ISO 9001:2008 CERTIFIED NEWSPAPER

Home | 3 Business | 17 Sport | 25

Citizens have come Qatar Islamic Bank Hashim Amla and Faf du out against the poor (QIB) has announced Plessis hit centuries, as performance of call centres the opening of its new South Africa showcase at government hospitals headquarters in the their prowess with a 201- and primary health centres. United Kingdom. run rout of Ireland.

WEDNESDAY 4 MARCH 2015 • 13 Jumada I 1436 • Volume 19 Number 6359 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com [email protected] | [email protected] Editorial: 4455 7741 | Advertising: 4455 7837 / 4455 7780 CMC election: GCC states agree on joint Sports Day

DOHA: The GCC countries have agreed to initiate a com- bined Sports Day across the 42 candidates region, it emerged yesterday. Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC) Secretary-General Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman Al Thani announced this during file papers a press conference in the pres- ence of GCC Assistant Secretary General Abdullah bin Juma Al Nominations to close on March 11 Shibli and GCC Environment Supreme Council Chairman Dr DOHA: Forty-two citizens The candidate should file the Adel Al Zayani. The proposal including a woman filed their nomination at the respective con- for a combined Sports Day was nominations for the forthcom- stituency by filling in a form and floated by QOC, it was confirmed ing Central Municipal Council presenting the ID and other sup- yesterday. (CMC) elections on the first day portive documents. The nominee According to QOC, the proposal of registration. will receive a registration slip has been initiated for the promo- Nomination of candidates in when the person hands over the tion of sports and healthy lifestyle the 29 constituencies started papers to the supervising com- among the millions of young kids yesterday. Elections to the fifth mittee. The candidate should have across the region. It is accepted session of CMC are scheduled to permanent residency status in by the presidents and heads be held in May. The Muaither the constituency concerned. of the GCC National Olympic constituency received the high- The candidate must not have Committees (NOCs) yesterday. Qatar Olympic Committee Secretary-General Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman Al Thani (third right), with other est number of nominations –five- been involved in any crimes. The GCC Sports Day will GCC National Olympic Committee officials during a two-day meeting in Doha yesterday. followed by Bu Sidra where four The person must be literate and be celebrated on the second citizens applied. The remaining should know reading and writing. Saturday of February every year. constituencies saw two to three He/she must be competent and It may be recalled that on hosted. The NOC representa- witnessed the large-scale mass implement it at the regional level. nominations, Al Sharq reports. honest and should not be a mem- every Tuesday in February the tives of the Gulf countries were participation. Encouraged by the Continued on page 6 The first woman nominee was ber of the police or armed forces. Qatar National Sport Day is present in Qatar last month and success, the officials decided to THE PENINSULA in the Mamoura constituency. Col Abdul Rahman Majid Seven constituencies didn’t receive Al Sulaiti, a member of the any nomination on the first day. Supervising committee said, the Jassim Al Malki, CMC’s incum- preliminary list of candidates will bent vice chairman and chairman be announced on March 17. The of its services public facilities com- committee will receive complaints QPMC to buy quarries to meet demand mittee filed his nomination in Al and grievances from the public Markhiya constituency. regarding the candidates from BY SATISH KANADY told The Peninsula yesterday. creating an efficient water truck-loads per day. Nomination will continue for March 17 to March 25. The final Sea logistic supply chain is transportation system for QPMC also focus on provid- one week to close on March 11. list will be announced on April 8. DOHA: Qatar Primary another key issue for us. With goods will take the pressure ing efficient port service at the Aspiring candidates may file their Col Abdullah Khalifa Al Materials Company (QPMC), the demand picking up, the sup- off the roads to some degrees, Gabbro berths and develop them nominations from 4pm to 7pm Mufatah, head of the media com- the country’s leading provider ply chain is likely to experience he added. for handling larger import vol- throughout the week, except on mittee urged the competent citi- of primary construction mate- heavy pressure. With the demand picking up, umes of materials. Friday and Saturday, the super- zens to nominate themselves for rials or aggregate, is looking to Currently, there are few com- the level of aggregate prices is also Earlier in the day, address- vising committee for the elections the elections. He said the election acquire quarries in UAE and panies which own barges to going up. The freight on board ing the 18th Gulf Engineering at the Ministry of Interior said campaign will start after announc- Oman to meet growing demand ferry aggregates. We are look- (FOB) price of aggregates has Forum, Navjot said:“We aim to yesterday. The ministry said the ing the final candidates list and will for construction materials. ing to buy something 12 to 15 jumped from QR24 per tonne to deliver the capability to design, nominees should comply with the continue until the date of voting. The company is also set to own barges and tugs soon. QPMC is QR33 per tonne in a year. QPMC develop and operate jetties at terms and conditions mentioned in The election date will be announced over a dozen barges and tugs to committed to delivering com- needs to intervene to stabilise the developers’ request for govern- the election law. through an Emiri decree. To start ensure a smooth supply chain, prehensive solutions for the market. We are creating a stra- ment projects. We also store a election campaign, the candidates foreseeing a possible pressure transport, storage and delivery tegic stockpile of aggregates. Our strategic stockpile of aggregates are required to take official permis- on aggregate distribution going of key primary materials in the vision is not limited to World Cup for the government in Mesaieed INSIDE sion from the media committee and forward. country, he said. 20222, but beyond that. and deliver washed sand which the public relations department “Qatar‘s long-term demand for “Material availability, consist- QPMC produces washed will regulate the market for dune Page 9 of the Ministry of Interior. Once aggregate is projected to 30 mil- ent logical pricing and efficient sand and regulates sale of dune sand in Qatar”. Emir’s US visit should the permission is granted, they lion tonnes per year. The demand supply chain management is the sand in Qatar and this is avail- “QPMC meets the country’s should get another approval from for primary materials is set to key to the solution. This can only able for sale in the local market. largest requirements for washed silence Qatar’s critics the municipality in which their pick up in the coming years. We be achieved through creating Currently, QPMC plant provides sand and we seek to increase By Dr Mohammed constituency is located to practice need to make sure the supply state owned assets across the sup- 1000 tonnes of washed sand per our stockpile of sand and aggre- Saleh Al Misfer different forms of campaigning. chain is not hit. We are in the ply chain for about 40 percent of hour with an annual production gate. We stand for quality, reli- The supervising committee process of acquiring both gab- the countries’ long term consist- and sales capacity of 6/0 million ability and efficiency “, its Workers, real estate has started distributing voters bro and limestone quarries in ent needs of primary materials.” tonnes along with strategic stock Chief Executive Officer, Eisa Al firms fleecing citizens ID cards by post. UAE and Oman”, Navjot Singh, An efficient use of the sea of 1.0 million and unlimited supply Hammadi said. By Moza Abdel Aziz THE PENINSULA QPMC Director of Operations around Qatar peninsula and capacity of sand dune with 1,200 THE PENINSULA Alishaq Obama snubs Netanyahu speech New Yorkers spend 60pc on rent NEW YORK: Rent will gobble up nearly 60 percent of New Yorkers’ income in 2015 with the median cost of an apartment to rise to WASHINGTON: US President $2,700 a month, a real-estate website said. Barack Obama said there was Rent prices in the city grew at nearly twice the pace of income “nothing new” in Benjamin between 2000 and 2013, estimated StreetEasy, meaning that rent has Netanyahu’s controversial taken up an increasingly larger share of New Yorkers’ incomes. speech to Congress yester- The website estimated that the median asking rent in New York day, insisting the Israeli Prime is expected to reach $2,700 in 2015, amounting to a staggering 58.4 Minister did not offer a better percent of median income in the city. option than negotiations. Brooklyn was the borough with the greatest rent burden and where a Netanyahu “did not offer any typical new renter will spend 60 percent of their income on rent in 2015. viable alternatives,” Obama said That was followed by 52 percent in the Bronx, 49 percent in speaking from the Oval Office. Manhattan, 41 percent in Queens and 30 percent on Staten Island, Netanyahu earlier, before an the website said. impassioned joint meeting of In some neighborhoods the rent-to-income ratio is predicted to be Congress, pilloried talks with even higher: a staggering 107 percent in Manhattan’s Chinatown with Iran, which if successful would be a median rent of $2,485 and 86 percent in Williamsburg, the uber cool a key plank of Obama’s foreign part of Brooklyn with spectacular views across the river to Manhattan. policy legacy. Receiving a warm welcome from Obama’s Republican foes, Netanyahu insisted the deal US not moving embassy to Aden “doesn’t block Iran’s path to the bomb. It paves Iran’s path to the MONTREUX, SWITZERLAND: The United States is not plan- bomb.” An anti-Netanyahu rally near the Israeli Consulate in New York yesterday. ning to follow its Gulf partners and move its embassy in Yemen Obama has refused to meet to the southern city of Aden, a top State Department official said Netanyahu during his visit to the how to prevent Iran from obtain- from obtaining nuclear weapon.” Some 50 members of Obama’s yesterday. Washington closed its mission in the capital Sana’a late US capital and said he did not ing a nuclear weapon which would As Obama was speaking, talks Democrats stayed away from last month in the face of growing unrest, moving all its remaining watch the speech but saw a tran- make it far more dangerous, the between the United States and Netanyahu’s address, many more American staff out of Yemen. script. “I am not focused in the prime minister did not offer any Iran to reach an agreement contin- lawmakers from both sides of the Ambassador Matthew Tueller will now be based out of an office in politics of this, I am not focused viable alternatives.” ued in Switzerland. The deal would aisle did attend, and he was wel- the Saudi port of Jeddah, the US official said ahead of a visit to Saudi on the theatre,” Obama said. “As “We don’t yet have a deal,” he limit Iranian nuclear activity for comed with a warm standing ova- Arabia today by Secretary of State John Kerry. far as I can tell, there was noth- added. “But if we are successful, a decade or more, but would not tion and left to raucous applause. Tueller visited Yemen’s embattled President Abdrabuh Mansur Hadi ing new.” then in fact this will be the best completely dismantle facilities that See also page 7 in Aden on Monday, saying afterwards he remains the “legitimate” “On the core issue, which is deal possible with to prevent Iran could be used to make a bomb. AFP leader of the troubled Gulf country. AFP WEDNESDAY 4 MARCH 2015 02 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com HOME 2022 Committee wins BSI quality award DOHA: British Ambassador PMO on this major achievement. that the award has so much Nicholas Hopton yester- “The SC is a world-class credibility. BSI challenged us a day presented a certificate organisation, so it is a privilege lot, but we benefited from it as to the Supreme Committee and a delight that PMO has been we continue to oversee and con- for Delivery & Legacy’s (SC) recognised by BSI. tribute towards the successful Programme Management “This is a prestigious award delivery of the whole programme Office (PMO), acknowledg- which can be achieved by suc- for 2022. ing its achievement of qual- cessful completion of a rigorous “Quality and continuous ity management award ISO implementation process, but, improvement are at the core of 9001:2008. in the long term, this will be what we do, and now we’ve been ISO 9001 is an internationally- regarded as an effort well spent given a head start by being able acclaimed award from British as it will help the SC create a to send a message to everyone Standard Institute (BSI) which sustainable legacy in terms of that, like safety, delivering qual- acknowledges successful imple- project management and exper- ity needs to be a habit, not a mentation of a quality man- tise, not just for the country, but coincidence.” agement system. The complete also for the region. Mark Basham, Group MD, system ensures consistency in “The British government EMEA, BSI, said: “The qual- planning, control, quality assur- continues to fully support the ity management system which British Ambassador Nicholas Hopton presents the certificate during a ceremony. ance and quality improvement, SC every step of the way, espe- has been deployed by PMO will and is implemented through cially with the expertise we give it the framework to deliver to applying the very best prac- the SC, in a similar way to how to come from the private sector standards applied to an organi- gained from our London Olympic excellence, so I applaud PMO for tices and frameworks to allow we helped London and Beijing — but with the full support and sation’s structure, policies, pro- Games in 2012.” the leadership it has shown. consistency in quality. deliver excellence at Olympic backing of the British embassy cedures, processes and resources. Abdullah Al Attiyah, Acting “This is the first project to “We are excited to be part- Games in 2012 and 2008.” — and particularly in those sec- In his keynote speech at the Executive Director, PMO, said: come to fruition between the nering with the SC on this jour- Hopton said there is a grow- tors where the UK has a lot of award ceremony, Hopton said: “This is an outstanding achieve- SC and BSI, and this milestone ney, and look forward to future ing push in the UK to invest in expertise, such as construction, “On behalf of the British govern- ment for PMO and the SC, given should be viewed as a statement discussions around applying a Qatari businesses. design and project delivery”. ment, I’d like to congratulate the that BSI is world-renowned and of intent that PMO is committed similar approach to the rest of “The drive on this front has THE PENINSULA Minister hails private sector for promoting arts, culture

BY RAYNALD C RIVERA such activities as one of the vital “Every year we see develop- elements of society and this is ment and this year participants DOHA: Minister of Culture, what Al Asmakh has done by are not only from the GCC but Arts and Heritage H E Dr organising the symposium for the also from other countries in dif- Hamad bin Abdulaziz Al Kuwari third year.” ferent continents. This shows has hailed the role of the private The symposium is one of the that Doha has become a cultural sector in promoting culture and events Regency Art, a non-profit capital by hosting such important arts in Qatar. private art entity, has been organ- event. The huge attendance and Addressing the culmination ising year round to support artists the variety of paintings and diver- of the third annual Al Asmakh and collect new artworks which sity of issues they address reflect International Symposium of Art would be part of its permanent this fact,” he said. yesterday at Wyndham Grand collection to be displayed in a Hassan Ibrahim Al Asmakh, Regency Doha Hotel, Dr Al museum being planned. Vice President, Regency Group Kuwari said, “The private sec- The Minister said the sympo- Holding, said the symposium is tor can play an important role in sium was “one of the important organised to promote the art and cultural events if they have the art events being held regularly in culture sector in line with Qatar desire and willingness to support Qatar. National Vision 2030.

Minister of Culture, Arts and Heritage H E Dr Hamad bin Abdulaziz Al Kuwari (centre) with Mohammed Al Atiq (left), General Manager, Regency Art, and General Coordinator, Al Asmakh International Symposium of Art, at the event yesterday. ABDUL BASIT

He thanked sponsors and par- ago. This was the second time she Minister of Education and ticipants for their contribution to participated in the symposium Higher Education H E Dr the success of the symposium on and said it was “a great experi- Mohammed Abdul Wahed Ali Al its third year. ence meeting artists from all over Hammadi, Minister of Energy Yesterday’s event witnessed the world sharing experiences”. and Industry H E Dr Mohamed the unveiling of 100 paintings Gala Caki from Serbia was of bin Saleh Al Sada and Qatar by 48 artists from 28 countries the same view. “The symposium Tourism Authority Chairman Issa who worked for a week in Sealine was well organised and one of the bin Mohammed Al Mohannadi using a wide range of media and best I have attended. It is good were among the guests at the dealing with diverse subjects. for a young artist like me to learn event attended by prominent Saudi artist Nouf Al Ibrahim’s from other artists. I’m lucky to Qatari artists. mixed media artworks depict be here.” The exhibition is open to the Arab women in abaya she refers In her paintings, Caki creates public today from 10am to 8pm at to as metaphor for physical and people that don’t exist who she Wyndham Grand Regency Doha’s mental covering of women, a con- says are drawn from her imagi- Al Qasr ballroom. cept she started working a year nary world to live for a long time. THE PENINSULA

HBKU launches postgraduate courses at College of Science and Engineering DOHA: Hamad Bin Khalifa of Qatar and the region. These research entities in Qatar and University (HBKU), a member will be taught by experienced outside. of Qatar Foundation (QF), is faculty from around the world “The current influx of biologi- launching three new postgrad- handpicked based on expertise cal and biomedical researchers uate programmes at College of and reputation in the key subject into Qatar and the establish- Science and Engineering. areas. ment of biomedical and health Applications are open for stu- Students will be given the sciences institutes and national dents seeking to apply to the opportunity to engage in ground- projects here is a testament to master’s and PhD programmes in breaking, cutting-edge research the potential that lives here,” said Biological and Biomedical Sciences and will join faculty to work Dr Mounir Hamdi, Dean of the (BBS), Sustainable Energy, and in laboratories of prestigious college. Sustainable Environment. research institutes in Qatar and The Sustainable Energy and Classes begin in Fall 2015. around the world. Faculty will Sustainable Environment pro- The new master’s programmes integrate their research into grammes will address energy will be taught over two years, classes, creating an enriching and environment issues facing with the PhD programmes tak- academic experience for students the region. ing three to four years. that extend beyond the classroom. The multidisciplinary aspect The launch is in line with QF’s One of these fields is biologi- is present in both programmes vision of establishing education cal and biomedical research and as they incorporate study across and research programmes that the BBS programme is a multi- a broad range of environmental support the human, social and disciplinary to expose gradu- sciences, social sciences, engi- economic development of Qatar. ate students to state-of-the-art neering and technology in their The programmes have been tai- basic, clinical and translational curriculum alongside opportunity lored to focus on fields central to life sciences research, in collabo- for research. long-term aspirations and needs ration with other universities and THE PENINSULA WEDNESDAY 4 MARCH 2015 HOME www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 03

People ‘bitten’ by PHCC move to stop ‘QCF Ambassadors’ to empower youth walk-in meetings at dental clinics Training, workshops and presentations to DOHA: A recent move by Primary promote career development Healthcare Corporation (PHCC) stopping walk-in consultations at DOHA: Qatar Career participating school will market, learn about work its dental clinics has irked citizens Fair (QCF), a member of select five to six students environments and receive and expatriates. Qatar Foundation (QF), from 10th and 11th grades training from some of the The decision took effect last has officially launched to take part in workshops most prestigious compa- December 1. its ground-breaking on self-development, lead- nies in Qatar. Several residents surveyed by a youth empowerment ership, strategic planning, They will also receive local Arabic daily said the move programme, ‘QCF team-building and prob- information on how to had forced them to shell out huge Ambassadors’. lem-solving, and helping prepare resumes, conduct amounts at expensive private The ceremony was held with confidence-building job interviews and deliver clinics. at Hamad Bin Khalifa and critical thinking. presentations. As per the new rule, patients are University’s (HBKU) Complementing other In his opening speech required to take a prior appointment Student Centre, attended youth initiatives, these at the launch, Abdulla Al to see a doctor at dental clinics of pri- by over 230 high school stu- skills will hone partici- Mansoori, Director, Qatar mary health centres, said the daily. dents from 18 Independent pants leadership abilities, Career Fair, said: “Through Dr Ahmed Abdul Kareem, schools, academic advis- enabling them to assume a this programme, we aim Director, Abu Backer Health Centre, ers and career guidance role in building a prosper- to encourage young men said the decision was taken due to the counsellors. ous future for Qatar. and women to start tak- crowding at dental clinics. There are Through the pro- The project will feature ing the initiative, while a doctors compared to the number of gramme, QCF supports year-round training ses- simultaneously promoting visitors. However, emergency cases QF’s strategic objective to sions, workshops and pres- a culture of leadership and are looked after in limited numbers. equip Qatar’s youth with entations that will promote creativity. He said the problem would be educational capacities, and career development while “We also hope to raise solved with the opening of six health personal development and raising awareness of the awareness of social initia- centres by the second quarter of this leadership skills. importance of planning for tives in Qatar.” Participants at the launch of the initiative. year. Each will have 10 dental clinics, The initiative takes the future. “‘QCF Ambassadors’ is he added. inspiration from QCF’s Participants will be presently for high school groups, such as univer- every participating student awareness of career devel- He said another problem causing motto, ‘Your Future provided with opportuni- students but over time we sity students. “The pro- will become an ambassador opment to classmates,” he delays is that some patients with in Your Hands’. Each ties to explore the local job plan to involve older age gramme is important as for QCF, and will help raise added. THE PENINSULA prior appointment do not inform in advance if they are not showing up. Mohammed Al Qahtani, a citizen, said he was shocked by the decision since many people prefer the nearest health centre for dental services. “The only option for people seeking Citizens criticise poor call centres, hotline services emergency care is to go to a private facility. Private dental clinics are very DOHA: Citizens have come when it comes to healthcare Abdulla Al Hargan said the services. Dr Saif Al Hajri, Chairman, expensive.” out heavily against the alleg- facilities because they are sup- attitude of call centre employees Saad Al Badr said many peo- Centre for Environment Friends, He said private clinics are also now edly poor performance of call posed to be different since they depends more on their tempera- ple who don’t want to go to said this is an annoying situation crowded like government clinics as centres and hotline services at deal with patients. ment than training or education. hospital on many occasions are he had experienced many times. many are included in the national government hospitals and pri- “Because of their ignorance, “They don’t understand the forced to do that due to the poor “Some people think that this health insurance scheme — Seha. mary health centres. people are forced to visit health importance of their job. Their performance of call centres. is a minor issue because they Citizens can now seek treatment at They say calls from the pub- centres all the time, wasting performance should be moni- “Sometimes people call to don’t understand how much these centres under health insurance lic have been ignored and those time and efforts. This also leads tored through CCTV cameras. enquire about some required time and effort they can save by cover. in charge of the service are not to unnecessary rush in those They should have accountability. documents but they don’t get answering queries promptly,” “The solution is to increase dental aware of its importance and facilities. Call centre employees If they cannot answer a question answers,” said Al Badr. said Al Hajri. clinics at primary health centres to don’t know how to deal with should be trained and educated instantly, they can ask the caller According to Dr Hassan Al Dr Batool Khalifa, a sociolo- protect the public from greedy pri- customers, a local Arabic daily on how to deal with custom- to wait,” said Al Hargan. Abdallah, a dermatologist, the gist at Qatar University, said call vate clinics,” said another citizen. reported yesterday. ers,” Al Ghaithani said, adding Minaikhir Al Marri believes inefficiency of call centres could centre and hotline staff should Another citizen said people living According to Abdul Rahman he didn’t want to generalise the the hotline and call centre serv- cause financial losses to private be held accountable for perform- outside Doha are in a worse situation Al Ghaithani, the problem exists issue. ices are given to receptionists as facilities and loss of trust in gov- ance. They should be available since not enough private dental clin- not only in health centres but “ Call centres reflect the image an additional job. They would be ernment facilities. Call centre round-the-clock, not just during ics there are included in Seha. also other government facilities. of the institution, whether good busy attending calls and may not staff need awareness about their official working hours. THE PENINSULA However, it is more serious or bad,” he said. be well informed about hospital job rather than training. THE PENINSULA WEDNESDAY 4 MARCH 2015 04 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com HOME

Greeting cables Gulf Studies Programme launches PhD sent to Bulgaria president DOHA: Emir H H Sheikh Qatar University’s three-year course to focus on GCC, Iran, Iraq and Yemen Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani yesterday sent a cable of con- BY FAZEENA SALEEM gratulations to Bulgarian President Rosen Plevneliev on DOHA: In response to the his country’s National Day. growing need in the region, Deputy Emir H H Sheikh the Gulf Studies Programme Abdullah bin Hamad Al Thani at Qatar University (QU) yes- also sent a cable of congratula- terday announced the launch tions to Plevneliev. of its doctorate (PhD), which Prime Minister and Interior will be first of its kind in the Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah Middle East. bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani The interdisciplinary three- sent a similar cable to the year programme includes course president. work, research and a thesis and Dr Mohamed Ahmedna, Associate Dean, Research and Graduate Affairs and HMC Heart Hospital, and Dr Abdullah Baabood, Director, Gulf Studies will enrol six most eligible stu- Centre, QU, with other officials at the press conference yesterday. N-technology use dents in Fall 2015, officials told a press conference at QU. courses according to their needs “We have started receiving on an interdisciplinary curricu- skills by taking the Arabic in sustainable Students enrolling to the PhD and backgrounds, which will be applications from a consider- lum to provide a holistic exami- for Non-Native Speakers will have a choice to obtain the determined by the programme. able number of students. Some nation of the six GCC member programme and Persian for growth urged degree from QU or a joint degree “The PhD is being introduced are those who hold a Master’s states, Iran, Iraq and Yemen. Arabic-speaking students, offered from QU and Durham upon the success of the Master’s in Gulf Studies from QU,” Dr It includes topics in the areas which will be offered by other VIENNA: Qatar has wel- University, the UK. programme and to meet the Abdullah Baabood, Director, of politics, economics, history, QU programmes. comed the increasing role of Students are required to need for research-based studies Gulf Studies Centre, QU, told literature, international rela- The Gulf studies programme nuclear science and technol- hold a Master’s degree in Gulf on various aspects of the region,” this daily. However, selection of tions, security, energy industry, has seen six students graduating ogy for peaceful applications, Studies from QU or in a related said Dr Eiman Mustafawi, Dean, students will be competitive and ecology and culture. from the Master’s program since particularly in the areas of subject, or its equivalent, from College of Arts and Science, QU, only the best will be enrolled in Classes are taught by expert its launch in Fall 2011 and 10 will food and agriculture, human an accredited university, for said. the first year,” he added. faculty and academics who spe- graduate this year. and animal health, environ- admission. Applications will open online Dr Baabood claimed that stu- cialise in Gulf studies. Currently, the Master’s pro- ment and water. It considers it Those who have not com- on QU’s website next week; how- dents from other regions had All classes are taught in gram has a class of 13 students a matter of hope, especially as pleted Master’s in Gulf Studies ever interested students could also applied. English. Students will also be selected from among 60 appli- the United Nations prepares will require to attend bridging apply directly. The PhD programme draws required to develop language cants. THE PENINSULA this year post-2015 sustain- able development plan. This came in a statement delivered by Qatari Ambassador to Austria and Permanent Representative to International QA sponsors Spring expo to feature Atomic Energy Agency and international organisations, Ali Khalfan Al Mansouri, under Chi Al Shaqab item (review of nuclear tech- 21 Doha-based artists nologies for 2015) within IAEA for second year Board of Governors spring ses- DOHA: International Artists The artists from Croatia, sion 2015. DOHA: Qatar Airways (QA) is of Doha (IAD) is to launch the Tunisia, Iraq, Germany, Canada, Al Mansouri called for maxi- a sponsor of the third edition of fifth Spring exhibition featuring India, Iran, the Netherlands, the mum use of nuclear applica- Chi Al Shaqab, a six-day inter- works of 21 Doha-based artists UK, the US and Qatar will display tions in sustainable development national equestrian competition from 11 countries. recent works in a wide range of and said all nations need it for taking place until March 7 at Hosted by Qatar Foundation styles from realism to abstract. development. He also called Al Shaqab, Member of Qatar Community Services, the expo IAD was formed in 2011 by for deployment of technologies Foundation in Doha. opens on Saturday at 6.30pm at Dutch artists Winnifred Bastian and applications, especially in Following the success of the AaQool Atrium, QF Recreation and Marjolijn Stolk as a non- developing countries that need contest over the past two years, Centre in Education City. profit organisation for interna- more support and greater inter- about 200 of the world’s best Artists include Ahmad Allawy, tional artists living and working national cooperation, and said national and international riders Annette Wendling-Willeke, Ben in Doha. It provides members these technologies and applica- and 200 horses from more than 33 Barbour, Charlene Kasdorf, Dorte with a platform to share experi- tions should be an integral part countries are expected to compete Meichsner, Dominika Bozic, ences, learn from one another and of the post-2015 sustainable for a prize purse of over 1m euros. Elham Razani, Hannelore Seckel, interact with other artists from development programme. The riders will have the oppor- Jacinthe Lecomte, Jameela Al around the globe. He stressed the need for coop- tunity to showcase skills in five Shraim, Leila B Chaieb Elhaj, It collaborates with local art eration between IAEA and con- disciplines: Dressage, Vaulting, Horses are ready for transport in one of the specially designed stalls on Mahesh Kumar, Nigel Muter, initiatives and showcases mem- cerned UN agencies to achieve Show Jumping, Endurance and, board a QA Cargo freighter flight. Sabah Arbilli, Salim Abdulla, bers’ art to the public through the widest possible use of these Para Dressage, for the first time Shahida Ahmed, Shihar Hamza, exhibitions and publications. technologies and develop them in the Middle East and Asia. for these amazing animals, and we They are loaded into ‘air sta- Urvashi Gaekwad Chauhan, The expo is open to the public for the benefit of humankind. As the official partner for the are committed to ensuring that bles’ or ‘horse stalls’ — special Verity Watkins, Yousef Ellis and daily until March 26 from 8am to QNA contest, QA Cargo will provide they are handled with utmost containers that can fit up to three Willemina Mansell. 8pm. THE PENINSULA transportation for participat- care by our team, just as we do horses side by side, providing safe ing horses. The horses, including with everything we transport.” and secure transport while on the Olympic winners, will arrive in QA Cargo transports animals aircraft. Doha via three QA Cargo freight- in accordance with International The contest was launched in Aljazeera forum on Arab world from May 4 to 6 ers that will ensure a smooth and Air Transport Association (IATA) 2013 under the patronage of H E DOHA: The ninth Aljazeera Forum will take and the future of democracy in the Arab world; comfortable journey for them. Live Animal Regulations. Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad place from May 4 to 6 under the theme ‘Conflict Manifestations of the conflict in the Middle East Ulrich Ogiermann, QA Chief Unlike other small pets such Al Thani and H E Sheikha Al and transformation in the Arab world’. (national identity, political context, social condi- Officer Cargo, said: “QA Cargo is as cats and dogs, horses can- Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Decisionmakers, academicians, politicians, authors tions, religious and sectarian divisions, transnational delighted to again offer support not be transported in the lower Al Thani. The event, supported by and journalists from across the world will attend. armed groups); The role of economic conditions in to this world-class event. We take deck of regular passenger planes QF, is the first of its kind in the The forum will discuss in seven sessions latest fuelling or reducing conflicts; The Palestinian issue pride in providing five-star serv- and must be flown on dedicated Middle East and Asia. developments in the Arab world. Topics include: and the future of peace; and Armies and politics in ices on the ground and in the air freighters. THE PENINSULA Media and Middle East conflicts; Despotism the Arab world. THE PENINSULA HMC appoints new chair of emergency medicine DOHA: Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) has appointed Professor Stephen Thomas (pic- tured) as the Chair of Emergency Medicine. Prof. Thomas joins HMC from University of Oklahoma School of Medicine, where he held the positions of George Kaiser Family Foundation Professor and Chair for the Department of Emergency Medicine since 2009, and other academic positions. for HMC. “It is an exciting Previously, he held sen- time to be joining Hamad; ior positions with Harvard the unprecedented growth Medical School and in Qatar’s population will Massachusetts General result in ever increasing Hospital, one of the world’s pressures on emergency most respected medical care,” he added. institutions. As Chair of Emergency He will build on the Medicine, he will over- progress in emergency see and provide strategy medical care in HMC hos- and direction for HMC’s pitals under his eminent emergency departments. predecessor’s leadership. The largest Emergency Emergency medicine Department is at Hamad is a vital element of any General Hospital, which healthcare service and is one of the busiest in the HMC is clear that it is world, seeing around 1,500 a top priority and Prof. patients a day. There are Thomas’ experience will emergency departments enable HMC to deliver the at Al Khor Hospital, Al best possible emergency Wakra Hospital and The medical care to people. Cuban Hospital, which Prof Thomas said he was have undergone rapid looking forward to start- growth in the number of ing his new role as Chair patients. of Emergency Medicine THE PENINSULA WEDNESDAY 4 MARCH 2015 HOME www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 05 Qatar Tourism Authority attends ITB Berlin 2015

DOHA: Qatar Tourism Al Qurese, Chief Marketing & with local and regional hotel launch properties on the inter- initiatives. The stand will feature enhance Qatar’s profile in the Authority (QTA) is taking part Promotions Officer, QTA. groups. national market. a promotion for QTA’s ‘Tawash’ market. in ITB Berlin 2015 to promote QTA is leading a delegation for “Collectively, participants will Many local top tour opera- online destination training pro- “Since last year’s ITB, we have Qatar in the German-speaking ITB which runs until Sunday. The provide visitors with an excellent tors and DMCs will be repre- gramme, where travel agents set up a representative office European market and exhibit team includes 22 tourism organi- cross-section of Qatar’s hospital- sented with QTA. They include and other tourism professionals providing us with a permanent a range of attractions, serv- sations comprising 14 hotels and ity offerings, focusing on the five- Arabian Adventures Qatar, Qatar are able to sign up, via on-stand on-the-ground presence in the ices and initiatives in Qatar in eight destination management star, four-star and boutique hotel International Adventures, Gulf tablets at www.tawashqatar.com German-speaking countries,” he its drive to boost international companies (DMCs). sectors,” he said. Adventures, Regency Holidays, and start the process of becoming noted. tourist arrivals. “We will provide trade visitors These will include Grand Discover Qatar (holiday divi- accredited experts on Qatar. “This has reinforced our day- “We are seeing a highly encour- with a comprehensive insight into Hyatt Doha, Grand Regal, Four sion of Qatar Airways), Sand The programme, which has to-day marketing capabilities and aging growth with the travel destinations and their attrac- Seasons, InterContinental Doha, Dunes, Travel Designer and Arab attracted European travel agents, liaison with the travel trade and trade, media and consumers and tions. The wide range of hotels Ritz-Carlton Doha, Sharq Village Destination of Tourism. aims to build an international media. We are now able to engage it is clear that Qatar ‘has what it and other tourism suppliers tak- & Spa, St Regis, Sheraton Doha The companies have experience team of authoritative ‘tourism in a full range of year-round mar- takes’ to appeal to visitors from ing part means our stand is effec- Resort & Convention Hotel, in looking after European visi- ambassadors’ for the destination keting activities, including trade this part of the world. tively a ‘one-stop shop’ for doing Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels, The tors, providing ground transport, in their home markets. visits and calls, road shows, work- “Last year, Qatar welcomed business with Qatar’s tourism sec- Torch, Retaj Hotels & Hospitality, tours, sightseeing and specialised Al Qurese emphasised that shops, travel agents’ training, around 40,000 arrivals from tor,” added AlQurese. Concord Hotel Doha and The arrangements, such as incentive while participation in ITB is a familiarisation visits, media rela- Germany, 6,000 from Austria and Qatar’s hospitality offerings Plaza Inn. travel itineraries. major highlight of QTA’s promo- tions and cooperative marketing nearly 8,000 from Switzerland. will be showcased. Many leading The new hotels — Banana ITB will also give QTA an tional activity in Germany, it is projects with airline partners and These are solid foundations on international hotel brands will Island Resort by Antanara and opportunity to promote other only one element in an exten- other stakeholders.” which to build,” said Rashed exhibit their products, together Marza Malaz Kempinski will attractions, services and sive programme of initiatives to THE PENINSULA Qatari artist HMC begins studies to highlight Ameera Al Aji displays road and workplace injuries DOHA: Hamad Medical Project: A Randomised Study to injury to inform educational pro- abstracts Corporation’s (HMC) Trauma Increase Child Restraint Use in grammes for families to increase Center at Hamad General Qatar and A Unified Registry for the use of child restraints and DOHA: Abstract works by Hospital (HGH) has begun two Workplace Injury Prevention in promoting children’s safety on Qatari artist Ameera Al Aji research studies to raise aware- Qatar. the road,” said Dr Ruben Peralta, are featured in a solo exhibition ness of the prevention of road Collaborators include repre- Senior Consultant Surgeon ‘Different’ at Katara Building and workplace injuries. sentatives from HMC, Supreme and Director, HMC’s Trauma 18. The studies focus on promoting Council of Health, Primary Health and Critical Care Fellowship The exhibition, which runs children’s safety on the road and Care Corporation, the Ministry Programme, an international until March 20, features white- identifying complex factors that of Labour, Qatar Red Crescent expert in road safety and lead and-blue installations in triangu- lead to occupational or workplace and Johns Hopkins International principal investigator of the study. lar shape in various sizes through injuries. Injury Research Unit of Johns Dr Rafael Consunji, Director, which Al Aji attempts to address Research collaborators in their Hopkins Bloomberg School of Hamad Injury Prevention the concept of difference and respective grants held their first Public Health, Baltimore, the US. Programme at HGH and lead challenges of being different. meeting to discuss aspects of the Speaking at the launch of the principal investigator of the uni- It features 145 ‘pyramids’ and research studies, including objec- grants, Dr Hassan Al Thani, Head fied registry grant, said, “The six large-scale rectangular pan- tives, methodologies, timeliness of the centre, said: “The two creation of a unified registry for els with the title ‘Celebration of and expectations. grants are an important embodi- workplace injury prevention will differences’. The centre was recently ment of our belief that our most help us identify complex factors The concept of triangles, she Qatari artist Ameera Al Aji (left) and Ahmed Al Sayed (fourth left), Deputy awarded over $1.7m in research important work must take place that lead to occupational or work- says, has been drawn from her Director General, Operations, Katara, at the opening of the exhibition. grants by Qatar National outside the confines of the operat- place injuries, and inform stake- recollections from her interac- Research Fund’s National ing theatre, emergency room and holders of areas or factors that tion with her environment and challenges, while the differences keen to encourage Qatari artists Priorities Research Programme intensive care unit. need to be addressed or corrected inspired by traditional designs in angles and positioning depict by providing them with a plat- for two studies: Young Kids “Y-KISS study will analyse to reduce the burden of workplace predominantly used in sadu transitions one experiences in form to display their expertise in Safe Seats (Y-KISS) Qatar risk factors for child passenger injuries.” THE PENINSULA weaving heritage of the region. various stages in life, she explains. through their works which cre- Each triangle has a distinct Ahmed Al Sayed, Deputy ate a mark in the local and global pattern. While some are equi- Director General, Operations, art scene. lateral with similar height and Katara opened the exhibition Al Aji has participated in exhi- size, others are varied in terms of and praised Al Aji for the artis- bitions in Qatar and overseas, angle, orientation and presenta- tic maturity shown by the works including Oman and Abu Dhabi. tion in space. which embody universal human She has been recognised for The repetitiveness of triangles experience through the artist’s her works, some of which have suggests challenges one faces expression of her thoughts and been acquired by individuals and every day, the variation in sizes feelings. institutions here and abroad. highlights the varied intensity of He said Katara has always been THE PENINSULA

