MUHARRAM 28, 1439 AH WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2017 Max 36º 32 Pages 150 Fils Established 1961 Min 22º

ISSUE NO: 17358 The First Daily in the Arabian Gulf www.kuwaittimes.net

Folktales vital to develop Iraq forces take oilfields, Grim store sales cast shadow FIFA hopes TV rights scandal 3 children’s morals, values 7 dashing Kurdish dreams 32 ahead of ‘festival of lights’ 15 ‘will not disrupt’ World Cup

Hashem glad dental service fees to be hiked for expats MPs demand bedoon agency be placed under interior ministry

By B Izzak because they failed to oppose the govern- ment. She said that many lawmakers acted KUWAIT: MP Safa Al-Hashem, who has like strong opponents to the government dur- federation has informed organizers been calling to tax expatriates for walking on ing the election campaign, but later turned UAE: Gulf Cup that “the Gulf Cup cannot be played the road, said yesterday that charges on pub- against expatriates because they failed to without Kuwait”, adding that the lic dental services offered to expatriates will oppose the government. boycott is over request was “nothing political”. be raised like other medical services. The An opposition MP on Monday proposed Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Bahrain lawmaker, who had also called for imposing a imposing an annual charge of KD 1,200 on cut ties with Qatar in June, including five percent tax on remittances by foreigners, every expatriate holding a driving license. MP Kuwait ban banning their citizens from visiting the said that the health minister has revised the Khaled Al-Otaibi said the proposal will be the fellow Gulf Arab state, over accusa- existing prices of dental services in a prelude best solution for traffic jams on Kuwaiti roads. DUBAI: A Qatar-hosted soccer tour- tions that Qatar supports terrorism. to raising them for expats. The proposal must be approved by the nament for Arab nations should not go Doha denies the charges. FIFA banned The lawmaker denied on her Twitter National Assembly to become effective. ahead unless Kuwait’s FIFA ban is lift- Kuwait’s national soccer federation in account that dental services have been In another issue, lawmakers are moving ed, the UAE Football Association’s 2015 over alleged government inter- spared from the hikes that include many med- quickly to propose solutions to the plight of president said yesterday, denying that ference and said recently that the sus- ical services implemented at the start of over 110,000 stateless people or bedoons liv- his country’s boycott was related to pension would be lifted “only when the October. She also blasted those who criticize ing in the country. Five MPs submitted a draft the crisis between Gulf states. Qatar is Kuwait Football Association (KFA) the health minister for raising charges on law yesterday calling to move the central expatriates, saying this is intended to protect agency for bedoons under the interior min- hosting in December the Gulf Nations and its members (the clubs) are able to medicine merchants, whom she described as istry, saying this would accelerate resolving Cup, a tournament that usually carry out their activities and obliga- “sharks” who are not concerned for the “lives Safa Al-Hashem their problem. The agency has been accused involves Bahrain, Kuwait, Iraq, Oman, tions independently”. Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab and health” of Kuwaitis. Hashem, the only of deliberately obstructing any solution to the Asked if the UAE would compete in female in the 50-member house, has been move quickly and cancel the undersecretary’s bedoon crisis. Emirates (UAE) and Yemen. Qatar if Kuwait’s FIFA ban was lifted, At the competition’s draw in Qatar targeting expatriates with proposals and calls decision and apply the increase on expats “in A meeting of the agency yesterday chaired Bin Ghalaita said: “If Kuwait played, this the interests of the country and citizens”, last month, which was boycotted by that some of her colleagues and many Kuwaiti by the interior minister discussed ways to would solve a lot of things”. The Arab writers describe as “racist”. wondering what was the interest of the offi- speed up naturalizing bedoons who qualify Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Bahrain, Gulf Cup Football Federation (AGCFF) Incidentally, a group of dentists had cial to not include expats in the fee increase for citizenship. Head of the interior and organizers said the UAE and Bahrain has said the tournament would go expressed displeasure towards a decision by decision. They said the dental sector suffers defense committee MP Askar Al-Enezi said had requested the tournament be ahead, though at least five teams are the assistant undersecretary for dental medi- from unilateral decisions without any study, yesterday that 10 lawmakers will submit a postponed. Neither country’s repre- needed under the competition’s current cine affairs for not including expats who visit condemning the official’s response after an proposal calling to vote on a law that deter- sentatives replied to Reuters’ format. The tournament, which rotates dental clinics in the fee increase. They escalation in the media and the “bogus” mines the number of people who can be natu- requests for explanation of their hosts, could be an early test for Qatar claimed the official is aware that the equip- achievements he continues to claim. ralized this year. This is one of the avenues to absence at the time. UAE FA which has spent billions of dollars ment and material used to treat dental cases Meanwhile, well-known Kuwaiti writer Fajr resolve the bedoon problem, he said. Enezi President Marwan bin Ghalaita told preparing to be the first Arab country to are very expensive and cost the country mil- Al-Saeed yesterday criticized lawmakers who said the committee yesterday also approved Reuters in Dubai yesterday that his host the World Cup in 2022. — Reuters lions annually. are targeting expatriates with abnormal pro- an amendment to the army law to allow the The dentists asked the government to posals and charged they are doing this admission of bedoons in the armed forces.

Islamic State loses News in brief emblematic Syria MoI arrests fraudsters KUWAIT: Members of an international money laun- stronghold Raqqa dering and fraud network were arrested by a special- ized unit from the interior ministry, a statement said RAQQA, Syria: US-backed forces took full control of yesterday. The ministry’s public relations department Raqqa from the Islamic State group yesterday, defeat- said the suspects, who hold South African and Nigerian ing the last militant holdouts in the de facto Syrian cap- passports, lured victims through social media and con- ital of their now-shattered “caliphate”. The victory caps vinced them to transfer money using different pretexts. a battle of more than four months for Raqqa, and ham- The public relations department thanked all those who mers another nail in the coffin of the militant group’s provided valuable information that led to the arrest of experiment in statehood, which has collapsed in the the criminals, stressing that citizens should be vigilant face of offensives in Syria and Iraq. and aware that similar networks are still at large and Inside Raqqa, overjoyed fighters from the Kurdish- continue their illicit acts. Arab Syrian Democratic Forces celebrated and raised their yellow flag in the city’s Al-Naim traffic circle, which became known as “Hell Roundabout” after mili- tants used it for gruesome public executions. Raqqa DNA law scrapping hailed had become a byword for atrocities carried out by the militants and it was from the city that IS organized dev- RAQQA, Syria: Rojda Felat, a Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) commander, waves her group’s flag at KUWAIT: Human Rights Watch yesterday commended astating attacks it has claimed abroad like the Paris the iconic Al-Naim Square yesterday. — AFP a decision by Kuwait to drop a controversial counterter- massacres in 2015 or August’s attacks in Barcelona. rorism law mandating DNA testing for all citizens, resi- “Hell Roundabout is now Al-Naim Roundabout tia’s name, her rifle hanging from her shoulder. “God liberation. Raqqa has been devastated by fighting and dents and visitors, which had been passed following a again,” the fighters in Raqqa cheered, surrounded by willing, joy will return to the whole city,” said fighter emptied of civilians, with the last few thousand depart- 2015 suicide attack. “The court’s decision to overturn crushed buildings and charred cars damaged in the Sevger Himo, his eyes gleaming. ing under a deal implemented over the weekend. For the DNA law is a very positive step that ends this mis- ferocious battle for the city. Rojda Felat, the SDF’s com- The defeat of IS in Raqqa was a victory “the whole Umm Abdullah, a Raqqa native who fled the city three guided and hastily passed invasion of privacy in mander for its Raqqa operation, flashed a wide grin as world was waiting for”, said Omar Alloush, a member of years ago, news of its capture was overwhelming. Kuwait,” said Sarah Leah Whitson, Middle East director she waved a huge yellow flag emblazoned with the mili- the Raqqa Civil Council formed to run the city after its Continued on Page 11 at HRW. The law was passed in 2015 after a suicide bombing at a Shiite mosque which killed 26 people and wounded 227 others. Najd Province, the Saudi Arabian affiliate of the Islamic State group, claimed the June Duterte declares 2015 suicide attack. Kuwait’s constitutional court, which oversees the compliance of law with the constitution, ruled on Oct 5 the DNA law unconstitutional on the Marawi liberated grounds that it contravened articles on personal liberty. MARAWI, Philippines: Philippine cause for celebration and later apolo- President Rodrigo Duterte yesterday gized to the people of Marawi for the declared a southern city “liberated from destruction. “We had to do it,” he said. Spaceship burns up over Dubai terrorists’ influence” but the military said “There was no alternative.” the five-month battle against militants Duterte stood on a gymnasium stage DUBAI: Parts of an unmanned Russian cargo spaceship loyal to the Islamic State group was not with a ruined roof near a tarpaulin bear- burned across the night sky of the Arabian Peninsula, yet over. Duterte led rain-soaked sol- ing large photos of the dead militants. drawing gasps from Dubai to Riyadh before breaking up diers in celebrations in Marawi, a day After he left, soldiers took selfies in front in the Earth’s atmosphere and scattering in the Indian after the military announced the death of of a bombed-out building while others Ocean. The fiery end Monday night to parts of Progress the head of the Islamic State group in hoisted a Philippine flag atop a tank. MS-07 came as planned after it delivered 2.5 metric tons Southeast Asia, Isnilon Hapilon, in a gun Military chief of staff General Eduardo of water, food and scientific equipment to the astronauts battle in the city. Ano later clarified that the fighting aboard the International Space Station. Parts of the ship “Ladies and gentlemen, I hereby against 20 to 30 remaining militants could be seen re-entering the atmosphere from 7:35 pm declare Marawi liberated from the ter- continued, describing them as “strag- Monday, said Hasan Ahmad Al-Hariri, CEO of the Dubai rorists’ influence that marks the begin- glers” and the clashes as “mopping Astronomy Group. It streaked across the Dubai skyline ning of the rehabilitation,” Duterte said, operations”. “The small number of the speaking moments after explosions and remaining enemy can now be considered behind the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, draw- gunfire were heard in the city. “I promise a law enforcement matter and does not ing both stunned and anxious reactions from those MARAWI: Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte (on stage in brown) raises a you this will never happen again,” he constitute (a) serious threat to hinder watching. The governmental Dubai Media Office, citing clenched fist as he shouts declaring Marawi “liberated” during a ceremony said as he gave troops a snappy salute. (rehabilitation),” Ano said in a statement. the sheikhdom’s Mohammed bin Rashid Space Center, inside the battle area of Bangolo district yesterday. —AFP Duterte said the liberation was not a Continued on Page 11 had quickly described the aerial display a “meteorite”. 2 Established 1961 Local Wednesday, October 18, 2017 Amir meets Italian defense minister

Crown Prince receives envoys

KUWAIT: His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah meets with the visiting Italian Minister of Defense Roberta Pinotti. — KUNA meets with the Ambassador of Iraq to Kuwait Alaa Al-Hashemi.

KUWAIT: His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al- attended the meeting. His Highness the Prime Transportation Ahmad Al-Hassan. His Highness the Kingdom of Thailand Dooset Manabal and Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah received at Bayan Palace Minister Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak Al-Hamad Al- Amir also received His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al- Ambassador of the Kingdom of Butan Tsereng Gelchen yesterday Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Sabah received the visiting Italian Minister later yes- Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah. Banjor on assuming their offices. The meetings were Minister Sheikh Mohammad Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al- terday as well. Separately, His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh held in presence of the Crown Prince Diwan Sabah. His Highness the Amir also received the visit- Meanwhile, His Highness the Amir received Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah received the Undersecretary for Protocol Sheikh Mubarak Sabah ing Italian Minister of Defense Roberta Pinotti and Minister of Public Works Abdulrahman Al-Mutawa Ambassador of Iraq to Kuwait Alaa Al-Hashemi on the Al-Salem Al-Humoud Al-Sabah. Also yesterday, His her accompanying delegation. Deputy Minister of the accompanied by the newly appointed Director occasion of assuming his new office. His Highness the Highness the Crown received Mutawa, Hassan and His Amiri Diwan Affairs Sheikh Ali Jarrah Al-Sabah also General of Public Authority for Roads and Crown Prince also received Ambassador of the Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad. — KUNA

for himself how the Kuwaiti Foreign Ministry is saying that bilateral Envoy lauds working hard in preparation for the confer- relations were as “dis- ence, slated for November 12, so that it can tinct as ever.” On the Kuwait’s initiative come out with positive results for the benefit of local scene, Tahboub Arab lawmakers laud the Palestinian children. commended the The event will shed light on the sufferings of recent reconciliation to host conference the Palestinian children at the hands of the deal concluded Ghanem’s speech on Israeli occupation authorities over decades; between the on Palestinian they were detained, and their innocence was Palestinian Fatah and Palestine stolen, besides being deprived of the simplest Hamas movements, basic rights enjoyed by peers worldwide. and highlighted His SAIN PETERSBURG: Arab law- children Deputy Foreign Minister Khalid Al-Jarallah Highness the Amir’s makers taking part in the 137th announced at the opening of the 148th Session repeated call for unity Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) of Arab League Council in Cairo last December among the Palestinian lauded yesterday the speech KUWAIT: Palestinian Ambassador to Kuwait that Kuwait would host the international con- Palestinians.The deal Ambassador to Kuwait delivered by Kuwaiti National Rami Tahboub has praised Kuwait’s initiative to ference in November 2017 amid Israel’s viola- will no doubt bolster Rami Tahboub Assembly Speaker Marzouq Al- host the first conference on the sufferings of tions against the Palestinians children. the Palestinian side in Ghanem on the Palestinian the Palestinian children. It is normal for Kuwait, the political negotiations with the Israelis, he cause, saying that it reflected a ‘Humanitarian Center,’ whose leader His Only country stressed. As for the Interpol’s vote last Kuwait’s strong commitment Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al- Meanwhile, Tahboub said that Kuwait is the September guaranteeing Palestine full member- towards the issue. Jaber Al-Sabah was named ‘Humanitarian only country that fully honored its commitment ship in the organization, Tahboub said the reso- Head of the Palestinian parlia- Leader’ by the global community, to host the for the construction in Gaza, paying $200 mil- lution was a “recognition from the international mentary delegation to the meet- event, Tahboub said in an interview yesterday. lion it pledged in a Cairo conference in October community that Palestine is an “independent ing Azzam Al-Ahmad said that This is part of Kuwait’s support to the 2014. The envoy pointed to Kuwait’s support to and sovereign state” that has the right to be Ghanem’s speech to the IPU Palestinian cause, he said, noting that he saw highlighted this paramount issue Head of the Palestinian the Palestinian cause and rights over the years, part of the UN agencies. — KUNA parliamentary delegation for the Arab world, affirming that Azzam Al-Ahmad strong opposition by the interna- tional community should meet the Israeli injustice towards Demands presented by the backing such serious nesses, and provide them with keys for success Palestinians. Kuwaiti delegation found positive K-Net transactions initiatives, added the through investment opportunities, he noted. On the parliamentary level, the reactions by other delegations, senior official. Investment opportunities include knowl- Israeli Knesset is approving leg- he said. value surpassed The Kuwait gov- edge development in technology, digital cre- islations and laws that violate MP Safaa Al-Hashem stressed ernment has so far ativity, and entrepreneurship, providing international laws and norms, that the delegation’s demand on achieved significant youngsters with an important platform for said the Palestinian lawmaker, freezing membership of those $1bn in 2016, steps in encouraging achievement and excellence for tomorrow’s stressing that Palestine, in coop- violating basic humanitarian youngsters and sup- digital world, he added. Roudhan also said the eration with Arab and interna- principles was clear. She said the says minister porting their private government has paid closer attention to the tional partners, will seek all legal Kuwaiti delegation managed to business initiatives, effectiveness of e-transactions, prompting it to and legislative measures to influence on the participating including information launch the country’s official e-government counter Israel’s unjust polices. parliamentary delegations at the KUWAIT: Minister of Commerce and Industry technology (IT), he system, which provides key information and Similarly, head of the Tunisian conference regarding some Khaled Al-Roudhan said yesterday that the noted. It has provid- services for citizens, residents, state and pri- parliament’s delegation Dr Lutfi issues, and promoted Kuwait’s transactions value of the retail payment system Minister of Commerce ed the youngsters vate bodies. The e-government system also Al-Nabli commended the status on the international level. (K-Net) in Kuwait has surpassed $1 billion in and Industry with an environment include social media links, allowing the users Kuwaiti speaker for his sincere She referred that Kuwait’s 2016. Digital business in Kuwait has seen lately Khaled Al-Roudhan for their IT initia- to interact and participate in submitting their stance on the Palestinian issue. parliamentary delegations have a major prosperity, Roudhan, also Acting tives, beginning with opinions, evaluations, ideas, and suggestions, Arabs need to bond together and been growing impacts to activate Minister of State for Youth Affairs, said in his enhancing school and academic curriculums, said the minister. have a unified position on the the country’s parliamentary opening speech at the second edition of said Roudhan. The government also helped in The Kuwaiti government, in cooperation Palestinian cause, said Nabli who diplomacy. She expressed her ArabNet Kuwait conference and exhibition. creating incubations for companies, securing with the Parliament, has launched the e-gov- indicated that Ghanem’s speech sorrow that most crises are Social media penetration in Kuwait is at 96 funds and legislations, providing an infrastruc- ernment system through issuing a law to regu- was within such efforts to end occurring in the Middle East percent, one of the highest globally, and lead- ture for economic and social development, and late electronic transactions, including e-trade, the Israeli aggressions against region, indicating that Kuwait is ing the MENA region on platforms such as creating newer job opportunities for young- e-signature, and e-payment, in addition to pri- Palestinians. Kuwaiti chief law- leading international efforts to Snapchat and Instagram, he said. Websites in sters, he added. vacy and date protection, he noted. maker addressed the IPU’s 137th achieve peace and humanitarian Kuwait also attract a high percentage of view- Meanwhile, Al-Roudhan said that ArabNet Session in Saint Petersburg, rights of peoples. ers; around 320 million viewers monthly with Youth projects Kuwait 2017 conference poses a serious Russia, early Monday, where he an average of six minutes of time spent on a Most of the new legislations in Kuwait were opportunity for Kuwaiti youngsters to take called on the IPU to practice eth- Effective speaker page, added Roudhan. Such an excellent ratio issued in favor of youth action and projects advantage of international and regional expe- ical power and counter Israel’s President of Arab Parliament indicates that Kuwaiti web users prefer read- such as backing micro-enterprises, cutting- riences and expertise on most recent updates violations. Meshaal Al-Selmi affirmed that ing web headlines in more details than fast down on commercial licenses procedures and and developments in digital business world. Ghanem is an effective speaker in browsing, he said. issuing them electronically in a record time, The event is part of massive efforts by Kuwaiti Key contents the Arab world, lauding his call Kuwait gives special attention and keenness added the minister. The National Fund for state institutions and private sectors to attain Kuwaiti MP Waleed Al- for practicing pressures on the to all initiatives aimed to enhance youth Small and Medium Enterprise Development His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Tabtabae, treasurer of the parlia- Israel Knesset to stop its criminal potentials and foster their abilities and skills in mentary caucus, said Ghanem’s acts, which run counter to the was established as an independent public cor- Al-Jaber Al-Sabah’s vision in transforming the various fields, Roudhan said. Kuwait also poration, with a total capital of KD 2 billion, to country into a major regional and international speech was strong, expressive international humanitarian law. spares no effort in sponsoring, supporting, and and effective. Ghanem’s speech Selmi commended successful encourage youth potentials, support their busi- commercial hub. — KUNA did not only represent the State participation of the Arab delega- of Kuwait but also all Arabs and tions at the IPU conference, Muslims, referring that it was emphasizing that inserting the praised by all delegations, he Rohingya’s suffering as an emer- the authorities in Myanmar, said a top Kuwaiti The meeting touched on the upcoming said. Meanwhile, MP Youssef gency item at the event reflects Kuwait still stands diplomat yesterday. Geneva conference on October 23 on the Fadhalah, a member of the parlia- keenness by the Arab world on Kuwait’s permanent delegate to the UN humanitarian response for the Rohingya in mentary caucus, said the speech supporting human rights. Arab in solidarity with headquarters in New York Ambassador Bangladesh, said Ambassador Otaibi. He added by Ghanem contained some key Inter-Parliamentary Union Mansour Al-Otaibi told a meeting geared that participants in the upcoming event must contents, mainly the call for stop- Secretary General Fayez Al towards supporting the Rohingya that the intensify their efforts to realize the goal of ping humanitarian catastrophe Shawabkeh also extolled Rohingya: Otaibi event touched on the Kuwaiti humanitarian gathering $2.3 million for this noble cause. the Rohingya Muslims are facing Ghanem’s efforts in organizing assistance to the prosecuted minority. He indi- Ambassador Otaibi indicated that yesterday’s and violations of the Israel’s requests pertaining to the issue cated that the UN meeting thanked the meeting also touched on statistics regarding Knesset against Palestinians as of Rohingya, saying Ghanem has NEW YORK: Kuwait stands in solidarity with Kuwaiti efforts in aiding the Rohingya, affirm- this humanitarian catastrophe, revealing that well as the activation of IPU’s several ideas, which serve the the Rohingya and the government of ing that his country was eager to live up to its since August 25, some 539,000 Rohingya have role to curb such violations. Arab issues. — KUNA Bangladesh which is hosting people trying to UN honorary status as an international human- crossed the borders to seek refuge in escape from the horrendous acts carried out by itarian hub. Bangladesh. — KUNA Established 1961 3 Local Wednesday, October 18, 2017 Over 240 illegals arrested in crackdowns around Kuwait Disabled woman kidnapped, raped in Ahmadi

By Hanan Al-Saadoun and agencies original sponsor’s knowledge. A case was filed. Theft An unidentified person stole KD 6,000 from KUWAIT: Detectives conducted an inspection Drugs a broker’s car. The broker parked his car in campaign yesterday in Jahra industrial area General security men found 17 bags of heroin Amghara for a few minutes to buy wood, and where 70 expatriates in violations of residency and shabu (meth) that a Bangladeshi man hid in when he returned, he discovered the money was laws, including absconders and people wanted a sandy area in Farwaniya. Policemen suspected stolen. He went to Sulaibiya police station and for various crimes, were arrested. Meanwhile, the man who was burying the bags near an lodged a complaint. security forces conducted a wide scale inspec- abandoned car. The man ran away, but was tion campaign in various areas around Kuwait chased and caught. Meanwhile, police arrested a Intrusion that resulted in arresting 174 illegal residents, citizen late at night in Hawally and found he is Facilities security arrested two people for seven people with possession of drugs as well wanted in an undisclosed case by the Drugs attempting to enter an off-limit area. One sus- as an unspecified number of fugitives and peo- Control General Department (DCGD). The man pect, an Afghan national, was carrying a per- ple caught under the influence of drugs and was taken to DCGD under heavy guard. mit in the name of another compatriot, and alcohol. In addition, 18 vehicles were impounded Separately, a female citizen called police for entered along with the second suspect, during the crackdown. help, and when police responded, they found Egyptian. The Ahmadi prosecutor ordered the that her son had detained and threatened her. arrest of the two men. The incident took place Rape Police were able to bring the man under control at Ahmadi Port. A man abducted a disabled woman from her and found him under the influence of drugs. He workplace and raped her. He then dumped her was also wanted on several civil cases. Municipality campaigns and escaped. The victim went to a police station Kuwait Municipality’s public relations in Ahmadi governorate and told them a man Reckless driving department said the capital branch carried out forced her to leave her workplace, bundled her A citizen was charged with resisting arrest, several campaigns at co-op societies, shops and in his car and took her to an apartment where he recklessness, driving the wrong way, running a stores dealing with food items. The campaign KUWAIT: Kuwait Municipality workers remove debris raped her. Detectives were able to identify the red light, driving on the pavement and not pay- resulted in taking two underwritings from store during a recent campaign in Farwaniya. suspect and his phone number. The man did not ing attention while driving, before being sent to owners to comply with health conditions. answer the phone when he was called, and the Drugs Control General Department for drug Meanwhile, 35 citations were issued for employ- detectives are looking for him to be arrested possession and abuse. A police patrol noticed a ing workers without health certificates, dealing and questioned. car in a sandy area, and the driver escaped as with food items without health certificates, fail- soon as he saw police, but he was chased and ure to adhere to general hygiene and working Forgery caught. He was found under the influence, and with expired certificates. In the meantime, An Asian woman and an Arab man working had four tablets on him. In Hawally, a bedoon Farwaniya branch carried out campaigns that as company representative were arrested over was arrested for attempting to attack police resulted in removing 17 abandoned cars from charges of forging an official document, said after being caught in Salwa with 280 illicit Khaitan and Farwaniya. The campaign also security sources. The woman had paid the rep- tablets. The bedoon attempted to hide a bag, included washing garbage containers in all resentative an amount of money to transfer her then refused to open it and was resisting when Farwaniya governorate’s areas, while removing residency visa to another sponsor without the some tablets fell out from it. 1,824 cubic meters of leftovers.

App shows progress at South Al-Mutlaa City project

By A Saleh

KUWAIT: Recent images on the Kuwait Finder smartphone app showed much progress in con- struction works at the South Al-Mutlaa City project and that constructions were ahead of the schedule set by the housing welfare author- KUWAIT: A computer generated image for the planned ity. The maps showed that the contractor work- South Al-Mutlaa City. — Public Authority for Housing ing on the first contract has finished outlining Welfare’s website main roads, said informed sources, noting that much of the construction of the 32 million sq m area and 143 km of roads, 61 intersections, 32 roundabouts, 13 bridges, 12 km of sewage lines and 3,500 manholes has been finished. Meanwhile, the technical team following up the second project of building the infrastructure needed for 18,519 land plots said that 4.2 per- cent of the work has already been completed, bearing in mind that the contractor started work in August. The South Al-Mutlaa City is the largest housing project in Kuwait with 28,363 units, currently being executed in cooperation with international experts. By the end of last June, the Public Authority for Housing Welfare (PAHW) has signed a contract of about KD 288 million with the Italian Salini Costruttori engi- neering company and Turkey’s Kolin group to build the city’s infrastructure. The project will also see the floating of 60 tenders for construc- tion including public utilities and power plants.

Government jobs An artist’s rendition for neighborhoods in the new city. The head of the grievances and complaints committee at the National Assembly MP Hamdan Al-Azmi said the committee will pro- added that the committee had received various ified people were appointed. He added that the pose a bill on regulating the acceptance of citi- complaints from young citizens who had justice ministry changed the conditions several zens applying for government jobs and adjust- applied for the jobs of legal investigators and times, including the minimum grades required ing some judicial regulation law articles. Azmi prosecutors, but were rejected while less-qual- and the age limit.

Folk tales vital for children’s morals, values: researcher

ABU DHABI: Kuwaiti researcher Bazza Al-Batni stressed on the impor- tance of folk tales in developing morals and social values in children. These stories, being one of the favorite methods of learning for children, promote positive behavior and provide information about society and heritage, Al-Batni said yesterday on the sidelines of the 5th GCC Heritage and Oral History Conference held in Abu Dhabi, under the slogan ‘Moral Education: An Authentic Part of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Heritage.’ Folk tales will protect children against negative ideas and wrong values spread over social media these days, she noted. It will also enrich their Kuwaiti researcher Bazza Al-Batni. language input and teach them about their society’s traditions and culture, she added. Meanwhile, Batni said she wrote a book on Kuwaiti folklore and her- Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT), Abu Dhabi, underlined the itage and she had translated it into French, German and English to spread importance of moral education for building young generations. knowledge on Kuwait’s heritage around the world. Batni had previously He said “we look forward to applying a unified Gulf approach in the won an award for children stories from the GCC Arab Education Office in field of moral education and other subjects which prepare our children for 1977. She also took part in directing many television and radio shows and the flourishing future.” Organizing the event in UAE enhances efforts programs for Kuwait and the Gulf states, while she is the author of many exerted by the DCT in order to build a promising Gulf partnership on the children books and other folklore books. level of culture and heritage. The event themed “Moral Education: An The conference kicked off on Monday with the participation of some Authentic Part of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Heritage” featured academics, researchers, and experts at Gulf universities and institutions. In several sessions which discussed different expertise and experiments in a speech at inaugurating the event, Saif Ghobash, Director-General of the moral education. — KUNA 4 Established 1961 Local Wednesday, October 18, 2017 GOFSCO hails successful Platinum sponsorship of 3rd Kuwait Oil and Gas Show and Conference CEO participates in panel discussion

KUWAIT: Gas and Oil Fields Services Company (GOF- SCO), one of the largest integrated service providers in Kuwait specializing in the upstream oil and gas sector, both onshore and offshore, hailed the successful Platinum sponsorship of the 3rd Kuwait Oil and Gas Show and Conference (KOGS 2017) which was held from 15 - 18 October 2017 at the Kuwait International Fairground, under the Patronage of His Highness Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah - Prime Minister of the State of Kuwait. The four-day conference focused on science and engineering factors facing the oil and gas industry in Kuwait and shed light on key topics that include petro- leum geosciences, exploration and production, and refining and petrochemical products and services. This year’s conference witnessed Engineer Hussam KUWAIT: Engineer Hussam Ali Marafie Ali Marafie - Chairman and Chief Executive Officer at speaks during the panel discussion. GOFSCO taking part in a panel discussion which was under the theme of ‘Diversification - Value Chain be effectively implemented.” “Although the current mar- Optimization,’ alongside several other industry experts. ket scenario is concerning to most of us, it is also During his discussion, Engineer Marafie outlined histor- important that we look at the many opportunities and ical milestones and key success factors that led to advantages that we experience in the oil sector in Kuwait’s progress and economic prosperity over the Kuwait. Firstly, although there has been decline in oil rev- last few decades. He further elaborated on the impor- enues in the past few years, Kuwait has still largely tance of dissecting progress indicators in today’s eco- retained its investment program in the oil sector and con- nomic climate and taking steps towards fueling the tinues to invest in the crude oil and gas production pro- future particularly for the private sector in Kuwait. gram. Secondly, the diversification of the industry allows untapped opportunities in new markets. The government Competitive advantage has also exercised considerable fairness to companies in Engineer Marafie said: “Gaining competitive advan- the private sector and has provided appropriate oppor- tage within the private sector can be accelerated tunities to both international as well as local service com- Engineer Hussam Ali Marafie poses with GOFSCO staff. through three key factors. Modernization is crucial in panies” commented Engineer Marafie. today’s marketplace and companies must innovate and diversify to remain their client’s preferred supplier Exhibition a comprehensive display of the products and services it cal advancement, innovation and the rising develop- especially when communication lines are short and It is worth mentioning that KOGS 2017 incorporated provides in addition to involving some of its key local ment of the human resources element within this field. worldwide competition is fierce. Companies must also an international exhibition of oil and gas hardware and and international partners’ services. On behalf of GOFSCO, I would like to extend my sin- exercise flexibility in responding to their client needs services and a broad spectrum technical conference Marafie also said: “We are eryv pleased with our cere gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Jaber Al- and continually uphold excellent client orientation skills program, wherein GOFSCO showcased its services and participation and contribution to KOGS 2017. This Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah - Prime Minister of the and be flexible in meeting their demands. Lastly, a products to both a local and international audience. The year’s conference and exhibition was an ideal opportu- State of Kuwait, who most certainly played an excep- transparent and rapid decision making process that is company’s booth housed an array of activities as well as nity for companies that operate in our industry to tional role in ensuring the success of private companies supported by solid justifications and information should address and discuss increasing production, technologi- in Kuwait.”

strong global presence as the world’s sec- EQUATE showcases ond largest producer of ethylene glycol (EG). Being the main host of our industrial int’l achievements operations, EQUATE continues playing a significant role in diversifying Kuwait’s at KOGS 2017 income sources through petrochemicals, supporting the growth of the local plastics industry by over 450 percent since 1998, KUWAIT: The EQUATE Group, a global and contributing with over 60 percent of producer of petrochemicals, sponsored the the value of national non-oil exports.” 3rd Kuwait Oil and Gas Show and Husain noted, “More than 90 percent of Conference (KOGS) 2017 under the the Gulf’s overall income is attributed to patronage of His Highness the Prime the oil, gas and petrochemical sectors. In Minister Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak Al- addition, the petrochemical sector repre- Hamad Al-Sabah. sents this region’s second main source of As one of Kuwait’s biggest industrial income as we export more than 80 percent events, EQUATE sponsored the previous of our products. KOGS events in 2013 and 2015 as part of Making a difference through this sector the Group’s local and global partnership is critical for overall sustainability as petro- with relevant industrial and commercial chemicals are truly part of the future.” stakeholders within and outside the Husain noted, “We hope that KOGS 2017 country. will support efforts aimed at increasing EQUATE’s President and CEO production, technological solutions, overall Mohammad Husain said, “We started as a innovation and developing human local producer in Kuwait and now we enjoy resources.” Established 1961 5 Local Wednesday, October 18, 2017

Photo of the Day

KUWAIT: A group of turtles basking in the sun in Kuwait Zoo. — KUNA

Kuwait projects help 296,000 poor people worldwide, says IICO

KUWAIT: The International Islamic Charity Organization (IICO) said that it has, so far, launched over 34,000 development projects for the benefit of 296,000 people in 32 countries around the world. IICO believes in the importance of development projects and their role in improving living, economic, health, and edu- cational conditions for the poor and needy ones, IICO’s Chairman Dr Abdullah Al-Matouq said. Al-Matouq made his remarks in a press statement on the sidelines of commemorating the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, which was marked yester- day. The organization has given a special attention to the microfinance program via the good loan fund, aiming to expand in civil society development programs and create partnerships with international and regional organizations, he indicated. Around 60,000 poor families around the world have benefited from IICO’s development programs on living, health, and educational levels, Matouq noted. He also added that the organization’s support of small-sized projects in targeted poor societies have contributed sig- nificantly to reducing poverty in these societies, said Matouq. The small-sized projects have made a huge impact in transferring thousands of poor individuals from the con- sumption circle to the production circle, which eventual- ly secured them with stable monthly salaries, he said.

32 countries Matouq also noted that IICO has backed develop- ment projects in 32 Arab, African, and Asian countries via financing small and medium-sized projects. The organization provided easy loans for financing such development projects in cooperation with the local charities in these countries, he said, noting that each project’s average value estimated at $1,000. Matouq also mentioned that IICO’s small loan pro- gram seeks to enhance and improve the poor, desperate, and hungry societies. The program became a strong development tool in alleviating the severity of poverty and reducing its effects on poor societies, he said. It has also become an influential factor in elevating the living levels of poor and needy ones, in addition to creating job opportunities for them, he added. Meanwhile, Matouq urged all donating bodies, mem- bers and charities, to direct their donations and alms in favor of development projects in poor nations. Such a step would empower the poor to transfer to the work and production circle, and enable them to support their families and contribute in their societies’ development, he added. IICO is one of the leading humanitarian organizations that moved towards fighting poverty through the civil society development program, Matouq affirmed. The program has monitored the needs of poor categories and provided them with good loans to finance small- sized projects, he said. It also sought to support the needy ones in targeted societies with life necessities such as food, education, and health, added Matouq. The program backs various vital projects such as commercial, agricultural, industrial, logistical, and production, he said, noting that such proj- ects reflects the beneficiaries’ interests and talents. The program’s indicators of success lies in the total value of all its projects, reaching $36 million, he said, adding that the projects’ loans repayment ratio was 100 percent.

