation of accommodation, consisting of 16 Board of Directors residential buildings. The company to distribute cash plans to create Lusail Golf project’s master plan with a land space of 3.6 dividends of 22 million square meters. He added that percent, equivalent the company will continue efforts to improve the performance efficiency to QR2.20 per share. in the Groups’ subsidiary companies. “Barwa’s team has reviewed all of the new projects of the group to ensure optimum benefit, in accord- By Sachin Kumar ance with the state’s development The Peninsula requirements and to increase tar- geted revenues,” Al Ali said. The Chairman said that during 2014 and 2015, Barwa conducted a DOHA: Barwa Real Estate Com- comprehensive re-structuring proc- pany plans to develop several new ess, which included selling a number projects in the current year. Com- of assets to decrease indebtedness, pany’s Annual General Assembly empower the company’s financial meeting yesterday endorsed recom- position and ensure the availability of mendation of Board of Directors to sufficient cash balance to cover group H E Salah bin Ghanim Al Ali (third left), Chairman of the Board, Barwa Real Estate Company and who is also Minister of Culture nda Sports; distribute cash dividends of 22 per- operations. The effects of this re- cent, equivalent to QR2.20 per share. structure were clearly reflected in the Mohammed Abd Al Aziz Saad Al Saad, (second left) Deputy Chairman, with Board members during the Barwa Group Ordinary Annual General Addressing the shareholders, H financial statements for the year 2015. Meeting at Sharq Hotel yesterday. Pic: Kammutty VP E Salah bin Ghanim Al Ali, Chair- Company has obtained a number of man of the Board, Barwa Real Estate new assets of expected higher profit- The executive management, consist- their experiences and competences. He said that the company strives different social categories, especially Company and who is also Minister of ability, in order to achieve sustainable ing largely of highly qualified Qatari This plan will allow Barwa to keep to be a major contributor to the soci- medium-income groups in order to Culture and Sports said company’s growth, he said. personnel, has adopted a new organ- up with the high competition on the ety’s development by creating an fight the high rise of residential units’ goals for 2016 include commencing He added that in order to achieve isational structure, including updated real estate market, and contribute to architectural philosophy that goes rentals, and also by working on a development of several new projects, the group’s strategic objectives, policies and procedures which will the accomplishment of Qatar 2030 beyond the simple principles of con- close cooperation with government, mainly Dara A project in Lusail, phase Barwa has always emphasised on contribute to the development of vision regarding the development of struction and aims to find a creative to execute a number of initiatives that one of Madinat Al Mawater Project, the development of its human capital. Barwa’s employees by empowering human capital. residential solution that serves the serve the national development.

Pari Gallery opens at Hyatt Plaza QFBA & ADNAR Group announce CBQ as National Winner of ‘GMC 2015’ contest

‘National Winner’ certificate and tro- Haidar added: “Despite the phe- phy, as well as free round-trip tickets nomenal growth both in terms of The CBQ team will and hotel accommodation for three type and quantity in educational pro- enjoy national days to attend the international com- grammes at universities; to ensure petition finals, during which the team refinement of their students skills and international will raise the Qatari flag among other to qualify for the transition into the recognition as they competing nations. During the award labor market, yet the rapid develop- ceremony, two runner up teams in ments taking place in the business represent Qatar in the national round were also given world confirms that training and the international GMC a certificate of achievement. continuous development of staff is Dr Abdul Aziz Al Horr, CEO at a must, particularly to those culti- finals next April in QFBA, said: “As an integral partner in vating future leaders by raising their Macau, China. the internationally-acclaimed com- competitive, planning and decision- petition, we at QFBA congratulate the making skills. QFBA and ADNAR winners of Qatar’s 3rd National Glo- Group realise such reality, and on bal Management Challenge. By taking these bases seek to provide organ- The Peninsula part in this year’s competition, all par- izations in Qatar and the Gulf with ticipants played an important role in such special programs.” The GMC is raising the bar for the financial sector’s considered the world’s biggest simula- human capital in Qatar. Through an tion-based Strategic and Management DOHA: The Qatar Finance and Busi- innovative platform, the competition competition. Since its kick-off in 1980, ness Academy (QFBA) and ADNAR helps develop practical skills in the art the competition witnessed the par- Group yesterday announced CBQ as of management, financial analysis and ticipation of more than 500,000 the winner of Qatar’s 3rd edition of decision making. The Global Manage- contestants across five continents, Nabil Abu Issa (fifth right), Vice-Chairman, Abu Issa Holdings, with other officials cutting a cake to the Global Management Challenge ment Challenge perfectly aligns with with more than 40 countries partici- mark the grand opening of Pari Gallery at Hyatt Plaza Mall yesterday. Pic: Kammutty VP (GMC) 2015. QFBA’s mission of empowering profes- pating the GMC finals every year. From among the several Qatar- sionals with skills and knowledge for Through an innovative platform based firms and universities that career growth, and is a cutting edge built around simulation and strat- were participating, QFBA, in part- training tool that we are proud to be a egy-based training models, each nership with ADNAR Group, crowned part of. We look forward to an excep- team competing in the National GMC CBQ’s team as the ‘National Winner tional representation of Qatar by the comprises 3-5 trainees that manage a Role of fraud examiners discussed of the GMC 2015 Edition’, in a spe- winning team in the upcoming inter- fictitious company with an objective cial ceremony held at Crown Plaza. national GMC international final.” of achieving the highest investment Having achieved the highest Randa Haider, MD at ADNAR performance for their company in The Peninsula statistics, about 58% of fraud cases are the most common type at almost score among participants, the CBQ Group, said: “The Global Management a simulated stock exchange. When results in no recovery. The right meth- 85%. Corruption consists of conflict team will enjoy national and interna- Challenge reflects the strategic vision a team achieves the highest invest- odologies of fraud examination were of interest, bribery, illegal gratuities tional recognition as they represent of ADNAR Group in constantly seek- ment performance in their group, enlightened as solution” said Sunda- and economic extortion. The finan- Qatar in the international GMC finals ing to acquire and provide the GCC they become eligible to move to the DOHA: The Institute of Internal resan Rajeswar IIA Board member cial statement frauds though lower in next April in Macau, China. business environment with interna- next round. Each of the first and Auditors (IIA) Qatar recently held a who coordinated the event. numbers at 9% but the median loss per By attaining the highest tionally accredited unprecedented semi-final rounds take five weeks to seminar on “Conducting effective The session started with dis- incident is $1 million. investment performance on the com- programs aimed to keep up with the complete, before the National Win- fraud investigations” at Oryx Rotana secting definition of fraud. The Iyad shared interesting sta- petition’s simulated Stock Exchange, latest developments in the business ner is announced during the one-day Hotel. The trainer Iyad Mourtada is Association of Certified Fraud Exam- tistics about impact of collusion the CBQ team were awarded a world. National GMC Final. an international speaker, trainer and iners defines as; “The use of one’s in fraud; “Average loss on fraud consultant with a diverse background occupation for personal enrich- is $80,000 when a single person in auditing, risk and fraud examina- ment through the deliberate misuse is involved whereas it gets signif- tion. Iyad is the Managing Director or misapplication of the employing icantly increased to $300,000/ with of OpenThinking, a leading business organization’s resources or assets” collusion of two or more people”. training company in Dubai Fraud falls mainly into three catego- “It is very important for fraud “Iyad shared best practices of ries: asset misappropriation, corruption examiners to have the right mindset fraud investigation in the Middle East and financial statement fraud. Asset when they are planning the investi- in an innovative and interactive way misappropriation involving theft, mis- gation, collecting and analysing the using case studies and videos. As per use and larceny of cash and inventory evidence and interviewing the wit- nesses” Iyad emphasised. Fraud examination com- prises of documentary evidence, interviewing witnesses, writing investigation reports, testifying in court and assisting in prevention. “A good fraud examiner should possess knowledge and skills of accountant, lawyer, criminologist and investigator which is of tall order and tough to find” stated Iyad Obtaining evidence include cov- ert operations, surveillance, using informants, subpoenas, search warrants and voluntary consent. However local laws of respective countries should be verified for Officials pose for a group picture. The winning team with the trophy. permissibility. BUSINESS WEDNESDAY 16 MARCH 2016 29

Merkel at CeBit fair KNPC close BoJ chief defends to $3bn loan to fund Clean negative interest Fuels project rate policy Reuters DUBAI: Kuwait National Petro- leum Company (KNPC) expects to close the first phase of funding for its multi-billion-dollar Clean Kuroda’s comments Fuels Project with local banks as came after the Bank soon as the first week of April, the state oil refiner told Kuwait News of Japan held off Agency yesterday. unleashing more Part of the country’s 30bn dinar ($100bn) economic development stimulus following a plan, the Clean Fuels Project will two-day meeting, as upgrade and expand two of the Gulf it gauges the impact Arab state’s largest existing refin- weapons that the bank has at its eries with a focus on producing of its unprecedented disposal. “Simply put, the nega- higher-value products such as die- move into sub-zero tive interest rate policy will further sel and kerosene for export. strengthen the past monetary stim- KNPC was in advanced talks rates. ulus programme,” he told reporters. with local conventional and Islamic He added that the move would banks to secure a 900 million dinar help push down interest rates, result- loan of 10 years duration, Chief German Chancellor Angela Merkel tests a binomial hand scanner at the PCS stall, during her tour of the ing in lower borrowing costs for Executive Mohammed Al Mutairi AFP consumers, such as on home mort- CeBIT fair in Hanover, Germany, yesterday. The world’s leading computer and technology expositions was quoted as saying in a statement gages. “We think this (effect) will ends on Friday. to the state news agency. spread to the wider economy and National Bank of Kuwait commodity prices,” he said. and Kuwait Finance House were TOKYO: Japan’s central bank chief Kuroda previously cited financial helping to arrange this part of yesterday defended a negative market turmoil and slowing growth the funding, the statement said. interest rate policy slammed as a in China as he ushered in the -0.1 Negotiations were also underway desperate bid to keep alive efforts percent rate for new bank reserves, China weighs tax on currency trades to secure further financing from at resuscitating the world’s number and said the BoJ may go even further international banks which would three economy. into negative territory. In 2013, the be guaranteed by the export credit Haruhiko Kuroda’s (pictured) central bank unveiled what is now agencies of South Korea, Japan, comments came after the Bank of an 80 trillion yen ($705bn) asset- AFP seeking to profit on fluctuations in would cause the financial sector. Britain, Italy and the Netherlands. Japan held off unleashing more stim- buying plan — similar to the Federal the currency. Analysts said the move The idea of a Chinese Tobin tax No figure for this portion was ulus following a two-day meeting, as Reserve’s quantitative easing — as it would reduce liquidity in the long was floated last year by the deputy given, but the statement said the it gauges the impact of its unprec- works to hit an ambitious 2.0 percent term and possibly fuel short-term chief of the central People’s Bank of expected completion of talks was edented move into sub-zero rates. inflation target. BEIJING: China’s central bank has volatility as investors were forced to China in an article for China Finance scheduled later this year. Yesterday’s policy announce- The BoJ’s policies are a corner- drafted plans to impose a tax on leave the market. magazine, in which he said it would Sources told Reuters in April ment was the first since the BoJ caught stone of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s currency trades, Bloomberg News If implemented, the tax could also help “contain the inflows and out- 2015 that KNPC was in talks with markets off guard in January with its big-spending, easy money growth reported yesterday, in what would raise questions about plans for the flows of short-term speculative and banks to raise as much as $10bn plan to effectively charge commer- plan, dubbed “Abenomics”. Yester- be its latest volley against those bet- yuan to join the International Mon- arbitrage funds”. for a period between seven and 10 cial banks for depositing some of day, the bank pointed to a “moderate ting on a depreciation of the yuan. etary Fund’s elite reserve currency Chris Weston, chief market strat- years to fund around 70 percent of their reserves in its vaults. The move recovery” in Japan’s economy for Chinese authorities have spent basket, scheduled for October. “RMB egist at IG, said there was speculation the total project cost. is aimed at giving banks an incentive staying its hand, but it conceded that unprecedented sums to support the as reserve currency RIP,” George that the central bank “is taking the fight Under the project, the capac- to lend out money and, in turn, stoke exports and industrial production currency and stem capital flight since Magnus, associate at the University of to the speculative FX community”, but ity of the Mina al-Ahmadi refinery growth in the wider economy. have been weak because of a slow- a surprise devaluation rattled inves- Oxford China Centre, wrote on Twit- that the Tobin tax would “not be taken will drop to 347,000 barrels per But it was widely panned as a down in emerging economies. tors last summer. The tax would be ter. “Not that it was likely anyway.” kindly by the IMF” if adopted. day (b/d) from 466,000, while Mina “Hail Mary” that showed the central Economists are predicting the the most dramatic measure to date, “Tobin taxes” have been fiercely “If Chinese officials broaden Abdulla refinery’s capacity will bank was running out of tools to kick- BOJ will be forced to act again after although Bloomberg reported that the debated since they were first pro- this to other markets, like swaps, rise to 454,000 b/d from 270,000. start the economy. Critics also said it Japan’s economy shrank in the last rules had yet to be approved and the posed, with Sweden adopting a then speculators may pile into The reduction in the capac- was unlikely to boost loans, given quarter of 2015. “Sluggish economic level might initially be kept at zero financial transaction tax in the 1980s proxy currencies” such as the Hong ity of the Ahmadi refinery, after already weak demand from both busi- activity and the stronger yen sug- as an experiment. to boost government revenue, and Kong dollar, he added. China’s for- shutting one of its crude distilla- nesses and the general public. gest that policymakers will have Dubbed a “Tobin tax” after Nobel then abolishing it after bond trading eign-exchange reserves dropped to tion units, will be compensated for But Kuroda said the policy to announce more easing soon, economics prizewinner James Tobin, volumes collapsed. $3.20 trillion at the end of February, by adding new units to produce needed time to ripple through the probably next month,” said Marcel it would impose a small levy on for- Major banking hubs such as the People’s Bank of China reported higher-value products. economy, and that it underscored Thieliant from research house Cap- eign-exchange transactions. The Britain and the US have previously last week — down more than $300bn the wide range of monetary policy ital Economics. aim would be to deter investors from opposed them for the damage they in just four months. Sri Lanka’s economy slows VW sued for Property poster NBAD bows to pressure COLOMBO: Sri Lanka’s eco- nomic growth slowed slightly to $3.7bn over with dividend hike 4.8 percent last year due to a fall in exports of its main commodity, tea, diesel scandal official figures showed yesterday. Reuters paying when it unveiled its annual The figure marked only a mar- results in January. The move was a ginal decline on 2014, but will Bloomberg direct response to a request from add to concerns after interna- shareholders, Sowaidi told the meet- tional lenders and ratings agencies ABU DHABI: National Bank of Abu ing, without elaborating. warned the country is heading for BERLIN: Volkswagen AG was sued Dhabi (NBAD), the United Arab Emir- Hiking the dividend brings it a debt crisis. for ¤3.3bn ($3.7bn) over the cover- ates’ largest lender by assets has hiked closer to the 2014 yield, when NBAD Tea production dropped 2.6 up of its polluting diesel engines, its its 2015 dividend after investor pres- distributed a 0.40 dirhams cash div- percent during 2015 to about biggest legal challenge in Germany sure, the bank’s Chairman Nasser idend as well as a 10 percent stock $545m, the Department of Census to date after a wave of lawsuits in Ahmed Al Sowaidi said yesterday. dividend. It also puts it in line with and Statistics said, while exports the US centered on the scandal. The move highlights the rival Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank, fell by nearly seven percent to The case was filed in Braunsch- dilemma UAE banks face in continu- which is paying 0.45 dirhams for 306m kg. The declines were offset weig on behalf of 278 institutional ing to reward shareholders at a time 2015, and ahead of Dubai-based by services, which grew 56.6 per- investors from around the world, law- when the impact of lower oil prices Emirates NBD, which gave share- cent, and industrial output, which yer Andreas Tilp said by telephone. is squeezing business and could put holders 0.40 dirhams a share. expanded by 26.2 percent. The suit claims VW failed to publish pressure on capital. NBAD Chief Executive Alex Last week the government information about the emissions scan- The UAE central bank has Thursby told reporters after the announced a series of emergency dal in a timely manner, he said. already flagged concerns about div- meeting there had been a “bloom” tax increases to combat a debt The case comes almost six idend payments and safeguarding in deposits so far this year. “There’s crisis that has forced it to seek months after Volkswagen admit- bank liquidity, telling lenders they liquidity in the system,” Thursby a bailout from the International ted it installed software in its diesel would need to get payouts approved. said. “We are in a good position.” Monetary Fund. vehicles to cheat emissions testing, NBAD’s new figure of 0.45 NBAD was hit hard in the sec- Prime Minister Ranil Wick- a scandal that’s rippled through the dirhams ($0.12) per share, ond and third quarters of 2015 by remesinghe has put on hold for A man walks past a property poster outside luxury apartment global car industry. Sixty-five cases announced at the bank’s annual deposit outflows as the UAE govern- one year plans to lower corporate are pending in Braunschweig over blocks in central Beijing, China, yesterday. shareholder meeting, is up from ment drew upon reserves with local taxes, and has revived a capital the issue, the court said last week. the 0.40 dirhams the bank proposed banks to help shore up its finances. gains tax abolished in 1987. The company also faces a multitude of lawsuits in the US as well as crim- inal probes in various countries. Because Volkswagen has refused to take part in settlement Weak US retail sales highlight risks to economic outlook negotiations and won’t waive a statute of limitations defense, it was necessary to file the lawsuit, Reuters Reserve more reason to keep interest percent drop instead of the 0.2 per- retail sales advancing 0.2 percent in point to as low as a 1.9 percent rate Tilp said. Eric Felber, a spokesman rates unchanged today , when it is due cent gain previously reported. February. after the data. The economy grew at for Wolfsburg-based VW spokes- to release its latest policy statement. Underscoring the report’s Last month’s weak core retail a 1 percent pace in the fourth quarter. man, declined to comment on the “The economy’s engines are not weakness, retail sales exclud- sales reading, together with January’s Economic growth prospects were lawsuit until the company had WASHINGTON: US retail sales fell going into reverse ... but at the moment, ing automobiles, petrol, building modest gain, suggest that consumer further dented by another report from seen a copy of the complaint. less than expected in February, but a it is hard to see GDP with a 2 percent materials and food services were spending will probably remain tepid the Commerce Department show- Tilp has represented investors in sharp downward revision to January’s handle. Based on today’s lackluster unchanged last month after a down- in the first quarter after growing at ing business inventories edging up many German cases. His firm rep- data could reignite concerns about the sales report, policymakers will be in wardly revised 0.2 percent increase a 2.0 percent annualized rate in the 0.1 percent in January as sales con- resents investors suing Porsche SE economy’s growth prospects. no hurry to raise interest rates,” said in January. These so-called core fourth quarter. tinued to decline. In a third report, for a combined ¤2.6bn. Among the Yesterday’s weak report from the Chris Rupkey, chief economist at MUFG retail sales correspond most closely Still, consumer spending, which the Labour Department said its pro- plaintiffs in the new VW case are Commerce Department bucked the Union Bank in New York. with the consumer spending compo- accounts for more than two-thirds of ducer price index dropped 0.2 percent investors from Australia, Austria, trend of recent labour market data Retail sales dipped 0.1 percent last nent of gross domestic product and the US economy, remains supported last month on lower energy and food Canada, Denmark, France, Italy, that had suggested the economy month as automobile purchases fell were previously reported to have by a strengthening labor market and costs, after edging up 0.1 percent in Japan, Luxembourg, the Nether- remained on solid ground despite and cheaper petrol undercut receipts risen 0.6 percent in January. rising house prices. Economists cut January. In the 12 months through lands, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, some fears of a looming recession. at service stations. January’s retail Economists had forecast retail their first-quarter GDP growth esti- February, the PPI was unchanged the UK, the US and Taiwan. The data could give the Federal sales were revised down to show a 0.4 sales slipping 0.2 percent and core mates by as much as half a percentage after falling 0.2 percent in January. 30 WEDNESDAY 16 MARCH 2016 BUSINESS