QR188,000 up for grabs in Hala contest DOHA: Continuing its by Australia and New Zealand and For terms and conditions of the celebration of the biggest began on February 14. There are 49 competition or details about inter- cricket event this year, matches across 14 venues, available national calling offers, visit www. Ooredoo has announced in HD via Mozaic TV. ooredoo.qa THE PENINSULA an opportunity for Hala subscribers to win cash prizes for making an international call. The competition asks subscribers to call an international number for three or more consecutive minutes to be entered into a free raffle draw. Customers eligible to enter the draw will get a chance of winning one of 24 QR2,000 daily prizes, four weekly prizes of QR10,000 and a grand prize of QR100,000. The contest aims to reward all cricket fans who share excitement with their loved ones overseas about 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup taking place this month. The competition ends on March 13 and winners will be notified by April 12. Hala users subscribed to any of Ooredoo’s portfolio of international money saving options, such as Hala India Key, Hala International Saver key and more, will also be eli- gible for the competition. This is the latest in a long line of offers for the cricket season, as Ooredoo is offering Mozaic TV Pehla Variety package cus- tomers access to a higher tier package — OSN Pehla Spice Plus for free, which includes full coverage of the cricket world cup on the OSN Sports Cricket channel. The 12th ICC Cricket World Cup is being hosted WEDNESDAY 4 MARCH 2015 06 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com HOME British Festival 2015 begins Month-long events to focus on UK-Qatar partnership

DOHA: Showcasing strong bilateral ties, the month- long British Festival Qatar 2015 was officially launched yesterday. The festival will host 40 events and a concert by award- Qatar Olympic Committee Secretary-General Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman Al winning five-piece traditional Thani (centre), with other GCC National Olympic Committee officials. Scottish band, Breabach, who will perform a selection of tradi- tional Scottish folk music, with Qatar’s proposal to be a unique and contemporary edge, accompanied by Qatari musician Mohamed AI Saigh. The concert will be on April sent to GCC authorities 5, at Al Rayyan Theatre in Souq Waqif towards the end of the Continued from page 1 at the school level.” festival. Shibli said: “The proposal will be The plan to launch a sports court Events will focus on UK and forwarded to higher authorities of in Bahrain has also been cleared. Qatar partnership, emphasising the GCC to finalise details. After “It will deal with legal problems in connections and common inter- Nicholas Hopton, British Ambassador, greets Marzook Basheer Ali Marzook from the Ministry of Culture, that, it will be decided like where and the sports field or related with sports ests and covering a wide range Arts and Heritage, after the press conference to announce the official launch of the festival, at the embassy when the first GCC Sports Day will persons. A jury will be set up within of fields, including art, educa- yesterday. With them are officials from British Council and sponsoring companies. SALIM MATRAMKOT take place.” six months and hearings will be done tion, science, sport and business. “Saturday is part of the weekend in in Bahrain. Sports laws will also be The festival coincides with promote the GREAT Britain British Council Qatar, Dr during the festival could be the region so it can ensure huge pub- enacted soon,” said Sheikh Saoud. the UK government’s GREAT campaign. Marzook Basheer Ali Marzook, viewed on www.facebook.com/ lic participation,” Sheikh Saoud said. The rich Gulf has been controlling campaign which encourages “We look forward to continu- from the Ministry of Culture, britfestaqa, www.twitter.com/ “We’re confident that it would get 13 sports bodies in Asia and Sheikh everybody to be involved with ing our work with our sponsors Arts and Heritage, and other britfestaqa and www.instagram. positive response and raise aware- Saoud said it reflected the region’s the best of Britain, specifi- and partners as the festival is dignitaries were present. com/ britfestaqa ness in the communities in the region growing influence at the continen- cally in business, tourism and launched. I hope many resi- A car of the iconic British The festival’s official sponsors about health and fitness.” tal level besides showing the trust education. dents get involved in the fes- brand ‘Mini’ from Al Fardan are Ezdan Holding Group, Qatar Sheikh Saoud said a lot of atten- and cooperation among the member “The festival provides a plat- tival and are inspired to visit, Automobiles will visit impor- Shell, Charles Russell Speechlys, tion is being given to promote activi- states. “There are 28 organising com- form for nurturing existing study and invest in the UK in tant places in Doha. People Vodafone Qatar, BAE Systems ties that will harness the youth power mittees under the GCC umbrella. All partnerships and forging new the future,” Nicholas Hopton, could take photos of the car and and Al Balagh Contracting and in the region. “Physical education are working with utmost dedication, ones — in art, commerce, cul- British Ambassador, told an upload them on to the festival’s Trading Company and the festi- classes have been made compulsory seriousness and cooperation. This has ture, education and science. event at the embassy, launch- social media platforms. val is supported by local Qatari for students at each level. The UAE helped us heads in 13 Asian sports “We want to highlight British ing the festival. Latest information and details and British partners. has suggested that all schools must bodies. Yesterday, Qatar’s Dahlan expertise in key sectors and Martin Hope, Director, of all events and promotions THE PENINSULA dedicate one-hour to physical activ- (Jumaan Al Hamad) has been chosen ities for students, which will make as the President of Asian Athletics them active and healthy. Association again.” “The UAE has also offered to host Shibli thanked QOC and Sheikh the first GCC Youth Games and Saoud for making extensive prepa- its request has been approved. The rations for the GCC NOCs meeting. dates and number of sports of GCC “I wish to extend my heartiest QRC holds training for KG students Youth Games would be declared later, congratulations to QOC and Sheikh though the plan is to host the event Saoud for making elaborate arrange- as soon as possible,” he added. ment for the meeting. “Qatar is DOHA: Qatar Red Crescent On the success of Schools Olympic always active about playing its bit visited Al Khor Model Programme, Sheikh Saoud said: “Five in the progress of the region. We Kindergarten for Boys to of the GCC states have started SOP hope recommendations accepted in educate children on how to and will soon get benefits of having the meeting would be implemented act during a disaster as part a good talent base at the grass-roots soon with the consent of GCC higher of QRC’s ‘Safe School’ pro- level. Kuwait has also said to launch authorities.” The four-day meeting gramme under the theme the programme to activate the talent ends today. THE PENINSULA ‘Safe Behaviour, Less Risk and Effective Response.’ Teachers attended a lecture by a QRC medical trainer on first aid and psychological sup- port during earthquakes, while ‘Marvellous Creatures: Animal children received theoretical training on how to evacuate a building. Fables in Islamic Art’ opens A simulated evacuation sce- nario was implemented by students, teachers and admin- istrative staff, who assembled at predefined assembly points, under the supervision of QRC Risk Reduction Team. Students also received copies of ‘Prepared Child’ brochure sponsored by Oryx GTL. “Oryx GTL adopts safety as a top priority, always seek- Teachers attending a lecture on first aid and psychological support. ing the highest safety stand- ards among its staff and their achievement and ensured safety all-day theoretical and practi- youngsters. It also covers top- families. By virtue of the ambi- among staff and their families, cal training scheme with two ics on safety and security of tious approach, the company we are looking forward to pro- breaks. the members of society, raises has recorded a zero risk rate moting this culture throughout Booklets and fliers are dis- awareness of the importance of for three consecutive years, a society, particularly among chil- tributed and a disaster simula- environment protection among world-class achievement that dren,” he said. tion scenario is practised. schoolchildren, teachers, admin- only a few energy and industrial Funded and implemented by The programme aims to pro- istrative staff, bus supervisors, corporations can make,” said QRC in coordination with the mote a culture of safe behaviour and parents; urges them to Hussein Mohamed Al Shemari, host schools, the programme and societal risk management adopt safe behaviour as a life- Public Relations Coordinator, is conducted every Sunday at to prevent, reduce or properly style; and deepens their sense Sheikha Al Nassr (centre), Head of Exhibitions, with Leslee Michelsen, Head of Oryx GTL. a Supreme Education Council deal with risks by developing of responsibility for themselves Curatorial and Research and other officials during the press preview of Marvellous “Having made this (SEC) school, applying an experience and skills among and others. THE PENINSULA Creatures at MIA yesterday. BAHER AMIN

DOHA: ‘Marvellous Creatures: including children, young people and Animal Fables in Islamic Art’ families. opened at Museum of Islamic Art “We hope the exhibition success- (MIA) Special Exhibitions Gallery fully introduces these stories to our Vodafone Foundation’s ‘Instant Classroom’ yesterday. audience who will carry the meaning It focuses on the real and mythical of the tales into their lives and draw animals that appear in legends, tales on their artistic and literary herit- and fables of the Islamic world. age to better understand the natural to benefit children at refugee camps Divided into the natural quad- world and their place within it,” said rants of fire, air, earth and water, Aisha Al Khater, Director, MIA. DOHA: The Vodafone modem with 3G connectivity. provide up to 15,000 children Instant Network Schools pro- the creatures introduce beloved There will be child-friendly and Foundation announced at The tablets can connect to and young adults aged 7 to 20 gramme will be extended to classics, including Kalila wa Dimna, family activities, including interactive the Mobile World Congress the laptop locally, enabling with advanced teaching aids support additional schools Shahnameh and One Thousand and storytelling, late night family tours, the Instant Classroom, a dig- teachers to deliver content that are available in a minority in refugee camps in Kenya, One Nights. puppet shows and creative art work- ital ‘school in a box’ that can and applications to students of schools in developed nations. Tanzania and Congo to reach The wide variety of exhibits — shops, including a workshop where be set up in minutes, help- without the need to access the The Instant Classroom builds out to more than 40,000 chil- manuscripts, textiles, ceramics, jew- children can create their creatures. ing give children and young Internet. on Vodafone Foundation’s dren and young people. ellery, glass and metalwork — from A special Shahnameh Seminar will adults in some of the world’s All components of the experience with tablet-based Andrew Dunnett, Director, the 10th to the 19th centuries, dem- be delivered by scholars Dr Sheila largest and poorly resourced Instant Classroom can be learning programmes. Vodafone Foundation, said: onstrate the enduring appeal of the Canby and artist Hamid Rahmanian, refugee camps the opportu- charged simultaneously from Last year, Vodafone “At the end of 2013, UNHCR characters and stories across cul- exploring the historic and artistic nity to continue education. a single power source while Foundation worked with estimated that there were 50 tures and generations. Illustrations development of Shahnameh, the epic The Instant Classroom has the case is locked. After six to UNHCR’s Education and million refugees and displaced and motifs in the expo reflect the poem that tells the stories of heroes been designed for areas where eight hours of charging time, Innovation units to develop people worldwide, half under diversity of Islamic art production. and rulers of ancient Persia. electricity and the Internet the Instant Classroom can Instant Network Schools 18. With refugees displaced The exhibition takes visitors on a MIA will offer late night tours, connectivity are unreliable be used for a full day without programme, which intro- from homes for an average 17 journey through a sensory experi- an evening talk ‘Spot the Elephant: or non-existent and will be access to electricity. duced tablet-based learning years, many have little or no ence, using storytelling in its forms Royal Processions in Mina’i and deployed in partnership with Over the next year, the to around 18,000 pupils in the access to education. — from colourful illustrations and Lustreware’ and a Karagöz puppet UNHCR’s Innovation and Instant Classroom will be Dadaab refugee settlement in “Instant Classroom is visual displays to audio stories and show ‘Garbage Monster’ by Istanbul Education units. deployed to 12 schools in refu- northern Kenya. robust, simple and powerful. It animation. Karagöz Puppet Foundation. The Instant Classroom is gee settlements in Kakuma in Teachers at Dadaab schools puts the best technology edu- “The timeless tales of Kalila An illustrated exhibition album shipped in a secure and robust Kenya, the Nyarungusu refu- said the tablet-based lessons cators have to offer into the wa Dimna, Shahnameh and One highlighting key objects and stories 52kg case equipped with a lap- gee settlement in Tanzania and have been so popular that pupil hands of children and young Thousand and One Nights highlighted in the exhibition is available at MIA top, 25 tablets pre-loaded with the Equatorial Region in the attendance had increased by people living in the toughest in the exhibition will appeal across Gift Shop. The free expo runs until educational software, a projec- Democratic Republic of Congo. an average of 15 percent. of environments.” the community and diverse cultures, July 11. THE PENINSULA tor, a speaker and a hotspot Instant Classroom will Over the next two years, THE PENINSULA WEDNESDAY 4 MARCH 2015 MIDDLE EAST www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 07 Obama’s 10-year Hadi wants reconciliation N-deal paves Iran’s path nuclear demand talks moved to Saudi ‘unacceptable’ ADEN: Yemen’s President Hadi had proposed that the to the bomb: Netanyahu Abdrabuh Mansur Hadi talks resume in Aden or in third MONTREUX: Iran yester- called yesterday for troubled city Taez, which is also outside day rejected as “unacceptable” UN-brokered reconciliation the control of the Houthis. “As US President Barack Obama’s talks to be moved to neighbour- Aden and Taez are not accepted Israeli president outlines steps before lifting sanctions demand that it freeze sensitive ing Saudi Arabia if agreement by some, I call for shifting the nuclear activities for at least 10 cannot be reached on a venue talks to the headquarters of the WASHINGTON: Israeli years but said it would continue inside Yemen. GCC in Riyadh,” Hadi told tribal Prime Minister Benjamin talks on a deal, Iran’s semi-offi- The call came as at least 32 chiefs. He also called for the GCC Netanyahu declared yesterday cial Fars news agency reported. people were killed in clashes to sponsor the talks, an aide said. that the deal being negotiated Iran laid out the position as the between Shia Houthi gunmen The Houthis, who control much between world powers and US and Iranian foreign ministers and Sunni tribesmen backed by Al of northern Yemen and have set Iran would leave Tehran free met for a second day of negotia- Qaeda militants in central Yemen, up their own government institu- to develop nuclear weapons. tions here. tribal source said. Meanwhile, tions in the capital, have opposed In an impassioned address to Iran’s Mohammed Javad Zarif the Al Qaeda branch claimed any change of venue for the the US Congress, Netanyahu and the United States’ John on Twitter that it carried out a UN-brokered talks. branded Iran a global threat. Kerry met a day after Obama told suicide car bombing of a Houthi The General People’s Congress “That deal will not prevent Iran Reuters that Iran must commit gathering in Baida yesterdy “kill- party of ousted strongman Ali from developing nuclear weap- to a verifiable halt of at least 10 ing and wounding dozens.” Abdullah Saleh, who is widely ons,” he said, placing himself in years on sensitive nuclear work The reconciliation talks, which accused of backing the militia, has stark opposition to US President for a landmark atomic deal to had been held in the Shia militia- said it will boycott any talks held Barack Obama’s policy of contain- be reached. “Iran will not accept held capital, have broken down outside Sana’a. And it is by no ing Iranian ambitions through a excessive and illogical demands,” since Hadi escaped to second means clear that Riyadh will be diplomatic accord. Iranian Foreign Minister city Aden last month after weeks any more acceptable as a venue to “It would all but guarantee that People protest against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu outside Mohammad Javad Zarif was under house arrest. the Houthis or their supporters. Iran gets those weapons, lots of of the Israeli Consulate in Manhattan in New York City yesterday. quoted as saying by Fars. Several GCC states, led by The GCC has thrown its sup- them,” he said, dismissing prom- “Obama’s stance ... is expressed Saudi Arabia, have moved their port behind Hadi. The Gulf states ises from US and European lead- security cooperation between the instead spark nuclear arms race in unacceptable and threatening embassies to Aden after an exodus are deeply suspicious of the ers that the planned accord would countries. But, despite his warm in the most dangerous part of the phrases ... ,” he reportedly said, of foreign diplomats from Sana’a Houthis, fearing they will take block Iran’s path to the bomb. opening words, his speech built planet,” he warned. “This deal adding that talks with Kerry in last month over security con- Yemen into the orbit of Shia Iran. “Iran’s nuclear programme to a thorough denunciation of won’t be a farewell to arms. It Switzerland would nonetheless cerns. But the United States, the And Arab League chief Nabil Al would be left largely intact. Obama’s efforts to strike an would be a farewell to arms control. carry on. The aim of the nego- first to close its mission in Sana’a, Arabi has invited Hadi to attend Iran’s breakout time would be accord, citing Iranian leaders’ “The Middle East would soon tiations is to persuade Iran to announced that is not planning to the annual Arab summit in Cairo very short,” he said. Around 50 threats to “annihilate” Israel and be criss-crossed by nuclear trip restrain its nuclear programme in follow its Gulf partners and move on March 28-29, presidency Democratic members stayed away “aggression” against their Middle wires. A region where small skir- exchange for relief from sanctions. its embassy to Aden. sources said. AFP from the event and Netanyahu East neighbours. mishes trigger big wars would Kerry and Zarif held three was welcomed with a warm stand- “So you see, my friends, this deal turn into a nuclear tinderbox. rounds of talks in the Swiss lake- ing ovation and left to cheers and has two major concessions. One, Before lifting these restrictions, side town of Montreux. Despite raucous applause. leaving Iran with a vast nuclear the world should demand that the tough tone of Zarif’s remarks “I know that my speech has been programme. Two, lifting the Iran do three things. First, stop quoted by Fars, the Iranian struck the subject of much controversy. I restrictions on that programme in its aggression against its neigh- a more conciliatory tone when he deeply regret that some perceive about a decade,” he said. “That’s bours in the Middle East. Second, spoke to reporters after two hours my being here as political,” he said, why this deal is so bad. It doesn’t stop supporting terrorism around of talks with Kerry in the morning. acknowledging complaints that he block Iran’s path to the bomb. It the world. And third, stop threat- Asked if the two sides had reached has endangered Israel’s close ties paves Iran’s path to the bomb.” ening to annihilate my country, an agreement, Zarif replied: “We’ll with Washington. He has also been He cited the strength of Israel, the one and only Jewish try, that’s why we are here.” accused of using the nuclear stand- Iranian-backed factions in state.” “The only way to move forward off as a platform for electioneer- Lebanon, Yemen, Syria and Iraq And he concluded by hailing is though negotiations.” Speaking ing, two weeks ahead of Israeli as evidence of Tehran’s regional the US-Israeli alliance. “Even if after the morning round of talks, polls that could threaten his rul- ambitions, and recalled threats Israel has to stand alone, Israel Kerry told reporters: “We’re ing coalition. against his own people. will stand,” Netanyahu said, “but working away. Productively.” The “That was never my intention,” Thus, he said, no nuclear I know that America stands with two sides have set a deadline of he protested. “I want to thank deal should weaken economic Israel. “I know that you stand late March to reach a frame- you, Democrats and Republicans, sanctions against Iran until its with Israel. You stand with Israel work agreement and of June for for your common support for government ends its aggressive because you know that the story of a comprehensive final settlement Israel year after year, decade stance and alleged support for Israel is not only the story of the to curb Iran’s nuclear activity to Yemen’s President Abdrabuh Mansur Hadi (right) shakes hands with the after decade. We appreciate all terrorist violence. Jewish people, but of the human ensure it cannot be put to bomb newly-appointed British ambassador to Yemen, Edmund Fitton-Brown, in that President Obama has done “A deal that is supposed to pre- spirit that refuses again and again making in return for easing eco- Aden yesterday. for Israel,” he said, citing the close vent nuclear proliferation would to succumb to history.” AFP nomic sanctions. REUTERS WEDNESDAY 4 MARCH 2015 08 VIEWS www.thepeninsulaqatar.com

ESTABLISHED IN 1996

CHAIRMAN SHEIKH THANI BIN ABDULLAH AL THANI

ACTING EDITOR-IN-CHIEF DR KHALID AL-JABER [email protected]

ACTING MANAGING EDITOR HUSSAIN AHMAD [email protected]

EDITORIAL TEL: 44557741 / 44557743 FAX: 44557746 / 44557758 P. O. BOX: 3488, DOHA, QATAR E-MAIL: [email protected]

ADVERTISING: TEL: 44557837 / 780 FAX: 44557870 CLASSIFIED: 44557857 E-MAIL: [email protected]

SUBSCRIPTION / HOME DELIVERY TEL: 44557809 /839 FAX: 44557819 E-MAIL: [email protected] SUBSCRIPTION RATES: ANNUAL QR 675 6 MONTHS QR 340 Editorial

Laid to (un)rest Cartoon Arts International / The New York Times Syndicate

URDERED Russian opposition leader Boris Nemtsov was laid to rest yesterday in Moscow. As thousands paid their last respects before the Mburial, the choice of the venue where Nemtsov’s coffin was placed was symbolic. The hall is named after Soviet A loss for health plan is a dissident Andrei Sakharov. Nemtsov, who was killed near the Kremlin late last Friday was a dissident. One critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s regime waited for his last journey in a hall named after a historical figure known for his opposition loss for conservative goals to Soviet authoritarianism. The dramatic murder of the former Russian Deputy Prime BY CHRISTOPHER FLAVELLE customers and increasing premiums Minister has roiled Putin’s regime like never before. Four even more. This process is called a bullets were pumped into the 55-year-old politician as he F THE Supreme Court rules death spiral for a reason. It would prob- walked along with his 25-year-old girlfriend on a bridge near against the government in the ably happen quickly. It would be hard The surprise success the Kremlin. Anna Duritskaya, a Ukrainian model,has been latest challenge to Obamacare, to reverse. And it would render the of the King case so far, allowed to return to her country after being questioned by the Iconservatives will have done more individual market toxic for people and than undercut the Affordable Care Act. employers alike. police. Putin is facing a barrage of criticism for the killing. They will also have crippled a cause This is where the effects of King v as well as the political A large number of Kremlin opponents directly blame him for they have long supported: weakening Burwell start to clash with another the murder that has grabbed headlines across the globe as the link between health insurance and deep trend in US health care: the shift imperative of figuring Nemtsov was the most prominent opposition figure to be killed employment. away from employer-sponsored cover- out how to respond during Putin’s 15-year rule. The court will hear arguments age. From 2000 to 2010, the share of Jailed opposition leader Alexei Navalny,who is serving a jail Wednesday in King v Burwell, a case Americans who got health insurance to a victory, raises that challenges the authority of the fed- through work fell from 70 percent to 60 sentence,posted a strong statement on his blog directly blaming eral government to subsidize Obamacare percent. Obamacare has contributed to the possibility that Putin for the sensational murder. “I believe that Nemtsov was premiums in states that failed to estab- that trend, in part by making the indi- killed by members of a government (special services) or pro- lish their own insurance exchanges. The vidual market a more palatable option. conservatives haven’t government organisation on the orders Department of Health and Human Separating health insurance from Services says that if the court rules work appeals to conservatives, on the spent much time Even after of the country’s political leadership (including Vladimir Putin).Putin benefits for King, there grounds of personal freedom, mar- Nemtsov’s will be no easy ket efficiency and economic growth. thinking about its longer- from this.” fix. It’s unlikely “Americans are limited in their choices death, it would The murdered Putin critic, who that Republicans of health insurance plans based on what term consequences. be hard for served in former Russian President Boris in Congress could their employers can afford — if a health agree on a legis- plan is even offered at all,” Rep Paul Supreme Court, those credits — and Vladimir Putin Yeltsin’s government in the 1990s, was A ruling for one of the most controversial politicians lative solution, Ryan, R-Wisconsin, wrote in 2010. His the construction of a regulated, afford- the plaintiffs their assertions solution was replacing the tax prefer- able, usable individual insurance market to fend off an who openly spoke against Putin’s rule. to the contrary ence for employer-sponsored insur- made possible by those credits — could aggressive His press statements against the Russian wouldn’t just notwithstanding. ance with personal tax credits to buy yet convince Americans that employer- opposition. leader were nothing short of acerbic. hurt those who What happens insurance: sponsored insurance isn’t the only sen- Putin, a former KGB spy, has been then? As Margot “Making health insurance portable sible way to get health coverage. gradually consolidating his rule in the get subsidies; it Sanger-Katz means an individual no longer will live On the other hand, if King prevails, country which is reeling under western sanctions. A falling writes in the New in fear of losing his or her health care it won’t just retard Obamacare’s efforts would generate York Times, a rul- along with a job. As the marketplace to expand the individual market. It will currency and a weakening economy have led to unprecedented ing for the plain- begins to respond to this new patient- also sabotage the idea that that mar- hardships for Russians who are migrating to the West in large mayhem for tiffs wouldn’t just centered control, the resulting increase ket is anything more than a risky and numbers. Even after death, Nemtsov remains controversial. anybody who hurt those who in competition will improve the quality deeply inferior alternative for those Russia denied entry to two European politicians who wanted get subsidies; it of services and provide more options to who can’t get coverage through their to attend his funeral yesterday. Former Latvian foreign buys coverage would generate meet the diverse needs of Americans, job. And it would mark companies that minister Sandra Kalniete and Bogdan Borusewicz, the speaker mayhem for any- while lowering costs.” don’t provide coverage as irresponsi- on the individual body who buys Sen John McCain, R-Arizona, had ble, uncompetitive or just plain cheap. of Poland’s Upper House of Parliament, were barred from coverage on the made a version of that idea part of Decoupling insurance from work would entering Russia. Moscow said Kalniete was subject to a travel market in the individual mar- his 2008 campaign for president. The be set back years, if not decades. ban for her “anti-Russian activities”. affected states. ket in the affected Heritage Foundation applauded his The surprise success of the King case Amid strained ties with the West over Ukraine, Moscow states. The loss of approach, arguing that the tax system’s so far, as well as the political imperative has been trying to throw its weight around by intimidating the subsidies would preferential treatment of employer- of figuring out how to respond to a vic- raise the real cost sponsored insurance was unfair (it tory, raises the possibility that conserva- Baltic Republics — Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia. Relations of coverage, pushing those who need it benefits only those covered by their tives haven’t spent much time thinking with Poland have also been strained over the insurgency in least — people who are healthy — to stop employer), regressive (those benefits about its longer-term consequences. Ukraine that Moscow has been supporting for more than buying it. skew toward the wealthy), economically Reinforcing an inefficient, unfair and an year now. Putin’s government has pledged to arrest the That would make those who remain inefficient (it spurs higher health costs) uneconomic employer- centered health- perpetrators of the crime. The Russian president’s involvement sicker, on average, and therefore more and “an obstacle to labour mobility.” care system probably wasn’t one of their in the murder, though uncertain, has become a contentious expensive to cover — increasing pre- All of those things are true. And goals. But it will be part of their legacy miums, pushing out yet more healthy if the federal tax credits survive the if they win. WP-BLOOMBERG issue. He will have to deal with it for quite some time to come. The other side Quote of Cricket’s new boss the day NY change at the helm of the was held at a time when Srinivasan posts went to candidates backed expelled from the BCCI in 2006. Some Board of Control for Cricket was barred from contesting for the by Srinivasan’s camp. The outcome may see him now as a ‘Srinivasan in India (BCCI) can be seen post of BCCI chief, on account of the indicates that political manoeuvring man’, but there is little doubt that he Aas an opportunity to end the rule against those having a commercial and orchestration continues to be has enough experience to chart an crisis of credibility that has consumed interest in any event organised by the a dominant feature in the affairs of independent path. And the presence the game’s administration in recent Board becoming office-bearers. With cricket administration in India. of Thakur as secretary is likely to be There’s no reason times. Ever since the betting and spot- Srinivasan’s absence from the fray, the Dalmiya is a seasoned adminis- a balancing factor in the administra- fixing scandal hit the 2013 edition of point of interest in the election at the trator, who, in his earlier stint, began tion. The Supreme Court recently ruled why Central the Indian Premier League, and the BCCI’s annual general meeting was the process of harnessing the sport’s that cricket administration is a public BCCI, under N. Srinivasan, gave whether his faction would outwit the massive marketing potential that led function. It has asked a three-member America cannot the impression of stonewalling any rival group of former BCCI president to Indian cricket going through a com- committee of eminent judges to rec- inquiry, the credibility deficit became so Sharad Pawar. Pawar, however, mercial boom. He has considerable ommend reforms that will help rescue become the next apparent that the judiciary took a dim could not make a comeback, as experience in running the game and the much-loved game from the whims great success story view of the state of affairs. The election the east zone, whose turn it was organising major events at the inter- and vagaries of individuals. The admin- of Jagmohan Dalmiya was without to propose a candidate, chose to national level too. However, he will istration is now expected to stop being in the Western opposition, but the elections for other nominate Dalmiya. The Pawar camp also have to live down the unsavoury an opaque clique or a cosy club and posts were not free of factionalism. managed to get Anurag Thakur aspects of his past. He was accused transform itself into a transparent body. Hemisphere. Joe Biden The BCCI’s annual general meeting elected as secretary, while all other of misappropriation of funds and The Hindu US Vice President WEDNESDAY 4 MARCH 2015 QATAR PERSPECTIVE www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 09 Emir’s US visit should silence Qatar’s critics military force but only through sincere dialogue that will prevent wars and negate the idea of using threats or force for a dictator, party or sect to remain in power. Back to the question, what did His Highness say and what was he told? He surely said a lot. The Emir said in the White House that the mother of all ills in the Middle East is the Israeli occupa- tion of Palestine since 1948. BY DR MOHAMMED The international community SALEH AL MISFER has no political will to resolve the problem of the Palestinian people under Zionist occupation, which mir H H Sheikh Tamim is a colonisation that the world is bin Hamad Al Thani, unable to find a solution to. may God protect him, White colonialism has ended Epaid an official visit in South Africa. The same goes to Washington — his first after for Namibia and all African coun- assuming the country’s leadership. tries which were under British or This came after his visit to French rule. Japan, which was considered by The Palestinian people con- both Qataris and the Japanese a tinue to live in misery in refugee total success. camps and we in the free world Now, what did the Emir say must restore their land under a in Washington and what was he united national government on told? Palestinian territory with all the A picture speaks a thousand human rights that are enjoyed by words, and from that perspec- people elsewhere. There cannot tive, I say that His Highness be a free world as long as there was extremely well received are people living under colonial- in Washington. Looking at the ism in the 21st century. unprecedented photos of both The Emir said to every leaders during their meeting at American leader he met that the White House, I can tell from they should not confuse Islam their genuine smiles that things with terrorism. must have gone really well. “With the help of the inter- Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani speaking at the Capitol, the seat of the US Congress. When the teeth are seen in a national community, we must smile, it shows truthfulness and rebuild the confidence of the not just good diplomacy; both Arab youth whom deprivation, forms, but asserted that terror- international coalition against of the Syrian society to restore The American president again the Qatari and American leaders corruption, injustice, tyranny ism differed from resistance to terrorism, expressing his appre- their united, independent state, praised the efforts of Qatar in its had broad smiles on their faces, and abuse of human dignity led gain independence and liberation ciation of Qatar’s efforts in this since Bashar Al Assad has lost fight against terrorism and also showing their molars in one of the to rebel against their regimes from any imposed force. regard. legitimacy and cannot be a part confirmed that Qatar devoted photos. through revolutions known as The Emir said a lot about Arab I would like to remind everyone of any feasible solution. part of its resources to achieving What does that mean? In my the Arab Spring. They demanded affairs and the role of the inter- that those who have been defeated On Iraq, President Barack world peace. opinion, it shows sincerity in the overthrow of those regimes national community towards the in certain Arab capitals accuse Obama and Sheikh Tamim Japanese and US leaders, their relationship, which is not in order for the youth to rebuild Arab people. Qatar wrongfully of financing and stressed the importance of pro- including President Barack only based on their immediate their countries on the basis of And what did the US president supporting terrorism. The leaders viding all Sunni and Shia parties Obama, have affirmed that our common interests but on their freedom, democracy and respect say? of America and Japan, two of the the opportunity to take part in leadership supports the rights of strategic interests and similar for human dignity.” He said: “Qatar is a strong most important countries in the the political process, which would people who are seeking freedom, stands with regard to terrorism Sheikh Tamim announced that partner and we have a long-term world, have testified against those strengthen the unity of the coun- equality, social justice, political and disapproval of those who Qatar was ready to help achieve partnership related to security, liars in Cairo and elsewhere. try and reduce sectarianism. participation and human rights. insult their people and humili- the goals of the Arab people in education, trade and scientific The American president also The Qatari and American Qatar is relentlessly fighting ate their dignity. this part of the world, where dif- research. Qatar is also a major said that Qatar and the United leaders addressed the Libyan and extremism and terrorism; there- Both the Qatari and American ferent forces are fighting. investor in the United States of States were both deeply con- Yemeni issues as well, and stressed fore, the mouths of liars and hyp- leaders agreed that the crises Doha also affirmed its stand on America.” cerned about the situation in that they were working with other ocrites who falsely accuse Qatar in the Middle East, Africa and regional and international initia- He emphasised that Qatar Syria and that there should be parties to find a solution to the two of improper acts must remain Ukraine can be solved not by tives to combat terrorism in all was a strong partner in the an initiative including all sections countries’ problems. shut. Workers, real estate firms fleecing citizens The public prosecutor’s BY MOZA ABDEL AZIZ about construction or maintenance. workers who have no knowledge truncated campaign ALISHAQ The nationality By the time half the work is done, of construction and maintenance BY JASSIM IBRAHIM FAKHRO you realise that it is not their pro- work. he cultural and economic of the workers fession, but it is too late since you The citizens suffer as they trust growth and other develop- have already paid them money. the promises of these companies hear, I see, I speak... help us to get to all those who Tment that Qatar is witnessing matters, as they Then a series of problems crops and workers, and they pay all the are corrupt... O dishonest individuals, the law will makes the citizen pay in many ways. up, such as the worker insisting that expenses because they are Qataris, “Icatch up with you eventually!” This process of change has negative you pay for the materials he needs, who have high salaries. It is as if These strong words were contained in an announcement as well as positive aspects. have different ways failing which you will not see him these salaries are like a cake that by the public prosecutor — anti-corruption office — just as On a daily basis, one faces a series again. You can then search for him should be shared with these workers. they are, without even an introduction. of problems. Some may accept this of swindling and or report him to the police and wait We hope the government approves We are well acquainted with such statements. Not even and cope with it, thinking that it for a long time to hear from them. measures to regulate the work of camels behave this way! Not surprisingly, there were many will develop their general awareness. committing fraud. The nationality of the workers these workers and introduces legis- tweets in reply to the announcement, so I will not say more However, many others suffer, espe- matters, as they have different ways lation to control the incredibly high than what has been already said. But I would like to broach cially in their daily encounters with You need to deal of swindling and committing fraud. prices they charge. the subject with some professionalism! people of diverse cultures. You need to deal with each national- This has to be done in a way that Does the public prosecutor, who represents law and order, Earlier, we depended on Arab and ity in a different way. Their differ- serves the citizens’ interests and think that an issue of this magnitude can be resolved through Asian workers to repair houses and with each nationality ent cultures are what everyone is without giving any extra benefits to a newspaper announcement, without giving people even an build villas, apartments and other talking about. the workers, who may not be able idea of what is expected from them? buildings. In those days there was in a different way. The citizens caution each other to earn even a quarter of what they Anything related to the public or society in general should trust in the deals. about dealing with a specific nation- earn here if they were working in be well thought of so that it doesn’t have negative conse- Most of the agreements, if not all, as if the real estate agent is a citizen ality or recommend monitoring their own countries. quences, and this is what happened with this truncated were finalised without any tension and the citizen is a resident! their work closely. They share sad We can ensure justice in a way campaign! or breach by any party. There was In the first week, the agent fills experiences daily, especially about that protects the citizen’s rights. The idea of public relations is to arrange matters accord- transparency in everything agreed the place with workers, and the fol- ing to plans and strategies to reach the desired goal. I tried upon by the two parties. lowing week he asks for the second to convince myself about this announcement, but I am sorry The worker could be almost done instalment, and once he gets it he to say that it was impossible. with his work, but he got his pay reduces the number of workers. What was the purpose behind the ad? What is the concept only after the job was finished, since From then on, one gets to hear of corruption in the mind of the public prosecutor? Any it was reserved by the other party excuses of all types about the pace public relations campaign must have a vision, mission and based on a verbal agreement, with of work. Of course, the main reason objectives, and proper implementation. Where does all this no written contract or blank cheque is that the agent is engaged in other stand in relation to reporting about corruption? involved. projects as well, and the person who What type of corruption are we talking about and at what But now, with the economic con- has hired him is forced to bear the level? Does the state have the environment to convince the dition of the citizen and the state situation as he has already paid sev- public of its seriousness or offer true examples in order to improving, the citizen has to pay eral instalments. stir the people’s conscience and motivate them to do their the worker’s expenses. In his own In this situation you either com- share? Frankly speaking, the stories we have heard are not country, the citizen is preyed upon plain to the police and wait for very encouraging. by Arab and Asian workers who justice or bear the financial and Did the public prosecutor hold a press conference to con- have swept the construction sector. psychological consequences. vey the desire for people’s participation in its war against No one knows how to deal with Then, you suddenly discover that corruption? There is no doubt that what happened was an them and how to safeguard their you had not included certain things inappropriate effort, because it wasn’t clear. financial rights as they may become in the contract, and you are asked to The result is that the reputations of both the state and victims of fraud or get involved in pay more for them, as they were not its auditing system were put at stake. Everything and disputes, which is unprecedented in specified in the original agreement. everyone is eventually linked to the state, individuals and the history of our state. In this case, you have to pay or the organisations. Since the citizen’s monthly whole work will be suspended. You This stated declaration created a confusion the state is not income is among the highest in cannot end the contract with the in need of, causing resentment among people, and this was the world, he contracts real estate company as you have already paid to be expected because the responsible person who directed companies to make sure that his several instalments. the publication of this announcement did not do his duty financial rights are protected and If you look for an alternative, you properly, since it was premature, and like a drop in the ocean, his house is completed in the short- will be in the same situation again. since it will not achieve the aims of the public prosecutor. est time possible. Meanwhile, those who hire indi- It would have been better to prepare the public by clari- But he gets trapped by this deci- vidual workers face a completely fying the idea through a well-planned public relations sion. He has to pay a huge amount different situation; that is another campaign. to this company, and on top of that story. There are a lot of companies who specialise in conveying receives false promises about the You cannot deal properly with ideas with style, which could have saved the reputation of quality of work and speedy delivery. these people as they are known for the state and the public prosecutor. Whether he likes it or not, he has swindling, fraud, and rising their Please give importance to specialisation! What has hap- to pay the first instalment, which is prices. In the beginning, you would Workers at a construction site in Doha. pened is good material for a case study for students of public about a quarter of the total amount, think that they know everything relations. WEDNESDAY 4 MARCH 2015 MIDDLE EAST 10 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com PLO to meet on future of Palestinian Authority Authority’s existence under threat after Israel cuts off key source of funds; 180,000 employees unpaid