Sustainable development Matouq also mentioned that sustainable development programs in small-sized projects have become very effective in building abilities in targeted poor categories. The programs enabled the poor from pursuing good occupations and securing a decent living for their fami- lies in light of increased non-employment, education costs, and lack of basic human needs, he noted. The IICO chief also said that humanitarian activities are no longer limited to the customary humanitarian relief action, but have surpassed that tradition to human development and occupational production. However, philanthropic societies were recently forced to pay closer attention to the human relief action due to the humanitarian fallouts of ongoing crises around the world, particularly in Syria, Yemen, and Iraq, noted Matouq. — KUNA InternationalWEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2017 Iraqi forces take oil fields, dashing Kurdish dreams With paper in hand, Indonesian maids fight exploitation Page 7 Page 7

GARDEZ: Afghan security personnel walk at the site of a suicide attack at a police training centre in Gardez, capital of Paktia province yesterday. — AFP Suicide bombers, gunmen target Afghan security forces, killing 71

Suspected US drone strikes kill at least 26 Haqqani militants

GARDEZ: Two separate suicide and gun attacks on police suicide bombers driving an explosives-laden truck and a on Twitter showed two large plumes of smoke rising States and China were held in Oman with the aim of end- and soldiers in Afghanistan left at least 71 dead and nearly Humvee blew them up near the training centre, which is above the city. ing the Taleban’s 16-year insurgency. 170 wounded yesterday in the latest devastating assaults close to the Paktia police headquarters. The blasts flat- The second attack, in Ghazni some 100 kilometers Paktia province borders Pakistan’s militancy-plagued on beleaguered security forces. The Taleban claimed the tened a building and enabled gunmen to force their way west of Gardez, followed a similar pattern involving insur- tribal areas where the Taleban-affiliated Haqqani network more deadly of the two assaults, a coordinated attack on inside the compound, gents detonating an has a presence. Yesterday’s attack in Gardez began hours police in the southeast city of Gardez in Paktia province. according to officials and explosives-laden Humvee after a US drone strike in Pakistan’s Kurram tribal district, That assault killed 41 people and injured 158, according to the interior ministry. near a police headquar- part of which borders Paktia, killed at least 26 Haqqani the interior ministry, and left hospital officials calling for “Most of the victims ters then storming the militants, officials have said. A senior commander in the blood donations. are civilians who had building, Haref Noori, the Afghan Taleban said on condition of anonymity the There were desperate scenes as relatives queued for come to the police head- Taleban claims Ghazni governor’s attack was in retaliation for the US aerial assault, the news of loved ones after the hours-long battle. A sepa- quarters to get their spokesman said. “Dozens deadliest targeting militants in the Pakistani tribal region rate ambush blamed on the Taleban in the neighboring passports and national responsibility of Taleban” were killed in this year. On Monday the US also carried out strikes in province of Ghazni killed 25 security officials and five IDs,” a statement from the attack, Ghazni police the Jaji Maidan district of Paktia “under counter-terror civilians with 10 wounded, the interior ministry said. the Paktia governor’s for the deadly chief Mohammad Zaman authorities”, said US Forces spokesman Navy Captain Afghanistan’s army and police, on the front line against office said. A university said. Afghan President Tom Gresback. the Taleban since foreign combat forces pulled back in student who was in class attacks Ashraf Ghani condemned In Kurram last week the Pakistani military rescued a December 2014, have suffered shocking casualties over at the time said he heard the attacks and praised US-Canadian family who had been abducted by militants the past year. Their ranks are beset by corruption and “a big boom” which the “bravery and sacri- in Afghanistan in 2012. US President Donald Trump has desertion. “The hospital is overwhelmed and we call on shook the building and fice” of security forces. said they were being held by the Haqqani network. The people to donate blood,” said Shir Mohammad Karimi, shattered windows. “As extremist group is known for its frequent use of suicide deputy health director in Gardez, who put the number of we were trying to find our way (out of the building) I Drone strike bombers. The Haqqanis have also been accused of assas- wounded there at more than 200. heard a second blast and then the dust and dirt covered The attacks are the latest in a series of assaults on sinating top Afghan officials and holding kidnapped Doctors and nurses rushed to attend the wounded us in the class. Several of my classmates were wounded security installations, including one on a military hospital Westerners for ransom. These include the recently res- women, children and police filling the corridors where by broken glass,” Noor Ahmad said. The battle between in Kabul in March which may have killed up to 100 peo- cued hostages Canadian Joshua Boyle, his American wife some bodies also lay. Outside, university students formed the attackers, armed with guns and suicide vests, and ple, and a devastating attack on a base in Mazar-i-Sharif Caitlan Coleman, and their three children-all born in cap- a queue to donate blood, an AFP photographer said. The security forces lasted around five hours before it ended which left 144 people dead. They came one day after four- tivity-as well as US soldier Bowe Bergdahl, who was attack, claimed by the Taleban in a tweet, began when two with all five militants killed, officials said. Photos posted way talks between Afghanistan, Pakistan, the United released in 2014. — AFP

Arab jihadists including Osama Bin Laden who flocked to Who are Haqqanis, the region during the war. Later, Jalaluddin became a minister in the Taleban regime. Now designated a terrorist group by the US, the Afghanistan’s most Haqqanis are known for their heavy use of suicide bombers. They were blamed for the truck bomb deep in the heart of Kabul in May that killed around 150 people- feared insurgents? though Sirajuddin later denied the accusation in a rare audio message. The network has also been accused of ISLAMABAD: The rescue of an abducted US-Canadian assassinating top Afghan officials and holding kidnapped family in Pakistan last week has spotlighted their captors Westerners for ransom. That includes recently released the Haqqani network, former CIA assets now considered Canadian Joshua Boyle, his American wife Caitlan Coleman, one of the most dangerous factions fighting US-led and their three children-all born in captivity-as well as US NATO forces in Afghanistan. Led by Sirajuddin Haqqani, soldier Bowe Bergdahl, who was released in 2014. who doubles as the Afghan Taleban’s deputy leader, the extremist group has been blamed for spectacular attacks Where are they now? across Afghanistan since after the US invasion. Following the US invasion of Afghanistan, Taleban Long suspected of links to Pakistan’s shadowy military fighters flooded across the border into Pakistan, where establishment, the network was described by US Admiral they regrouped before launching an insurgency against Mike Mullen in 2011 as a “veritable arm” of Pakistani the Americans. That included the Haqqanis, who coordi- intelligence. “When you hear US officials, including in pri- nated attacks on NATO from across the border in their vate settings, talking about what worries them the most, stronghold of Miran Shah, the biggest town in North KABUL: Afghan National Army (ANA) commandos fire during a mil- they always talk about the Haqqanis,” said analyst Waziristan, one of Pakistan’s semi-autonomous border itary exercise at the Kabul Military Training Centre (KMTC) on the Michael Kugelman, of the Wilson Center in Washington. tribal areas. The US has launched repeated drone outskirts of Kabul yesterday. — AFP attacks targeting the group-including one late Monday- Who are they? while Pakistan’s military has conducted successive clear- Linked to Pakistan? broadly the Afghan Taleban as a useful asset to help push The group was founded by Jalaluddin Haqqani, an ing operations, though skeptical Afghan officials have Pakistan sees its arch-nemesis to the east, India, as an back against the presence of India in Afghanistan.” Afghan mujahideen commander fighting the Soviet occu- noted they always seemed to miss the Haqqanis. Pakistan existential threat, and has long sought influence over Kabul Politicians and retired military officials in Islamabad pation of Afghanistan in the 1980s with the help of the US intensified a military operation in the area in 2014, how- as a bulwark against Delhi. The Haqqanis have frequently acknowledge privately that having open channels with the and Pakistan. Jalaluddin gained notoriety for his organiza- ever, and some militant sources say the pressure has been accused of targeting Indian installations in Afghanistan, Haqqanis is vital. Some stressed the nature of the connection. tion and bravery, garnering attention from the CIA and a forced many of the Haqqanis underground or over the spurring speculation they were overseen by Pakistani intelli- “There’s a difference between contact and supporting them personal visit from US congressman Charlie Wilson. A flu- border into their Afghan strongholds, claims that AFP gence agencies. “For Pakistan the calculus comes down to or being part of them,” Mehmood Shah, a retired brigadier ent Arabic speaker, Jalaluddin also fostered close ties with could not confirm. India,” said Kugelman. “It views the Haqqanis and also more who worked in Pakistan’s tribal areas said. — AFP Established 1961 7 International Wednesday, October 18, 2017 Iraq forces take oil fields’ dashing Kurdish dreams After losing Kirkuk, Kurdish forces pull out of Sinjar

BAI HASSAN: Iraqi forces took control of the two Roussel said that without the revenues from Kirkuk largest oil fields in the disputed northern province of oil, the Kurds would never have set in motion the Kirkuk yesterday demolishing Kurdish hopes of creat- September 25 referendum that delivered a resounding ing a viable independent state. The Kurds withdrew ‘yes’ for independence but at the cost of triggering mili- without a fight after federal government troops and tary intervention by Baghdad. “It was only after the militia entered the city of Kirkuk and seized the provin- annexation of the two Kirkuk fields in July 2014 that cial governor’s office and key military bases in response Kurdish president Massud Barzani started to talk of to a Kurdish vote for independence last month. independence. Before, he spoke only of autonomy.” The fields accounted for around 250,000 barrels per Kirkuk lies outside the autonomous region but is one of day of the 650,000 bpd that the autonomous Kurdish a string of historically Kurdish-majority territory that region exported under its own auspices and their loss the Kurds have long wanted to incorporate in it against deals a huge blow to its already parlous finances and its the wishes of Baghdad. Kurdish forces took over many dreams of economic self-sufficiency. Iraqi forces took of them in 2014 when units of the Iraqi army disinte- down the red, white, green and yellow Kurdish flags grated in the face of the jihadists’ lightning advance. that had flown over the pumping stations of the Yazidi massacre Bai Hassan and Havana town falls oil fields and raised the But since entering the national flag, an AFP city of Kirkuk on photographer reported. Monday, government The fields’ Kurdish tech- Iraqi soldiers forces have moved to nicians had halted pro- take down retake them one by one. duction and fled on Yesterday, troops and Monday evening ahead Kurdish flags militia entered the Yazidi of the entry of federal Kurdish town of Sinjar government troops and after peshmerga forces police. withdrew without a Police Colonel Ahmed fight, the Hashed Al- Modhi hailed the restora- Shaabi paramilitary tion of federal control over the two fields, which the force said. They also entered the town of Khanaqin, on Kurds had taken over during the chaos that followed the the Iranian border, and three other towns in Diyala Islamic State group’s lightning advance through north- province northeast of Baghdad, a provincial security ern and western Iraq in 2014. “It’s a national resource official said. Sinjar, in the northwest, is infamous as the and it belongs to Iraq, just like the natural resources of site of one of the Islamic State group’s worst atrocities, the country as a whole,” Modhi said. Oil exports via a when it killed thousands of Yazidi men and abducted pipeline through neighboring Turkey account for a sig- KIRKUK: Photo shows the cement barriers surrounding the Kirkuk Governorate building thousands of women and girls as sex slaves in August in the multi-ethnic northern Iraqi city. Iraqi forces took control of the two largest oil fields nificant share of the autonomous Kurdish government’s 2014. Tens of thousands of civilians fled into the nearby in the disputed northern province of Kirkuk demolishing Kurdish hopes of creating a revenues. They have always riled Baghdad which views mountains in appalling conditions, helping to trigger US viable independent state. — AFP them as a breach of the constitution that makes them a intervention against the jihadists. The Yazidis are federal responsibility. Kurdish-speaking but follow their own non-Muslim faith that earned them the hatred of the Sunni Muslim sion within Kurdish ranks over last month’s independ- the face of the federal government’s advance. It was they ‘End of the dream’ extremists of IS. ence referendum. Peshmerga forces loyal to the Patriotic who abandoned Sinjar and the two Kirkuk oil fields. In The autonomous Kurdish region is already going Union of Kurdistan, historic rival of Barzani’s Kurdistan Kirkuk, the army’s 12th Division was able to restore through its worst economic crisis after Baghdad sev- ‘Betrayal’ Democratic Party, withdrew under an agreement with some of its wounded pride from the collapse of 2014, as ered its air links with the outside world and neighboring Kurdish forces captured Sinjar from IS in 2015 and Baghdad, officials said. The KDP accused the PUK of its armored cars entered its former K1 base in the north- Iran closed its border to trade in oil products. “With the the town’s loss is a symbolic blow for the Kurdish lead- “betrayal”. The PUK, the party of Iraqi President Fuad west of the city on Monday. Yesterday, as it became loss of these fields, Kurdish finances have been cut in ership. Ten peshmerga fighters were killed as they Masum, had supported a UN-backed plan for negotia- clear that the feared bloodshed was not going to materi- half,” French geographer and Kurdistan specialist Cyril exchanged artillery fire with the army before it entered tions with Baghdad in exchange for dropping the refer- alise, some of the tens of thousands of Kurdish residents Roussel said. “It spells the end of Kurdistan’s economic Kirkuk on Monday but otherwise its advance has been endum called by Barzani. who had fled the city began to return to their homes, self-sufficiency and of the dream of independence.” largely bloodless. That has been helped by a sharp divi- But KDP peshmerga too pulled out without a fight in security sources said.— AFP

viding cellphone coverage are often (ANPC) has been slow to react and damaged during the blazes, making it deploy the necessary equipment and Why are impossible for Portugal’s various emer- personnel, the report found. It said a gency services to communicate. The water-carrying helicopter the ANPC Portugal’s experts found that their communications said it had sent on the night the June systems were also based on “worn-out blazes erupted had never even left technologies”, but AFP reporters cover- the ground. The experts also discov- wildfires so ing last June’s inferno at times saw fire- ered questionable choices in terms of fighters having to ask locals for direc- who was in charge at the agency, tions. Portugal’s league of volunteer fire- with many postings attributed to deadly? fighters called Monday for “more mod- officials who lacked the requisite ern and robust” equipment. skills. The report advised a more rig- LISBON: For the second time in four orous selection of “professionals months, firefighters are struggling to con- Quick-burning eucalyptus having the required expertise and tain a series of wildfires that are consum- Portugal’s paper industry relies experience”. ing thousands of acres across Portugal- heavily on fast-growing eucalyptus, a and killing scores of people trapped by the highly flammable tree. The experts Too close to nature flames. Here are some of the principal advised planting more oak, chestnut and Many Portuguese towns and villages causes of the blazes and reasons they turn other trees instead of the eucalyptus are nestled in or next to forests, and both deadly so quickly, based on a report by 12 and pines found across the country, and homeowners and municipalities often fail experts released last Thursday. The report in July parliament approved a gradual to fully assess the fire risks, neglecting for was commissioned by parliament after the reduction of eucalyptus cultivation. example to clear enough brush from huge fire that ravaged the Pedrogao around homes and buildings. On Monday, Grande region in central Portugal in June, Reactive not proactive Portugal’s interior minister Constanca which left 64 dead. Portugal does not have enough mete- Urbano said many farmers and residents orologists capable of giving sufficient were continuing to burn dead leaves on Ill-trained volunteers warning in case of looming dry periods their land despite the drought. Most firefighters in Portugal are vol- or unseasonal temperature spikes. As a unteers, meaning a fast-spreading fire result, the government is often caught by Stubborn myth and no plan can quickly overwhelm their efforts to surprise when multiple fires erupt: In It’s a common belief for many in contain it. The report called for the cre- June, which was much hotter than nor- Portugal that most wildfires are caused ation of more professional brigades and mal, it should have readied and rein- by arsonists, a myth the experts would a revamp of the national firefighter forced firefighting teams-something it like to see put to rest for good. The June training institute, as well as improved normally does in July. As a result, the fire, they said, was caused by over- coordination with the Portuguese army, experts found that in the current struc- loaded electricity networks and light- which was found to be under-utilized ture, teams are capable of reacting to ning. But they also criticized Portugal’s during natural disasters. wildfires, but cannot anticipate them. leaders for failing to develop a coherent strategy with each new government Communication breakdowns Civil protection snafus scrapping the previous efforts and Telephone lines and antennas pro- Portugal’s civil protection agency starting over from scratch.— AFP

some of the most common abuses Indonesian domestic With paper in hand, helpers face, according to campaigners. Unlike their coun- terparts who work overseas, who must go through exten- sive training regulated by the government, there are no Indonesian maids such provisions for local maids. Suryani said she brushed up her skills on cooking dif- fight exploitation ferent cuisines, housekeeping and childcare during her training, as well as learning English and using computers. At the end of the 200-hour course last year and after a KUALA LUMPUR: Like millions of Indonesian women who test, she received a certificate given by a national profes- earn a living through domestic work, Leni Suryani thought sional certification board that recognized her skills. “It that long hours for a meagre salary was just the lot of a taught me how to work more efficiently,” Suryani told the maid. But a pilot training scheme for domestic workers Thomson Reuters Foundation by phone from Jakarta. “My helped her improve her skills and earn a certificate, giving employer, an American expatriate family, was happy with her the confidence to ask for a higher salary. “I have been a the certificate I got and the way I work, it gave me confi- domestic helper for 15 years, I didn’t think this piece of dence to ask for a higher salary and they agreed.” paper is important, I was wrong,” said the 33-year-old mother, who worked as a maid in Singapore and Malaysia Overworked, unprotected for six years before returning to Indonesia in 2003. The International Labour Organization (ILO), which Suryani is one the first graduates from the training runs the training with local workers’ groups, said about which aims to enhance domestic workers’ skills and win 200 women have been trained in different batches since recognition for their work as a profession in a bid to fight 2016, with the most recent group of 40 completing their exploitation and modern slavery. While Indonesia is a major provider of maids for places like Singapore, Malaysia, Hong course in August this year. Its national advocacy specialist, Kong and the Middle East, some four million Indonesian Irfan Afandi, said domestic work is poorly regulated in women are also employed in households locally to cook, Indonesia, and most maids are overworked, underpaid and clean or to look after children and the elderly. unprotected. Some earn as little as the equivalent of $150 Maids account for the biggest group of Indonesian each month. “The laws don’t see them as formal workers women who work. Despite this, they are not considered and many maids themselves are unaware of what exploita- formal workers, leaving them vulnerable to abuses and tion is,” Afandi said. “They think working from 6am to 8pm unprotected under local labour laws. Excessive working is normal and they should do anything they are told - from hours, lack of a formal contract, unpaid wages are just cooking to car washing and gardening. —Reuters 8 Established 1961 Wednesday, October 18, 2017 International Investigative journalist murdered for ‘exposing corruption’ in Malta PM accused of turning Malta into a ‘mafia island’ VALLETTA: The son of a slain Maltese journalist yester- down and there were my mother’s body parts all around day described finding his mother’s body in pieces after a me. I realized they were right, it was hopeless.” Muscat car bombing and accused Prime Minister Joseph Muscat described the killing as “barbaric” and vowed to bring the of being “complicit” in her grisly killing. Matthew Caruana perpetrators to justice. That pledge was dismissed by the Galizia, himself a journalist involved in digesting the victim’s son, who said even one of the police officers Panama Papers, said his mother had been assassinated for involved in investigating the murder had celebrated his doing her job in investigating alleged corruption. In an mother’s death online. emotional post on his Facebook page, the son of whistle- “A culture of impunity has been allowed to flourish by blowing blogger Daphne Caruana Galizia accused Muscat the government in Malta,” he wrote. “It is of little comfort of filling his office with crooks and creating a culture of for the Prime Minister of this country to say that he will ‘not impunity that had turned Malta into a “mafia island”. rest’ until the perpetrators are found, when he heads a gov- His mother was a veteran journalist, once described as a ernment that encouraged that same impunity. “First he filled “one-woman Wikileaks”, his office with crooks, then who used her widely-read he filled the police with blog to make a series of crooks and imbeciles, then detailed allegations of he filled the courts with corruption in Muscat’s crooks and incompetents. inner circle, some based Son describes “If the institutions were on the Panama Papers already working, there data leak. Her killing has finding mother’s would be no assassination triggered an outpouring to investigate - and my of grief on the island of body in pieces brothers and I would still just 430,000 people, with have a mother.” thousands turning out to an overnight candlelit vigil Assange reward in her memory in the The judge in charge of fortress capital Valletta. investigating the murder Further “Justice for Daphne” demonstrations were sched- stepped aside from the case yesterday following objec- uled yesterday. The journalist was the fourth person to die tions from the Caruana Galizia family that she was too in a Malta car bombing in just over a year but previous close to the Labor Party administration. Magistrate attacks were all linked to criminal feuds and did not gener- Consuelo Scerri Herrera had been accused of misconduct BIDNIJA, Malta: Police and forensic experts inspect the wreckage of a car bomb believed to have killed jour- ate anything like the shock created by Caruana’s death. by the blogger and had threatened her with libel proceed- nalist and blogger Daphne Caruana Galizia close to her home in Bidnija yesterday. — AFP ings. Caruana Galizia’s death came four months after The inferno Muscat won a landslide victory in elections that were “I am never going to forget, running around the inferno called early after she accused his wife of taking kickbacks The so-called Panama Papers revealed how wealthy pressure to fire the pair, insisting their accounts were in the field, trying to figure out a way to open the door, the from Azerbaijan’s ruling family and hiding the cash in a individuals around the world, including a number of politi- related to their private business and they had done noth- horn of the car still blaring, screaming at two policemen secret Panama bank account. The claims, which Muscat cians, used shell companies based in the Latin American ing illegal. Wikileaks founder Julian Assange offered a who turned up with a single fire extinguisher to use it,” fervently denies, were the latest in a string of scandals on state and other tax havens to hide cash. Among those 20,000 euros reward for anyone who provided informa- Matthew Caruana wrote. “They stared at me. ‘I’m sorry, the island based on information leaked from the records of exposed were Keith Schembri, Muscat’s chief of staff, and tion about the attack leading to the conviction of those there is nothing we can do”, one of them said. “I looked Panama law firm Mossack Fonseca. Konrad Mizzi, a government minister. The premier resisted responsible. — AFP

News in brief Military chopper missing Pro-Biafran leader TOKYO: A Japanese military helicopter with four peo- ple on board went missing yesterday during a drill in absent as Nigeria the Pacific off central Japan, the defense ministry said. The Black Hawk helicopter of the Air Self-Defense Force disappeared from radar at around 6:00 pm treason trial (0900 GMT), some 31 kilometers (19 miles) south of Hamamatsu, a ministry spokesman said. Some parts suspected to have belonged to the rescue chopper resumes were found floating around the area, the spokesman said, adding: “We are searching for the four crew ABUJA: The leader of a pro-Biafran group that wants to members.” Quoting a government source, Kyodo News break away from Nigeria failed to appear in court yester- said the helicopter, which was conducting a night time day as his treason trial was scheduled to resume. Nnamdi search-and-rescue drill, was likely to have crashed. Kanu, who heads the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) movement, was nowhere to be seen as proceedings resumed at the Federal High Court in the capital, Abuja. A thief in a suitcase Prosecutor Shuaibu Labaran said Kanu’s absence was “contrary to the order of this court” but the separatist LILLE: It was a mystery that had police puzzled for a leader’s lawyer, Ifeanyi Ejiofor, said: “I don’t know where while: a rash of thefts reported by passengers who had my client is. “The home of the first defendant (Kanu) was taken the 75-minute bus trip between Paris and invaded by soldiers and since that time I have not heard Beauvais airport. An eagle-eyed driver has been cred- from him. I cannot tell... whether (he) is alive or dead.” ited with helping crack the case last week after he Ejiofor also suggested Kanu was “in the custody of the spotted a suspicious suitcase being loaded onto his (federal government)”. bus as he prepared to drive from Paris to the airport, a Judge Binta Nyako adjourned the case until hub for low-cost airlines. Acting on his tip-off about a November 20, pending more information as to Kanu’s large brown bag that appeared to be moving on its whereabouts. Kanu and three other defendants, who UMUAHIA, Nigeria: Photo shows political activist and leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) move- own, police at Beauvais pounced on a Romanian man were remanded in custody, are facing several charges ment, Nnamdi Kanu, wearing a Jewish prayer shawl and posing in the garden of his house in Umuahia, who picked up the suitcase and a smaller black ruck- linked to his calls for a separate state for the Igbo people, southeast Nigeria. —AFP sack as he arrived. After arresting him, detectives the majority in Nigeria’s southeast. He was first arrested found an accomplice hidden inside the case who, once in October 2015, stoking grievances that have festered alone in the baggage hold during the trip, would pull a since a previous declaration of independence in 1967 ordered to pay sureties totaling 300 million naira of Umuahia and the surrounding area. The IPOB leader’s strap to unzip himself and then begin his thieving. “In sparked a bloody, 30-month civil war. The conflict left at ($835,000, 710,000 euros) to ensure his attendance at tri- younger brother, Prince Emmanuel Kanu, said the army the black bag we found two laptops, money and vari- least one million people dead, most of them Igbos from al. Ejiofor told reporters at the time they were “very sure attacked the family’s compound last month, killing 28.The ous objects of value,” a police source said on condition the effects of starvation and disease, as federal forces we will fulfil the conditions for bail”. But since then, Kanu army has denied the claim and also that they were holding of anonymity. Both men, aged around 40, were from blockaded the fledgling state. has rarely been out of the spotlight. Kanu, but their tactics come in for criticism for fueling ten- Romania and had criminal records for theft. He told AFP in an interview in May to mark the 50th sions in the restive region. Threat of violence anniversary of the declaration of independence that he Comparisons have been drawn to Boko Haram’s founder Kanu, who also runs the London-based Radio Biafra was “more determined than ever” to secure a breakaway Muhammad Yusuf, who died in custody in 2009 during a ‘No’ to anti-Semitism station, was released on bail in April this year on health republic. He also called for “civil disobedience” until a ref- military crackdown in the northeastern city of Maiduguri. grounds but under strict terms. The judge ruled that he erendum was granted on self-determination. Kanu’s “If anything happens to him (Kanu), the reactions are likely JERUSALEM: Austria’s election winner Sebastian should not attend any rally, be in a crowd of more than 10 whereabouts have been the source of increasing specula- to be very violent in the southeast,” said security consult- Kurz, who may form a coalition with the far-right, people or give any media interviews while on bail. He was tion in recent weeks, after a military surge in his home city ant Don Okereke.— AFP vowed “zero tolerance” on anti-Semitism in any future government, in an interview published in Israel yester- day. “The battle against anti-Semitism and our policy of zero tolerance against all anti-Semitic tendencies is while grazing,” he said. “We didn’t take the law into our very important to me,” Kurz told the right-wing Israel own hands but reported the incident to the military and Three killed Hayom newspaper. “It is a clear pre-condition for the At least 29 killed police authorities and secured their permission to bury formation of any coalition under my leadership,” the the decapitated bodies.” in Togo after 31-year-old conservative told the paper, which is a firm in central Nigeria backer of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Resource conflict Kurz’s People’s Party (OeVP) won 31.5 percent of the Plateau state lies on the dividing line between imam arrested vote on Sunday, near-complete results show, and his JOS, Nigeria: At least 29 people were killed in a new Nigeria’s mainly Christian south and the mostly Muslim most likely coalition partner is seen as the populist flare-up of violence in central Nigeria targeting people north. It has seen sporadic violence and tensions for LOME: Three people were killed as violence broke out in Freedom Party (FPOe), third on 26.0 percent. When sheltered in a primary school, prompting President decades. The violence has been attributed to a battle Togo’s second city, Sokode, after an imam close to the the FPOe last entered government, in 2000 under for- Muhammadu Buhari to issue an appeal to “stop the for resources because of drought and desertification in country’s main opposition was arrested, the government mer head Joerg Haider, who praised Hitler’s “orderly” madness”. The attack happened on Monday in Plateau northern Nigeria and the wider Sahel region, forcing said yesterday. “Two soldiers on guard duty at the home of employment policies and praised SS veterans, Israel state, which has been dogged for years by ethnic, sec- herders further south. Farming communities, most of a VIP were lynched and executed and their weapons and suspended relations. tarian and religious unrest. Sunday Audu, the head of which are Christian, have complained the herdsmen, ammunition were taken,” it said in a statement. “A young the Irigwe Community Development Association, said who are mainly Muslim, damage their fields and crops person also died and about 20 other civilians and members armed men stormed the school in the village of Nkyie with their livestock. The problem is also linked to wider of the security forces were injured,” it added. Two journalists freed Doghwro, in the Bassa area of the state. issues, with the farmers seen as “indigenous” and the Amnesty International’s country representative, Aime Hundreds of local residents had sought refuge there herdsmen “foreigners”, even if they have lived in the Adi, told AFP the young person killed was an apprentice DHAKA: Bangladesh allowed two journalists from for fear of reprisal attacks, after unidentified assailants area for generations. upholsterer and was shot. The clashes came against a Myanmar detained while reporting about fleeing Rohingya killed six cattle herders on Sunday. “Our people were Fulani leaders say they are deprived of basic rights, backdrop of anti-government protests led by Tikpi Muslims to fly home yesterday and was dropping charges attacked... with 29 dead, three injured at a school used such as access to land, education and even political Atchadam, from the Panafrican National Party (PNP), who has a power base in the northern city. Ouro Akpo against them, their lawyer said. Minzayar Oo and Hkun as a camp and protected by security,” Audu told office. Tensions frequently boil over and more than Tchagnaou, from the National Alliance for Change (ANC) Lat were picked up from the Cox Bazar’s region in early reporters in the Plateau state capital, Jos, on Monday. 10,000 people have been killed in the state since the September because they were working as journalists on Plateau police spokesman Tyopev Terna confirmed the party, said: “Electricity was cut off at about 7:00 pm (2100 turn of the century, according to groups tracking the GMT on Monday) after evening prayers. “Five police vehi- tourist visas, police said. They were released on bail after attack but declined to give a death toll. violence. Last month, the International Crisis Group cles arrived to arrest Alpha Alassane, a very well-known calls from Germany’s GEO magazine, which had assigned Audu blamed the killings on the mostly nomadic (ICG) warned in a report that the clashes threatened Minzayar Oo to cover the influx of Rohingya refugees from imam in the city,” he added. “The population felt targeted Fulani herdsmen, accusing them of being “in denial of Nigeria’s national security and were becoming as dan- and took to the streets.” Myanmar, as well as rights groups. “It’s so good to be free sponsoring these attacks”. But the head of the Miyetti gerous as Boko Haram Islamists. It called for more Clashes lasted throughout the night until calm was again,” Minzayar Oo, one of Myanmar’s most prominent Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria cooperation and the adoption of measures such as bet- restored but the authorities have been warned of renewed photographers, told Reuters soon after his plane landed in (MACBAN) in Bassa, Umaru Sangare, denied claims ter rural security, designated grazing areas and conflict protests if Alassane is not freed yesterday morning. “The the Thai capital of Bangkok. Bangladesh authorities had they were to blame. “We have no hand in the attack resolution programs.Southern leaders, however, believe situation was hard to put up with last night. The security begun the process to drop the charges against the pair, against the Irigwe, despite the fact that our six men President Buhari lacks the political will to tackle the forces and youths clashed in several parts of the city, with their lawyer, Jyotirmoy Barua, said. were killed on Sunday and beheaded at Bajju village problem, as the Fulani are his kinsmen. —AFP teargas and stone-throwing,” one local said. —AFP Established 1961 9 International Wednesday, October 18, 2017 ‘Vanishing village’ looks to Japan LDP for survival Nanmoku trying to survive by luring young city dwellers

NANMOKU: Chikara Imai, 73, is quick to dismiss the abandoned. Few customers come by the several general new parties in Sunday’s national election in Japan, say- shops that remain open. The village’s sole remaining ing old ties with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s Liberal elementary school has just 24 students this year, down Democratic Party is what the country’s most elderly from a high of 1,632 in 1959, when Nanmoku operated village needs for survival. Nanmoku, 107 km northwest three grade schools. Farms that used to grow devil’s of Tokyo, is at the forefront of Japan’s battle against an tongue, a starchy potato-like plant, have yielded to ageing and shrinking population. Its population has large-scale operations in other municipalities blessed halved over the past 20 years to 1,963, and with a with ample farm land. median age of 70.6, Nanmoku is now Japan’s oldest “Until this day, we have not found a substitute municipality. (industry),” Nanmoku Mayor Saijo Hasegawa told Nanmoku and places like it across Japan are a key Reuters. With independent revenue sources covering support base for the LDP, which has been in power for less than 20 percent of the village’s budget, Hasegawa most of the past six decades. “Rural Japan is no Tokyo. sees a continuity in government support for Nanmoku Those people may say something ideal in Tokyo, some- as essential, and is wary of a change in government. thing like ‘Let’s change Japan’. But here, it won’t strike “There’s no such thing as one-year plan to fight popula- home,” Imai said. Sunday’s lower house election pits tion decline. It takes 20, 30 years for any measures to Abe’s LDP-led coalition against two brand new parties: take effect,” Hasegawa said. “In a change of govern- the Party of Hope headed by popular Tokyo Governor ment, politicians tend to deny everything about the for- Yuriko Koike; and the mer government, which centre-left Constitutional is scary.” Democratic Party of Japan’s demographic Japan, which emerged challenge is one of the from a breakup of the biggest facing the new traditional opposition Elderly account government after Democratic Party. Sunday’s elections. But Koike’s “reformist, for 27 percent People aged 65 or older conservative” challenge account for 27.2 percent doesn’t resonate much in of population of the total population, Nanmoku. Most munici- the highest on record, palities are shrinking in while the population is Japan, so far the only forecast to fall by nearly important developed a third by 2065 when country with a declining almost 40 percent will population. They look to Tokyo for a lifeline. “For back be 65 or older. Japan’s government has earmarked a country dwellers, strong ties with the central govern- record 32.5 trillion yen ($29 billion) this fiscal year to ment come in handy when we need to ask for help in pay for social security services, the bulk of which is such times as a natural disaster. This village has no spent on the elderly. Social security outlays account for option but to support them,” the 73-year-old Imai said. roughly a third of this year’s national budget. Gunma prefecture, where Nanmoku is located, has long been an LDP stronghold and has produced four Recruiting city-dwellers TOKYO: Pedestrians walk at Ginza shopping district in Tokyo yesterday. Japan will hold a prime ministers, including Keizo Obuchi, premier from As part of a drive to tackle Japan’s demographic snap general election on October 22. —AFP 1998-2000. time-bomb, the government in 2009 started a program to financially help local municipalities recruit urbanites Devil’s tongue to work in agriculture and other sectors for eventual ing so environmentally-conscious young people will listic missiles that flew over Japan in recent months. “It’s On Sunday, the Nanmoku municipality will provide settlement. Yohka Tanaka, who grew up in Tokyo and follow in his foot steps. “This place is perfect for natural a dangerous world,” said Kaneta, who believes the LDP transportation to elderly villagers who would otherwise went to college in the United States, moved to farming ... As long as I stick around, the village won’t is better equipped to handle security matters. “Strange have difficulty getting to the polls. Mountains account Nanmoku two years ago through the program. He is disappear.” For Shigeyuki Kaneta, a comparatively objects are flying around. If they fell (on Japanese soil), for 90 percent of Nanmoku’s total land area, leaving lit- now working on natural farming, which uses no pesti- young resident at 46 who owns a confectionary shop, we wouldn’t (just) be discussing population decline.” — tle space for farming and housing. Some of the houses, cides or fertilizers. escalating tensions over North Korea does raise that Reuters built along a river running through the village, look Tanaka, 26, aims to prove the viability of such farm- distinct possibility. North Korea has launched two bal-