QE INDICES SUMMARY QATAR STOCK EXCHANGE QE Index 10,199.91 1.14 % QE Total Return Index 16,262.53 0.92 % QE Al Rayan Islamic Index 3,830.73 0.56 % QE All Share Index 2,771.71 0.83 % QE All Share Banks & Financial Services 2,749.83 1.00 % QE All Share Industrials 3,024.03 0.89 % QE All Share Transportation 2,401.12 0.66 % QE All Share Real Estate 2,390.92 1.02 % QE All Share Insurance 4,523.06 0.85 % QE All Share Telecoms 1,095.45 0.16 % QE All Share Consumer Goods & Services 6,289.06 0.40 %

QE MARKET SUMMARY COMPARISON 15-03-2016 Today 14-03-2016 Previous day Index 10,199.91 10,317.65 Change 117.74 10.19 % 1.14 0.10 YTD% 2.2 1.07 Volume 16,770,441 9,904,581 Value (QAR) 456,809,974.23 278,422,752.65 Trades 6,691 4,626 Up 12 | Down 21 | Unchanged 04

WORLD STOCK INDICES Index Day’s Close Pt Chg % Chg Year High Year Low All Ordinaries 5168.628 -73.739 -1.41 5379.6 4762.1 Cac 40 Index/D 4465.93 -40.66 -0.9 4586.11 3892.46 Dj Indu Average 17229.13 15.82 0.09 18351.4 15370.3 Hang Seng Inde/D 20288.77 -146.57 -0.72 21794.84 18278.8 Iseq Overall/D 6198.48 -107.08 -1.7 6791.68 5611.89 Karachi 100 In/D 32623.02 -115.54 -0.35 33304.4 29785 Nikkei 225 Index 17117.07 -116.68 -0.68 18951.12 14865.77 S&P 500 Index/D 0 0 0 2134.72 1810.1

EXCHANGE RATE Currency Buying Selling US$ QR 3.6305 QR 3.6500 UK QR 5.1237 QR 5.1964 INTERNATIONAL MARKETS - A LIST OF SHARES FROM THE WORLD Euro QR 4.0149 QR 4.0719 COMPANY CLOSE NET VOLUME COMPANY CLOSE NET VOLUME COMPANY CLOSE NET VOLUME COMPANY CLOSE NET VOLUME CA$ QR 2.6991 QR 2.7518 NAME CHG TRADED NAME CHG TRADED NAME CHG TRADED NAME CHG TRADED Swiss Fr QR 3.6658 QR 3.7168 Yen QR 0.0320 QR 0.0326 A C C-A/D 1243 9.2 15838 Escorts-A/D 129.3 -2.25 53031 Kg Denim-B/D 69.35 -3.35 89186 Ucal Fuel-B/D 97.65 -0.15 5667 Aus$ QR 2.6938 QR 2.7468 Aarti Drugs-B/D 490.9 1.75 2179 Eveready Indu-/D 242.05 -1.75 20024 Kinetic Eng-B/D 80.85 -3.15 1313 Ultramarine-B/D 115.4 1.5 5163 Ind Re QR 0.0536 QR 0.0546 Aban Offs-A/D 185.5 -5.85 324233 F D C-B/D 184.45 -2.65 7824 Kopran-B/D 50.9 -0.45 79073 Unitech P -A/D 5.28 -0.03 7538751 Pak Re QR 0.0345 QR 0.0352 Aegis Logis-B/D 105.85 1.3 63595 Federal Bank-A/D 47.6 -0.6 121300 Lloyd Metal-B/D 17.7 -0.85 28709 Univcable-B/D 79.45 2.15 3190 Alembic-B/D 37.25 -1.4 47324 Ferro Alloys-B/D 4.65 0.05 4664 Lok.Hous&Con-B/D 4.67 -0.12 44307 Uppergsugar-T/D 87.55 11.7 81691 Peso QR 0.0771 QR 0.0787 Alok Indus-A/D 4.05 -0.15 3170946 Finolex-A/D 368.9 -1.7 14021 Lumax Ind-B/D 432.4 11.2 4324 SL Re QR 0.0249 QR 0.0254 Apollo Tyre-A/D 168.9 -0.55 164602 Gail-A/D 340.25 -2.75 65678 Lupin-A/D 1726.6 -141.9 312585 LONDON Taka QR 0.0460 QR 0.0470 Asahi I Glass-/D 142.25 -4.55 7819 Gammon India-T/D 12.75 -0.27 116286 Lyka Labs-T/D 77.35 -0.25 47295 Nep Re QR 0.0336 QR 0.0343 Ashok Leyland-/D 95.8 -1.35 1593378 Garden P -B/D 21.65 -0.9 20119 Mah.Seamless-B/D 139.9 0.2 30709 3I Group/D 437.9 -1.9 298672 SA Rand QR 0.2304 QR 0.2350 Ballarpur In-B/D 12.41 -0.44 546317 Godfrey Phil-B/D 1186.3 -15.75 27733 Mangalam Cem-B/D 190 6.9 8081 Assoc.Br.Foods/D 3373 3 52332 Banaras Bead-B/D 50.25 -0.85 5236 Goodricke-B/D 166.1 -1.9 12203 Mastek-B/D 148.3 6 648250 Barclays/D 163 -0.3 14020529 Bannari Aman-B/D 1324.25 110.5 3515 Goodyear I -B/D 469 -2.1 4629 Max Financial-/D 344 7.3 62262 Bp/D 341.3 -4.15 9738929 GOLD AND SILVER Bata India-A/D 486.65 -11.3 26956 Hcl Infosys-B/D 39.35 -0.85 502218 Mrpl-A/D 56.75 -1 89834 Brit Am Tobacc/D 4117.5 16.5 518940 Beml Ltd-A/D 1031.2 -3.45 5794 Him.Fut.Comm-T/D 15.5 -0.5 1226711 Nahar Spg.-B/D 90 -2.05 10077 Bt Group/D 456.8 -5.2 5482870 GOLD QR144.7829 per gramme Bh Electronic-/D 1060.3 -8.25 20830 Himat Seide-B/D 198.45 -4.3 37464 Nation Alum -A/D 40.65 1.7 239476 Centrica/D 222.7 -4.8 5181540 SILVER QR1.7966 per gramme Bhansali Eng-T/D 18.15 -1.2 112914 Hind Motors-T/D 5.04 0 40241 Navneet Edu-B/D 85 3.95 51609 Gkn/D 281.6 -2.4 663260 Bharat Bijle-B/D 785.75 5.25 6624 Hind Org Chem-/D 13.01 -0.24 5694 Nepc India-T/D 1.6 -0.04 16973 Hsbc Holdings/D 451.35 -1.1 9085472 Bharatgears-B/D 62.5 -2.5 1111 Hind Unilever-/D 842 -12.85 61901 Neuland Lab-B/D 616.25 -6.5 3751 Kingfisher/D 352.3 1.8 628783 Bhartiya Int-B/D 447.4 5.1 4974 Hind.Petrol-A/D 740.4 18.3 80714 Nrb Bearings-B/D 114.6 -0.8 1705 Land Secs Grou/D 1078 2 1035148 Bhel-A/D 106.15 0.55 518582 Hindalco-A/D 83.9 -0.85 1032126 O N G C-A/D 207.35 -0.85 1096783 Legal & Genera/D 228.8788 -14.7 19720204 Egypt index rises; Bom.Burmah-B/D 368.4 -17.2 14463 Hous Dev Fin-A/D 1114.1 -41.95 224302 Ocl India-B/D 391 -18.7 2210 Lloyds Bnk Grp/D 69.14 -1.17 27080994 Bombay Dyeing-/D 45.45 -1.75 73361 I F C I-A/D 24.2 0.95 1758338 Oil Country-B/D 25.05 -1.2 2955 Marks & Sp./D 405 -3.8 1099444 Canfin Homes-B/D 1033 -3.45 2116 Idbi-A/D 65.1 0.75 481364 Onward Tech-B/D 68.2 -2.05 1509 Next/D 6680 -10 120799 Gulf markets fall Caprihans-Xc/D 77 -2.45 2454 Ifb Ind.Ltd.-B/D 337 22 6803 Orchid Pharm-B/D 36.3 -0.8 112889 Pearson/D 872 -5.5 512121 Castrol India-/D 371.4 -1.1 222378 India Cement-A/D 76.8 1.6 261899 Orient Hotel-T/D 20.3 -0.85 7571 Prudential/D 1327.9 -18 1261787 DUBAI: Egypt’s stock market rose for a second straight Century Enka-B/D 162.2 0.3 2134 India Glycol-B/D 76.7 0.45 13958 Oudh Sugar-B/D 65 10.7 330471 Rank Group/D 253.1 0 14866 day yesterday after the country’s central bank devalued Century Text-A/D 482.85 -5.3 88798 Indian Hotel-A/D 94 -2.95 36360 Punjab Chem.-B/D 129.5 -1.4 3528 Rentokil Initi/D 161.3 -1 633266 the currency. Gulf markets fell as oil prices retreated. Chambal Fert-B/D 54.5 -0.55 144850 Indo-Tcount-T/D 953 -21.55 26261 Radico Khait-B/D 97.3 -2.6 8452 Rolls Royce Pl/D 679.5 -2 807748 Cairo’s index climbed 1.9 percent to 7,140 points, Chola Invest-A/D 670 1.45 2035 Indusind-A/D 919.95 -1.15 77446 Rallis India-A/D 163.7 2.15 20411 Rsa Insrance G/D 451.8 0.1 738798 rising above technical resistance at this year’s peak Cipla-A/D 524.7 -13.35 126355 J.B.Chemical-B/D 257.3 -2.35 9167 Rallis India-A/D 163.7 2.15 20411 Rsa Insrance G/D 451.8 0.1 738798 of 7,114 points. A second straight close above that level City Union Bk-/D 88.3 0.35 16257 Jagson Phar-B/D 37.95 -0.75 3891 Reliance Indus/D 418.7 -4.9 84131 Sainsbury(J)/D 279.7 -0.9 5362429 would confirm a break, pointing up to the October peaks Colgate-A/D 840.75 -3.7 24441 Jamnaauto-B/D 131.7 -2.3 58262 Ruchi Soya-B/D 27.8 -0.2 33404 Schroders/D 2704 1 56582 around 7,700 pounds. Container Cor-/D 1149.15 -7.2 21498 Jbf Indu-B/D 181.5 -2.35 14706 S Bk Bikaner-B/D 500 1.2 2331 Severn Trent/D 2064.63 1 58834 But while trading volume was active, it almost Dai-Tichi Kar-/D 367 1.9 2414 Jct Elect P -B/D 0.33 0.01 24124 Salora Inter-B/D 44.95 -0.05 5113 Smith&Nephew/D 1122 -4 369361 halved from the extraordinarily high seen on Monday, Dcm Shram Ind-/D 107.5 7.75 30320 Jct Ltd-B/D 5.82 -0.24 339880 Saur.Cem-B/D 53 0.25 717975 Smiths Group/D 1074 -5 302171 when the index soared 6.7 percent after the central bank Dhampur Sugar-/D 83.55 9.2 858227 Jenson&Nich.-B/D 8.4 -0.23 5400 Sterling Tool-/D 449.5 -20.1 1869 Standrd Chart /D 470.4 -13.15 3326389 devalued the pound to 8.85 per U.S. dollar from 7.73. Dr. Reddy-A/D 3138.65 -95.7 21370 Jindal Drill-B/D 129.9 -0.1 2071 Tanfac Indust-/D 26.8 -0.9 2660 Tate & Lyle/D 572 4.5 426009 The devaluation raised hopes that a cheaper pound E I H-B/D 105.2 0.55 11401 Jktyre&Ind-A/D 80.35 -0.45 110038 Tanfac Indust-/D 26.8 -0.9 2660 Tesco/D 190.8695 -2.2 2611839 would attract more capital to Egypt and eventually E.I.D Parry-A/D 202.1 11.9 176865 Kabra Extr-B/D 87.95 -0.55 4717 Thirumalai-B/D 191.1 -0.9 44307 Unilever/D 3133.5 23 770727 resolve its endemic foreign exchange shortage. Meanwhile, brent oil futures edged down below $39 Eicher Motor-A/D19551.85 -275.75 2086 Kakatiya Cem-B/D 141.9 4.9 11738 Til Ltd.-T/D 325.6 -10.2 2196 United Util Gr/D 901 -3 257391 a barrel yesterday, igniting a broad sell-off in Gulf stock Electrosteel-B/D 18.15 -0.5 44834 Kalpat Power-B/D 189.5 -7.4 5415 Timexgroup-T/D 29 0.45 14656 Vodafone Group/D220.25 0.65 9235485 markets. The petrochemical sector was the main drag Emco-B/D 25.2 -0.2 14131 Kalyani Stel-T/D 152.5 -2.3 18957 Tinplate-B/D 65.15 -1.3 35169 Whitbread/D 3871 -61 176851 as Riyadh’s index, falling 0.9 percent to 6,233 points. Escorts Fin-B/D 3.94 0.07 2328 Kanoria Chem-B/D 56.95 -0.8 2846 Ucal Fuel-B/D 97.65 -0.15 5667 Saudi Basic Industries, the largest listed petrochemi- cal producer, dropped 1.0 percent. But construction company Khodari added 1.7 percent after it announced that it had received SR9.1m ($2.4m) as compensation from the state’s Human Resource Devel- Global equities retreat before Federal Reserve meeting opment Fund for the impact of labour reforms. The gain will be booked in the first quarter of 2016, the com- pany said. Saudi Arabia’s government is opening a fresh aus- AFP from the Bank of Japan and the so next. The dollar was broadly In Tokyo, the Nikkei 225 was stimulate global growth amid the terity drive by ordering ministries to cut their spending price of oil at its lowest in over a steady against the euro, but slid down 0.68 percent at 17,117.07 ongoing financial turmoil have on contracts by at least 5 percent, a document seen by week led to some modest profit- against an invigorated yen. points; in Shanghai, the Compos- offered a false lifeline to stock mar- Reuters shows. The cuts could further slow economic taking,” he added. In London, the FTSE 100 was ite was up 0.17 percent at 2,864.72 kets,” said FXTM research analyst growth and hurt the construction industry, where many LONDON: Stock markets around London’s benchmark FTSE 100 down 0.6 percent to 6,139.97 points; points, while in Hong Kong, the Lukman Otunuga. He added in a companies are struggling with deteriorating cash flow the world slid yesterday as inves- index was weighed down also by in Frankfurt, the DAX 30 was down Hang Seng was down 0.72 per- note to clients that “fears still lin- and rising labour costs. tors played it safe ahead of a a slump in miners’ share prices 0.6 percent at 9,933.85 points; in cent at 20,288.77 points. ger over central banks running out Profit-taking by local traders in speculative shares key meeting of the US Federal after Chilean miner Antofagasta Paris, the CAC 40 was DOWN 0.8 Last week the European Central of ammunition to jumpstart global pulled Dubai’s index down 0.9 percent. Builders Arabtec Reserve, with the Bank of Japan scrapped its dividend, providing percent at 4,472.63 points, while Bank unveiled dramatic new stim- growth while China woes period- and Drake & Scull each dropped more than 6.0 percent, abstaining from extra stimulus investors with another reminder the EURO STOXX 50 closed down ulus measures, and investors will be ically sour risk appetite”. while Dubai Parks tumbled 2.9 percent. All three shares, providing a trigger for selling. the industry is suffering from the 0.8 percent at 3,068.22 points. watching closely whether the US Meanwhile on Wall Street, shares favoured by local traders, had risen more than 16 percent Fresh slides for oil prices and hefty drop in metals prices. The Japanese central bank yes- Federal Reserve drops clues it may were down in midday trading after since mid-February. Abu Dhabi’s benchmark dropped share prices of heavyweight miners Antofagasta plunged 11 percent terday kept its monetary stimulus delay further raising interest rates. sentiment was also dented by data 2.1 percent as the largest listed bank on the exchange, heaped further pressure on mar- during the session, but recovered unchanged as policymakers digested The Fed held fire in January, showing retail sales dipped in Feb- First Gulf Bank, traded ex-dividend; it fell 9.8 percent. kets. Europe’s main markets closed part of the ground to close down the impact of the negative interest but financial markets have since ruary and the January figure was Other blue chips also sold off; Union National Bank down between half and one per- 4.5 percent. Fellow miner Anglo rates announced in January. staged a comeback from their worst revised sharply lower, suggesting , which went ex-dividend on March 10, fell 5.0 percent. centage point, . American tumbled 10.8 percent Tokyo shares closed down 0.68 start to the year in living mem- some weakness in consumer spend- Last month, the lender announced that it had trimmed “Caution took hold of stock in London trading. percent after the announcement, ory. Nevertheless investors are still ing, the motor of the US economy. its 2015 cash dividend from the prior year. markets on Tuesday ahead of While most anlaysts don’t while the yen, seen as a haven invest- nervous about signs of weak global In New York, the Dow was down In Qatar, the index fell 1.1 percent; Qatar Gas Trans- the March meeting of the Fed- expect the Fed to raise interest ment, strengthened against its major growth—particularly in number 0.2 percent at 17,191.26 points in port and drilling rig provider Gulf International Services eral Reserve,” said analyst Jasper rates further at its two-day meet- peers. Investors were closely watch- two economy China. afternoon trade, the S&P 500 was declined 6.5 and 4.9 percent respectively. The largest Lawler at CMC Markets. “Equity ing which ends Wednesday, the ing the BoJ as concerns mount that “The elevated expectations down 0.5 percent at 2,009.99 points listed bank by market value, Qatar National Bank , fell benchmarks remain close to two- markets will be listening carefully central banks are low on firepower over central banks maintaining while the Nasdaq was down 0.6 1.4 percent. month highs but no extra stimulus for indications for when it will do to boost the sagging world economy. their current policy measures to percent at 4,721.55 points. BUSINESS VIEWS WEDNESDAY 16 MARCH 2016 31