RAMALLAH: The Palestinian lead- week found both the PLO and the PA “The PA cannot last in its current form Ahmed Majdalani, one of the 18 mem- Abbas has on occasion managed to wrong- ership meets today and tomorrow liable for a series of attacks in Jerusalem, — that is, without any real sovereignty bers of the PLO’s executive committee, its footed observers, most recently with his for crucial talks on the future of the ordering them to pay damages of more — because on the ground, Israel keeps most senior decision-making body. move to formally join the International Palestinian Authority, whose existence than $650m. dividing up the land and (building) settle- Cooperation between both sides’ secu- Criminal Court. is under threat after Israel cut off a key The mandate of the PA, which was set ments,” warned Mohammed Shtayyeh, a rity forces in the West Bank and eco- The Palestinians will file their first source of funds. up through the Oslo Accords in 1994 as former peace negotiator and senior mem- nomic agreements may be reconsidered complaint against Israel on April 1, the The Palestine Liberation Organisation an interim self-governing authority, has ber of Fatah, the dominant movement “despite strong pressure, especially from date they formally become members. (PLO), recognised as the sole legitimate long expired. And the presidential man- within the PLO. the Americans,” Majdalani warned. Last year’s war in Gaza and the vast representative of the Palestinian people date of Mahmoud Abbas, who also serves Dismantling the PA would force Israel In threatening to cut security coopera- task of reconstruction, which has hardly and their ultimate decision-making body, as head of the PLO and the ruling Fatah to send its forces back into all Palestinian tion, what the PLO wants is to “send a begun, will also be on the agenda, along- will mull an array of urgent economic and movement, expired in 2009. towns and cities and take full responsibil- message to the international community side the Israeli blockade in place since political issues. The Palestinian Legislative Council, ity for running civilian affairs and public to put pressure on Israel,” said Xavier 2006. Of most immediate concern at the or parliament, in which Hamas won a services in the West Bank, which is home Guignard, a political analyst based in Last year’s floundering intra-Palestin- two-day meeting in Ramallah will be majority during the last elections in 2006, to 2.8 million people. Ramallah. ian reconciliation agreement, which was the financial crisis facing the Palestinian has not held a full session since 2007 It would also have a major impact “It is saying: Israel is denying us ¤100m supposed to end years of enmity between Authority (PA). For the past two months, when the Islamist movement forced its on Gaza despite Israel’s withdrawal in of revenue each month, but it will cost Hamas and Fatah, will also be discussed. Israel has withheld hundreds of millions Fatah rivals out of Gaza. Like in previ- 2005. Although the territory of 1.8 mil- the world much more dearly if we dis- Formed in 1964, the PLO includes of dollars in tax revenue owed to the PA, ous crises, the PA has threatened to halt lion people is technically managed by solve,” he said, referring to the inevitable Fatah and other Palestinian factions but the interim governing body which rules security coordination with Israel in the the Ramallah-based unity government, security nightmare for Israel. not Hamas or Islamic Jihad. the West Bank, after the Palestinians West Bank, and even to dissolve itself, in practice most of the administration Ending security cooperation is “a A decade later, it was recognised by the moved to join the International Criminal in a move which has sparked concern in is still run by Hamas, which would not threat that has often been brandished, UN as “sole legitimate representative of Court to sue Israel for alleged war crimes. both Washington and Europe. accept any Israeli involvement. but never carried through,” he said, add- the Palestinian people” — who number The cash crunch has left the PA unable Such a decision can only be taken by Before reaching a decision over its ing: “We could still be surprised.” nearly 9 million people across the West to pay 180,000 employees. the 130 members of the PLO’s central relations with Israel, the matter must Since the Palestinians won the rank Bank, Gaza and the diaspora. In another blow, a New York court last council who meet this week in Ramallah. be examined in depth by the PLO, said of UN observer state in November 2012, AFP

UN moves to slap curbs Three British plane spotters on South Sudan factions detained in UAE

UNITED NATIONS,: The targeted for UN sanctions. LONDON: Three British men UN Security Council yesterday These include leaders of offi- are being detained in the UAE unanimously adopted a resolu- cials who obstruct peace talks, on national security grounds tion to slap sanctions on South impede humanitarian aid deliv- after being arrested while plane Sudan’s warring factions, ratch- eries, recruit child soldiers or spotting, their relatives said eting up pressure as a deadline attack UN peacekeepers. The yesterday. loomed to reach a peace deal. resolution raises the possibility Valerie Clitheroe said her hus- Drafted by the United States, of imposing an arms embargo on band Conrad, 53, and his friend the resolution sets up a sanctions South Sudan, a measure strongly Gary Cooper, 45, are being held committee which would submit backed by European countries with their former work colleague, to the council the names of those despite concerns that the ban Neil Munro, who lives and works responsible for blocking peace could penalize Kiir’s forces more in the UAE. efforts, and who should be pun- than the rebel fighters. She said they were taking notes ished with a global travel ban and Criticising the move, South of plane numbers at Fujairah air- assets freeze. Sudan’s Ambassador Francis port on February 21 when they Regional mediators have given Deng urged the council to refrain were arrested. The Foreign Office South Sudan’s President Salva from taking the next step and in London confirmed the arrests Kiir and rebel chief Riek Machar actually imposing sanctions, argu- in a brief statement. “We can con- until tomorrow to reach a final ing that the punitive measures firm the arrest of three British deal to end 14 months of war that would not help bring about peace. nationals in Dubai on February have killed tens of thousands of “What the president and the gov- 22. We are providing consular people. ernment of South Sudan need is assistance at this time,” it said. US Ambassador Samantha encouragement and support, not Damaged buildings are seen at Al Amriya frontline in Aleppo yesterday. Valerie Clitheroe told BBC Power told the council that the condemnation,” said Deng. radio she had spoken to her hus- resolution would give African Fighting has raged in South band on the telephone and said mediators leverage in their push Sudan despite several peace Syrian rebels reject UN truce plan “he seems very distressed, very for agreement by making clear deals that have never been imple- upset that this has happened — that “those who frustrate peace mented in what UN peacekeep- they’re just very scared in there”. must begin to pay the price.” ing chief Herve Ladsous described ISTANBUL: Syrian rebels arrived in Aleppo yesterday, an Mistura initiative,” said Osama “I’m very concerned that it has The resolution was approved by last week as “serious failure of dealt a blow to a UN envoy’s official from the team said. Abo Zayd, a legal consultant for dragged on this long, we’re in our all 15 council members, includ- leadership.” proposal for a ceasefire in the Military and political opposi- Syrian armed groups. Last month 10th day now and we haven’t had ing veto-wielding member China, The latest round of talks in northern city of Aleppo as his tion groups in Aleppo have refused an insurgent group criticised de any information.” which had criticized the move as Addis Ababa focused on reach- team headed there yesterday, to meet with de Mistura, a state- Mistura as “biased” and said it Cooper’s son, Adam, told the unhelpful at a time when the ing a final deal that includes a saying the plan would only ben- ment from armed opposition and would not meet him. same programme that the three warring factions were involved transitional unity government to efit the Syrian government at civic groups in the Aleppo gover- “The whole de Mistura thing men had already had a hearing and in complicated negotiations. be put in place no later than July the expense of the opposition. norate said. The commission says has been a waste of time. It has the authorities were in the proc- Diplomats said the move 9. Opening a face-to-face meet- UN Syria envoy Staffan de it represents all opposition groups been a way of the international ess of transferring the case to the toward sanctions won the back- ing of South Sudan’s leaders in Mistura has been trying to broker except Nusra Front and the ultra community saying they are doing capital Abu Dhabi. ing of all council members after Addis Ababa earlier, Ethiopian a truce in the city, which is at the hardline offshoot Islamic State. something when actually it means Both Cooper and Clitheroe “said African governments, deeply frus- Prime Minister Hailemariam forefront of clashes between pro- The statement, from the newly- nothing,” said Adib Shishakly, a that they weren’t taking photos trated with the lack of progress in Desalegn warned that “very lit- government forces and a range of formed Aleppo Revolutionary representative of the Western- because they were aware that they peace talks, threw their support tle time remains” and that “the insurgents, including Islamist bri- Commission, said its representa- backed Syrian National Coalition could find themselves in trouble”, behind the measure. region is frustrated” with the lack gades, Al Qaeda’s hardline Syria tives would only meet with UN to the Gulf. he said. “But now we’ve been told Russian envoy Pyotr Ilyichev of progress. wing Nusra Front and Western- officials if the ceasefire eventually “You cannot send a UN envoy that it’s been escalated from that expressed skepticism, saying More than 1.5 million people backed units. led to the exit of President Bashar without political backing of the to a national security issue.” AFP that the move could be “hasty” have been displaced in the con- De Mistura has said Damascus Al Assad and his inner circle as big players in the UN Security and that sanctions could backfire flict and 2.5 million are in dire has expressed willingness for a well as prosecution of individuals Council. De Mistura does not Rival Libyan forces in the effort to bring peace. The need of food aid in the country, six-week truce in the city but the for war crimes. have the tools,” he said adding resolution states that those who which declared independence Syrian military also launched a “The opposition brigades do that the envoy had lost credibility carry out air strikes “threaten the peace, security and from Sudan in 2011. major offensive there last month. not find a clear plan to bring from the opposition’s perspective. stability of South Sudan” could be AFP De Mistura’s representatives peace in Aleppo within the de REUTERS ahead of talks

BENGHAZI: Rival Libyan forces carried out tit-for-tat air strikes on oil terminals and an airport yesterday, escalat- Jihadists slow ing their battle for control of Egyptian court defers the oil-producing country days Tikrit advance before United Nations peace talks are to resume in Morocco. KIRKUK: Iraqi forces closed parliamentary polls The United Nations called for in on Tikrit yesterday, their the hostilities to end in prepara- progress slowed by jihadist tion for the negotiations, which snipers and booby traps, on the CAIRO: An Egyptian court districts in an election law which it hopes will end the war raging second day of Baghdad’s largest yesterday deferred a long- heralded a likely delay to the poll. between Libya’s two rival govern- operation yet against IS. awaited parliamentary election The first phase of voting was due ments and their armed forces. The government has mobilised due in March indefinitely after to begin on March 22. Oil installations and key infra- a 30,000-strong force for the push another court declared the elec- The spokesman for the High structure are prime targets in to retake Tikrit made up of Shia tion law’s provision on voting Election Committee, which said the conflict, which pits Prime militiamen and Sunni tribes- districts as unconstitutional, on Sunday that it was working on Minister Abdullah Al Thinni’s men as well as troops and police. judicial sources said. a new timetable, told Reuters yes- internationally recognised gov- Outnumbered and outgunned, Egypt has been without a par- terday that a new date would be set ernment against Libya Dawn, the the jihadists who have held Tikrit liament since June 2012, when a after the law had been amended. group which took Tripoli last year since June 2014 have been resort- court dissolved the democratically Sisi directed his government to and set up its own administration. ing to guerrilla tactics to disrupt elected main chamber, reversing change the law within one month. A warplane belonging to forces the government’s advance. a major accomplishment of the Analysts say it could be several allied to Libya Dawn bombed the “They are using urban warfare 2011 uprising that toppled auto- months before elections were oil ports of Ras Lanuf and Es and snipers, so we are advancing crat Hosni Mubarak. held. According to one expert, Sidra, causing only minor dam- in a cautious and delicate way, This delay prolongs a period Sunday’s ruling requires the gov- age. Warplanes also hit Maitiga, and we need more time,” a lieu- in which President Abdel Fattah ernment to merge or create new Tripoli’s airport, Air Force com- tenant general on the ground said. Al Sisi has wielded sole legisla- voting districts so that each con- mander Saqir El-Jaroshi said, and Iraqi forces are moving on Tikrit tive authority and slows Egypt’s tains an equal number of voters. there were plans to carry out air from three directions, with units progress towards democracy since “If we assume the legal com- strikes on the airport of port city targeting the towns of Al Alam and its first freely elected president mittee finishes this work within Misrata, which is also a base of Ad Dawr to the north and south, was ousted by the army in 2013. one month, a new period for nom- Libya Dawn. while another large contingent The decision by Egypt’s inations will have to be opened, Jaroshi said the strikes were drives on the city from the east. Administrative Court came as which will delay us about three retaliation for Tripoli forces “We are close to Ad-Dawr, but Iraqi security forces and Shia fighters gather on the outskirts of Salahuddin expected after a ruling on Sunday months,” Hassan Nafaa, a profes- bombing Zintan, a town loyal to Daesh is still in the centre,” the province yesterday. by the Supreme Constitutional sor of political science at Cairo Thinni’s government. senior officer said. REUTERS Court against an article on voting University, said. REUTERS REUTERS WEDNESDAY 4 MARCH 2015 EUROPE / AMERICAS www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 11

Bereaved to OSCE to monitor truce violation: Kiev view MH17 Three dead, nine hurt in shelling wreckage at KIEV: The leaders of Ukraine, start with 10 flashpoints, includ- Russia, France and Germany ing the Donetsk airport area Dutch base have agreed to send observ- which fell to the pro-Russian sep- ers to flashpoint sites in east- aratists in January after months GILZE-RIJEN AIRBASE: ern Ukraine as sporadic of deadly combat. The first of around 500 rela- deadly attacks continue to rat- The offices of Hollande, Merkel, tives of those killed in the tle a shaky truce, Kiev said and Putin called for greater OSCE shooting down of Malaysia yesterday. involvement and suggested that Airlines flight MH17 over Ukraine’s Foreign Minister the monitoring mission publish a Ukraine visited the wreck- Pavlo Klimkin described the situ- daily report on its observations. age at a Dutch airbase yes- ation on the ground as “very diffi- Merkel’s spokesman Steffen terday, investigators said. cult and tense”, three weeks after Seibert said the leaders “agreed The wreckage was brought a peace roadmap was hammered that the OSCE should play a more to the Gilze-Rijen base in the out in Minsk. important role in monitoring the southern Netherlands late last Kiev’s military spokesman ceasefire and the withdrawal of year as part of a probe into what Andriy Lysenko said three sol- weapons.” exactly shot down the Boeing diers had been killed and nine The French presidency noted 777 in July, killing all 298 people injured in the past 24 hours, but “progress” in the implementa- on board. Around two-thirds of did not say where. tion of the ceasefire but said that those killed were Dutch, while Since the February 12 truce, the situation in eastern Ukraine citizens from a total of 11 coun- Ukrainian President Petro — where more than 6,000 people tries died in the disaster. Poroshenko, Russian President have died since April — needed Pieces of the plane’s fuselage Vladimir Putin, German to be improved. The Kremlin also have been laid out in hangars Chancellor Angela Merkel and backed “rigorous adherence to the at the base where they can be French President Francois ceasefire and a continuation of the viewed by the bereaved until Hollande have spoken a number of pullback of heavy weapons”. An armed man with the separatist self-proclaimed Donetsk People’s Republic army walks outside the destroyed Saturday and by journalists times on shoring up the ceasefire, Seibert said another meeting on terminal of Donetsk airport yesterday. on Tuesday. Some 50 relatives including implementation of one Ukraine would be held on Friday saw the trucks carrying the of the key conditions — the with- in Berlin at the level of senior offi- and over one million displaced. despite a declared ceasefire,” verification of withdrawals”. wreckage arrive at the base in drawal of heavy weapons from the cials. Kiev said the three leaders While fighting has eased since Klimkin said on a visit to Tokyo. To confirm a definite pullback, December, but this is the first frontline. also asked Putin to free Ukrainian the ceasefire, Kiev said on Monday “There was always a problem of the mission would need “baseline time they can see the plane In a readout of their lat- pilot Nadiya Savchenko, who is on that rebels shelled the village of lack of trust in relations between information” on the types, num- parts up close. est conversation issued by the hunger strike in a Moscow jail, Pisky near the bombed-out shell Ukraine and Russia... we can’t bers, and locations of the weapons “There are about 500 peo- Ukrainian presidency, the four where she is being held on charges of Donetsk airport overnight, and rely on any kinds of agreements and “full and unfettered access” ple coming, not only from the leaders behind the ceasefire “sup- of involvement in the killing of also attacked the nearby villages between us and Russians.” to areas supposedly cleared of the Netherlands but also from ported Ukraine’s suggestion to two Russian reporters. of Avdiivka and Opytne. The OSCE, which is tasked guns. other countries,” said Sara send monitors to all locations of The UN said on Monday there Another army spokesman with monitoring the ceasefire, Both sides claim to be mov- Vernooij of the Dutch Safety ceasefire violations”. had been “merciless devastation reported combat near the vil- has been reporting almost daily ing back their armour from the Board (OVV), which is leading The intensified monitoring by of civilian lives and infrastruc- lage of Sokolnyki in the Lugansk on movements of weapons in the frontline but Kiev has accused the the probe into the crash. the Organisation for Security ture” in Ukraine and that more region. “The situation on the east, but conceded Monday it was rebels of merely shuffling weapons Ukraine and the West and Cooperation in Europe would than 6,000 people had been killed ground is very difficult and tense “not yet in a position to provide around the frontline. AFP accuse Russia of supplying pro-Kremlin insurgents with the missile that downed the jet. But Moscow and the sepa- ratists deny responsibility and have instead pointed the finger at Kiev. The Dutch are leading Deputy PM joins thousands to pay respects to Putin critic international efforts towards a criminal prosecution, if the MOSCOW: Thousands of mourners country’s political leadership” of ordering a Ordinary Russians were joined by gov- although I know that this is anything but culprits can be identified. turned out yesterday to pay a last hom- hit on Nemtsov. Putin himself has branded ernment officials and dignitaries includ- easy,” she said. International investiga- age to slain Russian opposition leader the killing a provocation and his spokes- ing Deputy Prime Minister Arkady Many mourners blamed Putin for the tors have already carried out Boris Nemtsov, gunned down near the man said of Navalny’s charge: “I am not Dvorkovich, former president Boris murder, saying the Kremlin — locked in a preliminary investigation Kremlin in the most stunning assassina- going to comment on such lunacy.” Yeltsin’s widow Naina and former finance a bitter confrontation with the West over of the wreckage. The three- tion of Vladimir Putin’s rule. Moscow has pledged a full investigation minister Alexei Kudrin. Former British the Ukraine conflict — whipped up hatred dimensional reconstruction of Crowds thronged the Russian capital as speculation swirls about who was behind prime minister John Major and Lithuanian against dissenters. “We came because we part of the aircraft will begin to mourn the 55-year-old former deputy the assassination. Foreign Minister Linas Linkevicius were feel ashamed of our country, of our people, later this month, focusing prime minister, a longtime Putin critic and Clutching flowers and candles, mourners among foreign dignitaries to attend. that we let such a thing happen,” said one on the cockpit and business anti-corruption crusader who was laid to formed a huge queue outside the Andrei Putin, who was hosting the authoritarian mourner, Dmitry Afanasyev. class section. A preliminary rest at a Moscow cemetery. Sakharov rights centre in central Moscow leader of Belarus, Alexander Lukashenko, “Putin is to blame. But we are too.” report in September, which The funeral caused a fresh spat between where Nemtsov’s body lay in state. did not attend the funeral at Moscow’s A journalist and Nemtsov ally, Vladimir apportioned no blame, said Russia and the European Union, which As Bach’s St Matthew Passion played, prestigious Troekurovskoe cemetery. Kara-Murza, wept as he said friends had the plane “broke up in the air condemned what it called “arbitrary” bans well-wishers filed past the flower-covered In Berlin, German Chancellor Angela sought to convince the politician to leave probably as the result of struc- after Russia blocked prominent figures coffin, many crossing themselves and weep- Merkel reiterated calls for the perpetra- the country but he had refused. tural damage caused by a large from Poland and Latvia from attending. ing. Nemtsov’s mother Dina Eidman, who tors to be brought to justice. “And I hope “We witnessed how bullets had turned number of high-energy objects Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny turned 87 yesterday, his children, widow, — and we will work toward this — that into arguments in a dispute with oppo- that penetrated the aircraft was also unable to attend as he is behind and former partners and friends stood by those who think differently in Russia have nents,” Kudrin said at the coffin. “Boris, from outside”. AFP bars, but speaking from jail he accused “the the casket. an opportunity to articulate their thoughts, we are with you.” AFP

A welcoming smile Snowden ready Venezuela unveils new US visa plan to return to US, CARACAS: Venezuela began requiring visas for US travellers says lawyer to the country, implementing a measure announced by President MOSCOW: Edward Snowden, Nicolas Maduro in retaliation for the fugitive whistleblower who American “meddling.” has been given refuge in Russia, In a notice published in the gov- is willing to return to the United ernment’s official gazette three States if he is given a fair trial, days after Maduro denounced the his lawyer said yesterday. United States in a fiery speech, the “He is thinking about it. He interior and foreign ministries said has a desire to return and we are the US was now “excluded from the doing everything we can to make it list of countries benefitting from happen,” Anatoly Kucherena, the the non-immigrant visa waiver.” Russian lawyer who represents the Maduro has said American former National Security Agency visitors should pay the same fee contractor, told a news conference. Venezuelans pay to travel to the Snowden was given political United States — between $160 asylum in Russia in the summer and $190, depending on the type of 2013 after the US revoked his of application. The bulletin also passport. He now leads a reclusive put the official seal on Maduro’s The inside view of Santo Hugo Chavez del 23 chapel at 23 de Enero life there. announcement that he was banning community in Caracas. Tomorrow marks the second anniversary of “With a group of lawyers from a list of US “terrorists” from vis- Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez’s death. other countries, we are working iting Venezuela, including former on the question of his return to president George W Bush and his America,” Kucherena said. vice president Dick Cheney, as well Venezuela gives US 15 “Snowden is ready to return to as Hispanic American lawmakers the States, but on the condition Marco Rubio, Bob Menendez and that he is given a guarantee of a Ileana Ros-Lehtinen. days on embassy staff cut legal and impartial trial,” he said. Those on the list “have commit- The lawyer said Snowden had so ted terrorist acts and grave human far only received a guarantee from rights violations,” said the notice. CARACAS: Venezuela is giv- measures. “Regarding the reduc- the US Attorney General that he In his speech on Saturday, ing the United States 15 days tion to 17 staff, he was given a will not face the death penalty. Maduro accused the US of “con- to present plans to slash the period of 15 days to present a He said that Snowden is able spiracies” against his socialist staff of the American embassy plan,” said the foreign minister. to travel outside Russia since he government and lashed out with a in Caracas, Foreign Minister Calling for “equal terms has a three-year Russian resi- series of retaliatory measures. Delcy Rodriguez said. between states,” Maduro said dency permit, but “I suspect that Tensions have been growing The move came after the United States must not have as soon as he leaves Russia, he will between the two countries since Venezuelan President Nicolas more diplomats in Caracas than be taken to the US embassy.” Maduro said on February 12 that Maduro lashed out Saturday at Venezuela has in Washington — Kucherena’s comments came a US-backed coup plot against him US “conspiracies” against his 17. He also announced plans to at a presser where he presented had been disrupted — a claim the socialist government and ordered charge US citizens the same visa a thriller loosely based on his United States dismissed as “base- his foreign ministry to reduce fee that Venezuelans pay to visit encounters with Snowden. less and false.” the number of officials at the the United States. Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II (left) smiles as she stands with Angelica US filmmaker Oliver Stone has Venezuelan security forces American embassy from 100 to 17. Like his late mentor Hugo Rivera, wife of Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto, during a bought the rights to the book as arrested the opposition mayor of Rodriguez told journalists she Chavez, Maduro regularly Ceremonial Welcome at Horse Guards Parade in central London yes- he prepares to shoot a biopic about Caracas on charges of conspiring to had a “cordial” meeting with the denounces alleged coup plots and terday, the first day of the President’s three-day state visit to Britain. Snowden starring Joseph Gordon- overthrow the government, a move top US diplomat in Caracas, Lee assassination attempts against Levitt. AFP condemned by Washington. AFP McClenny, to discuss the new him. AFP WEDNESDAY 4 MARCH 2015 12 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com ASIA / AFRICA

2,000 homeless after blaze in Manila slum area Nigeria troops China probes ‘kill’ 73 Boko Haram fighters second military KANO: Nigerian troops backed by civilian vigilantes yesterday claimed to have killed more than 70 Boko Haram fighters in a foiled attack to capture the officer for graft strategic town of Konduga near Maiduguri. A would-be suicide bomber was shot and killed before he could President Xi widens campaign ram his explosives-laden car into a military checkpoint in the town BEIJING: China is investigat- Commission, in charge of the during the attack on Monday, wit- ing a second former top military world’s largest armed force of nesses said. officer on suspicion of corruption, around 2.3 million personnel, for Around 150 Boko Haram fight- two independent sources said, as more than a decade, having risen ers entered the fishing town with President Xi Jinping widens his through the ranks after joining a large herd of cattle pretending campaign against deep-rooted the army in 1961, according to his to be herders and opened fire graft in the country. official biography. on troops stationed in the town, Guo Boxiong, 72, was a vice In 2006 he visited the United leading to a six-hour gun battle. chairman of the powerful Central States and met then-defence “At the last count 73 Boko Military Commission until he secretary Donald Rumsfeld. The Haram gunmen were killed in the stepped down in 2012. Another Chinese government has fuelled foiled attack,” a civilian vigilante, former vice chairman, Xu Caihou, speculation about his fate with a Butari Mala, said. was put under investigation last commentary carried on the web- The attack happened at about year for corruption. site of the Communist Party’s 7am (0600 GMT) and the gun- Before their retirement, the men People’s Daily late on Monday, men abandoned the cattle as they had been two of China’s top mili- headlined: “You know what signal A view of burnt houses after a fire that razed a slum area in Parola compound in Tondo district, Manila, yes- approached a military post, said tary officers who served together the fall of Guo Zhenggang sends”. terday. According to arson investigators from the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), more than 2,000 families Konduga resident, Abba Kaka. under Xi’s predecessor, Hu Jintao. It was widely picked up by other were rendered homeless by a blaze that swept through some 1,500 houses at a shanty town. AFP Xi was also a vice chairman with Chinese media. “When it comes to Guo and Xu from 2010-2012, before fighting corruption in the military, he became head of the party and the best part of the show is yet military commission chief. to come,” the commentary said, Serving and retired military prompting a flurry of responses on officers have said graft in the Weibo, China’s answer to Twitter, armed forces is so pervasive it that the father was the real target. African leaders urge Ebola ‘Marshall Plan’ could undermine China’s ability The government has developed to wage war. In one case, a senior a habit of dropping hints in state BRUSSELS: Leaders of the in plans and strategies for eco- gross domestic product this year, 900 a week to 100, but that cases officer has been accused of mak- media about who is in trouble west African countries worst nomic recovery,” Sirleaf told the according to World Bank estimates. appeared to be climbing back up ing millions of dollars from selling before formal announcements are hit by Ebola urged the world EU-backed conference. “There is In addition, their health sectors in the coastal regions of Sierra hundreds of military positions. made. Beijing has announced inves- yesterday to back a “Marshall no doubt this will require signifi- have been partially wiped out by Leone and Guinea. The government announced tigations into more than a dozen Plan” to help them stamp out cant resources, even a Marshall the epidemic or forced to divert “The purpose of this confer- an investigation into Guo’s son, senior military officials on serious the disease and rebuild their Plan,” she said, referring to the resources to fighting Ebola at ence is getting to zero” in terms Guo Zhenggang, a deputy politi- corruption charges, 14 of them on shattered economies. US-led aid plan that rebuilt the expense of other diseases like of human cases, an EU official cal commissar of the military in Monday, including Guo’s son. Many Liberian President Ellen Europe after World War II. measles, malaria and AIDS. involved in the talks said sepa- the eastern province of Zhejiang, of those implicated have ties to the Johnson Sirleaf, Sierra Leone Conde also underlined the need The conference gathered the rately, but added: “The curve is on Monday. He had just been scandal involving Xu. President Ernest Bai Koroma and for a “Marshall Plan”, telling a three African leaders plus scores of flattening out, but definitely it is promoted to a major general in The news comes shortly before Guinean President Alpha Conde press conference that it was as delegations including the European not at zero.” January. the annual meeting of China’s pressed the need for recovery at if the region is “coming out of a Union, China, the United States, Officials pointed to the fact that “Guo Boxiong himself is in parliament, the National People’s an international conference in war” with its economy and public Cuba and Australia, plus the United Nigeria, Senegal and Mali have all trouble and is being investigated,” Congress, which opens tomorrow. Brussels as the number of new services decimated. Nations, the World Bank and other managed to show that Ebola cases a source with ties to the military Corruption is likely to be a major cases slows. The IMF in Washington international organisations. can be reduced to zero after they said. “The announcement about his talking point. More than 9,700 people have approved on Monday funding and The African leaders repeated a too were hit by the virus. son was a message” to the public The Defence Ministry said died of the disease since the west debt relief worth about $187m for pledge made last month to eradi- Countries around the world about the father’s probe, the source its efforts were paying off. “The African epidemic emerged in Sierra Leone for coming years, cate the disease by mid-April. “We have so far pledged $4.9bn to fight added, without elaborating. intense publicity surrounding southern Guinea in December with $85m of that to be disbursed must guard against complacency. Ebola, with $2.4bn disbursed until A second source with ties to the these measures lets us see ... the 2013, with nearly 24,000 people immediately. The charity Oxfam There will not be total victory until now, officials said. military confirmed that Guo was military’s iron-handed determi- infected, according to the World has previously made similar calls we get to” zero cases, Koroma said. Another $400m will have to be being investigated, but provided nation to fight corruption,” it said, Health Organisation. for a Marshall Plan-type effort to “We must be ever-ready to aggres- disbursed quickly in order to erad- no other details. China’s Defence dismissing what it called “certain “The impact of Ebola on our help stricken west Africa. sively combat this outbreak.” icate the disease, Claus Haugaard Ministry did not respond to a doubting voices on the Internet” economies has been profound. The countries at the centre of UN Ebola envoy David Nabarro Sorensen, a senior official with request for comment. that the campaign is not serious. The most important long-term the Ebola epidemic are forecast to said that the number of new the European Commission, the Guo sat on the Central Military REUTERS response to Ebola therefore rests lose 12 percent of their combined cases had declined from around EU executive, said. AFP