Asia struggles to meet the target to lower deaths during childbirth

BANGKOK: It seemed a simple state- ment: women should not die from complications related to pregnancy or childbirth. Yet two years after world leaders agreed to 17 global goals at the United Nations, including the childbirth target, countries in Asia Pacific are grappling to twin the rhet- oric with social, cultural and political realities. An estimated 85,000 moth- ers died in 2015 from childbirth in the UKHIA: A Rohingya woman carries a child as they cross a shallow region, home to more than half of canal after crossing the Naf River. —AFP the world’s population and some of its fastest growing economies, UN fig- Reducing maternal deaths requires Too good to be true? ures show, with the maternal mortality political will, government foresight Campbell said it was not entirely rate seen as a key way to measure and access to family planning, accurate to chart a country’s progress improvement in a nation’s health. according to campaigners. “(This is) using a global goal. Another way to These deaths accounted for 28 an issue that’s still too often seen as measure progress, she suggested, was percent of the global total, translating medical, and strictly related to to use country level targets, such as into a maternal mortality ratio (MMR) women’s life. aiming to reduce maternal deaths by at of 127 deaths per 100,000 live births, It’s not,” Federica Maurizio, a sex- least two-thirds from 2010, and for no according to the UN agency for pop- ual health and reproductive rights country to have an MMR greater than ulation UNFPA, which released its expert at UNFPA in Bangkok, told the 140 deaths per 100,000 live births by latest State of the World Population Thomson Reuters Foundation. 2030. Campbell also cautioned that data Report yesterday. Up to 90 percent “Maternal health ... is one of the key is weak in many countries due to a lack of these deaths occur in 12 countries, indicators that really tells you how of civil registration and poor cause-of- according to UNFPA whose officials much the health system in a country is death records. This could mean calcula- have calculated which are likely to able to provide for the people.” Oona tions of Afghanistan’s dramatic improve- meet the global target of reducing its Campbell, professor of epidemiology ment, hailed as one of the gains of for- MMR to below 70 deaths per and reproductive health at the eign aid there, may be an overestimate, 100,000 live births by 2030. London School of Hygiene and said Campbell. UN figures showed the Bangladesh, Laos, East Timor and Tropical Medicine, said it raises wider maternal mortality rate had dropped to Indonesia are seen as likely to meet issues of women’s place in society. 396 deaths per 100,000 live births in the deadline. But Afghanistan, Nepal, “Do we care about women? Do we 2015 from 1,600 deaths in 2002 after Papua New Guinea, Myanmar, think it’s not a problem if the wife the US-led invasion that ousted the Pakistan, India, Cambodia and the dies? Is this something we care about Taleban after the Sept 11 attacks in Philippines, are seen as failing to enough to deliver services that are 2001. But Afghanistan’s own data put its reach the target by varying degrees. good quality?” she said. MMR three times higher. —Reuters

heightened global tension following North Korea’s nuclear Japan’s PM sends tests and missile launches, which prompted the UN Security Council to impose fresh sanctions. Health Minister Katsunobu Kato also sent an ritual offering to the ritual offering to shrine, a spokesperson for the shrine said. Past visits to Yasukuni by Japanese leaders have out- Yasukuni shrine raged Beijing and Seoul because it honors 14 Japanese leaders convicted by an Allied tribunal as war criminals, along with Japan’s war dead. China’s position on the shrine TOKYO: Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe sent a ritu- was clear, Foreign Ministry spokesman Lu Kang told al offering to the Yasukuni Shrine for war dead, seen in reporters in Beijing. “We urge the Japanese side to China and the two Koreas as a symbol of Japan’s past earnestly, squarely and deeply reflect on their history of militarism, to mark its annual autumn festival, the shrine aggression, appropriately handle the relevant issue and said yesterday. Abe was expected to refrain from visiting take actual steps to win the trust of their Asian neighbors the shrine during the festival, which will last until Friday, and the international community,” Lu said. the Nikkei business daily and Kyodo news agency Abe has only visited the shrine in person once, in reported. He is scheduled to visit northern Japan, Akita December 2013, since becoming premier the previous prefecture and Yamagata prefecture, for an election cam- year. Rather than attend in person, Abe sends a ritual paign stump yesterday, Kyodo news said. offering on several occasions in an effort to improve ties His ruling coalition is on track for a big win in Sunday’s with China and South Korea, which have been strained general election - even though almost half the country’s by territorial and other disputes. Japan, China and South voters don’t want him to keep his job, a media survey Korea are trying to hold a summit meeting this year, the showed on Monday. Abe’s snap election comes amid Nikkei business said. —Reuters 10 Established 1961

Analysis Wednesday, October 18, 2017

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

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

FOCUS

Midnight in Toulouse: How CSeries deal shook status quo

Two years ago, Airbus Chief Executive Tom Enders halted negotiations to buy Canada’s CSeries program at midnight after the talks with Bombardier leaked to Reuters. Yesterday, he performed a U-turn by back- ing a similar deal after all - again at dead of night. The nocturnal gymnastics by Europe’s largest aerospace group stunned the aircraft industry which had been riveted for weeks by a trade dispute between Boeing and Bombardier that threatened to hit the CSeries with large US import fees. Now, the 110-130-seat jet will be built for US air- lines at Airbus’s Alabama assembly plant, circumvent- ing any import penalties in a move that apparently caught Boeing off guard. Analysts say that potentially turns the CSeries from an attack on US jobs, as por- trayed in Boeing’s complaint, to a job creator in a key Republican state, though Boeing termed the move a “questionable deal” between two of its subsidized competitors. The deal also signals the end of Airbus efforts to promote the A319, its smallest jet which has not post- Xi to codify legal clout, anti-graft drive ed a sale in years. “The stunning Airbus-Bombardier partnership for the CSeries program guarantees the China’s Communist Party once shunned the rule of law, ize power in order to exert that power over China’s unruly rule of law reform, political and executive power has been future of the new airplane, kills off the A319 and preferring to rely on what Chairman Mao Zedong called bureaucracy,” said Carl Minzer, a Chinese law expert at legalized so as to erode the possibility of resistance,” said thrusts a big stick up Boeing’s tailpipe,” Leeham Co “rule of man” - essentially using the authority of party Fordham Law School in New York. Fu Hualing, an expert on Chinese law at the University of analyst Scott Hamilton wrote. Strategically, however, leaders to govern. In recent years, though, as China’s Under Xi, the legislature has issued a flurry of new laws Hong Kong. the move extends well beyond the noise of Boeing’s economy modernizes, the party has increasingly been governing issues like Internet controls, espionage and even spat with Bombardier and could trigger a riposte turning to the law to exert central authority over the how to sing the Chinese national anthem. New rules and Role of Key Xi Aide? from other planemakers, including Boeing itself. bureaucracy and keep citizens under control, according to laws are also being used to punish people who oppose the Xi’s anti-corruption campaign will be overseen by a Commercial aerospace has four main powers dom- legal experts and diplomats. And under President Xi party, according to Maya Wang, a Hong Kong-based new National Supervision Commission, which will be given inated by Airbus and Boeing, which share the market Jinping, that trend has been accelerating, they say. legal authority with a law still being drafted. The new above 150 seats. Brazil’s Embraer and Canada’s Emblematic of that drive is a move to enshrine in law body will take over from the Central Commission for Bombardier compete between 100 and 150 seats as Xi’s signature anti-graft campaign, which has ensnared Discipline Inspection (CCDI) and merge multiple anti- well as in the market for smaller regional jets. But nearly 1.4 million party members in the past five years. graft units into a single body, according to an announce- China and Russia lead a field of new entrants vying to The move, announced last year, will be finalized at the ment from the CCDI last year. It will also expand the graft break into the $125 billion a year commercial market, Communist Party Congress that opens today. “Don’t Reforms help campaign’s purview to include employees at state-backed along with smaller regional players such as Japan. underestimate the importance of writing these things institutions. down,” says Jessica Batke, who covered China for the US the leadership The CCDI, justice ministry and the National People’s Boeing-Embraer Alliance? State Department and now writes on China’s leadership Congress, China’s legislature, did not respond to requests Tuesday’s deal starts to rearrange the deck in a for the Hoover Institution. Legal reforms are part of enforce for comment. The extent of the commission’s power is move that many have been expecting since former efforts by the Communist Party under Xi to grant more closely tied to the fate of Wang Qishan, who has overseen Airbus head Louis Gallois warned six years ago that freedoms to ordinary people, while drawing red lines and central control the anti-graft campaign and is expected to stay in a lead- the market was getting too crowded. In particular, it creating harsher punishments for those who cross them, ership role despite being past the customary retirement could drive Boeing closer to Embraer, with which it Batke said. age of 68, sources have told Reuters. already cooperates. Embraer’s E2 jet is one of the Wang’s exact position is likely to be made clear at the main potential losers from the CSeries deal. “The Codifying the Informal congress. One scenario would see him usher in the next world has two top-tier airframers, and two second- Human rights groups often criticize China for only pay- researcher for Human Rights Watch. The justice ministry phase of the graft fight as head of the super-ministry. tier airframers,” said Teal Group analyst Richard ing lip service to the rule of law and say the Communist has taken a tougher line on lawyers taking on rights cases. Wang has said that the new commission should be granted Aboulafia. “Airbus and Bombardier are now allies. Party systematically ignores due process when prosecut- Last year it ordered law firms to “support Party activities,” detention powers by law, raising concerns among rights This greatly increases the likelihood of a stronger ing activists and dissidents. Courts are being pushed by which activists say raises the risks of taking on sensitive activists that practices like the informal detention of sus- Boeing-Embraer alliance as a response.” the Communist Party to be more accessible and fair in the cases for lawyers. pects for questioning could be validated. Rights groups Such a move has long been contemplated in pri- hope that law becomes an effective tool to resolve dis- This month, Zhu Shengwu became the first lawyer to be consider the practice illegal and say that suspects are vate. The CSeries benefits from a new type of effi- putes and stabilize society. But the reforms also help the stripped of his license for online posts critical of the often tortured. Details about the commission are expected cient engine. Its launch in 2008 eventually prompted leadership enforce central control by codifying previously Communist Party under the new measures. His posts had to be announced next year at an annual meeting of the Airbus to put the same generation of engine on its informal restrictions, or campaigns like the anti-corruption mocked the anti-corruption campaign and said the party National People’s Congress, according to diplomats and own A320 to protect its main profit source. That in drive, legal experts say. “What Xi is trying to do is central- was lawlessly administering justice. “Under Xi Jinping’s legal experts. — Reuters turn forced Boeing to dump plans for an all-new sin- gle-aisle plane in 2011 and opt for a makeover of its best-selling 737 with similar engines, to be known as 737 MAX. covered what kind of profession I’m suit- state has continued to fuel growth through an But sitting in Boeing’s filing cabinets are designs A ‘goddess party ed to. This is how my dream has become As Xi ascends, accumulation of debt that, according to the for an all-new jet that would have involved intense more and more clear.” Qi moved from IMF, is on a “dangerous trajectory”. Congress collaboration with Embraer, according to two people secretary’ ponders Wuhan, in central China, to a nearby vil- will economic spokesman Tuo Zhen said yesterday that familiar with the project. A template for closer co- lage to be the assistant to the local party China “will not slow the pace” of reforms, but operation therefore already exists. Boeing and her future in China boss. It was an eye-opening experience, he admitted there were still “tough problems Embraer declined to comment. The two companies with a heavy work load and problems far reforms take off? to solve” such as “systemic obstacles”. already work on projects including runway safety and more complex than she’d imagined. But some analysts are not convinced by alternative jet fuels. Their partnership has intensified In the mid-1980s, as a wave of economic Two years later she moved to Putuan, such public pronouncements. “There has As Chinese President Xi Jinping prepares in recent years to include Boeing’s commitment to reforms swept China, Qi Jing’s parents a rural township further afield, to run the been general disappointment on economic for a second five-year term, foreign joint sales and support of Embraer’s KC-390 military fled the poverty of their farming village local branch of the Communist Youth performance and direction,” said investors will be watching for any sign of aircraft. to seek opportunity in the bustling city League, the organization in charge of Christopher Balding, economics professor his long-promised reforms to further open The Airbus-Bombardier deal also marks a pause in of Wuhan. Her father found a job as a cultivating future party members. “I real- at Peking University in the southern city of up the world’s second-largest economy. Xi strategic advances made by China, widely seen as the glass cutter, and later as a security ly wanted to explore the flashpoints of Shenzhen. “China is significantly more cen- will likely lay out his future economic poli- most serious future competitor to Airbus and Boeing. guard, while her mother took care of humanity. In college it was all theoreti- tralized than it was even five years ago. At cies today, when he opens a five-yearly Debt-laden Bombardier had been in talks with China their home. Thirty years later, in a coun- cal.” The villagers posed complicated this point, it would be very difficult for Communist Party congress that will extend as it waited for Airbus to come around to the CSeries. try transformed, Qi headed in the reverse challenges, but sometimes so did her anyone to make a serious argument that his tenure as general secretary. While he is “China has missed out on a huge opportunity to direction in search of her own future. superiors in the system in which she China is seriously interested in opening up expected to fill top posts with loyalists, advance its aims by not getting the CSeries,” an Soft-spoken and rail thin, Qi grew up worked. She felt she had a more open economically,” he told AFP. analysts are divided as to whether he will industry strategist said. a city girl whose only inkling of the hard- mind, and more creative ideas than some When Xi took office five years ago, his use his increased powers to let the market ship her parents and grandparents knew older officials up the chain of command. premier Li Keqiang was seen as the man in rule or keep the state firmly in charge of Product Strategy came during annual trips back to their Last year, she helped the township charge of shepherding the economy. Li had the economy. The deal also has potentially far-reaching conse- village in Henan province. In college, Qi organize its first lotus flower festival to promised “fair treatment” to foreign firms, a Xi has sought to cast himself as a cham- quences for product strategy and technology at majored in English and grew to love attract tourists. She contacted a photo pion of globalization as the United States larger role for the market and structural Airbus and Boeing. A person close to Bombardier romantic British literature. One of her studio and spent her own money and a retreats behind President Donald Trump’s reforms in favor of the private sector. But favorite books was Jane Austen’s said Airbus would aim to pressure the key Boeing weekend having photos of herself taken “America First” policy. But foreign compa- analysts say the premier has been sidelined 737 MAX 8 model by squeezing it from below with “Emma”. She was attracted by the main in traditional robes, hair extensions flow- nies complain that his words have not been as Xi has further centralized power around the CSeries and from above with the popular character, a woman of strength and indi- ing, among the lotus fields. She posted backed by deeds, as the state retains con- himself. Li “struggled to rally support A321neo. Some critics say it could also develop a viduality. the photos on the messaging app trol over the economy. US and European around his reformist views” and curb state- larger CSeries. But critics say airlines don’t want such She wanted to study sociology in WeChat. Local media picked up the sto- firms report being barred from certain sec- owned enterprises, but he “has clearly not a patchwork of products. The deal clashes with one graduate school, but failed to make it ry, dubbing her the “goddess party sec- tors and forced to share their technologies been a very influential premier”, according of the core philosophies in the Airbus brochure to into the school of her choice. Instead, she retary” - and the pictures went viral. with local competitors. The EU Chamber of to the Economist Intelligence Unit. date - a compatible family of aircraft where pilots and applied for a program to turn fresh grad- But five years into her new life in the Commerce in China summed up the exas- Supported by his economic adviser Liu maintenance staff can be redeployed easily. uates into rural officials. She had been a countryside and approaching the age of peration as “promise fatigue”. He, Xi chairs the commission leading finan- Airbus will also get its hands on promising tech- red-scarf-wearing Young Pioneer as a 30, Qi feels like she’s nearing a cross- Underperforming state-owned enterprises, cial and economic affairs as well as a pow- nology. Workers in Belfast, whose jobs have been at child - like almost all her classmates - roads. She would like to find a boyfriend which have saddled the economy with erful new committee devoted to reforms. In the center of a political storm over the Boeing- and then a member of the Communist and get married, but her attempts to date huge debts and overcapacity exceeding July Xi called for “stronger financial regu- Bombardier dispute, are using innovative wing pro- Youth League in her teens. When a col- rural boys haven’t panned out. A long- domestic demand, have been propped up lation” to contain “systemic financial risks” duction techniques that may now be deployed by lege professor suggested she take the distance relationship with someone in or merged into massive companies. - raising concern among analysts that this Airbus for future jets. That could increase tensions at next step and join the Communist Party it Wuhan, an hour away, doesn’t seem could stifle much-needed reforms. “Xi the World Trade Organisation where Boeing has bat- seemed like the logical thing to do. As practical. “I used to be fairly optimistic, Premier sidelined Jinping has increasingly stressed the tled with Airbus for years over government loans. did going to work for the party. but now I’m neutral,” she said. “At a cer- Private firms, meanwhile, are being sub- importance of ‘stability’ on all fronts,” Bombardier received such UK funding in Belfast, “I’ve all along been in touch with what tain age, one’s opportunities get fewer jected to closer control by the Communist Louis Kuijs of Oxford Economics said in a meaning recent trade friction may shift to the larger my advantages are, where my abilities and fewer, especially for women when it Party, via cells it deploys inside companies. note. “Bold, potentially disruptive econom- stage at the WTO. — Reuters lie,” she said. “And in going through cer- comes to your work and family choices. While the government is seeking to turn ic reform and forceful deleveraging are not tain experiences,” she added, “I’ve dis- You must face them all.” — Reuters toward a consumption-based economy, the consistent with stability.” —AFP Established 1961 11 News Wednesday, October 18, 2017

last travel ban in March. In his ruling yesterday, Watson North Africa is costing the region an estimated $575 US judge blocks said Hawaii is likely to succeed in proving that Trump’s Lack of women in billion a year, the OECD said this month. Such barriers latest travel ban violates federal immigration law. include needing a guardian to travel as in Saudi Arabia The policy “suffers from precisely the same maladies or laws requiring permission from husbands or fathers latest Trump as its predecessor: it lacks sufficient findings that the Mideast workforce to work, common in Egypt, Jordan and Libya. A recent entry of more than 150 million nationals from six speci- survey of attitudes in the region, by the UN Women travel restrictions fied countries would be ‘detrimental to the interests of hindering growth agency and Promundo found more than two thirds of the United States’,” Watson wrote. The Justice respondents believed a woman’s primary role should be SAN FRANCISCO: A US judge yesterday blocked Department did not immediately respond to a request caring for the household, while at least half the women President Donald Trump’s latest bid to impose restric- for comment. Trump had promised as a candidate “a LONDON: Women in the Middle East now outnum- surveyed also saw this as their most important duty. tions on citizens from eight countries entering the United total and complete shutdown of Muslims entering the ber men in universities but this isn’t translating into States, which had been set to take effect this week. The United States.” jobs - curbing the benefits of the “demographic divi- Children as Status Symbols open-ended ban, announced last month, targeted people In announcing the newest travel restrictions, the dend” that fuels economic growth. Almost all girls in Better investment in contraception and sexual health from Iran, Libya, Syria, Yemen, Somalia, Chad and North White House had portrayed them as necessary conse- the Middle East and North Africa now attend school, care and equality for women in the workplace could Korea, as well as certain government officials from quences for countries that did not meet new require- and more women than men go to university, accord- encourage more women into the workforce, according Venezuela. It was the latest version of a policy that had ments for vetting of immigrants and issuing of visas. ing to the World Bank, but women’s participation in to the UNFPA report. “Poorer countries with large or previously targeted six Muslim-majority countries but Those requirements were shared in July with foreign the workforce stubbornly remains among the lowest emerging youth populations that reduce gaps in sexual had been restricted by the US Supreme Court. governments, which had 50 days to make improve- in the world. and reproductive health care and promote gender The state of Hawaii sued in federal court in Honolulu ments if needed, the White House said. A number of The demographic dividend refers to an acceleration equality also have the potential to reap and maximize a to block Trump’s latest policy, arguing that federal countries made improvements by enhancing the securi- of economic growth as the working-age population demographic dividend,” the report found. immigration law did not give him the authority to ty of travel documents or the reporting of passports expands relative to the In parts of the Middle impose the restrictions. US District Judge Derrick that were lost or stolen. Others did not, sparking the non-working-age. But East, change is already Watson in Honolulu had previously blocked Trump’s restrictions. — Reuters without enough happening. “Gender rela- women, its impact will More women tions are changing,” be muted in the Middle Bessma Momani, a non- East, experts say. “The than men go resident fellow at demographic dividend Brookings Doha Center is not going to be as to university think tank, told the good as in Asia,” said in Mideast Thomson Reuters Tiziana Leone, assis- Foundation. “Children as tant professor in status symbols has defi- demography at the nitely gone down ...it London School of used to be if you had 10, Economics. “If they 12 children that was your want the benefit of it then you need more gender parity.” status symbol as a woman, now education and careers Lack of access to contraception is a hurdle keeping have become the new status symbols.” women from the workforce, according to a report by The types of jobs women do must also change, the United Nations’ Population Fund (UNFPA) experts say. In the Middle East and North Africa only released yesterday. Poorly educated women in rural 17 percent of women have jobs in the non-agricultural areas especially lack the means to plan when and how sector such as engineering and finance, according to often they fall pregnant. Barely a quarter of women in the World Bank, while the region has the lowest pro- the region are in employment, but with sharp varia- portion of female entrepreneurs in the world. tions. Rates of women’s employment are lower in con- Overcoming these obstacles and tackling underlying flict-hit places such Yemen, Gaza and Iraq compared gender inequality are crucial to progress, the UNFPA to the Gulf states and Iran. report found. “Without a greater and equitable The legal and social barriers hampering women’s engagement of women, the demographic dividend will access to jobs and careers in the Middle East and remain an elusive objective,” it said. — Reuters

Colonel Ryan Dillon added in a tweet, using an alter- Islamic State loses nate acronym for the group. “We’ve devastated their networks and eliminated leaders at all levels.” The emblematic Syria... breakthrough in the Raqqa operation, which was MARAWI: Philippine soldiers walk past destroyed buildings in the Bangolo district after President launched on June 6, came after a deal was struck allow- ing the evacuation in recent days of civilians who had Rodrigo Duterte declared Marawi City ìliberatedî yesterday. — AFP Continued from Page 1 been held as human shields. Under the deal, a total of 275 Syrian IS fighters and relatives also surrendered to “I can’t describe my happiness,” the 44-year-old the SDF, though it was unclear whether they would be been tipped to take over IS in the region following told AFP in the town of Kobane, 100 km north of given safe passage elsewhere. Duterte declares Hapilon’s death. The military said he was among six to Raqqa. “When my sister told me it had been freed, she The battle for the city was fierce, with the Syrian eight foreign fighters in a battle zone comprising about started to cry, and then I started to cry. Thank God, Observatory for Human Rights monitor saying Tuesday 60 to 80 buildings. “Mahmud remains... one of our thank God.” Marawi liberated... high-value targets in the operations being conducted,” at least 3,250 people had been killed, including 1,130 The SDF broke into Raqqa in June, after months of said military spokesman Major-General Restituto civilians, with hundreds more still missing. Its capture fighting to surround the city, and on Tuesday flushed Padilla. He said the military believed Mahmud was in leaves the group with little more than a “dwarf territo- Continued from Page 1 the last few hundred IS fighters from their remaining Marawi, but it could not be certain. He said Mahmud ry” in neighboring Deir Ezzor province, said Nicholas positions in the main hospital and the municipal stadi- was no threat. “Dr Mahmud is an academic, he’s not a Heras, a fellow at the Centre for a New American Troops persisted in efforts to rescue about 20 um. “Everything is finished in Raqqa, our forces have fighter,” Padilla said. “We don’t feel he is a problem.” Security think tank. “IS will be mainly boxed into a strip hostages, Colonel Romeo Brawner, deputy commander taken full control of Raqqa,” the alliance’s spokesman Terrorism expert Ahmad Kumar Ramakrishna from of territory running along the Middle Euphrates River of the task force battling the militants, told AFP. Asked Talal Sello told AFP. He said the SDF was combing the Singapore’s S Rajaratnam School of International Valley in the province of Deir Ezzor,” he told AFP. “This by reporters if Duterte’s declaration was symbolic, city for any remaining militants who had not surren- Studies said if Mahmud survived he would likely take will be the center of gravity for IS in Syria.” Brawner said: “Yes, because we cannot really say that dered or been killed. “The military operations in Raqqa (the area) is 100 percent cleared.” over the leadership of IS-linked fighters in the southern The militants face two separate assaults in the have finished, but there are clearing operations now Pro-IS gunmen occupied parts of Marawi, the main Philippines. The militant is reported to be a university province, which neighbors Iraq, including a campaign under way to uncover any sleeper cells there might be Islamic city in the predominantly Catholic Philippines, lecturer in his home country who was in charge of rais- by the SDF. A Russian-backed Syrian regime campaign and remove mines,” he said. on May 23 following a foiled attempt by security forces ing finances from abroad for the militants and recruit- has separately retaken swathes of territory in the The announcement came just days after the SDF to arrest Hapilon. Insurgents endured a relentless US- ment. The restive south of the Philippines is home to province, further reducing a “caliphate” that three launched the final phase of its operation to retake the backed bombing campaign and intense ground battles extremist gangs which have declared allegiance to IS, years ago was roughly the size of Britain. The Britain- city. There had been fears that the force, backed by the with troops in the nation’s longest urban conflict since including notorious kidnap-for-ransom group Abu based Observatory said regime forces had brought the US-led coalition battling IS in Syria and Iraq, could get World War II. The military said Monday that Hapilon - Sayyaf and the Maute group. entire area between Deir Ezzor city and Mayadeen, bogged down in a protracted battle for the last 10 per- who figured on the US “most wanted terrorists” list - Yesterday the military warned against retaliatory which was retaken on Saturday, under their control fol- cent of the city. But yesterday they captured the hospi- was killed in a dawn offensive alongside Omarkhayam attacks from sympathizers of the militants. The United lowing a major military offensive. tal and stadium in quick succession, effectively ending Maute, one of two brothers who allied with Hapilon to States, a longtime defense ally of the Philippines, “These are not desert areas, they are villages along IS’ more than three-year presence in the city. Sello said plot the takeover of the city. Duterte had said Hapilon vowed yesterday to support the military’s final push the Euphrates that were IS strongholds,” the monitor an official statement announcing “the liberation of the led an IS bid to establish a Southeast Asian caliphate as in Marawi. “The US Government will continue to said. “The Islamic State group is collapsing under city” would be made soon. the militants suffer battlefield defeats in Iraq and Syria. work with the Armed Forces of the Philippines in the pressure from the regime in Deir Ezzor province,” it The US-led coalition backing the operation made no Streets in Marawi were littered with machine gun final phases of this operation, and looks forward to said. IS also controls territory in neighboring regions statement on the city’s capture, but announced that IS bullet casings and rubble, including a van and twisted cooperating in assuring the stabilization and rehabili- on the Iraqi side of the border, where the militants are had lost 87 percent of the territory it seized in 2014. roofing sheets piled up on sidewalks. Troops were tation of Marawi,” US embassy press attache Molly facing another US-backed offensive by Iraqi pro-gov- “ISIS is losing in every way,” coalition spokesman hunting a Malaysian militant, Mahmud Ahmad, who has Koscina said. — Agencies ernment forces. — AFP

13 Established 1961

Sports Wednesday, October 18, 2017

Leicester sack manager Middlesex appeal dismissed Biles chooses new Craig Shakespeare for slow over rates coach for comeback LONDON: Leicester City sacked Craig Shakespeare yesterday, just four months LONDON: Middlesex failed yesterday in their appeal against a two- LOS ANGELES: Olympic gymnastics queen Simone Biles has appointed a after handing him a permanent contract to manage the former Premier League point penalty for slow over rates, which means they will be relegated new coach as she begins her comeback to the sport after a year-long break, champions, British media reported. Shakespeare, 53, was promoted from his role just a year after winning the county championship. The club, who play US media reported yesterday. Biles, the reigning all-around as assistant coach on an interim basis following the shock dismissal of Claudio at Lord’s, were docked the points during their match against Surrey in Olympic champion and 10-time World Championship gold Ranieri in February and in June he was handed a three-year contract. But the August-a game that was abandoned when a crossbow bolt was fired medallist, has hired France’s Laurent Landi as she begins her 2015-16 champions have struggled this season and are third from bottom of the into The Oval. They were subsequently relegated by a single point after journey towards the 2020 Tokyo Games. The 20-year-old super- table with a single league win. Monday night’s 1-1 home draw with West Brom losing their final match of the season to Somerset. The Cricket star took a sabbatical from gymnastics following her perform- saw Leicester’s winless Premier League run reach six matches-the same Discipline Commission, which operates at arm’s length from the England ances at the Rio de Janeiro games last year, where she won four as when Ranieri was sacked. Shakespeare’s appointment earlier this and Wales Cricket Board, said it had upheld the points deduction, with gold medals and a bronze. The change of coach comes after for- year sparked a striking upturn in form that saw Leicester secure their chairman Tim O’Gorman adding that the rules are clear. “I do not accept mer mentor Aimee Boorman, who worked with Biles for more Premier League status and reach the quarter-finals of the Champions that Middlesex only agreed to the abandonment of the match on condi- than a decade, relocated to Florida from Houston. Biles said she League. Reacting to Tuesday’s development, former Leicester and tion that their slow over rate in the first innings would be overlooked,” was drawn to Landi through his work with USA team- England player Gary Lineker tweeted: “Was always a miracle, but it’s he said. “It is not within the power or gift of either the umpires or the mate Madison Kocian, who won a silver medal on the even more remarkable really that Leicester won the league given players to make deals like that. The match was abandoned for safety uneven bars in Rio. The uneven bars was the only event the ineptitude of those that run the club.” —AFP reasons. Play ended accordingly and the points earned or deducted in which Biles failed to reach the final in Brazil. — AFP should stand with effect from that time.” — AFP Zain celebrates national jet ski team world champions Company main sponsor of the team for 7th consecutive year

Zain’s team welcoming the champions at Kuwait Airport.

KUWAIT: Zain, the leading telecommunications com- sponsors and supporting organizations attended. The team also landed a number of titles from the to put Kuwaiti National teams and individual athletes pany in Kuwait, welcomed Kuwait’s national jet ski The company expressed its keenness on encourag- highest competitive categories including the Pro Open at the forefront of its priorities and pledges to con- team champions at Kuwait Airport after the team ing Kuwaiti athletes to represent Kuwait in interna- and Expert categories. Zain confirms its commitment tinue motivating them to achieve all the recognition achieved an unprecedented achievement of 13 titles tionally renowned championships, and that its spon- towards Kuwaiti champions, which resembles the com- they deserve. during their participation in the recently concluded sorship of the team for seventh consecutive year pany’s endless confidence of the competencies of these It is worth noting that the national jet ski team is World Jet Ski Championship held in the United States. falls under its strategy towards supporting the youth young athletes and their capabilities in excelling in dif- authorized by the Kuwait Sea Sport Club to officially The company is the main sponsor of the team for the and sports sectors. ferent fields. represent the country in regional and international seventh consecutive year. The company expressed its pride in the latest As a leading telecommunications company, Zain is jet ski championships. The team champions won a Zain participated in the reception ceremony held achievements the team accomplished, including 3 gold constantly looking to identify and support excellence number of prominent titles during past and present at Kuwait Airport’s Honoring Hall, where the team’s medals, 4 silver medals, and 6 bronze medals. across the sports sector. The company will continue participations.

Kucherov scores twice, Lightning beat Red Wings

DETROIT: Nikita Kucherov is in the beating Howard. Kucherov scored on a middle of one of those stretches when power play 101 seconds later with a the puck seems to do whatever he wants. wrist shot from the right circle. The dynamic forward scored twice “They play really tight and there’s not Monday night to lift the Tampa Bay much space on the ice,” Kucherov said. Lightning to a 3-2 victory over the “You have to kind of grind this out and Detroit Red Wings. Kucherov barely play the right way. ... Sometimes just wait touched the puck on the decisive goal, for mistakes.” but he did enough to deflect it past Abdelkader’s goal came after some Jimmy Howard with 18:13 remaining in extensive deliberation by the officials. He the third period, and Tampa Bay held on was hooked from behind by Victor for its fourth straight victory. Hedman on a breakaway, but he was able Kucherov had exactly one goal in to get a shot off. Andrei Vasilevskiy each of Tampa Bay’s first five games this made the save, and Abdelkader went season. After adding two more Monday, sliding into him. Detroit’s Darren Helm, bronze, whilst Rashed Al Rashed nabbed one he is second in the league in goals, two who was trailing the play, put the silver and one bronze. Finally, Mohammed behind Washington’s Alex Ovechkin. rebound into the net. Jassem Al Baz won two bronze medals, whilst “Special player,” Lightning coach Jon After a review, officials took the goal McDonald’s proud sponsor of teammate Salem Al Mutawa added one bronze Cooper said. “He didn’t show up to away, ruling Abdelkader had interfered of his own. Tampa in September. He showed up in with the goalie and Hedman was guilty Kuwait national jet ski team “Sports has always been a cornerstone of the July. He was on the ice four or five times of a hooking penalty. After additional McDonald’s culture and philosophy, and we at a week just working on his game, and discussion, Abdelkader was given a McDonald’s Kuwait have always striven to play we’re reaping the benefits of that.” penalty shot, which he converted . He KUWAIT: In line with its core philosophy of scored a historic victory, becoming the first an active role in supporting the local sports Tyler Johnson also scored for the was the first Detroit player to score on a supporting the local sports culture and encour- Arab athlete to win the gold medal in the Pro scene,” said Al-Kilani. “Our sponsorship of the Lightning, who are now atop the NHL penalty shot since Valtteri Filppula on aging young athletic talents, McDonald’s Kuwait Open category. Designated for the most jet ski team came as a result of our resounding standings with 10 points. Justin Dec. 15, 2007. announced its sponsorship of the Kuwait advanced pro athletes, the category is consid- belief in the limitless potential of these young Abdelkader and Mike Green scored in Green’s tying goal was set up by national jet ski team, who recently competed in ered to be one of the most challenging in the athletic talents. We are also firm believers in the the second period to help Detroit erase a Tomas Tatar, who started a rush with the World Jet Ski Championship which was held sport. In addition to achieving a regional first, need to offer all possible moral and financial 2-0 deficit, but Kucherov broke the tie some impressive stickhandling in his own in Arizona in the United States. Burabea also broke his own personal record, support to Kuwait’s up-and-coming athletes, so early in the third. zone, and then eventually passed to Luai Al-Kilani, Vice President of McDonald’s earning his 21st gold medal in the span of 11 that they can continue to shine and excel on a Kucherov reached out with one hand Green, who followed his own shot and Kuwait, congratulated the national champions consecutive years. regional and global level.” on his stick and barely got a piece of a scored on the rebound. “I thought we on their stellar performance throughout the In total, the national team nabbed 13 medals - Al-Kilani concluded by saying: “We wish loose puck in front of the net. It slid were the better team 5 on 5, I thought competition, as they successfully bolstered their three gold, four silver and six bronze. In addition these young champions all the best in their slowly under Howard and in. Johnson we had more scoring chances,” Red already impressive roster of international to Burabea’s gold, Abdulrahman Ghazi Al Omar upcoming competitions. I, for one, am confi- opened the scoring with a short-handed Wings coach Jeff Blashill said. “In the achievements with a string of new victories. won two gold medals of his own, while his team- dent that they will continue to make as all goal in the first period, collecting the end, the difference was specialty teams. The team’s star athlete and renowned inter- mate Walid Al Adsani won two silver. Abdullah proud, topping the rankings and setting new puck near his own blue line and outskat- They scored two on specialty teams and national jet ski champion, Mohammed Burabea, Al Ghanim won three medals, one silver and two records in the sport.” ing Trevor Daley the other way before we scored zero.” — AP 14 Established 1961

Sports Wednesday, October 18, 2017 History boys Italy draw Sweden in tricky World Cup playoff

N Ireland will tackle Switzerland and Croatia to play Greece

PARIS: Four-time winners Italy will play Sweden in a UPHILL TASK FOR NIRELAND playoff for a place in the 2018 World Cup while the Northern Ireland coach Michael O’Neill admitted Republic of Ireland take on Denmark, following the he faced an uphill task against the Swiss as he bids draw yesterday. to steer his country to the finals for the first time Northern Ireland will tackle Switzerland and Croatia since 1986. and Greece will contest the other two-legged Europe The Northern Irish will play at home in the first leg. zone playoffs to be played between November 9 and “Switzerland had a great campaign though their group November 14. Veteran goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon’s was one of the easiest. Our job is to make their life as Italy, who were seeded for the draw in Zurich, will travel difficult as possible,” he said. “Having played Germany to Sweden for the first twice in the group it will leg of their tie as they set us up nicely for the seek a ticket to Russia. match,” O’Neill said. Gabriele Oriali, the “Our aim is to take a Italy team manager who lead to Switzerland and attended the draw in ‘We are Italy and we had seven clean place of coach Gian sheets in our qualifiers Piero Ventura, said: “I we shouldn’t be so we need a tight five think it could have been when we go there.” The better. But we accept afraid of anyone’ Republic of Ireland need this draw. We are Italy to keep up the form they and we shouldn’t be showed at the end of afraid of anyone. qualifying when they “Sweden are a very eliminated Wales to strong team, who quali- reach the playoffs, their fied in a difficult group. They beat France and eliminat- coach Martin O’Neill said. ed the Netherlands. “We have optimism and history (on They have the advantage of hosting Denmark in the our side). Imagine a World Cup without Italy.” second leg. “We have momentum and that’s important,” The Italians were condemned to the playoffs after O’Neill said. “We won the last two games to get here. finishing runners-up to Spain in their qualifying group, I’m now concerned with the next couple of weeks and but they have not missed a World Cup finals since 1958. making sure my players don’t get injuries at club level.” Sweden coach Janne Andersson said he expected “two Croatia will host surprise Euro 2004 winners Greece tough games”. “But it would have been the same with in the first leg of their playoff. Croatia’s coach Zlatko other countries. I’m happy we know now. Now we can Dalic said the tie would be “a difficult job”, but added: ZURICH: Spanish retired footballer Fernando Hierro performs the FIFA football World Cup 2018 European start work,” he told Sky Sports News. “I’m optimistic.”—AFP play-off draw, yesterday in Zurich. — AFP