Auto and power firms Day of reckoning nigh for save millions swapping copper for aluminium many banks in India

By Eric Onstad, Yuka poles and lower the risk of cables Obayashi and Reem snapping, the spokesman said. Shamseddine The automotive sector also Reuters has benefited from innovations, boosting the potential for further use of lightweight aluminium to help the industry cut vehicle ANUFACTURERS are weight to help meet stricter emis- abandoning copper for sion standards. Having already its lighter and cheaper switched to aluminium radi- rival aluminium after a ators from copper, it had been Mdecade of technological innovation cautious of expanding the use to that is saving some companies hun- wiring, partly because aluminium dreds of millions of dollars. is more susceptible to corrosion. Japanese auto giant Toyota But Japan’s Furukawa and Saudi’s power company are Automotive Systems, a unit among those making the switch of Furukawa Electric Co, has while Sapa, a supplier of alumin- developed new corrosion-proof ium components, said it has seen terminals for aluminium wires in a pickup in demand. Some sectors a harness, the backbone of a car’s including shipbuilding, building electrical system, a spokesman construction and electric circuitry said. Furukawa has been sup- will still need copper’s high con- plying aluminium wire harness ductivity, flexibility and durability. systems to Honda’s light vehi- But developments in alumin- cles and Toyota’s luxury vehicles. ium wiring that compensate for A spokesman for Toyota Motor lower conductivity and less flex- Corp confirmed the use of alu- ibility, new ways to stop corrosion minium harnesses in its Land and more efficient conductors, Cruiser, but declined to reveal mean there is more scope to plans for other models. Germany’s replace copper in power grid Leoni started supplying alumin- cables, auto wiring, air condi- ium cables for luxury cars about tioning and refrigeration systems. five years ago, and is expecting By Anto Antony and the past year, with State Bank of India declin- wasn’t “fully correct” and noted that Essar Saudi Electricity Co said to expand to mass-market autos, George Smith Alexander ing 35 percent and ICICI Bank Ltd. down 33 Steel’s financial situation is significantly it has already saved SR2.4bn spokesman Sven Schmidt said. Bloomberg percent. Eleven banks in India reported losses improving. ($640.09m) by shifting from cop- A car can be about 1kg lighter in the quarter that ended in December due Bank of Baroda, India’s third-larg- per to aluminium in its medium if aluminium cables are used to surging bad loans after the RBI began the est lender by assets, is the only bank that voltage distribution network. instead of copper and this differ- audit, known as the asset quality review, on expects an improvement in profits for the “We started more than a year ence is expected to climb to 4kg HE day of reckoning is coming: October 1. quarter ending in March after reporting ago and we plan to continue,” within five years, he said. The Reserve Bank of India is due “Such huge losses are happening for the record losses in the quarter before. The SEC’s Chief Executive Ziyad As more companies make the to complete its audit of all 50 of the first time,” said Vibha Batra, group head 108-year-old lender found it “sensible to Alshiha said. A push for innova- switch, the impact on the copper country’s banks by the end of this for financial sector ratings in New Delhi at bite the bullet, show the losses and move tion to overcome the obstacles to and aluminium markets could month, forcing them to lay bare Moody’s Investors Service’s local unit, ICRA on,” Chief Executive Officer P S Jayaku- substituting the two metals gath- be substantial. Benchmark cop- their hidden non-performing loans, Ltd. “RBI’s audit is bringing out the hidden mar said after reporting losses of Rs33bn ered speed in 2011 when copper per prices on the London Metal Tstop making new loans to deadbeat borrowers stress on banks’ balance sheets.” in the three months to December 31 and prices spiked to $10,000 a tonne Exchange slumped by about a just to pay the interest on their already-bad RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan has con- providing for all its stressed loans at once. while aluminium, suffering from a quarter last year on fears that a ones, and set aside more cash to cover their tinually warned about hidden bad loans on Others including State Bank of India, supply glut, was $2,525. The price slower economy could lead to lower write-offs. Indian banks’ books. At a bankers’ conference ICICI and Punjab National Bank have said gap has more than halved, but demand from China, the world’s That means India’s already-ugly bad loan last month, he said banks were continuing they’re spreading out the pain, providing aluminium is still around $3,400 biggest consumer of metals. situation is set to get even worse. The banks so to offer “fresh lending to keep the original guidance that indicates another quarter cheaper than its rival. And China is likely to need far have been willing to disclose that $131bn, loan current,” in other words allowing bor- of surging bad-loan provisioning when “Ten years of high (copper) 100,000-250,000 tonnes less or about 14 percent of their total lending, has rowers with bad loans to take new loans to the RBI’s audit is finished. prices incentivised many players copper this year, Goldman Sachs gone bad since the RBI stepped up pressure make their interest payments. In the mean- “The surgery is not over yet,” Usha involved throughout the supply has estimated, because the on them last year. Another $36bn may yet be time, the borrower does little to address its Ananthasubramanian, Chief Executive chain to invest in the R&D and authorities released quality stand- added to that total, bringing total non-per- underlying problems that prevent it from pay- Officer of Punjab National Bank told make more substitution possi- ards for low-voltage aluminium forming loans to 18 percent, when the audit ing its loans back in the first place, he said. reporters last month after reporting a 92 ble,” said analyst Patrick Jones at alloy power cables, giving indus- finishes on March 31, according to Credit Banks are still trying to recover as much as percent slump in profits from the previ- Nomura in London. The biggest trial users more confidence to Suisse Group AG. $1.36bn of debt owed by Kingfisher Airlines ous year on surging bad loan provisions. potential for switching from cop- replace copper ones. “Full recognition Ltd’s founder Vijay Mallya. High taxes and fuel “We have to clean up thoroughly.” per is in the power sector, where “Substitution could pose a sig- of stressed loans is yet prices grounded the airline in 2012. Mallya Capital buffers at the lenders will stay aluminium is already widely used nificant threat to copper demand to happen,” analysts has been seeking a “one-time settlement” above the levels prescribed by the so- in overhead high-voltage cables over the next decade, which could including Ashish Gupta with lenders, he said in a March 6 statement. called Basel III norms as the country’s from power stations but is now add up to 2-3 million tonnes a wrote last month, not- “The asset quality problems have been government and central bank take steps to attractive for wiring branching year of total demand destruction,” ing that while only 10 long known, but it is now out of the closet, bolster the capital adequacy ratios. India’s off from substations. Nomura’s Jones said in a note. percent to 20 percent and banks have to address it,” S Sriniwasan, government has already announced plans Japan’s Kansai Electric The copper industry plays down of loans to the strug- Chief Executive Officer at Kotak Special Situ- to invest at least Rs250bn in the lenders Power last year began replacing the threat, saying many industrial gling steel industry ations Credit Fund, said yesterday, a day after they control to boost capital ratios in the 50-year-old copper distribution users are still wary of a switch. Glo- have been classified as the Canada Pension Plan Investment Board year that starts on April 1. cabling in Osaka prefecture with bal copper demand will rise to 22.2 Eleven banks in India impaired, the borrowers announced plans to invest as much as $450m The central bank also eased rules aluminium. A spokesman said its million tonnes this year from 21.9 reported losses in the are unlikely to become in his fund to buy stressed assets from the allowing lenders to consider reserves plans to replace some 140,000km million in 2015, according to Thom- quarter that ended profitable even if steel lenders. associated with property revaluations of copper cabling over 30 years son Reuters data. “In the automotive prices recover signif- The scale of the problems started becom- and foreign-currency translations as com- would save tens of billions of yen. sector, there’s risk of possible tech- in December due to icantly. “Almost 86 ing apparent almost a year ago, when a usual mon-equity Tier 1 capital, which according Their new aluminium wires nical failure, warranty claims and surging bad loans after percent of steel sector quarterly audit of Bank of India forced the to CLSA Ltd.’s estimates could free up as compensated for the downside the unknown aspect of using alu- debt is with companies Mumbai-based lender to increase provisions much as $8bn in capital for state-run of being thicker with a dimpled minium with all of its technical the RBI began the under a high degree of on loans to Essar Steel India Ltd. A number banks. design that reduces wind pressure issues,” said Colin Bennett, global audit, known as the stress.” of Indian lenders subsequently were forced Analysts continue to express concerns and helps repel snow meaning market analyst with the European Indian bank shares to acknowledge that loans to the steel man- regarding banks’ ability to recover bad they can use existing electric Copper Institute. asset quality review, on have been among the ufacturer totalling $6.5bn may be tough to loans due to India’s lack of a legal sys- October 1. worst performers in recover, people with knowledge of the mat- tem that offers quick resolution of disputes Asia outside Japan over ter said. An Essar spokesman said the number regarding recovery of assets. If oil prices have hit bottom, the top may not be too far away

By Grant Smith the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting for crude is flawed, according to Sanford C ultimately sank near $40 again by August. The Bloomberg Countries set for its biggest slump since 1992, Bernstein & Co, which sees prices returning to resilience of US production has taken Opec by “prices might have bottomed out,” according $70 in the next year. The industry can’t stay surprise, Secretary-General Abdalla El Badri to the IEA. Yet world crude benchmarks may profitable at current price levels, having lost said last month. Break-even prices at North struggle to push past $50 a barrel this year $3 for each barrel produced last year even as American shale wells declined by 40 percent HE top of the oil market may be closer as any further price recovery only delays the companies squeezed costs, it said. between 2013 and 2015, according to consult- than you think. With Brent futures production cuts needed to balance the mar- “The price of oil has to rise to balance the ant Rystad Energy AS. Crude output remains having bounced back as high as $41 ket, according to the median of a Bloomberg market in the medium run, and the medium near 9m barrels a day even as data from Baker a barrel, the International Energy survey of nine analysts. run might be sooner than people think,” ana- Hughes Inc. shows drillers are using the fewest TAgency sees “light at the end of the tunnel,” While US crude production has retreated lysts including Bob Brackett in New York said. rigs since 2009. and Goldman Sachs Group Inc is spotting 5.5 percent since last summer, the process The rally could in any case sputter out The reduction in costs makes Opec’s fore- “green shoots”. Even so, many analysts warn of depleting bloated inventories is just get- before it even reaches the point that revives cast for a 700,000 barrel-a-day contraction that, like the failed rally last year, this recov- ting started, according to Goldman Sachs. US production, according to UBS’s Staunovo. in non-Opec output this year “more uncer- While US crude ery will sputter once prices go high enough The bank, which foresaw oil’s plunge into the Temporary price support from pipeline dis- tain,” the group said in its monthly oil-market to keep US crude flowing. $20s, predicts prices still need to stay low ruptions in Iraq will fade, while talks between report. As a result of efficiency gains, the production has “If prices keep going up, US production enough to starve producers of capital, oth- Opec and non-members on freezing sup- “shale band ” —the price range that allows retreated 5.5 percent from shale producers is extremely respon- erwise the output losses necessary to remove ply while have little impact, he said. Iran output to be profitable — has fallen by about sive,” Jamie Webster, vice president of crude the supply surplus won’t happen. still insists it won’t accept any freeze until $10 since last year to $45-$55 a barrel, said since last summer, the markets at IHS Energy, said in a Bloomberg “An early rally in prices before a deficit it restores about 1 million barrels of exports Olivier Jakob, managing director at consultant process of depleting Television interview. “Falling US production materializes would prove self-defeating,” Jef- now that sanctions have been lifted, Russian Petromatrix GmbH, who originated the term. is the key dynamic you need to get supply frey Currie, head of commodities research at Energy Minister Alexander Novak said. This year’s rally has already buoyed US bloated inventories is to equal demand, and that might not actu- Goldman Sachs in New York, said in a report This year’s price trend is nonetheless sim- drillers, who raised $10bn of extra funds on just getting started, ally happen,” meaning prices could fall again. on March 11. The recovery “could throw a life- ilar to last year, IHS’s Webster said. West Texas Wall Street. There’s a cache of suspended according to Goldman Brent futures have recovered about line to US producers” that would “limit oil Intermediate crude climbed 40 percent from wells stretching from south Texas to the 40 percent from the 12-year low of $27.10 production declines,” said Giovanni Stau- late March 2015 as US drilling plummeted, yet Rocky Mountains that can be completed as Sachs. reached in January, trading for $38.60 yester- novo, an analyst at UBS Group AG in Zurich. stalled near $61 that summer as the nation’s soon as prices rise high enough, according to day morning in London. With output outside The argument that $50 represents a ceiling production kept going. The US benchmark analysts at Bloomberg Intelligence. 32 WEDNESDAY 16 MARCH 2016 BUSINESS