Myanmar education protest FBI team to help Australians to be moved to probe murder Indonesia execution site

of US blogger in DENPASAR: Two Australian were convicted of trying to drug smugglers on death row smuggle heroin out of Indonesia Bangladesh in Indonesia will be trans- in 2005 and sentenced to death ferred today from their jail on the following year. They recently DHAKA: The United States is Bali to an island off Java where lost their appeals for presiden- sending a team of federal inves- they will be put to death, an tial clemency. tigators to Bangladesh to help official said. They are among a group of 10 probe the murder of a visiting Andrew Chan and Myuran drug convicts expected to face American blogger by suspected Sukumaran, the ringleaders of a firing squad in the upcoming Islamist militants, Dhaka police the so-called “Bali Nine” drug batch of executions. Officials have said yesterday. trafficking gang, will be flown on not confirmed the nationalities of Avijit Roy, known for his anti- a military aircraft, with a sec- the others, although convicts from religious blog posts and books ond plane escorting them, said France, Brazil and the Philippines including the best-selling The Momock Bambang Samiarso, are among those who recently Virus of Faith, was hacked to death head of the Bali prosecutor’s lost their appeals for presidential with a machete as he returned office. clemency. home from a book fair with his Officials are yet to announce a Australia, Brazil and France Police block the students at Letpadan, Bago division, in Myanmar, yesterday. Students from universities across wife in Dhaka last Thursday. date for their executions, but the have been piling diplomatic pres- Myanmar are protesting against ‘National Education Bill’ which is due to be passed by parliament. Students The family of the 43-year- transfer indicates it is imminent. sure on Jakarta, but President have pledged to continue the protest marches until they get the solutions for the 11-points they demanded old US citizen has accused Their lawyers said that push- Joko Widodo has been a vocal Bangladeshi authorities of fail- ing ahead with the transfer and supporter of the death penalty for from the quadripartite talks. ing to do enough to protect him executions would amount to a drug traffickers, saying Indonesia after he received death threats “miscarriage of justice” as legal is facing an “emergency” due to for his anti-religious writing. challenges are still ongoing. rising narcotics use. Bangladesh’s elite security force The men, in their early 30s, AFP on Monday arrested radical UN urges release of Tamil prisoners Islamist Farabi Shafiur Rahman, the chief suspect in the murder, who they say sent Roy several COLOMBO: A top United in the short term to address issues alleged war crimes by forces death threats. Nations official urged Sri regarding land, detentions, disap- under the command of former A Federal Bureau of North Korea readying for Lanka’s new government yes- pearances, and the military posture president Mahinda Rajapakse. Investigation (FBI) team will terday to immediately release in civilian areas,” Feltman said. The UN has given more time to arrive in Dhaka later this week, Tamil detainees and demili- Tamils complain that thousands the new government to establish Dhaka Metropolitan Police medium-range missile test tarise former conflict areas to of their loved ones have gone miss- a credible domestic mechanism spokesman Monirul Islam said. build confidence ahead of a fresh ing while hundreds are thought to to probe allegations that up to “They will mainly sit with local SEOUL: North Korea may be launchers in March last year probe into alleged war crimes. be in custody without trial. The 40,000 Tamil civilians were killed investigation agency,” he said. readying to test fire a medium- to fire two Rodong-class mis- Jeffrey Feltman, the UN’s military still occupies large extents by Rajapakse’s troops. The United States has con- range missile to underscore its siles with a maximum range of under secretary general for politi- of land belonging to Tamils. While moderate Tamils have demned Roy’s killing as a “shock- anger over joint US-South Korea 1,000km-1,500km, the source said. cal affairs, said the government of “There is a trust deficit that the generally accepted the approach ing act of violence” and an assault military drills that began this That test was timed to coincide President Maithripala Sirisena, Sri Lankans themselves must over- of the new government, hardliners on free speech. A court yesterday week, a report said yesterday. with US President Barack Obama which came to power earlier this come,” Feltman told reporters in want an international investiga- remanded Farabi in custody for 10 Mobile launchers used for hosting a landmark Japan-South year, should make concessions to Colombo at the end of a four-day tion. “In Jaffna, I heard scepti- days for questioning. Rodong missiles have been deployed Korea summit to discuss joint win the trust of minority Tamils visit for talks with local leaders. cism,” Feltman said referring to “He has confessed that he at a North Korean missile base security concerns in the face of who remain largely sceptical But he added that Sirisena’s residents in the Tamil heartland threatened Avijit Roy... Intense north of Pyongyang, South Korea’s Pyongyang’s nuclear threat. about his intentions. government had the support of in the island’s north. “The govern- interrogation of Farabi could lead Yonhap news agency reported, The South’s defence ministry He said the UN was encouraged the international community, ment must find short-term steps to important clues,” Islam said. citing military sources. “We’ve refused to confirm the Yonhap by the new government’s com- unlike the previous administra- to overcome that scepticism.” Roy, the founder of the Mukto- detected signs that North Korea report, but said it was monitoring mitment to ethnic reconciliation tion, to ensure reconciliation and He said military deployments Mona (free mind) blog, was born has deployed two transporter erec- the situation. North Korea fired and accountability for the alleged lasting peace six years after the should not affect civilian life, in Bangladesh to a family of schol- tor launchers since a few days back two short-range Scud missiles atrocities committed in the final end of a bitter war. a long standing demand of the ars but moved to Atlanta in the in its Rodong missile station in into the sea off its east coast on stages of a separatist war that Feltman arrived in Sri Lanka international community which southern US state of Georgia North Pyongyang Province,” one Monday as South Korea kicked ended in May 2009. “I have urged as the UN Human Rights Council has called for de-militarisation of around 15 years ago. source was quoted as saying. of a series of joint military drills. government leaders to take steps delayed releasing a report on the former war zone. AFP AFP North Korea used similar AFP WEDNESDAY 4 MARCH 2015 PAKISTAN / AFGHANISTAN www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 13 Nuclear rivals hold first talks in a year Foreign Secretaries of India and Pakistan ‘agree to work together to narrow differences’

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and concerns on cross-border ter- of a resumption of long-stalled India held their first high-level rorism including on the Mumbai talks. talks for nearly a year yester- (attacks). We agreed that ensur- But India abruptly cancelled day, with a senior Indian dip- ing peace and tranquility on the a planned round of dialogue lomat hailing the meeting in border was vital.” between foreign secretaries in Islamabad as “positive and The attacks on Mumbai in Delhi in August after Pakistan’s constructive”. 2008, blamed on Pakistan-based high commissioner met Kashmiri Indian Foreign Secretary militants, have been a peren- separatists. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar is nial thorn in relations in recent The meeting with pro-inde- visiting Pakistan for the first years. pendence leaders in the Indian- senior-level dialogue between the India has been infuriated at administered part of the disputed nuclear-armed rivals since their Pakistan’s failure to either extra- Himalayan territory infuriated prime ministers met in New Delhi dite or prosecute effectively the New Delhi but Pakistan defended last May. alleged masterminds of the car- it as a “longstanding practice”. Relations between the two nage, which left 166 people dead. Pakistan and India, who have countries, always fraught, Jaishankar’s trip is part of a fought two of their three wars soured further last August amid tour that also includes Bhutan, over Kashmir, have traded blame increased firing along their bor- Bangladesh and Afghanistan. for an upsurge in firing and shell- ders and a row over a Pakistani But Pakistan-India issues, which ing which started in October. diplomat meeting Kashmiri tend to dominate regional poli- Both Modi and Sharif separatists. tics, were clearly prominent on attended a summit of the South Jaishankar, India’s top official the agenda. Asian Association for Regional for foreign affairs, met his coun- He is also due to meet Prime Cooperation bloc in November terpart Aizaz Ahmed Chaudhry Minister Nawaz Sharif as well but did not hold one-on-one talks. and said afterwards talks were as the de facto foreign minister The cricket World Cup brought held “in a very positive and con- Sartaj Aziz, according to Pakistani an unexpected opportunity for a structive atmosphere”. state media. thaw, with Modi phoning Sharif “We agreed to work together to Indian Prime Minister last month to wish his team well find common ground and narrow Narendra Modi’s surprise move in the tournament. Jaishankar’s our differences,” he told reporters. to invite Sharif to his swearing-in visit was announced shortly after- Indian Foreign Secretary Subrahmanyan Jaishankar (left) with Pakistani counterpart Aizaz Ahmed Chaudhry at “I reiterated our known ceremony last May spurred hopes wards. AFP the Foreign Ministry in Islamabad yesterday.

Waiting for relief School massacre victims to be granted gallantry awards ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is to A moratorium on executions Action Plan (NAP) the provincial confer posthumous gallantry in terror cases was lifted and the governments have been directed awards on students, teachers constitution was amended to set up to arrest illegal Afghans and and other staff members killed military courts for speedy trial of deport them immediately. in a Taliban massacre at a terrorism cases. Twenty-four peo- “It has been clearly conveyed school, officials said yesterday. ple have been hanged since execu- to Afghan authorities that Taliban gunmen murdered tions were restarted in December. around all the three million more than 150 people, most of Meanwhile, Pakistan has refugees will be repatriated by them students, during an attack deported around 2,000 unregis- December 2015, and meanwhile at the Army Public School in the tered Afghans after the attack on no action will be taken against northwestern city of Peshawar in Army Public School in Peshawar the registered refugees,” the December last year. in December 2014. “Pakistani sources said, adding, “it has also A statement from Prime authorities have clearly conveyed been conveyed that action is only Minister Nawaz Sharif’s office to the Afghan government that being taken against those Afghan said he had asked the president to around three million refugees are refugees who have not got them- award the honours to “pay hom- posing grave security risk and it selves registered properly.” age” to the victims. The school is now working to send back non- The sources said that intelli- massacre, Pakistan’s deadliest registered Afghan refugees at the gence agencies have proof which ever terror attack which left 154 earliest to minimise these risks,” was handed over to the Afghan people dead and horrified the security officials told Daily Express authorities that there are unreg- world, prompted the government on the condition of anonymity. istered Afghans who are involved Avalanche victims receive relief goods, delivered by an Afghan army helicopter, at Araab village in the Paryan to announce a tough crackdown These sources said that after in terrorist activities and crimes, district of Panjshir province, yesterday. The Afghan government delivered aid to avalanche victims and their on militant groups. the approval of the National AGENCIES families in the mountainous province, where 200 people were killed, in some of the worst avalanches in 30 years.

Unusual rain hits Van bomb kills Pakistan in winter ‘Afghan officials sanctioned murder, rape’ 8 in Afghanistan ISLAMABAD: The current KABUL/LONDON: Top foreign troops. Some are accused agency, was badly injured in a Kandahar’s police chief Abdul spell of rain in Pakistan is ‘unu- Afghan officials have presided of personally inflicting violence, Taliban assassination attempt, Razziq, was pictured last year KANDAHAR: A Taliban sui- sual’ for this time of the year over murders, abduction, and others of having responsibility for Barack Obama and the former arm in arm with a beaming three- cide attacker driving an explo- and would continue to grip the other abuses with the tacit back- militias or government forces that defence secretary Leon Panetta star US general, who credited sives-laden van carrying goats country until next week with ing of their government and its committed the crimes. both went to visit him in the him with improving security in killed eight people includ- a break of two to three days in western allies, Human Rights Kandahar’s most powerful American hospital where he was the political and cultural heart of ing five civilians in southern between. Met Office Forecasting Watch says in a new report. commander, the former head of recovering. southern Afghanistan. Afghanistan yesterday, offi- Officer Muzammil Hussain said A grim account of deaths, the intelligence service and a key In doing so they chose to ignore Yet his rise to power he has cials said. The attacker tar- the country was experiencing an robbery, rapes and extrajudicial northern governor are among a long history of accusations of been dogged by a trail of alle- geted a joint Afghan army and unusual rain pattern. killings, Today We Shall All Die, those implicated. All of the rape, torture, corruption and ille- gations of extrajudicial killings, police base in the Sangin district “The wind from south-east details a culture of impunity that accused have denied the allega- gal detentions, some of it from US forced disappearances and tor- of the volatile southern province has brought moisture from the the rights group says flourished tions against them. diplomats or their allies, detailed ture, some described by HRW in of Helmand. Arabian Sea. Usually, the north- after the fall of the Taliban, Some have ties to the former in the HRW report. gruesome detail. As early as 2006, “Eight people, including five east wave brings rain during win- driven by the desire for immedi- president Hamid Karzai, who as A confidential Canadian gov- when still leading a unit of bor- civilians, two soldiers and one ter and south-east wave brings ate control of security at almost early as 2002 warned that secu- ernment report from 2007 warned der police, he was accused of the police were killed in the attack,” monsoon rains in summer. But any price. rity would be his first priority. that “allegations of human rights abduction and murder of 16 men, provincial spokesman Omar the pattern has changed this year “The rise of abusive politi- “Justice is a luxury for now; we abuses by (Khalid) are numer- said to be in a revenge killing for Zhwak said. Among the civilians, due to global warming,” he said. cal and criminal networks was must not lose peace for that,” the ous and consistent” and he was the death of his brother. a man, a woman and three children Hussain said there has been no not inevitable,” the report said. report quotes him saying soon described as “exceptionally corrupt “The acting commander of were killed he added. Zhwak had example of such a phenomenon “Short-term concerns for main- after coming to power. and incompetent” in a leaked US border police in Kandahar, Abdul earlier said nine people were killed, during the last two decades. taining a bulwark against the While he was in office, a blan- embassy cable. Khalid has previ- Razzaq Achakzai (Raziq), has but later lowered the death toll. “However after a break of two Taliban have undermined aspira- ket amnesty law for civil war- ously dismissed the allegations acknowledged killing the vic- Provincial police chief Nabi Jan days, another westerly wave is tions for long-term good govern- era crimes was passed. There are against him as fabrications. tims, but has claimed (claims Mullahkhil confirmed the attack likely to enter the country from ance and respect for human rights also multiple links to America’s “I know there is nothing (in now proved false) that the killings and said it was carried out by a van Balochistan on Thursday which in Afghanistan.” military and government, some- terms of evidence),” he said in took place during an ambush he carrying goats. “The van tried to may lead to heavy to moderate The report focuses on eight times beyond the liaisons that 2012, when his nomination as spy conducted against Taliban infil- enter the base, but detonated at the rain in the upper parts of the commanders and officials across were essential for troops on the chief stirred up controversy about trators,” a report by the office of entrance after the guards stopped country from next Tuesday,” he Afghanistan, some of them ground. his past. “This is just propaganda the EU envoy to Afghanistan said it,” he said. Seven soldiers and said. counted among the country’s most When Assadullah Khalid, the about me.” then. one civilian were wounded in the INTERNEWS powerful men, and key allies for former head of the country’s spy Another favourite of US forces, GUARDIAN NEWS attack, he said. Taliban insurgents, who are battling an Afghan army offensive launched last month in Helmand, claimed responsibility for the attack on their website. Last month, Afghan security forces launched their first solo ADB cancelled 103 loans for Pakistan in one decade offensive against the Taliban in Helmand and other militant ISLAMABAD: The Asian five loan cancellations per year, which witnessed peak in that from the transport portfolio, the loans falling to 42 in 2009 and strongholds after Nato-led com- Development Bank (ADB) has involving on average $90 million year. This was unprecedented; PSM portfolio had a large share 27 in 2012. The average loan size bat troops ended their combat cancelled 103 loans for Pakistan per year. This changed to an aver- prior to spring-cleaning such of cancellations. increased from $80m in 2006 mission in late December. during 2002-2012, resulting age of 13 loan cancellations per closures never exceeded 8 in a In 2011, again, transport, to $140m in 2011 and declined Helmand, a hotbed of the into payment of millions of dol- year from 2007 to 2011, involving single year. The majority of the together with another sector, slightly to $136m in 2012. Taliban insurgency and a hub for lars as commitment charges on average $257m per year, which cancellations made during the had major cancellations in their Compared with earlier restruc- drug trafficking, was the scene of by Islamabad’s struggling demonstrates the extensive and spring-cleaning exercise in 2007 operations, while in 2012, the turings of ADB programmes in repeated militant assaults dur- economy. prolonged effort to streamline concerned finance and education energy portfolio stood out in loan Bangladesh, India, Nepal, and Sri ing the fighting season last year. According to evaluation report Pakistan’s portfolio after the start sector operations. Later they cancellations Lanka, the effect on loan cancel- A residual force is engaged on a of the ADB, stating that in the 5 of the spring-cleaning in 2007. were made also in other types of The ADB’s spring-cleaning lations in Pakistan was of much training and support mission to years prior to the 2007 spring- Annual loan closures jumped operations. In 2008 and 2009, the exercise contributed to a sig- greater magnitude, both volume- Afghanistan’s 350,000 security cleaning undertaken by the from a low of 3 in 2006 to 23 in transport portfolios had signifi- nificant slimming of the port- and value-wise. forces, who now lead the fight ADB, there had been on average 2007, 15 in 2008, to 31 in 2009, cant cancellations. In 2010, aside folio, with the number of active INTERNEWS against the insurgents. AFP WEDNESDAY 4 MARCH 2015 14 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com INDIA Govt faces embarrassment as amendment to President’s speech passed

NEW DELHI: In a major clarifications and left the house Yechury, while stating that he norms and procedure in this house, motion every party has put their 57 who voted against, embarrass- embarrassment for the govern- soon completing his reply. Moving would have withdrawn the amend- we have strong objection, we would point of view. There is no scope, ing the government which is in a ment in the Rajya Sabha, an the amendment to vote, Yechury ment in normal circumstances, like to record that as well in this never before clarification given. minority in the upper house. amendment to the President’s said: “Since he (Modi) is asking for said: “Normally I would have con- vote,” he said. They have to understand that,” Ansari then read out the mes- speech was passed regretting the a fight, I am not withdrawing.” ceded to the parliamentary affairs The Marxist leader complained said Naidu. sage that would go to the President lack of reference to corruption Parliamentary Affairs Minister minister’s request... that the prime minister left the Rajya Sabha Chairman Hamid from the Rajya Sabha: “The mem- and black money in the speech. M Venkaiah Naidu pleaded with “The normal procedure is if house immediately after complet- Ansari, however, said it was the bers of the Rajya Sabha assembled The amendment was moved by the member not to put the amend- we disagree with something, we ing his reply and did not offer the member’s right to move the in this session are deeply grateful Communist Party of India-Marxist ment to vote. “Moving amend- rise for interjection, that was not opposition the courtesy to seek amendment if he wanted. “What to the President for the address (CPI-M) leader Sitaram Yechury ments usually does not happen,” allowed... After the minister’s clarifications. the minister said is a matter of which he has been pleased to on the “failure of the government Naidu said, adding the prime min- speech, we rise to ask for clarifi- “He cant leave the house and go propriety, if you want to move the deliver to both houses of parlia- to address high level corruption ister’s reply in the house addressed cation, that was not allowed, and after this,” Yechury said. amendment, it is a right the chair ment assembled together but and failure to bring back black both the issues. the LOP (Leader of Opposition Naidu argued that there was cannot deny,” Ansari said. regret that is no mention in the money” to India. “I request this is an issue on Ghulam Nabi Azad) was not no scope for clarification as it was The unrelenting Yechury then address about the failure of the Yechury said he was moving the which there can be no difference allowed to ask for clarifications,” a motion and not a statement. moved the amendment which was government to curb the high level amendment as Prime Minister of opinion... Please do not press for an angry Yechury said. “When you make a statement adopted with 118 members sup- corruption and to bring back black Narendra Modi refused to give division,” the minister said. “There has been violation of all you have clarifications. This is a porting the amendment against money.” IANS Modi slams Mufti remarks India’s tallest flag PM hints at changes in land bill, attacks opposition parties

NEW DELHI: On a day he run on the basis of the common again took on the opposition, minimum programme (CMP). Prime Minister Narendra Modi After protests over Mufti Sayeed’s Modi took a dig at 34 years of pledged to meet farmers’ con- Left rule in West Bengal, say- cerns over issues of land and comments, Lok Sabha sees peace ing industry and agriculture had distanced himself from Jammu suffered. and Kashmir Chief Minister NEW DELHI: The Lok Sabha resumed normal business yes- As the opposition tried to shout Mufti Mohammad Sayeed’s terday after a second day of protests sparked by Jammu and him down, he raised his voice and comments on state elections Kashmir Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed’s comments. thundered: “Sunna padega, sunna that triggered a huge row. Parliamentary Affairs Minister M Venkaiah Naidu said the gov- padega.” (You have to listen, you Modi was at his aggressive best ernment decision to disassociate itself from Sayeed’s remarks and have to listen.) as he attacked the Congress, the the appreciation of the work done by the security forces and the Modi sought support for the Left and the opposition in the Election Commission must be seen as “the sense of the house”. government’s legislative agenda Rajya Sabha. A miffed opposition Home Minister Rajnath Singh earlier said the government did saying the Rajya Sabha was a hit back by forcing a rare amend- not agree with Sayeed’s assessment. “The chief minister made a council of states and its members ment to the motion of thanks on statement and several members raised questions. I made it clear must reflect the mood of the peo- the president’s address. yesterday that our government and (our) party completely disso- ple in their states. On the controversial land bill ciates from the remarks. There is no question of welcoming such Responding to Congress criti- that has led to widespread criti- remarks,” Rajnath Singh said. cism that his government was cism, the prime minister said: “If He said the credit for the peaceful elections in the troubled state, merely pursuing UPA’s schemes, there is anything against farmers, which on Sunday got a PDP-BJP coalition government, went to the Modi said even the UPA’s much- I have said it since day one that poll panel, the army, the paramilitary forces and the people of Jammu touted rural employment guar- we are ready to make changes.” and Kashmir. As opposition MPs appeared dissatisfied, Naidu said antee scheme was an extension He said land was needed for the home minister had made a statement. “This is the sense of the of an initiatives of the Atal Bihari irrigation schemes, rural housing house. Let us move forward.” IANS Vajpayee government. and roads, explaining the reason Dismissing allegations that his for his government’s decision to The amendment passage He distanced his government government was pro-corporate, push for a law that would make exposed the government’s vul- from Sayeed’s remarks crediting Modi said that initiatives such it easier to acquire land. nerability in the upper house Pakistan and militants for the as Clean India, Jan Dhan Yojana, Modi vowed to bring back black where it has to get some crucial peaceful elections in the state cleaning the Ganga, Skill India money stashed abroad and found legislations passed to replace late last year. “We do not sup- and soil health card were aimed fault with the previous Congress- ordinances including the conten- port it, neither can we support at the common man. led government for not doing tious land bill. Officials said it it. A statement is made some- “We want to go for mobile gov- enough. He said the previous was apparently the only fourth where and we give reply, we will ernance. The poorest of the poor government had allowed people to such instance in the history of the not go in that direction,” Modi should have facilities on mobile,” route their black money out of the upper house. said, without mentioning Sayeed he said. foreign banks. His government Much before it, Modi gave a whose government has the BJP Taking a dig at the Congress, would leave no stone unturned spirited reply at the end of the as a partner. Modi said: “Get connected to the to bring unaccounted cash back debate, taking several digs at the He said the PDP-BJP govern- ground and you will know what is People unfurl India’s tallest flag in Faridabad on the outskirts of New to India, he said. Congress and the opposition. ment in Jammu and Kashmir will happening.” IANS Delhi yesterday. The flag, a reported 250-feet long, was unveiled to mark National Defence Day. Electoral roll purification Govt widens oil leaks probe to defence ministry

NEW DELHI: India has wid- of India’s biggest oil companies to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “We were concerned that crucial programme launched ened an investigation into pre-empt unfavourable decisions top aide, proposals for the annual documents had been leaked, but leaks of confidential documents or hurt rivals. budget and a presentation on the the defence ministry has always NEW DELHI: The Election rectifying errors. Electors have from its oil ministry to include There are also fears that secrets foreign unit of state oil firm ONGC. been very strict about its recruit- Commission launched the been provided the facility to feed the defence ministry, raising may have fallen into the hands of Over the weekend, investigators ment procedure,” said ministry National Electoral Roll their respective Aadhar number fears that other secrets vital to foreign intelligence agencies, with found documents on coal produc- spokesman Sitanshu Kar, adding Purification and Authentication through sms, e-mail, mobile appli- national security may have fallen investigators saying the group’s tion and power projects. Details of that the ministry’s own security Programme (NERPAP) to cre- cation and National Voters Service into the wrong hands. network extended across the gov- a defence ministry audit are also setup was “foolproof”. ate a “totally error-free and Portal, using web services through The scandal has engulfed the oil ernment. “These men had tenta- believed to have been leaked by The security aspect of the authenticated electoral roll”. the election commission website. ministry since the arrest two weeks cles spread in multiple government a casual worker employed by the leaks, not previously reported, During the programme, the Electors can also feed the Aadhar ago of low-level staff suspected of offices and it was easy for them to government’s audit office. could inject fresh urgency into the data of voters will be linked with number by making a call at 1950 stealing secret documents and sell- form a network,” said one police “Yes, it is a threat if the infor- investigation which has led to more Aadhar for the purpose of authen- or by submitting the details of the ing them to journalists who styled officer involved in the investiga- mation goes into the wrong hands,” than a dozen arrests. tication. The NERPAP will focus Aadhar number and Elector Photo themselves as high-profile industry tion, who declined to be identified said C Uday Bhaskar, a defence Those arrested are journalists on improving the image quality Identity Card (EPIC) number in consultants. because he was not authorised to expert and director of the Society Santanu Saikia of Indianpetro. of electors (by borrowing better a duly filled up form along with So far, investigators have speak on the record. for Policy Studies. “Any informa- com, Prayas Jain of Metis Energy, photos from the UIDAI database) photocopies of both the EPIC and focused on how that informa- Among the documents recov- tion deemed to be restricted can be and Lokesh Sharma of Infraline along with sorting out issues like Aadhar cards. IANS tion was, in turn, used by some ered are correspondence signed by used by an inimical, hostile entity.” Energy. REUTERS

Widows celebrate festival of colours Maharashtra bans beef, introduces fine, 5-year jail term for possession

MUMBAI: Beef, the popu- cow slaughter under the the state failed to do the needful lar red meat, was banned in Maharashtra Animal Prevention and get the Bill implemented. We Maharashtra with presidential Act, 1976, barring bulls or bul- had committed to do this in our assent being accorded to the rel- locks, the culling of which was manifesto and have fulfilled it,” evant legislation — two decades permitted with certain regula- Somaiya said. after the assembly had passed tions. “Thanks a lot Hon President Mumbai alone consumes it during the former Shiv Sena- Sir for the assent on Maharashtra around 90,000 kg beef daily, with BJP government in the state. Animal Preservation Bill. Our around 25 percent accounting But the latest measures in dream of ban on cow slaugh- for water buffalo meat, called Maharashtra — home to India’s ter becomes a reality now,” a carabeef, through 900 licensed commercial centre Mumbai — go pleased Chief Minister Devendra and hundreds more illegal outlets. even further, making the sale or Fadnavis said in a tweet. However, all the culling and possession of beef an offence pun- BJP MP Kirit Somaiya, who processing of around 450 large ishable by a five-year jail term or had led a delegation to President animals which are slaughtered a Rs10,000 ($160) fine. Pranab Mukherjee on the issue daily is carried out only at the Presidential assent was recently, termed the assent as “a Deonar Abattoir, Asia’s largest accorded to the Maharashtra historic step with cultural as well in north-east Mumbai. Since the Animal Prevention (Amendment as economic implications for the past several weeks, beef traders Bill), 1995, which bans even the state”. in a majority of the state’s cities slaughter of bulls and bullocks, He said the bill passed by the and towns have been on strike Widows dance as they celebrate Holi, or festival of colours, in Vrindavan in Uttar Pradesh yesterday. Widows but will allow the slaughter of Maharashtra legislature in 1995 protesting against harassment congregated on a small patio of the ashram in which they live and danced and played with coloured powder water buffaloes, considered to was forwarded for the president’s by right-wing and Hindu groups, to celebrate the occasion. yield an inferior quality of beef. assent in 1996. who are also demanding closure The state had already banned “Subsequent governments in of Deonar Abattoir. AGENCIES WEDNESDAY 4 MARCH 2015 INDIA www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 15

Firearm training for women Jammu & AAP crisis: Action likely Kashmir CM allots portfolios against Bhushan, Yadav to ministers

JAMMU: Jammu and Kejriwal may skip meet, to go for 10 days of treatment Kashmir Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed assigned NEW DELHI: Minus a last- the party from scratch over the achieve the goals for which the portfolios to his council of min- minute change of mind, Aam past one year,” the source added. party was set up. There should be isters, ending the suspense over Aadmi Party leaders Prashant The source admitted that a small no rift,” said Shanti Bhushan, who sharing of portfolios between Bhushan and Yogendra Yadav section in the party, including in himself has made critical com- the ruling alliance partners may be out of its top body today the National Executive, was in ments against Kejriwal earlier. PDP and BJP. even as Chief Minister Arvind favour of not doing anything that Yadav said: “I and Prashant Deputy Chief Minister Nirmal Kejriwal said he was “deeply hurt could lead to the possible exit of Bhushan had raised voice for inter- Singh (BJP) has been assigned and pained” by an ugly strife Bhushan and Yadav from the AAP. nal democracy in the party. There the important portfolio of power that has gripped Delhi’s barely The AAP meanwhile announced is nothing wrong in that. I will see development, housing and urban month-old ruling party. that Kejriwal, who is not expected if action happens against me.” development. AAP sources said that the to attend today’s National Executive In what was viewed as an obvi- Abdul Rehman Veeri (PDP) got majority in the 21-member meeting, was flying to Bengaluru ous attack on Kejriwal, Bhushan horticulture, Hajj and Auqaf while National Executive favoured oust- for 10 days of naturopathy treat- and Yadav have been quoted as Haseeb Drabu (PDP) got finance, ing Bhushan, a leading Supreme ment for his high sugar levels. questioning the party’s “one per- labour and employment. Court lawyer and an AAP founder, “I am deeply hurt and pained son-centric” approach — in inter- Chander Prakash (BJP) got and political pundit Yadav from the by what is going on in the party. nal communications leaked to the industries and commerce. nine-member, decision-making This is betrayal of trust that (the media. Bhushan refused to speak Javaid Mustafa Mir (PDP) got Political Affairs Committee (PAC). people of) Delhi reposed in us,” the to the media. revenue while Lal Singh (BJP) got The decision, if carried out, AAP chief tweeted, adding he won’t Yadav is being accused by a sec- health, medical education, ARI would mean that Bhushan and allow “people’s trust to be broken”. tion of the AAP of trying to oust and training. Abdul Haq Khan Yadav would cease to be decision “I refuse to be drawn in this Kejriwal as its national convenor. (PDP) got rural development, Bali makers in a party once it cements ugly battle. Will concentrate only The AAP said that Kejriwal’s Bhagat (BJP) got social welfare, its foundation in Delhi. And if on Delhi’s governance,” he added. sugar level was above 300. “So he forest, ecology and environment. Bhushan and Yadav take their Kejriwal’s comments appeared has decided to opt for naturopathy.” Syed Basharat Bukhari (PDP) ouster from the PAC as a slight, to indicate he was distancing him- In Kejriwal’s absence, Deputy will hold the portfolio of law, jus- they could exit from the party. self from his known supporters Chief Minister Manish Sisodia will tice and parliamentary affairs and “The majority is determined to who have threatened to act tough officiate as chief minister. Sukhnandan Kumar (BJP) will act against Yadav and Bhushan,” against Bhushan and Yadav. Officials in Bengaluru said manage public health engineering. a high-level AAP source said. Yesterday, Prashant Bhushan’s Kejriwal will be admitted to the Altaf Bukhari (PDP) got pub- “Most feel that they have brought father Shanti Bhushan, also a lead- Jindal Naturecure Institute on the lic works, floriculture and parks. a bad name to the AAP by talk- ing lawyer, urged his son, Yadav outskirts of the city Thursday. Chowdhary Zulfiqar (PDP) got ing about the lack of so-called and Kejriwal to “stick together”. The institute, spread over 10 consumer affairs and public dis- internal democracy in the party. “Kejriwal should continue as all- acres of lush greenery, provides tribution and tribal affairs. It is clear they are ganging up India convenor. Bhushan and Yadav relief, prevention and cure of spe- An instructor teaches the handling of a .22 bore rifle to a young woman Sajad Gani Lone of the Peoples against Kejriwal, who has virtually must support him. That’s the best cific diseases through a non-inva- during a firearms training programme for women aged 15 and above Conference got animal husbandry, destroyed his own health rebuilding for the party, and such a stand will sive, drugless therapy. IANS at the Ahmedabad City Police firing range yesterday. The programme science and technology. aims to empower women aged 15 and above with self defence skills. Imran Raza Ali (PDP) got information technology, techni- cal education, youth services and sports. Naeem Akhtar (PDP) got education. All these ministers hold cabinet Telangana constitutes panel for Muslim reservation rank in the council of ministers. The portfolio assignment order HYDERABAD: The to be headed by retired IAS provide for reservation in edu- specifies that all other depart- Telangana government consti- officer G Sudhir will submit a cation and employment to poor ments/subjects not assigned to tuted a commission to study the report to the government within deserving Muslims, wherever AP for women empowerment body any of the above ministers shall socio-economic and educational six months. necessary. HYDERABAD: The Andhra Pradesh government constituted a remain with the chief minister. status of Muslims in the state An order issued by the minori- MA Bari, a retired govern- women’s empowerment corporation as part of its efforts to eliminate Sayeed holds the all important and recommend increase in the ties welfare department said ment official, will be a member poverty and improve the human development index of the state. The portfolios of home and general quantum of reservation for the there was a need for the study while the second member will be Andhra Pradesh Mahila Sadhikara Samithi, as the corporation will administration. community. to enable the government to for- appointed later. be known, will work on programmes, schemes and activities for pov- Among the junior ministers, Muslims in Telangana cur- mulate policies for the ameliora- Meanwhile, the state govern- erty elimination in both rural and urban areas. Chering Dorjay (BJP) will hold rently enjoy 4 percent reservation tion and upliftment of Muslims ment also constituted a three- The APMSS has been registered with a corpus of Rs1 crore and will independent charge of the coop- in education and employment. to bring them on par with other member commission to study be anchored in the department of rural development, which will be erative department while Abdul The commission has been con- sections of society. and prepare a comprehensive reconfigured as the department for empowerment and poverty elimi- Ghani Kohli (BJP) will hold inde- stituted by Telangana Rashtra The commission will recom- report on the relative increase of nation. From social mobilisation to community institutions develop- pendent charge of the transport Samithi (TRS) government as a mend the steps to be taken to Scheduled Tribes (STs) popula- ment, capacity enhancement, access to and management of credit, skill, department. follow-up on its poll promise to remove the impediments in the tion in the state and their social knowledge and technology transfer, value-addition and linkage with The two women junior min- provide 12 percent reservations improvement of the overall social, and economic backwardness. markets, access to improved health, nutrition and education services isters, Priya Sethi and Asiya to Muslims. educational, economic conditions The TRS had also promised 12 and related empowerment activities, the APMSS will do it all. IANS Naqash, will be in charge of the The three-member commission of the Muslim community and to percent quota for the STs. IANS information and health. IANS