Heynckes came out of retirement to return as head last 12 Champions League matches. coach until the end of the season. After four years away from football, Celtic’s visit to Allianz Arena is MARTINEZ OUT Heynckes’ first real test as Bayern look to show a reac- He scored in Saturday’s 5-0 thrashing of Freiburg in Heynckes back as tion from their thrashing in Paris. “‘Reparation’ is a the Bundesliga. The victory was Heynckes’ first match word often used when you have lost a game in the back in charge and left Bayern second in Germany’s IOC casts net for group phases,” said Heynckes when asked if Bayern top competition. However Bayern have just three Bayern regroup want to atone for the loss. “I think we simply must points from their first two Champions League games Winter Games hosts have the ambition to reach the next round. “The team and need a home win to get them back on track in for Celtic is highly motivated and looked good in training, but we Group B. “We’re always under pressure here, but know Celtic are a strong and aggressive team.” The tomorrow is especially important for us,” said Bayern in ‘troubled times’ veteran head coach insisted the Germans will not defender Jerome Boateng. “After a defeat in the underestimate Celtic. “You can always make the mis- Champions League, we want to answer with a win.” MUNICH: Bayern Munich are looking to regroup in take of underestimating a team, but Celtic has been Bayern’s defensive midfielder Javi Martinez has LAUSANNE: The International Olympic Committee the Champions League at home to Celtic today as (Scottish) champions six times in a row,” added been ruled out after suffering a shoulder injury in the finds itself battling the weight of public pressure in Jupp Heynckes coaches his first European game since Heynckes. “They twice held Borussia Freiburg win. “I am not a fan of playing players who potential host cities as it casts its net to find suitable winning the 2013 final. The 72-year-old steered Moenchengladbach and Manchester City to a draw are injured and have agreed with the doctor that he candidates for the Winter Games amid concerns over Bayern to the Champions League title four years ago last season which shows they are competitive.” (Martinez) will miss the next two games,” said costs and the merits of hosting multi-sport events. Next by beating Borussia Dortmund at Wembley to com- Bayern’s hot-shot striker Robert Lewandowski Heynckes. Alongside Martinez, long-term injury vic- year’s Winter Olympics will be held in Pyeongchang, plete the treble of European, Bundesliga and German is in rich form with six goals in five matches at tims Manuel Neuer, Franck Ribery and Juan Bernat will South Korea, while Beijing hosts in 2022. The official Cup titles in the 2012/13 season. However, after Carlo Allianz Arena so far this season. The Polish star is also miss Wednesday’s game. However, Heynckes said bidding process for 2026 starts next year with the IOC Bayern’s most successful foreign goalscorer, with midfielder Arturo Vidal could feature despite a leg due to make a decision in Milan in autumn 2019. Ancelotti was sacked in the wake of Bayern’s 3-0 ham- But the IOC were dealt a hammer blow at the week- mering at Paris Saint-Germain three weeks ago, a total of 24 goals, and has scored 10 times in his knock. — AFP end when the Austrian state of Tyrol voted against Innsbruck’s bid for 2026, citing concerns over the high financial cost and environmental impact. That begs the question of how many bid cities will be unveiling their projects in 2019. There were just two in 2015, with Beijing beating the Kazakh city of Almaty for the right to host in 2022. Pyeongchang held off bids from Mahrez rescues Munich and Annecy. While several bid cities (Hamburg, Boston, Rome, Budapest) pulled out of attempting to point for Leicester win hosting rights to the 2024 Summer Olympics, attributed to Paris with Los Angeles to host in 2028, Innsbruck’s withdrawal is a timely reminder that finding in 1-1 draw with suitable cities is not a given. The result of the referendum in Tyrol, with more than 53 percent of the population voting against, was West Brom “a setback but overall it’s not disastrous”, argued Jon Tibbs, head of the JTA agency and communications adviser to the LA bid for the 2024-28 Summer Games. “It was a mistake to have this Tyrol referendum so LEICESTER CITY: Riyad Mahrez rescued a point for early. The referendum created more questions than Leicester City who came from behind to draw 1-1 with answers. They were not in a rush, they should have West Bromwich Albion in the Premier League on explained more before having this referendum.” The Monday, as both teams’ search for a first league win in IOC said it would have liked to continue its preliminary almost two months continued. talks with Innsbruck, sharing “the disappointment for The Algerian cancelled out Nacer Chadli’s stunning the Austrian Olympic Committee, the many supporting free kick with his first league goal of the season to athletes and the promoters of the project who worked make sure the points were shared at the King Power on it with so much energy and committment”. Stadium. Each side’s last Premier League win came in NASVILLE: Tennessee Titans inside linebacker Wesley Woodyard (59) knocks Indianapolis Colts quarter- IOC LOOKS WIDE AND FAR August and so both were looking to kick start their back Jacoby Brissett (7) out of bounds to stop a Colts’ drive late in the fourth quarter of an NFL football Fresh talks with interested cities from North season after the international break. The first half game Monday, in Nashville, Tenn.—AP America, Asia and Europe will now go ahead, an IOC passed by largely without incident, with only Danny spokesperson said, with meetings already held with Simpson drawing a good save from West Brom’s Boaz representatives from the Swiss city of Sion, Calgary in Myhill, who was featuring in his first league game Canada and Stockholm. since April 2016. To these three cities should be added an American The second period started more energetically, with Mariota returns to help Titans beat Colts venue, the US Olympic Committee confirming Friday it Jamie Vardy being awarded a foul after colliding at full would be “interested” in hosting, though unsure of speed just outside the area with the on-rushing Myhill. TENESSEE: The Tennessee Titans ended an 11-game los- 48- and 23-yard field goals, giving him five for the night. whether for 2026 or 2030. Denver, Reno-Tahoe and It was the visitors who broke the deadlock, however, ing streak to the Indianapolis Colts on Monday night with The Titans finally found the end zone with 10:01 left in the Salt Lake City, host of the 2002 Winter Olympics-the a big pass and a big defensive play. Marcus Mariota’s game on a 3-yard run by DeMarco Murray, capping a 15- last organised by the US-are interested, while Japan’s with Belgian Chadli, in his first league start of the sea- tiebreaking 53-yard touchdown strike to rookie Taywan play, 87-yard drive. The Colts’ Adam Vinatieri converted a 1972 hosts Sapporo and Almaty could also join the run- son, curling in a stunning free kick 25 metres out short- Taylor with 5:29 left in the game, coupled with Wesley 52-yard field goal with 7:27 left to even the score at 22, ning. Hopes of the 2026 Games going to Switzerland ly after the hour mark. Woodyard’s stop of quarterback Jacoby Brissett on fourth but all that did was tee up Tennessee’s streak-breaking are also up in the air, with Sion at the mercy of a public The hosts rallied and were rewarded for their efforts down with 2:19 remaining, gave Tennessee a 36-22 victory sequence. Brissett hit on 21 of 37 passes for 212 yards and referendum complicated by that country’s federal sys- as the clock ticked down. Mahrez, who was guilty of at Nissan Stadium. Mariota, who missed the Titans’ 16-10 a touchdown. tem of governance. “We noted the decision made by missing a sitter earlier in the second half, showed defeat at Miami the previous week with a hamstring injury, Tennessee opened the scoring 3:45 into the game with the Tyrol public, which shows how it is so important to exquisite control to grab the equaliser with 10 minutes completed 23 of 32 passes for 306 yards as the Titans (3- Succop’s 48-yard field goal. It was his 47th consecutive communicate as widely as possible,” Sion bid president remaining. 3) moved into a three-way tie with Houston and conversion from 50 yards or closer, an NFL record that he Jean-Philippe Rochat told AFP. The Algerian received a headed ball from compatriot Jacksonville for first place in the AFC South. increased to 51 by game’s end. “Public voting is envisaged when all costs and their Islam Slimani and controlled it with his chest before hit- Woodyard helped seal the victory by running Brissett Indianapolis got a 36-yard field goal from Vinatieri to distribution are known. Our timing and approach are ting it on the half-volley. Leicester could not find out of bounds just shy of the first down on fourth-and-1 at even the score, but Succop hit from 32 with 47 seconds slightly different (from Innsbruck).” Rochat, a former another breakthrough and Tony Pulis’s men held on for the Tennessee 13. A replay review confirmed the ruling, left in the first quarter for a 6-3 lead. The Colts took the vice-president of the Swiss ski federation, said he was a draw, which meant that the 2016 champions remained and the Titans iced it with a 72-yard touchdown run from lead with 10:54 left in the half as Brissett flipped an 8-yard “convinced that when all the margins of costs are in 18th place, with six points from eight games. West Derrick Henry with 47 seconds left. It was their first victo- touchdown pass to tight end Jack Doyle. The Titans known and communicated”, the population will realise Brom moved up one position to 10th. ry over Indianapolis since October 30, 2011. responded with Succop’s third field goal, a 40-yarder at that “Sion proposes a really new approach, completely “We’re disappointed,” Pulis told Sky Sports. “It’s a Henry finished with 131 yards on 19 carries. The Colts the 4:10 mark, to slice their deficit to 10-9. realistic and transparent, which will allow the entire very, very tough league. Every team you play, if you (2-4) took a 19-9 lead 70 seconds into the third quarter Indianapolis answered with a 25-yard field goal from region to benefit from a positive legacy from the take the top six out of it, from them downwards there’s when John Simon returned an interception 26 yards for a Vinatieri 14 seconds before halftime, enabling the Colts to Olympics”.—AFP not a lot between them.” —Reuters touchdown. Ryan Succop drew Tennessee within 19-15 on take a four-point lead to the locker room. — Reuters Established 1961 15

Sports Wednesday, October 18, 2017 Rampant Reds hit seven to silence Jurgen Klopp critics

Salah made it three with his seventh goal of the season

MARIBOR: Liverpool eased the pressure on Jurgen relieved Liverpool looked more potent, although it helped Klopp as Roberto Firmino and Mohamed Salah inspired that Maribor were totally out of their depth. Klopp’s side a 7-0 thrashing of Maribor in the Champions League quickly punished Maribor’s naive defending to take a yesterday. fourth minute lead. After drawing their first two European fixtures and Salah was left in acres of space down the right edge of spluttering in the Premier League, Liverpool arrived in the Maribor penalty area and the Egypt winger’s low Slovenia with critics questioning Klopp’s signings and tac- cross into the six yard box teed up Firmino to tap-in his tics. But, for once, Klopp’s team showed a ruthless touch in fifth goal of the season. the opposition penalty area to demolish woeful Maribor. Firmino opened the scoring and Philippe Coutinho RUNNING RIOT increased Liverpool’s lead before Salah’s brace put the Liverpool were running riot and Coutinho doubled Reds four up by half-time at Stadion Ljudski Vrt. Firmino their advantage in the 13th minute. Salah sent James netted again after the break, with Alex Oxlade- Milner away down the right flank and he pulled a cross Chamberlain and Trent back to the edge of the Alexander-Arnold also on Maribor area, where the scoresheet as Coutinho arrived to slot Liverpool’s goal blitz home his fifth goal of the moved them into first This was a season. place in Group E with Firmino went close three matches left. After welcome tonic with a flicked shot at the only one victory in their end of a flowing move, but last eight games in all for Klopp for once applying the fin- competitions, this was a ishing touch wasn’t a welcome tonic for Klopp problem for Klopp’s men. and company as they Salah made it three with ended a three-match his seventh goal of the winless run. Now Klopp season in the 19th minute. must hope the dominant display marks a much-needed Firmino was the creator, riding two tackles and slipping change in his side’s fortunes. a deft pass to Salah, who guided a cool finish past Saturday’s goalless draw against Manchester United Maribor goalkeeper Jasmin Handanovic. Maribor were in had continued Liverpool’s frustrating recent trend of fail- complete disarray and Salah notched Liverpool’s fourth MARIBOR: Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah, top, duels for the ball with Maribor’s Marko Suler during ing to kill off their opponents despite controlling posses- from virtually on the goalline after Alberto Moreno’s cross the Champions League soccer match between Maribor and Liverpool at the Ljudski vrt stadium, in sion. unhinged the hapless hosts in the 39th minute. Maribor, Slovenia, yesterday. — AP Liverpool’s profligacy sparked criticism of Klopp’s fail- It was only the seventh time an English club had scored ure to buy a top-class striker and, irritated by questions four first half goals in the Champions League. Liverpool about his trophyless two-year reign, he sarcastically weren’t finished yet and the Brazil connection combined Oxlade-Chamberlain, on as a substitute, grabbed his first Handanovic. Klopp was all smiles on the touchline and labelled himself a “charismatic, funny loser” earlier this for their fifth when Firmino rose to head in Coutinho’s 54th Liverpool goal since his August move from Arsenal. Daniel there was still time for teenage defender Alexander- week. minute free-kick. Sturridge’s pass sent Oxlade-Chamberlain clear in the Arnold to net in stoppage-time with a deflected long- Aware the heat was being turned up, Klopp will be Capping a night when everything when right for Klopp, 86th minute and he calmly stroked his shot past range effort. — AFP

Leipzig claim landmark Champions Bernard brace League success leads Shakhtar over Feyenoord 2-1 in CL LEIPZIG: Jean-Kevin Augustin scored what proved to be the winner as RB Leipzig secured their first ever vic- tory in the Champions League yesterday evening, beat- ROTTERDAM: Bernard scored twice in leading ing Porto 3-2. Willi Orban and Emil Forsberg also scored 10-man Shakhtar Donetsk past Feyenoord 2-1 and for the hosts in a five-goal first half as Leipzig claimed a solidifying the Ukrainian team’s grip on second win that keeps alive their dream of reaching the knock- place in Group F of the Champions League yes- out stages in their debut Champions League campaign. terday. The result puts Leipzig second in Group G, a point Shakhtar’s second group stage win left above Porto but five points behind Turkish champions Feyenoord without a point following three straight Besiktas, who maintained their perfect record with a 2-1 win at Monaco. Leipzig were without star striker Timo defeats. Manchester City stayed on top after beat- Werner for much of the game. The 21-year-old is yet to ing Napoli 2-1. Bernard netted in the 24th and 54th return to full match fitness after injury so only came on minutes to cancel out a seventh-minute strike by as a late substitute, but his team were still brilliant going Steven Berghuis. forward. It took just eight minutes for Leipzig to open Feyenoord started strongly at a sold-out De the scoring. After Jose Sa preferred in the Porto goal to Kuip Stadium and Berghuis gave his team a Iker Casillas-fumbled Bruma’s long-range effort, the ball deserved lead when he headed home a rebound fell to Orban, who bundled it into the net from close after Andriy Pyatov parried Jean-Paul Boetius’ range. More chances followed as Augustin first sliced a swerving shot. ball wide and then danced around two Porto defenders But Feyenoord eased off after scoring, allowing before being denied by Sa. Shakhtar into the match. Bernard equalized in the For all their flair in attack, defensive nerves soon cost 24th after running onto a perfectly weighted pass Leipzig the equaliser. A long throw, twice knocked on in by midfielder Fred and rounding goalkeeper Brad the penalty area, was turned in at the far post by Jones before calmly slotting the ball into the empty Vincent Aboubakar on 18 minutes. The response was LEIPZIG: Porto’s Ivan Marcano, center, scores his side’s second goal during the Champions League net. Feyenoord again started strongly in the second immediate from the home side. Marcel Sabitzer, Naby Group G first leg soccer match between RB Leipzig and FC Porto in Leipzig, Germany. — AP half and Pyatov twice had to sprint off his line to Keita and Forsberg all came close within minutes of the deny Nicolai Jorgensen and Sofyan Amrabat. But leveller and it was the latter who would make it 2-1 in while Feyenoord couldn’t capitalize on its chances, the 38th minute. The Swede linked up brilliantly with time. The Leipzig defence was caught napping again at chance in the 73rd minute, choosing to fire the ball over Shakhtar was clinical, with Bernard appearing Sabitzer before slotting the ball past Sa. a corner, allowing Hector Herrera to head the ball back the bar rather than pass to the unmarked Sabitzer. unmarked at the far post to give his team the lead Moments later, Augustin had increased the lead, Ivan at the far post before Marcano prodded the ball in. Brought on with a quarter of an hour to play, Werner with a powerful header. Marcano’s error gifting him possession and a free run at With an hour gone, Marcano would redeem himself was given a hero’s welcome by the home fans, but his Shakhtar was reduced to 10 men with 15 minutes goal. The Porto defender would make amends at the further, clearing off the line after Augustin had poked hopes of scoring a first Champions League goal were to go when Yaroslav Rakitskiy was sent off for his other end, scoring his side’s second just before half- the ball past Sa, and Augustin would miss another thwarted by a Sa save in the 83rd minute. — AFP second yellow card for a foul on substitute Jens Toornstra. Substitute Michiel Kramer came close to equal- izing in extra time, but Pyatov pulled off another rate with the justice ministries of the United States and good save to block his header. “We can look back also Switzerland,” added Samoura. “There is a firm and real willingness within FIFA to change. If we stick to the on a good match, but we still finished empty hand- FIFA Sec Gen hopes TV rights scandal results published in FIFA’s governance and financial ed,” Feyenoord captain Karim El Ahmadi told Dutch reports at the end of 2016, we are on the right track.” television network Veronica. — AP Appointed in May 2016, Samoura, 55, is the leading ‘will not disrupt’ Qatar World Cup light in FIFA’s drive for more females in leading roles in football governance as the organisation’s first female MADRID: FIFA’s number two Fatma Samoura said much more credible, we cannot afford to jeopardise Secretary General. yesterday she hoped the criminal investigations into the these competitions. The same goes for Qatar. “The And while she believes FIFA is close to maximising Matches on TV sale of World Cup rights to the Qatari-owned beIN organisation of the competition was awarded to them in its income from the men’s World Cup, the women’s (Local Timings) Media group will not “disrupt” Qatar’s hosting of the 2010, well before the new leadership came in, and we game has plenty of room for growth to make it a com- mercial success. The 2014 men’s World Cup earned 2022 World Cup. will ensure that the right conditions are put in place to UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE Swiss prosecutors said last week they had launched be able to organise this competition in the best condi- FIFA a whopping $4.8 billion. “Women’s football has a criminal corruption probe targeting Paris Saint- tions.” The Swiss attorney general’s office said its probe every chance to develop, more so than men’s competi- Qarabag Agdam v Atletico de Madrid 18:00 beIN SPORTS HD 4 Germain president and beIN media chief, Nasser Al- into Valcke and Khelaifi includes allegations of bribery, tions, which will possibly soon reach a ceiling,” contin- ued Samoura. Moscow v Basel 1893 21:45 Khelaifi, and disgraced former FIFA executive Jerome fraud, criminal mismanagement and forgery of a docu- beIN SPORTS HD 7 “Today the competition that finances the other com- Valcke over the sale of media rights for World Cups in ment. Italian police also seized a luxury villa in Sardinia Benfica v Manchester United 21:45 2018-2030. that a police spokesman alleged had been used by petitions is the men’s World Cup. “The idea is that beIN SPORTS HD 6 “I hope that the ongoing investigations will not dis- Khelaifi as “a means of corruption.” Khelaifi and beIN through the new development strategy for women’s Anderlecht v Paris Saint-Germain 21:45 rupt the organisation of this World Cup,” Samoura told Media deny any wrongdoing. football, the women’s World Cup will be a product that beIN SPORTS HD 3 AFP in an exclusive interview in Madrid yesterday. can be sold to TV, commercial sponsors and made a Bayern Munich v Celtic 21:45 Samoura, from Senegal, took over the role previously FIFA ON ‘RIGHT TRACK’ special product, not a by-product of the men’s compe- beIN SPORTS HD 5 held by Valcke as part of FIFA president Gianni Qatar has found itself routinely accused of corrup- tition.” In an unprecedented move the Norwegian foot- Chelsea v Roma 21:45 Infantino’s team tasked with cleaning up the battered tion since controversially winning the right to host the ball federation announced last week its male and female beIN SPORTS HD 2 U image of world football’s governing body after a series 2022 World Cup, charges it has always denied. internationals will be paid equally. “I was one of the first Juventus v Sporting 21:45 O of corruption scandals. However, the latest scandal comes on the back of a to send a tweet to rejoice and encourage Norway for beIN SPORTS HD 4 “The World Cups, as you know, are the jewels of widespread US-led investigation into corruption at this very important step that has been taken,” added Barcelona v Olympiacos 21:45 P FIFA competition. “Now that our structure has become FIFA. “We have collaborated and continue to collabo- Samoura. — AFP beIN SPORTS HD 1 Established 1961 Sport

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2017

Zain celebrates national jet History boys Italy draw Sweden Rampant Reds hit seven to 13ski team world champions 14 in tricky World Cup playoff 15 silence Jurgen Klopp critics

MADRID: Real Madrid’s German midfielder Toni Kroos (L) vies with Tottenham Hotspur’s Ivorian defender Serge Aurier during the UEFA Champions League group H football match Real Madrid CF vs Tottenham Hotspur FC. —AFP Real held by Lloris masterclass

Result keep both clubs at the top of Group H

MADRID: A pair of stunning second-half saves from debut for Real-teed up Ronaldo to head off the post from his cross, Fernando Llorente appeared to be A flowing team move put Toni Kroos clean through Hugo Lloris salvaged a precious point for Tottenham and Karim Benzema pulled the rebound wide with the chopped down by Casemiro inside the area, but Polish and when he was upended by Aurier, Ronaldo stepped Hotspur as they held European champions Real Madrid goal gaping. After a nervous opening 10 minutes, referee Szymon Marciniak was unmoved. up to bury the resulting penalty. Spurs were then bailed 1-1 at the Santiago Bernabeu yesterday. though, Tottenham settled with Harry Kane predictably Despite failing to get the final touch, Kane was out by two outstanding saves from Lloris after the Both sides remain unbeaten in this season’s a constant threat up front. involved once more when restart. The French captain’s outstretched leg diverted Champions League and well placed to progress to the The English international’s Spurs went in front on 28 Benzema’s powerful header from point-blank range to last 16. They each have seven points after Cristiano sensational form saw him minutes as Varane turned safety, much to his former international team-mate’s Ronaldo’s penalty cancelled out Raphael Varane’s own labelled a “complete player” Serge Aurier’s cross into his dismay. And Ronaldo then couldn’t believe his eyes as goal in the first period. by Madrid coach Zinedine Today was own net under pressure Lloris leapt to turn over his rising drive which was The sides meet again with top spot in Group H on Zidane on the eve of the from the striker. headed for the top corner. the line at Wembley on November 1. Borussia game, fuelling speculation a game for Aurier himself then had a A hugely entertaining game continued to swing from Dortmund’s 1-1 draw at APOEL Nicosia means the he could follow Luka long-range effort turned end to end and it was the visitors who had the better Germans and Cypriots remain six points adrift of the Modric and Gareth Bale’s the ‘keepers behind by Navas. And chances to take all three points in the final 20 minutes. group leaders. “At this level it’s a great feeling to get a lead in making a move to Madrid’s frustrations shone Kane had the best opportunity when he was picked out good draw,” Lloris told BT Sport. Madrid in the future. through when Ronaldo was by Llorente’s fine pass, but Navas spread himself well “They put a lot of pressure on. We could have buck- “A point at the Bernabeu, booked for a petulant slap to divert the ball behind. led and conceded a second, but 1-1 at half-time was you’d take that every day of on Jan Vertonghen. However, And the Costa Rican had to be alert again moments good and we kept working together until the end.” An the week,” said Kane. “It shows how far we’ve come as Real demonstrated why they have won this competition later to prevent Christian Eriksen’s drive sneaking in at entertaining encounter got off to a flying start as 18- a team.” Kane’s downward header was turned over by for the past two seasons by restoring order and parity the near post. “Today was a game for the ‘keepers,” year-old Achraf Hakimi-on his Champions League Keylor Navas before he broke free down the left and, before the break. said Navas. — AFP

and dominated a Napoli midfield that lacked regular starters Allan and Jorginho, who were Man City beat Napoli 2-1 for third on the bench. Sterling side-footed home left-footed in the eighth minute after Kyle Walker’s goal-bound win in Champions League shot, off a cross by David Silva, was blocked. It was his eighth goal in 11 matches this season, a MANCHESTER: Manchester City scored to City in the return match on Nov. 1. record that was soon matched by Jesus. twice in the first 13 minutes before holding off City is on a maximum of nine points and De Bruyne seized on a poor clearance and a spirited fightback from Napoli to win 2-1 in should need to win only one of its last three threaded a low center across the face of goal the Champions League yesterday, maintaining games to qualify for the knockout stage. that left Kalidou Koubibaly spread-eagled on its 100 percent start to group play. Napoli arrived as not only the leader but the the turf. Jesus couldn’t fail to tap in. Napoli Napoli could have snatched a draw if it had top scorer in Serie A, and with City coach Pep rode its luck, with De Bruyne crashing a 20- converted both of its penalties at Etihad Guardiola labeling them as one of the best meter curler against the bar and Koubibaly Stadium after City scored through Raheem three sides in European soccer. clearing off the line from Jesus, but came into Sterling and Gabriel Jesus. Dries Mertens had Still, there was defeatist talk in the build-up the game before halftime. When Walker pulled a penalty saved by goalkeeper Ederson by Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis, back Raul Albiol as they challenged to get to a Moraes in the first half and Amadou Diawara who said City was such a favorite that Sarri cross, the Italian side was awarded a penalty scored with his attempt in the 73rd. should rest players ahead of a big Serie A but Ederson guessed the right way to parry Top of the Italian league, Napoli could game against Inter Milan at the weekend. out Mertens’ effort. Napoli pushed City back struggle to advance in the Champions League Sarri, for his part, spoke in glowing terms in the second half and didn’t waste a second having lost two of its first three games in about City and its attacking talent. chance from the spot when Fernandinho MANCHESTER: Manchester City’s English defender Kyle Group F. Maurizio Sarri’s team is third, three City lived up to its billing in the first 25 min- tripped Faouzi Ghoulam. Diawara took over Walker (C) concedes a penalty for his challenge on Napoli’s points behind second-placed Shakhtar utes. Picking up where it left off in the 7-2 win penalty duties and beat Ederson, who again Spanish defender Raul Albiol (centre R) during the UEFA Donetsk, and could be on the brink with a loss over Stoke on Saturday, City attacked in waves guessed the correct side. — AP Champions League Group F football match. — AFP Established 1961

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2017 Business

Gas output could boost Oman Al-Sayer and Bahrah unveils new US tech giants may find their 18GDP next year; deficit a concern 21 generation Hino 500 Series trucks 22 future shaped by Europe

LONDON: A woman looks into the window of a clothes shop in Kensington High street in London yesterday. — AP Gulf Bank records 10% Y-o-Y rise in net profit for first 9 months of 2017 Bank generates net interest income of KD 97.2 million

KUWAIT: Gulf Bank K.S.C.P. announced yesterday its finan- at the end of September 2017 was KD 591.2 million and the bank’s Long-Term Issuer Default Rating would like to congratulate Kuwait on this cial results for the first nine months of 2017. The bank general provisions stood at KD 225 million, representing 38 at ‘A+’ with a Stable Outlook. achievement. recorded a net profit of KD 36.1 million in the first nine percent of total equity. Commenting on the results, Omar In Addition, S&P Global Ratings revised It will have a positive impact on Boursa months of 2017, an increase of Kutayba Alghanim, Gulf Bank their outlook on the Bank to “Positive” from Kuwait’s attractiveness to investors targeting 10 percent over the same peri- Chairman, said: “We are “Stable” and affirmed its issuer credit rating emerging markets. od in 2016. The Bank was able pleased with our Bank’s solid at “A-”in June 2017. This will ultimately enhance the liquidity to generate net interest income Solid performance in the first nine Similarly, Moody’s Investors Service and the flow of investment funds to the of KD 97.2 million and operat- months of 2017. This has affirmed the bank’s “A3” long-term deposits Kuwaiti market.” “Our congratulations go to ing profit of KD 89.7 million performance reflected positively on earn- rating and “Stable” outlook in May 2017. everyone who contributed to this achievement during the first nine months of ings per share as it grew by Furthermore, Capital Intelligence affirmed the including the Capital Market Authority, 2017, recording double digit reflects 10 percent to 12 fils per share Bank’s Financial Strength Rating at “BBB+” Boursa Kuwait and Kuwait Clearing growth of 10 percent and 11 for the first nine months of and the subordinated bond rating at “BBB” Omar Kutayba Alghanim Company,” Al-Ghanim added. percent, respectively, over the positively 2017 compared to the previ- both with “Stable” outlooks in May 2017. Alghanim concluded his remarks on the prior year period. Meanwhile, ous year.” Gulf Bank continues to be strongly recognized both Bank’s results’ by stating: “I would like to thank everyone expenses remained flat for the on EPS internationally and locally. During Q3 2017, the bank who has contributed to these outstanding results. I want to first nine months compared to Credit ratings received the ‘Best Retail Bank in Kuwait’ award and ‘Best thank our customers for their continuous support and loy- the same period in 2016. Gulf Bank continues to Mobile Banking Application in Kuwait’, both by alty towards Gulf Bank. I appreciate the dedication of our Over the first nine months of 2017, total assets of the enjoy favorable ratings from the top international credit International Finance Magazine. management and staff, commitment of our Board of bank grew by 3.5 percent while Loans and Advances to rating agencies. In October 2017, Fitch Ratings upgraded In regard to the FTSE classification of Boursa Kuwait Directors and Shareholders, and the support from the customers increased by 3.3 percent. Total equity reported Gulf Bank’s Viability Rating to ‘bb+’ from ‘bb’ and affirmed as a secondary emerging market, Al-Ghanim said: “I Central Bank of Kuwait.” Fitch Ratings upgrades Gulf Bank’s viability British inflation jumps to rating to ‘bb+’ from ‘bb’ five-year peak in September

KUWAIT: Fitch Ratings has upgraded Gulf Gulf Bank’s large branch network and good LONDON: Britain’s annual inflation rate acceler- fuel costs as pump prices respond to the recent Bank’s Viability Rating to ‘bb+’ from ‘bb’ and brand support the bank’s distribution capabili- ated in September to the highest level in more increase in oil prices,” noted ING economist affirmed the bank’s Long-Term Issuer Default ties. The bank’s business model is domestic-led. than five years, lifted by rising commodity, food James Smith. “But more importantly, it is clear Rating at ‘A+’ with a Stable Outlook. Fitch added that the bank has a good and and transport prices, official data showed yester- that the impact of the pound’s post-Brexit According to Fitch Ratings, the viability rat- competent management team, well-experienced day. Inflation has soared this year as the Brexit- plunge is still very much at play. “Food prices, ing upgrade reflects Gulf Bank’s strong strategy in local and regional banking, with an improving hit pound ramped up import costs, placing which are highly influenced by import costs, execution and improving underwriting stan- record of strategy execution in Kuwait. The household budgets under intense strain as wage increased sharply.” dards and asset-quality. Fitch Rating mentioned bank’s strategic objectives are consistent and growth has failed to keep pace with rising con- The pound tumbled in value following last relatively cautious. sumer prices. year’s shock EU exit referendum. Britain is on Gulf Bank continues to enjoy favorable rat- ings from the top international credit rating The Consumer Prices Index (CPI) 12-month course to leave the bloc in March 2019. Smith agencies. In addition to the most recent viability rate climbed to 3.0 percent last month compared added: “Whilst we think a November rate hike is to 2.9 percent in August, the Office for National highly likely, for now we think the lack of domes- rating upgrade and affirmations from Fitch LONDON: This file photo taken on September Ratings. S&P Global Ratings revised their out- Statistics (ONS) said in a statement. The tically generated inflation combined with a slug- September reading-which was in line with mar- gish growth outlook-and do not forget all the 02, 2017 shows customers shopping at East that Gulf Bank continues to benefit from a fairly look on the Bank to “Positive” from “Stable” and Street Market in south London. — AFP stable operating environment in Kuwait despite affirmed its issuer credit rating at “A-” in June ket expectations-increases the likelihood of noise surrounding Brexit mean that any subse- the economic impact of low oil prices. The bank 2017. Similarly, Moody’s Investors Service Bank of England policymakers raising interest quent tightening is likely to be very limited.” is exposed to slower economic growth, but affirmed the bank’s “A3” long-term deposits rat- rates at their next meeting in November. The last Bank of England governor Mark Carney warned ing months to tackle surging inflation caused by Fitch believes that the government’s continuing ing and “Stable” outlook in May 2017. time the rate hit 3.0 percent was in April 2012, that inflation would likely surge even higher. the weak pound. “Inflation rising potentially capital spending plans will partially offset the Furthermore, Capital Intelligence also affirmed while it was last higher in March of the same Carney, speaking before a parliamentary above the 3.0-percent level in the coming pressures. In their recent report, Fitch stated the Bank’s Financial Strength Rating at “BBB+” year when it surged to 3.5 percent. “The latest committee, said BoE policymakers believed an months is something we have anticipated,” the that Gulf Bank has an adequate franchise in and the subordinated bond rating at “BBB” both headline figures were boosted by a pick-up in interest rate hike may be needed over the com- governor told lawmakers. — AFP Kuwait, both in retail and corporate banking. with “Stable” outlooks in May 2017. 18 Established 1961

Wednesday, October 18, 2017 Business

NBK Economic Report Gas output could boost Oman GDP next year; deficit a concern Inflation seen rising through 2017 and 2018

KUWAIT: Oman’s economic growth will slow to just 0.3 in almost 18 months and up 3 percent y/y. Meanwhile, a percent this year - its weakest since 2011 - on the back of majority of private sector companies reported discourag- Table 1: Key economic indicators a drop in oil output, before recovering in 2018 as gas pro- ing earnings in 2Q17. Companies have also slowed their duction is expanded and the non-oil economy steadies. hiring, with expat employment growing a mere 3 percent There remain notable downside risks, however. The gov- in August, compared to a monthly average of 10 percent in ernment’s large budget deficit could require sharper-than- 2016. Governmental pressure to hire Omani nationals let forecast fiscal consolidation if the financing climate deteri- go in the wake of the economic downturn also contributed orates - perhaps from the anticipated “global tapering” of to the slowdown in expat employment growth. monetary policy - which could also affect the govern- Looking to 2018, increased revenue from a new VAT ment’s plans for economic diversification. And inflation is and recovering oil prices may see government investment set to rise following the introduction of new taxes. On the spending pick up, with growth further lifted by the com- upside, Oman is benefitting from trade diversion due to the plete launch of the BP Khazzan tight gas project. Indeed, ongoing rift between Qatar and the Saudi-led bloc. this may lead to stronger Despite the above, we government consumption, have nudged up our gas production, and LNG growth forecasts to reflect exports. Household con- both non-oil dynamics sumption will grow but at and an earlier-than- Real GDP a subdued pace, as con- expected pick-up in gas international as a newfound transit hub. If the dispute per- tinues to liberalize prices on energy and other goods and production. Household growth to sumers grapple with high- sists, these effects could become more deeply entrenched. services and introduces VAT, offsetting downward pres- expenditures will grow er prices (VAT) and mod- New shipping lines have been opened between Oman and sures from global food and energy prices. Inflation will modestly even with the weaken to est jobs growth. Qatar’s recently inaugurated Hamad port. average 1.8 percent in 2017 rising to 4.2 percent next year headwinds facing con- Oman continues to - though delay in implementing VAT beyond the Q1 built sumers, and the pursuit of 0.3% in 2017 pursue diversification ini- Oil & gas sector to pick up in to our assumptions would see the latter come in lower. business friendly laws tiatives in a bid to divest After an exceptional 2016 that saw average daily oil should support non-oil its economy from oil. production breach 1 million barrels per day, oil output Fiscal deficit growth. The launch of the These efforts, however, will contract in 2017 as Oman complies with the cuts The fiscal position remains very weak. At 80 percent of are being held back by BP Khazan project’s first agreed by OPEC and non-OPEC countries. However, the its OMR 3 billion target just 6 months into 2017, the gov- lower oil prices, which are affecting the pace of invest- train in September 2017, with the second train to follow in launch of the BP Khazzan tight gas project at end-2017 ernment is likely to overshoot its deficit projection for the ment. A friendlier foreign investment law (due to be offici- 1Q18, will boost oil GDP and partially offset the extension and early 2018 will deliver a strong boost to the gas sec- second year in a row. Recent public finance data showed ated soon) and a stronger focus on tourism and other sec- of oil production cuts taken in accordance with the tor as daily production capacity is increased by 1 billion little progress in significantly reducing spending, which tors may help boost non-oil activity going forward. OPEC/non-OPEC agreement. Overall GDP growth is fore- cubic feet, or close to 25 percent. Oman’s hydrocarbon was virtually unchanged in 1H17 from 1H16. Current expen- Nonetheless, growth in the non-oil economy will average a cast at 0.3 percent and 2.8 percent for 2017 and 2018, GDP is forecast to decline 2.9 percent in 2017, before ris- ditures increased by a small 1.3 percent, at the expense of modest 2.4 percent per year in 2017 and 2018. respectively. ing 3.4 percent in 2018. investment expenditures (down 6 percent), on the back of Oman is not participating in the blockade of the Qatari Latest high frequency activity indicators are mixed. Car higher defense spending and interest payments. Efforts to economy and could see a marginally positive economic curb public sector wage growth, however, did materialize registrations were at their lowest in five years in August, Excise tax and VAT impact, as trade and travel between Qatar and both Saudi Consumer price inflation has eased in recent months and somewhat, with civil ministry spending (which includes with the 12-month rolling total down 23 percent y/y. Hotel Arabia and the UAE is diverted. Omani ports (Duqm and stood at 1.1 percent y/y in August, but will pick up in wages) decreasing by 2.4 percent. On the bright side, rev- revenues, however, shook off a prolonged contractionary Salalah) have reported increased bilateral trade between 4Q17 as the government implements an excise tax. enues, both oil and non-oil, rose on the back of higher oil period, with July’s 12-month rolling total at its highest level the two countries, while Qatari travelers are using Muscat Inflation will rise further in 2018 as the government con- prices and better fee collection and tax revenue.