BACK TO BUSINESS sight Battery-hungry world turns to UK rate-cut odds rising and Brexit South America’s ‘lithium triangle’ could tip the scales By Rosalba O’Brien chemicals in the mix — as well as a and Rod Nickel prickly investment environment. Reuters Chile, though, is popular with By Fergal O’Brien Thursday, policy maker Gertjan investors for its free market creden- and Joshua Robinson Vlieghe has said that if prospects tials, while the dry desert climate is Bloomberg worsen, he would consider vot- “perfect” for lithium production, said ing to cut. AR from the soy and cat- Brian Jaskula, a U.S. Geological Sur- “The weakness of recent tle that dominate its vast vey mineral commodity specialist. HE chances of a U.K. activity surveys suggests an fertile pampas, Argentina The key lithium site in Chile is the interest-rate cut are interest-rate cut will be dis- harbours another valu- vast Salar de Atacama salt flat, where rising. Economists in cussed,” said Samuel Tombs, able commodity that is local firm SQM and foreign-owned Bloomberg’s monthly an economist at Pantheon Mac- rocketing in price and Rockwood have operations. Tsurvey put the likelihood of a roeconomics. There’s an outside Fdemand and luring newly welcomed SQM was privatised in the 1980s reduction in the Bank of Eng- chance that one member will foreign investors. during General Augusto Pinochet’s land’s benchmark rate this year vote to loosen, though they’ll Lithium, the so-called “white regime and a former son-in-law of the at 23 percent. While that’s still a likely “reiterate that rates are petroleum”, drives much of the late dictator owns a controlling stake. long shot, the odds are up from ‘more likely than not’ to rise over modern world. It forms a small but But it is on uneasy terms with the just 10 percent a month ago. the next two years,” he said. essentially irreplaceable component current leftist government. In the last The shift follows remarks The BOE’s meeting takes place of rechargeable batteries, used in two years, it has run afoul of author- from BOE officials including against the backdrop of Chan- consumer devices like mobile phones ities over market manipulation and Governor Mark Carney that the cellor of the Exchequer George and electric cars. It also has pharma- dubious tax invoices, and is in arbi- Monetary Policy Committee has Osborne’sannual budget, which is Workers use a boat to take samples from a brine pool at the Rockwood ceutical and other applications. tration with economic development room to ease again if needed. The due tomorrow. His push to meet Over half of the earth’s identified Lithium plant on the Atacama salt flat, the largest lithium deposit agency Corfo over royalties. next rate decision is this week his fiscal mandate — a surplus by resources of the mineral are found in currently in production, in the Atacama desert of northern Chile. Now US specialty chemicals firm and though economists say the 2020 — will see the UK facing an South America’s “lithium triangle”, Albemarle Corp is muscling in on UK doesn’t need more stimulus even bigger squeeze on govern- an otherworldly landscape of high- orthodoxy, removing onerous capi- revolution is US agricultural and SQM’s turf. Having spent $6bn last now, the big risk on the horizon is ment spending over the coming altitude lakes and bright white salt tal controls and sending a message chemical conglomerate FMC Corp. year to buy Rockwood, it then signed June’s European Union referen- years. He told the BBC on Sunday flats that straddles Chile, Argentina that the country is open for business FMC is already producing lithium a deal with Corfo in its drive to triple dum. A vote to leave the bloc could that the world is a “more uncer- and Bolivia. again after more than a decade of from the Salar de Hombre Muerto salt lithium output in Chile.. push Britain toward a recession tain place.” Until recently, that was not great protectionism. flat in northern Argentina. Lithium In addition to Tesla, traditional and force the BOE to respond. Respondents in the Bloomb- news for investors. Argentina and “For 10 or 12 years, (Argentina) provides a small but growing part of car companies including Nissan and “A vote for ‘Brexit’ might erg survey — conducted between Bolivia lacked predictability and was a do-not-invest zone. The tone FMC’s revenues, with forecast sales BMW operate in the burgeoning change the landscape and tip March 4 and March 11 — pre- a friendly business environment, of doing business has just swung 180 of around $250m this year. electric vehicle industry. Germany’s the balance in favor of easing, dicted a UK economic expansion while Chile kept strict control over degrees,” said Tom Hodgson, the chief “Now the (Argentine) adminis- Daimler recently announced that it but this is something we will only of 2 percent this year, down from lithium output. executive of Western Lithium, which tration is starting to change policy, would build a new lithium-ion bat- be able to evaluate properly after 2.2 percent forecast last month. But that may be all about to change. is developing a project in the coun- it’s giving us even more confidence tery factory, while technology firms the referendum,” said Peter Dixon, Their 2017 prognosis remains In Chile, a sale of state lithium deposits try due to begin production next year. that it will be a predictable and cost- like Samsung and Foxconn are also an economist at Commerzbank unchanged at 2.2 percent. and a shake-up in the way the country Argentina now has a “major oppor- effective operation,” FMC Lithium key users. AG in London. “So long as growth Those estimates could change manages its resources has awakened tunity” to build a lithium export Vice-President Tom Schneberger said. As prices rise, they are keen to holds up and inflation doesn’t go if voters opt for Brexit. In a poll interest from everyone from early- business, Hodgson said. Demand for lithium is set to out- lock in deals. Lithium carbonate is into reverse, I would expect the in February, economists said stage mining companies to electric Western Lithium is work- strip supply by 2023, according to selling for $6,400 per kilo, up from MPC to stand pat.” it would push the odds of a UK carmakers like Tesla. ing with Korean steelmaker Posco, specialist consultants Stormcrow $5,180 in 2011. Prices in the opaque Yet even excluding the recession to 40 percent. In Argentina, already the world’s whose chairman was in Argentina Capital, with the lion’s share coming Chinese market are reportedly higher. potential of the EU vote to sap con- A rate reduction this year may no. 3 lithium producer after Chile and last month to meet with Macri and from rechargeable batteries. Tesla and other car manufactur- fidence, the outlook has dimmed. be the minority view among econ- Australia, investors are hopeful that begin the construction of a new lith- Bolivia has more identified lith- ers have been to Chile to see if they The BOE cut its growth forecasts omists, but feeble UK inflation the new Mauricio Macri government ium plant, due to begin commercial ium resources than any other country, could ensure future lithium supplies, in February and services, the big- also means an increase is proba- that took over in December will her- production within a year. The explor- but commercially it’s likely to be according to Ignacio Moreno, Chile’s gest part of the economy, grew bly far off. Analysts pushed back ald a brighter future. atory mining company Orocobre is “shunted to the side for an extended deputy mining minister. Tesla said it the slowest in three years. While the predicted timing of a hike to Business-friendly Macri has also developing a project. period”, says Jon Hykawy, Storm- has signed three deals with explor- the MPC is forecast to keep its key the first quarter of 2017 from the begun making sweeping changes in a But the company perhaps best set crow’s president. Bolivia has natural atory companies outside Chile that rate at a record-low 0.5 percent on fourth quarter of 2016. bid to return the country to economic to benefit from an Argentine lithium challenges — too much rain, other would “not provide all” its lithium.

Emerging markets are at a turning Capital point with a reversal in sight, signaling Mark Mobius, Executive optimism after the worst annual rout Chairman at Templeton Comment in four years. Emerging Markets Group

TOP TWEETS BLOGS AND VIEWS Gold hits lowest Market Talk since March 2 Fitch Ratings @ MoneyBeat FitchRatings LONDON: Gold fell to its lowest in almost two weeks yesterday ahead Issuance Doubles, 6 NAME IN THE MARKET: DEBT MATURITIES of a Federal Reserve meeting that Defaults in China’s Cor- American oil producers and is expected to give clues on the porate Bond Market oilfield-services companies are pace of future U.S. rate rises. warning that they may not be Spot gold fell to $1,225.70 an able to jump-start drilling despite ounce, its lowest since March 2, Morgan Stanley @ at one point and was down 0.3 their bounty of shale fields. Many percent at $1,231.50 by 1439 GMT. MorganStanley independent companies are too U.S. gold futures slid 1 percent to $1,232.70 an ounce. #Greenbond offer- financially strapped, have idled too Worries about global growth ings are growing much equipment to immediately and financial instability had led in the sustainable investment space ramp up again. investors to reprice prospects for increases in US rates, sending safe- haven gold to a 13-month high Argaam Plus @ last week. But solid readings from Wealth Adviser US data have rekindled market ArgaamPlus expectations of further tightening this year. “One difference from a Saudi’s #ACWA Power few weeks ago is that the surprise takes 70% stake in (from the Fed) would be a rate #Jordan’s #solar firm Nearly three-quarters of financial advisers surveyed hike, whereas perhaps a few weeks ago people thought a surprise by Fidelity Investments are would be a rate cut,” Macquarie analyst Matthew Turner said. KPMG US @KPMG_US concerned that the Labor Department’s coming fiduciary- Gold’s weakness over the last two sessions followed Friday’s Funding, resources & duty rule will have a negative brief bounce to a 13-month high new #tech = greatest after the European Central Bank concerns for private impact on how they do company directors. business. signalled an end to rate cuts. Spot silver fell 0.5 percent to $15.24 an ounce. www.thepeninsulaqatar.com PAGE | 35 PAGE | 38 El Jaish aim to Athletes and public extend perfect ACL are demanding record answers: Reedie

WEDNESDAY 16 MARCH 2016 • 7 Jumada II 1437 thepeninsulaqatar @peninsulaqatar @peninsula_qatar Al Attiyah tops entry list for Kuwait Rally

next Thursday afternoon on March way back in 1981 before it became a The second round of 24. Record-breaking Qatari driver round of the regional series. Compe- Nasser Saleh Al Attiyah will lead the tition is likely to be fierce from the FIA Middle East Rally field in his Skoda Fabia R5. Qatari contingent of Abdullah Al Championship (MERC) The 11-time regional champion Kuwari, Khalifa Al Attiyah, Rashid and five-time Kuwait Rally winner Al Naimi and Edith Weiss, while the to start at Sirbb broke Mohammed Ben Sulayem’s veteran Lebanese driver Michel Saleh Circuit next Thursday long-standing record of 60 MERC returns to MERC action with navi- wins last month in Qatar and returns gator Ahmed Ghaziri in his Subaru to rallying after spending several Impreza N15. weeks in Cyprus honing his skeet Saleh has taken part in the shooting skills in preparation for the regional series since its inception and Action from the Qatar Cup basketball match between Al Shamal and Al Khor at Al Rayyan Indoor Stadium The Peninsula Olympic Games in Rio this summer. won the Kuwait Rally back in 1984 at Competition in the R5 cate- the wheel of a Toyota Celica GT. in Doha yesterday. Al Shamal won 87-77. gory will come from fellow Qatari Other entrants in the NR4 class Abdulaziz Al Kuwari in a second include the Iranian duo of Hassan KUWAIT CITY (KUWAIT): The Skoda and 2012 event winner Kha- Akbarnejadbaei and Laleh Seddigh, Basil Salem Al-Sabah Motor Rac- lid Al Suwaidi in a Ford Fiesta, while the two Turkish Mitsubishi Lancer Basketball: Mildon shines as Al ing Club (BMRC) has announced an Kuwait’s Masoud Al Saleh lines up in Evolution Xs of Yigit Timur and Vedat impressive entry list for next week- a Ford Fiesta S2000. Diker and the Saudi Arabian driver end’s Kuwait International Rally, Both Al Kuwari and Al Suwaidi Rakan Al-Rashed. round two of the 2016 FIA Middle suffered disappointing retirements Lebanon’s Rodolphe Asmar Shamal edge Al Khor in Qatar Cup East Rally Championship (MERC), from the recent Rally Mexico and will completes the provisional line-up taking place on March 24-26. be hoping to kick-start their seasons with experienced navigator Joseph The three-day event, being held in Kuwait. The remainder of the field Matar in another Mitsubishi. Both under the chairmanship of Sheikh is entered in the highly competitive Asmar and Al-Sabah are also eligi- The Peninsula Athbi Nayef Jaber Al-Ahmad Al- NR4 class for Group N cars. ble for points in the regional Junior Sabah, and in conjunction with the Likely front-runners in this Championship. General Authority for Sport and category include the Kuwaiti After a timed super special at DOHA: Ambres Mildon and Kosar Kuwait International Automobile quintet of current national cham- the Sirbb Circuit on March 24, com- Abdulqadir along with Hachad Club (KIAC), has attracted a provi- pionship leader Meshari Al Thafiri, petitors will tackle six gravel stages Mohamed Kamal did the bulk of sional 21 cars, with drivers taking Jassim Al Muqahwi, Mohammed Al on, March 25 and a further six in the scoring for Al Shamal in their 87-77 part from Kuwait, Qatar, Lebanon, Thafiri, Saleh Ali, Elie Chachati same area on Saturday, March 26. win over Al Khor in the Qatar Cup Iran, Turkey and Saudi Arabia. and rookie Sheikh Jaber Al Sabah, Rally headquarters will be based basketball at Al Rayyan Indoor Co-drivers from Kuwait, Qatar, who hopes to benefit from recent at the Safir Hotel and Residences in Stadium yesterday. France, Ireland, Italy, Lebanon, rally training. Both Meshari and Fintas, while the Sea Shell Julai’a Mildon top scored for the Cyprus, Turkey, Iran, Finland and Mohammed Al Thafiri are the sons Hotel and Resort will host the rally winners scoring 26 points while Germany will ensure 12 nations are of legendary Kuwaiti driver Ahmed Al control and offer amenities for the Abdulqadir and Kamal with 24 represented at the ceremonial start Thafiri, a winner of the Kuwait event nearby service park. and 22 points all combined to give coach Hassam Hachad a well deserved win. Al Shamal took off at a quick pace taking a run away 32-10 lead in the first quarter and maintained a consistent run in the next three quarters to pocket the tie. At the end of the second period Al Shaml led 50-27 and went into the final quarter with the score reading at 69-45. For Al Khor, Rembert Patrick Ronald top scored with 25 points while Abouo Charles (14), Hadz- ibegovic Alen (12) and Adam Abdulaziz (11) were the other sig- nificant scorers. In the second match, El Jaish defeated Al Wakrah 96-83.

Qatar’s Nasser Saleh Al Attiyah in action at the Cyprus Rally in this file picture. Marco Verratti of PSG at Aspetar

2nd Qatar International Taekwondo Open

Marco Verratti, midfielder for Paris Saint-Germain football club and the Italian national team arrived in Action from the 2nd Qatar International Taekwondo Open Championship at Aspire Zone in Doha Doha yesterday morning with Paris Saint-Germain’s first doctor for comprehensive medical screenings yesterday. RIGHT: A medal winner celebrates during the victory ceremony. Over 400 athletes from at Aspetar, the orthopaedic and sports medicine hospital. During his visit, Verratti commended the 30 countries took part in the four-day championship which concluded yesterday. hospital’s advanced facilities and services. 34 WEDNESDAY 16 MARCH 2016 SPORT New Zealand stun India as spin gamble pays off

“But at the same time we are Kiwi spin trio of looking to do the best we can in these conditions. Certainly the spin- Santner, McCullum ners paid off today. The wicket spun and Sodhi wrecks a lot and they bowled very well on it.” The first three balls of the hosts to inflict 47-run match contained the kind of drama defeat in World T20 and excitement that fans would be New Zealand’s players celebrate the dismissal of India’s Suresh Raina. expecting from the sixth edition of the tournament in cricket’s emotional SCOREBOARD and financial home in India. AFP After Williamson won the toss NEW ZEALAND INDIA and decided to set a target, Mar- M Guptill lbw Ashwin 6 R Sharma st Ronchi b Santner 5 tin Guptill nonchalantly hit the first delivery from Ravichandran Ashwin K Williamson st Dhoni b Raina 8 S Dhawan lbw McCullum 1 NAGPUR, INDIA: Kane Williamson’s over the bowler’s head for a six. C Munro c Pandya b Nehra 7 V Kohli c Ronchi b Sodhi 23 gamble to compromise on speed and The off-spinner settled score in C Anderson b Bumrah 34 S Raina c Guptill b Santner 1 pick three specialist spinners paid off the very next ball, trapping the bats- R Taylor (run out-Raina) 10 Y Singh c&b McCullum 4 as New Zealand humbled hosts India man leg before with a delivery that, M Santner c Dhoni b Jadeja 18 M S Dhoni c McCullum b Santner 30 by 47 runs in a spin-dominated Super replay suggested, would have gone 10 contest of the World Twenty20 yes- over the stumps. G Elliott (run out-Dhawan) 9 H Pandya lbw Santner 1

terday. New man in Colin Munro reverse L Ronchi (not out) 21 R Jadeja c&b Sodhi 0 Opting to bat first, New Zealand hit the next ball for a six but threw his N McCullum (not out) 0 R Ashwin st Ronchi b Sodhi 10 posted 126-7 in the Group Two con- wicket in the next over. Extras (B-4, LB-3, W-6) 13 A Nehra b Milne 0 test on a prodigiously turning track As wickets kept tumbling at the Total (for 7 wkts in 20 overs) 126 J Bumrah (not out) 0 at Nagpur’s VCA Stadium, seemingly other end, Corey Anderson (34) tried a below-par total against the host to steady the innings and it was Luke Did not bat: A Milne, I Sodhi Extras (W-3, NB-1) 4 nation who are famed for their pro- Ronchi’s (21 not out) 11-ball cameo Fall of wickets: 1-6, 2-13, 3-35, 4-61, 5-89, Total (all out in 18.1 overs) 79 ficiency against spin bowling. that took them past the 125-mark. 6-98, 7-114. Fall of wickets: 1-5, 2-10, 3-12, 4-26, 5-39, New Zealand’s three-pronged The Indian fans expected the Bowling: Ashwin 4-0-32-1; Nehra 3-0-21-1; 6-42, 7-43, 8-73, 9-79. spin attack, however, ensured it was chase to be a stroll in the park but Bowling: McCullum 3-0-15-2; Anderson 3-0- Bumrah 4-0-15-1; Raina 4-0-15-1; Jadeja 4-0- more than enough as Mitchell Sant- Santner, who was adjudged man-of- 18-0; Santner 4-0-11-4; Elliott 2-0-9-0; Milne ner (4-11), Nathan McCullum (2-15) the-match, and McCullum had other 26-1; Pandya 1-0-10-0. 2.1-0-8-1; Sodhi 4-0-18-3. and the Indian-born Ish Sodhi (3-18) ideas. They blew away India’s top wrecked the hosts who folded for 79 order, reducing them to 26-4 in the in 18.1 overs. fifth over to derail their chase. ‘finisher’ could not get his team down,” the home captain said after Williamson said it was not an Virat Kohli (23) resisted the over the line. India’s fifth futile attempt to beat New easy decision to drop the pace duo onslaught for a while but Sodhi struck New Zealand beat India at their Zealand in Twenty20 Internationals. of Tim Southee and Trent Boult to a crucial blow with his very first ball own game with their spinners claim- “There were quite a few soft dis- accommodate the spinners. to send back the Indian batting main- ing nine of the 10 wickets but Dhoni missals. It was not like the deliveries New Zealand’s bowler Mitchell Santner celebrates after taking the wicket “Obviously that was tough, they stay. Home captain Mahendra Singh insisted the defeat was more down to got a lot of batsmen out. Maybe it was of India’s batsman Hardik Pandya during the World T20 tournament at are world class bowlers,” the Kiwi Dhoni waged a lone battle with a his team’s careless batting. our shot selection... there was no part- the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium in Nagpur yesterday. captain said. run-a-ball 30 but the celebrated “It was our batting that let us nership also,” Dhoni rued.