Baby dies Govt against airing rapist’s interview after protests aboard flight NEW DELHI: A BBC documen- the documentary “India’s daugh- October 8 to 10, 2013,” she told tary carrying an interview with ter” by British filmmaker Leslee reporters. She said the contro- Mukesh Singh, one of those con- Udwin, sources said. versy “is unnecessary”. victed in the December 16, 2012 The documentary includes On the basis of media reports, to Bahrain gang rape, justifying the bru- an interview of Singh, who is the Economic Offences Wing tality of the crime, triggered a among the six men who raped the (EOW) branch of Delhi Police DUBAI: A one-year-old Indian furore yesterday as Delhi Police 23-year-old trainee physiothera- registered a case and started toddler died on board a Gulf said it will move court against its pist on board a moving bus. The their probe into the matter and Air flight that was on its way airing and registered a case. convict said the woman should not said it will move court to stop from Kochi to Bahrain’s capital The dead victim’s parents reit- have “resisted” while being raped. airing of the documentary. “This Manama, forcing the aircraft erated their demand for hanging Amid the controversy, Udwin was a ghastly crime and the law to make an emergency land- the rapists even as protesting said she had followed the “nec- has been broken, we will inves- ing at Abu Dhabi International women’s rights groups termed the essary protocol” in making her tigate the case,” Delhi Police Airport, media reported interview “totally unacceptable” documentary. “I wrote a letter Commissioner BS Bassi told yesterday. and “very disturbing”. to Tihar’s director general say- reporters here. The child suddenly became sick Meanwhile, the information ing that the film will be in public The interview is to be aired by almost halfway to Manama from and broadcasting ministry asked interest and there won’t be any BBC Four on its Storyville pro- Kochi on Monday morning and news channels not to air the BBC unnecessary sensationalism. I gramme on March 8 to coincide Leslee Udwin (right) at a press conference alongside her co-producer Indian died on board, the Khaleej Times documentary. The ministry has was given the permission and I with International Women’s Day. TV journalist Dibang in New Delhi yesterday. reported. “As the aircraft landed asked the channels not to air interviewed these convicts from IANS at Abu Dhabi International Airport, we immediately shifted the body to Shaikh Khalifa Snow-clad Srinagar (Medical City) hospital morgue,” an airline source was quoted as saying. Want debate on political The source said the airline staff offloaded the luggage of the mother and child at Abu Dhabi airport and the plane left for parties’ rights: Sudheeran Manama after a delay of one- and-a-half hours. “We made all THIRUVANANTHAPU- Sudheeran issued a circular arrangements for shifting the RAM: VM Sudheeran, the head in 2014 asking the Congress-led body to the hospital morgue and of the Congress’ Kerala unit, local bodies not to give no-objec- took care of the mother in this called for a debate on the rights tion certificates (NOCs) for bar time of grief,” he said. and responsibilities of political licences. The father of the child, iden- parties vis-a-vis the judiciary. “The law does not recog- tified as Binoy, has been work- A division bench of the Kerala nise such extra-constitutional ing in Bahrain for the last 10 High Court, hearing a petition intervention in the exercise of years and the baby, identified as on Monday against Sudheeran’s statutory discretion. Such inter- Hrishipria, was flying with her circular on bar licences, said that ference amounts to dictation from mother Ashwini. anybody who was well-informed political superiors and has been The couple got married three about the law would not have condemned by the court on years ago and Ashwini was resid- issued such a circular. more than one occasion,” said ing in Bahrain with her husband “The issue is not just pertain- the court. but had travelled to Kerala for ing to Congress alone, this is The bench, comprising Justice delivery of the baby about one- for all political parties. Jurists, Antony Dominic and Justice and-a-half years back. The family legal experts, politicians and civil Alexander Thomas made the hails from Thrissur. Binoy arrived A Kashmiri man stands along the banks of artificial lake of Botanical Garden in the backdrop of snow-clad societies should start a debate remark while disposing a petition late Monday from Bahrain and on rights and responsibilities of filed by Kochi’s KGA Hotels and mountains on the outskirts of Srinagar yesterday. joined his wife in Abu Dhabi. IANS political parties,” Sudheeran said. Resorts Pvt Ltd in Kochi. IANS WEDNESDAY 4 MARCH 2015 16 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com MORNING BREAK

PRAYER TIME Nutty crown

Fajr (Dawn) 4:39 Shorook (Sunrise) 5:55 Zuhr (Noon) 11:46 Asr (Afternoon) 3:07 Maghrib (Sunset) 5:38 Isha (Night) 7:08

WEATHER

Today Thursday Friday Weather Conditions: Partly cloudy Clear Clear Hazy at first becomes

High: 27° High: 26° High: 25° moderate Low: 17° Low: 18° Low: 17° temperature and slight dust during daytime with some clouds becoming relatively cold by night. DOHA - SUN & SEA

SUN TIDE SEA SUNRISE | SUNSET HIGH | LOW WIND 05:55 17:38 04:30 & 16:30 11:15 & 22:00 07-15/18 KT

THE REGION TODAY TOMORROW

HI/LO WEATHER HI/LO WEATHER

MUSCAT 26/18 Clear 26/18 Clear MAKKAH 37/22 Clear 37/23 Clear A Sri Lankan vendor waits to sell peanuts in Colombo yesterday. KUWAIT 26/11 Clear 25/11 Clear BAHRAIN 25/17 Clear 24/17 Clear SANAA 28/10 Clear 28/11 Clear RIYADH 29/13 Clear 26/13 Clear A little coffee DUBAI 27/18 Clear 26/17 Clear BAGHDAD 23/09 Clear 23/17 Clear Rattle coming home to good for the THE WORLD TODAY TOMORROW HI/LO WEATHER HI/LO WEATHER lead Britain’s LSO heart: Study ATHENS 15/10 Partly cloudy 16/13 Partly cloudy LONDON: One of classical The LSO has an august pedi- PARIS: People who drink three WASHINGTON 09/01 Scattered clouds 01/-13 Rain music’s biggest names, British gree, boasting figures such as to five cups of coffee a day may SYDNEY 26/15 Partly cloudy 28/16 Clear conductor Simon Rattle (pic- Edward Elgar and Andre Previn have a lower risk of clogged LONDON 08/02 Partly cloudy 11/01 Clear tured), is going home to lead the as previous principal conductors. arteries that can cause serious PARIS 10/02 Partly cloudy 11/01 Clear London Symphony Orchestra But critics are hopeful that heart problems, a study said ISTANBUL 09/04 Clear 13/09 Cloudy (LSO), he said yesterday, follow- Rattle’s arrival could breathe new yesterday. MANILA 32/21 Partly cloudy 34/22 Clear ing news of his departure from life into the often conservative The South Korean research is DHAKA 28/19 Partly cloudy 28/17 Clear the Berlin Philharmonic. world of orchestras and concert the latest on the health effects DELHI 25/13 Clear 27/14 Clear The shaggy-haired 60-year-old halls in Britain. of the popular brew, previously ISLAMABAD 15/08 Chance of showers 18/07 Chance of showers will become music director at the “Rattle’s appointment is pre- associated with a reduced risk LSO in September 2017, succeed- cisely the seismic, creative shock of developing multiple sclero- ing Russia’s Valery Gergiev, who that classical music needs,” wrote sis, Parkinson’s and Alzheimers is currently principal conductor. critic Tom Service in the Guardian. disease. Critics said the move would “His presence at the top of But coffee consumption has shake up the often stuffy world Britain’s most acclaimed ensemble also been linked to higher cho- ‘Alien of the deep’ of classical music in Britain — and capital also has a string of older has the potential to be the cata- lesterol and blood pressure, both may even lead to the construction venues such as the Royal Albert lyst for a revitalisation of classi- of which are bad news for cardiac of a new concert hall in London. Hall, home of the annual Proms cal music, from schools and music health. During a critically acclaimed concert season. hubs to conservatoires and concert For the latest study, the team goblin shark found series of shows in the British capi- Rattle stressed that his move halls.” analysed data from 25,100 South tal with the Berlin Philharmonic was not dependent on London The conductor himself said he Korean men and women, average SYDNEY: A rare sea crea- a fisherman in January. It was last month, Rattle complained getting a new symphony hall at a hoped to make the genre more age 41, who had undergone regu- ture described as an “alien found near Eden, off Australia’s that it lacked a hall with acous- press conference where his move accessible during his time at the lar health screening. of the deep” has been found southeast coast, at a depth of tics good enough for world-class was confirmed. LSO by creating a situation in None of the study group had off Australia and delivered to about 200 metres and delivered performances. “The feasibility study has been which “performing, teaching and any cardiovascular problems, but a museum which yesterday to a local aquarium which kept “You have no idea how great the announced which is a wonderful learning are indivisible”. one in seven had detectable levels showed off its fleshy snout, nail- it in excellent condition for the London Symphony Orchestra can thing because what I wanted to “I cannot imagine a more of coronary artery calcium (CAC) like teeth and flabby pink body. museum. sound in a great concert hall,” he do was at least be able to kickstart inspiring way to spend my next — an early sign of coronary heart The prehistoric-looking goblin The shark is found in the Pacific, told the BBC in an interview. the conversation about the pos- years,” he added in a statement. disease, or atherosclerosis. sharks live on deep sea bottoms Atlantic and Indian oceans. The That prompted British finance sibility of a change,” he said. “We Rattle’s contract at the Berlin Atherosclerosis occurs when and little is known about their species, whose scientific name is minister George Osborne to launch wait with real interest.” Philharmonic, where he has been a waxy compound called plaque lives. “Mitsukurina owstoni”, is thought a feasibility study into building a Rattle first performed with the chief conductor since 2002, ends lines the artery walls, limiting The museum said the body to be a living fossil dating back new venue which will issue its LSO when he was 22 and con- in 2018, the year after he is due blood flow and potentially trig- of the shark, which had died by some 125 million years. findings later this year. ducted the orchestra at the open- to move to London. gering dangerous blood clots. the time it was given to the local The animal’s jaw mechanism The LSO is the resident ing ceremony for the 2012 London The Liverpudlian intends to The level of CAC was highest aquarium, had nonetheless been shoots forward when it detects orchestra at London’s Barbican Olympics, accompanied by come- work with both orchestras dur- among those who had less than well kept and would be an asset prey and then retracts under its Centre, which Rattle described dian Rowan Atkinson as Mr Bean ing the overlapping year. one cup or more than five cups to its collection. fleshy, spade-shaped snout. as merely “serviceable”, while the on keyboards. AFP daily, the researchers found. It “It’s pretty impressive, it’s not “I suspect because it has got was lowest among those who hideous it’s beautiful,” said the soft, flabby musculature, it doesn’t drank between three to five cups. Australian Museum’s fish collec- need much energy... so it will Cup size was not specified in tion manager, Mark McGrouther, swim slowly over the bottom just the report. who described its teeth as looking using its snout like a metal detec- The researchers said the result like “little daggers”. tor,” McGrouther said. More cats than was the same for all population “They are not caught terribly “It will be sweeping over the sub-groups, regardless of age, often. They are not encountered bottom and when it detects a gender, smoking status, body fat, terribly often at all.” small fish, or a crab or a squid it humans on alcohol consumption or blood McGrouther said this was will shoot those jaws out ‘wham’ pressure levels. AFP only the fourth goblin shark to and capture whatever it is. Japan island be acquired by the museum in “It will spear it with those Sydney, with the first two col- sharp pointed teeth and then just AOSHIMA: An army of feral lected in the 1980s. wolf it down whole.” cats rules a remote island in The latest was picked up by AFP southern Japan, curling up in abandoned houses or strutting Netflix to launch about in a fishing village that is overrun with felines outnum- in Australia this bering humans six to one. Originally introduced to the month mile-long island of Aoshima to deal with mice that plagued fish- SYDNEY: US video streaming ermen’s boats, the cats stayed on service Netflix yesterday said — and multiplied. Cats crowd the harbour embankment on Aoshima Island in Ehime prefecture, it will launch in Australia and More than 120 cats swarm southern Japan. New Zealand this month. the island with only a handful of The move comes amid an humans for company, mostly pen- “There is a ton of cats here, garden. Locals are trying to keep increasing shift to Internet-based sioners who didn’t join the waves then there was this sort of cat the feline population in check — at on-demand television globally, of migrants seeking work in the witch who came out to feed the least 10 cats have been neutered. with the California-based com- cities after World War Two. cats which was quite fun,” said Residents haven’t taken too pany leading the field. Aoshima, a 30-minute ferry 27-year-old Makiko Yamasaki. kindly to the tourists either. Netflix co-founder and chief ride off the coast of Ehime prefec- “So I’d want to come again.” They don’t mind them coming, executive Reed Hastings said ture, had been home to 900 people The cats of Aoshima are not but want to be left in peace. streaming in Australia and New in 1945. The only sign of human too picky, surviving on the rice “If people coming to the island Zealand would begin on March 24. activity now is the boatload of balls, energy bars or potatoes they find the cats healing, then I think The video-on-demand serv- day-trippers from the mainland, cadge off tourists. In the absence it’s a good thing,” said 65-year-old ice will be available on all major visiting what is locally known as of natural predators, they roam Hidenori Kamimoto, who ekes out Australian broadband opera- Cat Island. the island without fear. a living as a fisherman. tors and accessible on a myriad With no restaurants, cars, Not all the residents are admir- “I just hope that it’s done in a of devices, including smart TVs, shops or kiosks selling snacks, ers, though. One elderly woman way that doesn’t become a burden gaming console Xbox, smart- The jaws of a goblin shark are displayed at the Australian Museum. Aoshima is no tourist haven. But shooed the animals away with a on the people who live here.” phones and tablets. cat lovers are not complaining. stick when they dug up her back REUTERS AFP Wednesday 4 March 2015 13 Jumada I 1436 Volume 19 Number 6359 Price: QR2

NSW takes delivery of mooring tugs

Business | 18

www.thepeninsulaqatar.com [email protected] | [email protected] Editorial: 44557741 | Advertising: 44557837 / 44557780 Turkey plans Oil gloom won’t privatisation of bourse to boost hit aluminium equity market

ISTANBUL: Turkish stock exchange Borsa Istanbul said industry: Expert yesterday it plans to go public, in Ankara’s latest move to bol- ster its $220bn equity market which has punched below its GulfCast conference begins in Doha weight for years. Borsa Istanbul, the country’s BY MOHAMMAD SHOEB is booming resulting in higher only stock exchange, plans to list consumption of aluminium as the up to 43 percent of its capital DOHA: Qatar’s aluminium industry is gradually switching through the sale of most of the industry remained resilient to from steel to aluminium,” he said. shares now held by the national the global economic downturn He noted that as a result of Treasury. and dwindling oil prices. shale revolution, gas prices in the Turkey has joined the list of the The total annual production US are falling and making the US world’s top 20 economies, thanks of aluminium in Qatar is con- aluminium industry more price to years of solid growth, but its tinuously growing and expected competitive. This may be a cause equity market has not kept up, to touch 640,000 tonnes in 2015, of concern in the short-term, with the bulk of trade centred which is 9.4 percent higher than but in the longer run, say 10 to around a handful of large-cap the installed capacity of Qatalum 20 years, things will not remain stocks. plant (585,000 tonnes), a senior the same. Prime Minister Ahmet official of Qatalum said yesterday. “The aluminium industries in Davutoglu said in January he “We were not affected by oil the Gulf region, which currently A view of the new headquarters of QIB-UK. wanted Istanbul to break into the crisis, and our production level is produces about 10 percent of ranks of the world’s top 10 finan- still increasing. The annual pro- the global output, will continue cial hubs, an ambitious target given duction in 2014 reached 612,000 to remain a significant player in the challenge from other emerging tonnes, about five percent higher long term due to various positive Qatar Islamic Bank opens market rivals such as Dubai. than the full capacity,” said factors, including lower energy The bourse, which has previ- Tom Petter Johansen, CEO of costs,” said the top official of ously said it planned to privatise, Qatalum. Qatalum, organiser of the first did not say how it would spend Johansen, speaking to this ‘GulfCast’ conference. the proceeds from the capi- newspaper on the sidelines of the The three-day event, which is new London headquarters tal raising. But it could look to first Gulf Aluminium Casthouse set to conclude here today, was bolster its technology as other Conference, added: “It became held under the patronage of H DOHA: Qatar Islamic Bank relationship management team, personalised banking solutions.” exchanges around the world have possible by optimising our pro- E Dr Mohammed bin Saleh Al (QIB), Qatar’s leading Islamic and with the support of product Bert de Ruiter, CEO of been doing, to help it compete for duction processes and some Sada, the Minister of Energy and bank, has announced the open- specialists in real estate finance, QIB-UK, said he is delighted with business from hedge funds and minor modifications. This helped Industry. ing of its new headquarters in trade finance, and treasury, it the bank’s the new premises, as it high-frequency traders. us achieve a significant improve- Day one of the programme the United Kingdom for its sub- strives to deliver service excel- signalled the Bank’s commitment It could also extend the reach ment in cost efficiency, and we opened with a welcome speech sidiary QIB-UK. lence and tailor-made solutions to its clients. “The move perfectly of its own equity investments. were able to reduce by $124 per by Abdulrahman Al Shaibi, Based in the heart of London’s in a Shariah-compliant manner fits in with our ambition to deliver Borsa Istanbul already has tonne by the end of 2014.” Chairman of Qatalum. affluent Mayfair district, the to its customers. top-end customer service and stakes in smaller exchanges in Commenting about the oil cri- Attending were Tim Murray, purchase of the new premises at QIB-UK is offering unique real solutions,” he said, “and with the central Asia and eastern Europe, sis, he said that the demand of CEO of Aluminium Bahrain 43 Grosvenor Street reflects the estate investment opportunities purchase of these premises, we including in Kyrgyzstan and aluminium is not directly influ- (ALBA); Khalid Laram, Deputy Bank’s commitment to its UK for clients looking to purchase are also demonstrating our belief Montenegro. enced by oil prices, and the cost CEO of Qatalum; Abdul Aziz Al business, dedicated to serving premium properties in London. in the strength of the London “There are a lot of fundamen- of production of the material also Ageel, Secretary General, GOIC, its high net worth clients from a QIB-UK has assembled a team of property market. We position tal issues with the equity markets does not get much influenced by and Abdulrahman Ali Al Abdulla, centrally-located headquarters. real estate specialists to ensure ourselves as a ‘niche’ private and the underlying economy in it either, because the most impor- CEO, Muntajat. Grosvenor Street is internation- clients are well placed to get the bank offering bespoke real estate Turkey that possibly need to be tant source of energy used in They brought to the event ally recognised as one of London’s best real estate opportunities in finance solutions and personalized improved before it can become a the aluminium industry today is expertise in environmental, tech- most prestigious office locations, the market. banking services, such as prefer- competitor” with exchanges such coal, especially in China, which nological and operational strategy covering a broad range of leading Bassel Gamal, Group CEO ential deposits in multi-currency as Dubai, said Anshuman Jaswal produces over 40 percent of the that can be adopted by the alu- international enterprises. of QIB said: “London is one and tenors, to the HNWI custom- of research and consulting firm global output. minium industry in Qatar and the The new five storey office is of the important cities in the ers from Qatar with an interest Celent. He added that lower energy region. This technology transfer is specifically designed to empha- global financial markets and in the UK.” To start, Turkey needs to build prices, in contrary, increasing the intended to further enhance the sise the bank’s operating princi- QIB is proud to be strategically QIB-UK, was fully authorised up a base of retail investors, bol- competitiveness of global alumin- already highly efficient smelters ples of providing high standards placed in one of the preferred as an Islamic Bank by the UK ster its fledgling asset manage- ium industry compared to other in the region to grow in produc- of service. QIB-UK’s focus is on tourism, cultural and economi- Financial Services Authority in ment industry and channel more materials. tivity and gain a larger share of supporting the investment and cal destinations. This allows January 2008, and is fully owned investment toward shares of “We see that due to the auto- the global market. trade flows between Qatar and the us to provide our clients with by Qatar Islamic Bank. smaller companies, he said. motive sector, with lower oil price, THE PENINSULA UK. Through its high-net-worth top class financial services and THE PENINSULA REUTERS

Foreign investors bullish on Qatar ranked Brent rebounds three fourth on Qatar Exchange listed firms Islamic markets percent to $61.29 BY SACHIN KUMAR NEW YORK: Oil rebounded after Netanyahu told the US its total capital, as on 31 December last year, from investment index yesterday as Israeli Prime Congress in a speech that a 7.07 percent of its total capital, as on 2 January Minister Benjamin Netanyahu nuclear deal being negotiated by DOHA: Global investors are bullish on most of 2014. DOHA: Qatar was ranked warned the Obama administra- the US and Iran would almost the Qatar listed companies as they increased Experts say that rising stake in Qatar listed fourth on 2015 Islamic Growth tion against accepting a weak guarantee that the Opec mem- their stakes in these companies last year. companies shows that global investors expect Markets Investments Index, nuclear deal with Iran and rival ber, which he described as a global Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs), global these companies to grow in future. which ranks countries’ Libyan forces targeted oil ter- threat, got nuclear weapons. fund managers and individual investors have “It (increasing ownership of global investors) investment potential rela- minals in the African nation. “His speech may have rein- raised their stakes substantially in companies means that global investors believe that these tive to other members within US crude futures were, how- forced the geopolitical tensions operating in Qatar in 2014. companies have strong fundamentals and they the Organisation of Islamic ever, volatile, paring some of their around Iran, though I don’t believe Of the total 43 companies listed on Qatar will grow in future,” said an analyst with Qatar Cooperation (OIC). early gains on concerns that oil this rebound has legs given the Exchange (QE), global investors have increased based brokerage firm. “At the time when global The report was released yes- inventories in the United States, fundamental picture of oil over- their stake in 25 of them, according to Qatar economy is witnessing volatility due to ongoing terday by Thomson Reuters in the world’s leading economy, could supply,” said Gene McGillian, sen- Exchange data. financial uncertainty in Eurozone and slowdown cooperation with DinarStandard be headed for new record highs. ior analyst at Tradition Energy in The companies which saw their non-Qatari in China, global investors have fewer options to Foundation, consulting and Traders also said higher prices Stamford, Connecticut. ownership moving up sharply during 2014 were Al invest,” he said. research specialists in the field imposed by Saudi Arabia for its Brent’s front-month contract Meera, Vodafone Qatar and the Qatar Electricity QNB, Qatar Islamic Bank, Commercial Bank of Islamic markets, during the crude buyers in Asia, the US and was up $1.75 at $61.29 a barrel and Water Company. of Qatar, Doha Bank, Gulf Warehousing Company Islamic Investment Portal Forum northwest Europe were another at 12.37pm EST (1737 GMT), Non-Qatari ownership, which includes owner- and Islamic Holding also witnessed stake of non- in Bahrain. positive development, although after rising more than $2 a bar- ship by companies, funds, portfolio and individual Qatari investors moving up during the year. Among the GCC countries, the some had expected benchmark rel earlier. investors, in Al Meera went up to 12.96 percent of During the year, 18 companies listed on Qatar UAE was ranked third, Saudi Brent and US oil futures to rally It had tumbled nearly five per- its total capital, as on 31 December last year, from exchange witnessed fall in the stake of non-Qatari Arabia (seventh), Kuwait (thir- even more on the news. cent on Monday, its biggest loss 7.76 percent of its total capital, as on 2 January investors. Going forward, profitability of compa- teenth), Oman (fourteenth) and Brent was up three percent, in a month, on speculation that 2014. nies is likely to come under pressure which may Bahrain (eighteenth). The Index trading firmly above the support a quick nuclear deal between Likewise non-Qatari ownership in Vodafone prompt global investors to look for another com- is based on a set of nine met- level of $60 a barrel. Iran and the West could ramp went up to 7.3 percent of its total capital, as on panies to invest. Crude oil price has fallen dras- rics covering the categories of a The market rose in early trade up Tehran oil’s exports, adding 31 December last year, from 4.59 percent of its tically and is now trading around $60-a-barrel country’s growth fundamentals, as rival Libyan forces carried out to global inventories. US crude total capital, as on 2 January 2014. much lower than the price of over $100-a- barrel growth momentum, investment tit-for-tat air strikes on oil termi- prices were choppy on worries Non-Qatari ownership in the Qatar Electricity seen last year. momentum and relative country nals and an airport, reviving fears that domestic crude stockpiles and Water Company went up to 10.20 percent of THE PENINSULA risk. over local crude supplies. had reached new all-time highs. THE PENINSULA Gains in Brent accelerated REUTERS WEDNESDAY 4 MARCH 2015 18 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com BUSINESS Non-hydrocarbon sector to boost Qatar’s growth GDP expected to hit 7.9pc in 2017: QNB Group

DOHA: As the government con- to aggregate demand, putting tinues investing heavily in the moderate pressure on domestic non-hydrocarbon sector despite inflation. Counterbalancing this, lower oil prices, Qatar’s real GDP foreign inflation is expected to growth is expected to accelerate slow in 2015-17 as international to seven percent in 2015, 7.5 per- commodity prices fall on weak cent in 2016 and 7.9 percent in global demand, record food har- 2017, QNB Group has said. vests and a stronger US dollar. The government plans to Overall inflation is projected change its fiscal year to a cal- to slow to 2.5 percent in 2015 as endar year basis starting with rising rents (with a lower weight the 2016 budget, with an interim in the basket) are expected to be extension of the 2014-15 budget partly offset by lower interna- by nine months to cover the tional food prices, before acceler- remainder of 2015. The govern- ating to 3.2 percent in 2016 and ment is expected to increase its 3.3 percent in 2017. capital spending while stabilising Lower hydrocarbon revenue current expenditure with further and rising capital spending are A view of one of the mooring tugs. expenditure rationalisation, the expected to tip the fiscal balance QNB analysts said. into deficits of 2.2 percent of GDP In its “Qatar Economic Insight in 2015, 3.4 percent in 2016 and 3.7 NSW takes delivery of mooring tugs 2015”, published yesterday, QNB percent in 2017. Group noted the e Barzan project Hydrocarbon revenue is is expected to drive growth in expected to decline with lower oil DOHA: Nakilat Damen the second vessel, Al Kharsaah. metres, has a bollard pull of 45 the hydrocarbon sector, which is prices and crude oil production, Shipyards Qatar (NDSQ) has Both vessels performed excep- tonnes andcan travel at a speed expected to grow by 0.8 percent but this will be partly offset by delivered two new Qatari-built tionally well during the trials. of 12.6 knots. in 2015, 1.8 percent in 2016 and 1.9 higher non-hydrocarbon revenue, mooring tugs to towage opera- Both vessels will operate as Niels Tinsfeldt, Managing percent in 2017 despite declining oil supported by better corporate tax tor Nakilat SvitzerWijsmuller part of Nakilat NSW’s growing Director of NSW, said: “The production due to maturing oil fields. collection. percent in 2016 and 12.5 percent in (NSW). fleet. NSW currently operates Nakilat Damen Shipyards’ moor- The non-hydrocarbon sector is Bank lending is expected to 2017 on strong population growth The delivery of the two ASD over 30 vessels and performs ing tugs introduced to NSW rep- projected to continue its double- rise by 9.0 percent in 2015, 10.0 and higher non-hydrocarbon GDP. 2810 tugs is part of a seven-vessel 12,500 tug jobs per year. These resent a very agile and strong digit growth on large investments percent in 2016 and 11.0 percent The outlook for banking is order that the yard is currently vessels will join NSW’s existing supplement to the tug fleet at the in construction, financial services in 2017 increasingly driven by positive with low provisioning working on for NSW. The first vessels in the Port of Ras Laffan. LNG Port in Ras Laffan.” The first and real estate. project lending and the expand- requirements and efficient cost of the new tugs, named Umm Al They will be put to use assisting two Stan Tug 1606 mooring boats, The large influx of expatri- ing population. bases will support strong bank Shubrum, completed sea trials in ships entering and departing the Ras Al Allaj Qatar and Al Esaiwed, ate workers driven by major Deposits are projected to grow profitability. Ras Laffan in mid-January 2015. port. The Damen ASD 2810, 28 were delivered in August 2014. investment projects will add steadily by 11.3 percent in 2015, 11.5 THE PENINSULA She was followed in February by metres long with a beam of 10 THE PENINSULA

Qatar Exchange sheds 158.44 points; Dubai index falls Sweden moves to scrap budget DOHA: Qatar Stock Exchange points. Industries index dropped purchasing managers index (PMI) back from the property sector to strong and above the average for index closed 158.44 points, or the most, down 1.50 percent to data. Growth in the kingdom’s banks and petrochemicals which 2014, according to the HSBC PMI surplus goal 1.27 percent, lower when it 4,018.47 points while real estate non-oil private sector accelerated had traded nearly flat in the pre- survey. closed yesterday at 12,291.90 index falling 1.33 percent to to a four-month high in February vious few sessions. Petrochemicals Abu Dhabi’s market edged up STOCKHOLM: Sweden’s left- points from Monday’s position 2,416.93 points. as lavish handouts to citizens by giant Saudi Basic Industries rose 0.2 percent on the back of First wing government said yesterday of 12,450.34 points. Shares of 30 companies closed the new king buoyed the economy 1.4 percent as Brent oil recovered Gulf Bank, which rose 1.4 per- it wants to scrap the country’s The traded value decreased lower yesterday, nine gained while despite the plunge in oil prices, the some of Monday’s losses, jumping cent. The lender will pay a divi- budget-surplus target, aiming to QR406.49m with a volume two remained unchanged. SABB HSBC survey showed. two percent. dend of 1.00 dirham per share on to axe a policy that critics con- of 8,557,766 shares from 5,472 Meanwhile, other regional “The latest whole economy Alinma Bank, which will pay Thursday. Union National Bank, sider outdated. transactions compared with stock markets were mixed yes- PMIs from the Mena region pro- a dividend of 0.5 riyal per share which will make its annual payout The goal — to maintain a sur- QR509.16m with a volume of terday, guided by economic data vide further evidence that the fall next week, was the most traded of 0.25 dirham next week, jumped plus of one percent of GDP over 10,074,849 shares from 5,959 and dividends, while Egypt edged in oil prices hasn’t caused activ- stock and jumped 2.2 percent. 2.8 percent. Dubai’s index fell 0.8 each business cycle — was intro- transactions on Monday. up on the back of property stocks ity in the Gulf economies to col- Other Gulf markets were less percent as most stocks declined. duced by social-democrats in 1997 Indices of all sectors ended red after reports about plans to build lapse, as some had feared,” Jason positive. In the United Arab Builder Arabtec, which has not to offset the future burden of an zone barring transport which a new $80bn capital city from Tuvey, Middle East economist at Emirates, business activity yet commented on media reports ageing population. gained 0.76 percent (2,490.01 scratch. London-based Capital Economics, growth in the non-oil private saying its $40bn Egyptian project After Sweden earned a reputa- points) to continue its Monday’s Saudi Arabia’s main stock said in a note. sector slowed to a five-month has stalled again, fell 0.7 percent. tion of solid fiscal management, gain of 1.24 percent to 2,471.25 index rose 1.1 percent after strong Investors’ attention shifted low in February but remained QNA/REUTERS the ruling coalition said it was time to reconsider the surplus target. “The idea was never that the public sector should run GWC wins GIL a budget surplus for eternity,” Ooredoo sees growth Prime Minister Stefan Loefven award for domestic and Finance Minister Magdalena Andersson wrote in the daily logistics service Dagens Nyheter. in B2B customer base They ordered a financial DOHA: Gulf Warehousing authority to consider a target of Company (GWC) received the DOHA: Ooredoo sees significant year-on-year growth up 10 per- balancing the budget and other internationally renowned GIL opportunities for growth across cent and B2B customers up 25 alternatives. Global Best Practices Award its business-to-business (B2B) percent. “In the long-term room will be for Leading Domestic Logistics customer base in the Mena However, with an estimated cleared to make needed public Service Provider of the Year region and Southeast Asia, said nine million companies present investments in infrastructure, 2015. GWC Director of Business the company in a press release. in its core markets of Algeria, housing, adaptation to climate Solutions Sunil Kambrath It seeking to tap the estimated Tunisia, Iraq, Kuwait, Qatar, change, research and education,” received the award presented $10bn market with an enhanced Indonesia, Oman and Myanmar, they added. by Frost and Sullivan at an strategy unveiled yesterday Ooredoo is looking to build upon Andersson, who entered office award ceremony in Dubai. at Mobile World Congress in its leadership position in the com- in October, had accused her cen- The Frost and Sullivan GIL Barcelona, Spain. ing years. tre-right predecessor of leaving Global Best Practices Awards At Mobile World Congress, Dr Nasser Marafih, Group the public coffers empty after celebrated their sixth consecutive Ooredoo has a special M2M dem- CEO, Ooredoo, said: “Ooredoo tax cuts, preventing new public year in 2015, bringing together a onstration area showcasing some of is aiming to make 2015 a year investments. global network of thinkers, vision- the cutting-edge solutions already of ‘smart solutions’ and in par- The surplus goal “played an aries and thought leaders. being implemented by the Group, ticular we are targeting growth important role for many years. It “Over the last ten years, GWC including new innovations for the in the B2B sector. After signifi- doesn’t any more,” economist Klas has grown to play an integral role energy, transport and financial cant investment in bigger, faster Eklund at SEB bank said. within Qatar’s economy, aiding sectors. It will also display the lat- networks, and the development of multiple developmental projects est generation of “smart solutions.” key infrastructure such as data Canada economy of government agencies and min- The company already has centres, Ooredoo is ideally posi- istries, major corporations and a strong presence in the B2B tioned to be the business part- grew 0.6pc in Q4 new SME startups,” said Sunil market, generating more than ner of choice in the Middle East, Kambrath. $1bn revenue from B2B serv- North Africa and Southeast Asia.” OTTAWA: Canada’s economy THE PENINSULA Sunil Kambrath receiving the award. ices in 2014, with nine-month THE PENINSULA grew 0.6 percent in the fourth quarter as households boosted their expenditures, the gov- ernment statistical agency said yesterday. Gross domestic product (GDP) Oil price decline dents Total fourth quarter profits beat analysts’ expectations but was still down from the previous quarter’s 0.8 percent growth. DOHA: Total’s Board of Given the current economic its profitability target one year its 2012-14 asset sale program cash flow and reducing its Expressed at an annualised Directors, under the chairman- environment the company rec- ahead of schedule and reported a and plans to accelerate the breakeven point, and for the rate, GDP expanded 2.4 percent, ship of Thierry Desmarest, ognised after-tax impairments remarkable set of results thanks execution of its 2015-17 asset medium term confirms its growth said Statistics Canada. reviewed the Group’s fourth of about $6.5bn at the end of to the success of its restructuring sale programme. As the first strategy.” Car prices dropped, but upkeep quarter accounts. CEO Patrick the year, essentially related to program and strong operational international company to enter The ROACE for the Group was cost more with increases in the Pouyanné said: “After a long Canadian oil sands, unconven- performance. the new ADCO concession in 11.1 percent in 2014, a decrease of price of fuel and lubricants, spare period of stability of around tional gas, notably in the US, After delivering on its commit- Abu Dhabi, Total demonstrates 1.9 percentage points compared to parts and accessories for vehi- $110 per barrel, oil prices fell and refining in Europe. ment to reduce expenditures in its ability to access resources 2013. Return on equity was 13.5 cles, as well as maintenance and dramatically in the second half The upstream segment 2014, all of the group’s segments under good conditions and cre- percent in 2014, compared to 14.9 repairs. Water, electricity, gas of 2014, ending the year at $55 returned to growth with the are expanding their cost-cutting ate strong partnerships in a percent in 2013. and insurance costs were also up. per barrel. In this context, Total start-up of its deep-offshore programmes to get through this strategic region. In response to the recent fall in Business investment in machinery generated adjusted net results of CLOV field in Angola in the sec- period, with no compromise on Financial strength and abil- the oil price, Total has launched and equipment decreased after two $12.8bn, a decrease of 10 percent ond half of 2014. The refining the absolute priority to safety. ity to adapt, the group is focused an ambitious mitigation plan. consecutive quarterly increases. compared to the previous year. & chemicals segment achieved Total successfully completed for the short-term on generating THE PENINSULA AGENCIES WEDNESDAY 4 MARCH 2015 BUSINESS www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 19