NBK named Fitch affirms NBK Best Bank in rating at ‘AA-’ Kuwait 2017 by with a stable outlook Global Finance KUWAIT: Fitch Ratings affirmed NBK’s Long-Term Issuer Default Rating (IDR) at AA- with a Stable KUWAIT: National Bank of Kuwait Outlook. Fitch has also downgraded NBK’s Viability (NBK) has been named the Best Rating (VR) to “a-” from “a” as a re-assessment of the Bank in Kuwait 2017 by the interna- Bank against regional peers with similar ratings when tional financial publication Global looking at financial metrics, both ratios and absolute rienced management team that supports the Bank’s Finance. The award was presented values. Fitch said that NBK’s Support Rating Floor at good execution. The Bank’s strategic objectives have to George Richani, General AA-, a notch above Fitch’s actual country Domestic- been consistent over the past years and well-articulat- Manager - International Banking Systemically Important Bank (D-SIB) SRF of A+; is ed to achieve organic growth and group integration”. Group at NBK, at an award cere- reflected in the Bank’s unique status In addition to the above mention benefits that NBK mony held on the occasion of the And systemic importance as the flagship bank in enjoys, Fitch highlighted on the benefits that the Bank International Monetary Fund Kuwait, and its close business and strategic links with attains given its diversified business model, wider Annual meeting held in Washington. the state. Fitch also mentioned that the future stable opportunities and size, to reduce concentrations com- NBK was chosen the Best Bank outlook given to NBK is supported by the future out- pared to domestic peers. in Kuwait based on input from look of the state (AA/Stable) and its ability to provide Speaking of asset quality, Fitch mentioned that “NBK industry analysts, corporate execu- support to its banks. has a record of low impaired and problem loans (about 1.2 tives and banking consultants. “NBK continues to benefit from a fairly stable oper- percent of gross loans at end-1H17). The Bank’s leading Criteria for choosing the winners ating environment in Kuwait despite the economic franchise and diversified business model enables NBK to included growth in assets, prof- impact of low oil prices” said Fitch. “Our assessment of underwrite high quality borrowers”. On the other hand, itability, strategic relationships, cus- George Richani receives the award from Global Finance as the operating environment considers NBK’s exposure “NBK’s profitability is stronger than peers in terms of tomer service, competitive pricing, a Best Bank in Kuwait 2017. to developed markets such as Western Europe and generation capabilities, diversification and stability”. and innovative products. North America, but also to more challenging ones NBK’s Fitch Core Capital (FCC) has improved and “We have selected the winners The Bank’s ratings are support- Kuwait in 2016 by the Banker, regionally such as Egypt and Bahrain”. was in line with peers at end-1H17 due to a KD 137.6 based on performance over the past ed by its high capitalization, pru- Euromoney and Global Finance. Fitch added that NBK is the flagship bank in Kuwait million rights issue in 2016 and continuous internal year, as well as subjective criteria, dent lending policies, and its disci- NBK enjoys the widest banking with leading market shares in the domestic market and capital generation. Successful issuances of tier 1 including reputation and manage- plined approach to risk manage- presence with a local and interna- clear competitive advantages as the Bank’s size, largest ($700 million) and tier 2 (KD 125 million) instruments ment excellence,” said Global ment, in addition to its highly rec- tional network reaching 4 conti- branch network, distribution capabilities, strong client in 2015 have supported Fitch’s view on the Bank’s high Finance. NBK continues to enjoy ognized and very stable manage- nents. NBK’s international pres- relationships, expertise, brand, reputation and long- ability to raise capital and boost regulatory ratios to collectively one of the highest rat- ment team. NBK was also named ence spans many of the world’s established geographical footprint. Moreover, “NBK is adhere to its additional D-SIB capital requirements. ings among all banks in the Middle among Global Finance’s list of the leading financial centers including the only Kuwaiti bank to be able to provide both con- Moreover, the recent 5-year senior unsecured debt East from the three international 50 safest banks in the world for New York, Europe, GCC, Middle ventional and Islamic banking (through its 58.3 percent issuance of $700 million has supported NBK’s fund- rating agencies Moody’s, Fitch twelve consecutive times and was East, Singapore as well as China owned Sharia-compliant bank, Boubyan Bank)”. Fitch ing. The bank’s liquidity is well-managed and liquidity Ratings and Standard and Poor’s. awarded as the Best Bank in (Shanghai). emphasized also that “NBK has strong and well-expe- risk remains contained. EXCHANGE RATES

Al-Muzaini Exchange Co. Canadian dollar 244.470 Malaysian Ringgit 72.590 Chinese Yuan 0.044419 0.047919 Turkish lira 83.310 Chinese Yuan Renminbi 46.275 Hong Kong Dollar 0.036837 0.039587 Swiss Franc 311.250 ASIAN COUNTRIES Thai Bhat 10.130 Indian Rupee 0.004245 0.004993 Australian Dollar 239.250 Turkish Lira 83.270 Indonesian Rupiah 0.000018 0.000024 Japanese Yen 2.698 US Dollar Buying 301.650 Indian Rupees 4.660 Japanese Yen 0.002617 0.002797 Pakistani Rupees 2.874 GOLD Bahrain Exchange Company Korean Won 0.000258 0.000273 Srilankan Rupees 1.967 20 Gram 249.070 Malaysian Ringgit 0.068026 0.074026 Nepali Rupees 2.931 Nepalese Rupee 0.003022 0.003192 10 Gram 127.450 CURRENCY BUY SELL Singapore Dollar 224.330 Pakistan Rupee 0.002693 0.002983 5 Gram 64.570 Europe Hongkong Dollar 38.783 Philippine Peso 0.005813 0.006113 Bangladesh Taka 3.694 British Pound 0.394530 0.404530 Singapore Dollar 0.218732 0.228732 Philippine Peso 5.887 Dollarco Exchange Co. Ltd Czech Korune 0.005833 0.017833 Sri Lankan Rupee 0.001628 0.002208 Thai Baht 9.172 Danish Krone 0.043902 0.048902 Taiwan 0.010005 0.010185 Rate for Transfer Selling Rate Euro 0. 350902 0.359902 Thai Baht 0.008800 0.009350 GCC COUNTRIES Georgian Lari 0.134888 0.134888 Saudi Riyal 80.814 US Dollar 302.500 Norwegian Krone 0.0.34285 0.039485 Qatari Riyal 83.235 Canadian Dollar 242.060 Arab Romanian Leu 0.081662 0.081662 Omani Riyal 787.032 Sterling Pound 402.500 Bahraini Dinar 0.796322 0.804822 Russian ruble 0.005264 0.005264 Bahraini Dinar 804.700 Euro 357.870 Egyptian Pound 0.014364 0.020272 Swiss Frank 297.040 Slovakia 0.009027 0.019027 UAE Dirham 82.509 Iranian Riyal 0.000084 0.000085 Bahrain Dinar 802.860 Swedish Krona 0.033310 0.038310 Iraqi Dinar 0.000201 0.000261 ARAB COUNTRIES UAE Dirhams 82.752 Swiss Franc 0.303200 0.314200 Egyptian Pound - Cash 19.950 Qatari Riyals 83.572 Jordanian Dinar 0.422542 0.431542 Egyptian Pound - Transfer 17.075 Saudi Riyals 81.527 Australasia Kuwaiti Dinar 1.000000 1.000000 Jordanian Dinar 427.936 Yemen Riyal/for 1000 1.216 Australian Dollar 0.229127 0.241127 Lebanese Pound 0.000156 0.000256 Tunisian Dinar 123.610 Egyptian Pound 17.180 Moroccan Dirhams 0.021949 0.045949 Sri Lankan Rupees 1.970 New Zealand Dollar 0.210521 0.220021 Jordanian Dinar 427.450 Omani Riyal 0.780203 0.785883 Indian Rupees 4.668 Lebanese Lira/for 1000 2.019 Qatar Riyal 0.078884 0.083824 Syrian Lira 0.000 Pakistani Rupees 2.871 America Morocco Dirham 32.635 Bangladesh Taka 3.716 Canadian Dollar 0.236141 0.245141 Saudi Riyal 0.079673 0.080973 Philippines Pesso 5.899 US Dollars 0.298750 0.303170 Syrian Pound 0.001283 0.001503 EUROPEAN & AMERICAN COUNTRIES Cyprus pound 18.000 US Dollars Mint 0.299250 0.303170 Tunisian Dinar 0.118832 0.126832 US Dollar Transfer 302.850 Japanese Yen 3.695 Turkish Lira 0.078131 0.088431 Euro 357.820 Syrian Pound 1.590 Asia UAE Dirhams 0.081030 0.082730 Nepalese Rupees 2.928 Sterling Pound 403.240 Bangladesh Taka 0.003300 0.003884 Yemeni Riyal 0.000984 0.001064 Established 1961 19 Business Wednesday, October 18, 2017 Fitch Ratings reaffirms KIB’s long-term IDR at ‘A+’ Agency affirms viability rating with a stable outlook

KUWAIT: Fitch Ratings, one of the leading by the improved financial results, comes as a regional, and international awards further enhancing it’s global credit ratings agencies, has reaffirmed result of the Bank’s new strategy. This strategy, already impressive collection of industry awards and Kuwait International Bank’s long-term Issuer which is currently underway, aims to bring recognitions. The most recent of these achievements Default Rating (IDR) at ‘A+’ and affirmed via- about a comprehensive transformation across include the “Best Strategic Vision in Banking” award at the bility rating (VR) to “bb-” with a stable outlook all sectors of the Bank, including: better asset 2017 Arab Banks Awards & Commendations of Excellence on 16 October 2017. The stable outlook reflects quality, healthy capital buffer, improved per- ceremony, which was organized by the World Union of the outlook on the Kuwaiti sovereign rating. formance, increase in profitability, new and Arab Bankers (WUAB) in Beirut. Additionally, the Bank According to Fitch, KIB continues to ben- innovative products, and enhanced service efit from a fairly stable operating environment offerings to customers.” Summary of Fitch Rating Actions in Kuwait despite the economic impact of low Al-Jarrah further added: “KIB continues to oil prices. The Bank is exposed to slower eco- make major strides in its mission to bring • Long-Term IDR affirmed at nomic growth, but Fitch believes that the gov- about a complete evolution of its banking ‘A+’; Outlook Stable ernment’s continuing capital spending plans Sheikh Mohamed operations and offerings. In an effort to pro- will partially offset such pressures. Jarrah Al-Sabah vide customers with an enhanced digital • Short-Term IDR affirmed at ‘F1’ Fitch’s expectation of support from the banking experience, we have made major • Viability Rating affirmed at ‘bb-’ authorities is underpinned by Kuwait’s strong ability to investments in upgrading our IT infrastructure and stream- • Support Rating affirmed at ‘1’ provide support to its banks, as reflected by its rating lining our systems and processes. We also continue to • Support Rating Floor (AA/Stable) and strong willingness to do so irrespective of enhance our full suite of products and services, introducing affirmed at ‘A+’ the banks’ size, franchise, funding structure and the level of innovative and state-of-the-art banking solutions. Our Al- government ownership. Boushra and Arzaq Deposit accounts continue to offer Fitch views KIB’s new and experienced management attractive profit rates, and we continue to have the highest received the “Best Change Management - Kuwait” Award team as necessary in order to execute the Bank’s new strat- rates in the market for savings. There is also a major push by The Banker Middle East. KIB was also awarded the egy set out in 2015. Sheikh Mohamed Jarrah Al-Sabah, on the corporate banking side of our business, as we are ‘Excellence in Development of Islamic Banking Services’ Chairman of KIB said: “This latest rating action is reflective developing tailored solutions and innovative products for award by the Union of Arab Banks (UAB) in recognition of of KIB’s impressive standing, and they serve to highlight the corporate clients. the Bank’s outstanding efforts to continuously develop its Bank’s strong financial core as well as the soundness of its The Chairman concluded by saying: “Within the past banking products and services, promote Islamic banking, growth strategy. KIB’s positive performance, as highlighted year, KIB has garnered a number of prestigious local, serve the local community, as well as its customers.

ensure that they benefit from a the latest tools and technology available for car inspection and range of investments,” said Roger service. The checkup covers the most important mechanical and HSBC wins Euromoney Winfield, CEO of HSBC in Kuwait. Free checkup electrical components related to a car’s operation and safety, HSBC gained the most votes including disk brakes, tire treads and pressure, car battery, wind- and ranked first globally for quali- shield wipers, front and rear lights, suspension, shock absorbers and awards for best cash ty of service delivered. The Bank and amazing controlling sticks. And because Chevrolet Alghanim is committed to also topped the ranks in four out total customer satisfaction, the offer also includes free car wash as of the seven regions for best serv- well. Once the checkup has been performed, customers will receive manager in Kuwait ice, a new metric that Euromoney discounts from a comprehensive report detailing the condition of the car, the introduced this year. In addition, required maintenance and pricing. With 30 percent discount on KUWAIT: HSBC in Kuwait was voted as the best Domestic Cash Financial Institutions voted HSBC Chevrolet Alghanim spare parts and 10 percent discount on labor fees for maintenance Manager for the 8th consecutive year by both Corporates and first in 27 awards for its expertise and professional service, customers can enjoy driving their Chevy Financial Institutions in the Euromoney Cash Management in foreign-currency payments. safely without having to worry about potential car malfunctions Survey 2017. HSBC was also awarded Best Regional Cash Roger Winfield, CEO of Roger Winfield added: “The suc- KUWAIT: In line with its unceasing commitment to guarantee the ruining their quality time in winter. Chevrolet Alghanim encourages Manager in the Middle East, the Bank’s 9th win since 2009, and HSBC in Kuwait cess is testament to the strong safety and peace of mind of its customers and their families, customers to take advantage of this free checkup before it’s too late retained its title as Best Global Cash Manager. relationships we have built and Chevrolet Alghanim introduces a free checkup campaign on all and enjoy the valuable benefits and peace-of-mind it offers. “These awards demonstrate that our Global Liquidity and maintained with our clients and demonstrates the strength of our Chevrolet vehicles being serviced at any Chevrolet Alghanim Customers can benefit from this amazing checkup offer by Cash Management product offering stands out as a market lead- global footprint.” Euromoney’s Annual Cash Management Survey service center, starting from October 15th to December 15, 2017. visiting either the Shuwaikh Service Center, located in Shuwaikh ing and first class proposition for corporates and financial institu- reached 28,000 cash managers, treasurers and financial officers. Chevrolet Alghanim encourages its loyal customers to visit their Industrial Area, from Saturday to Thursday, 7:00am till 7:00pm, tions. More than 40,000 clients worldwide rely on us for their It provides them with the opportunity to comment on the stan- service centers and take advantage of this limited time offer. and Friday, 2:00pm till 7:00 pm, or the Fahaheel Service Center, liquidity and cash management solutions. With our expertise, we dard of the international cash management services they receive, The special safety checkup entails a detailed inspection per- from Saturday to Wednesday, 7:30 am till 6:00pm, and Thursday, are able to advise clients to better manage their excess cash and as well as rate the financial institutions they bank with. formed by a team of professionally trained service advisors using from 7:30am till 1:00pm. 20 Established 1961 Business Wednesday, October 18, 2017 Turkish Airlines flying to 10 Russian destinations

KUWAIT: Turkish Airlines is the only carrier that is Europe” this year, like the last five years. of providing a service like this, besides expanding flying to 10 destinations in Russia directly from The Turkish Airlines lounge in Istanbul welcomes our flight network to Russia, which already consists Istanbul: Moscow, St Petersburg, Kazan, Sochi, passengers who arrive early with privileged comfort of ten destinations. Yekaterinburg, Ufa, Samara, Rostov, Stavropol and features. It has brought the “Best Business Class “We do believe that the Istanbul-Moscow lounge Voronezh. Six destinations through Moscow are: Private Passenger Lounge” award to Turkish Airlines will give our guests the same comfort onboard our Syktyvkar, Belgorod, Mineralnye Vody, Makhachkala, by providing various treats. Catering provided by the planes. The special lounge of Star Alliance member Murmansk and Kaliningrad. Turkish DO&CO both inside the aircraft and in the Turkish Airlines will be open to passengers of other private passenger lounge was an important factor for Star Alliance member airlines. The lounge is built Business Class Lounge this success. over a 635 m≤ area and has a capacity of serving 150 According to the results of 2016 Skytrax passen- guests at the same time. Turkish Airlines partner ger rankings, the “Best Business Class Private Business Class Lounge in Moscow DO&CO offers Turkish hospitality elements at the Passenger Lounge” and “Best Business Class Private The Istanbul-Moscow lounge is also run by Istanbul-Moscow lounge. Passenger Lounge Catering” and “Best Airline DO&CO, which is a successful affiliation of Turkish “The lounge has a kitchen and serving units, pide Company of Europe” awards once again go to Airlines. Great care has been placed on every detail (Turkish pizza) and grill units, salad bars, sweet Turkish Airlines. The Turkish Airlines lounge is much like architecture and menu. The lounge’s opening counters with traditional sweets like baklava, hot and larger than some airports in Europe. ceremony took place at Moscow Vnukovo Airport cold drink counters, library, media screen, bar con- The Skytrax Passenger Preferences Awards per- terminal yesterday. Turkish Airlines Chairman of the sole, teleconference hall, work area with computers, forms research and development on different areas executive board Hamdi Topcu, Turkish Airlines charging units, luggage counters, and prayer rooms. of the global aviation without any commercial con- Moscow manager Mefail Deriba, Vnukovo Airport In his opening speech, Topcu said: “We are lead- There is wireless Internet service as well. Its design cerns, awarding airline companies regularly every chairman of executive council Vitaly Vantsev and ing the way again with our international passenger is dominated by porches, which is a must in tradi- year taking performance as base. It announced Vnukovo Airport General Manager Vasily Alexandrov lounge, the first in the service of our passengers out- tional Turkish architecture. The lounge is similar to Turkish Airlines as the “Best Airline Company of joined the opening ceremony. side of our transfer center in Istanbul. We are proud Turkish Airlines’ Istanbul lounge.” Established 1961 21 Business Wednesday, October 18, 2017 Al-Sayer and Bahrah unveil new generation Hino 500 Series trucks

Hino Advantage - drive your business easier

KUWAIT: Management team of Bahrah Trading Company (BTC) and Hino Motors Ltd during the unveiling of the new generation Hino 500 Series trucks in Kuwait. — Photos by Joseph Shagra

KUWAIT: Bahrah Trading Company (BTC), one of the drivers pleasant. The seats were re-designed to better Al-Sayer Group Holding Companies and Hino Motors fit the driver’s body and alleviate fatigue at long-dis- Ltd, member of Toyota Motor Corporation has unveiled tance driving. With reclining and seat siding functions, new generation of medium-duty 500 series trucks from the seat provides optimal driving position and con- Hino. The launch event which was held at Al-Sayer tributes to reduce the driver fatigue. Ballroom at Ardiya was attended by Mubarak Naser Explaining the strategic commitment of Al-Sayer for Al-Sayer CEO, Bengt Schultz, Chief Operating Officer Hino in Kuwait Bengt Schultz said “We are having a and Bader Musaed Al-Sayer, Business Director of Al- well spread network of 3 showrooms for Hino, including Sayer Group Holding, Melakandy Hamza General 3S facility for Hino products in Ahmad Area and with Manager BTC, Tadashi Fujiwara Deputy Chief of the Two Spare Parts outlets. This year is proving very posi- Mission from Embassy of Japan, Tamazawa Chief tive for Hino and ALSAYER, as we continue to grow Engineer, Sakagami Manager from Hino Motors Japan, our market share since the launch of the brand in 2014 Yoshihiro Koyama Managing Director, Nakamura and we are confident of our future facilities investment General Manager from Hino Motors Middle East UAE, and expansion plans”. members from Bahrah and Corporate Marketing along “HINO and Bahrah Trading think that to support our with distinguished customers of Hino and representa- customers’ business except truck is also very impor- tives from the press and media. tant. This is called Total Support activities. It should Welcoming the audience Melakandy Hamza said, “It contribute to minimize the customers lifetime cost and gives me immense pleasure to welcome you all to this maximize uptime of customer’s vehicle. Through these exciting occasion of launching all new HINO 500 series activities it is our wish to be recognized as a Business trucks this evening dignitaries and our honorable cus- idea of value, solidness and unwavering quality. The incorporate new multi reflector headlights offering in- Partner of our customers” said Yoshihiro Koyama. tomers present here, thank you for your graceful pres- improvement of the new Hino 500 arrangement con- wrinkled shine and also broadened sidelong spread and As the only exclusive dealership in Kuwait Bahrah ence to enrich this important occasion that signifies an centrated on three fundamental targets - Implementing separation in from improving evening time visibility, fog (BTC) is the one-stop-shop for Hino trucks: important milestone for HINO in Kuwait”. radical, earth shattering development by presenting light, front and back under run guard, non-freezing • They sell the full range of light, medium and heavy Highlighting Al-Sayer and Bahrah’s customer com- new innovations and methodologies, including new out- stopping device framework, guard support, ISO frame- duty Hino trucks, as well and light commercial vehicles mitment Bader Musaed Al-Sayer said “Since inception, line, propelled innovation, work darts on tires for in various makes and models. over 60 years ago, Al-Sayer Group Holding vision was exceedingly solid edge upgrading serviceability • Their award winning service department helps clear and insightful following the principle of “Ultimate and upgraded undercar- and furthermore lessen- keep your investment on the road longer by giving you commitment to our deep rooted values of honesty, riage; guaranteeing high ing wear and harm of the option to service your vehicle in hours to minimize trust, credibility and providing the best high quality caliber even after cus- Experience the jolts even with rehashed your downtime. products with the best aftersales services to our cus- tomization, empowering establishment and evac- • Parts department stocks an extensive range of tomers without compromising the continuous develop- incredible versatility and Hino quality, uation (?) of tires. The quality Hino truck parts. ment of the quality of products and services offered”. adaptability; supporting Hino 500 is furnished Hino is engineered to deliver outstanding perform- According to Yoshihiro Koyama “HINO’s history assorted client applica- durability with full air S-cam ance in the harsh heat and dust of Kuwait. After all it is dates back to more than one-hundred years having tions with extensive mod- brakes that would a technology that has proven itself in the heat and dust founded in nineteen-ten, known then as Tokyo Gas el line-up, adequately and reliability enhance braking profi- of the Paris Dakar Rally - which has earned the nick- Industry. The first Japanese truck was produced in reflecting client needs ciency and also offer name Little Monsters Hino 500 Series offers enough nineteen-seventeen which was called TGE A model. In The all-new Hino500 lessened upkeep costs. variety to suit all needs. With its innovative technology, nineteen-forty-two, Hino spun off as Hino Heavy territory is furnished with Some of the other class leading engine and transmission choices, it maxi- Industry. After that, HINO became a part of the Toyota EURO 3 Turbo Charged Engines and Intercooler for improvements on the all-new Hino 500 over its prede- mizes efficiency and significantly reduces consumption. Group. The alliance with Toyota Motor Corporation enhanced effectiveness and yield. All-New Hino 500 cessor range are 2 step easier entry and exit, wider “We are pleased to work side by side with the man- started back in nineteen-sixty-six. In two-thousand has a complete line-up of model range with multiple tread for increased stability, better seat, improved sus- agement of Hino Company to present an outstanding one, Toyota’s ownership surpassed over 50 percent, wheel base options to suit super structure fabrication. pension and strengthened differential. variety of trucks packed with strength, guaranteed Hino being their commercial vehicle arm”. durability and exceptional quality, which embody the Safety Comfort Space essence of Hino Company and Al-Sayer Group Holding New HINO500 series - Constantly A portion of the new safety features on the Hino 500 Hino500 changed the driver’s seat to make even long philosophy, to meet all your needs and requirements” at the forefront of evolution added Bader Musaed Al-Sayer. The most recent age of the Hino 500 Series trucks is furnished with a 7.7-liter Euro III- compliant engine New 500 Series with a heavy duty common rail fuel injection system and turbocharger innovation for keeping up control in Newly developed wide-ratio transmission that any driving conditions while accomplishing lower fuel contributes to reduction of transportation consumption and emission levels. The series is suitable for use in applications from costs. tipper and reefer trucks to general cargo vehicles, and includes a range of safety features, including an anti- • Reliable performance, improved comfort and lock braking system, front underrun protection system class-leading safety features. (FUPS) and rear underrun protection system (RUPS). Commenting on the main development concept of • Extensive Hino line-up always provide the new Hino 500 trucks Mamoru Tamazawa, Chief most suitable vehicle to your business needs Engineer said “We are deploying the New 500 Series from our base in Japan to make a valuable contribution and working environment. to our customers’ business in two ways: One is “Maximizing operational effectiveness” and the other is Hino is No # 1 Heavy and Medium Duty Truck “Minimizing vehicle life-cycle costs”. The New 500 in Japan for 44 Years. Series is focused on achieving our global strategy. We aim to respond flexibly to local conditions in each JD power rated Hino No#1 for customer’s sat- region through “GLOBAL” manufacturing.” isfaction, eight years in Heavy duty segment Performance and three years in Light duty segment in a row. The all-new Hino 500 Series epitomizes Hino’s plan 22 Established 1961 Technology Wednesday, October 18, 2017 Huawei forges new alliances to drive ME digital transformation ICT solutions provider offers new solutions, platforms for cloud services

KUWAIT: The leading global ICT solutions provider, Huawei, OceanStor Dorado V3 is now certified as an enterprise stor- showcased an exciting range of innovative services and solu- age solution for real-time database SAP HANA. Following tions as part of its ‘platform + ecosystem’ portfolio at GITEX Huawei’s best practices related to SAP software in industries, Technology Week 2017. Huawei’s participation at GITEX OceanStor Dorado V3 can improve the efficiency of a system showcased the power of new ICT, particularly its value to spe- running SAP software by at least 30 percent, with the data cific sector within the region, and emphasized the need for query time shortened to the microsecond level, expediting collaborative partnerships, which took the form of alliances online data transactions and real-time analytics. with business and technology leaders, co-created solutions, In addition, Huawei and local UAE fintech solution provider and the bringing together of thought leaders and subject mat- Omnia Pay showcased a new innovative bank branch transfor- ter experts to address the opportunities and challenges of dig- mation solution that provides an omni-channel experience italization. Throughout the across mobile, laptop, inter- exhibition, Huawei illustrat- net or Smart TV. Huawei ed its goal to become the used GITEX as a platform partner of choice to equip to introduce its new strate- Middle East organizations gy focusing on building a in their efforts to achieve Huawei showcases comprehensive cloud- digital transformation. based services ecosystem The theme of Huawei’s the power ICT at for its Middle East cus- presence at this year’s tomers. This will help accel- GITEX was ‘Leading New GITEX exhibition erate industries’ shift to the ICT, the Road to Digital cloud, build a correspon- Transformation’, with a ding service ecosystem, focus not only on the power develop the needed talent of global technology plat- in cloud technology, and forms through the latest lead the service channel IOT, cloud, SDN and Big Data innovations, but also on the transformation through a network of multinational service digital ecosystem of collaboration through path-breaking partners. Also during GITEX was the third annual Huawei al agendas and organizations are reinventing their business expand on our ability to empower organizations to deliver val- business and technology alliances, and the latest co-created Certified Internetwork Expert (HCIE) Panel Discussion and models through digital strategies. All-cloud, or the full ‘cloudi- ue across a full spectrum of vertical sectors in the Middle East. solutions from OpenLab Dubai. Award Ceremony, which took place on Day 3. In addition to fication’ of networks, operations systems, and services, is the It is through an embrace of ICT solutions and a dedication to Throughout the week, Huawei launched cutting-edge new honoring some of the latest HCIE-certified engineers in the most effective enabler to bring the digital vision into reality. collaboration that we will continue to maximize the develop- products and solutions, and announced new collaborations region, the panel discussed the importance of ICT talent “GITEX has been a fantastic platform for Huawei to show- ment of a digital ecosystem here in the region.” with industry-leading partners. It unveiled its Boundless development and ways in which a quality talent cultivation case our latest business-driven ICT infrastructure solutions, At GITEX Technology Week 2017, visitors experienced Computing server strategy and solutions to drive digital trans- ecosystem can be developed. One of Huawei’s key initiatives at and to engage in dialogue on the drivers and hurdles to con- Huawei’s transformative platforms and solutions for various formation for the Middle East’s businesses, including demon- GITEX was its Middle East Innovation Day, with the theme tinued digital transformation here in the Middle East,” said verticals including public safety and e-Government, trans- strations of two new inclusive technologies: the FusionServer ‘Exploration, Lights the Way Forward’, on Day 1. Innovation Alaa ElShimy, Managing Director & Vice President, Enterprise portation, digital banking, and smart utilities. Huawei’s ‘plat- V5, and the Atlas intelligent cloud hardware platform, with the Day was part of an ongoing global initiative to address pio- Business, Huawei Middle East. “We are incredibly excited form + ecosystem’ strategy continues to help equip organiza- former making its regional debut. neering issues in the world of ICT. Governments in the region about the new partnerships we have announced, and are eager tions for the sweeping changes of digitalization and empowers The company announced that its all-flash storage have embraced the digital transformation through their nation- to work together with strong, strategic local partners to them to Build A Better Connected World.

tent on the internet has become a pressing question Pricey high-tech US tech giants in the US since it was revealed that Russian agen- cies took out thousands of ads on social media dur- ing the presidential campaign, reaching some 10 features define new may find their million people on Facebook alone. That comes on top of the existing concerns about preventing extremist attacks. This month, three men were smartphone wars future shaped arrested after allegedly using smartphone messag- ing apps to plot attacks on the New York City subway and Times Square from their homes in by Europe Canada, Pakistan and the Philippines. The plot was thwarted by an undercover officer, not technology. In some ways it goes to a question of identity. LONDON: Silicon Valley is a uniquely American In this file photo, the Facebook logo is displayed Social media companies see themselves not as creation, the product of an entrepreneurial spirit on an iPad in Philadelphia. — AP publishers but as platforms for other people to and no-holds-barred capitalism that now drives share information, and have traditionally been cau- many aspects of modern life. tious about taking down material. But the likes of Facebook, Google and Apple worldwide. “We want Facebook to be a hostile are increasingly facing an uncomfortable truth: it is place for terrorists,” Monika Bickert, director of Global forum Europe’s culture of tougher oversight of compa- global policy management, and Brian Fishman, But the pressure is on to act. Facebook, Google, nies, not America’s laissez-faire attitude, which counterterrorism policy manager, said in a state- Twitter and YouTube in June created the Global could soon rule their industry as governments seek ment. “The challenge for online communities is the Internet Forum to Combat Terrorism, which says it to combat fake news and prevent extremists from same as it is for real world communities - to get bet- is committed to developing new content detection using the internet to fan the flames of hatred. ter at spotting the early signals before it’s too late.” technology, helping smaller companies combat While the US has largely relied on market But Roberts argues the companies have been extremism and promoting “counter-speech,” con- forces to regulate content in a country where free slow to react and are trying to play catch up. The tent meant to blunt the impact of extremist materi- speech is revered, European officials have shown fact is the technology needed to detect and al. Proponents of counter-speech argue that rather they are willing to act. Germany recently passed a remove dangerous posts hasn’t kept up with the than trying to take down every Islamic State group law imposing fines of up to 50 million euros ($59 threat, experts say. Removing such material still post, internet companies and governments should million) on websites that don’t remove hate speech requires judgment, and artificial intelligence is not do more to promote content that actively refutes within 24 hours. British Prime Minister Theresa yet good enough to determine the difference, for TOKYO: A man checks his smartphone at Ginza shopping district in Tokyo extremist propaganda. This approach will unmask May wants companies to take down extremist example, between an article about the so-called yesterday. — AFP the extremist message of hate and violence in the material within two hours. And across the EU, Islamic State and posts from the group itself. “marketplace of ideas,” they argue, though critics Google has for years been obliged to remove In other words, taking down much of this mate- see it as just another form of propaganda. FRANKFURT AM MAIN: The front lines something that intertwines with our daily search results if there is a legitimate complaint rial still needs human input, said Frank Pasquale, an Facebook has recently published details of its of the battle for smartphone dominance life,” Huawei consumer devices chief about the content’s veracity or relevance. expert in information law and changing technology counterterrorism strategy for the first time. These over the coming years have grown clearer Richard Yu said Monday, promising “a new “I anticipate the EU will be where many of these at the University of Maryland. Acknowledging that include using artificial intelligence to prevent after Chinese technology firm Huawei pre- era of intelligent smartphones”. issues get played out,” said Sarah T. Roberts, a pro- is difficult for companies that were built by push- extremist images and videos from being uploaded sented an AI-powered phone designed to fessor of information studies at UCLA who has ing the boundaries of technology. and algorithms to find and disable accounts linked go head-to-head with Samsung and Apple. High-stakes game studied efforts to monitor and vet internet content. “They don’t like to admit how primitive their Features needed to propel a device into the The latest round of the smartphone wars Objectionable content “is the biggest problem to pages known to support extremist movements. technologies are; it defeats their whole narrative top end are growing increasingly complex also showcases just how huge the invest- going forward. It’s no longer acceptable for the The company also plans to increase the staff dedi- that they can save the world,” Pasquale said. “You and expensive to develop, meaning only the ments needed to compete for a podium firms to say that they can’t do anything about it.” cated to reviewing complaints of objectionable kill off the golden goose if you cast doubt over the companies with the deepest expertise and position have become. How closely to manage the massive amounts of con- material by more than 60 percent to some 8,000 power of their algorithms.” — AP pockets can hope to compete. “Alongside Samsung and Apple, On the outside, the differences between Huawei’s growing technology capabilities phones from the world’s three biggest threaten to place market leadership beyond smartphone makers are small: they boast a the financial resources” of smaller firms, screen stretching from edge to edge, dual said Ian Fogg, mobile and telecoms industry Greenpeace cameras for high-quality photos and big expert at research firm IHS Markit. In 2016, batteries. Under the hood, the investments the Chinese group reported 76.4 billion Samsung, Apple and Huawei have made yuan ($11.6 billion; 9.8 billion euros) of faults many into technology at the heart of the devices spending on research and development, is what they hope will set them apart. with its massive telecoms infrastructure Both US giant Apple and Chinese firm business helping fuel its drive for handset tech giants for Huawei have bet on artificial intelligence dominance. South Korea’s Samsung capabilities designed to take some of the Electronics reported spending 14.8 trillion load off users’ shoulders, showcasing them won ($13.1 billion), while Apple forked out environment in their phones’ cameras at glossy launch just over $10 billion. But however much events. Announcing its iPhone X last month, cash firms fling at flashy features, in the end Apple showed off unlocking the device by their success will rest on the devices’ impact recognizing the owner’s face. Huawei on reception by the general public-and the Monday demonstrated its newest smart- armies of programmers writing the apps SEOUL: The environmental group Greenpeace phone Mate 10 recognizing when it was that will run on the phones. issued a report yesterday giving technology pointed at a plate of food, a vase of flowers titans including Samsung Electronics, Amazon or a family pet and adjusting its camera set- ‘Open ecosystem’ and Huawei low marks for their environmental tings automatically. “Huawei’s challenge is how to maximize impact. Many of the biggest technology compa- Systems like these are based on so- the use of its AI chip given it does not nies failed to deliver on commitments to reduce called “machine learning”-meaning that develop or control the smartphone operat- emissions of greenhouse gases and are still SEOUL: College students experience Samsung Electronics’ Galaxy Note 8 smart- rather than a human programmer working ing system its devices use, Android, unlike reluctant to commit fully to renewable energy, phones during the 2017 Korea Electronics Grand Fairs in Seoul yesterday. — AP out from scratch how to recognize a face, Apple,” IHS’ Fogg said. Apple tightly con- according to Greenpeace USA’s Guide to for example, a piece of software teaches trols its whole devices, from hardware Greener Electronics. The report, which assessed urged global tech companies to transition to chains and the manufacturing of these products itself to identify patterns by sifting through through the operating system to third-par- 17 top global tech companies in three areas, also renewable energy, prompting some of them to as well as the data centers where social media, mountains of data. ty apps, meaning developers know exactly faulted many of them for failing to use more switch to environmentally friendly power cloud computing and other applications run, so Huawei said it had trained its camera on what they can expect when programming recycled materials in their products and slow sources for their data centers. The group is urg- have the greenhouse gas emissions. 100 million photos to achieve its speedy for the iPhone. Google’s Android system is progress in phasing out use of toxic materials. ing the industry to tackle energy issues in man- Samsung Electronics received a grade of D in image recognition, and also showcased the more open, but the operating system is Mate 10’s power for language translation or used on thousands of phone models from “Tech companies claim to be at the forefront ufacturing and supply chains, design longer- its use of renewable energy, which accounted housekeeping tasks like organizing files. different manufacturers, all with widely of innovation, but their supply chains are stuck lasting products to reduce electronics waste and for just 1 percent of its manufacturing process, Both Apple and Huawei have built spe- varying specifications. Android app makers in the Industrial Age,” Gary Cook, a campaigner urging an overall rethink of its “take-make- compared with Apple, which relied on renew- cialist machine learning capabilities into the may fear it is not worth their time to write at Greenpeace USA, said in a statement. waste” business model. able energy for 96 percent of its operation. processors that power their phones, which specialist AI-enabled software for Huawei’s The report details the hidden cost behind The report highlighted that tech companies’ Samsung, the world’s largest maker of smart- could give third-party app developers all device alone, missing out on hundreds of what may be the most sought-after and cele- manufacturing processes are not as environ- phones and key component suppliers of many of over the world the chance to think up new millions of other potential customers in the brated consumer products in the 21st century: mentally friendly as their innovative images the tech companies featured in the report, saw uses for the technique. Android universe. Huawei is aware of the mobile computing devices like smartphones and might suggest. While the energy consumption in its greenhouse gas emissions rise 24 percent in “AI is no longer a virtual concept but risk, Yu told AFP. — AFP tablet computers. Since 2011, Greenpeace has the tech industry rose rapidly to fuel the supply 2016 from two years ago. — AP Established 1961 23 Health Wednesday, October 18, 2017 Neutron star smash-up the ‘discovery of a lifetime’ Evidence of this cosmic clash hurtled through space