World T20 Pakistan looking for revenge Today fixtures Super 10 Group 2 - Bangladesh vs Pakistan at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, 9.30am GMT against Bangladesh in opener Super 10 Group 1 - England vs West Indies at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai, 14.00 GMT

AFP earlier this month when Bangladesh “It takes less than a minute to lose clinched a five-wicket win over Paki- form and to get it back as well. T20 Windies’ Sammy stan in Dhaka, sealing a place in the cricket is like that, we’re hoping that KOLKATA: Bangladesh will look to final of the Asia Cup which they lost he’s one innings away from getting backs Russell over compound the misery of beleaguered to India. back his old form,” said Younis. Pakistan today in their opening group Bangladesh was part of Pakistan Bangladesh’s build-up has been match of the World Twenty20, fresh before a brutal 1971 war of separa- serene in comparison to the dramas missed drug test from humbling their arch-rivals in tion, and matches between the sides in Pakistan’s camp. But after seeing the Asia Cup. therefore always have an extra edge off Oman, the Netherlands and Ire- reports Despite their recent improve- to them. land in the preliminaries, Mortaza ments in 50-over cricket, Bangladesh Mashrafe Mortaza’s side can knows the hard work now begins in have a rotten record in the World T20 expect strong support from their fel- a group that includes India, Australia AFP and have never beaten Pakistan in low Bengalis in what is the capital of and New Zealand. the premier tournament of cricket’s the Indian state of West Bengal. “In that group you can’t make shortest format. But Afridi has been making his any mistakes, you have to be up to MUMBAI: West Indies captain But they will fancy their chances own overtures towards the locals the mark everywhere,” said the vet- Darren Sammy yesterday backed like never before at Kolkata’s Eden by claiming his team has received eran bowler. team-mate Andre Russell to star at Gardens against a team who are on more “love” from fans in India than Teams: Bangladesh (from): the World Twenty20 after reports a miserable run and whose prepa- back home, comments that incensed Mashrafe Mortaza (captain), Shakib the all-rounder could face a sus- rations have been hit by their late former Pakistan skipper Javed Al Hasan, Abu Hider, Al-Amin Hos- pension for missing three drugs arrival in India in a row over security. Miandad. sain, Arafat Sunny, Mahmudullah, tests. Bangladesh cruised through last Pakistan coach Waqar Younis Mohammad Mithun, Mushfiqur Russell, 27, could be banned week’s preliminary round and know said that the team’s troubled build- Rahim, Mustafizur Rahman, Nasir for two years if found guilty by the that a victory over Pakistan will set up to the tournament did not mean Hossain, Nurul Hasan, Sabbir Rah- Jamaica Anti-Doping Commission them up nicely if they are to make the they should be written off. man, Soumya Sarkar, Tamim Iqbal, (JADCO) of missing the tests over semi-finals for the first time. “We’re the kind of team that once Taskin Ahmed the past 12 months, recent media Star batsman Tamim Iqbal is in we get the momentum going, we can Pakistan (from): Shahid Afridi reports in Jamaica said. the form of his life, scoring Bangla- surprise people,” Younis said in a pre- (captain), Anwar Ali, Imad Wasim, “We as a team have supported desh’s first ever international T20 match press conference. Khalid Latif, Khurram Manzoor, Russell,” Sammy told reporters century in Sunday’s victory over The former bowling great also Mohammad Amir, Mohammad in Mumbai a day ahead of the Oman after scores of 83 and 47 in backed the big-hitting Afridi to redis- Hafeez, Mohammad Irfan, Moham- West Indies’ opening World T20 Bangladesh’s Shakib Al Hasan looks on during a training session ahead the first two games. cover the kind of form with the bat mad Nawaz, Mohammad Sami, clash against England at the city’s Fans in the cricket-mad nation that earned him the nickname Boom Sarfraz Ahmed, Shoaib Malik, Shar- of their first WT20 match against Pakistan at Eden Gardens in Kolkata Wankhede Stadium. held impromptu street parties Boom. jeel Khan, Umar Akmal, Wahab Riaz. yesterday. “We are confident he will be taking part in the full tourna- ment and having an impact like he’s done in the last four tourna- ments he’s played (in) around the world,” Sammy added. West Indies’ ‘Gayle Storm’ set to hit England Failing to be available for a test is regarded as the equivalent of testing positive for a performance- enhancing substance, meaning AFP while the row was resolved at the 11th after he asked an Australian TV pre- who are looking to add to their 2012 New Zealand in a warm-up game on Russell faces a long spell on the hour, relations between players and senter for a date live on air in January World T20 title, face a tough prospect Saturday. sidelines if his violation is con- the country’s cricket board remain during the Big Bash League. at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium in Teams: firmed. The right-handed batsman MUMBAI: Controversial batsman tense. He also lit up the tournament for the shape of a new, attack-minded West Indies (from): Darren has not incurred any sanctions or Chris Gayle will be looking to ensure Their preparations have also been the right reasons, hitting a 12-ball England side. Sammy (captain), Samuel Badree, suspensions from his home cricket the West Indies’ troubled build-up to hit by the withdrawal of all-rounder half-century. Eoin Morgan’s team have turned Sulieman Benn, Carlos Brathwaite, board, meaning he is free to play in the World Twenty20 becomes a dis- Kieron Pollard and off-spinner Sunil Gayle, 36, holds the record for the their fortunes around since they were Dwayne Bravo, Johnson Charles, the sixth edition of the World T20 tant memory when they open their Narine, who is T20 cricket’s top-per- highest ever score in T20s, 175 off 66 dumped out of the 2015 World Cup by Andre Fletcher, Chris Gayle, Jason in India. Russell has played only campaign against England in Mum- forming bowler and has thrived in the balls, and hit the format’s first inter- Bangladesh, adopting a more aggres- Holder, Evin Lewis, Ashley Nurse, one full Test for the West Indies, bai today. Indian Premier League (IPL). national century during the inaugural sive attitude which has seen them up Denesh Ramdin, Andre Russell, Mar- against Sri Lanka in 2010, but has The Windies are out to prove they But in the enigmatic Gayle they World T20 in 2007. their run rate. lon Samuels, Jerome Taylor. carved out a cricket career as a are still a force in the shortest form of possess a batsman capable of destroy- “To me he is the best T20 bats- In Morgan, all-rounder Ben England (from): Eoin Morgan sought after all-rounder in abbre- the game despite their declining Test ing whatever bowling attack he faces man, the most destructive one in this Stokes, opener Jason Roy and classy (captain), Moeen Ali, Sam Billings, viated versions of the game. He status, while England want to atone and single-handedly winning any game so he knows his game inside- right-hander Joe Root, England have Jos Buttler, Liam Dawson, Alex Hales, has regularly played in the West for a humiliating early exit from last match, providing he stays clear of out,” West Indies captain Darren strength in depth but they will miss Chris Jordan, Liam Plunkett, Adil Indies one-day squads and has year’s 50-over World Cup. off-field controversy. Sammy said of the left-handed bats- injured fast bowler Steven Finn. Rashid, Joe Root, Jason Roy, Ben also enjoyed stints with various A pay dispute cast doubt over the The Jamaican, nicknamed “Gayle man last week. England, who won the 2010 World Stokes, Reece Topley, James Vince, T20 sides in India, Australia and West Indies’ appearance in India and Storm”, faced allegations of sexism But the second-ranked Windies, T20, enjoyed a six-wicket win over David Willey. Pakistan. SPORT WEDNESDAY 16 MARCH 2016 35 Wawrinka advances, Murray bows out in Indian Wells

WTA-ATP Indian Wells Two-time Grand Slam Indian Wells, United States: Results winner Murray loses from the sixth day of the WTA-ATP to claycourt specialist Indian Wells tournament on Monday (x denotes seeded player): Delbonis of Argentina Men 3rd round El Jaish coach Sabri Lamouchi (left) and Al Nassr coach Raul Caneda Richard Gasquet (FRA x8) bt Alexandr Dolgopolov (UKR x26) 2-6, 6-2, 6-1 AFP Marin Cilic (CRO x10) bt Leonardo El Jaish aim to extend Mayer (ARG) 6-4, 6-3 David Goffin (BEL x15) bt Guido Pella INDIAN WELLS, United States: (ARG) 4-6, 6-3, 6-2 perfect ACL record French Open champ Stan Wawrinka Milos Raonic (CAN x12) bt Bernard reached the Indian Wells fourth Federico Delbonis of Argentina in action against Andy Murray of Great Tomic (AUS x17) 6-2, 3-0 retired round while world No. 2 Andy Mur- Britain during day eight of the BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells Tennis ray suffered a shock third-round exit Gael Monfils (FRA x13) bt Albert The Peninsula Baydullaev from suspension.“We will at the hands of claycourt specialist Garden in Indian Wells, California on Monday. Ramos (ESP) 6-1, 6-3 have to remain focused throughout Federico Delbonis on Monday. Federico Delbonis (ARG) bt Andy Mur- the entire 90 minutes as El Jaish have Wawrinka toppled Andrey 6-4 upset win over world No. 1 Novak Dogopolov by rallying for a 2-6, 6-2, ray (GBR x2) 6-4, 4-6, 7-6 (7/3) DOHA: Undefeated Group D leaders several attacking players who only Kuznetsov 6-4, 7-6 (7/5) in the third Djokovic to claim his first French 6-1 win to improve to 3-0 lifetime El Jaish have declared their focus is need half a chance to score. round of the ATP and WTA hardcourt Open crown. against the 29th ranked Ukrainian. Tomas Berdych (CZE x6) bt Borna Coric on AFC Champions League success “Even though we are facing tournament and two-time Grand Murray, 28, was playing in his With his victory in Montpel- (CRO) 6-1, 7-6 (7/3) after their Qatar Stars League title strong opponents, we’ve prepared Slam winner Murray lost 6-4, 4-6, first ATP Tour tournament since lier earlier this year, Gasquet Stan Wawrinka (SUI x3) bt Andrey hopes were ended last week ahead very well for this match. We want 7-6 (7/3) to 53rd ranked Argentinian losing to Djokovic in the final of the moved to second place among Kuznetsov (RUS) 6-4, 7-6 (7/5) of today’s meeting with Uzbekistan’s to get a positive result here as our Delbonis. Wawrinka, who turns 31 Australian Open in January. Frenchmen in the Open Era with Nasaf. ambition is to qualify from the later this month, has won two titles “It was a tough one to lose,” 13 career titles. Women 3rd round Al Rayyan wrapped up the Qatar group.” this year in Chennai and Dubai but Murray said of the loss to Delbonis. Canada’s Raonic barely had to title with five matches to spare, leav- In Riyadh, Al Nassr coach Raul Magdalena Rybarikova (SVK) bt has never made it past the quar- “I fought hard to get into a winning break a sweat against Australian Ber- Belinda Bencic (SUI x7) 6-4, 3-6, 6-3 ing El Jaish third following Friday’s Caneda is looking for a repeat of ter-finals in Indian Wells, one of the position. nard Tomic, who retired in the second 2-0 defeat by Al Arabi. his side’s performance against biggest events on the tennis calen- “I couldn’t go for my shots and set with a wrist injury. Roberta Vinci (ITA x9) bt Elina Svi- But after back-to-back 2-1 wins Bunyodkor on Matchday Two dar outside of the four Grand Slams. when I did I made mistakes.” Raonic is trying to improve on his tolina (UKR x17) 6-1, 6-3 against Al Ain of the United Arab when the Saudi Arabian club take Wawrinka next faces 15th seeded Murray, who became a father previous best performance in Indian Victoria Azarenka (BLR x13) bt Shuai Emirates, El Jaish have a perfect on Qatar’s Lekhwiya in Group B David Goffin of Belgium, who beat on February 7 with the birth of his Wells, a semi-final loss to Roger Fed- Zhang (CHN) 6-4, 6-3 record in the AFC Champions League of the AFC Champions League on Guido Pella 4-6, 6-3, 6-2. daughter Sophia Oliva, looked rusty erer last year. and Sabri Lamouchi’s side sit alone Wednesday. Murray’s exit left things wide after his layoff. The 25-year-old Canadian, win- Samantha Stosur (AUS x26) bt Chris- at the top of Group D, three points The Riyadh side sealed a 1-0 win open in the bottom half of the men’s Murray’s forehand on match point ner in Brisbane this year, was up 3-0 tina McHale (USA) 6-4, 2-6, 6-4 clear of both Saudi Arabia’s Al Ahli over the Uzbeks two weeks ago and draw, where Wawrinka, Richard Gas- sailed well wide and long, ending the in the second set in the third round Timea Bacsinszky (SUI x12) bt Euge- and Nasaf. sit on four points, level with Iranian quet, Marin Cilic, Milos Raonic and two hour, 46 minute contest on Sta- tie, after cruising through the first at nie Bouchard (CAN) 6-2, 5-7, 6-2 “After Al Rayyan sealed the side Zob Ahan at the top of the group Tomas Berdych all advanced. dium Court. 6-2, when Tomic called it quits. league title, our concentration now after two rounds of games. Wawrinka is on a nine-match win “He came up with some good In women’s action, Indian Wells Karolina Pliskova (CZE x18) bt Ana is on the AFC Champions League “The strength of Al Nassr Ivanovic (SRB x14) 6-2, 6-0 streak in finals after beating Marcos passing shots. I could have done a bit 2012 champion Victoria Azarenka, and we are aiming to go as far as showed in the previous match Baghdatis in Dubai. He captured his more with the volleys and my serve,” seeded 13th, defeated China’s Zhang Johanna Konta (GBR x25) bt Denisa we can in the competition,” said El against Bunyodkor and we will try third consecutive Chennai crown in Murray said. “He moved better than Shuai 6-4, 6-3. But the event lost Allertova (CZE) 6-4, 6-1 Jaish coach Lamouchi. to follow the same approach against January. what I expected.” another top seed as Swiss seventh “We are in a good position in Lekhwiya,” said former Al Itti- Darya Kasatkina (RUS) bt Monica Puig Last year he won four titles, French eighth seed Gasquet con- seed Belinda Bencic fell to Slovakia’s the competition and winning twice had coach Caneda (pictured), who (PUR) 6-4, 3-6, 7-6 (7/2) including his stunning 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, tinued his mastery over Alexandr Magdalena Rybarikova 6-4, 3-6, 6-3. against Al Ain has given us a big saw his team lose 2-0 in the Saudi push, but that doesn’t mean we have league against local rivals Al Hilal secured our qualification. on Thursday. “Nasaf are an organised side and “We will try our best to fix they’ve shown some good perform- the mistakes that we made and Italian prosecutor wants dozens ances in the competition thus far, but hopefully we can improve our we’re aiming to continue our good performance. home form.” “The Lekhwiya match will be of players probed for betting After losing 2-1 at Al Ahli in their very important because there isn’t opening match, Nasaf bounced back a big difference between the two to win by the same scoreline against teams. I hope that we can finish on the same opponents a week later in top of the group in order to qualify Reuters and gamblers as part of a two-year were Italian, they would certainly Uzbekistan. as the first team in the knockout probe into a suspected match-fixing have been at least questioned,” Di And Nasaf have made a strong stage.” ring involving Italian players. Martino said. start domestically after winning both Lekhwiya, the former Qatar LONDON: More than two dozen Italian duo Potito Starace and “They should have provided some of their opening league matches. Stars League champions who players who feature in evidence Daniele Bracciali have already been explanations.” “This will be a hard match recently lost their domestic crown collected from gamblers should be charged. Both deny any wrongdoing Tennis is already reeling from against a side that won their open- to Al Rayyan, picked up their first investigated for possible links to bet- and will appear in court in May. revelations in a report by the BBC and ing two matches and who have point of the continental campaign Gael Monfils of France serves ting rings, an Italian prosecutor has Di Martino said that the Tennis BuzzFeed in January that 16 players several excellent players, and while with a 0-0 draw against Zob Ahan during his match against told the BBC and BuzzFeed News. Integrity Unit (TIU) should probe who have been ranked in the top 50 we know it will be a tough match, on Matchday Two after losing their Albert Ramos-Vinolas of Spain Roberto di Martino said he had the other players for possible bet- had been repeatedly flagged to the we’re confident of doing well,” said opening meeting with Bunyodkor, in Indian Wells, California on collected Internet chat logs and tele- ting links. TIU over concerns they had thrown Nasaf coach Ruzikul Berdiev, who but Djamal Belmadi’s team sit at the Monday. phone conversations between players “Surely if these foreign players matches. welcomes back midfielder Erkin bottom of the early standings.