Sterling inches Talk of third higher after construction Greek bailout survey report LONDON: Sterling rose yes- terday after a survey of con- struction managers came in better than expected, reinforc- gains ground ing a brighter economic start to a year that also features politi- cal uncertainty. Growth in the industry reached Eurozone ministers to meet next week a four-month high in February, the data showed, although build- BRUSSELS: Fresh talk of a next week, “are not discuss- ing companies hired staff at the third international bailout for ing any third aid programme,” slowest pace in more than a year. debt-hit Greece spread through Simone Boitelle, spokeswoman A gilt auction, while poorly European capitals yesterday, for Eurogroup chairman Jeroen bid, also helped the premium in despite Brussels insisting it was Dijsselbloem, said. British government yields over far too soon to start discussing The European Commission also their German counterparts to rise. any new rescue package. poured cold water on the suggestion. On 10-year debt, it reached 146 Speculation mounted on “Any discussions on details, condi- basis points. By late afternoon in Monday when Spain’s finance tions and a possible follow-up agree- London, sterling was up just under minister Luis de Guindos said EU ment are premature,” European 0.1 percent at 72.75 pence per euro, officials estimated a third bailout Commission spokeswoman Annika near Monday’s seven-year low of of up to ¤50bn ($55bn) would be Breidthardt told a daily briefing. 72.35. Against the dollar, it gained needed to keep Greece afloat and Tsipras has repeatedly refused The Huawei Ascend Mate2 4G mobile telephone with an Android operating system is displayed at the annual 0.2 percent to $1.5388. avoid a painful exit from the euro. a new bailout, insisting that what Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, Nevada. “Sentiment for the pound is pos- The European Commission Greece really needs is a radical itive this year,” said Jake Trask, vice-president for the euro, Valdis restructuring of a crushing debt a corporate dealer with broker Dombrovskis, also hinted at a mountain which amounts to Huawei plans big push in US market and currency payment company new bailout following the current around 175 percent of the coun- UKForex in London. “However, the four-month extension, saying in try’s annual economic output. uncertainty over the result of the an interview with Bloomberg on Even the bailout extension that SAN FRANCISCO/ approach to marketing as it tries countries including the US. General Election is causing a head- Monday: “Greece may need an his government agreed to caused BEIJING: Two years after U S to shed its image as a purveyor Huawei now intends to appeal wind for the construction sector, additional arrangement after this trouble within the ranks of his legislators branded it a national of cheap technology products - directly to consumers with sev- leading to some building companies programme expires.” hard-left Syriza party. security threat, China’s Huawei a common perception issue for eral new phone models, both delaying spending decisions.” A fresh rescue package would Greece would prefer a credit Technologies Co Ltd is planning many Chinese companies. It’s an low end and high end. It hopes Sterling has been the strong- be a major U-turn for Greece’s line with some reform conditions a campaign to win over US con- important shift for a company to secure deals with carriers, est performer of the G10 group of new hard-left Prime Minister attached, officials said. sumers, rolling out new mobile that for years had been single- selling online through market- developed world currencies over Alexis Tsipras, who swept to In a positive sign, the European phones and wearable devices mindedly focused on engineering places, such as the one oper- the past month, fuelled by expec- power in January on the promise Bank for Reconstruction and backed by a marketing effort. and relatively dismissive of con- ated by Amazon.com, and on its tations interest rates will rise in that Athens would leave the era Development (EBRD) announced China’s second-largest smart- sumer branding. own fledgling gethuawei.com US the next year. of bailouts and their associated Tuesday that it would begin fund- phone maker, already with more In December, it touted its new direct-sales website. But an election in May could austerity measures. ing critically needed investment than $40bn in annual revenue Honor 6 Plus phone on a billboard It’s unclear how open the car- give half a dozen parties some Greece had two international in Greece until 2020. from a wide range of telecom in New York’s Times Square. riers, who dominate US sales, influence on the shape of the next bailouts in 2010 and 2012 worth But the signs in Europe have gear and products, is preparing Plummer said that was “a sign of would be to carrying phones from government. Swedish bank SEB ¤240bn — which staved off bank- increasingly pointed to another to introduce Americans to several things to come.” Huawei, a brand that remains pointed to the limited impact of ruptcy and kept the country in full-on programme managed by of its smartphones and wearable He declined to say how much unknown to the majority of previous UK elections on sterling the euro, but at the cost of pun- Greece’s creditors, even if not in devices this year, including its Huawei will spend on its new American smartphone users. but also argued that this time ishing economic reforms. the current ‘troika’[ format of the youth-oriented “Honor” phone, marketing campaign or what Still, the US market is domi- may be different. “Considering the The European Union was keen EU, International Monetary Fund Huawei officials said. sports team, or teams, it had in nated by Apple Inc and Samsung market’s reaction to the Scottish to play down talk of any new bail- and European Central Bank. The company’s 2015 US plans, mind. It already sponsors London Electronics. None of the four independence referendum last out, insisting that it was still final- Talk of a new programme which have not been previously soccer club Arsenal, cricket biggest US carriers — Verizon, year, we would hardly be surprised ising details of the four-month of ¤10bn has circulated since reported, will encompass tradi- teams in India and rugby clubs AT&T, Sprint or T-Mobile — cur- if, on this occasion, sterling were extension of Greece’s current last year. But it gathered pace tional advertising, online promo- in Australia. rently sell Huawei phones on their to react more negatively should EU-IMF programme until June, in recent days, with Germany’s tion and sports team sponsorships, At the Mobile World Congress websites and all declined to say the outcome remain this unclear which was agreed on last week. Rheinische Post newspaper float- said Huawei’s US spokesman Bill over the weekend in Barcelona, whether they have had talks with as May 7 approaches,” SEB ana- Eurozone finance ministers, ing a 20bn figure at the weekend. Plummer. Huawei took the wraps off a smart- the Chinese company. lyst Richard Falkenhall said. who are due to meet in Brussels AFP Huawei is changing its watch that will be sold in over 20 REUTERS REUTERS WEDNESDAY 4 MARCH 2015 20 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com BUSINESS

Tupras posts Calls mount for Malaysia fund probe 87pc jump in Transparency International wants financial crime investigated; 1MBD becomes liability for PM Q4 net, to lift output in 2015 KUALA LUMPUR: Anti- Malaysia called for a “full inves- financial transaction, in which influential power-broker in Najib’s partying with the likes of Paris graft watchdog Transparency tigation into the numerous alle- some of those involved in the deal ruling party, has also called for a Hilton. International yesterday joined gations of massive... financial say outright that PetroSaudi was full 1MDB audit. But Sarawak Report said the ISTANBUL: Turkish oil refiner mounting calls for Malaysia’s and commercial crime” involving to be used as a “front”. A Najib spokesman declined emails, which it published, indi- Tupras , owned by Koc Holding, prime minister to launch an 1MDB, the anti-graft organisa- Transparency said it feared comment on Transparency’s cate he in fact orchestrated the posted an 87 percent jump in investigation into a sovereign tion said in a statement. an investigation “may uncover a statement. His office has previ- PetroSaudi deal. 1MDB released a fourth-quarter profit, helped by wealth fund hit by reports It made specific mention of a plethora of larger issues such as ously denied any wrongdoing by statement Sunday saying it “notes higher refining margins. of murky deals and missing report this past weekend alleging corporate crime, embezzlement, the prime minister. with concern” the latest allega- Net profit was 213m lira millions. $700 million were diverted from corruption, misappropriation, Najib, who is also finance min- tions, but declined requests for ($84.7m) in the last three months The state-backed fund, a shadowy 2009 deal between mismanagement of funds, inap- ister, said at the weekend that if further comment. of the year, compared with 114m 1Malaysia Development Bhd 1MDB and a little-known Saudi propriate decision-making and any misdeeds are proven, the per- Adding to Najib’s woes, a recent lira in the same period of 2013, (1MDB), has quickly emerged energy firm, PetroSaudi. unethical behaviour, including petrators would face justice, but New York Times investigative according to a filing late yesterday. as a major liability for premier The expose by Sarawak Report, and not limited to misuse of pub- he has so far not answered the piece alleged huge wealth in his The company had been Najib Razak, who championed a UK-based activist site that lic office.” growing clamour for an investiga- entourage and multi-million-dol- expected to post a net 155m its launch in 2009 and chairs its focuses on Malaysian corruption Malaysia’s opposition has been tion. His long-ruling government lar purchases of luxury US real lira, according to a poll of seven board of advisors. allegations, said the money was demanding Najib and 1MDB is routinely accused by critics of estate by shell companies linked brokerages. 1MDB is widely reported to be sent to a company controlled by clarify the fund’s dealings and using its tight grip on power to to Low. These included homes “In the fourth quarter, struggling to pay off more than an associate of Najib’s family, a whether money was syphoned dodge accountability on recurring purchased by Riza Aziz, Najib’s increased maintenance globally, $11bn in debt, raising fears it high-rolling Malaysian financier off to benefit those close to the scandals. stepson, the newspaper said. unplanned refinery outages could collapse and wreak havoc named Jho Taek Low. premier. 1MDB has previously denied Najib’s office has said the report and slowing supply, along with on Malaysia’s financial system. It cited what it said were leaked Former prime minister any links to Malaysian financier raised “false allegations.” quickly falling crude oil prices, Transparency International emails leading up to the complex Mahathir Mohamad, still an Low, who has been photographed AFP saw Mediterranean refining mar- gins (widen),” Tupras said in an e-mailed statement. Full-year profit was 22 percent Taiwan tells Alibaba to quit higher at 1.46bn lira, while sales declined three percent to 39.7bn Turkish inflation rate lira, it said. “Despite a 55m lira provision against a tax fine, forex-related gains ... of 88m lira was the main edges up in February reason for the outperformance on the bottom line,” said analysts at ISTANBUL: Turkish inflation measured rate cut at the March Deniz Invest in a note. rose slightly less than expected MPC if global risk appetite and Looking ahead, Tupras said it in February but remained sig- the dollar-lira rate allows,” said expects production to hit 27.5m nificantly above the central Is Invest economist Muammer tonnes in 2015, or 95 percent of bank’s target, limiting its room Komurcuoglu. capacity usage, once its $2.7bn to make the deep interest rate In the minutes of its latest residuum upgrade project (RUP) cuts demanded by President meeting, the bank said it expected is fully commissioned this month. Tayyip Erdogan. core inflation to continue to fall Output was 21 million tonnes last Seeking to boost flagging growth and it would use policy tools to year. ahead of a June general election, support the economy if an addi- Tupras said it will invest Erdogan has warned that defending tional slowdown in external another $60m to complete the high interest rates amounts to trea- demand pulled inflation lower. RUP, part of total investments of son, ratcheting up pressure on the The central bank trimmed all $220m this year. central bank and telling Governor of its main interest rates last The company sees benchmark Erdem Basci to “shape up”. month as inflation fell, but drew Brent crude trading this year Consumer prices rose 0.71 fire from a government seeking between $60 and $65 per barrel, percent month-on-month in to boost growth ahead of a parlia- with its own net refinery margins February, statistics institute data mentary election in June for not between $3.70-$4.50 per barrel, showed on Tuesday, just below a cutting them sharply enough. the filing also said. Reuters poll forecast of 0.75 per- “We continue to expect the Shares rose 0.28 percent to cent. On an annual basis they rose Turkish Central Bank to cut by Alibaba Group Executive Chairman Jack Ma (centre) talks to students at the National Taiwan University in 53.70 lira, while the main stock to 7.55 percent from 7.24 percent 25 basis points in March,” said Taipei yesterday. Taiwan has ordered Alibaba Group Holding Ltd to withdraw from the country within six index was up 0.7 percent. in January. BGC Partners chief economist months because the online retailer had violated investment rules required for a Chinese company, an eco- REUTERS Economists said the data Ozgur Altug. nomics ministry official said yesterday. showed there was probably room “The question is whether politi- for a small interest rate cut in cians will be happy with this... We March but this was unlikely to be do not think so. So in any case, deep enough to satisfy Erdogan. we believe that just ahead of and Concerns about central bank after the MPC meeting the lira Big US banks batten down as tighter curbs loom independence have unsettled might be under pressure,” he said, investors and the lira weakened forecasting 2015 inflation of 6.9 to a fresh record low yesterday, percent. The central bank holds NEW YORK: Faced with the banking industry is also jetti- institutions, considered a risk to a risk-based capital surcharge. partly due to US dollar strength its next policy-setting meeting on increased regulation beginning soning lucrative assets and is try- the financial system. Under the proposal, the central ut also because the data added to March 17. in 2017, the major US banks are ing to shrink certain deposits by The Basel III global regulations bank could prevent the banks from concerns about pressure on the Dollar strength and central taking a number of restructur- charging institutional clients a fee require banks to reinforce their paying out dividends or repurchas- central bank as it showed inflation bank worries pushed the lira to ing steps, shedding staff and to hold them, a move JPMorgan own capital buffers, both in quality ing shares if the failed to comply. sharply above its 5 percent target. a record 2.5327 from 2.5120 ear- some speculative businesses, announced last week. and in quantity, to represent a min- “We want to pay our share- The weakness of the lira, lier. The main share index fell and cutting bonuses. Goldman Sachs is scaling back imum seven percent of their assets holders. We want to pay divi- energy price rises and poor 0.29 percent and the benchmark Taking a machete to expenses, holdings in investment funds and at all times. That formula means, dends, buybacks in a balanced weather helped drive monthly 10-year bond yield fell to 8.23 banks are speeding up disinvest- private-equity firms, a Goldman for example, that for every $100 way,” JPMorgan spokesman Brian inflation, which was led by a 2.59 from 8.42 percent. ments, trimming administrative spokesman said. lent, $7 is the bank’s own money. Marchiony said. percent increase for food and Speaking on his plane travelling budgets and turning to automa- Morgan Stanley is lowering its Both the US central bank, Bank of America, in its 2014 non-alcoholic drinks and a 1.77 to Saudi Arabia at the weekend, tion to replace employees in a profile in commodity and foreign- the Federal Reserve, and the annual report, said: “We continue percent transport price rise. Erdogan told reporters he would broad array of banking opera- exchange trading and has put its Financial Stability Board want a to wind down our global principal But economists pointed to a hold talks with Basci but did not tions, including online. oil trading unit on the market, pre- bigger buttress. investments operations.” decline in annual core inflation, say when. Basci had on Friday The largest US bank in terms ferring to focus on wealth manage- The FSB is seeking to require Under the so-called Volcker which excludes elements such dismissed rumours he would quit. of assets, JPMorgan Chase, plans ment, a business with fewer risks. major global banks that are con- rule in the Dodd-Frank Wall as food and energy prices, to Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu to save nearly $5bn by 2017, and is Regulators have tougheneda sidered systemically important to Street reform law, US banks are 7.73 percent from 8.63 percent said late on Monday that the res- closing 300 bank branches. their standards in a bid to avoid hold a minimum capital cushion barred from proprietary trading, a month earlier as a positive ignations of either Basci or Ali In 2014, Goldman Sachs’s pay a repetition of the 2008 financial of 16-20 percent of their risk- or trading with their own funds. development. Babacan, deputy prime minister fell to the lowest level since the crisis that forced the US and other weighted assets, or Total Loss The aim is to prevent the kind “The central bank could point in charge of the economy, were prestigious Wall Street invest- governments to bail out banks. Absorbency Capacity. of excessive speculative behaviohr to the continued improvement “out of the question”. ment bank went public in 1999. In their cross-hairs are the As for the Fed, it wants eight that threatens their stability. in core indicators and go for a REUTERS To meet regulators’ demands, famous “too big to fail” financial major US banks to be subject to AFP

Sharp seeks new funds Barclays bank slides into net loss

LONDON: Barclays fell into a Serious Fraud Office and the 12 percent to £5.5bn in 2014. net loss last year, the British Financial Conduct Authority have Jenkins launched plans in bank said yesterday, hit by huge launched probes into the alleged May to shrink Barclays’ invest- costs linked to its alleged role in manipulation of the £3-trillion-a- ment bank in a radical restruc- the rigging of foreign exchange day forex market. turing which will axe 19,000 jobs markets. “We remain focussed on across the group by 2016, as he Barclays reported a loss after addressing outstanding con- shakes up the scandal-tainted tax of £174m ($268m) for 2014 duct issues, including those company. compared with a net profit of relating to Foreign Exchange The Libor scandal meanwhile £540 million the previous year. trading,” chief executive Antony erupted when Barclays was fined It has set aside £1.25bn “for Jenkins said in Tuesday’s results £290 million in 2012 by British ongoing investigations and statement. and US regulators for attempted litigation relating to Foreign “I regard the behaviour at the manipulation of Libor and Exchange”, including £750m centre of these investigations as Euribor interbank rates between for the final quarter of 2014, wholly incompatible with our 2005 and 2009. the bank said in an earnings values, and I share the frustra- The scandal sparked the resig- statement. tion of colleagues and share- nations of three Barclays senior Barclays had announced in holders that matters like these board members, including ex- October a provision of £500 mil- continue to cast a shadow over chief executive Bob Diamond, who lion for any eventual costs and our business.” was formerly head of the invest- fines linked to the probes. Barclays, which has been ment bank unit. The latest announcement plagued by scandals in recent Euribor is the eurozone equiva- from Barclays — which was at years, set aside another £200 lent of Libor, and interbank rates the heart also of the 2012 Libor million for compensation costs are the rates at which banks lend interest-rate rigging scandal arising from the mis-selling of to each other. A shopper rides an escalator past advertisements for Sharp Corp’s electronics products at an electronics — comes as global regulators payment protection insurance. The Libor rate is a benchmark shop in Tokyo yesterday. Japan’s loss-making Sharp Corp will seek new funds for further restructuring from investigate the alleged rigging of The bank added yesterday on which are based vast numbers its two main lenders, a source with direct knowledge of the matter said, with a debt-to-equity swap seen by foreign exchange markets around that adjusted pre-tax profit — of financial contracts around the bankers as the most feasible option. the world. after stripping out charges and world. In Britain, watchdogs the other exceptional items — rose AFP WEDNESDAY 4 MARCH 2015 BUSINESS VIEWS www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 21

US refinancing boom seen Despite Greece, eurozone fizzling, bonds show BY JODY SHENN is turning the corner HE great American refinancing boom of 2015 is turning out to be greatly exaggerated. In January, concern mounted BY PAUL TAYLOR periphery of the euro area, involving real imbalances that have led sceptics to predict among US mortgage-bond holders that homeowner refi- wage, pension and public spending cuts and the euro’s demise. Ireland and Spain, which Tnancing was about to soar, decreasing the value of their HE latest episode of Greece’s mass unemployment that has caused deep have been through the wringer of auster- securities. Their worries were short-lived. Last month, premiums debt crisis has revived doubts social distress. Austerity has fuelled radical ity programmes and structural reforms in fell on bonds backed by loans unlikely to refinance. That means about the long-term survival forces of political protest and may be run- return for European assistance, are now the investors saw less need for protection against the risk borrowers of the euro, nowhere more so ning out of democratic road — not just in fastest growing economies in the currency would repay their mortgages early. than in London, Europe’s main Greece — but none of the alternative ways bloc. Portugal too is perking up. The drop in interest rates that helped fuel a January surge financial centre and a hotbed out of the euro zone’s economic divergence German wages are rising faster than prices, in refinancing applications has reversed, with the cost of a 30- Tof Euroscepticism. The heightened risk of dilemma looks remotely plausible. giving a boost to consumer spending and rais- year mortgage rising 6 percent over the past three weeks from a Greek default and/or exit comes just as Germany has so far been unwilling to ing the prospect that inflation in the bloc’s a 20-month low. That sparked higher demand in the $5.6 trillion there are signs that the eurozone is turning see either higher inflation, debt forgive- biggest economy may outpace the rate in market for government-backed mortgage bonds, and refinancing the corner after seven years of financial and ness, issuing common euro zone bonds or southern Europe for several years. That would levels are expected to stay low for the foreseeable future. economic crisis and that its perilous internal cross-border fiscal transfers. There is scant make economic adjustment more symmetri- When rates rise, “the prepayment concern is not all that rel- imbalances may be starting to diminish. support anywhere for closer political and cal, and less agonising for the south. evant”, said David Land, a bond manager at St. Paul, Minnesota- To sceptics, the election of a radical left- economic integration of the euro area. There are also signs that France and Italy, based Advantus Capital Management, which oversees about $33bn. ist-led government in Athens committed to “The strategy of the euro zone has been to the euro zone’s second and third largest econo- While the bond market celebrates, it’s bad news for lenders, tearing up Greece’s bailout looks like the wait for something to turn up,” says a senior mies, are finally tackling some of the economic homeowners and companies hoping for an economic boost from start of an unravelling of the 19-nation cur- figure in the British financial establishment, reforms that politicians long feared to touch, consumers with more cash to spend each month. Total mortgage rency area, with southern countries rebel- who observed the eurozone crisis from close albeit at a slow and gradual pace. production, for purchases and refinancing, will probably total about ling against austerity while EU paymaster up but outside. “In the 1930s, World War French President Francois Hollande’s $1.2 trillion this year, and the same in 2016, Kevin Watters, head Germany rebels against further aid. Two turned up. Maybe something else will government has just rammed through a bill of JPMorgan Chase & Co’s mortgage unit, said last week. A last-ditch deal to extend Greece’s bail- turn up,” he said. to loosen some shackles on business such as Last year, mortgage originations tumbled 34 percent to a 13-year out for four months after much kicking and The European Central Bank has acted at Sunday trading and plans new steps to ease low of $1.24 trillion, with refinancings accounting for 42 percent of screaming between Athens and Berlin did key moments to hold the euro zone together, labour regulation. Italian Prime Minister the total, down from 64 percent in 2013, according to newsletter little to ease fears that the euro zone’s weak- vowing in 2012 to do “whatever it takes” to Matteo Renzi has introduced a jobs act to Inside Mortgage Finance. est link may end up defaulting on its official save the currency and now launching a mas- ease hiring and firing and is making progress With the flurry of activity at the start of this year now passed, European creditors. sive programme of buying government bonds on reform to streamline parliament and the lenders will have to focus more on loans for purchase. Refinancing US economist Milton Friedman’s apho- to spur the economy and avert deflation. electoral system. applications, which had soared 84 percent in the final three weeks rism — “What is unsustainable will not be ECB action can only buy time for govern- Another encouraging sign is that lending of January from their 2014 average, according to Mortgage Bankers sustained” — is cited frequently by those who ments to implement structural economic to businesses in Italy and Spain is picking Association data, have subsequently fallen 30 percent. believe market forces will eventually over- reforms that could close the competitiveness up following last year’s ECB stress tests of “The refinance business will shrink and the purchase market whelm the political will that holds the euro gap by raising potential growth over time. European banks and their interest rates are really needs to come back strong in order for us to reach the $1.2 together. Countries that share a single cur- But countries like France and Italy largely falling, narrowing the gap with the euro zone trillion level and stay there,” Watters said. Average rates on typical rency cannot devalue when their economies failed to use that breathing space in 2013- core. A Greek default or exit from the euro new 30-year mortgages rose to 3.8 percent last week, after falling lose competitiveness, as occurred in south- 14 to shake up labour markets, pension and zone — whether by “Grexident” or intention from as high as 4.23 percent in September to 3.59 percent in the ern Europe in the first decade of the euro’s welfare systems. — could shatter that returning trust, even period ended February 5, according to Freddie Mac. Economists existence. There is no mechanism for large Yet things can go right as well as wrong. though Athens accounts for just two per- surveyed by Bloomberg expect benchmark bond yields that drive fiscal transfers between member states. A nascent cyclical recovery in the euro cent of the bloc’s economy. So Greece’s fate borrowing costs to increase further as the year progresses. So the only option has been a wrenching zone, aided by lower oil prices, a weaker euro remains entwined with the euro’s survival. “The difference between a 3.75 percent and 4 percent rate is the “internal devaluation” by countries on the and ECB money-printing, may narrow the REUTERS equivalent of feast and famine for the refinancing market,” Scott Buchta, the head of fixed-income strategy at Brean Capital, wrote in a note to clients. Rising rates also may offset the impact of lower fees charged by the Federal Housing Administration, according to an online tool created by the Urban Institute. President Barack Obama touted that step in his State of the Union address. At mortgage rates of 4 percent, probably 1.4 million FHA borrowers could benefit from new loans after the fee change, compared with 2.4 million at 3.66 percent, the tool shows. Comments by Federal Housing Finance Agency Director Melvin Watt on February 4 that he has no plans to expand the terms of the Home Affordable Refinancing Program also gave a boost to the market. HARP, which expires at the end of this year, allows borrowers with loans backed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to get streamlined refinancing even if their homes have lost value. Government-backed mortgage bonds are sensitive to swings in how fast homeowners refinance or move before their loans’ terms are over. That can cause debt trading for more than face value to pay off more quickly at par, and curb interest payments. Refinancing concerns in January fuelled the worst returns on the securities relative to Treasuries since 2008, an underperform- ance of almost 1 percentage point, according to Bank of America Merrill Lynch index data. The debt outperformed by more than 0.5 percentage point last month. “This market has had an amazing track record of being bailed out by the rates market,” said Nikolay Stoytchev, a managing director at hedge-fund firm Ellington Management Group, referring in particular to more complex notes known as interest- only tranches, or IOs, that concentrate prepayment risk. Still, January offered a glimpse at “the underlying fragility” of the investment strategies of some other funds betting on limited refinancing, he said. While Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac IOs values recovered most of their losses, Ginnie Mae IOs with exposure to FHA loans remain weaker, he said. Ellington managers are focusing mostly on IOs tied to borrowers with strong credit and home equity who can easily refinance if rates drop, because they know what to expect, Stoytchev said. The firm is avoiding securities in which prepayments could be boosted by policy changes, higher property prices or looser credit, seeing those possibilities as under-appreciated, he said. WP-BLOOMBERG Cartoon Arts International / The New York Times Syndicate

Saudi King keeps close hand on oil with new strategic team

BY RANIA EL GAMAL and makes its oil decisions or diminish Saudi Arabia has had only four in mind for Abdulaziz, however, finance ministers, Al Nuaimi and say the new council is likely to be ANGUS MCDOWALL the influence of veteran oil min- oil ministers since 1960, and none it seems clear that his son will Aramco’s chief. more involved in setting domestic ister Ali bin Ibrahim Al Nuaimi. of them has been a royal. The remain a core component of the But in one of his first acts as energy policies rather than any- AUDI Arabia’s subtle However, the King is clearly most prominent minister before kingdom’s energy team, along with monarch, King Salman abol- thing that affects the global oil change of energy poli- laying the ground for a gen- Al Nuaimi was Ahmed Zaki other key players such as Falih. ished that body and set up the market, which has seen the price cymaker line-up since erational shift in how Riyadh Yamani, who held the position Since his appointment as chief Supreme Council for Economic of Brent crude drop almost 50 the accession of the develops its energy and economic from 1962 to 1986. executive of the oil company in Development to take over its percent since June. Custodian of the Two strategies. “This would ensure But since Abdulaziz’s promo- 2009, Falih has been regarded as duties, as well as those of another It is too soon to tell what sort of SHoly Mosques King Salman bin that, whether it is a domestic pol- tion, some diplomatic and Saudi one of a handful of Saudi figures committee that focused on eco- influence Prince Mohammed will Abdulaziz Al Saud in late January icy through Prince Mohammed sources have suggested the whose views are closely watched by nomic reforms. wield over the council, or how far he appears to give the monarch’s and the economic council or prince’s lengthy experience in the traders and analysts for any insight The move was seen as an effort will defer to the advice of Al Nuaimi inner circle a firmer hand on the international oil policy through sector might overcome what has on the kingdom’s oil thinking. by the King to streamline policy- and his eventual successors. kingdom’s oil strategy than previ- Prince Abdulaziz, it is still very always been seen as the impossi- Al Nuaimi took the reins at the making by binning redundant However, by making royal court ous rulers have enjoyed. closely guided by the King him- bility of appointing a royal to the oil ministry after a long career committees that often included chief and defence minister Prince The most notable change was self,” said Sadad Al Husseini, a post of oil minister. at Aramco, pointing towards a the same officials and replicated Mohammed, his 35-year-old son, the promotion of the King’s son former senior executive at state Abdulaziz, who is in his mid-50s, path by which the ruling family each other’s work. The new coun- the new economic council’s chair- Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman, oil giant Saudi Aramco and now was appointed “deputy minister of keeps highly experienced tech- cil has 22 minister members, man, King Salman has given a long a member of the No. 1 crude an energy consultant. petroleum and mineral resources nical experts involved in wider including Al Nuaimi. relatively unknown official a big exporter’s Opec delegation, to the at the rank of minister”, according energy strategy. Saudi oil policy — especially voice in crafting Saudi oil policy. role of deputy oil minister from WHO’S NEXT IN LINE? to a royal decree on January 29. The exact mechanics of Saudi when it comes to relations with “He is a young minister and assistant oil minister, a post he There is little merit in speculat- “This has increased speculation decision-making have always the rest of the 12-member Opec, has the full trust of the king. He had held for many years. ing about when Al Nuaimi, who about whether this would mean been obscure, but there is a broad production and exports — is ulti- has also proven to be a pragmatic On the same day, King Salman turns 80 in August, will retire or Abdulaziz might be the next oil understanding that the King has mately decided by the King, mar- business leader. But being the formed a new body replacing the whom King Salman will choose to minister,” a diplomatic source said. the final say in a process that ket observers say. head of the new council does not Supreme Petroleum Council and replace him. Conventional think- “Before the promotion, the involves building consensus among But such decisions are based eliminate the role of the 22 min- appointed another son, Prince ing is that the ruling Al Saud fam- thinking was that it was proba- top royals based on the advice of mainly on recommendations and ister members,” said Mohammad Mohammed bin Salman, to head ily views the oil minister’s job as bly a 90 percent chance for Falih senior technocrats. consultations with the Ministry Al Sabban, a former senior adviser the new Supreme Council for so important that giving it to a and 10 percent for Abdulaziz,” the When it comes to oil, under the of Petroleum, top royals, senior to Al Nuaimi. Economic Development. prince might upset the dynasty’s source said, referring to Aramco late King Abdullah that process advisers and technocrats at other The decisions of the new eco- There are no indications that delicate balance of power and head Khalid Al Falih. “Now the involved the Supreme Petroleum related ministries such as finance nomic council “will most likely be those moves will lead to changes in risk making oil policy hostage to dialogue has shifted.” Council, which included the crown and foreign affairs. adopted by consensus”, he added. the fundamental way the kingdom princely politicking. Whatever King Salman has prince, the foreign, interior and Analysts and industry sources REUTERS WEDNESDAY 4 MARCH 2015 22 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com MARKET