PARIS: “Truly a eureka moment”, “Everything I onds later, a NASA satellite recorded a burst of gobsmacked when the spectrum lit up his ever hoped for”, “A dream come true” — gamma rays. screens. “I had never seen anything like it,” he Normally restrained scientists reached for the recalled. Scientists everywhere were stunned. stars Monday to describe the feelings that A true ‘eureka’ moment “This event was truly a eureka moment,” accompany a “once-in-a-lifetime” event. The This set off a mad dash to locate what was said Bangalore Sathyaprakash, head of the trigger for this meteor shower of superlatives almost certainly the single source for both. “It is Gravitational Physics Group at Cardiff was the smash-up of two unimaginably dense the first time that we’ve observed a cataclysmic University. “The 12 hours that followed are inar- neutron stars 130 million years ago, when T-rex astrophysical event in both gravitational and guably the most exciting of my scientific life.” still lorded over our planet. “There are rare occasions when a scientist Evidence of this cosmic clash hurtled has the chance to witness a new era at its through space and reached Earth on beginning — this is one such time,” said August 17 at exactly 12:41 GMT, setting in Elena Pian, an astronomer at the National motion a secret, sleepless, weeks-long Institute for Astrophysics in Rome. LIGO- blitzkrieg of star-gazing and number- The chance to affiliated astronomers at Caltech had spent crunching involving hundreds of telescopes decades preparing for the off chance — cal- and thousands of astronomers and astro- witness a new era culated at 80,000-to-one odds — of wit- physicists around the world. It was as if a nessing a neutron star merger. dormant network of super-spies simultane- at its beginning ously sprung into action. Don’t tell your friends The stellar smash-up made itself known “On that morning, all of our dreams came in two ways: it created ripples called gravi- true,” said Alan Weinstein, head of astro- tational waves in Einstein’s time-space continu- electromagnetic waves,” said LIGO executive physical data analysis for LIGO at Caltech. director David Reitze, a professor at the “This discovery was everything I always hoped um, and lit up the entire electromagnetic spec- This handout image obtained from the European Southern Observatory on October California Institute of Technology (Caltech) in for, packed into a single event,” added trum of light, from gamma rays to radio waves. 16, 2017 is an artist’s impression showing two tiny but very dense neutron stars at Pasadena Francesco Pannarale, an astrophysicist at Scientists had detected gravitational waves four the point at which they merge and explode as a kilonova. — AFP times before, a feat acknowledged with a Nobel Initial calculations had narrowed the zone to Cardiff University in Wales. For these and thou- Physics Prize earlier this month. But each of a patch of sky in the southern hemisphere sands of other scientists, GW170817 — the those events, generated by the collision of black spanning five or six galaxies, but frustrated neutron star burst’s tag — will become a “do Sutton, head of the gravitational physics group eral of the world’s leading journals. “There holes, lasted just a few seconds, and remained astronomers had to wait for nightfall to contin- you remember where you were?” kind of at Cardiff and a member of the LIGO team, was have been quite a few pints and glasses of invisible to Earth- and space-based telescopes. ue the search. Finally, at around 2200 GMT, a moment. stuck on a long-haul bus, struggling to down- wine or bubbly — privately, of course, The neutron star collision was different. It gen- telescope array in the northern desert of Chile “I was sitting in my dentist’s chair when I got load hundreds of emails crowding his inbox. because we haven’t been allowed to tell any- erated gravitational waves — picked up by two nailed it: the stellar merger had taken place in a the text message,” said Benoit Mours, an astro- Rumors swirled within and beyond the one,” Sutton told AFP. But he couldn’t resist US-based observatories known as LIGO, and galaxy known as NGC 4993. Stephen Smartt, physicist at France’s National Centre for astronomy community as scientists hastened telling his 12-year-old son, an aspiring physi- another one in Italy called Virgo — that lasted who led observations for the European Space Research and the French coordinator for Virgo. to prepare initial findings for publication cist. “He’s sworn to secrecy though. He’s not an astounding 100 seconds. Less than two sec- Observatory’s New Technology Telescope, was “I jumped up and rushed to my lab.” Patrick Monday in a dozen articles spread across sev- allowed to tell his friends.” — AFP

birth attendants, according to data from the United began rebuilding the healthcare system with assistance Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). It also made the most from international non-government organizations. But it ‘Servant’ midwives progress in the number of visits by pregnant women to was in 2005, as Cambodia battled one of the world’s high- healthcare providers. But while 89 percent of all births are est maternal mortality ratios, that the government now attended by skilled health personnel compared to just reviewed the midwife system and revamped the curricu- battle Cambodia’s a quarter in 2005, the maternal mortality rate is still higher lum, expanded training, increased pay and gave incentives, Smoking to be than a regional average of 127, with authorities keen to offering midwives $10 for a live birth at a hospital and $15 keep the impetus going. in a health centre. The government focused on bringing maternal deaths In the United Nations’ latest set of global targets, the more midwives into the system, training them and deploy- stubbed out on Sustainable Development Goals, world leaders pledged to ing them to rural areas where maternal and newborn PERAH ANDONG: After three deliveries, including a still- reduce the global maternal mortality ratio to less than 70 deaths were the highest. born, at her home in Perah Andong village in Cambodia, per 100,000 live births by 2030. Cambodian Health Thai beaches Yeng Sienghay gave birth to a healthy baby girl in the local Minister Mam Bunheng said from next year the govern- Social realities health centre about four months ago, overseen by three ment will offer women incentives of up to $200 for every Traditional birth attendants were encouraged to work midwives. Unlike her previous three pregnancies when baby they deliver at health centres with adequate numbers with trained midwives, and the midwives could take the BANGKOK: Smokers who flout a smoking ban on 20 of Yeng did not visit the health centre even once, this time of trained midwives. civil services exam for a higher qualification and pay Thailand’s most famous tourist beaches will face a around she went to the centre every month - and every “We have tried to eliminate economic barriers for the scale. “I became a midwife because my family encour- $3,000 fine or up to a year in prison, Thai authorities week in her eighth month - and diligently followed the poor, so they too can access safe reproductive services. aged me, and the government gave me a scholarship,” have said. The ban, which comes into force in midwife’s instructions. The gap between the rich and the poor has thus been said Heng Sokna, Yeng’s midwife. “Midwives are November, follows a clean-up of nearly 140,000 ciga- “From my own experience, I know there is more risk in reduced in healthcare services,” he said. “Our goal of respected by the community, and I feel useful helping rette butts from a 2.5 kilometer stretch of the famed having a baby at home with a traditional birth attendant,” increasing the strength and capacity of midwives means other women,” she said. Patong beach in Phuket island province. Its introduction said Yeng, 32, while nursing her newborn baby. “At the they are like civil servants now - well trained, well respect- In 2010, the government rolled out a Health Equity coincides with Thailand’s peak tourist season and will health centre, there are more qualified people and more ed and well paid,” Bunheng, a gynaecologist by training, Fund funded partly by aid agencies that enabled the poor be enforced in visitor hotspots including Krabi, Koh care for me and my baby.” Yeng is a poster child for the told the Thomson Reuters Foundation. to pay for services, including safe deliveries in health cen- Samui, Pattaya, Phuket and Phang Nga. advances Cambodia has made in reducing its maternal ters. Funded fully by the government now, it covers more “These beaches are among the most beautiful in mortality rate, once among the highest in the world, that Backbone than 3 million poor Cambodians, or about a fifth of the Southeast Asia, and the aim is to keep them that way,” has won midwives new respect in communities. Much of Cambodia’s progress to date has been attrib- population. The drive to reduce the maternal mortality rate Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Governor The Southeast Asian nation is one of only nine coun- uted to investments in health services that give the poor continues across the Asia-Pacific region as countries Yuthasak Supasorn said in a statement on Monday. tries to have achieved the United Nations’ Millennium access to quality healthcare services including reproduc- struggle to reduce deaths of women from complications Smokers will have to use designated areas with proper Development Goal to cut maternal death by at least 75 tive and maternal health, as well as an army of trained mid- related to pregnancy and childbirth due to social, cultural waste disposal for cigarette butts, he added. Those percent by 2015, having lowered its ratio by 84 percent wives in rural areas. The midwives “provide the backbone” and political realities. caught lighting up on the beach could face jail or a between 1990 and 2015. In 2005 Cambodia had a mater- to the health workforce for mothers and their children, said An estimated 85,000 mothers died in 2015 from child- 100,000 baht ($3,000) fine, according to TAT. The nal mortality ratio of 472 deaths to every 100,000 live Lene Christiansen, UNFPA’s Cambodia representative. birth in the region, UN figures show. The 2014 State of the edict is the latest effort to rein in Thailand’s free-wheel- births, but by 2010 this had more than halved to 206 and is Cambodia’s health care system was rebuilt entirely after World’s Midwifery report estimated well-trained midwives ing tourism industry. The sector is a crucial pillar of now 161, according to UN data. the destruction of facilities and personnel by the Khmer could help avert about two-thirds of all maternal and new- Thailand’s economy, catering to more than 30 million This improvement came as Cambodia made more Rouge regime in the 1970s. born deaths, with UNFPA now supporting midwifery pro- travelers per year.—AFP progress than about 60 other developing countries over a Following the 1993 national elections, the government grams in more than 100 countries. — Reuters 10-year period in increasing the poor’s access to skilled 24 Established 1961 WHAT’S ON Wednesday, October 18, 2017 Al-Mulla Exchange celebrates 149th and 150th shows in style

Al-Mulla Exchange crossed a milestone when they conducted their 149th and 150th show at American International School in Maidan Hawally. To celebrate this momentous occasion, Al-Mulla Exchange arranged to enthrall customers with the music and songs of the Bollywood yesteryears often referred to as the golden years in Hindi music. To render the famous songs, Al-Mulla Exchange got to Kuwait Kavitha Paduval, the daughter of acclaimed film playback singer Anuradha Paduwal. Accompanying her were the singers Ansh Menon and Srikanth Nair. The show which was aptly titled “Ajeeb Dastan Hai Yeh” transported customers to old memo- ries and they relished the nostalgia of the famous songs being rendered. The 149th show on Friday October 13th was in the presence of the Chief Guest Samir Patel, CEO of Commercial Real Estate Company KSCP. The Chief Guest on Saturday October 14th was Kapil Kumar, Head of Project Finance at National Bank of Kuwait. The musical concert played to a full audience on both the days. “Al-Mulla Exchange always provides the music lovers the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful songs. We feel very engaged with Al-Mulla Exchange,” said some attendees thanking Al-Mulla Exchange Company for organizing such programs.

NAFO-Kuwait celebrates ‘Onam 2017’

GDES student artwork qualifies National Forum (NAFO-Kuwait) celebrated “Onam 2017” on Friday at the Indian for semifinals of 2017 Adobe Community School, Khaitan. The celebrations kicked off at 10.30am with the lighting of lamp by guest of honor Kavalam Sreekumar, NAFO Design Achievement awards officials and senior ladies of NAFO. A meticu- lously crafted Onapookalam by NAFO families Artwork created by a student from the acclaimed global design institutions, such set the perfect start for the festivities on Onam American University of Kuwait (AUK) has as the International Design Council. day early morning itself. qualified for the semifinals of the 2017 Ofan’s collection of posters, which she The function started off with national Adobe Design Achievement Awards. collectively called Gulf Culture, has been anthems, followed by a prayer song by Sreela Shaikha Al-Ofan, a student in the selected and displayed at the 2017 AUK Raviprasad and Sreeranjini Ajay. Acting Department of Art and Graphic Design at President’s Art Exhibition. General Secretary of NAFO, Anish Nair, by AUK, was selected as one of the 642 briefly indicating the significance of Onam, semifinalists, out of a total of 2444 welcomed the gathering. Sibi US, Second entrants, who have had their artwork Secretary (Labor) from Indian Embassy was enter the semifinals. the chief guest. The event was attended by sev- Al-Ofan’s submission to the competi- eral prominent dignitaries, delegates of co- tion featured a set of three posters, each representing her interpretations of organizations, members of media fraternity and imagery traditionally associated with the NAFO well-wishers. Gulf region, which she created in a Digital The day’s cultural programs commenced Imaging course offered by Professor Joo with a graceful ‘Thiruvathirakali’ by NAFO Won Lee, Assistant Professor of Art and Ladies’, with allusive gestures and rhythmic Graphic Design. “I have always believed footwork and under the background of lyrical Board member, B S Pillai, Ladies’ Wing Chief contributions to NAFO. in the great artistic potential of our stu- music, choreographed by Preethi Rajeev cap- Coordinator, Jayalakshmi Promod - all of them Elegant compering by Anamika Anilkumar dents. This achievement is a proof of my tured the whole audience. Unique musical in their felicitation messages highlighted the flawlessly guided the gathering from the begin- belief. I look forward to the continued event ‘Ragamanjari’ by acclaimed classical joyful feelings, memories and timely relevance ning to the end. NAFO Vice-President and maximization of the potentials for our singer Kavalam Sreekumar was the highlight of of NAFO activities to attain a world of equality event co-convener, Sreekumar Pillai, proposed students’ further success,” Lee the celebrations. and social justice following the foot path of vote of thanks. A delicious Onasadya which expressed. Chief Guest, Sibi US, in his inaugural Acharya Bharatha Kesari Mannathu was served to all attendees. The Adobe Design Achievement address congratulated and thanked NAFO for Padmanabhan. The afternoon session of events was contin- Awards is considered to be one of the organizing such events of heritage, such as Kavalam Sreekumar was honored with a ued with group dance, group songs, solo most leading digital design competitions, Onam, aimed at nurturing unity and harmony ponnada and a NAFO memento. Chief guest dances, solo songs and brilliant instrumental and it is organized by Adobe Systems among the community beyond region and reli- Sibi was honored by presenting a memento as music by talented NAFO kids, and elders Incorporated and sponsored by gion. NAFO President, ON Nandakumar, in his a gesture of respect for his commendable con- added contemporary flavor to the cultural message mentioned the importance of Onam tributions rendered to Indian diaspora within events. The program committee headed by celebration in humanizing love and brother- the short span of his diplomatic services in TKV Pradeepkumar (Convenor), Promod hood beyond caste, creed or religion. He Kuwait. The platform of this year’s Onam func- Menon and Sreekumar Pillai (Co-conveners) informed the gathering about NAFO’s recent tion also witnessed bidding of farewell of two professionally coordinated the event with the socio-welfare activities supporting the poor NAFO senior members, P K Sasidharan and support of NAFO Advisory Board, Executive and needy community members in Kuwait and Radhakrishnan Thampy who were presented Committee, Ladies’ Wing and General India. NAFO Patron, Vijay Karayil, Advisory with mementos as an admiration of valuable Committee. The event concluded at 03:30 pm.

Embassy of India’s holiday notice

The Indian Embassy shall remain closed on Thursday, October 19, 2017 on the occasion of the festival of ‘Deepavali’. However, emergency consular services will be rendered by the Mission. Established 1961 25 TV Wednesday, October 18, 2017

22:00 Tosh.0 01:35 Calimero 12:00 E! News 17:40 Mountain Men 15:48 SpongeBob SquarePants 04:45 Ploddy Police Car 22:25 Tosh.0 01:50 Henry Hugglemonster 12:15 Keeping Up With The 18:30 Swamp People 16:12 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 06:20 Song Of The Sea 22:50 Real Husbands Of Hollywood 02:05 Art Attack Kardashians 19:20 Mountain Men 16:36 The Loud House 08:00 Tom And Jerry: Back To Oz 23:15 South Park 02:30 Henry Hugglemonster 13:10 Keeping Up With The 20:10 Counting Cars 17:00 Sanjay And Craig 09:30 Freddy Frogface 23:40 The Daily Show With Trevor 02:40 Loopdidoo Kardashians 20:35 Counting Cars 17:24 Harvey Beaks 11:00 Big Baby 00:05 Green Street 3: Never Back Noah 02:55 Henry Hugglemonster 14:05 Keeping Up With The 21:00 Counting Cars 17:48 Hunter Street 12:30 Memory Loss Down 03:10 Art Attack Kardashians 21:25 Counting Cars 18:12 Henry Danger 14:00 Ploddy Police Car 01:40 Snake Eyes 03:35 Loopdidoo 15:00 E! News 21:50 Forged In Fire 18:36 Nicky, Ricky, Dicky & Dawn 15:35 Last Wizard 03:20 Armageddon America 03:50 Calimero 15:15 E! News: Daily Pop 22:40 Forged In Fire 19:00 School Of Rock 17:05 Freddy Frogface 04:50 The Rock 04:05 Art Attack 17:10 WAGs Miami 23:30 Mountain Men 19:24 Game Shakers 18:35 The Fairy Tales Tree 07:05 Sherlock Holmes 04:30 Henry Hugglemonster 18:05 WAGs Miami 19:48 The Thundermans 20:05 The Incredible Adventures Of 09:15 Echo Effect 04:45 Henry Hugglemonster 19:00 E! News 20:12 SpongeBob SquarePants Professor Branestawm 10:45 Road Wars 00:30 Lost & Found With Mike & 05:00 Art Attack 20:00 Botched 20:36 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 21:20 Last Wizard 12:15 The Rock Jesse 05:30 Henry Hugglemonster 21:00 Botched 21:00 The Loud House 22:50 Tom And Jerry: Back To Oz 14:30 Sherlock Holmes 01:20 Penn & Teller Tell A Lie 05:45 Loopdidoo 22:00 Botched 21:24 Sanjay And Craig 16:40 X-Men: First Class 02:10 World’s Top 5 06:00 Henry Hugglemonster 23:00 E! News 21:48 Rabbids Invasion 18:50 Larceny 03:00 Ultimate Survival 06:15 Calimero 23:15 Keeping Up With The 00:45 The Shelbourne 22:12 Breadwinners 20:20 Blackhat 03:50 Kids Do The Craziest Things 06:30 Loopdidoo Kardashians 01:10 Chocolate Covered 22:36 Harvey Beaks 22:30 The Green Inferno 04:40 How It’s Made 06:45 Henry Hugglemonster 01:40 Gok’s Chinese Takeaway 23:00 SpongeBob SquarePants 05:30 Lost & Found With Mike & 07:00 Sofia The First 02:35 Carnival Eats 23:24 SpongeBob SquarePants 01:10 Mystic River Jesse 07:30 Puppy Dog Pals 03:00 Eat Street 23:48 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 03:30 Calendar Girls 06:20 Mythbusters 08:00 Mickey And The Roadster 03:30 Miguel’s Tropical Kitchen 05:40 Before We Go 07:00 Lost & Found With Mike & Racers 03:55 Miguel’s Tropical Kitchen 07:20 Die Hard Jesse 08:30 Doc McStuffins 00:00 Diners, Drive-Ins And Dives 04:25 Chocolate Covered 09:35 Spotlight 07:50 Storm Chasers 09:00 PJ Masks 00:30 Diners, Drive-Ins And Dives 04:50 Chocolate Covered 11:45 Hanging Up 00:45 Treehouse Masters 08:40 How It’s Made 09:30 Miles From Tomorrow 01:00 Man Fire Food 05:20 Tom’s Istanbul Delight 13:20 Spectre 01:40 Rugged Justice 09:30 Mythbusters 10:00 Goldie & Bear 01:30 Man Fire Food 05:45 Rustic Adventures Italy 00:01 Max & Ruby 15:50 Last Action Hero 02:35 Dark Days In Monkey City 10:20 Ultimate Survival 10:30 Mickey And The Roadster 02:00 Diners, Drive-Ins And Dives 06:15 Around The World In 80 00:23 Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom 18:00 A.I. Artificial Intelligence 03:25 Pit Bulls & Parolees 11:10 What Happened Next? Racers 02:30 Diners, Drive-Ins And Dives Dishes 00:33 Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom 20:25 Fast & Furious 7 04:15 The Lion Queen 12:00 Incredible Food Race 11:00 PJ Masks 03:00 Man Fire Food 07:10 Gok’s Chinese Takeaway 00:44 The Day Henry Met 22:45 Primal Fear 05:02 Wildest Islands Of Indonesia 12:50 How It’s Made 11:30 My Friends Tigger & Pooh 03:30 Man Fire Food 08:05 Carnival Eats 00:49 The Day Henry Met 05:49 Lone Star Law 13:40 Mythbusters 12:00 Puppy Dog Pals 04:00 Chopped 08:30 Eat Street 00:55 Blaze And The Monster 06:36 Night 14:30 Lost & Found With Mike & 12:30 Sofia The First 05:00 Guy’s Grocery Games 09:00 Miguel’s Tropical Kitchen Machines 07:00 Night Jesse 13:00 Jake And The Never Land 06:00 Barefoot Contessa: Back To 09:25 Miguel’s Tropical Kitchen 01:17 Blaze And The Monster 07:25 Dark Days In Monkey City 15:20 Storm Chasers Pirates Basics 09:55 Chocolate Covered Machines 07:50 Dark Days In Monkey City 16:10 Ultimate Survival 13:30 PJ Masks 06:25 Barefoot Contessa: Back To 10:20 Chocolate Covered 01:40 Zack & Quack 00:30 How Do They Do It? 08:15 Treehouse Masters 17:00 What Happened Next? 14:00 My Friends Tigger & Pooh Basics 10:50 Tom’s Istanbul Delight 02:01 Shimmer And Shine 00:55 Food Factory 09:10 Rugged Justice 17:50 Incredible Food Race 14:30 Doc McStuffins 06:50 Anna Olson: Fresh 11:15 Rustic Adventures Italy 02:23 Olive The Ostrich 01:20 Through The Wormhole With 10:05 Wildest Islands Of Indonesia 18:40 Mythbusters 15:00 Puppy Dog Pals 07:15 The Kitchen 11:45 Around The World In 80 02:28 Olive The Ostrich Morgan Freeman 11:00 Dark Days In Monkey City 19:30 How It’s Made 15:30 Mickey And The Roadster 08:05 The Pioneer Woman Dishes 02:34 Paw Patrol 02:10 Rise Of The Machines 11:28 Dark Days In Monkey City 20:20 Kids Do The Craziest Things Racers 08:30 The Pioneer Woman 12:40 Croatia’s Finest 02:57 Little Charmers 03:00 Da Vinci’s Machines 11:55 Pit Bulls & Parolees 21:10 What Happened Next? 16:00 Sofia The First 08:55 Siba’s Table 13:05 Croatia’s Finest 03:09 Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom 03:48 Mythbusters 12:50 The Lion Queen 22:00 Animal Nation With Anthony 16:30 Doc McStuffins 09:25 Siba’s Table 13:35 Carnival Eats 03:21 Dora The Explorer 04:36 How Do They Do It? 13:45 Rugged Justice Anderson 17:00 PJ Masks 09:55 Cooking For Real 14:00 Eat Street 03:43 Max & Ruby 05:00 Food Factory 14:40 Wildest Islands Of Indonesia 22:50 Ultimate Survival 17:25 Puppy Dog Pals 10:25 Cooking For Real 14:30 Miguel’s Tropical Kitchen 04:04 The Day Henry Met 05:24 Through The Wormhole With 15:35 Lone Star Law 23:40 Storm Chasers 17:55 Sofia The First 10:55 The Kitchen 14:55 Miguel’s Tropical Kitchen 04:11 Nella The Princess Knight Morgan Freeman 16:30 Treehouse Masters 18:25 Mickey And The Roadster 11:45 Bake With Anna Olson 15:25 Chocolate Covered 04:34 Shimmer And Shine 06:12 Rise Of The Machines 17:25 Dr. Jeff: Rocky Mountain Vet Racers 12:10 The Pioneer Woman 15:50 Angelo’s Outdoor Kitchen 04:58 Wallykazam! 07:00 How Do They Do It? 18:20 Animal 911: Los Angeles 18:55 PJ Masks 12:35 The Pioneer Woman 16:20 Patisserie With Michel Roux 05:21 Zack & Quack 07:26 Da Vinci’s Machines 19:15 Rugged Justice 19:25 The Lion Guard 13:00 Siba’s Table Jr 05:32 The Day Henry Met 08:14 Mythbusters 20:10 Escape To Chimp Eden 19:55 Doc McStuffins 13:30 Siba’s Table 17:15 Around The World In 80 05:38 Blaze And The Monster 09:02 Rise Of The Machines 20:38 Escape To Chimp Eden 20:25 Doc McStuffins 14:00 Diners, Drive-Ins And Dives Dishes Machines 09:50 How Do They Do It? 21:05 Dr. Jeff: Rocky Mountain Vet 20:45 Jake And The Never Land 14:30 Diners, Drive-Ins And Dives 18:10 My Pacific Quest 06:00 Rusty Rivets 10:14 Food Factory 22:00 Animal 911: Los Angeles 00:30 Ghost Asylum Pirates 15:00 Chopped 19:05 Chocolate Covered 06:12 Paw Patrol 10:38 Through The Wormhole With 22:55 Wildest Islands 01:20 Chandra Levy: An American 21:15 Mickey Mouse Clubhouse 16:00 The Kitchen 19:30 Angelo’s Outdoor Kitchen 06:37 Dora The Explorer Morgan Freeman 23:50 Lone Star Law Murder Mystery 21:45 Doc McStuffins 17:00 Reza, Spice Prince Of India 20:00 Patisserie With Michel Roux 07:00 Zack & Quack 11:26 Da Vinci’s Machines 02:10 True Nightmares 22:15 Goldie & Bear 17:30 Reza, Spice Prince Of India Jr 07:21 Bubble Guppies 12:14 Mythbusters 03:00 Forbidden: Dying For Love 22:45 Puppy Dog Pals 18:00 Chopped 21:00 Around The World In 80 07:44 Blaze And The Monster 13:02 How Do They Do It? 03:48 Disappeared 23:15 PJ Masks 19:00 Halloween Wars Dishes Machines 13:26 Food Factory 04:36 California Investigator 23:45 Loopdidoo 20:00 Chopped 22:00 My Pacific Quest 08:07 Paw Patrol 13:50 Rise Of The Machines 05:01 California Investigator 21:00 Bakers vs. Fakers 22:55 Croatia’s Finest 08:30 Shimmer And Shine 14:38 Da Vinci’s Machines 05:24 I Almost Got Away With It 22:00 Diners, Drive-Ins And Dives 23:20 Croatia’s Finest 08:53 Nella The Princess Knight 15:26 Through The Wormhole With 01:00 New Tricks 06:12 Southern Fried Homicide 22:30 Diners, Drive-Ins And Dives 23:50 Carnival Eats 09:15 The Day Henry Met Morgan Freeman 02:00 The Coroner 07:00 Disappeared 23:00 Chopped 09:22 Paw Patrol 16:14 Mythbusters 02:45 Silent Witness 07:50 California Investigator 09:45 Rusty Rivets 17:02 Rise Of The Machines 03:45 Holby City 08:15 California Investigator 09:57 Wallykazam! 17:50 Da Vinci’s Machines 04:40 New Tricks 08:40 I Almost Got Away With It 00:20 Street Customs 2008 10:20 Fresh Beat Band Of Spies 18:40 Mythbusters 05:30 Doctors 09:30 Southern Fried Homicide 01:05 Ed Stafford: Left For Dead 10:42 Zack & Quack 19:30 Hacking The Wild 06:00 EastEnders 10:20 Obsession: Dark Desires 01:50 Bear Grylls: Mission Survive 10:52 Team Umizoomi 20:20 How Do They Do It? 06:30 Father Brown 11:10 Disappeared 02:35 Boy To Man 00:10 Guess This House 00:10 Big Fish, Texas 11:15 Shimmer And Shine 20:45 Food Factory 07:25 Stella 12:00 Disappeared 03:20 Fast N’ Loud 01:00 Emmerdale 01:00 Wicked Tuna 11:39 Shimmer And Shine 21:10 Rise Of The Machines 08:10 Holby City 12:50 California Investigator 04:05 Treasure Quest: Snake Island 01:30 Coronation Street 02:00 Air Crash Investigation 12:01 Max & Ruby 22:00 Hacking The Wild 09:10 Holby City 13:15 California Investigator 04:50 Alaska: The Last Frontier 02:00 Coronation Street 03:00 Seconds From Disaster 12:25 Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom 22:50 Da Vinci’s Machines 10:10 Father Brown 13:40 I Almost Got Away With It 05:35 How Do They Do It? 02:25 Paul O’Grady: For The Love 03:30 Seconds From Disaster 12:47 The Day Henry Met 23:40 Mythbusters 11:00 The Coroner 14:30 Southern Fried Homicide 06:00 Outback Truckers Of Dogs 04:00 Big Fish, Texas 12:57 Blaze And The Monster 11:50 Stella 15:20 Obsession: Dark Desires 06:45 Street Customs 2008 02:50 Catchphrase 05:00 Sea Patrol Machines 12:40 New Tricks 16:10 Grave Secrets 07:30 Fast N’ Loud 03:25 Doc Martin 06:00 Incredibly Small World 13:41 Zack & Quack 13:35 Holby City 17:00 Disappeared 08:15 Treasure Quest: Snake Island 04:20 The Jonathan Ross Show 07:00 Dog Whisperer 14:03 Shimmer And Shine 14:30 Father Brown 17:50 California Investigator 09:00 Garage Gold 05:15 Couples Come Dine With Me 08:00 Exploring Malaysia 14:25 Olive The Ostrich 15:20 Stella 18:15 California Investigator 09:25 How Do They Do It? 06:10 Guess This House 08:30 Exploring Malaysia 14:30 Olive The Ostrich 16:10 New Tricks 18:40 I Almost Got Away With It 10:10 Ed Stafford: Left For Dead 07:00 Paul O’Grady: For The Love 09:00 Sea Patrol 14:35 Paw Patrol 01:15 Starsky & Hutch 17:10 The Coroner 19:30 Southern Fried Homicide 10:55 Bear Grylls: Mission Survive Of Dogs 10:00 Nazi World War Weird 14:58 Little Charmers 03:00 Pretty Woman 18:00 Doctors 20:20 Obsession: Dark Desires 11:40 Boy To Man 07:25 Catchphrase 11:00 Chilean Miners: Buried Alive 15:10 Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom 05:00 Being Flynn 18:30 EastEnders 21:10 Murder Calls 12:25 How Do They Do It? 08:00 Doc Martin 12:00 The 2000’s Greatest 15:22 Dora The Explorer 06:45 Whale Rider 19:00 Father Brown 22:00 Murder Calls 12:47 Garage Gold 09:00 The Jonathan Ross Show Tragedies 15:44 Max & Ruby 08:30 Jane Eyre 20:00 Poldark 22:50 I Am Homicide 13:10 Alaska: The Last Frontier 10:00 Couples Come Dine With Me 13:00 Incredibly Small World 16:06 The Day Henry Met 10:45 The Good Shepherd 20:55 Last Tango In Halifax: 23:40 Ghost Brothers 13:55 Treasure Quest: Snake Island 10:55 Guess This House 14:00 Dog Whisperer 16:11 Nella The Princess Knight 13:00 Paper Planes Christmas Special 14:40 Outback Truckers 11:45 Paul O’Grady: For The Love 15:00 Dog Whisperer 16:35 Shimmer And Shine 14:45 Starsky & Hutch 21:50 Born To Kill 15:25 Fast N’ Loud Of Dogs 16:00 Positive Energy 16:59 Wallykazam! 16:30 One Day 22:40 Maigret 16:10 Street Customs 2008 12:10 Catchphrase 17:00 Witness: Disaster In Japan 17:21 Zack & Quack 18:15 A Long Way Down 17:00 How Do They Do It? 12:45 Emmerdale 18:00 The Next Mega Tsunami 17:32 The Day Henry Met 20:00 First Snow 17:50 Garage Gold 13:15 Coronation Street 19:00 Taboo Compilations 17:38 Blaze And The Monster 22:00 Gangs Of New York 18:20 Garage Gold 13:45 Coronation Street 20:00 Positive Energy Machines 18:50 Treasure Quest: Snake Island 14:15 Guess This House 20:50 Witness: Disaster In Japan 18:00 Rusty Rivets 19:40 How Do They Do It? 15:10 The Chase 21:40 The Next Mega Tsunami 18:13 Paw Patrol 00:00 Hank Zipzer 21:00 Strip The City 16:00 Midsomer Murders 22:30 Taboo Compilations 18:37 Dora The Explorer 00:00 The Jail Atlanta: 60 Days In 00:25 Alex & Co. 21:50 Abandoned Engineering 17:50 Couples Come Dine With Me 23:20 Dog Whisperer 19:00 Zack & Quack 01:00 It Takes A Killer 00:45 The Hive 22:40 Breaking Magic 18:45 Emmerdale 19:21 Bubble Guppies 00:00 Grey’s Anatomy 02:00 The First 48 00:50 Evermoor Chronicles 23:30 Fast N’ Loud 19:15 Coronation Street 19:44 Blaze And The Monster 03:00 Fashion Star 03:00 Evil Up Close 01:15 Sabrina Secrets Of A Teenage 19:45 Coronation Street Machines 04:00 Three 04:00 The Jail Atlanta: 60 Days In Witch 20:10 The Chase 20:07 Paw Patrol 05:00 MAFS: The First Year 05:00 It Takes A Killer 02:05 Binny And The Ghost 21:00 Midsomer Murders 20:30 Shimmer And Shine 06:00 Grey’s Anatomy 06:00 Cold Case Files 02:55 Hank Zipzer 22:50 Emmerdale 20:53 Nella The Princess Knight 09:00 Fashion Star 07:00 Crime Stories 03:15 The Hive 23:15 Coronation Street 21:15 The Day Henry Met 10:00 Three 08:00 It Takes A Killer 03:20 Hank Zipzer 23:40 Coronation Street 21:22 Paw Patrol 11:00 MAFS: The First Year 09:00 Homicide Hunter 03:45 Alex & Co. 06:00 Disney11 00:20 Super Predators 21:45 Rusty Rivets 12:00 Grey’s Anatomy 10:00 Cold Case Files 04:10 Alex & Co. 06:25 Supa Strikas 01:10 Monster Fish 21:57 Wallykazam! 15:00 Fashion Star 14:00 It Takes A Killer 04:35 Sabrina Secrets Of A Teenage 06:50 Marvel’s Spider-Man 02:00 The Lakeshore Killers 22:20 Fresh Beat Band Of Spies 16:00 Three 15:00 Crime Stories Witch 07:15 Right NOW Kapow 02:50 Monster Fish 22:42 Zack & Quack 17:00 MAFS: The First Year 16:00 The First 48 05:25 Binny And The Ghost 07:40 Mech-X4 03:45 Man v. Animal 22:52 Team Umizoomi 18:00 Cedar Cove 18:00 Crimes That Shook Australia 05:45 The Hive 08:05 Star Wars: The Freemaker 00:00 Decoding The Past 04:10 Man v. Animal 23:15 Shimmer And Shine 21:00 Fashion Star 19:00 It Takes A Killer 05:50 Rolling With The Ronks S1 Adventures 01:00 Patton 360 04:40 K-9 Border Wars 22:00 Three 20:00 Homicide Hunter Splits 08:10 Gamer’s Guide To Pretty 02:00 The Universe: Ancient 05:35 The Lakeshore Killers 23:00 MAFS: The First Year 21:00 Crime Stories 06:00 Jessie Much Everything Mysteries Solved 06:30 Monster Fish 22:00 My Haunted House 06:25 Liv And Maddie 08:35 Gamer’s Guide To Pretty 02:50 Ancient Aliens 07:25 Man v. Animal 23:00 Leah Remini: Scientology And 06:50 Tsum Tsum Shorts Much Everything 03:40 Ancient Aliens 07:50 Man v. Animal The Aftermath 06:55 The Zhuzhus S1 09:00 Supa Strikas 04:30 Pirate Treasure Of The 08:20 K-9 Border Wars 07:20 Elena Of Avalor 09:25 Supa Strikas Knights Templar 09:15 Squid vs. Whale 01:00 Pirates Of The Caribbean 2: 07:45 Bunk’d 09:50 Walk The Prank 05:20 Decoding The Past 10:10 The Monster Project Dead Man’s Chest 08:10 Stuck In The Middle 10:20 Walk The Prank 06:10 The Universe 11:05 Savage Kingdom 03:30 Jem And The Holograms 00:20 Diagnose Me 08:35 Miraculous Tales Of 10:45 Gravity Falls 07:00 Patton 360 12:00 Wild Case Files 05:30 The Sorcerer’s Apprentice 01:05 An Hour To Save Your Life 00:05 Hannibal Buress: Animal Ladybug... 11:10 Gravity Falls 08:00 The Universe: Ancient 12:55 Grizzly Empire 07:20 Kronk’s New Groove 01:50 Monsters Inside Me Furnace 09:00 Miraculous Tales Of 11:35 Lab Rats Mysteries Solved 13:50 Monster Fish 08:40 The Rescuers 02:35 The Undateables 00:45 Rufus Hound: Being Rude Ladybug... 12:00 Lab Rats 09:00 Ancient Aliens 14:45 Animals Of The Year 10:00 The Parent Trap 03:20 Little People, Big World 01:45 Inside Amy Schumer 09:25 Lolirock 12:30 Phineas And Ferb 10:00 Ancient Aliens 15:40 K-9 Border Wars 12:10 The Sorcerer’s Apprentice 04:05 Toddlers & Tiaras 02:10 Another Period 09:50 Lolirock 12:55 Phineas And Ferb 11:00 Engineering Disasters 16:35 Boss Croc 14:00 The Rescuers 04:50 Ultimate Shopper 02:35 South Park 10:15 Sabrina Secrets Of A Teenage 13:20 Zeke And Luther 12:00 Decoding The Past 17:30 The Monster Project 15:20 The Wild 05:35 Say Yes To The Dress: 03:00 The Daily Show With Trevor Witch 13:45 Zeke And Luther 13:00 Patton 360 18:25 Savage Kingdom 16:45 Hannah Montana Movie Bridesmaids Noah 10:40 Sabrina Secrets Of A Teenage 14:10 Disney Mickey Mouse 14:00 The Universe: Ancient 19:20 Animals Of The Year 18:30 Pirates Of The Caribbean: At 06:00 Obsessive Compulsive 03:25 Inside Amy Schumer Witch 14:15 Gamer’s Guide To Pretty Mysteries Solved 20:10 K-9 Border Wars World’s End Cleaners 03:50 Another Period 11:05 Hank Zipzer Much Everything 15:00 Ancient Aliens 21:00 Boss Croc 21:15 The Muppets 06:45 Oprah: Where Are They 04:15 Kroll Show 11:30 Alex & Co. 14:40 Gravity Falls 16:00 Ancient Aliens 21:50 The Monster Project 23:00 The Wild Now? 04:40 Nathan For You 11:55 Alex & Co. 15:05 Lab Rats 17:00 The Universe 22:40 Savage Kingdom 08:15 Little People, Big World 05:05 Tosh.0 12:20 Lolirock 15:30 Milo Murphy’s Law 18:00 Decoding The Past 23:30 Wild Case Files 09:00 Cake Boss 05:30 Disaster Date 12:45 Lolirock 15:55 Right NOW Kapow 19:00 Patton 360 09:25 Toddlers & Tiaras 05:55 Ridiculousness Arabia 13:10 Miraculous Tales Of 16:25 Walk The Prank 20:00 The Universe: Ancient 10:10 Obsessive Compulsive 06:20 Urban Tarzan Ladybug... 16:50 Penn Zero: Part Time Hero Mysteries Solved Cleaners 06:50 Urban Tarzan 13:35 Miraculous Tales Of 17:15 Mech-X4 21:00 Ancient Aliens 01:30 Spanglish 10:55 Separated At Birth 07:15 Impractical Jokers IX Special Ladybug... 17:40 Marvel’s Spider-Man 22:00 How The States Got Their 03:45 Mr. Deeds 11:40 Outdaughtered: Busby Quints NCAA March Madness 14:00 K.C. Undercover 18:05 Supa Strikas Shapes 00:12 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 05:25 Turner & Hooch 12:25 The Undateables 07:40 Impractical Jokers IX 14:25 K.C. Undercover 18:30 Star Wars: The Freemaker 22:30 How The States Got Their 00:36 Rabbids Invasion 07:10 Life Or Something Like It 13:10 Say Yes To The Dress UK Special:¬†the Pros Weigh In 14:50 Bizaardvark Adventures Shapes 01:00 Rabbids Invasion 09:00 Mr. Deeds 13:55 Toddlers & Tiaras 08:05 The Jim Gaffigan Show 15:15 Elena Of Avalor 18:35 Disney11 23:00 Pirate Treasure Of The 01:24 Sanjay And Craig 10:45 Turner & Hooch 14:40 Little People, Big World 08:30 I Live With Models 15:40 Stuck In The Middle 19:00 Penn Zero: Part Time Hero Knights Templar 01:48 Sanjay And Craig 12:35 Life Or Something Like It 15:25 The Undateables 08:55 Workaholics 16:05 Liv And Maddie 19:25 Right NOW Kapow 02:12 Winx Club 14:30 Sister Act 2: Back In The Habit 16:10 Love At First Swipe 09:20 Kroll Show 16:30 Bizaardvark 19:50 Marvel’s Rocket And Groot 02:36 Winx Club 16:25 The Guilt Trip 16:35 Cake Boss 09:45 Nathan For You 16:35 Bunk’d 19:55 Mech-X4 03:00 Harvey Beaks 18:10 Ride Along 2 17:00 Oprah: Where Are They 10:10 Tosh.0 17:00 K.C. Undercover 20:20 Walk The Prank 03:24 Harvey Beaks 20:00 Pitch Perfect 2 Now? 10:35 Urban Tarzan 17:25 Miraculous Tales Of 20:45 Gamer’s Guide To Pretty 03:48 The Loud House 22:00 How To Be Single 17:50 Obsessive Compulsive 11:25 Disaster Date Ladybug... Much Everything 04:12 The Loud House 23:55 Are You Here Cleaners 11:50 Ridiculousness Arabia 17:50 Girl Meets World 21:10 Gravity Falls 00:20 Mountain Men 04:36 Breadwinners 18:50 Ultimate Shopper 12:15 Impractical Jokers 18:15 Star Wars Forces Of Destiny 21:35 Marvel’s Rocket And Groot 01:10 Forged: Iron & Fire 05:24 Get Blake 19:40 Say Yes To The Dress: 12:40 Impractical Jokers IX Special 18:20 Bizaardvark 21:40 Disney Mickey Mouse 01:35 Milwaukee Blacksmith 05:48 SpongeBob SquarePants Bridesmaids NCAA March Madness 18:45 Descendants 2 21:45 Lab Rats Elite Force 02:00 Mountain Men 06:12 SpongeBob SquarePants 20:10 Cake Boss 13:05 Impractical Jokers IX 20:35 K.C. Undercover 22:10 Lab Rats Elite Force 02:45 Pawn Stars 06:36 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 21:00 My 600lb Life: Where Are Special:¬†the Pros Weigh In 21:00 K.C. Undercover 22:35 Phineas & Ferb 03:15 American Pickers 07:00 The Loud House 00:30 A Late Quartet They Now? 13:30 Nathan For You 21:25 Miraculous Tales Of 23:00 Programmes Start At 6:00am 04:05 Pawn Stars 07:24 Rabbids Invasion 02:25 Waking Life 21:50 Botched Up Bodies 13:55 The Jim Gaffigan Show Ladybug... KSA 04:30 Pawn Stars 07:48 Get Blake 04:20 Yosemite 22:40 Bizarre ER 14:20 I Live With Models 21:50 Sunny Bunnies 05:00 Swamp People 08:12 Harvey Beaks 05:55 The Education Of Little Tree 23:30 90 Days To Wed 14:45 Workaholics 21:55 Miraculous Tales Of 06:00 Leepu And Pitbull 08:36 Sanjay And Craig 08:00 Steve Jobs: The Man In The 15:10 Friends Ladybug... 06:50 Duck Dynasty 09:00 Rank The Prank Machine 15:35 Disaster Date 22:20 Alex & Co. 07:15 Duck Dynasty 09:24 Henry Danger 10:15 Waking Life 16:00 Ridiculousness Arabia 22:45 Lolirock 07:40 Counting Cars 09:48 100 Things To Do Before High 12:05 Never Let Me Go 16:30 Impractical Jokers 23:05 Disney Mickey Mouse 00:10 WAGs Miami 08:05 Counting Cars School 13:55 Me And Earl And The Dying 16:55 Workaholics 23:10 Sabrina Secrets Of A Teenage 01:00 WAGs Miami 08:30 Pawn Stars 10:12 Game Shakers Girl 00:00 Most Terrifying Places In 17:20 I Live With Models Witch 01:50 E! News 08:55 Pawn Stars 10:36 Regal Academy 15:45 The Beat Beneath My Feet America 17:45 Disaster Date 23:35 Binny And The Ghost 02:50 Celebrity Style Story 09:20 Aussie Pickers 11:00 Winx Club 17:25 Operation Avalanche 00:30 Most Terrifying Places In 18:10 The Jim Gaffigan Show 03:20 Celebrity Style Story 10:10 Ax Men 11:24 SpongeBob SquarePants 19:05 Waiting For Superman America 18:35 Impractical Jokers IX Special 03:50 So Cosmo 11:00 Car Hunters 11:48 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 21:05 Never Let Me Go 01:00 Mysteries At The Museum NCAA March Madness 04:40 So Cosmo 11:25 Car Hunters 12:12 The Loud House 22:55 Correspondence 02:00 Bizarre Foods With Andrew 19:00 Impractical Jokers IX 05:30 Celebrity Style Story 11:50 Duck Dynasty 12:36 Rabbids Invasion Zimmern 13:00 Breadwinners Special:¬†the Pros Weigh In 06:00 La Clippers Dance Squad 12:15 Duck Dynasty 03:00 Booze Traveler 13:24 Sanjay And Craig 19:25 Impractical Jokers 00:00 Henry Hugglemonster 06:55 E! News 12:40 Counting Cars 04:00 Dinosaurs: Mysteries At The 13:48 Nicky, Ricky, Dicky & Dawn 19:50 Friends 00:15 Calimero 07:10 Hollywood Medium With 13:05 Counting Cars Museum 14:12 School Of Rock 20:12 Friends 00:30 Art Attack Tyler Henry 13:30 Time Team 05:00 Most Terrifying Places In 14:36 100 Things To Do Before High 20:35 Real Husbands Of Hollywood 00:55 Henry Hugglemonster 08:10 E! News: Daily Pop 14:20 Swamp People 01:30 Vickie And The Treasure Of America 21:00 The Daily Show With Trevor 15:10 Alone School 01:05 Loopdidoo 10:10 WAGs Miami 15:00 Hunter Street Gods 05:30 Most Terrifying Places In Noah 01:20 Henry Hugglemonster 11:05 WAGs Miami 16:00 Time Team 03:15 Memory Loss America 21:30 Detroiters 16:50 Swamp People 15:24 Breadwinners 26 Established 1961 Stars Wednesday, October 18, 2017