Shock as Fiji’s Seru ‘Rambo’ Consistent Camels 1 determined to Rabeni dies at 37 stay on top at Qatar Rugby 7s league AFP

SUVA, FIJI: Former Fiji interna- The Peninsula tional Seru Rabeni (pictured) died yesterday at the age of just 37, rugby officials in the Pacific nation said, DOHA: Qatar Rugby Sevens league prompting shock and tributes from leaders Camels 1 are determined to team-mates and fans. hold to the top slot as they head into Rabeni represented Fiji in the the second phase of the champion- 2003 and 2007 World Cups, com- ship. bining speed with a brutal tackling Speaking at the mid-season style that earned him the nickname media conference on Monday at the “Rambo”. Qatar Olympic Committee headquar- He also played top-flight rugby ters IlIese Rakabu captain of Camels1 in England, New Zealand and said: “We know we are top of the table France during a 16-year career and that boils down to us playing like which included a five-year spell at Scotland’s James Hamilton, a a team, training together, and that’s Leicester. former team-mate at Leicester, very important because all our play- “Incredibly sad news to hear described Rabeni as “an incredible ers are from different countries.” Seru Rabeni has passed away. Rest player and lovely man”. Our idea is to put in our best Qatar Rugby 7s league captains and coaches with Qatar Rugby Federation officials in Doha yesterday. in peace big man,” Fiji Sevens coach Fiji media reported Rabeni died efforts, help each other, and review Ben Ryan tweeted. at his home in Nausori, just out- our games. We have got it easy at the Fiji-born former Wallaby Lote side the capital, Suva, on Tuesday moment but the other teams will have (Camels 1), Talal Mujalli (Camels 2), paid tribute to the QRF for its brave associated with the likes and pro- Tuqiri said Rabeni was “a great morning. a challenge on their hands for second, Jean Barat (Blue Falcons), Syed Asad initiative. Commenting on the cham- fessionalism of Aspire and Aspetar. man taken away too young”, while The Fiji Village website said third and fourth,” he added. Ali (CNAQ) and Moses Dorairajah pionship league most captains agreed Both have been a supporting back- ex-Samoa centre Eliota Faumaono- the cause of death was unknown The media opportunity was also (Lions). The Hurricanes and Al Khor first place in the standings is out of bone to Rugby and in particular Sapolu said Pacific rugby had lost but quoted his father-in-law attended by Qatar Rugby Federation were represented by fitness and con- reach but second, third and fourth the Rugby Sevens League. I wish to one of its greats. saying he had been “sick for a (QRF) Senior Coordinator Samuel ditioning coaches Tim Newnham and are all up for grabs. The forum was also extend my gratitude to the QOC “Stunned! RIP Seru Rabeni,” he while”. Rico and seven delegates one from Andy Napier respectively. chaired by QRF General Secretary Ali who has been the foundation of our tweeted. “Absolutely hated every Rabeni, who was also a noted each of the Qatar Rugby Sevens par- The captains expressed satisfac- Al Malki who opened proceedings by existence. A big thanks to the Doha minute playing against you con- sevens player for Fiji, is survived by ticipating teams. tion with their teams participation in thanking QRF’s sponsors. Copthorne Hotel and our media part- stantly smashing and stepping me.” his wife and two children. They included captains IRakabu the first ever Qatar Rugby Sevens and “It is a tremendous feeling to be ners IEC,” he said. 36 WEDNESDAY 16 MARCH 2016 SPORT

BARCA, ARSENAL FACTFILE Arsenal face uphill task against First leg February 23 In London Arsenal (ENG) 0 Barcelona (ESP) 2 (Messi 71, 83-pen) Form: Arsenal’s hopes of a third ruthless Barcelona at Camp Nou straight FA Cup title were destroyed by Watford on Sunday as the Hor- nets stunned Arsene Wenger’s side 2-1 at the Emirates Stadium. Danny Welbeck’s late strike wasn’t enough Wenger’s side enters to save the Gunners as goals from second leg of last 16 Odion Ighalo and Adlene Guedioura left the north Londoners facing the stage today with a prospect of another season with- 2-0 deficit out any silverware. The Gunners have won just once in five outings since losing to Barcelona in the first leg, with successive defeats to Man- chester United and Swansea causing AFP severe damage to their Premier League title challenge. Barcelona warmed up for the return fixture in ominous fashion with a 6-0 BARCELONA: Arsenal manager demolition of Getafe in La Liga on Saturday, a result that kept them Arsene Wenger admitted his side eight points clear of Atletico Madrid face an almost impossible task when with nine games to play. Neymar they travel to face a red-hot Barce- scored twice with Lionel Messi also lona today looking to overturn a 2-0 on target, despite missing another first-leg deficit to reach the Champi- penalty, as Barca surged to a 12th ons League quarter-finals for the first straight league win. time in six years. As so often in the second half of Coaches Wenger’s 20-year reign, Arsenal will Barcelona - Luis Enrique (ESP) -- travel to the Camp Nou with a sense 45 yrs of what might have been. Arsenal - Arsene Wenger (FRA) -- They had their chances to lead at 66 yrs the Emirates three weeks ago before Barca’s brilliant forward triumvirate Leading scorers in all competitions: of Lionel Messi, Neymar and Luis Sua- Barcelona - Luis Suarez (42 goals) rez cut through them with an unerring Arsenal - Olivier Giroud (20 goals) ease they have made routine. Messi, Neymar and Suarez have Group stage performance: scored a combined 103 goals this sea- Barcelona - Winners of Group E son, Arsenal’s entire squad a mere 71. ahead of Roma Top of the list of Wenger’s detractors has been his inability or Arsenal - Second in Group F behind Barcelona’s Argentinian forward Lionel Messi (left), forward Neymar (centre) and Luis Suarez (right) take pictures with a mobile phone with Bayern Munich unwillingness to splash out on the children who have managed to gate-crash the training session at the Sports Center FC Barcelona Joan Gamper in Sant Joan Despi, near Barcelona top-class striker needed to turn Arse- European Cup/Champions on Monday, on the eve of the UEFA Champions League last sixteen second leg match against Arsenal. nal from perennial pretenders into League best performances winners. Barcelona - Winners in 1992, 2006, Yet, he tried to land Suarez whilst League goals, Liverpool agonisingly since. Sanchez won two major and David Villa have failed in 2009, 2011 and 2015 the Uruguayan was still at Liverpool just missed out on their first title in CHAMPIONS LEAGUE: trophies in three years at Barca, dovetailing perfectly with Messi. in 2013. 24 years. BARCA FAVOURITES TO coinciding with the Catalans only “Our relationship on and off the Arsenal - Runners-up 2006 ENTER LAST 16 In a tale of Arsenal’s penny-pinch At the same time Barca had just three-year drought in winning field is very good,” Suarez told La Previous meetings culture under Wenger, they infuri- suffered their first trophy-less sea- Champions League in the past Vanguardia. Barcelona 1 Arsenal 1 - 1999/2000 ated Liverpool by launching a bid one son in six years. decade. “We all know Leo is the best, Champions League group stage pound over Suarez’s reported £40m Suarez then bit Italian defender they questioned his character and His 47 goals in 141 games were a none of us try to beat him or even buyout clause. Giorgio Chiellini at the 2014 World didn’t know the severity of the ban,” respectable return, but Suarez has equal him.” Arsenal 2 Barcelona 4 - 1999/2000 “What do you think they’re Cup, the third time he had bitten Barca’s then sporting director Andoni already struck 67 in 84 appearances, Yet, on goal scoring terms at Champions League group stage smoking over there at Emirates?” an opponent in his career, sparking Zubizarreta told Marca. won a treble and has Barca on course least, Suarez has surpassed Messi Barcelona 2 Arsenal 1 - 2005/06 Liverpool’s American owner John W. widespread condemnation and a four- “I thought that was the ideal to repeat that feat this season. this season with 42 in 41 games to Champions League final Henry famously replied on Twitter. month ban. moment to accelerate the process “Suarez gives Barca the the Argentine’s 36 in 36. Arsenal 2 Barcelona 2 - 2009/10 Even more damming for Arsenal Yet, while others dithered, Barca of his signing.” Arsenal benefited in aggression that is so important in Stopping one is difficult, stopping Champions League quarter-finals was that Liverpool captain Steven pounced, eying exactly Suarez’s their own way from Suarez’s move the attacking third,” Atletico Madrid all three of the South American trio Gerrard managed to talk Suarez into aggression as the tonic to revitalise as they snapped up Alexis Sanchez boss Diego Simeone said after seeing has been an impossible task in the Barcelona 4 Arsenal 1 - 2009/10 staying for an extra season at Anfield the squad already blessed with the as Barca sold the Chilean to balance his impressive record against Barca past 18 months. Champions League quarter-finals by telling him he was “too good for talents of Messi and Neymar. the books. turned upside down since Suarez’s Arsenal could have had Suarez on Arsenal 2 Barcelona 1 - 2010/11 Arsenal” and that his move to Barce- “During the negotiation process Yet, by swapping Sanchez for arrival. their side. Instead, when they line-up Champions League last 16 lona would come. the incident with Chiellini happened Suarez, Barca again demonstrated Most importantly of all, Suarez today, they will likely be made to Barcelona 3 Arsenal 1 - 2010/11 Gerrard was proved right. and provoked a lot of doubts in clubs that they shop in a different market has managed to succeed where other suffer and wonder what could’ve Champions League last 16 Inspired by Suarez’s 31 Premier that wanted to sign him because to Arsenal and haven’t looked back great strikers like Zlatan Ibrahimovic have been once more. FA Cup: United face possible Everton showdown in semis Ranieri still in denial over title bid

AFP display and Ranieri said that he had not been surprised by their tenacity. AFP “I was sure it would be this kind of match,” said the Italian, who, like LEICESTER: Leicester City man- Benitez, counts Napoli, Valencia, ager Claudio Ranieri said he was still Chelsea and Inter Milan among his LONDON: Watford’s reward for refusing to look at the Premier League former clubs. knocking out FA Cup holders Arse- table despite his team re-establishing “Their players showed Rafa their nal is a semi-final date with Crystal a five-point lead by beating Newcas- attitude and the Newcastle players Palace, while Everton will take on tle United 1-0. are very good. I am sure that they will Manchester United or West Ham in Shinji Okazaki’s stunning 25th- be safe.” It was a fourth successive the other tie at Wembley. minute overhead bicycle kick gave loss for Newcastle, but Benitez under- After handing Arsenal their first Leicester a hard-earned 1-0 win at lined the “positives” from his side’s FA Cup defeat since February 2013 the King Power Stadium on Mon- battling display, which he identified with a surprise 2-1 victory in the day and left them needing 20 points as their “passion” and “commitment”. quarter-finals at the Emirates Sta- salvage a difficult campaign for from their final eight games to com- He now faces a pivotal pair of fix- dium, Monday’s semi-final draw their Dutch boss Louis van Gaal plete one of the most improbable title tures against fellow strugglers, with pitted Watford against fellow Pre- (pictured). triumphs in the history of European Sunday’s derby at home to Sunder- mier League side Palace. But they needed a late equal- football. land followed by a trip to Norwich The Hornets, bidding to reach the iser from Anthony Martial to rescue But while teams like Arsenal and City, and he urged the supporters to final for the first time since losing to a 1-1 draw against the Hammers at Manchester City continue to floun- throw their weight behind the team. Everton in the 1984 showpiece, won Old Trafford on Sunday after fall- der in their slipstream, Ranieri was “We know our next game against 2-1 at Palace in February, but lost at ing behind to Dimitri Payet’s brilliant insistent that neither he nor his play- Sunderland is a derby and it will be home to the Eagles in September. free-kick. ers are allowing themselves to think Leicester City manager Claudio Ranieri celebrates with Christian Fuchs important for everyone, but I have a Palace, who put aside their poor Everton, who haven’t won the FA about the title. after the win against Newcastle United in the Premier League at King feeling the fans are really good and league form to beat second tier Cup since beating United in the 1995 “I don’t look at the table. I look at Power Stadium in Leicester on Monday. they are the number 12 for the next Reading in the quarter-finals, haven’t final, last reached the final in 2009 the next match -- Crystal Palace,” he game,” said the former Liverpool made the final since 1990 and this when they defeated United on pen- told his post-match press conference. manager, who replaced the sacked is their first semi-final appearance alties in the last four before losing “It’s difficult. We want to enjoy, his all-round contribution. “I’m not better maybe against Aston Villa or Steve McClaren on Friday. for 21 years. to Chelsea. we want to continue. Of course our pleased now because he scored a goal West Bromwich, but we drew both “We have plenty of things to do The clash is a repeat of the 2013 West Ham’s previous FA Cup fans are dreaming, are so proud of -- I’m so pleased with Shinji because these matches,” he said. and they need to rest and work hard. I Championship play-off final at final victory came in 1980 and they us. We must continue.” he’s part of the team and he works so “We played well and we achieved like the people, the staff, the fans and Wembley, which Palace won with last reached the final in 2006 when He added: “Never we speak about hard every time,” he said. just one point. We played our match everyone is behind the club. a Kevin Phillips penalty. they lost to Liverpool on penalties. the title. Every time we speak about “He scored a goal tonight (Mon- (against Newcastle), a tough match, “Everything is positive, but now In the other semi-final, Everton, our performance, how we enjoy the day), but Shinji has made a fantastic very concentrated, and we won -- we have to give them what they want who handed Chelsea a 2-0 defeat in football and helping our team-mates. job during all the season. It was a three points. on the pitch.” the last eight on Saturday, await the SEMIS DRAW I’m very proud when I say everyone good goal, a fantastic goal.” “At this point of the season, the He added: “The players have to winner of a replay between troubled Crystal Palace vs Watford helps each other.” Leicester’s last three wins, against points are important, not how you play without anxiety, because then Manchester United and in-form West Everton vs Manchester United or Okazaki’s goal, a textbook over- Norwich City, Watford and Newcastle, play.” they will make more mistakes. Ham at Upton Park. West Ham head volley from Jamie Vardy’s have all come by a 1-0 scoreline and With new manager Rafael Beni- “They have to play with great United haven’t won the FA Cup knock-down, took the Japan strik- Ranieri was heartened by the gritty tez furiously orchestrating his charges commitment, like today, but they have since 2004 and lifting the trophy Both ties to be played at Wembley er’s tally to six goals for the campaign, attitude shown by his players. from the edge of his technical area, to use their brains and try and play on the weekend of April 23/24 this season would at least partially but Ranieri made a point of praising “I know very well we played Newcastle produced an improved good football.” SPORT WEDNESDAY 16 MARCH 2016 37

French PM Italy coach to opposes step down, Benzema’s opening up return Chelsea move

AFP AFP

PARIS: French Prime Minis- ROME: Italy coach Antonio Conte, ter Manuel Valls yesterday said who has been linked to Chelsea, Bayern Munich’s Real Madrid star Karim Benzema will give up his post after Euro should not be allowed to return to Spanish head coach 2016, the Italian Football Feder- the France team while he remains Pep Guardiola (left) ation said yesterday. at the centre of a sex-tape brib- talks with Bayern The 46-year-old former Juven- ery inquiry. Munich’s defender tus coach took over the national “I think that the conditions Philipp Lahm during team in August 2014 and secured have not yet been met for Karim the last team their qualification for the Euro- Benzema to come into the France training session pean Championship. team. He is still under investiga- one day before the Federation president Carlo tion,” Valls told French broadcaster Champions League Tavecchio told Italian media: RMC. last 16, second- “Antonio Conte has told me that Benzema, 28, is France’s leg football match at the end of the European cham- leading goalscorer, but has been against Juventus in pionship, his job will end. He feels excluded from national duty Munich, southern the need for the pitch, the every- since he was placed under inves- Germany, yesterday. day training, and this is something tigation over an attempt to bribe you can understand.” France team-mate Mathieu Val- The news fueled specula- buena for a sex-tape. Benzema has tion that Conte, who won three been accused of complicity in the Serie A titles with Juventus, will attempt. be appointed manager of English “For young people, a great Premier League side Chelsea fol- sportsman must be exemplary,” lowing the tournament in France the Prime Minister said, adding from June 10 to July 10. “(football) is our heritage, it’s not British and Italian media something that just interests ama- Bayern want no repeat of reports say that Chelsea have an teur sports fans, so we have to be accord with Conte, even adding careful, all acts and decisions have that he will take his long term their importance”. assistants Angelo Alessio and Mas- Benzema’s hopes of playing at simo Carrera with him to London. Euro 2016 received a huge boost Chelsea are having the worst after his bail conditions were season of Roman Abramovich’s eased last week. Juventus’ Turin fightback 13-year ownership. They sacked France coach Didier Des- Jose Mourinho in December and champs has made no secret of his interim boss Guus Hiddink has had desire to see Benzema return to BAYERN MUNICH, JUVENTUS FACTFILE BAYERN’S INJURY CRISIS to take the team from just above the national team set-up, after the Guardiola warns First leg, Feb 23 in Turin, Italy HAS EASED AHEAD OF the relegation zone to 10th place. striker was indefinitely suspended TODAY’S GAME Conte took over a demoral- Juventus (ITA) 2 (Dybala 63, Sturaro 76) Bayern Munich (GER) 2 by the French Football Federation German champions ised Azzurri side following their (Mueller 43, Robben 55) (FFF) in December. of more mistakes in humiliating first round exit from “On a sporting plan, I want to Form: percent possession and firing in 17 the World Cup in Brazil. He confi- have the best players. You’re not second leg against Bayern Munich tuned up for the return leg with a 5-0 rout of Werder Bremen in the shots on goal and Juventus’ analysts dently succeeded in his first task a striker at Real Madrid for five the top Italian club Bundesliga on Saturday. Thomas Mueller and Thiago Alcantara both netted twice will noted the way Mainz patiently of qualifying for the European years with (Jose) Mourinho, (Carlo) with Robert Lewandowski coming off the bench to claim his 24th league goal this took their chances. Championships. Ancelotti, (Rafael) Benitez and term as Pep Guardiola’s men stayed five points clear of Borussia Dortmund at the Bayern’s injury crisis in defence Italy advanced to the finals (Zinedine) Zidane for nothing. All top. Bayern were beaten 2-1 at home by Mainz though less than a fortnight ago, has eased. with ease by dominating their AFP the countries envy us,” Deschamps which will give Juventus reason to believe they can pull off a surprise in Germany. Guardiola is set to field Joshua group which included Bulgaria, told French daily L’Equipe recently. Juventus made it 18 wins in 19 in Italy as Paulo Dybala’s first-half strike powered the Kimmich and Medhi Benatia at Norway, Croatia, Azerbaidjan and On Friday, an appeals court Bianconeri to a 1-0 victory over Sassuolo on Friday and kept the Turin giants three centre-back, but he has the luxury Malta, with seven wins and three upheld an investigating magis- points clear of Napoli in Serie A. Massimiliano Allegri’s side also reached the final of problem of knowing which stars to draws. trate’s decision to lift restrictions BERLIN: Bayern Munich host Juven- the Coppa Italia earlier this month, but only after beating Inter on penalties having leave out with Germany’s World Cup Conte’s Italy defence, with a placed on Benzema that prevented tus today in the Champions League seen a 3-0 lead from the first leg wiped away in Milan. winner Mario Goetze now back from Juventus core of Gianluigi Buffon, him from coming into contract last 16 return-leg clash eager to cut Previous meetings a groin injury. Leonardo Bonucci and Andrea with Lyon midfielder Valbuena, out any mistakes and prevent a repeat Juventus 1 Bayern Munich 0 - 2004/05 Champions League group stage His forwards Robert Lewand- Barzagli, proved solid, the coach who was the target of the black- of the Italians’ first-leg fightback. Bayern Munich 0 Juventus 1 - 2004/05 Champions League group stage owski (34) and Thomas Mueller (27) has come under fire for his lack- mail attempt. Bayern host the Italian champi- have scored 61 goals between them lustre forward line that managed Bayern Munich 2 Juventus 1 - 2005/06 Champions League group stage The FFF said the decision to ons at the Allianz Arena looking to this season in all competition and just 16 goals in 10 qualifying lift the legal restrictions was “a seal their fifth consecutive quarter- Juventus 2 Bayern Munich 1 - 2005/06 Champions League group stage they contributed three goals in Satur- games. Three months before the first step”, but added that it would final appearance in the Champions Bayern Munich 0 Juventus 0 - 2009/10 Champions League group stage day’s 5-0 drubbing of Werder Bremen tournament gets underway, the wait to see how the investigation League. Juventus 1 Bayern Munich 4 - 2009/10 Champions League group stage in Germany’s top flight. team remains a work in progress. unfolded before deciding whether They were steaming towards the Bayern Munich 2 Juventus 0 - 2012/13 Champions League quarter-finals Their Spanish playmaker Thi- In France, the Italians have to recall Benzema. A final decision last eight when Thomas Mueller and ago Alcantara also netted twice in been drawn in Group E along with Juventus 0 Bayern Munich 2 - 2012/13 Champions League quarter-finals will be taken by FFF president Noel Arjen Robben gave them a two-goal an impressive display. Belgium, Sweden and the Repub- Le Graet. lead in Turin before Juventus pounced Coaches: Juventus’ last Champions League lic of Ireland. on mistakes in Munich’s ranks with Bayern Munich - Pep Guardiola (ESP) -- 45 yrs win in Munich was back in 2004, but Italy were beaten by world goals by Paulo Dybala and Stefano Juventus - Massimiliano Allegri (ITA) -- 48 yrs history favours the Italians. number one ranked team Belgium Sturaro. Leading scorers in all competitions Their record in two-legged ties in a friendly last November, dem- Juventus are in rich form, against German sides is 13 wins and onstrating the gap between Conte’s Bayern Munich - Robert Lewandowski (34 goals) unbeaten in their last 19 games, but just three defeats, while Bayern’s side and the top European teams. coach Massimiliano Allegri suffered a Juventus - Paulo Dybala (18 goals) overall record is won four and lost Conte has also clashed with set back on Monday when Italy mid- six times to opponents from Italy in Italian football chiefs. He had fielder Claudio Marchisio dropped out European competition. hoped to organise a training camp of training with a calf injury. Juventus to again exploit. chances again. “Bayern is vulnera- Guardiola is feeling the pressure in February and wanted the Italian Dybala is also out and Allegri was And ex-Bayern coach Ottmar ble on the break and Juventus will be to deliver silverware in his third and Cup final brought forward to allow already missing defenders Giorgio Hitzfeld says the Italians are more lurking and 100% ready to take their final season in Munich before taking international players involved to Chiellini and Martin Caceres, while than capable of pulling off an upset chances.” over at Manchester City next season. take holidays. former Bayern striker Mario Mand- in Munich. Mainz proved just how vulnera- The Spanish super coach has won Former Italy coaches Roberto zukic is nursing a knock. “After leading Juventus by 2-0, the ble Bayern are when they became the five titles in Munich, but is eager to Donadoni and Cesare Prandelli Both Bayern coach Pep Guardi- 2-2 is not an ideal result,” Hitzfeld told only side to win at the Allianz Arena sign off with the Champions League have both been named as possi- ola and captain Philipp Lahm have Munich-based newspaper TZ. this season with a 2-1 victory just over trophy which has so far eluded him ble replacements for Conte along warned the Germans can ill afford “They have build Juventus back a fortnight ago. after exiting the semi-finals for the with Claudio Ranieri, manager of Karim Benzema committing more mistakes for up again and they’ll believe in their Bayern lost despite enjoying 78 last two seasons running with Bayern. surprise EPL leaders Leicester. Giggs ready to take United hot seat, says Robson