QE Indices Summary QE Index 12,291.90 1.27 % WORLD STOCK INDICES GOLD & SILVER EXCHANGE QE Total Return Index 18,756.24 0.92 % QE Al Rayan Islamic Index 4,420.38 1.00 % RATE QE All Share Index 3,238.48 0.76 % INDEX Day’s Close Pt Chg % Chg Year High Year Low QE All Share Banks & Financial 3,296.46 0.52 % GOLD Buying Selling Services All Ordinaries 5902.873 -23.457 -0.4 5949.3 5248.5 QE All Share Industrials 4,018.47 1.50 % QR142.0096 US$ ...... QR 3.6305 QR 3.6500 QE All Share Transportation 2,490.01 0.76 % Cac 40 Index/D 4914.11 -3.21 -0.07 4951.48 4076.16 QE All Share Real Estate 2,416.93 1.33 % SILVER UK ...... QR 5.5574 QR 5.6353 QE All Share Insurance 4,125.72 0.06 % Dj Indu Average 18288.63 155.93 0.86 18288.6 15855.12 QR 1.9424 Euro ...... QR 4.0406 QR 4.0972 QE All Share Telecoms 1,433.36 0.39 % CA$ ...... QR 2.8866 QR 2.9433 QE All Share Consumer Goods & 7,268.78 0.29 % Hang Seng Inde/D 24702.78 -184.66 -0.74 25101.96 23312.5 Services Swiss Fr ...... QR 3.7653 QR 3.8177 QE Market Summary Comparison Iseq Overall/D 5943.97 -13.65 -0.23 5993.92 5072.7 Yen ...... QR 0.0301 QR 0.0307 Aus$ ...... QR 2.8216 QR 2.8778 Today Previous day Karachi 100 In/D 33188.77 -24.81 -0.07 35055.94 32134.82 CRUDE OIL 03-03-2015 02-03-2015 Ind Re ...... QR 0.0583 QR 0.0594 Index 12,291.90 12,450.34 Nikkei 225 Index 18815.16 -11.72 -0.06 18939.17 16592.57 Pak Re ...... QR 0.0354 QR 0.0363 Change 158.44 5.00 BRENT Peso ...... QR 0.0818 QR 0.0835 S&P 500 Index/D 0 0 0 2119.59 1814.36 % 1.27 0.04 $ 60.31 SL Re ...... QR 0.0271 QR 0.0280 YTD% 0.05 1.34 Straits Times/D 3422.11 18.22 0.54 3458.14 3267.89 Taka ...... QR 0.0464 QR 0.0473 Volume 8,557,766 10,074,849 DUBAI Nep Re ...... QR 0.0366 QR 0.0373 Value (QAR) 406,496,404.43 509,163,340.76 Straits Times/D 3290.99 -1.82 -0.06 3387.84 2953.01 SA Rand ...... QR 0.3059 QR 0.3121 Trades 5,472 5,959 $ 58.08 Up 09 | Down 30 | Unchanged 02 Straits Times/D 3274.06 -8.82 -0.27 3291.83 2953.01

QATAR EXCHANGE | DAILY TRADING REPORT | 03-03-2015

INTERNATIONAL MARKETS A List of Shares from the world

COMPANY CLOSE NET VOLUME Volume COMPANY CLOSE NET VOLUME Volume COMPANY CLOSE NET VOLUME Volume COMPANY CLOSE NET VOLUME Volume COMPANY CLOSE NET VOLUME Volume COMPANY CLOSE NET VOLUME Volume NAME CHG TRADED NAME CHG TRADED NAME CHG TRADED NAME CHG TRADED NAME CHG TRADED NAME CHG TRADED A C C-A/D 1759.15 -5.2 18863 Cimmco-B/D 92.65 -2.3 71714 Goodricke-B/D 148.2 4 19589 Kajaria Cer-A/D 822.05 2.35 8178 Radico Khait-B/D 87.6 -0.4 41056 Imperial Tobac/D 3216 19 697406 Aban Offs-A/D 480.25 9.55 541177 Cipla-A/D 730.6 15.3 274979 Goodyear I -B/D 587 0.25 7072 Kakatiya Cem-B/D 134.8 3 6126 Rallis India-A/D 278.05 27.05 397247 Kingfisher/D 365.9 -3.8 2683824 Aegis Logis-B/D 436.7 14.4 3606 City Union Bk-/D 100.25 0.6 90548 Hcl Infosys-B/D 53.9 3.55 1744265 Kalpat Power-B/D 242.35 2.3 35614 Rallis India-A/D 278.05 27.05 397247 Land Secs Grou/D 1286 8 1313756 Ahmed.Forg-B/D 279.8 7.25 125681 Cmc Ltd-A/D 2086.8 73.85 13482 Him.Fut.Comm-T/D 17.35 2.05 3949613 Kalyani Stel-T/D 147.8 1.4 65175 Reliance Indus/D 464.2 12 164641 Legal & Genera/D 279 -1.2 2026918 Alembic-B/D 43.7 5.4 866061 Colgate-A/D 2007.65 35.6 18048 Himat Seide-B/D 86.6 4.75 89674 Kanoria Chem-B/D 38.95 1.1 16672 Ruchi Soya-B/D 45.7 1.5 210184 Lloyds Bnk Grp/D 79.74 -0.25 70845100 Alok Indus-A/D 8.67 -0.21 1712018 Container Cor-/D 1523.2 -17.65 4674 Hind Motors-T/D 7.7 -0.07 114039 Kg Denim-B/D 25.95 4.3 179896 S Bk Bikaner-B/D 625.85 -12.9 5629 Marks & Sp./D 511 1 989642 Apollo Tyre-A/D 179.15 0.5 451245 Dai-Tichi Kar-/D 153 -0.7 6711 Hind Org Chem-/D 17.9 0.05 16455 Kilburnengg-T/D 46.5 1 5988 Samtel-T/D 8.9 -0.1 3256 Next/D 7458.2 -55 61481 Asahi I Glass-/D 137 -0.4 19501 Dcm Financia-B/D 1.2 0.05 10096 Hind Unilever-/D 929.95 -5.3 67683 Kinetic Eng-B/D 46.25 -3.4 3665 Saur.Cem-B/D 41.65 0.4 37407 Pearson/D 1420 -4 678973 Ashok Leyland-/D 73.85 0.95 2153168 Dcm Shram Ind-/D 80.85 3 6083 Hind.Petrol-A/D 656.85 2.7 158387 Kopran-B/D 47.3 0.7 127727 Tanfac Indust-/D 18.95 -1.3 3569 Prudential/D 1628.5 7 919767 Bajaj Hold-A/D 1397.15 3.8 2360 Dhampur Sugar-/D 39.35 0 67949 Hindalco-A/D 158.3 1.8 259199 Lok.Hous&Con-B/D 12.29 -0.41 53895 Thirumalai-B/D 79.55 0.5 3703 Rentokil Initi/D 134.7 -2.2 508272 Ballarpur In-B/D 15 0.07 574586 Dr. Reddy-A/D 3410.25 26.25 50813 Hous Dev Fin-A/D 1364.15 26 132125 Lumax Ind-B/D 368.9 -0.1 2315 Til Ltd.-T/D 528.2 29.6 15786 Rolls Royce Pl/D 942.7204 7 3557496 Banaras Bead-B/D 37.5 -0.4 2427 E I H-B/D 108.45 -1.55 9887 I F C I-A/D 39 1.3 1251041 Lupin-A/D 1807.5 9.7 65045 Timexgroup-T/D 18.2 -0.4 64524 Rsa Insrance G/D 422.5 -11.8 1590938 Bata India-A/D 1261.65 -13.2 12265 E.I.D Parry-A/D 181 5.9 27780 Idbi-A/D 81.95 8.35 2362640 Lyka Labs-T/D 45.85 0.15 25617 Tinplate-B/D 64.8 5 370930 Sainsbury(J)/D 278.2 6.2 3023616 Bayer Crop-A/D 3399.9 2.4 2337 Eicher Motor-A/D 15891.3-624.55 12789 Ifb Agro-B/D 266.6 2.1 4386 Mafatlal Ind-B/D 169.9 5.2 3076 Ucal Fuel-B/D 120.7 -1.4 7095 Schroders/D 3070 0 54884 Beml Ltd-A/D 977.3 1.15 49900 Electrosteel-B/D 19 1.15 438931 Ifb Ind.Ltd.-B/D 503.25 -2.25 3097 Mah.Seamless-B/D 214.9 4.5 14299 Ultramarine-B/D 70.1 0.8 5970 Severn Trent/D 2005 -21 210602 Bh Electronic-/D 3638.5 -15.8 37553 Emco-B/D 39.05 0.05 30554 India Cement-A/D 107.4 -0.5 357248 Mangalam Cem-B/D 302.9 0.5 15522 Unitech P -A/D 20 -0.2 8969753 Smith&Nephew/D 1185 -14 1781069 Bhansali Eng-T/D 20 1.9 48094 Escorts Fin-B/D 4.95 0.02 9559 India Glycol-B/D 98.75 -2.25 29402 Maral Overs-B/D 31.95 3.1 41631 Univcable-T/D 44.4 -0.55 15412 Smiths Group/D 1176 6 398924 Bharat Bijle-B/D 696.25 12.25 5183 Escorts-A/D 139.25 3.4 794080 Indian Hotel-A/D 109.7 -1.8 68739 Mastek-B/D 439.5 -0.1 94892 Standrd Chart /D 980.7 0.4 4335767 Bhel-A/D 273.95 0.15 458167 Essar Oil-T/D 108.7 -0.85 38465 Indo-Tcount-T/D 429.1 34.4 33524 Max India L-A/D 473.3 2.6 109437 LONDON Tate & Lyle/D 588.0167 -5 477799 Bom.Burmah-B/D 485.3 43.3 253145 Eveready Indu-/D 229 6.6 107925 Indusind-A/D 937.45 -6.5 114872 Mrpl-A/D 63.7 0.65 84817 Tesco/D 248.25 1.55 8501256 Bombay Dyeing-/D 79.2 -1.8 532807 F D C-B/D 157 0.25 11500 J.B.Chemical-B/D 190 1.5 19127 Nahar Spg.-B/D 97.5 2.3 19569 3I Group/D 493.3 -3.7 369861 Unilever/D 2890 15 1174204 Camph.& All-B/D 270.3 10.7 10516 Federal Bank-A/D 150.2 0 231963 Jagson Phar-B/D 32.15 5.3 92546 Nation Alum -A/D 48.3 1.55 151191 Assoc.Br.Foods/D 3104 19 272752 United Util Gr/D 929 -16 844783 Canfin Homes-B/D 629.25 6.25 7805 Ferro Alloys-B/D 5.25 -0.12 54895 Jamnaauto-B/D 238.1 -7.6 24522 Navneet Edu-B/D 111.5 0.45 15360 Barclays/D 255.55 -7.2 38759504 Vodafone Group/D 225.5 0.8 17565290 Caprihans-B/D 82 7.45 11978 Fgp Ltd-B/D 2.3 0.06 2585 Jbf Indu-B/D 230 0.6 136234 Nepc India-T/D 2.69 -0.14 73722 Bg Group/D 951.4 2.9 3785421 Whitbread/D 5260.1432 -85 93825 Castrol India-/D 484.65 8.4 37488 Finolex-A/D 285.35 3.75 11520 Jct Elect P -B/D 0.52 -0.02 47630 Neuland Lab-B/D 346.9 24.8 14832 Bp/D 449.369 2.85 11371747 Century Enka-B/D 165.2 5.4 33505 Gail-A/D 408.55 -0.5 63993 Jct Ltd-B/D 3.4 -0.06 74152 Nrb Bearings-B/D 142 1 4669 Brit Am Tobacc/D 3775.5 19 791259 Century Text-A/D 557.05 -10.8 154795 Galada Power-T/D 27 -0.9 8837 Jenson&Nich.-B/D 5.01 -0.02 14301 O N G C-A/D 320.9 0.6 392049 Bt Group/D 453.925 -2.1 5271543 Chambal Fert-B/D 64.1 0.9 99725 Gammon India-T/D 23.2 -0.1 111249 Jik Indust-T/D 0.93 0.04 19557 Ocl India-B/D 475.4 -12.2 18490 Centrica/D 250.135 3.6 11417060 Chola Invest-B/D 601 18.15 17890 Garden P -B/D 28.4 -0.1 30147 Jktyre&Ind-B/D 118 1.2 194019 Oil Country-B/D 34.3 -0.15 3919 Gkn/D 361.3 -2 995700 Chowgule St-T/D 25.45 1.2 8482 Godfrey Phil-B/D 485 21.85 65172 Jmc Projects-T/D 183 7.7 17793 Orchid Chem-B/D 64.3 0.75 165648 Hsbc Holdings/D 584.38 1.4 11046134 WEDNESDAY 4 MARCH 2015 SPORT www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 23 F1: Alonso ruled out of Australian Grand Prix McLaren driver to miss season-opening race after crash

LONDON: Fernando Alonso The chances of him return- (pictured) will miss next week’s ing to the podium look remote season-opening Australian this time around, with McLaren The leader of the QSBK standings, Mishal Al Naimi of Qatar, in action Formula One Grand Prix on struggling in testing to get laps during the last round of racing in January. doctors’ advice after a heavy under their belt due to persistent crash in testing, the Spaniard’s troubles with the new V6 turbo McLaren team said yesterday. hybrid engine. “Fernando has understood and Alonso has not missed a race accepted that advice, and the since the 2005 US Grand Prix, Losail set to host two McLaren-Honda cars will which was boycotted for safety therefore be driven in Australia reasons by drivers whose cars by Fernando’s team-mate Jenson were equipped with Michelin Button and the team’s test and tyres after problems emerged in QSBK, QCH races reserve driver Kevin Magnussen,” practice. they said in a statement. McLaren said the doctors had Australia would have marked a recognised that the double world new start for Alonso at McLaren, champion felt fit and well, and this weekend who are also embarking on a new considered himself ready to race. engine partnership with Honda, “They are comfortable with the DOHA: The fifth round of the after five years at Ferrari. fact that he has already recom- Qatar SuperBike Championship However, the Spaniard spent menced physical training, with a (QSBK) and sixth round of the three nights in hospi- view to preparing for Qatar Challenge (QCH) will be tal last week after los- a return to the cockpit held under the floodlights of the ing control and hitting of his McLaren-Honda Losail International Circuit this the wall in testing in car for the Malaysian weekend. Barcelona on Feb. 22. Grand Prix meeting on Qatari rider Mishal Al Naimi McLaren said March 27th, 28th and is currently leading the QSBK the 33-year-old had 29th,” the team said. standings with 157 points and undergone more tests “Indeed, his doc- hopes to increase his lead over on Monday evening tors are supportive of Alex Cudlin, who is second with and been given the that ambition, satis- 134 points. all-clear. fied as they are that In the previous two rounds, “However, he sustained no dam- Moto2 rider Anthony West Fernando’s doctors have recom- age whatsoever during his testing notched up four victories and is mended to him that...for the time accident.” third place in the standings with The leader of the QCH standings, being he should seek to limit as Meanwhile, Williams test 100 points. German rider Nina Mark Holroyd, in action during the far as is possible any environ- driver Susie Wolff will take part Prinz is in fourth with 100 points. last round of racing in January. mental risk factors that could in Friday’s practice sessions at In the Supersport category, Mick Schumacher (left) shakes hands with Fritz van Amersfoort of Dutch potentially result in his sustaining this year’s British and Spanish the leader is Lebanese rider scheduled on Saturday at 7.35pm another concussion so soon after Grands Prix, the Formula One Mahmoud Tannir with 161 points and 10.10pm respectively. racing team Van Amersfoort, in Huizen, on Monday. Mick, the son of seven- his previous one,” they added. team said yesterday. followed by Qatar’s Jassim Al Before the sixth round of the time Formula One world champion Michael, will appear in Formula 4 from “In order to limit those envi- The Scot, wife of Mercedes Thani with 149 points. The previ- Qatar Challenge, Mark Holroyd April with Team Van Amersfoort. “He spent a full day in the simulator at ronmental risk factors, specifi- motor sport head Toto Wolff, ous round was won by Saudi rider is leading the championship and our headquarters in the Netherlands. Then we witnessed him during a test cally, his doctors have advised will also have a day of testing at Abdulaziz Binladin, who is fourth he has a lot of options to get session at Valencia and eventually, we reached an agreement to compete that he should not compete in the Red Bull Ring following the with 100 points. the championship in this round. together in this year’s ADAC Formula 4 series,” team chief van Amersfoort the imminent Australian Grand Austrian Grand Prix in June. For the Losail Asian Road Holroyd is leading with 111 points told the team’s website. The 15-year-old was second in the German kart Prix meeting.” Wolff had two free practice ses- Racing Series it will be the last and his nearest rival, Peter de championship last season. He will make his first appearance in Formula First practice for the March sions with Williams last season. round of the season. Hungarian Vido, is way behind on 66 points. 4, a series for young talents, at Oschersleben in northern Germany on 15 race in Melbourne starts on “Our focus this year is to build rider Victoria Kis is leading the QCH free practice and qualify- April 25 and 26, with the last race set for Hockenheim in October. The Friday, March 13. on the success of 2014 - I’ve been championship with 160 points. ing practices will be held at 7pm Schumacher family’s spokeswoman Sabine Kehm confirmed that Mick Denmark’s Magnussen raced training hard all winter and I am On Friday, QSBK free practice and 9pm on Friday. The race will would be quitting karting to focus on the single-seat category. Formula for McLaren last season, fin- physically in the best shape I’ve will be held at 4pm and 6.15pm be held at 8.45pm on Saturday. 4 was created last year as a championship for young drivers hoping to ishing second in Australia after ever been, so I am ready for the and qualifying practice will be Entry to the grandstand is free eventually take the step up to Formula One. local hero Daniel Ricciardo was season ahead,” she said in a state- at 8.15pm. The Superpole will for the public. disqualified for Red Bull. ment. AGENCIES be at 11.35pm. The two races are THE PENINSULA Mavericks’ balanced attack snaps Pelican’s win streak

DALLAS: The Dallas missed the game Dallas scored Dallas outscored New Orleans Mavericks had six players in for the Pelicans NBA Results half of its points 25-13 in the third and opened the double figures as they used a who were led by Toronto 114 Philadelphia 103 in the paint in the fourth with seven of the open- balanced scoring attack to snap Norris Cole’s 19 Brooklyn 110 Golden State 10 first quarter and ing nine points, with Nowitzki’s the New Orleans Pelicans’ five- points. Miami 115 Phoenix 98 led 32-31. three-pointer extending the lead game winning streak with a Dallas turned New Orleans to 87-73. LA Clippers 110 Minnesota 105 102-93 victory on Monday. the ball over answered on the The Pelicans got as close as Monta Ellis and Rajon Rondo just seven times, Dallas 102 New Orleans 93 perimeter, drain- six points three times, but Dallas combined for 39 points for the forced 13 turno- ing nine-of-17 held on as another Nowitzki three Mavericks, who ended a two- vers and dominated in the paint, from beyond the arc in the first pointer with two minutes left game losing skid of their own. 50-24. half, including a Gordon triple in helped seal the win. Ellis scored 20 and Rondo tallied Norris Cole led the Pelicans the final minute that gave them Meanwhile, Jarrett Jack 19 for Dallas, which shot 48 per- with 19 points, Eric Gordon fin- a 58-55 halftime lead. drained a foul-line jumper with cent from the field. ished with 18 and Tyreke Evans Dante Cunningham scored on one second remaining and Brook Richard Jefferson scored 16 added 17 for the Pelicans, who the opening possession of the Lopez scored a game-high 26 points, Dirk Nowitzki finished beat the Mavs by three in New third quarter, but the Pelicans points off the bench to lead the with 14 points and eight rebounds, Orleans on January 25 to snap a missed their next dozen shots. Brooklyn Nets to their second and Amar’e Stoudemire and nine-game series losing streak. Dallas engineered a 16-0 surge to straight win, a 110-108 upset Norris Cole (#30) of the New Orleans Pelicans passes the ball against Devin Harris scored 14 apiece in Alexis Ajinca posted the lone take the lead for good. The run victory over the Golden State Monta Ellis (#11) of the Dallas Mavericks at the American Airlines Center the win. double-double of the night with was highlighted by Jefferson’s Warriors. Deron Williams also in Dallas on Monday night. All-star centre Anthony Davis 13 points and 12 rebounds. seven points. scored 22 points. AGENCIES Pinoy Mountain Bikers of Qatar marathon

The Pinoy Mountain Bikers of Qatar (PMTB-Qatar), a Filipino organisation promoting and supporting mountain bike events in the Gulf state, conducted the Riding in Tandem (Team Doubles) XC Marathon on the trail near the perimeter wall of the Losail International Circuit last Friday. The event was part of the PMTB-Qatar Team Workx Race project and was held with the support of PMTB-Qatar’s major sub groups — Team Pogi and Al Ahli Boys and Girls. Besides promoting teamwork and camaraderie, the race was organised to raise money for Ernest Benedict Bautista, a member of the Beatz and Bytes dance group, who needs a liver transplant in the Philippines. The collected funds will be handed over to his parents on March 27. Abdulaziz Al Kuwari, founder of Qatar Cyclist, was also there to give an inspiring message before the race. “We are happy to see the community of MTB growing rapidly, thanks to the efforts of the cycling community. We are very proud to support this well organised race,” Al Kuwari said. Altogether 152 riders took part in the well-attended event. Representatives from sponsors like, College of North Atlantic Qatar, Magic Shine, Skate Shack, Al Rayyan Water, Graphitees, Amazing Waffles, Al Majid Jawad, and Al Dar Optics were also present. Winners of the three categories, Elite Class (3laps/75km), Weekend Warriors (2laps/50km), Novice Class (1lap/25km) were awarded by Ferhan Al Sayed, Founder of Qatar Extreme Sports, and Richard Billedo, Cultural Attaché of The Philippine Embassy in Qatar. WEDNESDAY 4 MARCH 2015 24 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com SPORT Afghanistan Australia look to regain ‘not scared’ of Australia

PERTH: Afghanistan captain Mohammad Nabi has insisted his side are ‘not scared’ of form in Afghanistan tie Australia heading into today’s World Cup clash in Perth. “We are not scared of them, Team confident despite loss against New Zealand: Clarke but we respect them because they have good attacking bowlers and good quality batsmen and fielders PERTH: Australia’s World as well,” Nabi told reporters at the Cup loss to New Zealand was FACTBOX Australia WACA ground yesterday. disappointing but no wake- Afghanistan have provided one up call, according to captain vs Afghanistan of the most compelling stories of Michael Clarke, who said his Factbox on today’s World Cup this World Cup, with their thrill- team remains full of confidence Pool A match between Australia ing one-wicket win over Scotland despite the frustrating start to and Afghanistan at WACA, in Dunedin last time out one of their campaign. Perth. the highlights of the competition Saturday’s defeat in Wellington Australia’s AUSTRALIA so far. has left Australia fourth in Pool Mitchell But the pace and bounce of Captain: Michael Clarke A, after an opening win over Starc (right) the WACA pitch has troubled far Coach: Darren Lehmann England and a match washed out and Mitchell more experienced overseas bats- against Bangladesh. Johnson Squad: Clarke, Aaron Finch, David Warner, men than are in the Afghanistan Shane Watson, George Bailey, Pat Cummins, The co-hosts’ tournament has stretch during line-up and Australia have the also been affected by injuries, with Xavier Doherty, James Faulkner, Brad fast bowlers to make the most of a final training Haddin, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Johnson, Clarke’s recovery from hamstring session the conditions. surgery overshadowing the team’s Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Steve Smith, International Cricket Council yesterday Mitchell Starc. preparations and fast-bowling all- ahead of their Chief Executive David Richardson rounder James Faulkner sidelined Results so far at 2015 World Cup: Beat warned last week that the four 2015 World with a side strain. England by 111 runs; match abandoned non-Test or Associate countries Cup Pool A Paceman Pat Cummins will against Bangladesh; Lost to New Zealand by taking part in the tournament miss the team’s match against match against one wicket. had yet to face their toughest Afghanistan in Perth today with Afghanistan in Top performers: Aaron Finch (149 runs); assignments at the World Cup. another side strain, while media Perth. Mitchell Starc (eight wickets). They don’t come much harder reports of tension between Clarke Remaining Pool A matches: vs Sri Lanka than playing Australia in Perth and coach Darren Lehmann have (March 8); vs Scotland (March 14). but Nabi was heartened by the added additional distractions. AFGHANISTAN way his side had improved since Australia’s batsmen were skit- Captain: Mohammad Nabi their lone previous One Day tled for 151 runs in the much- Coach: Andy Moles International meeting. hyped clash against in-form New Three years ago, Australia Squad: Nabi, Nawroz Mangal, Asghar Zealand before paceman Mitchell beat Afghanistan by 66 runs in Stanikzai, Samiullah Shenwari, Afsar Zazai, Starc took six wickets to turn Sharjah, a match where Nabi Najibullah Zadran, Nasir Jamal, Mirwais what could have been a thrashing made 46 before being bowled by Ashraf, Gulbadin Naib, Hamid Hassan, into a nerve-jangling one-wicket playing really good cricket at the and have the freedom to enjoy the Council has drawn criticism for left-arm quick Mitchell Johnson. Shapoor Zadran, Dawlat Zadran, Aftab Alam, loss. moment. “I believe in confidence, brand of cricket you play. I think plans to cut the next World Cup “We played against Australia Javed Ahmadi, Usman Ghani. Asked whether the defeat to and I think we’ve been playing that’s what we’ll continue to do,” to 10 teams from the current 14, in Sharjah. They scored 272 and Results so far at 2015 World Cup: Lost to their highly-fancied neighbours some really good one-day cricket he said. which could hurt Afghanistan’s we scored 206,” said Afghanistan Bangladesh by 105 runs; Lost to Sri Lanka was a wake-up call, Clarke yester- over the past 12 months to two While unlikely to dent their chances of qualifying. captain. by four wickets; Beat Scotland by one wicket. day told reporters in Perth: “I’ll years,” Clarke added. prospects of making the knockout Clarke said Afghanistan had “It was a quite good experience say, no, I don’t think so. “I think the boys did a fantas- rounds, the defeat by New Zealand been “great” for the tournament. Top performers: Samiullah Shenwari (176 against them. Our team now is “I think we got beaten by a very tic job in the tri-series (against has added urgency to Australia’s “I think it’s wonderful for the runs); Shapoor Zadran (seven wickets) better from that time.” good team. Obviously, it’s always England and India), so I think our clash at the WACA against non- game of cricket,” he added. Remaining Pool A matches: vs New Amid much debate about tough to beat New Zealand in players are full of confidence, and Test playing nation Afghanistan, “I think they’ve shown the Zealand (March 8), vs England (March 13) the ICC’s plans to reduce the their own backward. I think that’s how you play your who celebrated an emotional first world on this stage that they’ve Australia vs Afghanista Head-to-head: number of teams taking part at “It’s always tough to compete best cricket. win in their maiden World Cup got a really good team and they Australia beat Afghanistan by 66 runs in their the 2019 World Cup in England against New Zealand no mat- “If you’re confident, you back against fellow minnows Scotland. can perform at this level against only meeting in a One Day International at to 10, Australia captain Michael ter where they play, and they’re your own ability, and you walk out The International Cricket the best.” REUTERS Sharjah on August 25, 2012. Clarke insisted teams such as Afghanistan were worth their place. And Nabi said his side were no longer star-struck when they We were ‘nervous’ against NZ: Johnson came up against the world’s best players. MELBOURNE: Nerves got “I think we trained really well, hopes of making the knockout “When you’re first playing with the better of Australia’s batting to be honest,” Johnson told Sydney rounds, though it may eventually the big teams and also with the lineup in their dramatic World radio station 2UE. “I just think we cost the team top spot in Pool A, big names, we got really excited,” Cup loss to New Zealand at the were probably a little bit nervous meaning a potentially trickier he said. “Now we’re used to with weekend and they may have through that middle period. quarter-final opponent. them.” been overawed by the occasion, “We trained and we knew what Non-Test playing side Afghanistan assistant coach Australian paceman Mitchell to expect. We knew the ball was Afghanistan can expect to feel Peter Anderson said today’s Johnson said. going to swing there. the full brunt of Johnson and match gave the tournament Australia’s New Zealand skittled “We knew what to expect, we Australia’s frustrations when the newcomers a chance to showcase Mitchell Australia’s batsmen for 151 runs just didn’t play our game when teams meet in Perth today on the their talent. in 32.2 overs before holding on we got out there in the middle. I WACA’s famously fast and bouncy Johnson runs “We’ve come off a win against for a nerve-jangling one-wicket think the moment probably got a wicket. in to bowl Scotland, so that’s given the boys a win at a packed Eden Park on bit big for us.” The WACA has been one during a final lot of confidence,” said Anderson. Saturday. Though Mitchell Starc took a of Johnson’s happiest hunting training session “We know we’re up against one Players and pundits have strug- brilliant 6-28 to give Australia grounds, a venue where his left- ahead of the of the best teams in the world gled to explain Australia’s bat- an unlikely sniff of victory, fellow arm deliveries collude with a 2015 World and certainly arguably the best ting flop, with some blaming the left-armer Johnson was torched dependable afternoon sea-breeze Cup Pool A pace attack,” added Anderson, team’s lack of match practice in by ‘Black Caps’ skipper Brendon to swing into batsmen. match against who played Australian first-class the two weeks since their opener McCullum early and finished Starc will team up with Afghanistan in cricket as a wicketkeeper for against England. wicketless for 68 runs from just Johnson again but third seamer Perth. Queensland and South Australia. Captain Michael Clarke six overs. Pat Cummins is likely to be rested Afghanistan’s task is made all suggested the team had not “He’s a great player,” two-time after sustaining a side strain the harder by the fact Australia trained hard enough on dealing ICC cricketer of the year Johnson against New Zealand. have still to secure a quarter-final with swing bowling after New said of McCullum. “He took me Fast-bowling all-rounder James place and come into this match on Zealand’s seamers cut a swathe apart, I haven’t been belted like Faulkner may return from a the back of a dramatic one-wicket through their innings. that for a long while.” side strain of his own against Pool A defeat by fellow tourna- But Johnson said there was no The loss to New Zealand is Afghanistan for his first match ment co-hosts New Zealand in lack of preparation. unlikely to affect Australia’s at the World Cup. REUTERS Auckland last weekend. AFP Familiar foes as Pakistan, UAE face off in World Cup

NAPIER: Pakistan play their to realise their dreams of inter- Now efforts to attract local home games in the United Arab national cricket. UAE veteran Emiratis are starting to pay Emirates and the Gulf side’s XI Khurram Khan is a case in point. dividends, with Dubai-born features a majority of expats A left-handed batsman of Mohammad Tauqir captaining born in Pakistan. immense talent, the 43-year-old the UAE at the World Cup. So it will be like two ‘home’ Khurram failed to make it beyond “We’re starting an academy,” teams playing each other when the regional team in Multan and Aaqib told Wisden India. Pakistan face the UAE in a World finally migrated to the UAE. “In our top 30, there are six Cup Pool B game in Napier today, Meanwhile Shaiman Anwar locals. There are three in the top not that there will be any cama- is from Sialkot, while wicket- 18 and two in the 15. raderie once the players take the keeper Saqlain Haider hails from Cricket links between Pakistan field. Rawalpindi and Nasir Aziz is a and the UAE were strengthened The UAE team have nine play- Karachiite. once Pakistan became a “no-go” ers in their 15-man squad either Fast-rising Rohan Mustafa is area for international teams in born in Pakistan or of Pakistani from Kohat in the North-West the wake of attacks on the Sri origin, with football generally Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region and Lankan team bus in Lahore in more popular among the host Amjad Ali is from Lahore, one of March 2009. Since then grounds community than cricket. Pakistan’s great cricket centres. in the Gulf state have staged the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Census figures from 2013 show But all of them are part-time bulk of Pakistan’s ‘home’ matches. the UAE’s total population at players who earn their livings Pakistan captain Misbah-ul- Chairman, Shaharyar Khan 9.2 million, of which 1.4 million away from the game, with several Haq acknowledged the UAE’s speaks to media representatives are Emirati citizens and 7.8 mil- working for Emirati airlines. support by saying: “UAE is very in Lahore yesterday. Pakistan’s lion are expatriates, mostly from The 35-year-old Anwar is the important for us, whatever we chief selector Moin Khan will not Pakistan and India. toast of the UAE team right now did in the last four years, UAE face further disciplinary action Several fringe Pakistani crick- after hitting 67 in their first Pool has played a big part by giving us after being sent home from the Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq speaks to the media prior to training eters who made a name for them- B game against Zimbabwe and grounds to clean-sweep England, World Cup for visiting a casino ahead of their 2015 Cricket World Cup Group B match against United selves at first-class level but could then notching the team’s first Australia and beat Sri Lanka,” on the eve of a crucial clash, the Arab Emirates in Napier, yesterday. not break into the national set- ever World Cup hundred in the said Misbah, who once played country’s cricket chief said. up have found in the UAE a place match against Ireland. league cricket in the Gulf. AFP WEDNESDAY 4 MARCH 2015 SPORT www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 25

South Africa’s batsman Faf Du Plessis celebrates his century during the ICC World Cup match against Ireland at the Manuka Oval in Canberra, yesterday. CENTRE: South Africa’s Dale Steyn (right) reacts after dismissing Ireland’s Paul Stirling. RIGHT: South Africa’s batsman Hashim Amla celebrates his 150 runs during the Ireland match. Power-packed SA flatten Ireland Proteas post second successive 400-plus total after Amla and Du Plessis hit centuries

CANBERRA: Hashim Amla and Kyle Abbott grabbed four for Scoreboard – including himself – ahead of on in the sixth over and nearly and Faf du Plessis hit centuries, 21 as Ireland were bundled out for tougher games. claimed a wicket with his first while Dale Steyn shone in his 210 in 45 overs. SOUTH AFRICA E Joyce c Amla b Steyn ...... 0 Amla smashed 16 boundaries ball. 100th One Day International, as The Irish were reduced to 21 Hashim Amla c Joyce b McBrine ...... 159 N O’Brien c Amla b Abbott ...... 14 and four sixes, while du Plessis Amla, then on 10, flicked South Africa showcased their for three by the fifth over and Q de Kock c Wilson b Mooney ...... 1 A Balbirnie c Rossouw b Morkel ...... 58 contributed 10 fours and a six in uppishly to short mid-wicket prowess with a 201-run rout slipped to 48 for five by the 11th F du Plessis b K O’Brien ...... 109 G Wilson lbw b Abbott ...... 0 a scintillating display of attacking where Ed Joyce, normally a safe of Ireland in the World Cup before Andy Balbirnie (58) and A B de Villiers c N O’Brien b McBrine ...... 24 K O’Brien c Rossouw b Abbott ...... 48 batting on a dry, run-laden pitch. catcher, dropped the ball after yesterday. Kevin O’Brien (48) led a late D Miller (not out) ...... 46 J Mooney b de Villiers ...... 8 Both batsmen were dismissed getting both hands to it. Amla scored 159 off 128 balls to revival by adding 81 for the sixth R Rossouw not out) ...... 61 G Dockrell b Morkel ...... 25 in the space of three overs, but Ireland paid dearly for the lapse become the fastest man to reach wicket. Extras (B-1, W-7, NB-3)...... 11 M Sorensen c De Kock b Morkel ...... 22 Rilee Rossouw hit an unbeaten as seamer Max Sorensen con- 20 ODI centuries and du Plessis South Africa’s third win in four Total (for 4 wkts in 50 overs) ...... 411 A McBrine (not out) ...... 2 61 off 30 balls and David Miller ceded 24 runs in one over, with made 109 as the Proteas piled up matches brought them level on six Fall of wickets: 1-12, 2-259, 3-299, 4-301. Extras (LB-3, W-9) ...... 12 chipped in with 46 not out as Amla smashing him for two sixes a massive 411 for four after taking points with defending champions Bowling: Mooney 7-2-52-1 (2nb, 1w); So- Total (all out in 45 overs) ...... 210 South Africa hammered 131 runs and a four and du Plessis lofting first strike at Canberra’s Manuka India, who have played one less rensen 6-0-76-0 (1nb, 6w); K O’Brien 7-0-95- Fall of wickets: 1-17, 2-21, 3-21, 4-42, 5-48, in the last 10 overs. him for six. Oval. match, in Pool B. 1; Dockrell 10-0-56-0; Stirling 10-0-68-0; 6-129, 7-150, 8-167, 9-200, 10-210. Prior to Amla and du Plessis’s In the second powerplay, Amla Steyn put aside worries of Ireland have four points from McBrine 10-0-63-2. Bowling: Steyn 8-0-39-2; Abbott 8-0-21-4 stand, Ireland were initially in the took 26 runs off one Mooney over mountain fires near his home in three games. IRELAND (1w); Morkel 9-0-34-3 (3w); Tahir 10-1-50-0; game when seamer John Mooney, with a sequence of two, four, four, Cape Town as he bowled a hos- Amla and du Plessis put on 247 W Porterfield c du Plessis b Abbott ...... 12 Behardien 2-0-13-0; Rossouw 2-0-13-0; Du whose first two overs were maid- six, four, six. An additional run tile opening spell to wreck Ireland off 217 balls for the second wicket P Stirling c de Kock b Steyn ...... 9 Plessis 4-0-30-0 (5w); De Villiers 2-0-7-1. ens, had Quinton de Kock caught came off a no-ball. with two wickets in his first three to lift South Africa to the sec- behind for one. Amla’s career-best century, overs. ond highest total in World Cup South Africa would have been in his 108th innings, was a new The fast bowler, who had history, just two runs behind 400-plus total for the Proteas in in which skipper AB de Villiers in further trouble when Kevin record, with India’s Virat Kohli grabbed just three wickets in India’s record 413 for five against the current tournament, follow- hammered 162 off 66 balls. O’Brien, who became Ireland’s being the next fastest to reach 20 South Africa’s first three pool Bermuda in 2007. ing their 408 for five against the With victory almost assured, most-capped player on Tuesday ODI hundreds in 133 innings. matches, finished with two for 39 It was the second successive West Indies in Sydney last week de Villiers used eight bowlers with 87 ODI appearances, came AFP