CROSSWORD 1738 STAR TRACK

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

You are eager to share good some good news. Achievement, ambition This is an excellent time to concentrate on project planning, education, and authority are things that take on greater importance. Organizing and administering publishing or the import-export business. Others may seek your expertise. You seek the people and projects will become central to your lifestyle. Career choices and the obvi- time to plan some sort of vacation during the holidays. You enjoy snow sports and might ous path that is opening up for you now may grate against your own sense of freedom; consider this time of year, your time. Sometimes the planning is just as much fun as the there is something to be learned here and listening to that small voice inside your head vacation itself. A feeling of being at peace and stable on the emotional level comes to may be the best path to walk. Some middle road could be found if you search a little your attention and you tend to become more relaxed as vacation time is getting close. more. You make a lot of money for other people through your advice and through your This may only mean that you will take a few ski trips over the long weekends this winter. accounting abilities. You could take some of your own advice and turn some of that You are moved to appreciate and discover new and admirable things about someone paperwork into good hard cash. Enjoy a romantic dinner. you love—perhaps a parent, perhaps a long-time friend.

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

This is a low-energy day that allows you to revise some of your plans, You know a secure opportunity when you see one and are willing to put straighten out problems and refurbish your energies. You can work to your best advan- forth the work it takes to see the results of growth and stability. With a good mind for tage at this time. Planning and setting things up to work in your favor is a positive. You business and a strong desire to become financially secure, you might enjoy working in attract money today and have good choices when it comes to investments. Any uncer- the world of finance. Financial speculation can be risky, but offers big rewards. Big tainty concerning relationships can become better understood. This may mean that a changes are present where your creative processes are concerned—as if you are tearing family member needs more control over his or her own life and you could be more things down to rebuild them anew. You are intense—perhaps driven. Romantic relation- encouraging. Matters of freedom are discussions for this evening: freedom of an indi- ships have a fated, charismatic element about them now. Someone you love, or are infat- vidual and the responsibility it entails. Positive results are possible when it comes to dis- uated with, is changing in fundamental ways. A visitor in your home may compliment you cussions with just the facts. You make a positive difference in many people’s lives. on your tastes. Clothing sales or design interests you now.

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

Your reputation can grow due to your expertise and knowledge. Think You like organization and practicality and you want to get things accom- about expanding your horizons and opening up to possibilities that you plished. There are motivating energies to feel better, to gain more energy have never considered before. Your timing may not be right when it comes to express- and to generally improve regarding work issues and the physical body. Health goals are ACROSS 86. Howler monkeys. ing yourself; meditate. Health and work goals take on greater importance for you now. It important and you may look into optional avenues to better health; it is good to have a 1. Kidney disease characterized by enlarged 87. A flat wing-shaped process or winglike may be better to hold off, if at all possible, on decisions concerning career or practical choice. Do an inventory, seek advice and enjoy busying yourself with new ideas for all of kidneys containing many cysts. part of an organism. advice to others. You may find this a beneficial time for working, research, music, cre- the above. There could be positive changes affecting your sense of security, self-confi- 4. Of or relating to or characteristic of the ative writing or low-key communication with those around you—especially with the dence and family. You may find yourself with home improvement projects this winter— working through the rough edges and getting down to lasting values. You will find a DOWN very young. Lighthearted entertainment can be appreciated this evening. Perhaps you African Republic of the Sudan or its peo- deep appreciation from all around you as you tend to family and home. ple. 1. A sudden numbing dread. are surrounded by others whose ideals are similar to your own. 12. Support resembling the rib of an animal. 2. Hinge joint in the human leg connecting 15. (Irish) Mother of the ancient Irish gods. the tibia and fibula with the femur and pro- 16. Genus of perennial rhizomatous herb of tected in front by the patella. Cancer (June 21-July 22) Capricorn (December 22-January 19) southern and southeastern United States. 3. (Irish) Mother of the Tuatha De Danann. 17. An agency of the United Nations affili- 4. Type genus of the Sulidae. This may be a challenging day. You can, however, use your skills to solve In-depth discussions and probing conversations find you at your mental ated with the World Bank. 5. Radiation lying in the ultraviolet range. problems. Sorting things out and getting things and people organized best. Your analytical abilities are at a high point. Statistics are a big part of 18. United States tennis player (born in 6. Formerly a gold coin of various European keep you busy most of this morning. There is a lot of mental energy churning around all your workday. Ideals and a sense of belonging to something bigger than the merely per- Czechoslovakia) who won several singles countries. day and it may be hard to put it to work—perhaps list making will help. Circumstances sonal become a greater focus this afternoon. You enjoy friendships and taking part in championships. may prove difficult regarding communication, writing, ideas, etc. Things can get tight group activities that center on optimistic goals. Meeting yourself in another person is the 7. A silvery ductile metallic element found and you may find it hard to think or study during this time. Walk away from the work at 19. A sulfonamide (trade name Gantanol) keynote of a new cycle that begins for you now. Relationships—romantic, business, primarily in bauxite. hand by taking your breaks—move, climb stairs, view the sky, etc. You are successful in social—are the arena where this drama could be played. In coming to know the other used to treat infections (especially infec- 8. Small genus of Asian evergreen trees becoming more practical and conscientious. You tend to personal matters later today person, forging ties that bind two people, you come to a better understanding of your- tions of the urinary tract). having columnar crowns and distinguished and may involve yourself in a little research to be helpful for a family member. self. It’s easy in theory, but it’s only in practice that it comes to mean anything real. 21. A unit of length of thread or yarn. by leaves lacking a midrib. 22. Lower in esteem. 9. A period marked by distinctive character 25. A flock of geese. or reckoned from a fixed point or event. Leo (July 23-August 22) Aquarius (January 20- February 18) 27. Small ornamental ladies' bag for small 10. A surface burn. articles. 11. Animal food for browsing or grazing. There could be a few challenges today as circumstances may block you This is a great time to be with others and to work together. You may be 28. Oval reproductive body of a fowl (espe- 12. Gymnastic apparatus consisting of a or bring you to a standstill. It may be easy to work at cross-purposes to sought after as just the person for a particular job. Your management abilities are in high cially a hen) used as food. pair of heavy metal circles (usually covered your own interests. This is a good time to step back and reevaluate your goals. Taking focus. You could be most persuasive with others at this time. You feel inspired and this is an excellent time to follow your creative muse. Look for ways to eliminate unnecessary 29. The highest level or degree attainable. with leather) suspended by ropes. care of the necessary underpinnings of life—health, work and such—is important. 32. (British) A waterproof raincoat made of Sorting things out and getting them organized keeps you busy. This afternoon you may or nonproductive situations from your life. Take a well-defined position in ethical mat- 13. A material effigy that is worshipped as a ters. Others value you for your ability to make practical decisions concerning group rubberized fabric. god. find yourself invited to join a competitive group. This could be in performing for others or in some sports activity. The performing would be easy and since high school you issues. This evening is a good time for surrounding yourself with friends and young peo- 34. A trivalent metallic element of the rare 14. A large bundle bound for storage or ple and for having a good time. You enjoy support from loved ones. Several of you may earth group. have wanted to act in a play or to take a class. As far as the sports, you are good at transport. whatever you set your mind to achieve. Give this opportunity some positive thought. plan the next garage sale and do a little art work to advertise for the occasion. 37. A thin wedge of material (wood or metal 20. (informal British usage) Aggravation or or stone) for driving into crevices. aggression. 38. A federal agency established to regulate 23. Cattle that are reared for their meat. Virgo (August 23-September 22) Pisces (February 19-March 20) the release of new foods and health-related 24. Wood of a sumac. products. 26. Area around the altar of a church for the Being in touch with ideas and people on a large scale is something you Your intelligence is the key ingredient to instigating a change in the work- 40. The blood group whose red cells carry clergy and choir. place. You are able to draw or list examples that will encourage employees both the A and B antigens. enjoy diving into today. You may figure out resolutions to opposing views and you will 30. A Bantu language spoken by the Chaga certainly encourage better relations between people. You may have some real insight or customers to move the merchandise right off the shelf. Business is profitable and is 42. Evergreen trees and shrubs having oily people in northern Tanzania. into world peace as well. Keep a log of your ideas and send them to your state repre- showing no signs of slowing down. It could be a few new inventions have hit the market- one-seeded fruits. 31. Tropical Asian starlings. sentative—really! There is a greater than usual interest in social connections now. A place. If you need a loan, this is a good time to apply for a loan or begin a project. Take 44. The capital and largest city of Yemen. 33. A clique that seeks power usually cycle of romance and family is present today, emphasizing a need for security and a the time to read all contracts and let things develop slowly. Material things and the whole 46. A radioactive element of the actinide through intrigue. sense of roots. You take a survey among family members and friends to discover who concept of value take on an appeal. Financial security and enjoying the finer things in life, appreciating and creating things others long to have assume a high priority. You and series. 35. Rupture in smooth muscle tissue might be available for the big turkey day next month. There is also an interest in broad- your loved one may enjoy attending a social function this evening. 47. The cry made by sheep. through which a bodily structure protrudes. ening your intellectual and spiritual horizons. Further education may be possible. 49. A cgs unit of work or energy. 36. Capital and largest city of Iraq. 50. Title for a civil or military leader (espe- 39. Fallow deer. cially in Turkey). 41. A soft silvery metallic element of the Wordsearch Puzzle Yesterday’s Solution 51. Rate of revolution of a motor. alkali earth group. 54. Lacking either stimulating or irritating 43. British artist and writer of nonsense characteristics. verse (1812-1888). 56. Shrubby tree widely distributed along 45. Wild sheep of semidesert regions in tropical shores. central Asia. 58. A genus of herbs of the family 48. A promontory in northern Morocco Cruciferae. opposite the Rock of Gibraltar. 60. A compartment in front of a motor 52. Of or related to puberty. vehicle where driver sits. 53. 1 species. 62. American prizefighter who won the 55. (Scotland) A landowner. world heavyweight championship three 57. Harsh or corrosive in tone. times (born in 1942). 59. A white soft metallic element that tar- 63. A public promotion of some product or nishes readily. service. 61. The capital of Lesotho. 64. Open to change. 65. A city in southern Turkey on the Seyhan 67. Someone who engages in arbitrage River. (who purchases securities in one market for 66. Having the head uncovered. immediate resale in another in the hope of profiting from the price differential). 68. A port city in northwestern France (in 69. A colorless and odorless inert gas. Brittany). 70. (Babylonian) God of storms and wind. 72. (prefix) Outside or outer. 71. Undergo resorption. 73. A native or inhabitant of Great Britain. 74. A Chadic language spoken south of 75. Type genus of the Alcidae comprising Lake Chad. solely the razorbill. 78. A room or establishment where alco- 76. Any of numerous local fertility and holic drinks are served over a counter. nature deities worshipped by ancient 81. The act of slowing down or falling Semitic peoples. behind. 77. A city in northern India. 82. Used of a single unit or thing. 79. A federal agency established to coordi- 83. One related on the father's side. nate programs aimed at reducing pollution 84. 4-wheeled motor vehicle. and protecting the environment. 85. A coenzyme derived from the B vitamin 80. A loose sleeveless outer garment made nicotinic acid. from aba cloth.

Yesterday’s Solution

Daily SuDoku Yesterday’s Solution Established 1961

ClassifiedsWednesday, October 18, 2017

AIRLINES

American Airlines 22087425 22087426 Kuwait Airways 171 Jazeera Airways 177 Jet Airways 22924455 FlyDubai 22414400 Qatar Airways 22423888 KLM 22425747 Air Slovakia 22434940 Olympic Airways 22420002/9 Royal Jordanian 22418064/5/6 Reservation 22433388 British Airways 22425635 Air France 22430224 Emirates 22921555 CHANGE OF NAME Air India 22438184 Sri Lanka Airlines 22424444 The public is hereby noti- Egypt Air 22421578 fied that Bayer Tangib Malecdan has filed with the Swiss Air 22421516 Embassy of the Republic of Saudia 22426306 the Philippines, State of Middle East Airlines 22423073 Kuwait, a Migrant Petition for Change of first name of Lufthansa 22422493 his son, from Liam PIA 22421044 Malecdan Tangib to Liam in Alitalia 22414427 the report of birth filed with Balkan Airlines 22416474 the embassy on 15 October 2017 under Registry Bangladesh Airlines 22452977/8 Number KT-ROB-063-2017. Czech Airlines 22417901/ Any person having knowl- 2433141 edge and/or claiming inter- 112 est or may be adversely Indian Airlines 22456700 affected by said petition, Oman Air 22958787 file a written opposition Automated Turkish Airlines 22453820/1 with the Philippine enquiry about the Aeroflot 22404838/9 Embassy within ten (10) working days. (C 5349) Civil ID card is 16-10-2017 1889988

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

Arrival Flights on Wednesday 18/10/2017 KAC 672 Dubai 13:55 Departure Flights on Wednesday 18/10/2017 IAW 158 Al Najaf 13:00 Airlines Flt Route Time QTR 1078 Doha 14:10 Airlines Flt Route Time JZR 786 Riyadh 13:10 THY 772 Istanbul 00:10 KAC 364 Colombo 14:15 AIC 988 Hyderabad/Chennai 00:05 JZR 176 Dubai 13:10 JZR 553 Alexandria 00:15 SVA 500 Jeddah 14:15 JAI 573 Mumbai 00:30 THY 767 Istanbul 13:45 KAC 786 Jeddah 00:30 GFA 221 Bahrain 14:15 MSR 2615 Cairo 00:30 FEG 932 Alexandria 13:55 JZR 267 Beirut 00:35 KAC 618 Doha 14:20 MSC 406 Sohag 00:30 MSR 611 Cairo 14:00 KAC 102 London 00:55 FDB 059 Dubai 14:20 FDB 072 Dubai 00:30 KIS 7137 Mashhad 14:00 BRZ 211 TBS 01:00 JZR 903 GYD 14:25 WAN 341 Sohag 01:30 UAE 872 Dubai 14:15 DLH 635 Doha 01:00 KAC 540 Sharm el-Sheikh 14:35 THY 773 Istanbul 01:40 CLX 792 Hanoi 14:30 JZR 539 Cairo 01:20 IRC 6521 Lamerd 14:40 KAC 363 Colombo 01:55 GFA 222 Bahrain 15:00 MSR 618 Alexandria 01:35 KAC 788 Jeddah 14:55 DLH 635 Frankfurt 02:00 KAC 673 Dubai 15:00 UAE 853 Dubai 01:40 KAC 304 Mumbai 14:55 MSR 619 Alexandria 02:35 FDB 060 Dubai 15:05 RJA 642 Amman 01:45 KAC 692 Muscat 14:55 THY 765 Istanbul 02:50 QTR 1079 Doha 15:15 THY 1464 Istanbul 01:50 KNE 529 Jeddah 14:55 KKK 6505 Istanbul 02:55 IRC 6512 ABD 15:30 KKK 6506 Istanbul 01:55 ETD 303 Abu Dhabi 15:05 ETH 621 Addis Ababa 03:05 KAC 563 Amman 15:40 KLM 446 Bahrain 02:05 KAC 562 Amman 15:10 PGT 831 Istanbul 03:10 SVA 501 Jeddah 15:45 PGT 830 Istanbul 02:10 OMA 645 Muscat 15:10 UAE 854 Dubai 03:30 KNE 530 Jeddah 15:55 QTR 1086 Doha 02:10 KAC 502 Beirut 15:25 KLM 446 Amsterdam 03:30 KAC 619 Doha 16:00 ETH 620 Addis Ababa 02:15 WAN 436 Al Najaf 15:25 OMA 644 Muscat 04:05 KAC 775 Riyadh 16:05 GFA 211 Bahrain 02:15 KAC 412 Bangkok 15:30 QTR 1087 Doha 04:10 OMA 646 Muscat 16:10 KAC 418 Manila 02:50 ABY 127 Sharjah 15:35 ETD 306 Abu Dhabi 04:10 ABY 128 Sharjah 16:15 OMA 643 Muscat 03:05 UAE 857 Dubai 15:45 MSR 613 Cairo 04:15 ETD 304 Abu Dhabi 16:20 ETD 305 Abu Dhabi 03:10 SAW 705 Damascus 15:50 KAC 417 Manila 04:20 KAC 615 Bahrain 16:30 KAC 382 Delhi 03:15 SVA 504 Madinah 16:00 JZR 560 Sohag 04:45 SAW 706 Damascus 16:50 MSR 612 Cairo 03:15 RJA 640 Amman 16:00 RBG 550 Alexandria 05:00 RJA 641 Amman 16:55 FDB 069 Dubai 03:15 QTR 1072 Doha 16:15 KAC 103 London 05:00 SVA 505 Madinah 16:55 QTR 1076 Doha 03:45 FDB 051 Dubai 16:15 QTR 1077 Doha 05:30 FDB 052 Dubai 17:05 KAC 544 Cairo 03:50 JZR 535 Cairo 16:20 KAC 303 Mumbai 05:50 KAC 503 Beirut 17:15 KAC 796 Madinah 03:55 KAC 118 New York 16:25 FEG 954 Asyut 05:55 JZR 266 Beirut 17:15 RBG 559 Alexandria 04:10 JZR 787 Riyadh 16:35 UAE 874 Dubai 06:15 QTR 1073 Doha 17:25 KAC 346 Ahmedabad 04:15 NIA 361 Alexandria 16:50 RJA 643 Amman 06:25 JZR 552 Alexandria 17:25 UAE 873 Dubai 04:15 KAC 542 Cairo 17:05 THY 771 Istanbul 06:25 JZR 240 Amman 17:30 KAC 358 Kochi 04:50 KAC 514 Tehran 17:10 GFA 212 Bahrain 06:50 KAC 361 Colombo 17:35 FEG 931 Alexandria 05:00 SVA 510 Riyadh 17:15 FDB 070 Dubai 07:05 UAE 858 Dubai 17:40 DHX 170 Bahrain 05:10 GFA 215 Bahrain 17:30 JZR 164 Dubai 07:15 KAC 357 Kochi 17:40 THY 770 Istanbul 05:25 JZR 777 Jeddah 17:35 KAC 171 Frankfurt 07:50 WAN 115 Bahrain 17:45 KAC 344 Chennai 05:30 JZR 177 Dubai 17:45 KAC 501 Beirut 07:50 NIA 362 Alexandria 17:50 KAC 332 Trivandrum 05:40 QTR 1080 Doha 18:10 KAC 613 Bahrain 07:55 KAC 381 Delhi 17:50 KAC 362 Colombo 05:50 JZR 483 Istanbul 18:30 BAW 156 London 08:20 KAC 283 Dhaka 18:00 BAW 157 London 06:05 MSR 620 Cairo 18:30 FDB 054 Dubai 08:30 KAC 343 Chennai 18:00 KAC 284 Dhaka 06:35 KAC 512 Mashhad 18:40 KAC 741 Dammam 08:30 SVA 511 Riyadh 18:15 KAC 206 Islamabad 06:40 UAE 875 Dubai 19:05 KAC 773 Riyadh 08:35 GFA 216 Bahrain 18:20 WAN 342 Sohag 06:40 GFA 217 Bahrain 19:05 KAC 539 Sharm el-Sheikh 08:40 JZR 184 Dubai 18:25 KAC 302 Mumbai 06:55 FDB 063 Dubai 19:10 KAC 661 Abu Dhabi 08:45 JZR 538 Cairo 18:30 KAC 156 Istanbul 07:05 ABY 123 Sharjah 19:20 BRZ 212 TBS 09:00 KAC 785 Jeddah 18:45 FDB 053 Dubai 07:50 KAC 154 Istanbul 19:30 KAC 101 London 09:00 QTR 1081 Doha 19:15 KAC 384 Delhi 08:00 KAC 616 Bahrain 19:40 JZR 902 GYD 09:00 JZR 124 Bahrain 19:20 UAE 855 Dubai 08:25 KAC 674 Dubai 19:40 KAC 117 New York 09:15 MSR 621 Cairo 19:30 ETD 301 Abu Dhabi 08:55 KAC 776 Riyadh 19:50 KAC 787 Jeddah 09:15 GFA 218 Bahrain 19:50 ABY 125 Sharjah 09:00 FDB 057 Dubai 19:50 KAC 671 Dubai 09:15 FDB 064 Dubai 19:50 QTR 1070 Doha 09:25 KAC 104 London 20:00 KAC 691 Muscat 09:30 ABY 124 Sharjah 20:00 IRA 665 Shiraz 09:25 OMA 647 Muscat 20:05 KAC 561 Amman 09:30 FDB 058 Dubai 20:30 FDB 055 Dubai 09:40 KAC 620 Doha 20:05 JZR 534 Cairo 09:30 UAE 876 Dubai 20:35 IRC 6511 ABD 09:50 DLH 634 Frankfurt 20:15 ABY 126 Sharjah 09:40 KAC 331 Trivandrum 20:35 IRM 1188 Mashhad 09:55 MEA 402 Beirut 20:15 JZR 482 Istanbul 09:40 KAC 353 Bangalore 20:55 MSC 415 Sohag 10:15 QTR 1088 Doha 20:40 UAE 856 Dubai 09:50 DLH 634 Doha 21:00 GFA 213 Bahrain 10:40 KNE 231 Riyadh 20:50 ETD 302 Abu Dhabi 10:00 KAC 1543 Cairo 21:00 MEA 404 Beirut 10:55 KAC 564 Amman 21:00 KAC 541 Cairo 10:00 OMA 648 Muscat 21:05 WAN 114 Bahrain 11:00 KAC 172 Frankfurt 21:05 KAC 617 Doha 10:15 MEA 403 Beirut 21:15 QTR 1074 Doha 11:00 ETD 307 Abu Dhabi 21:10 IRA 664 Shiraz 10:25 KNE 232 Riyadh 21:40 SYR 341 Damascus 11:00 KLM 445 Amsterdam 21:15 KAC 153 Istanbul 10:30 KAC 301 Mumbai 21:40 AXB 889 Mangalore/Bahrain 11:05 ALK 229 Colombo 21:15 QTR 1071 Doha 10:35 KAC 203 Lahore 21:45 JZR 561 Sohag 11:10 UAE 859 Dubai 21:15 FDB 056 Dubai 10:35 QTR 1089 Doha 21:50 KAC 614 Bahrain 11:15 GFA 219 Bahrain 21:50 IRC 6522 Lamerd 10:40 KAC 205 Islamabad 21:55 KAC 742 Dammam 11:45 QTR 1082 Doha 22:00 AAG 146 IQA 11:00 ETD 308 Abu Dhabi 22:00 JZR 165 Dubai 11:50 ETD 309 Abu Dhabi 22:10 IRM 1189 Mashhad 11:10 KAC 155 Istanbul 22:15 IAW 157 Al Najaf 12:00 JZR 125 Bahrain 22:15 MSC 416 Sohag 11:15 ALK 230 Colombo 22:20 KAC 774 Riyadh 12:45 AIC 975 Chennai/Goa 22:25 GFA 214 Bahrain 11:35 KLM 445 Bahrain 22:25 UAE 871 Dubai 12:45 BBC 043 Dhaka 22:30 MEA 405 Beirut 11:55 UAE 860 Dubai 22:35 THY 766 Istanbul 12:50 JZR 241 Amman 22:55 SYR 342 Latakia 12:00 KAC 383 Delhi 22:35 FEG 953 Asyut 12:55 RBG 551 Alexandria 23:00 JZR 776 Jeddah 12:00 GFA 220 Bahrain 22:50 KIS 7136 Mashhad 13:00 JZR 185 Dubai 23:00 AXB 890 Mangalore 12:05 ETD 310 Abu Dhabi 23:00 WAN 954 GYD 13:00 RBG 555 Alexandria 23:25 QTR 1075 Doha 12:10 JZR 528 Asyut 23:05 MSR 610 Cairo 13:00 MSR 2614 Cairo 23:30 VIZ 205 IQA 12:30 KAC 783 Jeddah 23:10 KAC 662 Abu Dhabi 13:15 FDB 071 Dubai 23:35 KAC 511 Mashhad 12:45 QTR 1083 Doha 23:20 CLX 792 Luxembourg 13:15 PIA 239 Sialkot 23:40 KAC 513 Tehran 12:45 RBG 552 Alexandria 23:40 28 Established 1961 Wednesday, October 18, 2017 Lifestyle Gossip Witherspoon was sexually assaulted by director at 16