Reuters the club’s Carrington training centre. at Pep Guardiola, he came through Liverpool on Thursday in the Europa “Ryan was a great player for this the ranks at Barcelona as a player and League last 16. club, he loves playing football the then as a young coach and then they Robson said both are still possible. United way, he’s done all his badges trusted him and he stepped up. He “I think he needs to win some- MANCHESTER: Ryan Giggs is ready and for me he’s in the right place at was tremendously successful,” Rob- thing, or at least get United into to become Manchester United’s next the right time.” son said. Europe, that’s the least we have to manager if Louis van Gaal is shown Former England skipper Robson, “It’s the same with Ryan. He look at,” Robson said. “Otherwise it’s the door a year early at the end of 59, was still at the heart of United’s knows what this club is all about and a huge blow to the club’s prestige. this season, said former club captain midfield when a teenaged Giggs broke the fans would be totally behind the “With Arsenal going out of the FA Bryan Robson yesterday. into the first team in 1991. The Welsh club if they made that decision and Cup, if I were manager of this club I Out of work former Chelsea man- winger went on to make a record 963 totally behind Ryan.” would look at that now and think this ager Jose Mourinho has been tipped appearances and claim 34 trophies. Asked if it was conceivable Van is really do-able, we can win this tro- to takeover at Old Trafford but Rob- He has been working alongside Gaal, who signed a three-year con- phy and we have to get the lads to son says United great Giggs, who has the much-travelled Van Gaal in what tract in May 2014, would see out his believe that,” added Robson refer- been assistant to Van Gaal, would be has been a tricky transition period final season at Old Trafford, Rob- ring to the competition where apart a perfect choice. for United following the retirement son said the Dutchman’s minimum from United, Everton, Crystal Palace, “The thing for me is that Van Gaal of Alex Ferguson, who had been in requirement would be to ensure Watford and West Ham United are the was always going to be a three-year charge for 26 years, in 2013. United secure a top-four finish in the clubs still in the running. contract with Ryan working under But Robson said despite a tough Premier League. “Winning the FA cup would be a him so that they could see whether baptism in the dugout, Giggs has the They face a replay at West Ham huge boost to some of the squad who Manchester United’s Manager Louis van Gaal (left) and Assistant he was ready to step in,” said Robson credentials to revive United. in the quarter-final of the FA Cup have never won a trophy with United, at the launch of United’s partner- “People say it’s too big a challenge, after Sunday’s 1-1 draw and must try it would give them great self-belief,” Manager Ryan Giggs during FA quarter-final match against West Ham ship with Gulf Oil International at too big a jump. But I don’t agree. Look and overhaul a 2-0 deficit against he added. United at Old Trafford last Saturday. 38 WEDNESDAY 16 MARCH 2016 SPORT British agency given drug testing role ahead of Rio Olympics

AFP drug testing procedures in Russia for the has been done. Global co-operation is a time that its own anti-doping agency, vital aspect of protecting clean sport and Worldwide effort under RUSADA, remains non-compliant with the developing a level playing field for all way to free sport from World Anti-Doping Agency code. athletes.” LONDON: UK Anti-Doping is to oversee “UK Anti-Doping is delighted to have There was a renewed focus on the use the worldwide effort to stamp out the use of performance-enhancing been asked by the World Anti-Doping of drugs in sport following Russian tennis performance-enhancing drugs in the run- drugs Agency to be the secretariat for the pre- star Maria Sharpova’s recent admission up to this year’s Olympic Games in Rio, it Rio Anti-Doping Taskforce,” said UKAD that she had taken the banned substance was announced on Monday. chief executive Nicole Sapstead. meldonium at this year’s Australian UKAD has been appointed as the sec- “This is an important step forward for Open. retariat for an International Olympic a damning report into mass doping global sport and the protection of clean Meldonium, which is intended to be Committee anti-doping taskforce which violations. athletes. It is an opportunity for interna- used in the treatment of ischaemia, or will seek to standardise testing procedures. Meanwhile five other countries have tional federations and national anti-doping poor blood flow, but which can improve Monday’s announcement came with now been placed on notice by the IAAF. organisations to collaborate to ensure pre- endurance, was added to the WADA list of Russia still banned by the IAAF, athletics’ This is the second time this month that Games testing programmes are targeted, banned substances on January 1. world governing body and on course to UKAD has been granted a role beyond its meaningful and effective. WADA said on Friday that 99 athletes be excluded from the Olympics following own borders after it was asked to oversee “It’s the first time something like this have since tested positive for meldonium. Belarus not Athletes and public are demanding Charl Schwartzel of South Africa plays a shot in doping on the 18th hole during the final round of the for answers, says WADA president Valspar Championship at Innisbrook Resort ‘risk zone’, Copperhead Course last Sunday in Palm Harbor, Florida. says official Reuters

AFP LAUSANNE: Global sport’s anti- Schwartzel and doping agency WADA says it MINSK: The Belarussian athletics needs more funding to help root Oosthuizen move federation on Monday denied the out cheats and wants sponsors country was at risk of being sus- and broadcasters to help foot pended after being named on an the bill. up the rankings IAAF monitoring list over its anti- WADA President Craig doping programme. Reedie said the agency’s basic AFP Belarus is one of five coun- annual budget was around 27 WORLD GOLF tries the International Association million dollars, less than some RANKINGS of Athletics Federations (IAAF) individual sportsmen earn in a PARIS: South Afri- said last week is in “critical care” year. ca’s Charl Schwartzel, 1. Jordan Spieth (USA) 11.2543 pts because of shortcomings in dop- “I think at the end of the WADA president Craig Reedie winner of the US PGA 2. Rory McIlroy (NIR) 9.6502 ing prevention. day most of the world thinks Valspar Championship 3. Jason Day (AUS) 9.4833 “I wouldn’t say that our coun- that clean sport would be a at the weekend, has 4. Bubba Watson (USA) 8.8795 try is in the risk zone,” TASS good idea and perhaps now we in one year than the WADA happened overnight and I moved up eleven spots 5. Rickie Fowler (USA) 8.0611 news agency quoted Alexan- could encourage them (spon- DOPING SCANDAL annual budget which I think is would prefer to get out in in the latest world golf 6. Adam Scott (AUS) 7.3884 der But-Gusaim, the head of the sors) to help bring it about,” he a reasonably interesting com- front; we could do that with rankings released on 7. Henrik Stenson (SWE) 7.0220 Belarussian athletics federation, told Reuters on the sidelines of parison,” he said, adding that more information we might Monday. 8. Justin Rose (ENG) 6.0996 as saying. “This concerns countries a WADA conference. Tennis was also hit last WADA was understaffed and get, inquiry and gathering Schwartzel remains 9. Dustin Johnson (USA) 5.9030 where doping prevention has not “I think we have to say week when five-times grand had an IT system that was 10 information.” just outside the top 20 10. Patrick Reed (USA) 4.9738 quite been deemed satisfactory.” to very successful commer- slam champion Maria Shara- years out of date. The world athletics govern- in 21st position with 11. Danny Willett (ENG) 4.7145 IAAF President Sebastian cial companies, for example pova revealed that she had WADA director general ing body (IAAF) said on Friday countryman Louis Coe said that Belarus, as well as the pharmaceutical compa- tested positive for the banned David Howman said a bigger that Russia still had “significant Oosthuizen, seventh in 12. Branden Grace (RSA) 4.6792 Ukraine and Kenya, had to ensure nies with whom we work very substance meldonium. budget would help the organ- work to do” before it could be the Miami tournament, 13. Sergio Garcia (ESP) 4.5830 their anti-doping programmes closely, there is a real interest “The difficulty comes from isation become more proactive. reinstated to the sport, which advancing two places 14. Hideki Matsuyama (JPN) 4.4530 are “significantly strengthened” here for you and for us.” the never-ending list of things “You might look at broad- brought an angry reaction from to 16th. 15. Jim Furyk (USA) 4.2473 before the end of the year. The Athletics, the showpiece we have to do,” Reedie said. casting and say can we get 0.2 the country’s sports minister American Jordan 16. Louis Osthuizen (RSA) 4.1116 other two countries on the IAAF sport of the Olympic Games, “It’s become quite appar- percent of the annual broadcast Vitaly Mutko. Spieth leads the rank- 17. Brandt Snedeker (USA) 4.0617 list, Ethiopia and Morocco, must was rocked last year when ent that as greater pressures fees they’re giving out to sport,” WADA said, however, that ings ahead of Northern 18. Phil Mickelson (USA) 3.9663 “implement as a matter of urgency Russia was suspended from the appear, we need to find other he told Reuters. it had a working relationship Ireland’s Rory McIlroy 19. Brooks Koepka (USA) 3.9358 a robust and adequate national sport after a WADA investiga- sources of revenue. “Most of my life has with Mutko who said Russia and Australia’s Jason 20. Zach Johnson (USA) 3.9246 testing programme, both in and tion revealed a state-sponsored “It’s possible to get evidence involved waking up in the had already done enough to Day with the top 15 21. Carl Schwartzel (RSA) 3.8834 out of competition,” Coe said. doping programme. that one athlete can earn more morning and reacting to what be allowed back. remaining unchanged.

Evert stunned by Sharapova No-one to match news, not by doping in tennis Tiger at his peak, says Harrington Reuters

AFP was pretty good as well,” he added. INDIAN WELLS: Chris Evert (pic- “The field has also tured) said on Monday she was tightened up by four or stunned to hear that Maria Shara- NEW DELHI: Three-time five shots since I started. pova failed a doping test, but not by major champion Padraig The players have obvi- the fact that there is doping in ten- Harrington said yesterday ously got better but the nis, claiming that she knew players golf had become a much standard has got much who doped during her career. more open contest since better.” Woods won the Evert, an 18-times grand slam the end of Tiger Woods’ last of his 14 major titles champion who retired in 1989, said dominance, but none of back in 2008 and has not the use of performance-enhancing the current top players played competitive golf drugs in tennis went on during her could match Woods at since last August follow- In this August 29, 2015 file photo, USA’s Ashton Eaton poses next to a scoreboard career - which was before the sport his best. ing back surgery. adopted current anti-doping rules - showing his new world record points total after finishing the 1500m and winning the The Irishman, who Harrington, 44, a and that it likely goes on in all sports. January 1. Evert feels the length of men’s decathlon athletics event during the IAAF World Championships in Beijing. won both the British two-time British Open “You’d have to have your head in Sharapova’s ban will hinge on her Open (twice) and US and former US PGA win- the sand if you didn’t at least assume medical records and that the former PGA when Woods was at ner, has dropped down that every professional sport might Russian world number one may only the height of his powers, the rankings chart but still have some sort of performing- deserve to be barred for the rest of Eaton, Cunningham highlight said the overall standard believes he can compete enhancing drugs being used,” Evert the year. had improved in the last with the new crop of stars told a conference call from Indian “This drug is used for angina and US world indoors team decade but there was no on a good day. Wells, where she will do TV com- severe heart issues. There’s always player who stood out from “It’s hard to live up mentary for ESPN at the BNP Paribas suspicion when you hear what the the crowd. to those standards of Open. drug is used for. That’s why her Reuters heptathlon title in the March championships event also “I think there is a 2007-08. That was truly “Honestly, in every professional defence needs to show medical 17-20 championships in Port- will be representing the greater depth of players a peak,” said Harrington, sport I think this goes on to a certain records, and (her) dosage. land, Oregon. United States in the tune-up nowadays. In my days we who is in the capital for the extent. In tennis it doesn’t worry me “If it does come out cleanly, I Cunningham, the 18-year- for August’s Rio Olympics. pretty much had a Tiger Hero Indian Open which as much. This went on when I was would say banning her for the rest INDIANAPOLIS: Heptathlon old daughter of former They include men’s long and if he was playing his begins tomorrow. “I am in playing.” of year would be enough.” world record holder Ashton National Football League jumper Marquis Dendy and best then he was close to good form. I do feel like I “I know players on the wom- Evert’s ESPN colleague Patrick Eaton and talented teenage quarterback Randall Cun- Barbara Pierre (60 metres co- impossible to beat,” Har- am playing well and I am en’s tour who were using -- who McEnroe said players always look high jumper Vashti Cunning- ningham, soared to a world leader), Ajee Wilson (800m), rington told reporters in looking forward to the were using performance-enhanc- for an advantage. ham headline a 58-member junior record 1.99 metres, the Brianna Rollins (60m hurdles) New Delhi. next peak in my career,” ing drugs and we didn’t even have “Players of course are going to US team for this week’s IAAF best jump of 2016, in winning and Michelle Carter (shot put). “Nowadays we prob- he added. drug testing.” look to get an edge, whether in how world Indoor Championships, the US championship in Port- Sandi Morris, who upset ably got six players who Harrington, who will Sharapova faces up to a four- they train, or in how they eat and USA Track and Field said on land on Saturday. Suhr in the US Champion- are playing their best. We be joined by a host of top year ban by the International Tennis how they recover,” the former US Monday. World indoor pole vault ships, is also on the team as actually wouldn’t know players in the event co- Federation for testing positive for David Cup captain said. Eaton, who also holds record holder Jenn Suhr are Olympic long jump gold who was going to win. But sanctioned by the Asian meldonium in January, a drug she “Do I think it’s a major problem the outdoor decathlon world and five other athletes who medallist Brittney Reese and none of them is quite as and European Tour, is had taken for 10 years due to health in tennis? No, I don’t. I think the test- record, will be going for have the best marks in the reigning world indoor 60m good as Tiger when fully keen to make his presence problems and which was banned on ing is very tough in tennis.” his third consecutive world world this season in their hurdles champion Nia Ali. in form. Tiger’s ‘B’ game felt at the Delhi Golf Club. SPORT WEDNESDAY 16 MARCH 2016 39