We do it our way, says De Villiers Ireland’s Kevin O’Brien CANBERRA: South Africa India’s record 413 for five against reacts South as South captain AB de Villiers yesterday Africa’s AB Bermuda in 2007. backed his team to go far in the It was the second successive Africa’s Rilee de Villiers World Cup following a 201-run 400-plus total for the Proteas in Rossouw hits (centre left) romp over hapless Ireland in the current tournament, following a boundary Canberra to record their third celebrates their 408 for five against the West during their win in Pool B. with team- Indies in Sydney last week. World Cup The Proteas are often regarded mates after “The guys stuck to their game match at as the best team never to have taking a plan pretty well,” said de Villiers. Manuka Oval won cricket’s showpiece event, wicket “There was a great partnership in Canberra, having fallen in the knock-out during their between Ash (Amla) and Faf (du yesterday. rounds after cruising through the 2015 World Plessis). league stage. Cup Pool “When you get a partnership But de Villiers was confident B match of 200-plus in an ODI, you always history could be re-written this against get yourself in a good position. We time, but preferred not to look too Ireland in found ourselves in a good position far ahead. Canberra, going into the last 15 overs, which Porterfield rues missed “Look I have believed for the yesterday. gave us a lot of freedom to express past year that we can win the ourselves. World Cup, but we are taking it “We ticked lot of boxes today. pretty much match by match,” de points with defending champions Amla and Faf du Plessis, who hit You can never be exceptionally chance to dismiss Amla Villiers. India, who have played one less centuries during a 247-run stand happy with a performance. But “I have told the boys to try match. for the second wicket. I am very happy the way we did CANBERRA: Ireland got an Dale Steyn and Kyle Abbott com- and not watch other games, just Ireland were left with four Amla scored 159 off 128 balls to the basics and played a fine game early and painful reminder of bined to reduce them to 42 for focus on what we have to do. The points from three games. become the fastest man to reach of cricket. what a fickle mistress cricket four in the ninth over. focus now is to play Pakistan in De Villiers said he was very 20 ODI centuries – in 108 innings “Our strength is in the matu- can be in their 201-run defeat Andrew Balbirnie and O’Brien Auckland on Sunday. happy with the performance – and du Plessis made 109 in a rity in the side. We do things our at the hands of South Africa in stopped the rot with a 81-run “When we reach the quarter- against Ireland, especially the scintillating display of attacking way. We are not trying to follow their third World Cup match partnership, however. finals we will think of the opposi- batting in which they piled up 411 batting on a dry, run-laden pitch. any unique strategy or someone yesterday. Stiff Irish resistance kept the tion and give it our best shot.” for four and then bowled out the South Africa’s total was the else’s strategy. We stick to our The Irish, who came into the contest alive until the 45th over South Africa’s third win in four rivals for 210. second highest total in World game plans and what works for contest at Manuka Oval with a and avoided the embarrassment matches brought them level on six The charge was led by Hashim Cup history, just two runs behind us.” AFP burgeoning reputation and two of the heaviest defeat in more victories under their belts, had than four decades of one-day already removed South African internationals. opener Quinton de Kock when “When you are four down com- Scotland hire Jurgensen for Bangladesh tie Kevin O’Brien came on to bowl ing out to 10, you are going to in the sixth over. struggle,” Porterfield added. NELSON: Scotland have taken former Bangladesh coach Shane De Kock’s partner Hashim “All credit to the lower order, Jurgensen on board for a one-match deal – tomorrow’s make-or- England Amla, who had scored 10 runs, there was some pretty aggressive break World Cup clash against the Asian side. batsman clipped the first delivery to Ed bowling out there but they stuck Australian Jurgensen quit as Bangladesh coach last year but was Root leaves Joyce at mid-wicket only for the at it. I was very pleased the way already in the New Zealand town of Nelson as head of the Fiji Under- the field former England batsman to put we kept going on the field, as well, 19 team when the Scots came calling. after being the catch down on the Manuka coming down the back end. Just Scotland, with three defeats in three games so far at the World dismissed by Oval turf. a lot of enthusiasm and a lot of Cup, need to beat Bangladesh at the Saxton Oval to have any hope of Scotland’s Some 44 overs later and Amla energy shown then. squeezing into the quarter-finals. Davey had 159 runs next his name on “It was quite easy to drift away, “The Scotland coach and manager are very good friends of mine and (second right) the scoreboard and Ireland were but no one really shied away they have asked for some consultancy ahead of their match against as he and chasing a nigh on impossible tar- from the task of either taking Bangladesh,” Jurgenson told the Daily Star of Bangladesh. team-mate get of 412 for victory. the ball or in the field, which was “They just want to know about what kind of team Bangladesh is and Berrington “Obviously it was a big chance pleasing.” the impact of some individual players. I am here to help the Scottish there and he obviously made us Irish pride may have taken celebrate boys but you can’t do much in two-three days and I believe there has pay,” said Ireland captain William bit of a dent but their hopes of during their been plenty of improvement with the Bangladesh players in the last Porterfield. a quarter-final spot are still very few months.” World Cup “He’s a fantastic player, we’re much alive, with Saturday’s match Cricket Scotland confirmed that Jurgensen was on board just for match in not going to get too many chances against Zimbabwe in Hobart a match. “Big Scottish welcome to @ shanejurgo who is helping us Christchurch, off him, especially in such a good looming as a crunch game. prepare for the game against @ BCBtigers # followscotland,” they in this wicket. But that’s cricket, we’ve “Every game throughout is a tweeted. Bangladesh are currently third in the Pool A table with three February 23 got to move on from that.” two-pointer for us, and Hobart is points from three matches following a win over Afghanistan, a no-result file photo. Ireland’s run chase also started no different,” said the Irish cap- washout with Australia and a defeat against Sri Lanka. AFP badly as South Africa’s pacemen tain. REUTERS WEDNESDAY 4 MARCH 2015 26 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com SPORT Loew distances himself from doping allegations

BERLIN: Germany’s World a clean sport across the board.” Goalkeeper Cup-winning coach Joachim Freiburg, who were in the second Loew (pictured) yesterday dis- division during the period stipu- Abdullah AlEnezi tanced himself from allegations lated, say they will also support (right) of Saudi of doping levelled at his former an investigation. Arabia’s Al Nassr clubs Freiburg and Stuttgart. The club spoke out against the fights for the ball On Monday, an evaluation com- use of performance-enhancing possession with mission from Freiburg’s sport drugs, but said they are also wait- Sebastian Soria of medicine clinic claimed ana- ing to see “detailed results or a Qatar’s Lekhwiya bolic steroids were used at the full report”. during their AFC Bundesliga clubs during the late Former Bayern Munich and Champions League 1970s and early 1980s. Switzerland coach Ottmar match at Abdullah “Doping has no place in sport, Hitzfeld, who played for Stuttgart Bin Khalifa I completely disapprove of it, from 1975-78, told broadcaster Stadium in Doha, that is as true for Sport1: “I am yesterday. me as a player as it totally surprised still is today as the by these reports. I national coach,” can’t imagine that said Loew. one of my team- Germany’s mates knowingly head coach played doped.” in midfield for And Hans- Freiburg from Jurgen 1978-80, then Sundermann, again from 1982- Stuttgart’s coach 84, while he spent from 1976-79 and the 1980/81 season 1980-82, said: at Stuttgart, whom “That’s absurd. I he later coached. can’t imagine that Having won the happening and can Weiss salvages draw 1984 Bundesliga title, Stuttgart, entirely rule it out.” who are currently bottom of the Rainer Koch, chairman of the table, say they will co-operate German Football Association’S with any investigation, but want (DFB) anti-doping commis- a full copy of the commission’s sion, said he was concerned that report to retrace the evidence. they had not been informed “For us, it is hard to give out beforehand. for Lekhwiya in Doha any information because we don’t “There have been serious alle- have any facts at hand and it gations made which obviously happened well before our time,” must be completely cleared up,” 10-man Al Nassr of Saudi Arabia secure away point Stuttgart’s director of sport he said. Robin Dutt told Sky Sports. “It is strange however that the “Nevertheless, we want to anti-doping commission has not DOHA: An own goal by reduced to 10 men following give a water-tight explanation, previously been informed. Muhamed Musa and a strike Khaled Al Ghambi’s dismissal because we are interested in clean “The commission’s findings are by Vladimir Weiss saw Qatari for a second bookable offence, Al sport. new to us and we have seen nei- champions Lekhwiya and Saudi Nassr secured an away point to “In professional football, there ther the results nor the report, Pro League winners Al Nassr make it two draws from two after Awadh is regular drugs testing and it therefore we can’t comment. share the spoils in a lively a 1-1 tie with Bunyodkor last time Al Faraj appears there are no irregular “In order to assess the matter encounter in Matchday Two of out. of Saudi findings. “Therefore I strongly seriously, we must see a detailed Group A at the Abdullah Bin Lekhwiya, who suffered a 3-0 Arabia’s believe that in football we have report.” AFP Khalifa Stadium yesterday. reversal away at Persepolis on Al Nassr The away side took the lead in Matchday One, got off to the bet- (right) the 46th minute when defender ter start and nearly took the lead fights for Musa diverted a Mohammed Al in the 10th minute when mid- the ball Sahlawi cross into his own net, fielder Nam Tae-hee struck the possession but Lekhwiya equalised five min- bar from a narrow angle. with utes later when Weiss neatly fin- Five minutes later the Saudi Vladimir ished following good work from side could have gone in front Weiss of Chelsea’s Youssef Msakni down the left. after forward Wila Armando cut Qatar’s English Weiss and Al Sahlawi both in from the left-hand side, only to Lekhwiya defender missed penalties in a frantic last fire his shot wide from eight yards during John Terry 30 minutes but despite being with only keeper Amine Lecomte their AFC to beat. arrives for The home side almost opened Champions a training AFC Champions the scoring five minutes before League at session at the interval after a scramble in Abdullah Chelsea’s League Results the Al Nassr box, but when the Bin Khalifa training Group A ball rebounded to Msakni, he saw Stadium ground Lekhwiya (QAT) 1 (Vladimir Weiss 51) Al Nassr his close-range effort rebound off in Doha, in Stoke (KSA) 1 (Mohamed Moosa 47-og); Bunyodkor the top of the bar and over. yesterday. D’Abernon, (UZB) 0 Persepolis (IRN) 1 (Mohamed Noori And it was the Saudis who south of 20, pen) went in front just a minute after London, Group B the restart when midfielder Al in this Sahlawi’s cross from the right side Naft Tehran (IRN) 1 (S. Kooroshi 50) Al Ain February 17 (UAE) 1 (A. Gyan 58-pen) was diverted into his own net by file photo. Musa. immediately pointed to the spot, when defender Khaled Muftah Group E But Lekhwiya struck back in but the Slovak’s weak penalty to brought down Al Sahlawi, but Shandong Luneng FC (CHN) 1 (Yang Xu 61) the 51st minute after Msakni goalkeeper Abdullah Al Enezi’s his spot kick was superbly saved Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors (KOR) 4 (Edu 21, skipped passed a defender on the right was easily saved. once more by Lecomte. And with Han 71, Lee Jae-Sung 75, Leonardo 90+3); left side before cutting the ball In an end-to-end game, it was just minutes remaining, Al Nassr Kashiwa Reysol (JPN) 5 (Kudo 43, Vrankovic back to Weiss, who controlled the the away side who could have were reduced to 10 men when Al 45 OG, Kim Chang-Soo 57, Otsu 67, Otani ball neatly before tucking home grabbed a second in the 72nd Ghamdi received his second yel- 75) Binh Duong (VIE) 1 (Oseni 81) from eight yards. minute, but substitute Ahmed Al low card for a foul on Weiss. Group F And the home side should have Fraidi’s header from inside the Despite the one-man advan- Seongnam FC (KOR) 2 (Bueno 8, Hwang 68) taken the lead on the hour mark six-yard box was brilliantly saved tage, though, Lekhwiya were una- Captain Terry to get new Gamba Osaka (JPN) 0; Guangzhou R&F (CHN) after Weiss burst into the box by Lekhwiya custodian Lecomte. ble to grab a winner in the closing 1 (Lu 27) Buriram United (THA) 2 (Ko Seul-Ki before being brought down by Al The Saudis were then awarded stages and the game ended level. 43, Macena 90+2) Ghambi. Referee Mohanad Qasim a penalty with 10 minutes to go THE PENINSULA Chelsea deal: Mourinho

COBHAM, United Kingdom: But Terry has emerged as the Barca out to sink Villarreal dreams Chelsea captain John Terry will dominant figure in the Chelsea be awarded a contract extension back-line since Mourinho MADRID: Barcelona have one did though admit that his team to keep him at the club beyond returned to the club in 2013, with eye on a potential treble when selection may be affected by the this season, manager Jose Gary Cahill and Kurt Zouma now they take a 3-1 lead into the sec- fact the on-form Luis Suarez and Mourinho revealed yesterday. battling it out for the right to line ond leg of their Copa del Rey Javier Mascherano are one book- Terry’s current 12-month deal up alongside him. semi-final against Villarreal ing away from missing the final. expires at the end of the cam- Mourinho admits his captain’s today. “It is something to bear in paign, but Mourinho says the role in the side means he will leave The Catalans have their La mind,” he added. 34-year-old centre-back’s form a large gap when he eventually Liga fate back in their own hands “A final is in play and it is inter- this season persuaded the club to leaves Stamford Bridge, but the thanks to Villarreal holding Real esting but it doesn’t condition offer him a new deal. Portuguese is not thinking about Madrid to a 1-1 draw on Saturday the game. To be able to play the “What I can guarantee is he who will succeed Terry just yet. and seem well set for the last final you have to get through the will be a Chelsea player next “Every one of these big guys eight of the Champions League semi-final.” season,” Mourinho told a press is difficult to replace, but at the after beating Manchester City 2-1 Villarreal have enjoyed a fan- conference at the club’s training same time you still have the player away in the first leg of their last tastic season so far as they too ground ahead of his side’s trip to and he is still an important player, 16 tie last week. are still involved on three fronts. West Ham United today. you have to start thinking: ‘What The next month will go a long The Yellow Submarine lie sixth “I can guarantee that. To guar- next?,” said Mourinho. way to deciding the fate of Luis in La Liga, progressed to the last antee that, it’s because I know “But this is a process that we Enrique’s men as City visit the 16 of the Europa League with a what my board tell me and what can take our time over because Camp Nou on March 18 before 5-2 aggregate victory over Red the player tells me. No doubts he John is proving again this season Madrid make the same journey Bull Salzburg last week and now is going to get his contract, no that he’s a player for years.” four days later. have a first Copa del Rey final in doubts.” Mourinho added: However, Enrique is deter- their history within reach. Terry, a graduate of the Chelsea “When I came back last year mined his star-studded squad do Yet, they have been beaten by academy, was named man of the he was coming from a difficult not take their eye off the ball at Barca in all three of their pre- Barcelona’s Argentinian forward Lionel Messi (right) celebrates a goal with match after scoring the opening period, but last season he was El Madrigal despite their healthy vious meetings this season and team-mate Uruguayan forward Luis Alberto Suarez during the Spanish goal in his side’s 2-0 victory over very good. This season even bet- advantage in the tie. Enrique expects a more offensive league against Granada CF in Granada in this February 28, 2015 file photo. Tottenham Hotspur in Sunday’s ter than last season. “I am concentrating on the threat from the hosts today. League Cup final at Wembley. Zouma appears to have moved game against Villarreal, it doesn’t Villarreal boss Marcelino was The former England captain ahead of Cahill in the pecking matter if it is the most difficult insistent after Saturday’s draw at A host of first-team regulars believes they can score the goals endured a troubled season two order, but the youngster was used month. We will do what we have the Bernabeu that his decision to including top-scorer Luciano needed to pull off a huge upset. years ago during Rafael Benitez’s in an unfamiliar midfield holding in every game and that is focus make seven changes from the side Vietto and on-loan Madrid winger “We are capable of causing brief spell in charge at the club, role against Spurs in the absence on the opponent in front of us.” that started in Salzburg had been Dennis Cheryshev will return Barcelona problems,” said the when a knee injury limited his of the suspended Nemanja Matic The former Barca captain vindicated. against Barca and Marcelino manager. AFP appearances. and injured John Mikel Obi. AFP WEDNESDAY 4 MARCH 2015 SPORT www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 27

Jasmin Lindner and Lukas Wacha in action during the Pas de Deux Freestyle test at CHI Al Shaqab in Doha yesterday. RIGHT: Action from the vaulting event. Vaulting is most often described as gymnastics and dance on horseback. PICTURES BY: ABDUL BASIT

CHI Al Shaqab Brusewitz rings in commanding Today’s Schedule 9:30am V-4 Class V-4 - Vaulting International Vaulting Competition - CVI3* Pas de Deux Competition performance at CHI Al Shaqab Free Test (2nd Round) 10:30am V-1 Class V-1 - Vaulting International Vaulting Competition - CVI3* Duo of Lindner and Wacha grabs top spot in Pas de Deux competition Individual Female Competition Free Test (2nd Round) BY RIZWAN REHMAT 10:30am S-1 Class S-1 - Jumping International Jumping Competition - CSI3* DOHA: Germany’s Thomas Brusewitz yesterday contin- Two phases, Table A/A - 1m30 ued to impress with his vault- FEI Art. 274.5.3 ing skills as the 20-year-old 11:50am V-2 Class V-2 - Vaulting retained his top spot on the points chart on day two of the International Vaulting Competition - CVI3* CHI Al Shaqab, the region’s pre- Individual Male Competition mier equestrian competition. Free Test (2nd Round) For the second day running, Brusewitz found perfect rhythm 1:00pm V-3 Class V-3 - Vaulting with his ‘veteran’ ride Airbus 1 International Vaulting Competition - CVI3* to hold on to the top spot in the Squad Competition 13-entry card after yesterday’s technical test of the vaulting Free Test (2nd Round) competition. 1:00pm S-2 Class S-2 - Jumping The 20-year-old yesterday International Jumping Competition - CSI3* managed a tally of 7.190 points with lunger Irina Lenkeit to wind Against the clock, Table A - 1m45 up day two with an overall tally of FEI Art. 238.2.1 7.636 points. 3:30pm S-3 Class S-3 - Jumping On Monday, Brusewitz scored 8.082 in the compulsory routine International Jumping Competition - CSI5* to go top of the points table. Two phases, Table A/A - 1m45 Brusewitz’s compatriot Erik FEI Art. 274.5.3 Oese - with ride Down Under - yesterday remained in contention 6:30pm S-4 Class S-4 - Jumping when he managed to score 7.126 International Jumping Competition - CSI5* points in the technical test for an Against the clock, Table A - 1m50 overall score of 7.451 points. Austria’s Stefan Csandl FEI Art. 238.2.1 dropped to fifth spot yesterday when he finished with 7.003 points from his routines exhibited in front of four judges at Al Shaqab’s Vaulting CVI3* Indoor Arena. Despite a sluggish outing, Results Csandl is third overall with a Individual male (technical) score of 7.432 points. Brusewitz’s brother Viktor 1.Thomas Brusewitz – Germany (horse Airbus improved a notch from Monday 1, lunger Irina Lenkeit) by securing fourth spot yester- Team Sui/Lutisburg of Switzerland compete in the squad competition. RIGHT: A competitor performs on horseback. BOTTOM: Austrian pair Jasmin T-7.190 + C-8.082 (total 7.636) Lindner (centre) and Lukas Wacha (right) pose for a picture. day with ride Rockhard H. The 2.Erik Oese – Germany (Down Under, Andreas German vaulter yesterday won a Bassler) T-7.126 + C-7.776 (7.451) score of 7.121 for an overall tally of 7.384. action,” Brucewitz said. “Last In the female competition, 3.Stefan Csandl – Austria (Nolan, Marjo Brusewitz said he was satisfied year I fall off in the freestyle still British vaulter Joanne Eccles yes- Sneekes) T-7.003 + C-7.860 (7.432) with his routines yesterday. I came third. This year it’s been terday found ride W H Bentley Individual female (technical) “Today was okay for me. I had better,” he remarked. in good form as she pushed over- 1.Joanne Eccles – Great Britain (WH Bentley, some mistakes but the techni- Brusewitz was full of praise for night leader Anna Cavallaro to John Eccles) T-8.019 + cal test was really good so I am his ride ‘Airbus 1’. second spot. happy,” Brusewitz said after fin- “Airbus is a great horse. For me Eccles yesterday managed a C-8.070 (8.045) ishing his routine on ‘Airbus 1’. he is a perfect horse. We’ve been tally of 8.019 points to grab the 2.Anna Cavallaro - Italy (Harley, Nelson Vidoni) “It’s quite difficult because we working together for a very long top spot with an overall score of T-7.624 + C-8.284 (7.954) have two new moves. And we time,” Brusewitz said. 8.045 points. 3.Simone Jaiser – Switzerland (For Ever du didn’t have that much training. So Csandl who was second on Veteran Italian vaulter Chalet CH, Margrit it was the first time in the compe- Monday dropped to three yester- Cavallaro produced a tally of tition that we used it,” he added. day in overall standings. 7.624 points in the technical test Blieske) T-7.280 + C-7.960 (7.620) “It’s cool that this event is “Overall I had one mistake, and to drop to second spot with an Pas de Deux (Freestyle 1) in Doha. It feels good to be on if I hadn’t committed that mis- overall score of 7.954 points. 1.Jasmin Lindner & Lukas Wacha – Austria the leaderboard. In the free- take then you would never know Swiss vaulter Simone Jaiser (Bram, Klaus Haidacher) 8.820 style, we will see what happens. where I’d be right now (on the scored 7.280 points yesterday I am excited for tomorrow,” the points table),” Csandl said. for an overall card of 7.620, a 2.Hannah Eccles & Joanne Eccles – Great German vaulter said when asked “Still I am quite happy where tally good enough to give her the managed 8.165 points after their Csandl said: “The routine was Britain (WH Bentley, John Eccles) 8.307 about today’s routines. I am,” the Austrian added. “Last third spot in the standings ahead ‘freestyle 1’ outing. very, very good. We trained once 3.Theresa Thiel & Stefan Csandl – Austria When asked about the improve- year, I was eighth here and this of today’s final day of action in Lindner, who was here last yesterday. Me and Teresa, we did (Bram, Klaus Haidacher) 8.165 ment in his brother Viktor’s year I am third. I overtook four vaulting. year, said: “This has been one of it really well. If we can do it well Team (Freestyle 1) scores, Brusewitz said: “Yes, nice people. If I do my stuff perfect In the Pas de Deux competi- our most difficult routines. But we together, then that’s the most to see my brother come up from tomorrow then I will be happy tion, world famous Austrian pair are proud of our performances.” important part for us.” 1.Team Sui/Lutisburg – Switzerland (Will Be fifth to fourth today. I am happy with myself and that’s the most Jasmin Lindner and Lukas Wacha Joaane said: “Yeah, it’s been are still at the top with overall Good, Monika about that.” important part for me. yesterday grabbed the top spot good so far. Technical was really score of 7.929 after two days of Winker-Bischofsberger Fr-8.152 + C-7.706 Brusewitz refrained from pre- “I wouldn’t mind being first with 8.820 points while Eccless good for me. You can never say competitions. (7.929) dicting a winning score in today’s (smiles). I think there are 12 sisters Hannah and Joanne had what’s going to happen but we Italy’s Team CIM Italy is in sec- 2.Team CIM Italy – Italy (Andokan, Laura final vaulting routines. very good vaulters out there in to settle for the second spot with look forward to the routines ond place with 7.018 points while Carnabuci) Fr-7.493 + C-6.542 (7.018) “It is hard to say what the win- the class. I don’t know where we a tally of 8.307. tomorrow. The pairing was really Sweden’s Team Svea Vaulting is ning score would be since I haven’t are but I hope we can do a good In third spot is Austrian duo good though it was messy. So far, in third place. 3.Tean Svea Vaulting – Sweden (Achim, Ronja seen the rest of the vaulters in job,” he added. Theresa Thiel and Csandl who we’ve had a good tour.” THE PENINSULA Persson) Fr-6.713 + C-6.509 (6.611) Wednesday 4 March 2015 13 Jumada I 1436 Volume 19 Number 6359 Sport Price: QR2

Power-packed Weiss salvages South Africa draw for flatten Ireland Lekhwiya

Sport | 25 Sport | 26

www.thepeninsulaqatar.com [email protected] | [email protected] Editorial: 44557741 | Advertising: 44557837 / 44557780 Van Gaal Barshim signs up as beIN confident Di Maria SPORTS brand ambassador will flourish MANCHESTER: Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal Qatari athlete says breaking outdoor world record is his top priority says British record signing Angel Di Maria should be given more time to justify his price tag ARMSTRONG VAS and be judged on his success at Factbox on Old Trafford. DOHA: Breaking the world Di Maria joined United for record in high jump in outdoor Barshim £59.7m from Real Madrid last competitions remains on top of Mutaz Essa Barshim is a Qatari track summer as part of United’s re- Qatar’s Mutaz Essa Barshim’s and field athlete who specialises in building plans under van Gaal. wish list this year. the high jump. But after an encouraging start The World Indoor Champion He was born on 24th of June, 1991. to his career in British football, and London Games bronze med- He is the national and Asian record the Argentina international, 27, allist yesterday said he aims to holder with a best mark of 2.43m. has struggled to find his best form “focus and be healthy” ahead of He was the Asian Indoor and World in a United side, which despite this year’s world championship Junior champion in 2010. He won occupying a top-four place in the and next year’s Rio Games while the high jump gold medals at the Premier League has also stut- aiming to break the record for the 2011 Asian Athletics Championships tered at times. highest jump of all time. and 2011 Military World Games, in Di Maria was substituted at The ace athlete said he is not addition to the bronze medal at the half-time during United’s uncon- burdened by the expectations. 2012 Olympic Games in London, with vincing 2-0 win over Sunderland “I like it, all the attention. I last Saturday and looked a frus- a height of 2.29m. do not think there is too much trated figure. Barshim witnessed his first focus on the world record. It’s not His home near Manchester was too much, it’s a normal. It is just international successes in 2010, the subject of an attempted bur- the way things are supposed to at the age of 19. He set an indoor glary in January which also unset- be and that is something nice. I Qatari record in Gothenburg in early tled the player and his family. feel people want me to do it. ‘Here February with a jump of 2.25m, and Van Gaal admits that all play- is a guy who can do it,’ they say, then went on to take the gold medal ers need time to find their feet so I take it as a motivation,” the at the 2010 Asian Indoor Athletics and says it’s too early to judge Di 23-year-old said, while speak- Championships, winning with a Maria’s impact. ing to journalists after becom- clearance of 2.20m. The United manager said: “I ing a brand ambassador of beIN He was selected to represent Qatar think it counts for all the play- SPORTS. at the 2010 IAAF World Indoor ers that we have bought, the first Barshim, who has cleared Championships in Doha. He is the first season is always difficult. I have 2.43m, is aiming to beat the exist- graduate of Aspire Academy to both explained that in the press con- ing world record height of 2.45m compete at the world championship- ference after the match (against set in 1993 by Javier Sotomayor level and hold the national record in Sunderland). of Cuba. The Executive Director of Human Resources and Financial Affairs at beIN SPORTS, Tareq Zainal, with Mutaz an Olympic sport. “You can see it for every player Barshim said he was not sure if we have bought, Shaw, Blind, Essa Barshim at the signing ceremony in Doha yesterday. The promising Qatari then won the he would break the world record Herrera, Falcao and also Di Arab Athletics Championship for but would certainly give it his best and plan what is best for me for The Executive Director of region to reach their potential,” Maria. shot. the season,” said Barshim, who Human Resources and Financial said Zainal. Juniors in Cairo in May 2010, clearing “For me it is not a big surprise, “The world record might hap- begins his Diamond League sea- Affairs at beIN SPORTS, Tareq “Mutaz Barshim is an ideal an outdoor best of 2.23m, and then it is more a big surprise when he pen, might never happen, but all son in Shanghai. Zainal, said Barshim will get example of a young athlete, who is went on to secure the continental adapted as quickly as possible. along my career I am going to Explaining the reason for tak- financial and media support from able to represent our brand values junior title at the 2010 Asian Junior “In Holland, Spain and push and try to improve myself ing part in the indoor competi- the media group under the new and mission. Through this role he Athletics Championships. His winning Germany I had the same experi- as the best I can. So, if I do it, tions while others were resting deal that will initially will be for will no doubt be a role model to mark at the competition (2.31m) was ence with players. We have to give it’s good and if I don’t, I at least during the same period, Barshim a period of one-year. other youth like him,” said the a national record and a world-leading him time, not just Di Maria but tried,” he said. said: “I am thinking about me, “Barshim is not only an ambas- beIN SPORTS official mark for junior athletes. It was also all the players. We wait and see.” Looking at the season ahead, the focus on myself, I am not con- sador for us, but also an iconic “We are certain that Barshim the best jump by a junior since the Van Gaal hopes that next sea- Barshim said: “The season is cerned at what others are doing. athlete for all Arabs. As an inter- will give belN SPORTS a true Chinese Huang Haiqiang cleared son will see all his recent signings really going to be long, espe- If I feel I am bored let’s do some national athlete he has achieved brand affinity. We will support 2.32m in 2006. He went on to win at fulfil their potential, although he cially with four extra competi- (indoor) competitions.” a lot worldwide and his perform- him in his career and we will cel- the 2010 World Junior Championships admits there is no set formula for tions — the Arab games, Asian Barshim said the beIN SPORTS ance motivates the athletes from ebrate his achievements with him. in Athletics in Moncton, winning with how long it takes a player to fully Championship, Diamond league brand ambassadorship was the the region. At belN SPORTS, we We believe that having Barshim a height of 2.30m. settle at a new club. and World Championship. So it is best thing to happen to his career. are driven by our responsibility to as a brand ambassador will not Barshim won the gold medal, He added: “It is dependable, you important to stay healthy as this “It’s a right partnership, we are make a positive difference in the only promote belN SPORTS but have to manage so many aspects. the 2014 IAAF World Indoor year we have the world champion- part of a family, the beIN SPORTS world, not only through broad- also contribute to identify Qatar Not just the game, but the culture. Championships in Poland with a new ship and next year the Olympics.” people believe in what I am doing casting sports but also reach- as a sporting hub,” he added. “The general answer is one “I Need to talk with my team and will be supporting me.” ing out to young athletes in the THE PENINSULA Asian indoor record of 2.38m. year but you can’t give a general answer. It is easy to say that, I cannot prove that. It is not sci- entifically proven.” United’s re-built squad has looked unconvincing at times but Qatar’s Amjad goes down fighting in under-19 final has been beaten only twice in the league since the beginning of DOHA: Israr Ahmad of Pakistan November. defeated Syed Azlan Amjad of Some home supporters appear Qatar in a marathon five-game to be losing patience at United’s clash to win the under-19 cat- methodical style but van Gaal egory of the Qatar Junior Open insists he was happy with the squash tournament. overall performance in beating Yesterday at the Khalifa Sunderland with a game to come International Tennis and Squash against further North East oppo- Complex, Amjad went down 11-5, sition — at Newcastle United — on 11-6, 9-11, 9-11, 11-2 in a tussle Wednesday night which lasted nearly one hour. He said: “I remember the fan- Earlier in the semi-final, tastic goal that Rooney scored Ahmad stunned top seed and after a fantastic counter. I have compatriot Muhammad Asim seen the match again and I think Khan 9-11, 11-9, 11-2, 11-9. In the we played a good match. other semi-final, Amjad defeated “We won very deservedly, could Sajad Zareian of Iran 11-6, 11-7, Israr Ahmad of Pakistan and Syed Azlan Amjad of Qatar in action during have won more but it is always 8-11, 9-11, 13-11. the under-19 final of the Qatar Junior Open squash tournament, at the like that.” Finals of four age group cat- Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex in Doha yesterday. Striker Robin van Persie is egories were also held yesterday. again missing for United’s trip In the under-11 category, sec- The title for the under-15 Around 92 players from nine to St James’ Park with an ankle ond seed Muhammad Huzaifa section turned out to be an all- countries took part in tournament injury with van Gaal saying it is Ibrahim of Pakistan defeated top Malaysian affair with top seed held in five age group categories. still too early to say how long the seed Mohammed Ouda of Qatar Wang Peng Soon losing to Siow Besides hosts Qatar, players Dutch international will be out. 11-6, 11-5, 11-9. Yee Xian 5-11, 11-9, 8-11, 13-11, from India, Pakistan, Iran, Nepal, United have no other injury Israr Ahmad of Pakistan receives the winner’s trophy after winning Malaysia’s Muhammad Azhar 11-6. In the Under-17 section, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Armenia worries and midfielder Michael the under-19 final of the Qatar Junior Open squash tournament, at the won the under-13 title with a Cheuk Nam Matthew Lai of and Egypt, took part in the event. Carrick could play a part against Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex in Doha yesterday. 11-8, 11-6, 9-11, 11-2 victory over Hongkong defeated Kashif Asif The Doha Junior Open now his hometown club after being PICTURES: SALIM MATRAMKOT Mohammad Danial Gharooni of of Pakistan 11-7, 7-11, 11-6, 11-9 to begins and will be played today and an unused substitute against Iran. win the title. tomorrow. THE PENINSULA Sunderland. AFP