The actress, now 41, has spoken out about the experiences of some women me when I was 16 years old and anger at the agents and the producers who in Hollywood following the accusations of sexual harassment and assault made me feel that silence was a condition of my employment.” The ‘Big Little made against film producer Harvey Weistein and insists there are “ugly Lies’ star insists it wasn’t an “isolated incident” but she now feels much “less truths” that have to be confronted. Reese decided to speak out about what alone” after hearing accounts of similar behaviour from her peers. She said: happened to her when she was just a teenager at the Elle Women in “I have just spoken to so many actresses and writers, particularly women, Hollywood event in Beverley Hills on Monday night and admitted that the who have had similar experiences and many of them have bravely gone pub- incident still haunts her now. Addressing the audience, the Oscar winner lic with their stories. That truth is very encouraging to me and everyone out bravely said: “I have my own experiences that have come back to me very there in the world because you can only heal by telling the truth.” vividly and I find it really hard to sleep, hard to think, hard to communicate a lot of the feelings that I’ve been having about anxiety, honest, the guilt for not speaking up earlier ... [I feel] true disgust at the director who assaulted Harry Judd Sinitta to become a smoked full-time teacher to kids

The ‘So Macho’ singer has Magdalena, 12, and Zac, 11, with them happily chatting away in French to others. Their confi- strong skunk her ex-husband Andy Willner, and while she thinks her latest dence is inspiring.” It doesn’t look as though Sinitta will have plan is “crazy”, the 53-year-old star is looking forward to to teach her kids much about healthy eating as they are keeping her children “happy” at home. She is quoted by the already big fans of eating plenty of vegetables. She recently Daily Star newspaper as saying: “I’ve made a crazy decision said: “It’s important they understand that healthy eating in school to start home-schooling my two children. I can keep them doesn’t mean boring food. My children love dips and happy and home and raise them right.” In August, Sinitta cruditÈs; a wonderful way to fill them up with a variety of admitted “most of the time” she cannot help her kids with raw vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, courgettes, carrots, The 31-year-old singer - who is the drummer in the band their homework because it is in French as they attend a radish and celery.” The ‘Toy Boy’ singer - who previously McFly alongside Tom Fletcher, Dougie Poynter and Danny French school. When asked if she helps with the additional dated Brad Pitt - also admitted she has had “lots of fun” Jones - experimented with marijuana when he was at board- work, she replied: “Sometimes - though most of the time I being a parent. ing school and he continued to use the drug into his late can’t, as it’s all in French! “I get really moved when I see teens and 20s. Harry always thought weed was relatively harmless but he believes his drug use contributed to his bouts of anxiety. Speaking about his anxiety struggles on ITV show ‘This Morning’ yesterday, the ‘All About You’ hit- maker said: “I had a very happy childhood, I can’t for one minute complain. Very, very happy. I joined the band and when I was 17 and I was a confident guy, and everything was great. But it was when I was about 19 when things start- checking whether they had smoked before. And I remember ed to turn for me and I did start to suffer with anxiety.” thinking I had left home, and I have left school and thinking Revealing when he first tried the drug, he said: “It wasn’t ‘I am a free man, I can do what I want.’ No one was looking actually in school, it was actually in the school holidays. But over me. I very quickly felt dependent on skunk. And I that’s the thing with marijuana you’ve got different forms of remember growing up being told ‘You can’t get hooked on marijuana, and I stumbled across the stronger sort.” And weed’. But within a month or so, that was it, that was me Harry admits his cannabis use increased when he was living every night.” with the rest of McFly and he had “no one” around to chal- lenge his actions. He said: “Then I joined the band and I remember the first time in the band house I was tentatively Gomez wants sister to Hough makes up her own grow up being a leader The ‘Bad Liar’ hitmaker gave her four-year-old the pop star underwent a kidney transplant after sibling Gracie a pep talk beside the sea on her organs started shutting down as a result of workout Monday as she encouraged her to be “fearless” her battle with Lupus. She was rushed into hospi- and use her voice to make a difference when she tal in May and placed on a kidney transplant list grows up because the “truth” will inspire others. after the autoimmune disease mistakenly attacked routines Taking to her Instagram account, the 25-year-old her kidneys, but she managed to have the surgery singer uploaded a short black-and-white video of a few weeks later after she found a willing donor her talking to Gracie as the youngster said: “I’m in her friend Francia Raisa. The ‘Hands To Myself’ not scared.” To which Selena replied: “I know hitmaker first revealed she’d been diagnosed with because you’re fearless, right? You’re not scared Lupus in 2015 and, one year later, took time out of anything, right?,” before giving her youngster from her pop career to deal with “anxiety, panic sister an encouraging high five. She accompanied attacks and depression” that the life-threatening the sweet clip with the caption: “I will forever let illness had also caused. As well as Gracie, Selena my sister know she is strong, bold and beautiful. also has three-year-old sister Tori, who will no She will be raised to know her voice matters. She doubt receive the same pep talk when she’s is going to understand the importance behind slightly older and can understand her words of being a leader and inspire others by her truth.” wisdom. Selena’s inspiring words come just months after

dency at the casino after his 243-show “The Lawrence has been Red Piano” from 2004 to 2009. John Elton John returned to the Vegas residency last week after canceling dates earlier this year due to a bacterial infection he contracted while ‘degraded’ by to end Vegas touring South America. There were no indi- cations of lingering health concerns for the 70-year-old, who since the infection has Hollywood executives gone on to tour Europe and Australia. With residency a string of chart-topping hits reaching back 40 years, the “Rocket Man” remains one of The 27-year-old actress has opened up er!’ star said: “When I was much younger Elton John, one of the major musical draws the highest-grossing musicians in the world about the shocking lows she was subjected and starting out, I was told by producers of to Las Vegas, will end his residency at both on the live circuit and in record sales, to when beginning her career, including a film to lose 15 pounds in two Caesar’s Palace next year, the casino with a new box-set due for release next forced to strip and stand next to “much, weeks.”During this time a female producer announced Monday. The British pop legend month. Las Vegas residencies-often with much thinner” other women in an attempt had me do a nude line-up with about five will on May 19 close “The Million Dollar ornate stage set-ups as there is no need to for her to be shamed into losing weight. women who were much, much, thinner than Piano,” his show since 2011 at the casino’s The 29-year-old actress often attends exercises take the show on the road-are major Speaking about her career at Elle’s 2017 me. We are stood side-by-side with only Colosseum theater in which he performs his classes, such as CorePower Yoga and spin ses- income generators for veteran artists, with Women in Hollywood bash, which took tape on covering our privates. “After that hits to an elaborate visual display that sions, as well as training with fitness experts Jennifer Lopez recently extending her con- place at the Four Seasons Hotel in Los degrading and humiliating line-up, the includes dozens of video screens. Simone De La Rue and Tracy Anderson, but the certs into 2018. Angeles, California, on Monday, the ‘moth- female producer told me I should use the Announcing the close of the residency, ‘Safe Haven’ star will also call on her dance knowl- naked photos of myself as inspiration for my edge and make up her own regimes to stay fit. Caesar’s Palace said John will have per- diet.”He said he didn’t know why everyone formed 207 shows. It was his second resi- Speaking about her exercise plan to Health.com, thought I was so fat, he thought I was ‘per- the blonde-haired beauty said: “I do, but I change fectly f***able.’ I let myself be treated a it up. It’s not one specific trainer who does every- certain way because I felt I had to for my thing. I work with a trainer at Body by Simone or career.” But the ‘Passengers’ actress believes one at Tracy Anderson, or I’ll do SoulCycle or “every human” should be treated with CorePower Yoga with different trainers. I’m a “respect” they deserve and shouldn’t be dancer, so I remember different combinations, so forced to do things to please other people. I’ll sometimes take what I’ve learned in classes and She explained: “I’m still learning that I don’t make my own workout.” However, the star - who is have to smile when a man makes me uncom- married to Brooks Laich - has admitted she is not fortable. Every human being should have the always “Miss Positive perfect girl” and often has power to be treated with respect because days when she cannot be bothered to work out they’re human.” And Jennifer has admitted because she suffers with endometriosis, which is a she now has an “understanding” of the condition where cells similar to the one in a entertainment industry, but she used to find woman’s womb collect in other areas of the body. her celebrity status “overwhelming”. The ‘Dancing With The Stars’ professional Speaking previously, the ‘The Hunger explained: “Oh my gosh, totally. And that’s the Games’ star said: “Now I have an under- thing - I do try to stay as positive as possible, and standing, I have a patience with it. Also I people always comment on that, but I also work at get time off from it, I think at first it was it. It’s not that I’m, like, Miss Positive perfect girl, really overwhelming and I was like ‘Is this wake up and everything’s sunshine and rainbows. what it will be like for the rest of my life?’ Established 1961 29

Wednesday, October 18, 2017 Lifestyle Gossip George Saunders is the bookies’ favorite for Man Booker prize

American author George Saunders is the book- The panel of judges eliminated several high-pro- makers’ favorite to win the prestigious Man file books that had been widely expected to fea- Booker Prize for fiction yesterday with his novel ture among the finalists, including Zadie Smith’s Author George Saunders of the United States with his book of the afterlife, “Lincoln in the Bardo.” Six novels “Swing Time,” Colson Whitehead’s “The ‘Lincoln in the Bardo’ during a photocall for the 2017 Man are contending for the 50,000 pound ($66,000) Underground Railroad” and “The Ministry of Booker Prize for Fiction, in London. prize, including Saunders’ book set in a Utmost Happiness” by previous Booker winner Washington graveyard, where President Abraham Arundhati Roy. Lincoln visits the body of his 11-year-old son in Founded in 1969 and originally open only to 1862. Two other American authors are in the run- writers from Britain, Ireland and the ning: Paul Auster for his quadruple coming-of- Commonwealth, the Booker expanded in 2014 to age story “4321,” and Emily Fridlund for her story include all English-language authors. The first of a Midwest teenager, “History of Wolves.” American winner was Paul Beatty’s “The Sellout” The other Booker finalists are Scottish novel- last year. The change spurred fears among some ist Ali Smith’s Brexit-themed “Autumn;” British- British writers and publishers that Americans Pakistani writer Mohsin Hamid’s migration saga would come to dominate a prize whose previous “Exit West;” and “Elmet,” debut British novelist winners include Salman Rushdie, Ben Okri, Fiona Mozley’s story of a fiercely independent Margaret Atwood and Hilary Mantel. Prize family under threat. The prize, subject to intense organizers said 30 percent of the 144 books sub- speculation and a flurry of betting, usually brings mitted by publishers for consideration were the victor a huge boost in sales and profile. American, a figure slightly down from last year. The winner will receive the prize from Prince Author Mohsin Hamid of Britain and Pakistan with his book Charles’ wife Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, dur- Author Emily Fridlund of the United States with her book ‘History ‘Exit West’. ing a ceremony at London’s medieval Guildhall. of Wolves’.—AP photos

ing to live with one. Its producers brought together a team of psychologists and sociologists to help the women create a “new type of family”. Few relationships have less of a chance of survival as celebrity ones, and a new British series Romance is dead plays on the idea that some of these starry love matches may have been only for the cameras. ITV’s “Celebrity Showmance” puts highly unlikely celebrities together and challenges them to con social media users than their romance is for real. A spectator

Sing like a donkey in TV’s newest “The couple with the highest number of likes and com- sport for the ments wins,” Mouseler said. The same company has come up with another much-hyped show to test couples called “Bromans”, where a group of modern himbos are transport- ed back in time to a Roman gladiator school with their girl- TV superfan: friends. However bad marriages can be, they surely have dating shows nothing on the horror of having to spend a weekend locked in the office with your least favorite colleagues. ‘Binge racing’ Television has been playing matchmaker for decades with Couples who take part in “The Break Up” and “Divorce That is the premise of the new American series “Inhuman hit series like “The Dating Game”, “Blind Date” and “Married for the Better”-clips of which were shown on Monday-have Resources”, which is being billed as the first “corporate at First Sight”. Now it is taking couples straight to the to agree to divorce, before what is left of their relationship adventure show”, with workmates forced to bed down For a special breed of TV superfans, this isn’t divorce courts. The next big trend in dating shows is uncou- is tested to see if it is worth saving. Both shows urge the together and perform often humiliating tasks in the hope of streaming. This is a gusher. Behold the spectator pling, according to analysts at MIPCOM, the world’s top couples to embrace the single life again, sending them out building friendships and team spirit. Talent shows, however, sport known as “binge racing,” defined as plowing entertainment trade show, held every year at Cannes on the on dates and throwing continue to have a stranglehold on television schedules, with through a streaming-network series’ full season in French Riviera. Having tried to salvage something from the divorce parties for them. Mouseler calling them “the less than 24 hours after the release of those wreckage in cathartic shows like “One Night with My Ex” The test is to see “if they king of genres at the episodes. from Britain’s Channel 5 earlier this year, producers are now can forget their marriage”, moment”. Sure, any viewer may speak of bingeing on a cho- going for the nuclear option. Two new much-discussed said Virginia Mouseler, a Radical solution The new British series sen show, by which they may mean watching several French formats have a radical solution to marital discord- trends expert at The Wit, a “Change Your Tune” turns episodes in two or three sittings. That’s not this! instant divorce. media database. the “Voice” format on its Binge racing is an extreme sport, a test of eyeball to marital head by looking for con- stamina and derriere endurance, and a testament to ultimate devotion. It also confers bragging rights for Love of a good woman testants who sing like don- discord-instant those who manage to complete this marathon. In “The Break Up” keys. The winner of the Netflix, which from its start defied TV’s age-old couples must come show, which will air on ITV divorce next year, is the one whose practice of parsing out episodes week after week by, together at the end of instead, making all of them available at once, has tak- their trial separation to voice has improved the most after intensive coach- en special notice of the binge-racing trend among its watch an excruciating subscribers. “We’ve seen it increasing year after “movie of their marriage” ing. The BBC meanwhile has come up with a singa- year,” says Brian Wright, Netflix’s vice president of before deciding whether Original Series. “I equate it to wanting to be the first or not to tear up their divorce papers. Those women who long show called “All Together Now” where the singer who gets the most people to join in wins. But China’s CCTV is to see a new ‘Star Wars’ film or lining up to get the decide to go it alone could try their luck on another new latest Harry Potter book.” show, “Bi the Way”, which posits that some might have more concerned with the future of game shows rather than cosy traditions from the past. Its spectacular new format “AI been happier with another girl. The show claims that “one Where did the term come from? out of four women under 25 is bisexual” and tests the theo- Mission” pits the very best human athletes and brains against artificial intelligence. — AFP “We wanted language for that superfan who ry by pairing contestants off with people they meet in blind watched it all in one sitting,” he says, “and ‘binge chatroom sessions. racing’ was bubbling up on social media. It was an Even more radical is the new Danish show “Pregnant with organic thing.” During the same period when the a Stranger”, which liberates three single women looking for total number of memberships doubled, the number of a man to have a baby with from the messy business of hav- same-day binge racers went from 200,000 in 2013 to more than 5 million so far this year. While most binge racers only take the challenge has risen to become a star of the international classical siasm. A very rare example of a blind pianist at such a high occasionally - when a certain special series demands music scene, playing in more than 160 concerts around the level, Tsujii said he is inspired by the sensations provided by a single big gulp - one US viewer has binge-raced world in locations such as London’s Royal Albert Hall and nature and other art forms. “From a very young age, my Japan’s blind 36 times so far this year, Netflix says. According to Carnegie Hall in New York. He has played with the Saint- mother gave me experiences outside of music. She would Netflix numbers-crunchers, West Virginia can boast Petersburg Mariinsky Orchestra, the London Philharmonic take me to museums and describe the drawings or paintings the nation’s highest number of binge racers, as com- and will be giving his first major recital in France later this she liked. She would take me to a firework display and puted by the percentage of binge racers among the piano maestro month. An elegy he wrote for the victims of the 2011 earth- describe the colours,” he said. state’s total Netflix subscribers. Right behind are quake and tsunami in Japan got 13 million views on Tsujii’s main musical influence is the “delicate, elegant, Michigan, Maryland, Delaware and Indiana. (Sorry, YouTube. romantic” Chopin, whose patriotism he admires. “He had Alaska and Hawaii - you come in last.) Born in Tokyo, Tsujii’s love of music started at the age of extremely strong feelings for his country, Poland,” said Tsujii, plays it by ear eight months, when his mother played him a CD by Polish adding that he was also drawn to Beethoven, Debussy and composer Chopin. “I wiggled my legs in time to the music,” Ravel. A joint-winner of the prestigious Van Cliburn gold he said. He began tinkling on a toy piano at the age of two medal, Tsujii has refused to let his disability get the better of Blind since birth, virtuoso Japanese pianist Nobuyuki Tsujii and real music lessons started at four. He learned to read him. While others musicians carefully watch every move of puts his global success down to a wide range of experiences sheet music via braille but many compositions were not the conductor, Tsujii says he listens to the orchestra leader’s outside music-and listening to how the conductor breathes. accessible via this method so he learned to play by ear, from breathing to follow the rhythm. — AFP “I love sport, I love swimming, skiing,” the 29-year-old memory. maestro told AFP in an interview. “The more I experience, “It is good at the beginning to be faithful and precise but the more positive things it brings me as a musician.” afterwards I tried to interpret (the music) and that is very Despite his blindness, Tsujii-or “Nobu” as he is known- important, difficult and deep,” he said with infectious enthu-

Lauren Graham, left, and Alexis Bledel in a scene from, “Gilmore Girls: A Year In The Life,” currently streaming on Netflix. — AP

Globally, the United States is the binge-racing runner-up to world champ Canada, with Denmark, Finland and Norway rounding out the International Top Five. (Similarly, these figures are computed by the percentage of binge racers among each country’s number of customers.) Wright hastens to say no judgments are tied to Netflix’s data. The numbers “speak to a certain level of excite- ment around certain titles, and they also speak to consumer control - people can design their own viewing experience,” he says. “Binge racing reflects a certain kind of fervor and love. But someone who takes his time to watch the episodes isn’t any less of a fan.” So what are the Netflix program rankings for binge racing nationally? “Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life” holds the top spot, followed by “Fuller House,” ‘’The Ranch,” ‘’Marvel’s The Defenders,” ‘’The Seven Deadly Sins,” ‘’Trailer Park Boys,” ‘’Santa Clarita Diet,” ‘’F is for Family,” ‘’Orange is the New Black” and “Stranger Things.” (Netflix notes that this rank- ing has no relation to overall viewership, which it doesn’t divulge.)—AP Japanese blind pianist Nobuyuki Tsujii answers questions dur- ing an interview at a studio in Tokyo. Nobuyuki Tsujii plays the piano. — AFP photos 30 Established 1961 Wednesday, October 18, 2017 Lifestyle Features Art ‘detectives’ probe what lies beneath a Fragonard For decades, she was thought to have started out as a man. conservation studio as colleagues around him worked on But a sketch uncovered at an obscure Parisian auction in other gems. 2012 triggered groundbreaking research that revealed the original painting beneath Jean-Honore Fragonard’s “Young Shrouded in mystery Girl Reading” to be a woman gazing outward. “The drawing The fantasy figures portray members of Fragonard’s pointed out this likely inaccuracy,” said Michael Swicklik, social circle dressed in extravagant masquerade style and senior conservator at the National Gallery of Art in looking out in engaging, theatrical poses. Fragonard, known Washington, adjusting his magnifying glasses to examine the for highly decorative, veiled eroticism in works like “The luminous 250-year-old portrait of a girl in a bright lemon Swing,” highlighted more minute details here in the women dress absorbed in her book. than the men, using the back of his paintbrush to evoke col- Swicklik was part of a lar creases. trio of experts who used The girl’s profile view techniques akin to those had relegated her to the This file photo taken on September 28, 2017 shows ‘Young Girl Reading’ by Jean-Honore Fragonard NASA deployed on its margins of the series, on an easel at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, DC. — AFP photos Mars rovers to dispel any Groundbreaking despite the similar dress, doubt the work belonged light source and frenetic along with three different types of scientific imaging, with- on which the artist had sketched out 18 distinct thumbnail- to a boldly experimental research brushstrokes applied “alla out ever touching the work. “You start off this research not sized portraits that corresponded to paintings associated series by a young prima” (wet on wet paint) knowing what you’re looking for,” said Delaney as he with the fantasy figures. In addition to unlocking the mys- Fragonard, just coming into revealed original with virtuosic ease and demonstrated a scan of the canvas mounted on a mobile tery of “Young Girl Reading,” the sketches also dispelled his own two decades agility. But the sketched easel at the museum’s chemical imaging lab. some long-held assumptions. before the French painting beneath vignette matching the por- “But you collect many different kinds of information-the Beneath all but the girl’s underlying composition, Revolution. There is no trait showed the subject canvas weave, the pigment types, the style of the painting, Fragonard made inscriptions that for the first time associat- significant record from the facing the viewer. “It was and then you start to see strange things.” Delaney and co- ed the portraits with names, though it is still unclear whether period of the artist’s leg- not a painting about which researchers developed a pair of custom-built tools: a high they identify patrons or the sitters themselves. The annota- endary “Fantasy Figures,” we imagined making fur- sensitivity near infrared hyper spectral imaging camera and tions named previously unidentified portraits for some, created around 1769, which Paris Louvre senior curator ther discoveries,” said Yuriko Jackall, the museum’s 18th cen- an x-ray fluorescence (XRF) imaging sensor. They also used revealed mistaken identities for others and left out paintings Guillaume Faroult described to AFP as “one of the absolute tury French painting expert who enlisted the help of techniques known as diffuse reflectance imaging spec- long considered part of the series. masterpieces in the history of painting.” Swicklik and senior imaging scientist John Delaney. troscopy (RIS) and reflectance transformation imaging What had been celebrated as an iconic image of Even less was known about “Young Girl Reading,” whose Fragonard “seems to have made one composition and left (RTI), along with high-resolution color photography. Enlightenment philosopher Denis Diderot-a ruthless art crit- profile view had relegated her to the periphery of the series. it alone for a while, and then come back to it several months Combined with four sets of carefully calibrated lights, the ic-is now associated instead with writer Ange Gabriel When the painting was restored in 1985, experts erroneous- or maybe a few years later,” explained Jackall. “Why did technologies produced more than 750 highly detailed Meusnier de Querlon. These and other related findings raise ly concluded a man lay beneath based on x-ray imaging. But Fragonard make a change like this? Was this because the images of the painting in very narrow wavelength ranges more questions than they answer. Four of the 18 works today, researchers have many more tools at their disposal, model rejected the painting and so the painting remained that helped create a realistic simulation of the original com- sketched out are still unknown. Yet more discoveries possi- and the National Gallery’s team was able to confirm suspi- unsold? Was it that the initial painting was almost like a fig- position. During XRF imaging spectroscopy, mercury analy- bly await after Jackall curated the first known exhibition cions aroused by the newly discovered sketch of the series. ure study? We are not totally sure.” sis clearly revealed the outlined “ghost” of the underlying entirely devoted to the fantasy figures, running until “That we could actually then re-examine the painting woman, along with her plumed headdress adorned with December 3 at the National Gallery. — AFP through these new techniques and prove that it was inaccu- Going in blind pearls. rate and how inaccurate it was, and actually simulate what it Working like a team of detectives, Delaney, Jackall and looked like, was very exciting for a conservator,” Swicklik Swicklik studied a tiny cross-section taken from the painting The sketch is key said, gesturing at the unframed painting in the museum’s in the 1980s-the traditional way of observing paint layers- At the heart of the research was a faded sheet of paper

National Gallery of Art senior conservator of paintings Michael Swicklik National Gallery of Art senior imaging scientist John K Delaney showing National Gallery of Art assistant curator Yuriko Jackall next to an x-radi- speaks during an interview with AFP. Images of ‘Young Girl Reading’ by Jean-Honore Fragonard. ograph of ‘Young Girl Reading’. Plans for London’s historic VidCon returning to Amsterdam India Club cook up storm Plans to renovate a historic and beloved Indian restaurant in ish and extend the building. It currently houses a bakery and central London are causing a stir, pitting the developers convenience store on the ground floor and the India Club Cultural ‘cleansing’ of London to aid budding against high profile defenders, including intellectuals, Anglo- and Hotel Strand Continental on the upper levels. Loyal longtime customers have been voicing their sup- Indian businessmen and lawmakers from both countries. The port. A petition launched by the club had garnered over India Club, a restaurant and bar on the Strand near London’s Heritage status? 14,000 signatures by Monday. “It means the world to gener- video stars West End, is trying to use its storied history to block pro- Marker, who has run the club and hotel for the last 20 ations of Indians,” said Kalyan Thapa, a patron since the posals by owners Marston Properties to turn the seven years, said he was “quite surprised” to learn of the plans in 1960s, as he ate with friends there on Monday. “You can’t Move over Johnny Depp or Angelina Jolie. Today’s storey building into an upmarket boutique hotel. an email from the company. With their seven-year lease set knock it down and erase history.” kids no longer want to be Hollywood movie stars. “This is a very historic place, we haven’t changed any- to expire in 2019, he fears it will mean the end of the club. High profile fans including sculptor Anish Kapoor, writer Instead the world of online video beckons. And aiming thing,” Yadgar Marker, the club’s current director, told AFP The club has applied for the building to receive protected Will Self and Indian lawmaker Shashi Tharoor, have also to help young vloggers and YouTubers to capitalise on during a recent lunchtime dosa-an Indian pancake-and vari- status from Historic England, which recommends which sites leapt to its defense, writing letters of support that Marker a growing market, VidCon Europe announced yester- ous curry dishes flew out the kitchen. “Even these tabletops of cultural value the British government should designate. has sent on to Westminster Council. “I think the loss of the day it will return to Amsterdam next year for the sec- are from the early ‘50s... It’s like a museum,” he said. A spokesman for the public body confirmed it had visited club would constitute another step-up in the social, ethnic ond time-for the only European edition of its hugely The club was set up in its current location by Krishna the club earlier this month, and would make a decision on and cultural ‘cleansing’ of central London’s commercial envi- popular VidCon US staged annually in Anaheim, Menon, India’s first High Commissioner to Britain, in the ear- whether to recommend listing it by January 19, 2018. Simon ronment,” Self said. “Already, smaller and more diverse busi- California. ly 1950s, and counted Jawaharlal Nehru, the country’s inau- Marshall of Marston Properties told AFP it was cooperating nesses are being lost from the West End in droves, it creates “If you’re between the ages of 10 and 20 what is gural prime minister, among its founding members, Marker with Historic England “to establish the true heritage links of an arid, aseptic environment in which every cubic foot of the number one career when asked what do you want said. It has served as a meeting place for writers, intellectu- this building.” He said the company had commissioned its space feels commoditized.” — AFP to be when you grow up? The number one thing is an als and politicians, Marker wrote earlier this month to own independent historical research into the club. “The online video star,” VidCon chief executive Jim Westminster Council, the local authority in charge of plan- extent of (the) heritage links... are not in fact particularly Louderback told AFP. In April, Amsterdam became ning decisions. Marston Properties submitted its application clear,” he added. Marshall stressed no final decision had VidCon’s first foray out of the United States. Every on September 8 to Westminster Council to partially demol- been made to redevelop building. year tens of thousands flock to the annual get-togeth- er in California, which since its launch eight years ago has become a hot venue for those in the driving seat of an online revolution. The second edition of VidCon Europe will be held in the Dutch capital from March 22-24, 2018, and organizers are confident they will attract more than the 3,000-plus fans who flocked to the city this April. But the focus is changing with less emphasis this time on helping fans to meet their online crushes. “VidCon Europe 2017 will be more of a learning, educational and inspirational event,” said Louderback. The aim will be to help those already online or tar- geting a career on YouTube to “develop their skills, build bigger audiences, their communities and make better videos. In the movie industry you have all these gatekeepers that keep you from being able to become a movie star,” said Louderback. “With online video everybody can create a video and post it. They’re not all going to be good. But you don’t have to be in one of these centers of movie-making to be able to rise to the top, and find your audience.” During the three-day event more than 1,000 emerging and established vloggers will conduct workshops on how to cash in online suc- cess, work with brands and produce high-quality content. — AFP A staff member exits the kitchen as people eat lunch inside the India Club People eat lunch inside the India Club restaurant. restaurant in London. — AFP photos Established 1961 31

Wednesday, October 18, 2017 Lifestyle Features

Amazon Fashion Week Tokyo

Models display the creations of HEAVEN PLEASE+ from Hong Kong, designed by Yi Chan and Lary Cheung, as part of the Amazon Fashion Week Tokyo 2018 spring/summer collection in Tokyo. — AFP

Models display the creations of MEIKING NG from Hong Kong, designed by Meiking Ng. Models display the creations of HARRISON WONG from Hong Kong, designed by Harrison Wong. — AFP photos Lifestyle WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2017

Indian dancers take part in the Diwali Festival at Trafalgar Square in London. The Diwali Festival brings together thousands of Hindus, Sikhs and Jains with people from other communities in celebration. — AP Grim store sales cast shadow on ‘festival of lights’

This close to India’s glittering festive season, the cash register Since then, Modi has overhauled India’s tax system and at Neha Tandon’s clothes store should be working overtime as cracked down on corruption, flagship reforms many argued revelers snap up elegant sarees for Diwali celebrations and were necessary but slowed the economy. The timing could not lavish wedding parties. But the traditional spending sprees be worse for traders, who rely on consumers spending big on have not transpired this festival season, the first since a sud- clothes, jewelry and gifts to lavish on friends and family ahead den recall of India’s high-value banknotes sent shockwaves of Diwali, the biggest celebration of the year for India’s one through Asia’s third-largest billion Hindus dubbed the economy. “festival of lights”. “I’ve “Demonetisation” never seen it this bad. caused months of crippling We’ve been here 40 years cash shortages that hit Traditional and trust me, this is not nor- Indians buy lanterns and lamps from roadside stalls ahead of Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights in businesses hard and econ- mal,” Tandon said. Mumbai. omists concede it con- spending sprees tributed to dragging on Scared to spend pare up to 5,000 boxes of Indian sweets for corporate clients the massive shake up, with some sectors striking as others India’s growth, which hit a have not halted Some flashier shopping preparing gifts. This year, those orders have nosedived to just scrambled to work out what to charge under the new tax three-year low of 5.7 per- malls reported stronger 60 boxes, said owner Sriyansh Jain. regime. Economists had long argued such steps were vital if cent in the first quarter of sales over the weekend, but this season Fireworks vendors, who sell more during Diwali than any the country of 1.25 billion people is to continue creating jobs the financial year. Retailers smaller outlets say the dam- other time, are also facing a dismal year with crackers banned for its ever-growing population. say consumers remain age has been done. Praveen in Delhi to curb the capital’s horrendous air pollution. The These two policies were singled out last month when the scared of parting with their Khandelwal, the general depressing holiday sales cap off a tough year for retailers, Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development cash and blame that secretary of the traders who have been buffered in the wake of Modi’s economic downgraded India’s growth forecast for the year to 6.7 per- upheaval, and subsequent economic reforms from Prime confederation, said there was no hope of a last-minute reforms and attribute the disruption with the glum consumer cent, down 0.6 point from their June outlook. The Modi gov- Minister Narendra Modi, for their festive sales woes. “Since rebound with some marketplaces “absolutely deserted”. climate. The cancellation of more than 80 percent of India’s ernment has promised the short-term pain would bear fruit demonetisation, there has been less cash around. But even “Usually at this time, it’s impossible to move in the markets. rupee banknotes, a move designed to undercut the black mar- down the line. But such overtures offer little comfort for retail- that aside, the Modi government is so volatile people are But this year it’s certainly not like that. This is the worst Diwali ket, wiped out cash reserves and threw businesses into chaos. ers staring down the barrel of a record-bad year. “The mood afraid to spend,” said Tandon at her boutique in Delhi, where in a decade for traders,” he said. Luxury items have borne the is really down. People are more cautious about spending,” just one woman was browsing the racks of sarees less than a brunt of the austerity this season, with sales of wristwatches, Short-term pain said fashion retailer Sunit Nanda, nervously looking around week from Diwali. formal wear and jewelry plunging. Eight months later Modi followed up with the biggest tax his quiet shop in Delhi. “But these next few days are critical The Confederation of All India Traders, the body repre- But the penny pinching is also being felt in other industries overhaul in a generation — replacing more than a dozen state for our business, so I hope things pick up.” — AFP senting 60 million retailers, says pre-festival sales are down usually booming during the festive season. In a normal year and national levies with four different rates of between five 40 percent compared to last year’s $4 billion Diwali bonanza. Bengali Sweet Center, a traditional confectioner, might pre- and 28 per cent. Retailers complained they were not ready for

An Indian artist works on an idol of the Hindu Goddess Lakshmi (L) Indian shoppers throng the ancient Teen Darwaja marketplace on An Indian potter stacks earthen lamps in an oven as he makes and Kali (R) at a workshop in Hyderabad . — AFP/AP photos the last Sunday ahead of the Hindu festival ‘Diwali’ in Ahmedabad. them ahead of Diwali festival in Allahabad.