NFL admits link to brain disease CTE

AFP CTE had been established. Representative Jan Schakowsky of Illinois was critical of Berger’s comments, saying the league was WASHINGTON: The NFL’s top “peddling a false sense of security” health executive on Monday became in downplaying the dangers of head the first senior league official to trauma in football. acknowledge a link between foot- “Football is a high-risk sport ball-related head trauma and the because of the routine hits, not just brain disease chronic traumatic diagnosable concussions,” Scha- encephalopathy. kowsky said. Jeff Miller, the NFL’s vice pres- “What the American pub- ident of health and safety, was lic needs now is honesty about pressed at a roundtable organ- the health risks and clearly more ized by the Energy and Commerce research.” Committee of the US House of Rep- While the league has previously resentatives on whether there acknowledged that head trauma, was indeed a link between the particularly concussion, poses a risk hard-hitting gridiron game and neu- to the long-term health of players, rodegenerative diseases such as CTE. NFL commissioner Roger Goodell “The answer to that question is and other top officials haven’t taken certainly yes,” Miller said. definitive public stands on the mat- However, Miller added it was ter. In giving his answers, Miller cited unclear how that would affect the the work of Boston University neu- future of America’s most popular ropathologist Ann McKee. sport. McKee told committee members “There is a number of questions there is no doubt in her mind the ill- that comes with that,” Miller said. ness, which can only be detected “I think the broader point, and after death, is linked to playing the one that your question gets to, football. is what that necessarily means, and “I unequivocally think there’s a where do we go from here with that link between playing football and Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors goes up for a shot against Dante Cunningham information.” CTE,” she said. (top left) of the New Orleans Pelicans at Oracle Arena on Monday in Oakland, California. In the buildup to Super Bowl “We’ve seen it in 90 out of 94 50 this year, neurosurgeon Mitch NFL players whose brains we’ve Berger, who leads the NFL’s sub- examined, we’ve found it in 45 out committee on long-term brain injury, of 55 college players and six out of Warriors celebrate Curry’s said no link between football and 26 high school players.” Bryant banned for one year birthday with 60th win due to substance abuse Agencies Meanwhile, the Denver Broncos third-quarter surge with a rare three- NBA RESULTS 130-81. The Rockets connected on are interested in signing free agent Birthday boy stars pointer -- the third of his career and 16 of 33 attempts from long range. quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick, but his first since March 8, 2013 - fol- Dallas 107 Charlotte 96 Ariza finished with 16 points, one of only if they can get him at the right as Warriors secure lowed by a blocked shot at the other Miami 124 Denver 119 nine Rockets players to score in dou- PITTSBURGH: Pittsburgh Steelers price. back-to-back Pacific end. His efforts ignited a 13-0 scor- Chicago 109 Toronto 107 ble figures in the wire-to-wire win. wide receiver Martavis Bryant on According to an ESPN report, Division titles since ing run that put the Warriors well on Houston 130 Memphis 81 The last time Houston had nine Monday was suspended for a year by Denver is unwilling to pay the salary their way to a 49th straight regular- Oklahoma City 128 Portland 94 scorers in double figures was in 1993. the NFL for a violation of the league’s Fitzpatrick is seeking as the Broncos 1975-1976 season victory at home in Oakland, In Toronto, the Raptors once substance abuse policy. search for their next starting quar- California, a streak dating back to Washington 124 Detroit 81 again brought out the best in Chicago Bryant will not appeal the sus- terback following the retirement of last season. Phoenix 107 Minnesota 104 reserve forward Doug McDermott, pension, which begins immediately. Peyton Manning and Brock Osweil- The Warriors secured the Pacific Golden State 125 New Orleans 107 who scored a team-high 29 points in His agent had said on Saturday that er’s decision to sign with the Houston AFP Division title on their day off on Utah 94 Cleveland 85 the Bulls’ 109-107 victory. Bryant had planned to appeal. Texans last week. Sunday thanks to the Los Angeles The Bulls led by as many as 13 He was scheduled to make On Friday, the Broncos acquired Clippers’ loss to Cleveland. They have of an alley-oop dunk from James. points early in the fourth quarter $600,000 this season. veteran quarterback Mark Sanchez won back-to-back division titles for But Utah battled back as Mack but the Raptors, who had won 15 of Bryant was suspended for the from the Philadelphia Eagles, who LOS ANGELES: Golden State star the first time since 1975 and 1976. drained a three-pointer and French their previous 16 home games, twice first four games of the 2015 regu- will receive a conditional late-round Stephen Curry had plenty to celebrate “It’s a major accomplishment,” centre Rudy Gobert converted a cut the deficit to one in the final 20 lar season due to violations of the pick in the 2017 draft. on Monday, pouring in a game-high coach Steve Kerr said. three-point play to key a 13-2 run seconds. same policy. Fitzpatrick, 33, threw for 3,905 27 points on his 28th birthday as the The Utah Jazz kept up their push that put the Jazz up 19-15. Enes Kanter scored 26 points to The former fourth-round draft yards with 31 touchdowns and 15 Warriors stayed perfect at home this for an NBA playoff berth with a 94-85 Cleveland used a 14-3 run to take lead the Oklahoma City Thunder to a pick out of Clemson is report- interceptions in 2015, his first sea- season with a 125-107 victory over victory over LeBron James and the a slim lead late in the third and they 128-94 victory over the Portland Trail edly fighting depression and will son with the New York Jets. The Jets the New Orleans Pelicans. Eastern Conference-leading Cleve- went into the final quarter with the Blazers, avenging a January defeat. enter rehab. The Washington Post have been in a stalemate to bring The Warriors improved to 60-6 - land Cavaliers. Rodney Hood scored score tied at 66-66. Trey Lyles scored It was the first time since Janu- reported that Bryant missed sev- back Fitzpatrick. becoming the fastest team in league 28 points and Shelvin Mack added 16 10 of his 12 points in the fourth quar- ary 4 that a player other than Kevin eral drug tests, which counts the The Los Angeles Rams re-signed history to reach 60 wins and the oints, 10 assists and seven rebounds ter for Utah -- before he was ejected Durant or Russell Westbrook led the same as failed tests and had a diluted defensive end Eugene Sims to a first since the 2007-09 Boston Celt- to lead the Jazz, who were without for a flagrant foul against Channing Thunder in scoring. specimen that is also the same as a three-year contract. ics to record 60 wins in back-to-back leading scorer Gordon Hayward who Frye with less than four minutes to Oklahoma City’s stars did their failed test along with a failed test for The deal is worth a reported $10 campaigns. missed the contest with plantar fasci- play. Frye was also tossed after retal- part, however, with Westbrook marijuana. million and includes $3.75 million in With 16 games remaining, they itis. James scored 23 points and Kyrie iating with a head-butt to earn his posting his 12th triple-double of the One of his agents, Brian Fettner, guarantees. continue to chase the record of 72 Irving added 15 and Kevin Love 12 for second technical. season with 17 points, 16 assists and confirmed the ban stems from mul- Elsewhere, former Mississippi wins set by the 1995-96 Chicago Bulls. the Cavaliers, who had won three Trevor Ariza and Patrick Beverly 10 rebounds -- all with no turnovers. tiple missed drug tests. State quarterback Dak Prescott was Curry was feted with songs and straight coming into the game. set the tone with six three-pointers Durant added 20 points as seven Bryant will be eligible to apply arrested early Saturday morning chants to celebrate his birthday. Cleveland looked primed to end between them in the first quarter as Thunder players scored in double fig- for reinstatement by the league no and charged with driving under the But it was Australian big man their road trip on a high note when the Houston Rockets thrashed the ures and Oklahoma City posted their sooner than 60 days before anniver- influence, according to the Starkville Andrew Bogue who sparked a the raced to an 11-4 four lead courtesy short-handed Memphis Grizzlies largest margin of victory this season. sary of his suspension. (Miss.) Police Department. Clutterbuck’s late goal powers Islanders to home victory

Agencies 20-11-3 on the road and earned at least Tyler Myers had a goal and assist for one point for the fifth time in the past six Winnipeg (29-35-5). Alex Burmistrov and games. Mark Scheifele also scored while Mathieu Predators 3, Oilers 2 Perreault had two assists for the Jets, who BROOKLYN: Cal Clutterbuck’s goal with James Neal put the Nashville Predators have won two straight games but are 2-4-1 1:38 left in the third period capped a stun- on his back Monday night. in their last seven road games. ning late comeback by the New York The Predators left winger’s hat trick pro- Ducks 7, Devils 1 Islanders, who scored three goals in the pelled the Preds to a 3-2 victory over the Jakob Silfverberg had three goals and final 7:10 on Monday night to beat the Flor- Edmonton Oilers. Neal’s third goal, a wicked an assist, leading the Anaheim Ducks to a ida Panthers 3-2 at Barclays Center. wrist shot over the shoulder of Oilers goalie 7-1 rout of the New Jersey Devils on Mon- The Islanders, who were limited to just 11 Laurent Brossoit at 4:17 of the third period, day night at the Honda Centre. shots in the first two periods, tied the game broke a 2-2 tie. Silfverberg accomplished the first hat during a dramatic 81-second span late in Flames 7, Blues 4 trick and the first four-point game of his the third in which Kyle Okposo fired a shot Michael Frolik scored three goals and career. Linemates Ryan Kesler and Andrew past goalie Roberto Luongo and Josh Bailey the Calgary Flames ended a St. Louis Blues Cogliano each contributed a goal and two tucked a redirected shot into the open right winning streak at six games with a 7-4 vic- assists. corner of the net. tory on Monday. Kings 5, Blackhawks 0 It was the first win for Calgary (29-35-5) NHL RESULTS Goaltender Jonathan Quick stopped all against St. Louis (41-21-9) in seven contests 32 shots he faced, and the Los Angeles Kings and prevented their visitors from taking over NY Islanders 3 Florida 2 cruised to a 5-0 win over the Chicago Black- top spot in the Western Conference’s Cen- Los Angeles 5 Chicago 0 hawks on Monday night. tral Division. Calgary 7 St Louis 4 Kris Versteeg, Milan Lucic and Vincent Jets 5, Canucks 2 Nashville 3 Edmonton 2 Nikolay Kulemin of the New York Islanders celebrates the game winning goal by Cal Lecavalier were among five players to score Marko Dano scored twice and added an Winnipeg 5 Vancouver 2 Clutterbuck against Roberto Luongo (centre) of the Florida Panthers at the Barclays for the Kings. assist as the Winnipeg Jets defeated the Van- Anaheim 7 New Jersey 1 Centeron Monday in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. The Islanders won 3-2. Los Angeles (41-22-5) improved to couver Canucks 5-2 Monday night. 40 WEDNESDAY 16 MARCH 2016

Al Arabi bank on Jasimi’s fitness

The Peninsula medical team asses the injury ahead of the Friday evening match at Al Ahli Stadium. Al Arabi also began preparations DOHA: Qatar Stars league has ahead of their key clash of the week. reached its 23rd week and Al Arabi The remainder of the squad trained has confirmed that midfielder Ali under the watchful eye of Arabi head Jasimi is a doubt for their upcom- coach Gianfranco Zola. ing match against local rivals Al Ahli. Al Arabi currently occupying Jasimi suffered a pain in the knee the fifth place in the Qatar Stars during a training session with the League rankings with 34 points in side on Monday evening. The Arabi their possession. Al Harazi returns to strengthen Khalid Al Boloushi. The 18-year old volleyball player dreams of continuing to play and represent Qatar on an international stage in the future. RIGHT: Fencers with officials of Qatar Fencing Federation and Schools Olympic Programme. Al Sailiya in Friday’s game

The Peninsula receiving his fourth yellow card of the season. Boloushi dreams big with Al Harazi has been a mainstay in Sailiya this season, and will be a DOHA: Qatar Stars League side Al welcome addition for the team who Sailiya have welcomed back mid- goes into their Friday evening clash fielder Abdurahman Al Harazi to the against Qatar SC at Al Ahli stadium. side ahead of their round 23 clash Sailiya began their preparations Schools Olympic Programme against Qatar SC who are under the for Qatar SC on Monday evening, threat of being relegated. with a light training session under Al Sailiya missed the serv- the watchful eye of head coach ices of the Qatari international Sami Trabelsi. midfielder when they lost to Al The Peregrines currently sit in SOP helping Gharafa 4-0 last week after picking seventh place in the QSL standings, up a one match suspension after with four games to play. promising athletes to reach greater heights FIFA cancels Kuwait qualifiers

The Peninsula Reuters international soccer in October because of government interfer- ence in the running of its Football DOHA: An 18-year old lad from Association. Doha, Khalid Al Boloushi dreams big ZURICH: FIFA has cancelled Their qualifier against Myan- while aiming to bring honour to Qatar Kuwait’s Asian World Cup qualify- mar in November was cancelled and he is already on his way to make ing matches against Laos and South and Myanmar were awarded a 3-0 those dreams come true. Korea this month, world soccer’s rul- win. Kuwait are second in quali- He has played volleyball since he ing body said on Monday. fying Group G, eight points behind Fencers in action. Fencing is one of the sports SOP has focussed on, among 12 other sports such tennis, was 10 years old and joined the old- Kuwait was banned from South Korea. est sports club in Qatar, Al Ahli. Now a shooting, athletics, Basketball etc. student in his final year of high school at the Tariq bin Zayed School and Games was successfully hosted in Head of PR at the Qatar Olympic ultimate dream is to join the Qatari already a member of the youth and Doha in 2006. Since then, partici- Committee and Executive Director of National Volleyball team and rep- junior teams, he dreams of continuing pation has steadily grown and the the SOP Mohamed Al Fadala knows resent my country – it would be an Mane red card rescinded after to play the sport he loves and of one program now includes more than that the SOP is a key part of Qatar’s honor for me.” day, representing his home nation of 29,000 students from 500 schools vision to help instill culture of active Qatar’s talent development Qatar on an international stage. across Qatar. Maersk Oil Qatar has and healthy living across the nation. infrastructure, of which the SOP is Southampton’s appeal A key part of the youngsters been the pillar of strength since 2013, “The Schools Olympic Program serves an integral part, has seen numer- rise through the ranks has been the sponsoring the programme and has a unique and essential purpose of both ous Qatari athletes ascend to the Schools Olympic Programme (SOP). supported the development of the SOP educating our youth about sport and international stage. These include Agencies referee or maybe the linesman,” said Al Boloushi has taken part in the pro- and its various activities over the years ingraining in them a culture of fit- gravity-defying high-jumper Mutaz Saints boss Ronald Koeman after the gram for the last two years. in numerous ways. ness and health, as well as identifying Barshim, as well as two-time Junior match. “I joined the Schools Olympic Pro- Sport has had a transformative gifted student athletes that can go on World Champion in the hammer throw “Sadio is trying to put his head to gramme two years ago when I moved effect on Al-Boloushi’s life: “I was to represent Qatar on an regional and Ashraf El Seify. SOUTHAMPTON: Sadio Mane’s red the ball. Even Pieters told me after- to the Tariq bin Zayed School. My new always an active child but never par- international level,” he said. Since its inception in 2007, the SOP card for serious foul play in South- wards there was nothing,” he added. school placed great importance on ticularly healthy,” he said. “Once I Al Boloushi is just one of a number has seen thousands of students partic- ampton’s Premier League game Southampton appealed against the sport and how useful it is as a tool started playing volleyball seriously I of student athletes who hope to go pro- ipate in 12 sports that include tennis, against Stoke City on Saturday has decision and an independent com- to develop students both in terms of could see that my body was changing fessional. Commenting on his sporting shooting, athletics and many others. been overturned, the Football Asso- mission upheld the challenge, the FA athleticism and personally as well. It for the better – I became much health- future he said: “The SOP and Al Ahli The SOP is often the first ever com- ciation said yesterday. said on its website. really builds character,” he said. ier. We practice anywhere between have given me a huge head start in my petitive tournament in which children Referee Lee Mason dismissed the The Senegal striker will not The SOP is a multisport com- once to three times a week depending sporting career. Thanks to the SOP, participate, providing them with valu- forward in added time following an now have to serve any suspension petition among schools in Qatar for on a variety of factors, so that really I’ve been exposed to athletes of dif- able exposure and experience, as well aerial challenge with Erik Pieters. and is available for Southampton’s students aged 5 to 18 years that was builds up your stamina and cardio- ferent skill levels and I think it’s safe as promoting sport as a basic compo- “The red card is a big mistake of next match, at home to Liverpool founded in 2007 after the 15th Asian vascular health.” to say that we all benefit from this. My nent of a healthy and active lifestyle. the referee or maybe of the fourth on Sunday.

Qatar International Arabian Horse Show

Saleh Ganim Shaheen Al Ganim presenting the Deenara Al Waab trophy to gold medallist Junior Filly’s representative. BELOW: Representatives of Farhoud Al Shaqab, gold medallist in the senior Stallion category, receiving the shied from Sheikh Nawaf bin Nasser Al Thani.

Fahaa Al Swaiqat presenting the winner’s shield to the class 12 stallion (11 years) Safir Al Rayyan’s representative at the Qatar International Arabian Horse Show which was held at the Al Shaqab Arena. RIGHT: Deenara Al Waab trophy winner Junior Filly.